The official website of the Palace of Versailles says you need a full day, but how much time do you need really for Versailles, especially if you want to be efficient?
Half a day or less, depending on if you want to visit Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon.
How to get to Versailles
By Train
Versailles-Chantiers Train station: There are direct connections from Paris Montparnasse Hall 1 – 2 close to the Tour Montparnasse to Versailles-Chantiers (around 16 min). From Versailles-Chantiers to the palace, it is around a 20-minute walk. If you do not want to walk, you can take the EX01 leaving at the train station or a taxi.
Versailles Château – Rive Gauche train station: From Champs de Mars (Eiffel Tower), Invalides, Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame and Musée d’Orsay there is a direct connection with the C-line. This is only a 10-minute walk from the palace. Please note the C-line might be under construction.
Versailles Rive Droite train station: From Gare Saint Lazare, there is a direct connection to the Versailles Rive Droite train station via the L-line. This is only a 15- 20-minute walk from the palace.
For most the most convenient option is traveling over the Versailles Château – Rive Gauche train station.
Cost: 7€
Frequency: 15-20 minutes
Duration: 40 minutes
By Bus
The Bus line 171 connects Musée de Sèvres with Hôtel de Ville, with the Château de Versailles. It takes around 30-40 min plus 7 min walking.
Cost: 4€
Frequency: 15-20 minutes
Duration: 40 minutes
By Car
The fastest way to the Palace of Versailles from Paris with a car is via the N118. It takes between 40 min-1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Duration: 40-90 minutes
By Taxi
You can always opt for a taxi, especially if you are a group of people.
Cost: 60+€
Duration: 40-90 minutes
By Tour
To avoid the hassle and stress of planning your trip to Versailles, you can book some tours online. I recommend taking the early option at 8:15.
Tipps for Versailles
Transportation
The easiest and fastest way to Versailles is with a train.
Be early
The palace opens at 9 a.m. Be there at least 15 min early.
Buy ticket online
Buy your ticket online way in advance and select the 9:00 a.m. spot
Take advantage of park transportation
There is an option to book a bike, sit on the little train, or a small electric vehicle for the park. It will allow you to see more in less time. The little train is great for the commute between Petit Trianon, Grand Trianon, and the top of Grand Canal (near Little Venice). The other two options are great for discovering the park.
Take the train, be early, buy your ticket online in advance for 9:00 a.m., and take advantage of park transportation, you will need half a day or less to see Versailles!
