Versailles afternoon visit

I would go early and spend 2-3 hours in the gardens around the Palace because they are just amazing. It shouldn't be as crowded in the afternoon when viewing the Palace but you never know, Versailles is a popular place. There's a nice restaurant for lunch down by the lake, in the middle of the gardens.

I visited in the afternoon--a cold and rainy day--and found it not terribly crowded, though my favorite part at the end was spending time at the two Trianons and exploring Marie Antoinette's hamlet, leaving by the side gate to avoid walking back through the palace grounds. I second the suggestion of lunch at the restaurant by the Grand Canal--La Flottille.

If I were ever to go to Versailles again it would be in the afternoon, hoping that some of the crowds had let up. Our Kings Apt. tour was in morning and when we got out of that the rest of the building was a mess, so yes, go for the afternoon slot and if you want to see the gardens go early and see it before your private tour. If you don't care about the gardens there are markets in town you could visit prior to your tour.

Ooh please don’t skip the gardens, some say it’s the best part and I agree. As christa mentioned, the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s hamlet are my favorite parts.

Renting a bike by the Grand Canal is an easy and very fun way to get around to everything.

Thanks to all for the replies. I booked a 2:15 Kings Apartments tour and will go out mid to late morning for the other areas and lunch.