Versailles with kids
A visit to the opulent Palace of Versailles and its stunning gardens is one of the most popular things to do in Paris. Versailles is a top attraction not only for the pomp and luxury of the palace but also for the marvellous grounds in which the palace is set. The endless halls of the palace are truly sumptuous but can be a little overwhelming, so is Versailles a good place for the kids? Are there things to do for children at Versailles? In short there is so much to do just in the gardens that you will be spoilt for choice!
Top tips to enjoy your trip to Versailles with children:
• Book your tickets in advance online, then you just have to pick them up on the day of your visit. Be prepared there will be a queue. The good news is that visiting Versailles is free for kids under 18, although a booking is still required.
• Pick your days carefully as the palace is always busy during the summer season – we suggest visiting during the week as the weekends can be busy with locals. Remember Versailles is closed on Mondays.
• Take plenty of snacks, they come in handy if you have to queue at any point and will help keep energy levels up. There are cafés and snack bars dotted around the palace and the grounds, the quality might not be top notch and the prices are seriously marked up for tourists. We recommend a stock of snacks and also taking a picnic as there are literally thousands of acres of parkland where you can kick back, relax and have lunch.
• Wear comfortable shoes and take plasters for blisters as you will be doing a lot of walking. The grounds of the palace are huge; from the palace to the Trianon is around 1.5km and around 30 mins on foot, whilst the far end of the grand canal is a good hour on foot (3.5km).
• Sunscreen and hats are a must, if you are visiting in the summer. You will probably spend more time in the gardens and at the lake than you imagine and you will certainly turn pink after an hour or two exploring.