Cheap Flights to Versailles

Versailles is the most visited castle in France, being a host to more than 5 million visitors each year who travel to Versailles to discover its wonders. A true symbol of perfection, both classic and complex, this magnificent castle reflects the past grandeur of French royalty.

In 1682, Louis XIV, his Court and the government left the Louvre and Saint-Germain-en-Laye and moved to Versailles. The site where the castle now stands was a former hunting lodge of Louis XIII. The architect Louis Le Vau and gardener André Le Nôtre took the task to transform the lodge into a dazzling royal residence.

Often called "the most beautiful castle in the world," Versailles reflects mainly the ambition of Louis XIV, who wanted a palace at the height of the political and cultural power of France. Emblematic of the reign of the Sun King, the Palace of Versailles has had the privilege of being a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1979.

Visiting Versailles with the entire family

For a family day at Versailles to begin auspiciously, be aware that access to the permanent collections of the Castle (Great Apartments, Hall of Mirrors), the Castles of Trianon, Marie Antoinette's domain, exhibitions and audio guides are free for children under 18 years of age. Young visitors over 8 have the chance to be guided by an audio guide just for them.

When it comes to the interior of the castle, you can limit yourself to the Flats and Hall of Mirrors, as the little one may get bored quickly, especially since strollers are not allowed in the rooms, so they will have to walk. Hameau de la Reine is always a big hit with toddlers who are enthusiastic about the mill, dovecote , dairy, farm and small theatre. Installed in the large stable of the castle, the Carriage Museum wakes more often the children's imaginations than the frescoes of Le Brun. Beware as in Versailles; the distances between the sites can be considerable for small children. A train will take you through the gardens, unless you opt for bike rental.

A romantic break at the Versailles

Do not underestimate the ultra-romantic power of Versailles! Thousands of couples from all over the world book cheap flights to Versailles every year to visit the palace. Built for Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of Louis XV, the Petit Trianon is home to the Temple of Love. Built on an island, this small dome with Corinthian columns is home to the irresistible statue "Love carving an arc in the club of Hercules."

In the castle gardens, groves are real mazes of alleys with hiding pools and greenery theatres, which tempt couples to get lost on purpose. From March to October, the gardens are the theatre of great musical waters and there are several routes to follow to enjoy the many masterpieces gardens.

Tips to avoid the crowd

At the entrance of the Palace of Versailles, two long lines may immediately put you off, as these are proof the castle is truly the most visited one in the world. However, Versailles is a wonder on which it would be a shame to ignore. To optimize your day, here a few tips to avoid maximum queues. Buy your tickets online in advance and you'll avoid the queue for the checkout. It will do more than introduce you to the entrance, and it also works for visitors who are eligible for a free visit. If you are only coming to visit the Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette's Estate, you should know that they sell tickets separately and they are usually more readily available.

Wherever possible, if you are allergic to the crowd, avoid weekends and holidays and prefer Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays except holidays. You should make sure you book your flights to Versailles accordingly.

The ideal courses for a full day would therefore be to avoid peak times. At the opening time, put yourself in appetite in the parks and gardens, proceed with the Trianon and Marie-Antoinette field and postpone visiting the rooms of the castle for the second half of the afternoon.

Flighthub offers the cheapest flights to Versailles, so if you are looking forward to visiting France’s most famous palace, have a look at cheap rates for your preferred dates.