A gorgeous destination just beyond Paris, Versailles is undoubtedly best-known for its magnificent palace. History aficionados and relaxed travellers seeking to escape the buzz of Paris for the weekend have long flocked to this very special spot, and a number of excellent B&Bs and chic hotels have sprung up as a result. Whether you’re dreaming of an active family trip or a romantic retreat in leafy surroundings, our selection of the best places to stay in Versailles is a brilliant starting point for planning your next big break.

The splendid Château de Versailles, built by Louis XIV, is a wonder. Now housing only a scattering of furniture, the palace still boasts intricate frescoes, mouldings, paintings, mirrors and more; guided tours are recommended for really getting a sense of this enormous landmark. Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the manicured gardens — themselves a feat of engineering — or to catch the sound and light show, complete with fireworks and period costumes, held each evening during the summer months.

Venture beyond the Château to see the Grandes Écuries — once the stables for the king’s horses — as well as the Potager du Roi and the Musée Lambinet’s impressive collection. Ambling through the town itself, you can pop into historic churches, bustling independent boutiques and a burgeoning number of cafés and restaurants. This is a wonderful destination for foodies; our pick of the best places to stay in Versailles includes two fabulous boutique hotels with Michelin-starred restaurants.

The Best Places to Stay in Versailles

For a Charming B&B

• Les Versailles B&B, near the centre of town, is an affordable spot with two smart rooms featuring parquet floors and crisp white linens on sink-into beds. Small, well-located and reasonably priced for exploring Versailles.

For Families

• The Hotel le Versailles has 45 traditional rooms just minutes from the Palace of Versailles on foot. Book a larger room if travelling as a family for space for up to four guests. Feast on big breakfasts on the sunlit terrace or in the atmospheric dining room, and enjoy drinks at the bar or long soaks in the bathtub each evening. A family-friendly base.
• Hotel du Jeu de Paume offers double, triple and family rooms at reasonable rates in the heart of the city. Modern rooms have a cool urban feel, with quirky art and useful soundproofing. The lounge and library are great for kicking back, whilst there are lively markets within walking distance. Great for guests of all ages.

For Luxury

• Trianon Palace is a stunning 18th-century hotel with beautifully decorated interiors, tucked in the parkland of the legendary palace. Expect indulgent rooms and suites, a terrific two-Michelin-starred restaurant and a sensational spa. The tennis courts and acres of leafy gardens are lovely.
• Les Etangs de Corot is a striking timber house set near the riverbank in a small hamlet between Paris and Versailles. Pick this place for the understated elegance of its guest rooms, the fabulous Michelin-starred dining at Le Corot Restaurant, and the superb spa. A luxurious retreat.

FOR AN APARTMENT or Holiday House

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport or to Paris Orly Airport, and travel to Versailles by train or car. If journeying from the UK, take the Eurostar to Paris, and the train to Versailles from there.
• Versailles is well-connected by public transport, but the flexibility of a car is wonderful if you plan to explore further afield. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months for the warmest weather, although this is the busiest time of year. Spring and autumn are quieter, cooler and very picturesque.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Paris.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Ile de France.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.