How to prepare for Versailles in the summer with kids.

Visiting the Palace of Versailles with kids in Paris is an incredible summertime adventure. It's not just a destination on our bucket list; it's an unforgettable experience etched in our memories.

In fact, we're planning to go back because there's so much more to explore, especially the stunning gardens of Versailles.

Now, let's be real—touring Paris with kids can be a bit challenging, especially in the summer heat. While King Louis may not have worried about things like food and water, as a parent, it's important to be prepared when visiting Versailles with your little ones.

First off, let me tell you, the experience is absolutely mesmerizing. I had to keep reminding myself that it was real and not a dream.

But you know what else is captivating? Children themselves! The last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed while surrounded by one of the most breathtaking places in the world.

To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable visit to Versailles with kids during the summer, I've got some helpful tips to share.

These will help you and your family make the most of your time and create wonderful memories without any stress.

BONUS: Check out 10 Activities To Do In Paris For Families

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Is Versailles worth visiting with kids?

Here's the deal: Kids who are under 7 or 8 years old will likely have a blast exploring the magnificent gardens and enjoying the outdoor activities at Versailles. There's so much to see and do that will capture their imagination and keep them entertained.

Now, when it comes to older kids, around the age of 7 or 8 and above, they'll probably be more capable of fully engaging with a guided tour and appreciating the rich history and opulence of Versailles. It's an opportunity for them to learn and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the palace.

So, in a nutshell, the enjoyment level for kids at Versailles can vary depending on their age. But don't worry, there's something for everyone, and with a bit of planning, you can ensure that your kids have a memorable experience at this iconic attraction.

Can you take a toddler to Versailles?

Let me share a little story from my visit to Versailles. So, here's the deal: I decided to leave my toddler at the hotel for a nap while my 9-year-old and I ventured into the palace for a tour. And let me tell you, it was the best decision ever!

Why, you ask? Well, first of all, strollers aren't allowed inside the palace. And trust me, navigating through crowds of people with a toddler in tow would have been a nightmare. I would have been stressed out, unable to enjoy the tour, and probably causing a scene with a tantrum-throwing toddler. Toddlers have their own agenda, you know?

That's why I highly recommend leaving the little ones behind when it comes to touring the palace. It's just not the most toddler-friendly environment. But fear not, there's still a whole day of fun awaiting you and your toddler in the glorious gardens of Versailles. It's the perfect place to let them run around, explore, and enjoy the fresh air.

So, take my advice and dedicate a day solely to experiencing the gardens with your toddler. Trust me, it'll be a much more enjoyable and tantrum-free experience for everyone involved.

How far is Versailles from Paris?

Paris to Versailles is about 9 miles.

So, here's the deal when it comes to getting from Paris to Versailles. Most folks will tell you to hop on the train and use public transportation, which is a solid option.

But hey, let me throw another idea into the mix: consider taking a taxi. Hear me out!

You're in the stunning city of Paris, for crying out loud. It might just be worth it to splurge a little and take a taxi straight to the palace gates. Think about it—no need to figure out a whole new transportation system in a foreign country. You can save yourself the hassle and dedicate more time and energy to enjoying the wonders of Versailles with your kids.

Sure, it might cost a bit more, but sometimes the convenience and peace of mind are totally worth it. Plus, you get to arrive in style, feeling like a total VIP.

So, my friend, the choice is yours. Go with the tried-and-true public transportation option or embrace the glamour and simplicity of a taxi ride. Either way, get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Versailles with your little ones!

Touring Versailles with Kids tips

01 | SKIP THE LINE WHEN YOU VISIT VERSAILLES

Entrance to the Palace of Versailles from behind the fence

Even if you buy timed tickets ahead of time through the Palace website, you still have to stand in line to check-in.

When you are in Paris with kids, every minute is precious.

I would pay the extra amount again to do a private tour of the palace for the following reasons: (with or without kids)

You get a private historian to take you on the tour. And they begin giving you a tour of Paris as you drive to Versailles.

Your guide picks you up at your hotel or stay, and the car has air conditioning. (Bonus if your guide drives a Tesla, as ours did)
Our tour guide took us in through a separate entry. We went through security quickly, and then our tour started. All within 10 minutes.
With the private tour, you skip the line and go straight in.

