Beyond Your Travel

Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour

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Duration

6 to 7 hours

Group Size

1 to 14 people

Ages

7 - 85 yrs

Languages

English

Tour Overview

• Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Versailles Gardens, with musical fountain shows on select days • Step into Marie-Antoinette’s enchanting Hamlet and working farm — a favorite with children • Enjoy relaxing breaks at La Petite Venise and Angelina cafés • Breeze past the queues with pre-booked tickets to the Palace of Versailles Meet Alistair, your expert native English-speaking professional guide, at the Brasserie du Musée (a 2-minute walk from the Palace's main entrance) for a relaxed 6-7 hour adventure. Ideal for history buffs and families, this small-group walking and little train tour (up to 14 guests) by Storytale Tours makes Versailles effortless. What Guests Say “Like walking through history with a friend — Alistair is the Louis XIV whisperer.” “Even our teens were engaged the whole time!” “Alistair’s kindness and knowledge made our visit unforgettable.” “The best tour of our entire Europe trip.”

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This 1.5-mile walk is downhill and may not be suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with canes, or small children (+7 years old only)

Pickup

Your guide 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. They will have your tickets, so look for a green backpack! The tour starts at 9:30 AM. - Time zone: Europe/Paris

Meeting Information: Your guide will be waiting for you outside Brasserie du Musée (Restaurant), 2 Place Léon Gambetta, 78000 starting at 9:15 AM and 1.15 PM. They will have your Tickets for the Day, so look for their green backpack! The tours will commence promptly at 9:30 AM and 1.30 PM. Transport Guidance: To help you navigate easily, please download the Citymapper app for the best transport directions or you can take an Uber to the Meeting Point which is located by the Palace of Versailles.

What's included

Timed entry Palace of Versailles Ticket for self-guided exploration, avoiding the long queues

Maximum group size of 14 guests for a more personalised tour

Versailles Gardens Admission Ticket with Guided Tour (Musical Fountains show as per program)

Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet Ticket and Guided Tour

Expert, native English-speaking professional guide

Hop-On Hop-Off Train Ticket in Versailles Gardens

Other

Itinerary

Stop 1: 0.3 hours

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.

Stop 2:

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.

Stop 3: 0.3 hours

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.

Stop 4: 0.2 hours

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.

Stop 5: 0.2 hours

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.

Stop 6: 0.3 hours

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.

Stop 7: 0.3 hours

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.

Stop 8: 0.3 hours

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.

Stop 9: 0.2 hours

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.

Stop 10: 0.2 hours

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.

Stop 11: 0.5 hours

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.

Stop 12: 1 hours

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.

Stop 13:

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.

Stop 14: 1.3 hours

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 skip-the-line timed entry tickets, visitors can effortlessly explore the grandeur of this historic palace and its exquisite architecture, rich history, and intricate details.

FAQ

Can I get the refund?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Min 1 days: 100%
From 0 to 1 days: 0%

Tickets

Adult (18 - 85 years)

Minimum: 1, Maximum: 14

Children (7 - 17 years)

Minimum: 0, Maximum: 14