Living in Versailles as a mom is quite the adventure! Over the years, I’ve probably visited the Palace of Versailles and its gardens with my kids hundreds of times, from toddlers through tweens. It’s easy to rack visits up when we host out-of-town guests, and when it seems that ever school field trip is either to the castle or gardens.
But let me tell you – it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. I’ve dealt with meltdowns in the Hall of Mirrors, desperate bathroom hunts in the gardens, and maybe even lost of kid or two. But I’ve learned so much, and now I’m here to share my hard-won wisdom with you.
When is the Best Time to Visit Versailles with Kids?
Timing can make or break your family experience at the Palace of Versailles. I learned this the hard way when I once foolishly took all four kids during a mid-July weekend. Never again! The crowds were unbearable, and my youngest had a complete meltdown in the packed State Apartments.
Here’s what I’ve discovered works best:
- Weekday mornings are significantly less crowded, especially Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Avoid school holidays in France (especially July-August, Christmas break, and spring break)
- Winter visits (January and February) offer the quietest experience, though the gardens won’t be in bloom
- Opening time (9:00 AM) is magical—you’ll feel like you have parts of the palace to yourselves
- Late afternoon (after 3:00 PM) works well as many tour groups have departed
One way to win is to reverse-engineer your itinerary by heading straight to Marie Antoinette‘s Estate. That will gives you about an hour of peaceful exploration before the crowds arrive. There’s no better way than to watch the gardens come alive than getting there early.
Tickets and Practical Information
The ticketing system at Versailles confuses many visitors, and I’ve seen frustrated parents realizing too late they bought the wrong ticket type. Don’t make that mistake.
Current Ticket Options:
- Passport Ticket (€21 for adults, free for under 18s): Includes the Palace, gardens (on regular days), the Trianon palaces, and Marie-Antoinette’s Estate. This is what I recommend for families.
- Palace Ticket (€18 for adults, free for under 18s): Just the main palace.
- Trianon Ticket (€12 for adults, free for under 18s): The Grand and Petit Trianon palaces and Marie-Antoinette’s Estate.
- Garden Ticket: Free access except during Musical Fountain Shows and Musical Gardens (€8.50-€10 during these events).
Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance. The lineup at the ticket office can easily add an hour to your wait time—something no child (or parent) has patience for.
Planning Your Route: A Mom-Tested Itinerary
After countless visits, I’ve perfected what I call the “Minimal Meltdown Route” through Versailles. It’s kind of a backwards tour, as you’ll be working against the crowds. The goal is that it keeps energy levels balanced and interest high throughout the day:
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Start at Marie-Antoinette’s Estate (quieter, more whimsical, room to run)
- Petit Trianon (smaller scale, less overwhelming)
- Gardens near the Trianon (let kids run and explore)
Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Picnic in the gardens (our favorite spot is near the Apollo Fountain)
- Alternatively, La Flottille restaurant by the Grand Canal (pricey but convenient)
Afternoon (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Main Gardens (fountain shows if scheduled)
- The Palace (focusing on the King’s Apartments and Hall of Mirrors)
I made the mistake once of starting with the palace when the kids were tired and hungry. Once you’re in the castle, you’re committed. There’s no ins-and-outs and you will be limited in food options inside the castle. My little adventurers get some outdoor time first, which makes them more receptive to the historical interiors.
The Palace: Making History Fun for Different Ages
The palace itself can be overwhelming for children. Here’s my suggested breakdown of age-appropriate activities.
For Preschoolers (3-5):
- Focus on the Hall of Mirrors. (Ask staff for shortcuts, so you can head directly there and avoid the maze through the State Apartments)
- Play “spot the dog” in paintings. Luckily the royals were big fans and had many pets.
- Count chandeliers or gold decorations.
- Limit palace time to 30 minutes max. This is totally possible.
For Elementary Age (6-10):
- Read my guide to DIY tours of Versailles
- Get the children’s audio guide (absolute game-changer!)
- Play “I spy” with historical elements (find the king’s bed, spot Marie Antoinette, etc.)
- Show them the secret door in the Queen’s Bedchamber where Marie Antoinette escaped
For Tweens and Teens (11+):
- Connect the palace to popular media (Versailles TV series, Marie Antoinette films)
- Challenge them to photograph the most interesting architectural details
- Discuss the French Revolution and its impact
- Let them lead the way through sections that interest them
- Play an escape game, make learning interactive
The Gardens: Where Kids Can Actually Enjoy Versailles
The gardens at Versailles are a paradise for children needing to burn off energy. This is where my kids have always been happiest during our visits.
Must-Do Garden Activities:
- Rent rowboats on the Grand Canal (€17 for 30 minutes, fits up to 5 people)
- Garden train that circles the estate (€8.50 round trip, saves little legs)
- Musical Fountain Shows (weekends April-October, absolutely magical!)
- Bike rentals to explore the vast grounds (€7.50 per hour)
- Picnicking at the Grand Canal (our family tradition)
In springtime and summer the gardens are full of local joggers, and picnicking families (mine included). There’s space in the gardens and you won’t feel sardined like you might be during this period going through the castle.
Food and Refreshments: Avoiding Hangry Meltdowns
Food options at Versailles can be limited and expensive. I’ve learned through trial and error (and many hunger-induced tantrums) that planning meals is crucial.
Where to Eat:
- Angelina in the palace (a Paris classic. It’s gorgeous, but often pricey and busy)
- La Flottille by the Grand Canal (nice outdoor seating)
- La Petite Venise (good pizza options for picky eaters)
- Picnic spots throughout the gardens (our preference)
Picnic Pro Tips:
- The security allows small backpacks with food inside
- Bring a small blanket to sit on
- Pack extra water or at least refillable bottles. You’ll find free running water stations in the garden.
Handling Logistics: Bathrooms, Strollers, and More
The practical aspects of visiting Versailles with kids can make or break your experience. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!
Bathroom Situation
- Main palace: Located at the entrance and exit, often crowded
- Gardens: Several locations but sometimes basic
- Marie-Antoinette’s Estate: Cleaner and less busy
- My secret tip: The bathrooms in the restaurant pavilion by the Grand Canal are usually the cleanest and least crowded
Stroller Access
I know it can be confusing, as I’ve found conflicting information even on the castle website. But from experience, strollers and metal baby carriers are not allowed inside the Palace. You’ll have to check them at the lockers at the entrance and pick them up to stroll the gardens.
Seasonal Considerations: When to Visit Throughout the Year
Each season offers a different Versailles experience for families:
Spring (April-June)
- Musical Fountains start operating
- Weather generally pleasant
- My favorite spring activity: Hunting for tadpoles in the many ponds outside the palace grounds
Summer (July-August)
- Busiest time but fullest garden experience
- Night fountain shows (magical for older children)
- Extended hours
- Summer survival tip: Visit very early or later in the afternoon, and bring sun protection and plenty of water
Fall (September-October)
- Beautiful changing colors in the gardens
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Musical Fountains still running on weekends
- Our fall tradition: Collecting colorful leaves near Marie Antoinette’s hamlet
Winter (November-March)
- Least crowded time
- No fountain shows
- Limited garden blooms
- Christmas decorations (December)
- Winter bonus: Almost no lines for palace entry
I used to avoid winter visits until I discovered how peaceful and magical Versailles can be during the colder months. Now it’s actually my preferred time to bring the children.
Special Events for Families
Versailles hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year that can make your visit extra special:
- Family Tours (offered regularly, check the official website)
- Children’s Workshop Days (typically during French school holidays)
- Costume Days (special events where staff dress in period attire)
- Night Fountain Shows (summer weekends, spectacular for older children)
Last summer, we attended a special children’s workshop where my kids learned about baroque dance. They loved dressing up in simplified period costumes and learning the steps. Check the official Versailles website before your visit to see what might be scheduled.
Must-Pack Items for Parents
After forgetting crucial items too many times, I now have a “Versailles with Kids” packing list:
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk 5-10km in a day!)
- Reusable water bottles (fountains to refill throughout gardens)
- Snacks, snacks, and more snacks
- Portable phone charger (for photos and audio guides)
- Sun hats and sunscreen (gardens have limited shade)
- Light rain jackets (weather can change quickly)
- Small first aid kit with bandages (those gravel paths claim many knees)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Small bag of activities for waiting times (playing cards, small sketchpad)
Beyond Versailles: Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby
When palace fatigue sets in (and it will), there are wonderful child-friendly activities nearby:
- Potager du Roi (King’s Kitchen Garden): Fascinating for children and much less crowded
- Versailles Market (Les Carrés Saint-Louis): Amazing food stalls and a more authentic French experience
- Parc Balbi: Local park with playground equipment, just a 10-minute walk from the palace
- Boat rental at the nearby Lac des Ibis for a peaceful alternative
- Poney Club de Versailles: Horseback riding lessons and pony rides just outside the estate
After particularly intensive palace visits, I treat my kids to ice cream at “Il Gelato del Marchese” near the market square. It’s become our post-Versailles tradition.
Final Thoughts: Making Memories That Last
Visiting Versailles with children isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. My children have grown up with the palace as their backyard, and it’s shaped their appreciation of history, art, and beauty.
My biggest piece of advice? Don’t try to see everything. It’s better to have a happy, engaged experience seeing 25% of Versailles than a miserable experience trying to see it all. The palace has stood for centuries – it will be there for your next visit!
What began as overwhelming outings with toddlers has evolved into meaningful experiences as my children have grown.
Remember that you’re not just visiting a museum – you’re creating family memories in one of the world’s most magnificent settings. Take your time, follow your children’s interests, and enjoy the journey through French history together.
