my husband and i will be in Paris when the last leg of the tour de france comes down the champs elysees. we are NOT fans of biking (i mean, we don't hate it or anything, it is just not our thing; like we'd never go to the super bowl because we don't care about football) and because of this, we were thinking of going to versailles on that day. the thought was it would be as empty as it is ever going to be (we realize it is the most crowded place on earth most days!) thoughts on this? because if it really is worth it, i will make sure that is the day we reserve for that trip. we're going to be in paris for two weeks, so we've got time to choose from, but thought that would be the best decision. thanks in advance.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Tracy,, can't answer as to how crowds will be affected at Versailles by Tour de France, but honestly I don't think it will change them much. I have been in Paris twice during the Tour De France and it frankly did not affect my days at all. I just did not plan to visit the Arc De Triomphe or wander up the Champs or Rue Du Rivoli those days, and really other then seeing the crowd barriers being set up a few days before and the seating stands at lower end,, I just don't recall much about TDF at all.
It couldn't be worse to go to Versailles on that day, so if weather is decent why not ,, it could be marginally better( but if you've never been before you likely will still percieve it as very crowded anyways)
Good luck,, Versialles is one of my fave day trips.
Posted by
Manchester, CT, USA
69 posts
Versailles can be an easy less than an hour train trip from Paris on your own for a day. You can stay as for as long or as short as you want. From Metro: Invalides take the RER C train to Versailles. I suggest you buy the train and Ver combo ticket at the station because the purchase line at the palace is long and you will be glad you bought it in advance. It is also discounted compared to buying separately. It takes you to Versailles-Rive Gauche, can't be missed since it is the last stop. Take note of the departure times back to Paris before leaving the train station. Cross the street from the station and walk towards the right until you hit a treelined blvd. (or just follow the throng of people) at the end of which towards your left is the palace itself. Get there early in the morning possibly before opening and before the tour buses come in droves. Take the Petit Trains (little trams) to take you to the grounds and don't forget to stop at the Queen's Petit Trianon. Behind her mini castle is her miniature village (there is a path leading to it) where you find quaint little cottages, a manmade lake, farm animals and miniature gardens- a must see to me aside from the main palace itself. It is a hop on and off tram. Hope you like it. It is a lovely place.