Items | Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour
Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour
(209) Reviews
Île-de-France
About
Discover Versailles at an easy pace with an entertaining native English-speaking historian and specialist guide. This intimate full-day experience (maximum 10 guests) combines engaging storytelling with reserved access to Versailles’ most iconic landmarks.
Your day includes: • A guided tour of the massive Versailles Gardens (with Fountain Shows included on show days) • A ride on the Little Train to discover hidden gems without the long walk • A guided tour of Marie-Antoinette’s private Estate and Hamlet/Farm • The Palace: Step into the Royal Chapel, the State Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors to see the inner lives of the monarchy
A relaxing, leisure-paced day. We take proper breaks at t...
Highlights
From 6 hours to 7 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
From 6 hours to 7 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Versailles Gardens Admission Ticket with Guided Tour (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)
Timed entry Palace of Versailles Ticket for self-guided exploration, avoiding the long queues
Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet Ticket and Guided Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off Train Ticket in Versailles Gardens
Expert, native English-speaking professional guide
Maximum group size of 10 guests for a more personalised tour
Guests are required to arrange their own transportation to Versailles
Rain jackets
Snacks and Lunch
Meeting Points
Departure
2 Pl. Léon Gambetta
Alistair will be outside Brasserie du Musée (Restaurant) at 2 Place Léon Gambetta, 78000, ready for your Tour from 9:15 AM. It's near the Palace of Versailles. He will have your tickets, so look for his green backpack! The tour starts at 9:30 AM.
Return
Palace of Versailles
The tour finishes at the Palace, where Alistair shares an overview of the key highlights—the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the State Apartments, and the Hall of Mirrors—before guests begin their self-guided exploration.
Important Information
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Please provide us with the guest’s MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including the country code). The reason is simple but crucial: guests sometimes arrive late. If a tour operator books on their behalf and uses the operator’s number instead of the guest’s, we have no way of contacting them directly. Unless the guest reaches out to us, they cannot rejoin the tour. However, if we have the guest’s own number, we can immediately send their tickets and ensure they can easily rejoin the tour without missing out.
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This 1.5-mile walk is downhill and is not suitable for strollers or small children (+7 years old only)
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
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Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
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Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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Encounter Louis XIV, the illustrious Sun King, and the majestic Palace of Versailles, which he transformed from a simple hunting lodge into a magnificent royal palace. Construction began in 1661 and took over 50 years, with every detail reflecting his grand vision.
15 minutes
2
Jardins du Chateau de Versailles
Explore the captivating French garden design style created by André Le Nôtre at Versailles in the 17th century, which set the standard for the French garden aesthetic. Showcasing formal symmetry and geometric layouts, these gardens embody the grandeur of the French Baroque style and reflect the artistry behind these stunning landscapes.
3
L'Orangerie
Louis XIV, known for his larger-than-life personality and ambitious vision, surrounded himself with brilliant architects, artists, and gardeners to realize his grand ideas, such as the construction of the L'Orangerie at Versailles to cultivate exotic citrus fruits. Its thick walls protect these delicate plants from freezing temperatures, highlighting Louis XIV's dedication to innovation in both gardening and architecture.
15 minutes
4
Latona Fountain
Discover how Louis XIV wielded power through design, using architecture and art to assert his authority, as exemplified by the Latona Fountain, symbolizing his divine right to rule.
10 minutes
5
Grand Canal
As we gaze upon the Grand Canal from the Palace of Versailles, witness the enchanting classical French formal garden style, which emphasizes symmetry, order, and a beautiful balance between nature and architecture. This picturesque scene, meticulously landscaped to embody Louis XIV's grand vision, showcases the artistry and thoughtful planning behind this remarkable estate, inspiring all who visit.
10 minutes
6
Ballroom Grove
Welcome to the Ballroom Grove, or "La Salle de Bal," an enchanting space at the Palace of Versailles where Louis XIV often entertained guests, showcasing his passion for dance and the arts. This beautifully designed area features elaborate landscaping and a stunning fountain, which served as a backdrop for the king's grand performances, during which he famously dressed as the sun god Apollo, embodying the essence of his reign.
20 minutes
7
Bassin du Miroir
As we approach the Bassin du Miroir, or Mirror Basin, you'll encounter a striking feature of the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, ingeniously designed to reflect the grandeur of the surrounding landscape. Positioned in front of the iconic Grand Canal, this rectangular pond captures the vibrant sky, majestic trees, and ornate palace architecture, beautifully showcasing the harmony of nature and design.
