© Thomas Garnier
If Paris is worth a mass, Versailles is definitely worth the trip! The chicest countryside in Île-de-France is just 35 minutes from the capital (Line L from Saint-Lazare or via the RER C), yet sometimes we need a little extra motivation to hop on a train. Spoiler alert: with these amazing spots and ideas, you’ll never want to leave!
Marvel at Eva Jospin’s Couture Masterpiece
Looking for a reason to return to the Château de Versailles? Here it is. Eva Jospin, the most sought-after artist of the moment, is showcasing her stunning piece, Chambre de soie, in the Orangerie of the château until September. This monumental embroidery spans 107 meters in length over 350 m²! Crafted by artisans from Chanakya and the Chanakya School of Craft in Mumbai, who meticulously brought her pencil strokes to life.
Fashion Fact: First revealed during Dior’s haute couture autumn-winter 2021-2022 show, this work, praised by Maria Grazia Chiuri, now includes two new panels, enhancing the immersive experience of this colorful, wondrous nature. A must-see!
And After? Enjoy a royal, glamorous, and delicious tea time at Angelina located in the Allée des Deux-Trianons (open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6:30 PM) to end your visit in style.
Dine at the Kingdom’s Most Popular Table
Vous is the story of two childhood friends, Maxime (formerly of Hôtel Costes) and Arthur Bigot (from the renowned Bigot bakery dynasty in Versailles). While one masterfully runs the kitchen, the other ensures top-notch service inspired by experiences in Paris's grandest palaces.
Just steps from the château, this hotspot attracts the Versailles microcosm. Come for lunch to enjoy a lobster roll (€15) or a garlic bruschetta (€13). Continue with sweet potato gnocchi, gorgonzola espuma, and roasted walnuts (€22), and finish with a vanilla cream French toast with salted caramel and granola (€12). In the evening, Versailles’ elite slips into the Bleue comme une orange cocktail bar in the basement to savor signature drinks in a cozy ambiance with a chill playlist.
And After? Stroll to the Passage des Antiquaires (Passage de la Geôle, Rue du Bailliage, 17 minutes on foot), the epicenter of Versailles' art market. This historic spot is perfect for admiring furniture, engravings, old and modern paintings, and silverware.
Vous, 5 Rue du Vieux Versailles, 78000 Versailles - Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 12 PM to 2 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM, Thursday to Saturday from 12 PM to 2:30 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM. Reservations at 01 30 21 31 23.
Indulge in a Royal Night Just 20 Minutes from the Château
Just 20 minutes by transport or under 10 minutes by car from the château, the newly opened Dolce by Wyndham Versailles in Jouy-en-Josas welcomes you to a luxurious retreat. After years of abandonment, this former residence of the Toile de Jouy creator has been restored to its former glory within its lush, forested estate—pure escapism guaranteed!
Whether you stay in the historic Château wing, the late 19th-century Chalet, the Village des Arts, or the contemporary Villa Marie-Louise, each of the 178 rooms is adorned with Toile de Jouy. Wake up to the serene beauty of the estate’s lush gardens. For those who manage to get out of bed, the breakfast room and terrace also offer a full buffet with seasonal and local products.
And After? Relax for a few hours at the Sothys spa located in one of the hotel wings: indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, hammam, sensory shower, and fitness room are available for hotel guests (€25 per person for 2 hours).
Hôtel Dolce By Wyndham Versailles, 2 Rue Jean Bauvinon, Jouy-en-Josas - Take the RER C to Versailles Chantiers, then to Jouy en Josas station, or drive via the A86 towards Vélizy. Rooms from €230 per night. For more information and reservations online.
© Dolce Versailles / Spa du Montcel
Discover the Château’s New Exhibition
The Olympic Games are also coming to the Château de Versailles! While the equestrian events take place in the gardens in front of the Sun King’s residence, an exhibition runs through the castle’s corridors until November 3rd. The theme? The role of the horse in European civilizations. With nearly 300 works on display, “Cheval en majesté, au cœur d’une civilisation” explores the depiction of horses in art history from the Renaissance to World War I.
While the portrait of "Prince Leopold de Medici" by Justus Sustermans is extraordinary in the Hall of Mirrors, it’s the ornate equestrian gear that steals the show. Gold stirrups, dragon-head armor, 17th-century silk saddle cloths, and complete horse and soldier armors, some adorned with gold, form a true treasure trove!
And After? Extend your equestrian experience with a horseback ride like Marie-Antoinette through the château’s gardens, followed by a royal picnic lunch. (Horse Holidays France, €290, for experienced riders).
© Château de Versailles by T. Garnier, National Heritage Institute, Czech Republic by C. Fouin, and Nationalmuseum by L. Ahlgren
Dive into a Dream Pool
A full day of absolute bliss awaits you at the Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace Versailles, so leave your worries at the door. The hotel’s Guerlain Spa, a magnificent 2,800 m² sanctuary dedicated to wellness, currently offers an amazing deal.
Your “Day of Relaxation” includes access to the pool, sauna, hammam, and fitness room from 9 AM to 4 PM. The option we love? Adding a spa lunch: enjoy a chic meal delivered poolside. Choose from a selection of salads, seasonal risotto, steamed cod, a legendary club sandwich, penne with pesto, or a seasonal fruit Saint-Honoré. Activate “Me, Myself, and I” mode.
And After? Take advantage of the château's proximity to enjoy a peaceful stroll through Le Nôtre's gardens before heading home to preserve the relaxing benefits of your day.
A day at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace Spa, 1 Boulevard de la Reine, 78000 Versailles - Information at the spa: 01 30 84 51 40. €70 per adult on weekdays, €80 on weekends. Offer with lunch: €115 on weekdays, €125 on weekends.
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