Why Versailles Tickets Feel So Confusing
Versailles isn't just "a palace". It's a full estate: the Palace, formal Gardens, Trianon Estate, and Marie Antoinette's Hamlet. On top of that, some days the gardens are free, some days they're not, and there are separate tickets, passes, and bundles.
This guide is designed to be calm and practical. By the end, you should know exactly which ticket fits your visit — and when a self-guided audio tour with tickets included actually makes your life easier.
Quick Option: Ticket + Self-Guided Audio in One
If you don't want to think too much about combinations, you can choose a self-guided audio tour that already includes the right ticket type (often with skip-the-line access and a clear route).
Explore flexible self-guided Versailles ticket bundles here:
The Main Versailles Ticket Types
1. Palace Ticket
This is the basic ticket. It gives you access to the Palace building: the famous Hall of Mirrors, Royal Apartments, and main interior rooms.
- Good for: short visits, travelers who only care about the Palace interior.
- Does not normally include: Trianon Estate or Marie Antoinette's Hamlet.
- Gardens: included only on days when the gardens are free (see below).
2. Passport Ticket
The Passport is the "see almost everything" option. It usually includes:
- Palace interior
- Gardens (including Musical Fountain Show days)
- Trianon Estate (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen's Hamlet)
- Marie Antoinette's Hamlet
If you plan to spend most of a day at Versailles and don't want to micro-manage what's included, the Passport is the simplest choice.
3. Gardens-Only Ticket (Musical Fountains / Musical Gardens)
On certain days, the gardens are not free — they turn into paid events with music and fountain shows. On those days you need a Gardens ticket or a Passport if you want to enter.
- Good for: people who have already seen the Palace, or who only want outdoor time.
- Note: a simple Palace ticket is not enough on these special days if you want to enjoy the full gardens event.
4. Self-Guided Audio Tour + Ticket Bundles
Some providers offer audio tour + entry ticket in one product. These often include:
- a skip-the-line or timed entrance to the Palace
- audio commentary on your phone
- a suggested walking route so you don't miss key rooms
These bundles make sense if you:
- dislike group tours but still want context and stories
- don't want to research ticket rules for hours
- prefer a clear route rather than wandering randomly
Understanding the Garden Access Rules
This is where most confusion happens. Pay attention:
Gardens Access by Season
- November 1 – March 30: Gardens are free with any Palace ticket (Palace or Passport)
- April 1 – October 31: Gardens require a Passport ticket OR a separate Gardens ticket
Musical Fountains Shows & Musical Gardens
April–October, Versailles hosts special fountain shows and musical garden events. Here's what you need to know:
- Musical Fountains Show: Fountains perform to classical music (specific days/times)
- Musical Gardens: Live musicians perform throughout the gardens (specific days)
- Night Fountains Show: Evening fountain spectacle (June–September)
Ticket rule: Your Passport ticket includes one single admission to any of these shows. If you want to see multiple shows, you'll need additional tickets.
Pro tip: Check the official Versailles website for show dates before booking. They're not every day.
Which Ticket Should You Choose?
Here's a simple way to decide based on the kind of visit you want:
"I Just Want to See the Palace Interior"
- Choose: Palace ticket.
- Consider: a self-guided Palace audio tour if you like context but don't want a group.
"I Want the Full Versailles Experience in One Day"
- Choose: Passport ticket or a Passport-style bundle.
- Includes: Palace, Gardens (even on show days), Trianon Estate, and Hamlet.
"I've Seen the Palace Before, I Mostly Want the Gardens"
- On a normal day: gardens are usually free.
- On a show day: Gardens ticket or Passport.
"I Hate Group Tours but I Don't Want to Plan Everything"
- Choose: a self-guided audio tour that includes the right ticket.
- Benefit: you get a route, explanations, and entrance handled in one purchase.
Why Self-Guided Audio Works Well at Versailles
The Palace rooms are dense with detail, and group tours often move faster than some visitors would like. A self-guided audio tour lets you:
- pause when you want to look longer at something
- skip sections that don't interest you
- replay parts if you missed them
- avoid being locked to a tight group schedule
When combined with the right ticket type, this becomes a stress-free way to see Versailles without feeling rushed or unprepared.
You can browse curated self-guided Versailles tickets and audio tours here:
🎟️ Find a Self-Guided Versailles Ticket That Fits Your Visit →
Booking Tips
Book in Advance
Versailles has strict capacity limits. You must book in advance to guarantee entry. Don't show up without a reservation.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (December–April): Best weather, clearest views of Arenal Volcano
- Rainy season (May–November): Fewer tourists, lush rainforest, but expect rain
- Early morning: Best wildlife activity, fewer crowds
Seasonal Pricing
Versailles uses low and high season pricing:
- Low season: November–March (fewer visitors, lower prices)
- High season: April–October (peak tourism, higher prices)
If budget is tight, visit in winter. The Palace is just as beautiful, and you'll have more space to explore.
Discounts & Free Admission
- Children under 10: Free admission
- Ages 10–17: Reduced rate (€7)
- Disabled visitors: Reduced rates available
- EU residents under 26: Free admission (with ID)
Common Questions Answered
Do I need to book in advance?
Not technically, but yes practically. On-site tickets sell out during peak season. Book online at least a few days ahead.
Can I enter the Palace without a timed slot?
No. All Palace entry requires a timed reservation. This is to manage crowds.
If I buy a Passport, can I skip Trianon and just do the Palace?
Yes. Your Passport gives you access to everything, but you don't have to visit it all. However, Trianon is worth 1–2 hours if you have time.
Are there really free days to visit Versailles?
Yes, but they're rare and crowded. EU residents under 26 get free admission with ID. Otherwise, admission is not free.
What if I lose my ticket?
If you booked online, your confirmation email is your ticket. Show it on your phone at entry. If you printed it, keep it safe.
Can I re-enter if I leave?
Your ticket is valid for one entry only. Once you leave, you're out. Plan your day accordingly.