20 minutes
8
Colonnade Grove
As we enter the Colonnade Grove, you'll be greeted by a stunning series of classical columns that create a striking architectural framework, surrounded by elegant fountains and meticulously curated plantings. Designed as a serene retreat for Louis XIV and his court, this beautiful space offers a peaceful escape from the palace's formalities, allowing them to relax and enjoy leisurely pursuits amidst the beauty of nature.
20 minutes
9
Apollo Fountain
As we approach the Apollo Fountain, or "Bassin d'Apollon," you will discover one of the most iconic features of the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, depicting the sun god Apollo emerging from the waters in a chariot drawn by four majestic horses. Surrounded by intricate sculptures of sea creatures and allegorical figures, this stunning fountain symbolizes Louis XIV's divine association as the Sun King and serves as a breathtaking centerpiece that beautifully integrates water, art, and nature.
10 minutes
10
Bosquet de L'encelade
Welcome to the Bosquet d'Encelade, a captivating grove within the gardens of the Palace of Versailles that intricately weaves Greek mythology into its design, named after the giant Enceladus. The central fountain showcases dramatic sculptures depicting his defeat at the hands of Athena and Zeus, symbolizing the triumph of divine order over chaos in this mythical space where art and storytelling converge for a truly unique experience.
10 minutes
11
Les Terrasses de la Petite Venise
Terrasses de la Petite Venise is a charming café situated in the gardens of Versailles, offering a delightful selection of pastries, expertly brewed coffees, and delicious sandwiches. Guests can enjoy their treats on the beautiful outdoor terrace while taking in the scenic surroundings, with convenient restroom facilities nearby for estate visitors.
Adjacent to the café, you'll find the hop-on hop-off train, providing easy access back to the Palace of Versailles (3rd stop) after visiting the Petit Trianon (2nd stop), the hamlet of Marie-Antoinette. Tickets for the hop-on hop-off train are included and will be organized by Alistair.
30 minutes
12
Le Petit Trianon
The Petit Trianon served as a cherished retreat for Marie Antoinette, offering her an escape from the formalities of court life. She transformed its gardens into a pastoral haven, creating a charming "hamlet" reminiscent of a quaint Austrian peasant village, complete with rustic buildings, a farm, and picturesque landscapes. This unexpected setting, akin to a scene from Disney World, embodied her desire for simplicity and tranquility, providing a private sanctuary where she could unwind and embrace a more natural lifestyle away from the strictures of royal expectations.
1 hour
13
Le Grand Trianon
The Grand Trianon, the first stop on the hop-on hop-off train, is a beautiful retreat built for Louis XIV, showcasing stunning architecture and tranquil gardens that provide a glimpse into the royal lifestyle.
14
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, created by Louis XIV, the Sun King, is a stunning representation of absolute monarchy, featuring the renowned Hall of Mirrors, opulent ballrooms, and the private chambers of the king. With their timed entry tickets, visitors can effortlessly explore the grandeur of this historic palace and its exquisite architecture, rich history, and intricate details.
1 hour and 15 minutes
Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour
(209) Reviews
Île-de-France
Select Date & Travelers
From
$131.00
Price varies by group size
About
Discover Versailles at an easy pace with an entertaining native English-speaking historian and specialist guide. This intimate full-day experience (maximum 10 guests) combines engaging storytelling with reserved access to Versailles’ most iconic landmarks.
Your day includes: • A guided tour of the massive Versailles Gardens (with Fountain Shows included on show days) • A ride on the Little Train to discover hidden gems without the long walk • A guided tour of Marie-Antoinette’s private Estate and Hamlet/Farm • The Palace: Step into the Royal Chapel, the State Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors to see the inner lives of the monarchy
A relaxing, leisure-paced day. We take proper breaks at t...
Highlights
From 6 hours to 7 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
From 6 hours to 7 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Versailles Gardens Admission Ticket with Guided Tour (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)
Timed entry Palace of Versailles Ticket for self-guided exploration, avoiding the long queues
Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet Ticket and Guided Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off Train Ticket in Versailles Gardens
Expert, native English-speaking professional guide
Maximum group size of 10 guests for a more personalised tour
Guests are required to arrange their own transportation to Versailles
Rain jackets
Snacks and Lunch
Meeting Points
Departure
2 Pl. Léon Gambetta
Alistair will be outside Brasserie du Musée (Restaurant) at 2 Place Léon Gambetta, 78000, ready for your Tour from 9:15 AM. It's near the Palace of Versailles. He will have your tickets, so look for his green backpack! The tour starts at 9:30 AM.
Return
Palace of Versailles
The tour finishes at the Palace, where Alistair shares an overview of the key highlights—the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the State Apartments, and the Hall of Mirrors—before guests begin their self-guided exploration.