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Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour
Versailles, Île-de-France, France, Europe
$129.90
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after
they redeem the gift voucher.
Overview
Explore Versailles on this relaxed 6–7 hour small-group (14 ppl max) tour with Alistair, a native English-speaking expert guide and Versailles specialist. Enjoy a blend of a little train ride and walking tour through the Versailles Gardens, Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet, and the Palace of Versailles, brought to life with captivating stories and expert insights into French history and the Revolution. Perfect for families & history buffs.
• Guided highlights tour of the Versailles Gardens (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)
• Guided highlights tour of Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet and farm
• Skip the queues with timed-entry Palace tickets, and enjoy expert insights into the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the magnificent State Apartments, and the dazzling Hall of Mirrors.
• Little Train ride to discover hidden gems without the long walk
• Relax at La Petite Venise & Angelina cafés—snacks, lunch, restrooms. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free & other dietary options available.
• Guided highlights tour of the Versailles Gardens (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)
• Guided highlights tour of Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet and farm
• Skip the queues with timed-entry Palace tickets, and enjoy expert insights into the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the magnificent State Apartments, and the dazzling Hall of Mirrors.
• Little Train ride to discover hidden gems without the long walk
• Relax at La Petite Venise & Angelina cafés—snacks, lunch, restrooms. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free & other dietary options available.
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Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour
Tour guide
Language: English
Human tour guide
- Hop-On Hop-Off Train Ticket in Versailles Gardens
- Expert, native English-speaking professional guide
- Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet Ticket and Guided Tour
- Maximum group size of 14 guests for a more personalised tour
- Timed entry Palace of Versailles Ticket for self-guided exploration, avoiding the long queues
- Versailles Gardens Admission Ticket with Guided Tour (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)
- Snacks and Lunch
- Rain jackets
- Guests are required to arrange their own transportation to Versailles
Meeting point
Alistair will be outside Brasserie du Musée (Restaurant) at 2 Place Léon Gambetta, 78000, ready for your Tour from 9:15 AM. It's near the Palace of Versailles. He will have your tickets, so look for his green backpack! The tour starts at 9:30 AM.
Return details
The tour finishes at the Palace, where Alistair shares an overview of the key highlights—the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the State Apartments, and the Hall of Mirrors—before guests begin their self-guided exploration.
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Encounter Louis XIV, the illustrious Sun King, and the majestic Palace of Versailles, which he transformed from a simple hunting lodge into a magnificent royal palace. Construction began in 1661 and took over 50 years, with every detail reflecting his grand vision.
- Explore the captivating French garden design style created by André Le Nôtre at Versailles in the 17th century, which set the standard for the French garden aesthetic. Showcasing formal symmetry and geometric layouts, these gardens embody the grandeur of the French Baroque style and reflect the artistry behind these stunning landscapes. (pass by)
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L'OrangerieLouis XIV, known for his larger-than-life personality and ambitious vision, surrounded himself with brilliant architects, artists, and gardeners to realize his grand ideas, such as the construction of the L'Orangerie at Versailles to cultivate exotic citrus fruits. Its thick walls protect these delicate plants from freezing temperatures, highlighting Louis XIV's dedication to innovation in both gardening and architecture.
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Discover how Louis XIV wielded power through design, using architecture and art to assert his authority, as exemplified by the Latona Fountain, symbolizing his divine right to rule.
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Grand CanalAs we gaze upon the Grand Canal from the Palace of Versailles, witness the enchanting classical French formal garden style, which emphasizes symmetry, order, and a beautiful balance between nature and architecture. This picturesque scene, meticulously landscaped to embody Louis XIV's grand vision, showcases the artistry and thoughtful planning behind this remarkable estate, inspiring all who visit.
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Welcome to the Ballroom Grove, or "La Salle de Bal," an enchanting space at the Palace of Versailles where Louis XIV often entertained guests, showcasing his passion for dance and the arts. This beautifully designed area features elaborate landscaping and a stunning fountain, which served as a backdrop for the king's grand performances, during which he famously dressed as the sun god Apollo, embodying the essence of his reign.
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As we approach the Bassin du Miroir, or Mirror Basin, you'll encounter a striking feature of the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, ingeniously designed to reflect the grandeur of the surrounding landscape. Positioned in front of the iconic Grand Canal, this rectangular pond captures the vibrant sky, majestic trees, and ornate palace architecture, beautifully showcasing the harmony of nature and design.
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As we enter the Colonnade Grove, you'll be greeted by a stunning series of classical columns that create a striking architectural framework, surrounded by elegant fountains and meticulously curated plantings. Designed as a serene retreat for Louis XIV and his court, this beautiful space offers a peaceful escape from the palace's formalities, allowing them to relax and enjoy leisurely pursuits amidst the beauty of nature.
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As we approach the Apollo Fountain, or "Bassin d'Apollon," you will discover one of the most iconic features of the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, depicting the sun god Apollo emerging from the waters in a chariot drawn by four majestic horses. Surrounded by intricate sculptures of sea creatures and allegorical figures, this stunning fountain symbolizes Louis XIV's divine association as the Sun King and serves as a breathtaking centerpiece that beautifully integrates water, art, and nature.
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Welcome to the Bosquet d'Encelade, a captivating grove within the gardens of the Palace of Versailles that intricately weaves Greek mythology into its design, named after the giant Enceladus. The central fountain showcases dramatic sculptures depicting his defeat at the hands of Athena and Zeus, symbolizing the triumph of divine order over chaos in this mythical space where art and storytelling converge for a truly unique experience.
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Terrasses de la Petite Venise is a charming café situated in the gardens of Versailles, offering a delightful selection of pastries, expertly brewed coffees, and delicious sandwiches. Guests can enjoy their treats on the beautiful outdoor terrace while taking in the scenic surroundings, with convenient restroom facilities nearby for estate visitors. Adjacent to the café, you'll find the hop-on hop-off train, providing easy access back to the Palace of Versailles (3rd stop) after visiting the Petit Trianon (2nd stop), the hamlet of Marie-Antoinette. Tickets for the hop-on hop-off train are included and will be organized by Alistair.
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Le Petit TrianonThe Petit Trianon served as a cherished retreat for Marie Antoinette, offering her an escape from the formalities of court life. She transformed its gardens into a pastoral haven, creating a charming "hamlet" reminiscent of a quaint Austrian peasant village, complete with rustic buildings, a farm, and picturesque landscapes. This unexpected setting, akin to a scene from Disney World, embodied her desire for simplicity and tranquility, providing a private sanctuary where she could unwind and embrace a more natural lifestyle away from the strictures of royal expectations.
- The Grand Trianon, the first stop on the hop-on hop-off train, is a beautiful retreat built for Louis XIV, showcasing stunning architecture and tranquil gardens that provide a glimpse into the royal lifestyle. (pass by)
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Palace of VersaillesThe Palace of Versailles, created by Louis XIV, the Sun King, is a stunning representation of absolute monarchy, featuring the renowned Hall of Mirrors, opulent ballrooms, and the private chambers of the king. With their timed entry tickets, visitors can effortlessly explore the grandeur of this historic palace and its exquisite architecture, rich history, and intricate details.
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01
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You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
02
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We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
03
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Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour
Versailles, Île-de-France, France, Europe
$129.90
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after
they redeem the gift voucher.
How it works?
01
—
You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
02
—
We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
03
—
Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!