The Best of Versailles

Mary Antoinette’s stomping grounds, Palace of Versailles, is a must-see if you ever travel to Paris. After a short train ride, nothing could prepare me for what lay right around the corner. It was more sumptuous, grand, and had more gold gilt and marble than I had imagined.

Truly humbled by the massive palace, Danny, our daughter, Courtney, and I waited in line. Since it was Father’s Day, we wouldn’t face the crowds like in the Louvre. We lucked out!

Even the hallways are extraordinary.

A room fit for a queen and lots of maids in waiting with brushes, makeup, and the outfit of the day in hand.

An amazing historical art gallery under a ceiling of skylights.

Back out into the hall where rose marble lined the walls. I found pieces of that special colored rock all over the gardens.

And last but not least the Hall of Mirrors.

Look at all that space! Some families must have opted for sporting events, brunch, or other outdoor activities in honor of Dad’s day.

We strode from one gold room to another until they soon became a blur.

We were ready for snack time. I would recommend the restaurant in the palace. There was a line but we feasted our eyes on the dessert case while waiting.

Then we stepped outside for a tour of the magnificent gardens.

We would have to wait for the fountain to start. The birds had formed a line.

A few tourists sought shelter from the sun while exploring the vast estate grounds.

There’s nothing like dancing at Versailles. It’s just like back in the day only without the pomp, the circumstance, or wigs.

We discovered several summer houses with much less gold but with pretty formal decor nonetheless.

Cards Against Humanity anyone?

We walked all the way to the farthest corner of the estate, but it was closed. We peeked through the garden gate under the trellised roses to the cute cottage.

On our way back toward Versailles Palace, the fountains turned on and classical music poured through hidden speakers. It was breathtaking.

A couple of travel tips:

It was a long day of walking, but I loved every minute of it. Next time, I’ll find out where to rent bikes.

Tickets can be bought in advance but go into the ticket office (on the far left side) and trade them in for hard copies before getting in line.

We went to the restaurant instead of the cafeteria. It was worth the wait to be waited on just like Marie Antoinette, or any other restaurant customer.

I hope you enjoyed this travel adventure!

Have you ever been to Versailles? Is it on your bucket list?

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