Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris for a picturesque day trip to the magnificent Palace of Versailles. Set out on a bike tour that takes you through the stunning royal grounds, allowing you to discover Marie Antoinette’s private hamlet and the serene gardens. With timed entry to the palace, you’ll have the chance to learn about its rich history and breathtaking architecture, uncovering the stories that lie within its opulent halls. Get ready to experience the grandeur of Versailles like never before.

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Key Points

Guided tour begins at Le Peloton Café in Paris and includes a 30-minute train journey to Versailles.
Participants explore the Versailles farmers market, sampling local produce and artisanal cheeses.
The group bikes through the royal grounds and gardens, stopping for a picnic lunch at the Grand Canal.
Visitors discover Marie Antoinette’s private hamlet and the neoclassical Petit Trianon, learning about 18th-century French history.
Timed entry tickets provide access to the Palace of Versailles, with audio guides offering insights into the history and architecture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Train Travel

The tour begins at Le Peloton Café in Paris, where participants gather at 8:15 AM to meet their guide.

Together, the group takes the train to Versailles, enjoying the 30-minute journey with the guide providing commentary.

Upon arrival, they explore the Versailles farmers market, where the guide shares local food recommendations.

This train travel and introduction to the Versailles market sets the stage for the day’s immersive bike tour through the royal grounds and gardens.

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Visiting the Versailles Farmers Market

Upon arriving at Versailles, the group heads to the local farmers market.

The guide leads the way, pointing out fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and regional specialties. Participants are encouraged to sample the wares and get recommendations for the best picnic items.

The guide shares insights into Versailles’ culinary heritage, explaining how the royal family sourced ingredients from this very market.

The royal family sourced ingredients for their meals from the very Versailles farmers market visited by the group.

With the guide’s insider tips, the group gathers a delightful spread of local delicacies to enjoy later by the Grand Canal.

The lively market visit whets their appetite for the sights and flavors of Versailles.

Biking Through the Royal Grounds and Gardens

After gathering provisions at the Versailles farmers market, the group sets off on their bikes to explore the royal grounds and gardens. They weave through sculptural hedges and grand fountains, marveling at the immense scale of the palace’s expansive gardens. A table outlines key sights along the way:

| Sight | Description |

|——-|————|

| Grand Canal | Sprawling rectangular body of water where the group stops for a picnic lunch. |

| Petit Trianon | Marie Antoinette’s private chateau, featuring a classical French garden. |

| Queen’s Hamlet | Quaint village where the queen played at being a peasant. |

| Orangery | Ornate greenhouse displaying citrus trees and exotic plants. |

Exploring Marie Antoinette’s Private Hamlet and Petit Trianon

What does the bike tour group discover as they explore Marie Antoinette’s private hamlet and Petit Trianon?

The guide leads them through the quaint village where the Queen of France once lived. The group wanders down cobblestone paths, past thatched-roof cottages, and a working farm.

They marvel at the Queen’s private château, the Petit Trianon, a neoclassical retreat where she could escape the formality of Versailles. The guide explains how Marie Antoinette used this secluded spot to indulge her pastoral fantasies, surrounded by the rural tranquility she craved.

This intimate look into the Queen’s private world provides a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century French history.

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Enjoying a Picnic by the Grand Canal

The bike tour group now makes their way to the Grand Canal, a magnificent waterway that winds through the gardens of Versailles.

They stop to enjoy a leisurely picnic by the serene waters, taking in the stunning views of the palace and its well-manicured grounds.

The guide provides local food recommendations and suggests finding a peaceful spot along the canal to rest and refuel.

After the picnic, the group has free time to further explore the gardens and Marie Antoinette’s hamlet before reconvening to head inside the palace with their timed entry tickets.

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Exploring the Palace of Versailles With an Audio Guide

With timed entry tickets in hand, the tour group makes their way into the magnificent Palace of Versailles.

They’re provided with audio guides to enhance their exploration of the palace’s grand halls, lavish apartments, and ornate details. The audio guides offer insights into the history, architecture, and significance of each room, allowing the visitors to discover the palace at their own pace.

As they wander through the opulent galleries and chambers, they can pause to admire the intricate artwork, gilded furnishings, and stunning chandeliers that capture the grandeur of Versailles.

The audio guides ensure an immersive and informative experience.

Tour Inclusions and Important Information

Although the Bike Tour to Versailles covers an extensive itinerary, the tour company ensures all necessary inclusions are provided. The tour includes round-trip train tickets, timed entry to the palace and gardens, a guided tour with an English-speaking guide, and bicycle rentals. Participants should note the tours operate rain or shine, and a minimum of 4 people is required. Those unable to ride a bike may not be able to participate. Plus, the tour allows skip-the-line access through a separate entrance to the Palace of Versailles.

| Inclusions | Transportation | Admission |

|————|—————-|———–|

| Guided Tour | Train Tickets | Palace |

| Bike Rental | Guide | Gardens |

| Food/Drinks | – | Hamlet |

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers who’ve experienced the Bike Tour to Versailles seem overwhelmingly satisfied, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 150 reviews.

The tour guide received a stellar 4.7 rating, praised for excellent knowledge. Transportation scored an impressive 4.8, highlighting the seamless train travel to Versailles.

While the value for money rating was 4.5, reviewers noted the tour offered an enjoyable and informative experience.

As one customer from New Zealand remarked, the tour with guide David was "exceptional," while an Australian reviewer called it a "fantastic day trip" with an "extremely knowledgeable guide."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead of Renting One?

You can bring your own bike, but it’s not recommended. The tour includes bike rental, so you’ll have a bike that’s suitable for the terrain. Using the provided bike ensures you can keep up with the group.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not offer specific discounts for children or seniors. However, children under 5 are free. Seniors may be eligible for reduced palace entrance fees, but this is not included in the tour package price.

What Kind of Food Is Typically Served at the Picnic?

The picnic typically includes local French specialties like cheese, bread, charcuterie, and seasonal produce. Travelers can enjoy a relaxing meal by the Grand Canal at Versailles, taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Can I Explore the Palace on My Own After the Guided Tour?

Yes, after the guided bike tour, participants have free time to explore the Palace of Versailles on their own using an audio guide. This allows them to further discover the palace at their own pace.

Are There Any Restroom or Dining Facilities During the Tour?

There are restroom facilities available during the tour, and participants have free time to explore the palace and visit the on-site dining options after the guided portion. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

This Versailles bike tour from Paris offers a unique and immersive way to explore the magnificent royal estate. With timed entry to the Palace, you’ll avoid crowds and have the freedom to discover the stunning gardens, charming Marie Antoinette’s hamlet, and the opulent palace interiors at your own pace. It’s a memorable day trip that combines history, nature, and local culinary delights for a truly unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: