Location of the Palace
The Palace of Versailles is located in the city of Versailles, a short distance from Paris, and is easily accessible from the capital by various means of transport, including train, bus, and car.
Reaching the Palace of Versailles by Train
The train is one of the most convenient ways to reach Versailles, thanks to frequent connections from the capital and the station’s close proximity to the palace.
- Arrival Station: Versailles Château - Rive Gauche, located just a 10-minute walk from the main entrance of the palace.
- Line: Take line RER C from Paris.
- Travel time: approximately 40 minutes from central Paris.
- Main Paris stations to catch RER C: board at St-Michel, Musée d’Orsay, Invalides, Pont de l'Alma, and Champs de Mars - Tour Eiffel.
Trains depart every 15 minutes or so, making this option not only fast but also flexible. Note that the RER C line is well-connected with other city stations, so transfers are minimal. The RER C ticket is easy to purchase at the station or online, costing around 7-8 euros one-way.
How to Reach the Palace of Versailles by Bus
If you prefer taking the bus, you can choose the direct RATP 171 service from Paris to Versailles:
- Starting Point: Take the metro line 9 to Pont de Sèvres station, then transfer to bus 171.
- Travel time: the bus takes around 40 minutes to reach the palace.
- Ticket cost: approximately 2 euros one-way.
Bus 171 offers an affordable and convenient option with scenic urban and suburban views along the way.
How to Reach the Palace of Versailles by Car
It’s possible to reach the Palace of Versailles by car. Using the N118 highway, it takes around 40 minutes, though travel times can vary due to traffic, especially on weekends and holidays.
There are several paid parking options near the palace, or you can park in the town of Versailles and take a short walk, ideal for those wanting to explore the town center.
Frequently Asked Questions
At the last stop of metro line 9, you can take the RATP bus 171 and reach the Palace in about 40 minutes.
The best route by car between Paris and Versailles is using the N118 road. By following the signs from the city center, you can reach Versailles in about 40 minutes.
You can reach the Palace of Versailles by taxi for around 60€. This can be a great option to save time if you're traveling in a group.
The average travel time ranges from 40 minutes to one hour, depending on the transport chosen (train, bus, or car).
The cheapest way is the 171 bus, with a fare of about 2 euros per trip.
A ticket for the RER C line costs around 7-8 euros per trip. The nearest station to the palace is Versailles Château - Rive Gauche.
Yes, it is recommended to book in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket office and guarantee entry, especially during peak times.
There are several paid parking areas nearby, such as Parking de la Place d'Armes and others close to the palace. It is recommended to arrive early to find a spot.
