We would like to go here in July, but understand that it is a bit tricky to get there from Paris. A couple of tour companies offer one day excursions which are only available Wednesdays and Saturdays. They drop you off, let you explore on your own, then take you over to Fontainebleu and do the same before returning to Paris. Has anyone used these tours? Or has anyone done this trip on their own, and how did you get there? Many thanks!
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
According to the website vaux-le-vicomte.com, you can take a train to Melun and then a taxi (6 km) to the chateau, or the "Chateaubus" shuttle. See the website for schedules & fares.
Posted by
NYC
30 posts
Liane,
It's actually very easy on your own and, unless you prefer a tour bus/group, Rick's book does a great job of covering all you need to see. At Melun, take a taxi to the chateau. Tell the driver what your plans are and he will hand you a business card with his cell number on it. You can either pre-arrange a time to be picked up at the main gate at Vaux (I would recommend at least three hours) or you can call him from info desk just before you get to the gift shop/exit. My wife actually charmed one of the security guys to call the taxi driver to come pick us up. We later found out why he was so helpful...it's his brother-in-law's taxi service. Relax and enjoy. You will have a great time. Be sure to climb up to the dome for some great views/pics.
Posted by
Atlanta, Ga, USA
2023 posts
We took the train to Melun from Gare Austerlitz and then got on a bus that dropped us off near Fountainbleau. This was in October a few years ago and the shuttles were not running. RS said to share the cost of a taxi to get to Vaux-le-Comte but this is easier said than done. However, it was well worth it to take a taxi and on the return trip another taxi which took us to the train station at Melun. This day trip took the better part of a day. You can have lunch at Vaux.
Posted by
Houston, TX, USA
29 posts
We took that day trip last year with a company on the Rue de Rivoli ( I do not remember the company name.) We liked the convenience of it and the ability to see both venues very much. It did not feel too tour groupie. I am not sure the driver ever said anything. We are generally independent travelers, but like the point to point services when the DIY alternative involves too many transfers etc.
Posted by
OP
Richmond, BC, Canada
17 posts
Thank you everyone. The personal experiences were just what I was looking for. This has given us several options, and it looks like both places will be doable on one day. Thanks again.
Posted by
st. francisville, la
14 posts
Took my mother to Vaux about 5 yrs ago & enjoyed a delightful day. (We had a car.) Mom's had her knees replaced & long walks are hard for her but we asked & -- HOORAY-- they had a golf cart we could use. Sorry, can't remember if we had to pay for it. The golf cart enabled us to see the entire extensive garden, & at our pace so if you have mobility problems be sure to ask. Gardens were a real treat. At the time the chateau was sometimes open @ night for candlelight tours too. Would be a great place to ride bikes, picnic, if allowed.
Posted by
Huntington, WV
160 posts
Yep, the golf carts are still there at about 20 euro an hour. I wish they were limited to people with physical limitations, but the only limitation seems to be availability. Those carts zipping about every path in site tend to detract from the beauty of the gardens, but do save time.