It's not surprising that visitors come to Versailles, as it offers museums and attractions and romance.
The centerpiece of Versailles is undoubtedly the Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles), a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its incredible Hall of Mirrors, lavish royal apartments, and the extensive, immaculately landscaped gardens. The vast grounds are dotted with fountains, sculptures, the Grand Trianon, and Petit Trianon, once home to Marie Antoinette.
Entry to the palace (official ticket website) requires a time slot to be booked in advance. Entry is currently €32 with access to the Palace, Estate of Trianon and the Gardens. If you just want to visit the Palace itself, the price is €21. The gardens are free without entering the palace, but only on days where a "Musical Fountains" or "Musical Gardens" show is not scheduled. Children under 18 are free, but still require a booked time slot. A variety of tours and other activities at the palace are also offered, such as boat rides, horseback riding, and evening shows.
Elsewhere in the town, for those interested in history, the Musee Lambinet offers a collection focused on local art and heritage within a charming townhouse. The Notre-Dame Market is an attraction in itself, one of the largest markets in the region, housed near the historic Notre-Dame Church. Stroll the elegant Place d’Armes, visit the regal Royal Chapel, and admire the ornate gates of the palace. The Potager du Roi, the former King’s Kitchen Garden, is a hidden gem known for its historic orchard and rare vegetables. There are smaller sights as well, like the charming antique shops in the Saint-Louis district and the imposing Versailles Cathedral.
Beyond admiring the palace and gardens, visitors can enjoy a range of activities throughout Versailles. Renting a bike or rowboat offers a unique way to explore the sprawling palace grounds and the Grand Canal. The parkland is perfect for picnics or leisurely walks, especially during fountain shows in summer when the gardens come alive with classical music and water displays. Food lovers should not miss the local markets, particularly the Marche Notre-Dame, where you can savor fresh produce, cheese, and pastries. History buffs will enjoy guided walking tours of the city’s old quarters and the royal neighborhoods of Saint-Louis and Notre-Dame. The city also hosts occasional open-air concerts, flea markets, and seasonal festivities. Day trips into the Chevreuse Valley for country walks or visits to local vineyards are also possible. Shopping enthusiasts will find boutiques and antique shops scattered throughout the central avenues.
Museums and Attractions:
The museums and landmarks in Versailles have earned worldwide fame. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.