We saved ourselves probably two hours in total. Also, we were spared exhaustion from the heat and standing in line.

HOW TO BOOK A PRIVATE TOUR:

Check out Viator, our favorite site to book tours.

02 | THE PALACE IS HUGE

When you visit the Palace of Versailles with kids, you should know that it is impossible to see both the palace and gardens in a single day.

First of all, the palace itself is a lot to take in. From the rooms, decor, and history that you will take in, it’s all very stimulating.

You and your kids will be on your feet for about two hours. You will hear the words, “My feet hurt.”

PRO TIP: I recommend dedicating one day to you the palace and another to visiting the Versailles gardens.

03 | PACK WATER

Water fountain at the Palace of Versailles

While you will see several Versailles fountains in the gardens, I only found one fountain for drinking water. I also found that with the heat, I was too exhausted to look for water. Also, I was a little overwhelmed by the beauty of the palace.

There is a place to fill water bottles on the first floor near the entrance and bathrooms.
Also, you can buy water at one of the cafes in the gardens, though expect to see lines.

PRO TIP: Pack a backpack full of water bottles. Or, encourage everyone in your family to pack 2 - 3 bottles of water for themselves

04 | WEAR WALKING SHOES

Dancing in the gardens at Palace of Versailles

Your feet will thank you for wearing comfortable walking shoes after you visit Versailles with your kids.

Make sure everyone else in your family wears the right shoes too.

Though you are in the capital of fashion, it’s not a fashion show... Avoid blister and sore feet and pack comfortable walking shoes.

As you can see in the picture above, I am standing on gravel. Though it’s palace gravel, it’s gravel.

05 | VISIT VERSAILLES DURING OPENING HOURS

A mom with her kid in the gardens at the Palace of Versailles

Try to book your tour or visit early in the day. You can enjoy the cool air before it gets got.

PRO TIP: Take advantage of the beautiful natural morning light for your photos.

06 | WEAR SPF FOR VERSAILLES GARDENS

A mom in front of statues outside the Palace of Versailles

Pack your hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

There are places for shade around the gardens. But not all spots have shade…

07 | EXPLORE THINGS TO DO AT VERSAILLES (BEFOREHAND)

The The Versailles Orangerie on a summer day

When I visited, I had no idea you could explore the gardens in different ways than walking.

If you explore the gardens on foot, you will only see a sliver of the magnificent space.

Also, ask yourself this question: How long will it be until one of your kids starts crying because their feet hurt?

Let us not pretend it does not happen.

PRO TIP: Visit the palace's website to learn how to rent a golf cart, ride a mini train, or even ride a bike or boat around the area.

08 | BRING SNACKS (NO FOOD INSIDE THE PALACE)

A mom and daughter visiting the Palace of Versailles gardens

There are a few cafe’s in the gardens. Except in the summertime, they will be crowded.

I suggest packing easy snacks like fruit, bread, and cheese when you visit Versaillies with kids.

You cannot eat inside the palace.

READ MORE: Check out my blog post 10 Must-Try Foods In Paris For Culinary-Loving Families for ideas on what to pack for snacks.

09 | ENJOY THE CEILINGS OF VERSAILLES

A glass Chandelier inside the Palace of Versailles

When you are inside the palace doing your tour, take note of the decor above you.

I noticed that crowds tend to gravitate toward what is in front of them vs. above them.

TIP: If you and your kids want to enjoy part of the palace slightly away from the number of other people there, admire all of the chandeliers and art that lives on the ceilings of Versailles.

Our tour guide mentioned that most people do not notice the chandeliers.

Not all that glitters is in front of you. Sometimes it’s above your head…

10 | VISIT THE VERSAILLES SHOP

Maria Antonieta Throw Pillows from the Palace of Versailles gift shop

The gift shop is a perfect place to visit after your tour. My daughter loved the fancy pens and notebooks.

I took home a couple of pillowcases inspired by the decor in Marie Antoinette’s room.

FUN FACT: The entire Palace of Versailles is decorated in Baroque style except for one room. Marie Antoinette’s room takes on a fresh style partially inspired by her Austrian roots. She was not well-liked for doing things differently. I learned this fact in our skip-the-line Versalilies tour!