There’s something so delightful about a picnic in Versailles, especially when it’s set in one of the most iconic locations in France – the breathtaking palace gardens. Imagine this: the sun is shining, Versailles’ golden gates glimmer in the distance, and you’ve found the perfect spot to lay out your picnic spread with people you love. Here are 6 easy steps on how to make the most of this magical experience!
Step 1: Time it Right
To get the most out of your picnic in Versailles, timing is everything. The palace and its gardens can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. To avoid the hustle and bustle, plan your start your picnic promptly at noon to secure the best spaces on the lawn. You might also consider doing it later in the afternoon. A late afternoon picnic allows you to unwind as the crowds start to thin out, and the golden light of the setting sun casts a beautiful glow over the gardens.
It’s also important to check the weather in advance. Versailles can be stunning under clear skies, but rainy days can put a damper on your plans. If possible, have a backup indoor option in mind, like a nearby café, just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Lastly, remember that some areas, such as the Grand Canal, have seasonal hours. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of the grounds, as they may vary depending on the time of year. Proper planning will ensure that your Versailles picnic is relaxed and enjoyable without feeling rushed or interrupted by crowds or weather changes.
Opening Hours:
The gardens are open daily from 7:00 am to 8:30 pm during the high season (April to October) and from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the low season (November to March). Please note, during the high season, the gardens and covered areas close earlier at 5:30 pm on Fountains Night Show evenings and select other days.
Step 2: Gather Your Versailles Picnic Supplies
A picnic in Versailles begins with a trip to the Place du Marché Notre-Dame, Versailles’ local market. I recommend arriving early, as the market closes by 2:00 PM on market days (Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday).
This market is a treasure trove of French delicacies—fresh baguettes, rich cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruit. If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably get a little carried away with all the tasty offerings!
Here’s my go-to packing list for a perfect Versailles picnic:
- Bread: A fresh baguette is non-negotiable! Opt for a Baguette “Tradition” or a Baguette de “Campagne” if you want a bit more texture.
- Cheese: France is famous for its cheese, so try a variety! I usually pick up Comté (a crowd-pleaser), creamy Brie, and a bit of Chèvre Frais (soft goat cheese). Go here for a comprehensive list of the best cheese shops in Versailles.
- Meats: Some cured meats like jambon cru (cured ham) or saucisson (French salami) are easy to pack and taste divine with a chunk of baguette.
- Fruit: Depending on the season, grab some fresh fruit. Strawberries and raspberries are my go-tos in the summer, while figs and pears make for delicious autumn treats.
While you’re there, be sure to stop by Boulangerie Guinon, just around the corner from the market, for some incredible pastries—macarons or a tarte au chocolat make the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
If you prefer a quick take-away picnic:
- Try a click-and-collect at the Positive Cafe (website not yet in English)
- If you’re already in the gardens, try the grabbing a sandwich or crepe at the takeaway window at La Flottille. Their indoor cafe is also a good contender for rainy days, right on the edge of the Grand Canal.
Can I drink water from the fountains in Versailles?
Drinkable (potable) water fountains are available in the gardens at the following locations. Bring along a water bottle and fill it up often!
- In the Honour Courtyard of the Palace, near the South Ministers’ Wing
- In the park, between the Grand Canal and the Apollo’s fountain
- At the Grand Trianon, near the toilets
- At the Queen’s Hamlet, along the Dovecote
- At the Water Sideboard Fountain, in the gardens of the Grand Trianon
Step 3: Choose the Perfect Picnic Spot
The Palace of Versailles offers several ideal spots for a picnic. Both of which I’ve listed here, have no entrance fees.
My personal favorite? Either side of the Grand Canal, either under the trees (if you prefer shade) or right next to the water’s edge, for a killer view of the Castle in glittering gold at midday. Both locations provide a relaxed atmosphere where you can spread out a blanket, enjoy the scenery, and even toss a ball around if you feel like it!
Another charming location is by the Lake of the Swiss Guard. It’s a bit more secluded, with lovely views across the Orangery and plenty of shade on warmer days. You can access this spot via Rue de l’Indépendance Américaine or the Sailors’ Gate. Both of these spots are free to visit unless it’s a Musical Fountains or Gardens Day—so double-check those dates before planning your picnic!
Step 4: Don’t forget the Picnic Extras
No Versailles picnic is complete without a few extra touches! Head over to Monoprix for the essentials: plastic utensils, plates, and napkins. (Monoprix in Versailles is conveniently located at 5 Rue Georges Clemenceau, 78000 Versailles, France.) Don’t forget a bottle of water or fresh fruit juice.
Alcoholic beverages, including wine, are allowed in Versailles, making it the perfect addition to your day in the park. Don’t forget the bottle opener!
If you can, borrow a blanket from your Airbnb or hotel for a more comfortable setup. A lightweight plastic tablecloth from the supermarket can work just as well. Grab your sunglasses and don’t forget a good book or a deck of cards—Versailles is the perfect place to relax and soak in some leisure time with the locals!
