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Taking elderly parent to Versailles

Posted by on

My husband, son, and I have already twice visited Versailles - in the summer - so I know that the lines can be horrible, and that the palace can be very crowded. However, it's been around 10 years since we've been there, and now I'm bring my very slow walking father on his first trip to Europe in January, and the list of places he wants to see includes Versailles.

Any recommendations on whether it's better to be there when it opens at 9am, or wait until after lunchtime? I used to think being there the moment the palace opened was the best time to be there, but I've read other posts that say the line is horrendous at that time. I'm trying to figure out what the best option is for someone who now walks very slowly, but still wants to see many, many things.

Thanks!

Posted by
1547 posts

Yikes. At least it's in January. I suggest a wheelchair which in watching mom's try to navigate with strollers, a wheelchair won't be easy amongst the crowds, but a very slow walking person would likely be easily overwhelmed no matter what time you go.

Posted by
5325 posts

you should watch some Youtube videos to see what the crowd is like, it's pretty terrifying. You might consider other chateaux.

Posted by
9596 posts

We were there last week with a timed entry ticket for when it opened. The line is very long as everyone is there waiting for the opening. However, the line moves quickly and we were quite happy to be there at opening as the crowds disperse upon entry. We went directly to the hall of of mirrors and enjoyed a time there with only about 20 other people.

Lots of stairs and few places to sit down or rest. Does standing for long periods bother him? If you are arriving by train, there is about 1/4 mile walk to the entrance.

Posted by
5 posts

I'm thinking about doing the King's Apartment Tour once the reservations opens up for it in January to be able to bypass some of the long lines. I'm also worried about the walk from the train station, and am considering a door to door private tour with private transportation - something I'd never do if it wasn't for my father being with us. I've visited Versailles twice in the past, both times in the summer, and I know how horrible the lines and crowding can be. I was just hoping that January would be a little better.

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