The grand Palace of Versailles draws visitors from around the world to gape at the spectacular former living quarters of French royalty. Synonymous with Louis XIV – the Sun King – and later Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, Versailles is a haven for history buffs and admirers of luxury looking for something to do beyond Paris. Manicured gardens and opulent architecture abound at this Unesco World Heritage site; we’ve found you some other little palaces to try on your trip.
Hotel du Jeu de Paume
Boutique Hotel
Hotel du Jeu de Paume on the pretty Rue de Fontenay is just two minutes from the Palace of Versailles and a one-minute stroll from the Palais des Congrès. Spare, modern and bright furnishings lend this hotel a slice of eccentricity – think towering leather headboards, Wes Anderson-style bathrooms and traditional shuttered windows. In keeping with its offbeat vibe a breakfast of fruit, pastries and eggs is served in a scatter cushion-strewn yurt – a setup that’s more glamping at Glastonbury than Marie Antoinette but – c’est la vie.
Les Versaillaises
Hotel
Cheery decor and bold primary colours create a warming and relaxed environment here at Les Versaillaises; a refreshing contrast to the stiff grandeur of the nearby palace. This quaint guesthouse within easy stomping distance of the royal city’s many attractions has all the features necessary for a pleasant city break. Choose between two clean and spacious rooms kitted out with memory foam mattresses, walk-in showers with complimentary toiletries and speedy wifi.
Waldorf Astoria Versailles Trianon Palace
Hotel
The spectacular Trianon Palace needs little introduction. Just a few steps from the Versailles grounds, this magnificent hotel features flawless furnishings, first-rate service and a Gordon Ramsay restaurant. Its decadent rooms and suites (in the historic palace or the modern pavilion) include picturesque balconies, flat screen TVs and charming fireplaces. Breakfast is available in-room, and the brasserie and bar offer superlative refreshments at any time of the day; you’ll feel like royalty in no time.
L'Orangerie White-Palacio
Hotel
In the perfect location for a visit to the palace, L’Orangerie White-Palacio is a traditional cottage and orangery with a homely atmosphere. The welcoming hostess here, Patricia White-Palacio, is incredibly accommodating, and the local area features popular shops and restaurants for some enjoyable outings. A great breakfast incorporating a plethora of fresh fruit is served daily.
Le Louis Versailles Chateau Hotel MGallery
Hotel
The captivating, modern design of Le Louis attracts dozens of visitors each year, and the elegance exuded by its exterior gives guests a flavour of what life was like in bygone days. The renowned restaurant serves an array of traditional French dishes in a cosy, contemporary environment and lays on a popular brunch on Sundays. With its gym, fitness centre and sauna – as well as direct access to Paris – this is a top choice for a refreshing, relaxing and easy stay in beautiful Versailles.
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Hôtel Le Versailles
Hotel
This picturesque hotel in the bustling centre of Versailles is within walking distance of all the main attractions including the royal stables, the antique district of the city and the indoor market. The Royal Chapel is another top spot for history lovers and it’s practically on the doorstep. Rooms here all boast different wallpapers depicting Chateau-related images and paintings; a creative space in which to rest your head for the night. This is one of the top hotel choices for families and also offers accessible rooms and secure parking.
Hôtel De France
Hotel
Directly opposite the Palace of Versailles, the incredible setting of Hôtel De France is hard to beat. Decorated in the classic style of bygone-era France, luxury and elegance are the key design components. Ornate, gilded window frames, richly decorated wallpaper and shining sculptures are just a few of the unforgettable fixtures, and the hotel’s restaurant – La Taverne de Maître Kanter – is open every day until midnight, serving land and sea specialties to suit every taste.
Hôtel la Résidence du Berry
Hotel
In the historic Saint Louis district, this hotel was built in 1727 as Louis XV’s private mansion. Recently redecorated in a way that retains a historic vibe but adds comfortable, modern fittings, the beautiful private garden and state-of-the-art pool should not be missed. Recommended for both families and couples, this is a great option for those looking for a charming mixture of old-fashioned Versailles and innovative France, and offers rooms with free wifi and large TVs, as well as an array of cute welcome products and soaps. Le Café des Arts, the hotel’s personal brasserie, will delight diners with revisited and delicious French dishes.
Hôtel des Roys Versailles
Hotel
Housed in an idyllic 18th-century property on Avenue de Paris, the walls of Hôtel des Roys have witnessed 200 years of historical comings and goings, and the venue itself is one of the oldest and most charming in the city. It’s been voted one of the best-located and best-equipped guesthouses in the area, and has a relaxed atmosphere, expert staff and an excellent ticket service for all the best local attractions.
Mischa Smith contributed additional reporting to this article.
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