At-a-Glance: Versailles Ticket Comparison

The right ticket depends on what you want to see (Palace, Gardens, Trianon Estate), when you’re visiting (fountain show days vs. regular days), and how much time you have. Use this quick comparison to decide:

Versailles Ticket Types Explained

1) Passport Ticket (Full Estate)

The Versailles Passport ticket is the most complete option. It covers the Palace of Versailles, the Gardens of Versailles, the Estate of Trianon (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen’s Hamlet), and temporary exhibitions. On Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens days (spring-autumn), the Passport includes those garden shows too-no extra add-on needed.

• Available as 1-day or 2-day Passport.
• Timed entry to the Palace is required; pick a time slot when booking.
• Ideal if you want “everything” in one go or plan to explore at a relaxed pace across two days.
• Includes the audio guide for the Palace (multi-language).

2) Palace Ticket (Château)

The Palace-only ticket grants access to the main palace, including the Hall of Mirrors and State Apartments. It’s best for shorter visits or if you’re not planning to visit the Trianon Estate.

• Timed entry is mandatory; it helps regulate crowds.
• Includes the audio guide.
• Does not include Musical Fountains/Gardens admission on show days (but you can enter the Gardens for free on non-show days).

3) Estate of Trianon Ticket

The Estate of Trianon ticket gives access to the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Queen’s Hamlet. It’s a more relaxed, pastoral side of Versailles, with fewer crowds than the Palace.

• Often no timed entry required.
• Great for a second visit or if you prefer gardens and architecture over grand interiors.
• Note: The Trianon Estate typically opens later in the morning/around midday; check the day’s schedule.

4) Gardens Tickets: Musical Fountains Show and Musical Gardens

The Gardens of Versailles are free to access on most days. However, on designated Musical Fountains and Musical Gardens days (usually spring to autumn), there’s a paid garden ticket unless you have a Passport. These events feature baroque music and choreographed fountains-magical for photographers and families.

• On show days: buy a Gardens ticket or a Passport.
• On non-show days: the Gardens are free, but the Groves may be closed.
• There are occasional evening fountain shows (separate tickets) that include fireworks on select dates.

Always check the official calendar for exact dates; the schedule changes annually.

5) Guided Tours (Official Versailles)

Official guided tours often include access to the Palace and sometimes to special areas not open on the standard visit (for example, the King’s Private Apartments on select tours). If you love history and storytelling, guided tours add context and can streamline your visit.

• Your tour time acts as the entry slot.
• Tours are led by certified guides and are available in multiple languages.
• Third-party “skip-the-line” tours can be convenient, but read inclusions closely.

About “Skip-the-Line”

Most “skip-the-line” claims refer to skipping the ticket purchase line, not the security check. With a timed entry ticket, you’ll still pass security. Arrive 20-30 minutes before your slot, especially at peak times (mornings, weekends, holidays).

Free Admission, Discounts, and the Paris Museum Pass

Who Gets in Free?

Versailles offers generous free admission categories. Highlights include:

• Under 18 (all nationalities)
• EU residents 18-25 (valid ID required)
• Disabled visitors and one companion
• Several other categories (e.g., certain teachers, job seekers in France) as listed on the official website

Even if you qualify for free admission, you should book a free timed-entry ticket to the Palace to secure a slot. Security screening still applies.

First Sunday Free

Traditionally, the first Sunday of the month from November to March offers free admission to the Palace for everyone. You still need to book a free timed slot in advance. Expect crowds-arrive early.

Paris Museum Pass (PMP)

• The PMP includes the Palace and the Estate of Trianon.
• It does not cover the paid Gardens on Musical Fountains/Gardens days; buy a Gardens ticket or Passport if visiting then.
• You must still reserve a free timed entry for the Palace with your PMP.

Where and How to Buy Versailles Tickets

• Official website: Best prices, clearest inclusions, and reliable timed entry availability.
• Reputable resellers: Useful when official slots are sold out; verify inclusions (Palace vs. Passport, audio guide, garden shows).
• On-site purchase: Not recommended in peak season; you risk long waits or sold-out time slots.

Tip: Book your timed entry as soon as your travel dates are set-especially for weekends, holidays, and summer. If traveling with the Paris Museum Pass or eligible for free entry, still pre-book a free time slot for the Palace.

Timed Entry, Sample Itineraries, and Best Time to Visit

Understanding Timed Entry

• Timed entry applies to the Palace (not typically to the Gardens or Trianon).
• Arrive 20-30 minutes early for security. Late arrivals might be held until capacity frees up.
• Keep the QR code ready on your phone; paper printouts also work.

Best Time to Visit

• Palace closed on Mondays; open Tuesday-Sunday.
• Arrive at opening or after 3:00 pm to avoid peak crowds.
• Wednesday and Thursday are often quieter than Tuesday (many Paris museums are closed Tuesday, shifting crowds to Versailles).
• Spring-summer is busiest; autumn-winter is calmer with shorter lines.
• On Musical Fountains days, the Gardens are livelier and busier, but the experience is special.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day (Palace Focus)

1. Arrive for a 9:00-9:30 am slot.
2. Visit the State Apartments and Hall of Mirrors first; then explore exhibitions.
3. Stroll the Gardens if time allows (free on non-show days).

