MacQueen

• https://en.chateauversailles.fr/
• RER C (line C) from Paris Gare d’Austerlitz or the code “VICK”
• 4 / hour. 40 minutes.
• You can also use a Navigo Easy card loaded with Metro-Train-RER tickets, a Navigo weekly/monthly pass (zones 1–4 or 1–5), or Paris Visite if it covers the zones.
• buy a four-zone all-day Easy pass
• Buy tickets at the green Île-de-France Mobilités machines in the station (they have English options), at ticket windows, or via the Île-de-France Mobilités / Bonjour RATP app.
• Validate your ticket before boarding and keep it until you exit at Versailles. The station is a short walk (about 10 minutes) from the Palace of Versailles.
• skip the Trianon/Domaine, which is a hefty 30-minute hike (each way) from the Château.
• As you enter the Château, you’ll find an information desk (get a map) and bag check. Follow the crowds directly across the courtyard, where you’ll go back inside. If you haven’t already downloaded the official Versailles app, line up here for your free (and worth-the-wait) audioguide. Now make your way to the start of our tour.

Here’s a practical and well-paced Versailles itinerary for most visitors.

Recommended Full-Day Itinerary (6–7 hours)

This is the best way to experience the main highlights without feeling completely exhausted.

| Time          | Activity                                      | Duration | Notes |
|---------------|-----------------------------------------------|----------|-------|
| 8:45–9:00 | Arrive & clear security                      | 15 min  | Aim for an early timed slot (9:00 or 9:30 AM) |
| 9:00–11:00| Palace (Hall of Mirrors + State Apartments) | 2 hrs   | Start here while crowds are lowest |
| 11:00–11:30| Royal Chapel + quick terrace views          | 30 min  | |
| 11:30–12:30| Lunch                                        | 1 hr    | Picnic in the park or café near the Grand Canal |
| 12:30–14:00| Gardens (main axis + a few groves)      | 1.5 hrs | Walk or take the little train part of the way |
| 14:00–16:30| Trianon Estate                           | 2.5 hrs | Grand Trianon → Petit Trianon → Queen’s Hamlet |
| 16:30–17:00| Return / final photos                        | 30 min  | Exit via the gardens |

Half-Day Itinerary (4–5 hours)

Ideal if you’re short on time:

Palace (Hall of Mirrors + State Apartments) – 2 hours  
Gardens (main perspective + Latona & Apollo fountains) – 1.5–2 hours  
Skip the Trianon Estate

Key Tips for a Smooth Visit
Book a timed entry** for the Palace as early as possible (especially with the Paris Museum Pass).
Start with the Palace first — it gets much more crowded later.
The Trianon Estate (including Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet) opens at 12:00 and is quieter in the afternoon.
Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll walk a lot.
Download the official Versailles app for maps and free audio guides.