(800) 814 COOL Questions? Call Us Now!

Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour

88 Reviews 4.97 out of 5 stars Based on 88 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Versailles, France

Loading Options

6 to 7 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore Versailles on this relaxed 6–7 hour small-group (14 ppl max) tour with Alistair, a native English-speaking expert guide and Versailles specialist. Enjoy a blend of a little train ride and walking tour through the Versailles Gardens, Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet, and the Palace of Versailles, brought to life with captivating stories and expert insights into French history and the Revolution. Perfect for families and history buffs.

• Guided Highlights Tour of the Versailles Gardens (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)

• Guided highlights tour of Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet and farm

• Skip the queues with timed-entry Palace tickets, and enjoy expert insights into the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the magnificent State Apartments, and the dazzling Hall of Mirrors.

• Little Train ride to discover hidden gems without the long walk

• Relax at La Petite Venise & Angelina cafés—for snacks, lunch & restrooms

What's Included

  • Maximum group size of 14 guests for a more personalised tour
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Train Ticket in Versailles Gardens
  • Expert, native English-speaking professional guide
  • Guests are required to arrange their own transportation to Versailles
  • Rain jackets
  • Snacks and Lunch
See 3 moreSee 4 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Place Léon Gambetta
78000 Versailles, France

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Place d'Armes
78000 Versailles, France

The tour finishes at the Palace, where Alistair shares an overview of the key highlights—the Royal Chapel, Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber, the State Apartments, and the Hall of Mirrors—before guests begin their self-guided exploration.

What To Expect

Honour Gate

Encounter Louis XIV, the illustrious Sun King, and the majestic Palace of Versailles, which he transformed from a simple hunting lodge into a magnificent royal palace. Construction began in 1661 and took over 50 years, with every detail reflecting his grand vision.
Read more

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Jardins du Chateau de Versailles (Pass By)

Explore the captivating French garden design style created by André Le Nôtre at Versailles in the 17th century, which set the standard for the French garden aesthetic. Showcasing formal symmetry and geometric layouts, these gardens embody the grandeur of the French Baroque style and reflect the artistry behind these stunning landscapes.
Read more

L'Orangerie

Louis XIV, known for his larger-than-life personality and ambitious vision, surrounded himself with brilliant architects, artists, and gardeners to realize his grand ideas, such as the construction of the L'Orangerie at Versailles to cultivate exotic citrus fruits. Its thick walls protect these delicate plants from freezing temperatures, highlighting Louis XIV's dedication to innovation in both gardening and architecture.
Read more

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Latona Fountain

Discover how Louis XIV wielded power through design, using architecture and art to assert his authority, as exemplified by the Latona Fountain, symbolizing his divine right to rule.
Read more

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Grand Canal

As we gaze upon the Grand Canal from the Palace of Versailles, witness the enchanting classical French formal garden style, which emphasizes symmetry, order, and a beautiful balance between nature and architecture. This picturesque scene, meticulously landscaped to embody Louis XIV's grand vision, showcases the artistry and thoughtful planning behind this remarkable estate, inspiring all who visit.
Read more

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Ballroom Grove

Welcome to the Ballroom Grove, or "La Salle de Bal," an enchanting space at the Palace of Versailles where Louis XIV often entertained guests, showcasing his passion for dance and the arts. This beautifully designed area features elaborate landscaping and a stunning fountain, which served as a backdrop for the king's grand performances, during which he famously dressed as the sun god Apollo, embodying the essence of his reign.
Read more

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Bassin du Miroir

As we approach the Bassin du Miroir, or Mirror Basin, you'll encounter a striking feature of the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, ingeniously designed to reflect the grandeur of the surrounding landscape. Positioned in front of the iconic Grand Canal, this rectangular pond captures the vibrant sky, majestic trees, and ornate palace architecture, beautifully showcasing the harmony of nature and design.
Read more

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Colonnade Grove

As we enter the Colonnade Grove, you'll be greeted by a stunning series of classical columns that create a striking architectural framework, surrounded by elegant fountains and meticulously curated plantings. Designed as a serene retreat for Louis XIV and his court, this beautiful space offers a peaceful escape from the palace's formalities, allowing them to relax and enjoy leisurely pursuits amidst the beauty of nature.
Read more

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Apollo Fountain

As we approach the Apollo Fountain, or "Bassin d'Apollon," you will discover one of the most iconic features of the gardens at the Palace of Versailles, depicting the sun god Apollo emerging from the waters in a chariot drawn by four majestic horses. Surrounded by intricate sculptures of sea creatures and allegorical figures, this stunning fountain symbolizes Louis XIV's divine association as the Sun King and serves as a breathtaking centerpiece that beautifully integrates water, art, and nature.
Read more

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Bosquet de L'encelade

Welcome to the Bosquet d'Encelade, a captivating grove within the gardens of the Palace of Versailles that intricately weaves Greek mythology into its design, named after the giant Enceladus. The central fountain showcases dramatic sculptures depicting his defeat at the hands of Athena and Zeus, symbolizing the triumph of divine order over chaos in this mythical space where art and storytelling converge for a truly unique experience.
Read more

