Palace of Versailles Tickets (2026)

Tour Options at Versailles

The Palace of Versailles offers several ways to explore its magnificent interiors and grounds with expert guidance:

Included audioguide: Every Palace ticket includes a free audioguide available in 11 languages (French, English, Spanish, Italian, German, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Polish). It covers the State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and Royal Chapel with detailed commentary on the history and art of each room.

Guided tours of restricted areas: The Palace offers official guided tours that give access to areas not included in the standard audioguide route, such as the Royal Opera, the King's Private Apartments, Marie-Antoinette's Private Chambers, and the Chapel. These tours last 1.5 hours and are available in French and English. They require a separate ticket in addition to the Palace entry.

Private guided tours: Licensed tour operators offer private guided tours tailored to your interests. A private guide can take you through the Palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate, providing personalised commentary on the architecture, art, and court life of the Sun King.

Garden tours: During the Musical Fountains season (April-October), specialised garden tours explain the symbolism of the fountains, the work of landscape architect André Le Nôtre, and the hydraulic engineering that powers the water features.

Types of Tours

Choose the tour that suits your visit

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Audioguide Tour

Included free with every Palace ticket. Self-paced tour of the State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and Royal Chapel in 11 languages. Pick up at the entrance.

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Guided Palace Tour

Official 1.5-hour guided tours of restricted areas including the Royal Opera, King's Private Apartments, and Marie-Antoinette's Chambers. In French and English.

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Private Tour

Personalised experience with a licensed guide covering the Palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate. Tailored to your interests. Ideal for families and small groups.

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Garden Tour

Specialised tours of the 800-hectare gardens during Musical Fountains season. Learn about Le Nôtre's design, fountain symbolism, and the Grand Canal.

Tour FAQ

Questions about Versailles guided tours

Is the audioguide really free?

Yes, the audioguide is included at no extra cost with every Palace ticket (€21). Simply pick it up at the audioguide desk as you enter the Palace. It is available in 11 languages and covers the State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and Royal Chapel. Return it as you exit.

Can I visit the Royal Opera without a guided tour?

The Royal Opera is generally only accessible via an official guided tour, as it is not part of the standard visitor route. These guided tours also cover other restricted areas like the King's Private Apartments. Check the Versailles website for current tour schedules and availability.

Are there tours for children?

Yes, the Palace offers family-oriented activities and workshops for children, especially during school holidays. Private guides can create child-friendly itineraries with stories about kings, queens, and court life. The audioguide has content suitable for older children. The gardens and Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet are particularly engaging for younger visitors.

How long does a full guided tour take?

Official guided tours of restricted areas last 1.5 hours. Private tours can be customised from 2 to 6 hours, depending on whether you include only the Palace or also the gardens and Trianon Estate. A comprehensive private tour of everything typically takes 4-5 hours. After any guided tour, you are free to continue exploring on your own.

Palace of Versailles Guided Tours