Despite Rick's warnings about crowds, we have decided to go to Versailles on a Saturday so we can see the fountains and perhaps go to the Royal Serenade (even though this may be very touristy!). We plan to get the Paris Museum Pass, so entry to the chateau and Trianon will be covered. It seems that we can pay for the gardens on the spot.
My question is should we book the evening water and light show and the "costume party" in advance, or can we get those tickets on the spot as well? Also, does anyone know what time the last train back to Paris leaves the Versailles Rive Gauche/Chateau train station?
Posted by
755 posts
The last RERC départs Versailles rive gauche at 11:51 pm. But there is still Bus 171 (stop across from the Château ) with a last departure at 1:00 am (I have never missed this last RERC but it’s always reassuring to know about the late bus)
If you would like to minimize crowds, consider taking advantage of the long daylight hours in July. (Sunset is around 9:50 pm). Book one of the last Serenades at 7:30 or 7:50 pm. Then go right into the Garden Nocturne which begins at 8:30 pm, explore the gardens, fountains, and sunset views, with fireworks ending at 11 pm. I suspect the later Serenades may book up more quickly, so think about booking in the near future.
The Serenade and Garden Nocturnes make for a lovely summer evening at Versailles. It could be a good alternative to the daytime Château/Trianon crush.
Posted by
OP
19 posts
Thanks, Barbara.
I'm trying to find that 11:51 train that you mention, but it looks to me that on Saturday, the last train is at 10:25. If you can lead me to a different schedule, I'd appreciate it. Also, I got tickets for the Serenades at 7:50, including the Nocternes. We plan to visit Trianon and the chateau earlier in the day. Should I also buy tickets for the afternoon musicales ahead of time or are they readily available on the spot?
Thanks for your excellent information!
Posted by
OP
19 posts
Never mind re train. I found it. If you have an opinion re the afternoon tickets, I'd be happy to have it.