Versailles

Location

Versailles, located in the Île-de-France region, is a famous city in the western suburbs of Paris, France. It's just 10.6 miles away from the French capital, making it an essential part of the bustling metropolitan area. Versailles holds a significant place in European history, with its grand Palace of Versailles being a symbol of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime.

URL

http://www.versailles.fr/

History and Culture

Versailles holds a prestigious position in European history. The city is renowned for its majestic Palace of Versailles, which was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 until 1789. The palace and its gardens are decorated with an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts, including the famous Hall of Mirrors. The city is also home to several notable cultural events like the Musical Fountains Show and the Royal Serenade.

Average Length of Visit

Most visitors typically spend 6-10 hours here to explore the palace and its vast gardens.

Highlights

• The Palace of Versailles: An architectural masterpiece with grand rooms and a vast collection of art.
• The Gardens of Versailles: Known for its geometrical alignment of bushes, flowers, and trees.
• The Hall of Mirrors: A stunning gallery within the palace, adorned with 357 mirrors.
• The Royal Chapel: Last major building work carried out at the Palace of Versailles.
• The Grand Trianon: A smaller palace nestled in the heart of the royal gardens.

Day-Trip Ideas

• Paris (10.6 miles, approximately 40 minutes by car or 20 minutes by train): Home to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Giverny (43 miles, approximately 1 hour by car or 1 hour and 30 minutes by train): Visit the charming home of Claude Monet and the gardens that inspired his paintings.
• Chartres (50 miles, approximately 1 hour by car or 1 hour and 20 minutes by train): Discover its famous Gothic cathedral.
• Rouen (88 miles, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or 1 hour 20 minutes by train): Known for its stunning cathedral and Joan of Arc history.

Transportation

The nearest airport to Versailles is Paris Orly Airport, around 15 miles away. Versailles is well connected by train, with the Versailles Château Rive Gauche being the closest station to the Palace. You can also use buses, trams, and taxis for local transportation.

Accommodations

Versailles offers a range of accommodation options. You'll find luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and plenty of Airbnb rentals. Depending on the season and location, a night's stay can range from $50 for a basic hostel to upwards of $200 for a high-end hotel.

Food and Drink

Versailles has an array of dining options to suit all budgets. Explore local markets, bistros, and cafés for affordable meals. Traditional dishes and drinks to try:

• Crêpes: Thin, pancake-like pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
• Escargot: Snails cooked in butter and garlic, a French delicacy.
• Coq au Vin: Chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and garlic.
• Champagne: The iconic French sparkling wine.

Safety

Versailles is generally a safe city to visit. However, like any popular tourist destination, it pays to be cautious of your belongings. The most common scams to be aware of are:

• 'Gold Ring' scam: Someone might pretend to find a gold ring near you and offer to sell it. Politely decline and walk away.
• 'Petition' scam: Scammers may ask you to sign a petition and then demand a donation. It's best to avoid such interactions.

Climate and Weather

Versailles has a temperate oceanic climate. The summers (June - August) are warm, with temperatures around 70°F, while winters (December - February) can be cold, with temperatures dipping to around 40°F. Spring and fall see mild weather, making these seasons an ideal time to visit.

Cost

Versailles is a moderately expensive city, mirroring the cost of living in the Parisian region. Expect to budget around $200-$250 per day, covering transportation, accommodation, food, and entry fees to various sites.

Currency

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available.

Primary Languages

French is the primary language spoken here. However, English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

Miscellaneous

It's customary in France to greet shopkeepers when entering and leaving stores. It's considered polite and is part of the local culture.