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Les Terrasses de la Petite Venise

Terrasses de la Petite Venise is a charming café situated in the gardens of Versailles, offering a delightful selection of pastries, expertly brewed coffees, and delicious sandwiches. Guests can enjoy their treats on the beautiful outdoor terrace while taking in the scenic surroundings, with convenient restroom facilities nearby for estate visitors.Adjacent to the café, you'll find the hop-on hop-off train, providing easy access back to the Palace of Versailles (3rd stop) after visiting the Petit Trianon (2nd stop), the hamlet of Marie-Antoinette. Tickets for the hop-on hop-off train are included and will be organized by Alistair.
Read more

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Le Petit Trianon

The Petit Trianon served as a cherished retreat for Marie Antoinette, offering her an escape from the formalities of court life. She transformed its gardens into a pastoral haven, creating a charming "hamlet" reminiscent of a quaint Austrian peasant village, complete with rustic buildings, a farm, and picturesque landscapes. This unexpected setting, akin to a scene from Disney World, embodied her desire for simplicity and tranquility, providing a private sanctuary where she could unwind and embrace a more natural lifestyle away from the strictures of royal expectations.
Read more

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

The Grand Trianon (Pass By)

The Grand Trianon, the first stop on the hop-on hop-off train, is a beautiful retreat built for Louis XIV, showcasing stunning architecture and tranquil gardens that provide a glimpse into the royal lifestyle.
Read more

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles, created by Louis XIV, the Sun King, is a stunning representation of absolute monarchy, featuring the renowned Hall of Mirrors, opulent ballrooms, and the private chambers of the king. With their skip-the-line timed entry tickets, visitors can effortlessly explore the grandeur of this historic palace and its exquisite architecture, rich history, and intricate details.
Read more

1 hour 15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Show 12 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • This 1.5-mile walk is downhill and is not suitable for mobility walkers, wheelchair users or individuals with canes
  • This 1.5-mile walk is downhill and is not suitable for strollers or small children (+7 years old only)

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Versailles, Gardens & Hamlet: Full-Day Guided Small-Group Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5534402P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.97
88 reviews

Average 4.97 out of 5 stars based on 88 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
85
4 stars
3
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

Loading Options

Similar Tours & Activities

Versailles Palace Guided Experience and Gardens Entry 10 PPL Max

Versailles Palace Guided Experience and Gardens Entry 10 PPL Max

 100 to 120 minutes  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$166.36

Family Friendly Tour of Versailles

Family Friendly Tour of Versailles

1
 2 hours  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$311.17

Official Paris Guide Versailles Palace Hall of Mirrors Tour

Official Paris Guide Versailles Palace Hall of Mirrors Tour

1
 2 hours  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$83.54

Versailles Golf Cart Guided Tour + Romantic Boat with Champagne

Versailles Golf Cart Guided Tour + Romantic Boat with Champagne

9
 5 hours  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$202.26

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Versailles Palace Guided Tour with Reserved Entry

Versailles Palace Guided Tour with Reserved Entry

 90 to 150 minutes  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$80.19

Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour from Paris

Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour from Paris

 180 to 210 minutes  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$95.69

From Paris: Versailles Palace Live Tour with Gardens Access

From Paris: Versailles Palace Live Tour with Gardens Access

 4 to 6 hours  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$130.45

Versailles Royal Palace & Gardens Private Tour by Golf Cart
Likely to Sell Out

Versailles Royal Palace & Gardens Private Tour by Golf Cart

 3 hours  Free Cancellation  Instant Confirmation
from
$418.89

What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Maximum group size of 14 guests for a more personalised tour
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Train Ticket in Versailles Gardens
  • Expert, native English-speaking professional guide
  • Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet Ticket and Guided Tour
  • Timed entry Palace of Versailles Ticket for self-guided exploration, avoiding the long queues
  • Versailles Gardens Admission Ticket with Guided Tour (Fountain Shows: Weekends, April–October)
  • Guests are required to arrange their own transportation to Versailles
  • Rain jackets
  • Snacks and Lunch

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • This 1.5-mile walk is downhill and is not suitable for mobility walkers, wheelchair users or individuals with canes
  • This 1.5-mile walk is downhill and is not suitable for strollers or small children (+7 years old only)
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Report Product Issue

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Language & Country

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free Cancellation

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST).

Sorting, ranking, and search results

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

City Boat Tours wants to make your searches as relevant as possible. That's why we offer many ways to help you find the right experiences for you.

On some pages, you can select how to sort the results we display and also use filter options to see only those search results that meet your chosen preferences. You'll see explanations of what those sort options mean when you select them.

If you see a Badge of Excellence label, the award is based on average review ratings, share of bookings with a review, and number of bookings through City Boat Tours over a 12-month period.

The importance of any one factor over any other in a sort order varies, and the balance is constantly being reviewed and adjusted. We're always updating our systems and testing new ways to refine and improve your results to make them as relevant as possible to meet your needs.