A Versailles private tour and its secrets

Welcome to an exclusive journey through the splendor of Versailles!

As a certified Parisian guide, I am thrilled to offer you an unforgettable experience with our Versailles private tours and Versailles guided tours. Discover the hidden gems and rich history of this iconic palace, from the exotic animals of the Royal Menagerie to the scientific marvels of the Enlightenment era.

Explore secret rooms and passages that reveal the private lives of the royals, and stroll through the charming Queen's Hamlet, a rustic retreat of Marie Antoinette.

Join us to uncover the engineering wonders of one of Europe's first indoor plumbing systems and enjoy a seamless visit with our expert guidance. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in the grandeur of Versailles, our tours offer a unique and personalized experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

1.The Royal Menagerie: Versailles once housed a royal zoo, known as the Menagerie, established by Louis XIV in 1663. It featured exotic animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, and ostriches. While the Menagerie itself no longer exists, you can still admire the historic site from a distance. Located near the Grand Canal, this fascinating spot is a highlight you can glimpse during your private tour of Versailles.
2.Scientific Hub: During the Enlightenment, Versailles was a center for scientific experimentation. Both Louis XV and Louis XVI were passionate about science and collected numerous instruments for groundbreaking experiments in fields like surgery, astronomy, and electricity. The palace occasionally hosts exhibitions showcasing these scientific endeavors, which you can explore on a Versailles guided tour.
3. Hidden rooms: the palace contains secret rooms and passages that were used by the royal family to move discreetly. One of these rooms is the Cabinet des Dépêches, where the king reads confidential reports. The Versailles Privilege Private Tour includes, thanks to the special authorization issued by the Palace of Versailles, this hidden area, providing a glimpse into the private life of royalty.
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4. The Queen's Hamlet:Marie Antoinette had a rustic retreat built within the grounds of Versailles, known as the Hameau de la Reine. This picturesque village allowed her to escape the formalities of court life and enjoy a simpler, pastoral lifestyle. The Hamlet is open to visitors and offers a charming contrast to the grandeur of the main palace, making it a highlight of any Versailles guided tour.
5. First Indoor Plumbing:Versailles was one of the first places in Europe to have an indoor plumbing system. This included a network of pipes that supplied water to the palace's numerous fountains and bathrooms. The engineering marvels of the palace's water system can be explored during your Versailles private tour.

Useful Tourist Information


•  Opening Hours: The Palace is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last admission at 5:00 PM. The Gardens and Park are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

•  Tickets: It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the official website to avoid long queues. 

•  Getting There: Versailles is easily accessible from Paris by train. The RER C line takes you directly to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, a short walk from the palace.

•  Guided Tours: To make the most of your visit, consider joining a Versailles guided tour. These tours often include access to private apartments and other exclusive areas.

•  Facilities: The palace offers various facilities, including restaurants, souvenir shops, and bike rentals for exploring the extensive grounds.


Enjoy your visit to Versailles!