This time, in “Paris Travelogue Part 4,” we’re sharing a different side of Versailles. Picture yourself strolling through peaceful gardens, the crisp winter air waking you up as you go. We also visited the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon where Marie Antoinette used to escape the busy life of the main court.
We’ll tell you all about what we loved, what surprised us, and how to make the most of your visit without wearing everyone out. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking for a relaxing day out, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s explore together!
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Paris Travelogue 3: Versailles in Winter: What to Expect and How to Enjoy the Palace
Day 2 in Paris was all about exploring the stunning Versailles Palace! From the Hall of Mirrors to the beautiful gardens and the Trianons, it was a day full of wonder!
Exploring the Gardens
After touring the palace, we ventured out into the sprawling gardens. Originally, we planned to leave for lunch and head back to Paris to visit the Musée d’Orsay. But Versailles had so much to offer that we decided to dedicate the entire day to it instead.
The gardens, even in late November, were stunning. Although the fountains weren’t running, the neatly trimmed trees and expansive grounds more than made up for it. I couldn’t help but imagine how vibrant the gardens must look in the summer. If anything, it left me thinking, “I have to come back when everything’s in full bloom!”
While summer visitors can rent bikes to explore, this wasn’t an option during our visit. Golf carts were available, but since we planned to visit the Trianons and exit through a different gate, we decided to walk instead.
Golf Cart Rental Rates
To The Estate of Trianons
The Trianons are smaller palaces where the royals enjoyed their private moments away from court life. Admission requires a separate ticket, though combo passes are available and worth considering.
Versailles Palace Tickets
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Visit top attractions like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay with one flat fee. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see more in less time and save money.
Note: Some museums still require a free reservation, even with the pass. Be sure to book your time slot on their official website.
The path to the Trianons is lined with beautifully maintained trees and gardens. Walking here felt surreal—like stepping back in time. I kept imagining the conversations and footsteps of historical figures who once roamed the same paths.
Angelina Petit Trianon | The palace of Versailles
On the way to the Trianon, hunger hit, so we stopped at Angelina, the café famous for its Mont Blanc dessert. Unlike the perpetually crowded Paris location, the Versailles café was blissfully calm, with no wait.
We opted for indoor seating; they had outdoor seating, but we were not sure if it was really open since it was cold in November. We were pleasantly surprised by how quickly we were served. This location operates more like a fast-casual spot—order at the counter, grab your food, and dig in. It was perfect for a quick, satisfying break.
By the time we wrapped up at 3:40 PM, the sun was already setting—November days are short! If you’re planning to visit Versailles, I’d strongly recommend starting as early as possible to make the most of your time.
Angelina Hours of Operation:
Cakes are priced around €9 each.
The Estate of Trianon
The Grand Trianon
The Grand Trianon is one of the smaller palaces at Versailles, and it felt like a breath of fresh air compared to the grandeur of the main palace. Built by Louis XIV as a retreat to spend time with the queen—and his mistresses—it has a much simpler design. The pink marble and understated elegance give it a calming vibe that’s so different from the over-the-top opulence of the main palace.
Walking through the airy corridors and beautifully kept gardens, I could see why this was considered a hideaway. It’s peaceful and far from the formality and chaos of court life. But honestly, the fact that Louis XIV went to such lengths to create this private escape for himself and his mistress says a lot about the values of the time, doesn’t it?
I couldn’t stop thinking about the queens of that era. They were married off for political reasons and expected to focus on producing heirs while navigating the pressures of court. It’s hard not to feel a bit sad for them, especially knowing the king had spaces like this to unwind, while the queens’ lives were so restricted.
Still, the Grand Trianon is a beautiful place to visit. It feels personal, almost like you’re seeing a softer side of the history at Versailles. I found myself imagining what it must have been like to stroll through those gardens centuries ago—both as a king with endless freedom and as a queen longing for a little of her own.
The Petit Trianon
About a 10-minute walk from the Grand Trianon lies the Petit Trianon. Originally built by Louis XV for his mistress, Madame de Pompadour, it was later gifted to Marie Antoinette by Louis XVI.
Marie Antoinette adored this place and often used it to escape the formalities of court life and enjoy a sense of freedom. As I wandered through its halls, I could imagine the isolation and challenges she must have faced. Sent to France at just 14, she left behind her home in Austria to navigate an unfamiliar language and culture while bearing the immense pressures of being queen. In an era without phones or easy communication, it’s no wonder she treasured this space as a sanctuary of peace.
Compared to the opulence of the main palace, the Petit Trianon felt tranquil. It was easy to see why it served as her haven.
The Queen’s Hamlet
Unfortunately, we weren’t able to visit this area because of winter’s short daylight hours. If you plan to visit in winter, keep in mind that many parts of the estate close early! The Queen’s Hamlet was a small village created for Marie Antoinette to experience a simpler, rustic lifestyle with her children.
What to Wear and How to Make the Most of the Trianons at Versailles
To make the most of your visit, comfortable walking shoes would help, as the grounds are vast and require plenty of walking. If you’re visiting in winter, be ready for the sharp contrast between the warm indoor spaces and the chilly outdoor air. Packing a beanie, gloves, and layers will keep you comfortable as you move between the two environments. When exploring the gardens, it’s easy to lose track of time, enchanted by the sweeping views. However, don’t underestimate how cold the breeze can feel after a while.
Since the estate is so expensive, it’s helpful to plan your day ahead of time. Decide which areas you want to prioritize, whether it’s the gardens, the Trianons, or the grand palace itself. Arriving early is your best bet for avoiding crowds and fully immersing yourself in the experience. For us, dedicating an entire day to Versailles was the perfect choice, allowing us to soak it all in at a relaxed pace.
Ultimately, Versailles is a remarkable blend of history, nature, and art. No matter when you visit, each season offers its own unique charm. While we marveled at its winter beauty, I can only imagine how magical it must be in the summer. One day, I hope to return and see Versailles in other seasons.
Coming Up Next…
In the next blog post, I’ll share all about our family’s first-ever luxurious dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant and some beautiful nighttime spots we discovered.
Expect more real-life travel insights, family-friendly tips, and inspiration to make your own adventures even more enjoyable. Stay tuned!
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