The Versailles Guided Tour and Priority Access With Hotel Pickup offers visitors a chance to explore the iconic Palace of Versailles with convenience and priority access. This comprehensive 6-hour experience includes skip-the-line entry, an expert guide, and transportation from select Paris districts. Whether you’re interested in the grandeur of the palace or the tranquility of the gardens, this tour caters to a range of group sizes and walking abilities. With inclusions like the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, it’s an opportunity to explore the rich history and opulence of Versailles. But the true highlight may be what lies beyond the palace walls…
Key Points
- This guided tour of Versailles offers skip-the-line access to the palace and gardens, with expert commentary and hotel pickup/drop-off from select Paris districts.
- The tour is available in small-group (max 18) and larger group (up to 28) formats, with a choice of morning or afternoon departure.
- The guided portion of the tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours for small groups and 1.5 hours for larger groups.
- Entrance to the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon is included in the half-day tour option.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
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Overview of the Tour
This 6-hour small-group tour of the Palace of Versailles offers visitors the opportunity to skip-the-line and explore the magnificent palace and its expansive gardens.
Guests can choose between a morning or afternoon departure time and enjoy included round-trip hotel transportation from Paris.
The tour features a guided exploration of the palace, with an expert guide providing insight into the rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors will also have the chance to stroll through the statue-filled palace gardens.
Upgrade options include the Versailles fountain show or musical gardens on select days.
With entrance fees and a guided tour included, this comprehensive experience provides an immersive look at the splendor of Versailles.
Included in the Tour
The tour includes hotel/residence pickup and drop-off in select Paris districts, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.
Palace and garden tickets are provided, granting visitors skip-the-line access to explore the magnificent grounds.
Plus, a guided tour is included, with an expert guide leading small groups through the palace for 2.5 hours or larger groups for 1.5 hours, providing valuable insights into the rich history and stunning architecture.
Entrance fees to the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon are also covered for those on the half-day tour.
However, the train to the Trianons and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.
Not Included in the Tour
While the tour does cover a significant portion of the Versailles experience, there are a few additional costs not included in the tour price.
The train fare to the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon isn’t covered for those on the half-day tour option. Similarly, gratuities for the guide are left to the discretion of the participants.
Those who select the small group tour without transportation will need to handle their own transportation to the meeting point.
The tour is also not wheelchair accessible, so participants must be able to walk for approximately 3 hours during the experience.
Tour Options
Offering a range of tour sizes to accommodate different group preferences, the Versailles Guided Tour provides options for small groups of 11, 16, or 18 participants, as well as a guided tour for up to 28 travelers.
The semi-private 11-person tour allows for a more intimate experience, while the 16-person and 18-person small group tours offer a slightly larger, but still personalized, setting.
For those seeking a larger group experience, the guided tour for 28 people is available.
Alternatively, travelers can opt for the 18-person small group tour without transportation, providing the flexibility to arrange their own means of reaching Versailles.
These diverse tour options cater to a range of group sizes and needs, ensuring a memorable Versailles experience.
Logistics
Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of purchase or within 48 hours if the experience is booked within 3 days of the travel date.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and participants must be able to walk for approximately 3 hours.
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 18 travelers.
The logistics of the tour include:
- Walking for around 3 hours
- Navigating the expansive palace and gardens
- Exploring the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon (half-day tour)
- Adhering to the group size cap of 18 travelers
With a focus on efficiency and convenience, the Versailles Guided Tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Cancellation Policy
The tour has a cancellation policy that allows for a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time, but no refund is provided for cancellations within 24 hours of the start time.
This policy is designed to ensure that the tour operator can effectively manage bookings and accommodate all guests. Travelers are advised to plan their schedules carefully and provide ample notice if they need to cancel their tour.
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
The tour includes hotel/residence pickup and drop-off in select Paris districts, providing a convenient and seamless travel experience for guests. This service eliminates the need for guests to navigate public transportation or arrange their own travel to and from the Palace of Versailles. Instead, they can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
The pickup and drop-off locations include:
- Central Paris hotels
- Apartments and vacation rentals in the city center
- Major train stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon
- Popular tourist hubs such as the Louvre and Champs-Élysées
This added convenience allows guests to focus on the tour itself, making the most of their time at the magnificent Palace of Versailles.
Duration and Group Size
The tour offers a choice between a morning or afternoon start time, allowing visitors to plan their day accordingly.
The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, with a maximum of 18 travelers. Participants can expect to spend approximately 3 hours exploring the palace and its expansive gardens during the guided tour.
The tour is available in several configurations, including semi-private (11 participants) and larger group options (up to 28 travelers). Regardless of group size, the tour provides skip-the-line access, ensuring efficient entry to the palace.
Whether visitors choose the morning or afternoon tour, they can look forward to an immersive and personalized experience exploring the grandeur of Versailles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but participants are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Formal attire is not required, though visitors should avoid excessive casual wear.
Can I Take Photographs Inside the Palace?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the Palace of Versailles, but they’re prohibited in certain areas like the Hall of Mirrors. It’s best to check with tour guides for specific photography rules during the visit.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the Versailles guided tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length and walking required.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Into the Palace?
Visitors can bring food and drinks into the Palace of Versailles, but they’re not allowed to consume them inside the palace itself. There are designated picnic areas in the gardens where visitors can enjoy their meals.
Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves a significant amount of walking over 3 hours and is not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be able to walk for this duration.
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Recap
The Versailles Guided Tour and Priority Access With Hotel Pickup offers a comprehensive experience to explore the iconic Palace of Versailles.
Guests can enjoy skip-the-line access, expert guidance, and convenient transportation from select Paris districts.
With a duration of approximately 6 hours and suitable for various group sizes, this tour caters to visitors seeking an in-depth Versailles experience.