Step 5: Setting Up and Enjoying Your Picnic
Now, with your basket packed and your supplies gathered, head to the gardens and pick your picnic spot. Personally, I always make my way to the Grand Canal’s banks—there’s nothing quite like enjoying lunch with a view of the serene water and the grandeur of the palace.
Lay out your spread, take a deep breath, and savor the moment. There’s something truly special about enjoying simple pleasures like a well-packed picnic in a place as magnificent as Versailles.
Step 6: Remember your Etiquette
While Versailles is a beautiful place to enjoy a picnic, there are specific areas where picnicking is not allowed. Here’s where you’ll need to avoid:
- The Formal Gardens: You can’t have a picnic in the meticulously maintained gardens close to the Palace, known for their flowerbeds, sculptures, and fountains. This includes areas like the Orangerie and the Parterre gardens.
- Inside the Palace: Food is not allowed inside the Palace itself, so you’ll need to finish your picnic before entering to explore the interior.
- The Marmousets Hall: Although it has a designated picnic area, you can only picnic here, not in the rest of the hall or the nearby ornamental Water Walk.
It’s important to stick to designated picnic spots like the banks of the Grand Canal for a relaxed experience. These areas are perfect for spreading out and enjoying your meal without worrying about breaking any rules.
Recycling and Cleaning Up: Remember to be mindful of the environment and clean up after your picnic. Versailles has dedicated bins for recycling and waste throughout the grounds, so make sure to separate your trash accordingly, including glass. Leaving no trace helps maintain the beauty of the gardens for everyone to enjoy!
Bonus: Deluxe Done-for-You Picnic Services
Dreaming of a luxury picnic experience in Versailles? In that case, several high-end providers take care of everything, from the gourmet food to the setup, allowing you to simply sit back and enjoy the scenery. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a luxurious family outing, or a royal experience, these three providers offer a range of deluxe picnic options to suit every need. Here’s how to plan the perfect picnic without any of the hassle:
1. Waldorf Astoria – Trianon Palace Picnic
The Waldorf Astoria – Trianon Palace offers a chic, pre-prepared picnic in their beautiful gardens. Whether you’re a guest at the hotel or visiting for the day, these gourmet baskets provide a refined, relaxing experience with delicious French fare.
- The Fresh Picnic Basket (€59 per person): Light and refreshing, with salad Niçoise, chicken or shrimp buns, cheeses, dessert, and mineral water.
- The Country Picnic Basket (€160 for two people): A more substantial meal featuring foie gras, cured meats, buns, cheeses, dried fruit, and juice.
- The Chic Picnic Basket (€200 for two people): A luxurious offering with foie gras, gourmet breads, cheeses, fresh fruit, and desserts served under the gazebos in the Waldorf Astoria garden. You must be a guest of the Waldorf Astoria to order this option.
Contact Information:
- Phone: +33 (0)1 30 84 50 00
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace Versailles
2. Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle Picnic
For the ultimate royal Versailles picnic experience, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle offers an exclusive gourmet outing set within the palace’s private areas. This bespoke experience includes a Michelin-starred meal and optional add-ons such as costume fittings, guided tours, or even a horse-drawn carriage ride through the palace grounds.
The picnic is fully customized, and prices vary depending on the options you select, making this one of the most luxurious and personalized experiences available at Versailles.
Contact Information:
- Phone: +33 (0)1 79 35 35 00
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle
3. Love Picnic Paris – Stylish Gourmet Picnics
Love Picnic Paris specializes in delivering gourmet picnic baskets to beautiful spots around Versailles, complete with surprise setups. Whether you’re planning a romantic date or a family gathering, these stylish baskets feature delicious French products and come with luxury picnic setups.
- Léon Picnic (€330 for two people): Featuring Baguette Tradition, cured meats, artisanal cheese, fresh salad, homemade dessert, and wine or lemonade. Add Champagne for €80.
- Amélie Poulain Picnic (€350 for two people): A whimsical and romantic picnic with quiche, fresh market salad, seasonal fruit, chocolate cake, and wine or lemonade. Add Champagne for €80.
- Jeanne Picnic (€340 for two people): A sweet picnic with macarons, gourmet chocolates, fresh fruit, artisanal juice, and mineral water. Add Champagne for €80.
- Edith Piaf Picnic (€490 for two people): The ultimate romantic option, including foie gras, smoked salmon, roast beef with ratatouille, dessert, and Champagne. Includes luxurious decor like cushions, candles, and designer tableware.
Contact Information:
- Phone: +33 (0)6 98 13 09 74
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Love Picnic Paris
Whether you choose the elegant picnic by the celeb Waldorf Astoria, the exclusive grounds of Versailles and meal by the Airelles Château, or one of the many charming picnic setups by Love Picnic Paris, these deluxe options offer the perfect way to experience Versailles in true French style.
