Step Into Royalty: A Day as a Prince or Princess at Versailles

A visit to the Palace of Versailles is more than just a historical tour—it’s a journey back in time to the height of French royal luxury. Located just outside Paris, this UNESCO World Heritage site was once the residence of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, and later, Marie Antoinette. A symbol of absolute monarchy, Versailles offers visitors a chance to experience the opulence of the French court. The Palace of Versailles is famous for its grand architecture and iconic rooms, particularly the Hall of Mirrors. This nearly 73-meter-long hall is lined with 357 mirrors that reflect light from the arched windows overlooking the palace gardens. The ceiling is adorned with paintings glorifying Louis XIV, and the room served as the setting for many royal events. Fun fact: It was also here that the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919, ending World War I. Beyond the palace, the Gardens of Versailles are a masterpiece of landscape design. Spanning nearly 2,000 acres, the gardens feature fountains, sculptures, and neatly trimmed pathways that reflect Louis XIV’s vision of taming nature to symbolize his power. A highlight is the Grand Canal, a 1.6-kilometer-long waterway where the royal family once held boating parties. Today, visitors can rent rowboats to enjoy the same experience. During the Musical Fountain Show, the fountains dance to classical music, adding a magical touch to your visit. Tucked away within the palace grounds is Marie Antoinette’s Estate, a quieter and more personal side of Versailles. The estate includes the Petit Trianon, a smaller palace where the queen would escape the formalities of court life. Here, she also created the Hameau de la Reine, a charming village designed to look like a countryside hamlet, complete with a farmhouse, mill, and gardens. This retreat was Marie Antoinette’s way of experiencing a simple, rural life—at least in her own romanticized way. Getting to Versailles from Paris is simple. The RER C train takes about 40 minutes, and from the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the palace. With its rich history and stunning beauty, a day at Versailles offers an unforgettable glimpse into the royal past of France. One important thing to note is that the tickets for the Palace and the Gardens are sold separately. While the palace showcases the grandeur of royal life, the gardens are a must-see in their own right, offering stunning landscapes and serene walks. If you’re short on time, be sure to prioritize what matters most to you, but for a full Versailles experience, both are worth exploring. After your visit, don’t miss the chance to treat yourself like royalty at Ladurée, located within the palace grounds. Famous for its macarons and elegant pastries, Ladurée offers the perfect indulgence to top off your princess-like day. Sitting down for tea and macarons in such a regal setting will make you feel like true royalty. #100waysoftravel #paris #versailles