Majestic and beautiful, Versailles is the former unofficial capital of France. Remarkably, the estate sits just 10 miles outside of Paris and is easily reachable by train. Versailles is renowned worldwide for the Château de Versailles and the Gardens of Versailles. Undeniably, both are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Small List
Best Hotel
Trianon Palace Versailles Hotel – Thoughtful accommodations set amid the tranquil, three acre Parc de Versailles. The hotel is located on the edge of the Royal Domain, less than a mile from Louis XIV’s world famous Chateau de Versailles.
Things to See
The Potager du Roi – Built between 1678 and 1683 at the request of Louis XIV. This remarkable French garden near the Palace produced fresh vegetables and fruits for the table of the King’s court.
Domaine de Marie Antoinette – The Domaine is the home of the last Queen of France before the French Revolution. Marie Antoinette came to the Petit Trianon not only to escape the formality of court life, but also to shake off the burden of her royal responsibilities. The Petit Trianon was her place of ease and leisure.
Palace of Versailles – The Royal Chateau since 1682 was originally built as a hunting lodge. The Palace became the seat of political power when King Louis XIV moved the royal court from Paris. The Palace is the most lavish and opulent of all palaces. It encompasses 721,182 sq. ft. with 700 rooms, more than 2,000 windows, 1,250 fireplaces and 67 staircases. With 60,000 artworks, 5 centuries of French History are illustrated. The outdoor arena is home to 50 water fountains, meticulously manicured lawns, formal French gardens (now a UNESCO World Heritage site), and countless sculptures.