Versailles, the stunning 17th-century French palace, beckons visitors with its opulent grandeur. The Skip-the-Line Guided Palace Tour offers a chance to explore this iconic royal domain without the hassle of long queues. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll discover the breathtaking State Apartments, the awe-inspiring Hall of Mirrors, and the enchanting gardens. Enjoy the captivating history and captivating tales that unfold within these hallowed walls. But that’s just the beginning – there’s more to discover at this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Points

- Guided 1.5-hour experience at the Palace of Versailles, including skip-the-line access and entry to State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and Marie Antoinette’s estate.
- Opportunity to witness the Musical Gardens and Musical Fountains shows on specified dates, enhancing the immersive experience of the royal domain.
- Knowledgeable guide provides captivating stories and insights about the palace, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of its history and grandeur.
- Includes audio headsets for clear communication, as well as a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours prior.
- Covers the expansive 2,000-acre gardens with iconic landmarks like the Grand Canal, offering a peaceful escape from the main palace.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Palace Tour offers visitors a comprehensive 1.5-hour experience at the iconic Palace of Versailles.
Priced from $78.34 per person, this tour provides skip-the-line access, a guided palace tour, and access to the gardens. Guests can explore the State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and Marie Antoinette’s estate.
The tour includes headsets, and guests can see the Musical Gardens and Musical Fountains shows on specified dates.
Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out. Cancellations up to 24 hours prior are eligible for a full refund, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Paris
The Guided Palace Tour Experience

What does the guided palace tour experience entail? The tour begins with a skip-the-line entry, allowing you to avoid the long queues. Once inside, a knowledgeable guide leads you through the opulent State Apartments and the awe-inspiring Hall of Mirrors. Headsets ensure you can hear the guide clearly as they share captivating stories about the palace’s history and its famous residents. The tour also includes access to the breathtaking gardens and grounds, as well as Marie Antoinette’s estate and Trianon. With the opportunity to witness the Musical Gardens and Musical Fountains shows, this guided experience offers a comprehensive exploration of the Versailles estate.
| Key Features | Details |
| — | — |
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Language Options | Italian, English, French, Spanish |
| Inclusions | Skip-the-line entry, guided palace tour, headsets, gardens access, Marie Antoinette’s estate and Trianon |
| Exclusions | Pets, weapons, food/drinks, large bags, selfie sticks |
| Restrictions | Baby strollers may be refused at the palace entrance |
Exploring the Expansive Gardens and Grounds

Beyond the palace’s opulent interiors, Versailles’ expansive gardens and grounds offer a serene and picturesque haven for visitors.
Spanning over 2,000 acres, the meticulously landscaped gardens feature ornate fountains, lush flower beds, and pristine walkways. Guests can stroll through the iconic Grand Canal, admire the stunning floral displays, and witness the captivating Musical Fountains and Musical Gardens shows on specified dates.
The tranquil grounds of Marie Antoinette’s estate and the Trianon palaces provide a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds.
Exploring Versailles’ expansive outdoor spaces completes the immersive experience of this magnificent royal domain.
Inclusions and Meeting Point
This guided tour includes several key inclusions to enhance the Versailles experience.
The package includes a skip-the-line entry ticket, a guided tour of the palace, and access to the gardens. Audio headsets are provided so you can hear the guide clearly.
You’ll also get entry to Marie Antoinette’s estate and the Trianon.
The meeting point is the Statue of Louis XIV in Versailles. Arrive 10 minutes early, as late arrivals may not be rescheduled or refunded.
Remember to bring your passport or ID and wear comfortable shoes.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information and Restrictions

