Skip the Line Versailles Palace, Gardens, Marie Antoinette Estate

The guide will provide a comprehensive introduction to the Palace of Versailles, ensuring guests have the historical context before entering. This introduction will take place while waiting in the security line or in the courtyard if the line moves quickly. Why did the King choose to build so far from Paris? How did a simple hunting lodge evolve into the most renowned palace of its time? More importantly, how did he use it to keep the aristocracy under his control, making them compete for even the smallest favours? We will explore the daily life, etiquette, and political strategy behind Versailles' grandeur. Once inside, guests can discover the palace at their own pace with an audio guide, allowing for a deeper, personalised experience.

Once inside, our expert guide will lead guests through the palace, offering rich insights into its history and design. As the group explore the luxurious King’s and Queen’s Apartments, they will learn about the life of Louis XIV, the "Sun King," who transformed Versailles into the dazzling symbol of his reign. The expert local guide will bring to life the intrigues and daily routines of the royal court, painting a vivid picture of court life in the 17th and 18th centuries. As you explore the luxurious King’s and Queen’s Apartments with a narrated audio guide, learn about the life of Louis XIV, the "Sun King," who transformed Versailles into the dazzling symbol of his reign. A true highlight of the tour is the Hall of Mirrors, where treaties were signed, and opulent parties were held. As you stand in this glittering gallery, surrounded by ornate mirrors and chandeliers, you will see in person the historical significance of this iconic room, where world history was made.

A true highlight of the tour is the Hall of Mirrors, where treaties were signed, and opulent parties were held. As guests stand in this glittering gallery, surrounded by ornate mirrors and chandeliers, the guide will share the historical significance of its iconic room, where world history was made.

After exploring the palace, guests will step into the Versailles Gardens, meticulously designed by André Le Nôtre. These sprawling gardens are a masterpiece of French landscape architecture, featuring fountains, sculptures, and manicured hedges. Our guide will share stories of royal celebrations and give insight into how the gardens were used as an extension of royal power and prestige. Free time for lunch - guests have choices – they can spend additional time in the Gardens and eat their own packed lunch or go to one of the vendors to pick something up. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lunch with them as the lines can be long at Versailles. You will take the Little Train to the Estate of Trianon.

Guide will accompany the guest on a guided tour of the Petite Trianon where Marie Antoinette lived. Queen Marie Antoinette cherished Le Petit Trianon, occupying it from the start of her reign as her own home. Guests will also see the Marie Antoinette's private theatre, the Queen's Theatre, located in the French gardens of the Petit Trianon in the Estate of Trianon at Versailles. After lunch, this meticulously curated tour continues with a visit to the Queen’s private estate, featuring her palace, stunning gardens, and the charming hamlet and country farm—a picturesque rustic retreat built for Marie Antoinette in 1783. Nestled in the countryside near the palace, this charming village was designed as an escape from court life, where the queen could indulge in simple pleasures. Wander through the quaint cottages, admire the idyllic lakes, and learn about Marie Antoinette’s vision of pastoral elegance.

The Estate of Trianon of Versailles - was originally commissioned as a palace getaway for kings & Queens when they needed private fresh air away from Court life. Antoinette would escape to this magical haven : a place where no one could go without her invitation. Tucked away in the park of Versailles, it still stands as though she is living, breathing, laughing and entertaining on its premises. It was built for Louis the XV’s mistress but Louis the XVI decided to give it to his wife as he had no intention to cheat on her and wanted the Domaine de Trianon to stop being associated by royal scandals.

Guests will explore the beautifully curated area where the rustic village of the Estate of Trianon - Lakeside folly commissioned by Queen Marie-Antoinette in 1783, designed to resemble a working farm. Guests will have free time to explore the farm and take photos. This is the last stop of the tour before returning back to the main Versailles Palace ae by the Petit Train. Tour will finish once the guide has walked outside of the main entrance of Versailles Palace Grounds. Guide will offer assistance to guests to get back to train station.

Enjoy an authentic French breakfast in a truly royal setting before you beat the crowds and long lines at the Palace.