Versailles is a popular city 12 miles outside of Paris. It is most commonly for the Palace. I mean this Palace is literally the best in the world! It started as a hunting lodge in 1589 and was enlarged in the late 1600’s. It was split into four main sections – The Palace, The Estate of Trianon, The Gardens and The Royal Stables. King Louis XIV is cited as the King who made the palace what it is today. He had multiple additions done such as the Royal Chapels, Hall of Mirrors, The North Wing and so much more. By 1682 it was no longer just a place of leisure but the main residence of the French Court. After King Louis XIV died the palace was neglected as the court returned to Paris. It wasn’t until King Louis XV that more work was done to the interior and exterior. It was also during this time that Mozart visited and performed as a “child Prodigy.” The final King Louis XVI kept up with Versailles as a luxury place for the wealthy. He married Marie Antoinette and they became know for their many parties. Marie also added her own private domain as well as working farm. She added it to make it feel like she lived a “normal” life. That farm is still working and in use by the Palace today. At this time however the French Revolution had taken off and the monarchy was ended. During the revolution luckily Versailles remained mostly unscathed and slight work had to be done. It was later deemed as a work of art and turned into a museum. Today its open to the public and still host events for the current French government.
French is the dominant language while few will speak English. It’s important however to not assume they speak English and to always ask first.
Bonjour – Hello
S’il vous plaît - Please
Parlez Vous Anglais – Do you speak English
Excusez Moi – Excuse me
Pardon – Sorry
Merci Beaucoup – Thanks you very much
This hotel is an amazing stay that is great for your budget! It has the feel of a four-star hotel with a budget price. It includes an amazing breakfast and you are within walking distance of the Palace.
The average price per night starts at €120.
You literally could not get closer to the Palace. Its situated across the street and this hotel is four stars! With a 24 hour bar, snacks all day, amazing service and an included breakfast you cannot go wrong by staying here.
The average price per night starts at €145.
This is hands down the best hotel in Versailles. It is located on the ground floor of the Ancient Regime palace which dates back to the 17th century! The hotel looks like a true palace and is luxury at its finest. Except grand chandeliers and gold leaf everywhere. You will also be only a half mile away from the Palace.
The average price per night starts at €350.
My favorite historical figure from Versailles is Louis XV. He has the second longest reign in France which lasted 59 years and was known as “Louis the Beloved”. He is also cited as the royal authority that helped lead to the decline of the Monarchy and the French Revolution. During his reign he went through three major wars and led France to victory. Although he is not as interesting as his grandson who was executed or the other who created Palace of Versailles, he had a major role in shaping France’s history.
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Versailles is known for its grandeur history and that reflects in the cuisine. They are mostly known for fine dining and top-quality signature dishes.
A small and intimate dining spot that was voted one of the best in the whole city. The menu changes based on the season and available produce. The menu is featured on a chalk board listing the specials for the day.
Average meal per person is €20 .
Another restaurant by Ramsey that is located in the Waldorf hotel. While you can have a fine dining experience here, they also offer what is known as “an express lunch in a royal setting.” The great thing about this is if you need to have a meal that doesn’t last four hours (like most European meals) this is for you. They guarantee you to be in and out in one hour! Plus, it’s still a three-course meal with starter, main and dessert. Its only €49 per person!
Average meal per person is €50.
Ramsay is known as one of the top chefs in the world and his restaurants are legendary. Inside of the Waldorf is a Michelin star experience. With amazing views of Versailles, you have to budget for at least one meal here. They have an al carte menu as well as their signature menu. A seven-course meal is €199 per person.
Average meal per person is €125.
Versailles is on the E plug which is 230V and standard frequency is 50 HZ. To avoid issues, you will need an adapter AND convertor! I would recommend BESTEK Universal it works in multiple destinations and has USB ports. I have been using it for a while and love it! Now all my ladies out there you will need a DIFFERENT adapter for your curling irons and straighteners. I know its extra money but trust me! I have blown out a few curling irons, it’s worth the extra money and luggage space. Conair has the best adapter for pretty much every country. Check it out here.
The French get a bad rep for being rude, and I would disagree with this. They are just big on respect and don’t respond to people assuming they speak English. When you are approaching someone ask first if they speak English, they will be more inclined to be polite and help you.
Versailles is a safe destination for solo female travelers. I have never felt unsafe there and have had great interactions with locals. Being a busy tourist city, the main concern is pick pockets. For more information click here.
Visiting in the spring is the best time to visit. Crowds are lower and you have fantastic weather. The gardens are amazing at that time of year too!
Make sure to stay at least two full days and make it more than a day trip from Paris. Versailles is really an amazing city with so much to see and do. Allocate a few days so you can really enjoy the city!
versailles being a city in France is a part of the EU and is on the Euro. versailles is a large city and you will have no problem using credit cards or finding an ATM.
Walking is the best way to get around the city. You can utilize the public transportation but mostly everything is reachable by foot.
Wifi is available at most locations for free but it will be limited. Depending on the length of your trip either add international to your plan or invest in a portable wifi. A company I use often is SkyRoam, they have very affordable rates!
If you want to live up your Marie Antoinette dreams then visiting a ball at The Palace of Versailles is a must! They host an annual masked ball at the palace and it’s a BIG deal! I mean people go all out in these costumes which are required. Dress like your from the 17th century and party all night in the Palace like a true royal!
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