Full Day (Passport Ticket)

1. Morning: Palace with audio guide.
2. Midday: Lunch break in the Gardens or at the Grand Canal (picnic allowed in the Park; respect signage).
3. Afternoon: Estate of Trianon and Queen’s Hamlet (typically open later in the morning/around midday).
4. If a Musical Fountains day: enjoy the fountain timings in the afternoon.

Two Days (2-Day Passport)

1. Day 1: Palace + select Groves.
2. Day 2: Trianon Estate + deeper Gardens exploration, bike or golf cart rental in the Park (extra cost).

Practical Tips: Security, Bags, Accessibility, and More

Security and Bag Policy

• All visitors pass through airport-style security.
• No large luggage or oversized backpacks; pack light.
• Strollers: Allowed in the Gardens and Park; typically not allowed inside the Palace (use cloakrooms if available).
• Photography without flash is generally allowed; no tripods or selfie sticks.

Accessibility

• Versailles provides wheelchair access to most areas with elevators and adapted routes.
• Disabled visitors and one companion receive free admission; bring documentation.
• Accessible facilities and staff assistance are available; check the official accessibility page for detailed routes.

Audio Guides and Apps

• The audio guide is included with Palace and Passport tickets (multiple languages).
• Consider downloading the official app for maps, routes, and updated show schedules.

Food, Water, and Restrooms

• No eating inside the Palace; water bottles are fine.
• Picnics are allowed in the Park (beyond the formal Gardens); follow posted rules.
• Cafés and kiosks are scattered around the estate; lines are longest at lunchtime-plan ahead.

Musical Fountain Show Timing

Fountain schedules vary throughout the season. Expect several activation periods during the day, with music and water displays at set times. Check the official day-by-day program before you go.

Weather and Footwear

• Versailles is vast. Wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring a light rain jacket or sun protection depending on the forecast.
• Golf carts, bikes, and the little train are available for rent in the Park (extra cost).

Getting from Paris to Versailles

Versailles is about 12-17 km southwest of central Paris. The main public transport options are:

• RER C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche: Usually the most direct for tourists; about 10 minutes’ walk to the Palace.
• Transilien N from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers: 15-20 minutes’ walk.
• Transilien L from Saint-Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite: Around 15-20 minutes’ walk.

Always validate your ticket/pass and check for weekend works on RER C. On busy days, return trains may be crowded-allow extra time back to Paris.

FAQs: Versailles Tickets and Visiting Tips

Is the Gardens ticket included with the Palace ticket?

On non-show days, the Gardens are free, so your Palace ticket is enough. On Musical Fountains/Musical Gardens days, you need a separate Gardens ticket or a Passport.

Do I really need timed entry?

Yes, for the Palace. Timed entry manages crowd flow and reduces wait times. It’s essential during peak seasons.

How long should I spend at Versailles?

Palace-only: 2-3 hours. Palace + Gardens: 4-6 hours. Full estate including Trianon: 1 full day or consider a 2-day Passport.

What does “skip-the-line” actually skip?

It typically skips the ticket purchase line but not the security line. Timed entry helps, but arrive early.

Is the Paris Museum Pass worth it for Versailles?

It includes the Palace and Trianon but not the paid Gardens on show days. If you’re visiting several Paris museums in a short time, the PMP often pays off.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

Strollers are not usually allowed inside the Palace; use cloakrooms or consider a baby carrier. Wheelchair access is available with adapted routes and priority policies.

What about evening shows?

In summer, Versailles hosts special Night Fountains Shows with fireworks (separate tickets). They’re popular-book early.

Real-World Visit: What Worked Best

On a recent summer weekend, we booked a 9:00 am Palace slot with a 1-day Passport. We entered security at 8:35 am and were inside the Hall of Mirrors by 9:25 am-still busy, but manageable. After a picnic by the Grand Canal, we explored the Petit Trianon and Queen’s Hamlet in the afternoon, then caught two rounds of the Musical Fountains. Verdict: Passport was a stress-free “all-in-one” choice and saved us from having to buy a separate Gardens ticket for the show day.

Benefits and Practical Tips (Summary)

• Passport = simple, complete access, includes garden shows when applicable.
• Palace-only = smart for short visits or non-show days.
• Book timed entry early, even for free categories and Paris Museum Pass holders.
• Arrive early and plan the Trianon Estate for the afternoon when it’s open.
• Check the fountains schedule if the shows are a priority.
• Travel light: security and Palace policies limit large items and strollers inside.

Sample Decision Guide

Conclusion: Choose Smart, Book Early, Enjoy More

Versailles is a dream day trip from Paris-but only if you plan ahead. Decide first what you want to see: just the Palace, or the full estate with the Trianon and Gardens. If you’re visiting on a Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens day, the Passport ticket is the simplest, most complete option. If your time is tight and fountains aren’t running, the Palace-only ticket is a good bet. Don’t forget to book timed entry (even for free categories and Paris Museum Pass), check the fountains schedule, and arrive early for security. With the right ticket and a smart plan, you’ll spend less time in line and more time marveling at the Hall of Mirrors, strolling the Groves, and soaking up centuries of royal history.