While visiting the Versailles Palace, there are a few important restrictions to keep in mind. Pets, weapons, food/drinks, large bags, and selfie sticks are not allowed. Baby strollers may be refused at the palace entrance. Plus, the gardens are free to visit on specified days, but no musical shows take place on those days.
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
| — | — |
| Passport or ID | Pets |
| Comfortable shoes | Weapons |
| | Food/drinks |
| | Large bags |
| | Selfie sticks |
Following these guidelines will ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free visit to the magnificent Versailles Palace.
Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Paris might interest you
- Paris Private Flexible Duration Guided Tour on a Vintage Sidecar
- Eiffel Tower Reserved Access Summit or 2nd Floor Guided by Lift
- Paris Local Districts and Stories Off the Beaten Track Guided Bike Tour
- Orsay Museum Skip-the-Line Impressionists Guided Tour
- Louvre Museum – Exclusive Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)
- Paris by Night City of Lights Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Palace Tour has received impressive customer ratings, with an overall score of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on over 2,677 reviews.
Customers particularly praise the tour guides, who earn a stellar 4.8/5 rating for their informative and engaging presentations.
While the value for money rating is a solid 4.3/5, reviewers note the tour offers excellent bang for your buck, given the skip-the-line access and comprehensive experience.
Maximizing Your Versailles Experience
To maximize your Versailles experience, start by arriving early to beat the crowds and make the most of your limited time. Once inside, explore the breathtaking State Apartments, lose yourself in the Hall of Mirrors, and wander the serene gardens. To enhance your visit, consider these tips:
| Activity | Duration | Recommendation |
|———-|———-|—————-|
| Palace Tour | 1.5 hours | Arrive early, book skip-the-line tickets |
| Musical Fountains Show | 1 hour | Check schedule, arrive 30 mins early for best views |
| Marie Antoinette’s Estate | 1-2 hours | Allot time to discover her charming retreats |
| Gardens | 1-2 hours | Explore the expansive, manicured grounds |
| Grand Trianon | 1 hour | Don’t miss this elegant, lesser-known palace |
Tailor your experience to your interests and enjoy the majestic splendor of Versailles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Tickets On-Site Instead of Online?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on-site, but it’s recommended to purchase online to skip the long queues. Online booking also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. However, visitors can purchase tickets online in advance to skip the lines and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
Can I Use My Paris Museum Pass for This Tour?
No, the Paris Museum Pass can’t be used for this guided Versailles palace tour. The tour includes skip-the-line access and a live guide, which aren’t covered by the museum pass, so you’ll need to purchase the tour separately.
How Long Does It Take to See the Entire Versailles Estate?
The entire Versailles estate covers over 2,000 acres, and it can take visitors several hours to explore the palace, gardens, and additional sites like Marie Antoinette’s estate. Most guided tours are around 1.5 hours and provide access to the key highlights.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Palace and Gardens?
Photography is generally allowed inside the Palace of Versailles and its gardens, but visitors can’t use selfie sticks or tripods. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide for specific guidelines.
The Sum Up
This guided tour of Versailles provides a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to skip the lines and explore the palace’s iconic State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and expansive gardens. With knowledgeable guides, audio headsets, and access to Marie Antoinette’s estate, it’s an efficient and informative way to take in the grandeur of this historic royal domain. Visitors can also enjoy the captivating Musical Gardens shows while avoiding long queues for a seamless and memorable visit to Versailles.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Dining Experiences in Paris
- Paris: Immersive Fine Dining Meets Art in an Ancient Cinema
- French Gourmet Cuisine: Dinner and Wine Pairing
- Paris Theo Boat Seine River Italian Trattoria Style Dinner Cruise
- Paris Moulin Rouge Dinner Show
- Paris Late Lunch at Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie Restaurant
- Eiffel Tower Dinner Experience and Sightseeing Seine River Cruise
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Paris
- Bruges Highlights, Boat, Beer, Chocolate Day trip from Paris
- Paris Le Marais Hidden Gems Small Group Tour with Cruise Option
- Paris Evening Bike Tour with 1-hour Seine River Cruise
- Paris Covered Passages Walking Tour plus Seine Cruise Option
- Paris City Tour by Coach with Sightseeing Seine River Cruise
- Paris Private Night Tour with River Cruise and Champagne Option
More Tour Reviews in Paris
- Paris: Complete Historical & Cultural Immersion (2 Days)
- Paris Day Trip with Eurostar and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
- Paris Montmartre & Sacre Coeur Semi-Private Guided Tour 12pp
- Europe: Train of Thoughts A Philosophical Journey on Rails
- Paris: Immersive Fine Dining Meets Art in an Ancient Cinema
- Bruges Highlights, Boat, Beer, Chocolate Day trip from Paris
Still browsing? Here are more Paris experiences we've covered recently
- Which Paris Workshops & Classes To Choose? We Rank The 14 Best
- The 11 Most Popular Full-Day Tours In Paris
- Paris’s 14 Best Wine Tours: Which To Choose?
- Which Paris Historical Tours To Choose? Our Best 14 Picks
- Paris’s 14 Top Tours (With Prices)
- Our 14 Favorite Paris Tours & Experiences
- The 14 Best Walking Tours In Paris
- Paris’s 10 Top Lunch Experiences (With Prices)
- 7 Best Cooking Classes In Paris
- The 8 Best Drinking Tours In Paris
- Our 5 Favorite Paris Shopping & Market Tours
- Paris’s 14 Top Photography Experiences
