Versailles Palace and Trianon: Skip-the-Line, Guide, Lunch – from Paris

Travel back into France’s history to a period of decadence and royal excess. Known as the ultimate celebration of the flamboyant styles of the King Louis’ fourteenth, fifteenth and sixteenth, Versailles combines a mixture of Classical and Baroque styles that will delight any visitor to this royal residence.  The lavish decoration at Versailles reflects the sheer extravaganza which eventually led to the French Revolution. There is, however, much more to Versailles than the palace itself and the famous André Le Nôtre gardens. Join this tour of Versailles and Trianons to uncover the many delights of this delightful estate for yourself. The palace tour allows you to explore the decadent State Apartments, with its elegant reception halls, Queen's bedroom and wondrous Hall of Mirrors. Your guide will enthral you with tales of the French Kings and Queens and bring to life this legendary chapter of French history. Keep your eyes open for the hidden door in the Queens bedchamber that Marie-Antoinette escaped through when the Palace was stormed by a Paris mob during the Revolution. Move outside to the huge park surrounding the palace, where there are two small castles named Les Grand and Petit Trianons. Former summer residences of the King, they provided a place for him to escape to and forget about the etiquette of the court. From here continue on foot to Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet where the Queen played the shepherdess. Then enjoy some free time for lunch and a stroll in the Palace gardens. A fitting end to a wonderfully rich and diverting day, at this intriguing estate.