Five facts about the Palace of Versailles

With an almost 400-year history behind it, it's safe to say the Palace of Versailles boasts plenty of interesting facts and anecdotes. You'll hear a fair few of them if you decide to join a guided tour, but for now, here are five facts about the Palace of Versailles to get you started: Louis XIV rightly gets a lot of credit for the palace, but it actually began as a plush hunting lodge for his father Louis XIII The palace was last a royal residence during the French Revolution in 1789, when Louis XVI and family fled to Paris The original menagerie at Versailles formed the basis of Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes, the second oldest zoo in the world The Treaty of Versailles, the agreement which ended World War One, was signed in the palace's Hall of Mirrors Marie Antoinette built her own mini village on the estate – Petit Trianon – complete with gardens and cottages.

Where is the Palace of Versailles located?

The Palace of Versailles is located 20 km from Paris in the Yvelines city of Versailles. If you're weighing up whether the excursion is worth it, then it's good to know that a train ride out to Versailles takes just an hour via the RER train from central Paris.

How big is the Palace of Versailles?

The palace is known for being pretty large. Whether you judge it on its 2,300 rooms or the 8.2 km² area of the palace and grounds, it's fair to say King Louis XIV wasn't going for subtle and understated when he completed Château de Versailles.

When is the Palace of Versailles closed?

The only weekday on which the Palace of Versailles is closed to the public is Monday. You can experience the opulence of the famous Château from Tuesday to Sunday. If you'd simply like to stroll around the grounds, the Palace's park is open every day. Typically, the busiest day at the palace is Tuesday and the least busy is Thursday, although there isn't a quiet day.

How long does it take to visit the Palace of Versailles?

All things considered, you're best to block out the whole day to make the most of your Palace of Versailles tickets. If you just want to explore the Palace itself, you should leave at least 2-3 hours to see highlights like King Louis XIV's bedroom, the Queen's Apartments, and the stunning Hall of Mirrors. But when you consider there are also temporary exhibitions, the Trianon Palaces, Marie Antoinette’s private estate, the Grand Canal, the royal stables, and a maze of gardens to enjoy, it really does make sense to spend the whole day in Versailles. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing as well as good shoes, and bring a fully charged battery so you can take as many photos as you want. Check out the 'Visiting Versailles' guide below for more insider tips on how to make the most of your time.

Highlights: Palace of Versailles

Visit the height of monarchical magnificence and see Louis XIV's unrivalled palatial estate The center of French power during the 17th and 18th centuries See the world-famous Hall of Mirrors Marvel at the opulence of the King's Grand Apartments Learn about French history in the Museum of the History of France Explore Versailles' gardens, which epitomize the French formal garden style Discover the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette's luxurious private hamlet on the estate

With 15 million visitors annually, you'll definitely want to reserve Versailles tickets in advance. As one of France's most popular attractions, make sure you have peace of mind knowing you've already secured your ticket. There's a range of Versailles tickets available, so make sure you select the type that's right for you. Palace of Versailles tickets can include: Entry to the Palace of Versailles , the gardens, and the Estate of Trianon Guided tours of Versailles can get you skip-the-line access to the gardens and the estate, as well as an expert guide. Take advantage of a day trip ticket to get skip-the-line tickets to the Palace of Versailles and the gardens and round trip transportation from Paris by coach

Free entry: The park is open 365 days a year and is always free The gardens are free too, except on Musical Fountains Show and Musical Gardens days (Tuesdays, Fridays, weekends and national holidays during high season – April to October) You may be eligible for free admission to the Palace of Versailles, its exhibits, and the surrounding estates. If you are, make sure to book a time-stamped ticket through the official site and select the free ticket option You can visit the Versailles Estate for free on the first Sunday of the month from November to March Accessibility information: Guide dogs are permitted throughout the entire Estate (please ensure you have proof) All areas of the Palace and the Grand Trianon are accessible for disabled people The first floor of the Petit Trianon is not accessible to those with a motor disability. There is a multimedia room on the ground floor that offers these guests a presentation of the first floor and the attic Pushchairs are permitted inside the palace General information: Suitcases are prohibited inside Small bags can be left in lockers (for luggage not exceeding 46 x 43 x 26 cm)