Car Rental Versailles

Located south-west of Paris, Versailles has a road network comprising minor D roads, with major A roads linking it to the capital.

The famous monuments of Versailles are all easy to access by car, with parking lots available close to its eponymous palace, gardens and Grand Trianon. There’s also on-street parking throughout the city, for which you’ll need to buy a ticket.

Versailles is also a great base for exploring other parts of France. As you would expect from a major city like Paris, Versailles enjoys excellent road connections to its surrounding area. It’s just 40 minutes from the center of Paris via the A13. Once there, you can soak up the iconic sights, wander the leafy boulevards and dine on world-class cuisine.

The Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park is only a 30-minute drive along the D91, a protected area with many historic sites, including the 11^th-century Chateau de la Madeline.

With a rental car it is also possible to explore more of northern France. Take the A13 north-west to historic Rouen, and you’ll arrive within 90 minutes. This freeway can also take you to Honfleur, a beautiful seaside resort, in two hours.

Driving on the right, speed limits vary by road type. On autoroutes, the French version of highways and usually tolled, the maximum is 130km/h (80mph). This reduces to 90km/h (55mph) on local roads and 50km/h (31mph) in urban areas.

Unearth the splendor of Versailles. Most visitors head straight to the monumental palace, a sight that’s truly not to be missed. But you’ll find plenty more to explore in this city, and with a rental car you’ll also have the option to venture further afield to Paris and beyond.

Regal magic

The number-one must-see on your list should be the resplendent Château de Versailles. This magnificent palace dates back to the 17^th century, when it was constructed for Louis XIV. Known as the Sun King, he was famous for his lavish tastes as well as his dislike of Paris, which led him to spend increasing amounts of time in Versailles. Originally a small hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles became the seat of royal power in France and today it still stands as one of the most impressive royal palaces in Europe.

Head inside and take a tour to drink in the flamboyant interior. Your eyes will pop at the most ornate room, the Hall of Mirrors – more than 350 embellish the enormous ballroom, reflecting the windows looking out over the gardens.

Wander outside to explore the enormous manicured gardens, filled with sculptures, fountains and rare plants. Inhale the sweet citrus scent as you stroll through the Orangery, gaze at your reflection in the Water Parterre and admire the statues lining the Great Lawn.

Outside the palace

Once you’ve ticked off the palace and its jaw-dropping grounds, head into the local area to explore Versailles’ other sights.

Venture to the Estate of Trianon, home to smaller palaces built by the royal family as an escape from the main court. Here you’ll find the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, colorful buildings surrounded by beautiful ornamental gardens. Today the Grand Trianon is used as a residence for the presidents of France to host meetings with foreign officials. Admire the pomp of the Italian-influenced palace made from pink marble as you amble through the grounds.

Along the tree-lined grand avenues, spot elegant mansions decorated with vivid blooms. Make a beeline for Notre-Dame, a 17^th-century church, and drink in the beauty of the intricate beautiful facade. Afterwards, head to Marché Notre-Dame. This glorious covered food market is a feast for the senses. Walk among stalls piled high with artisan cheeses, plump olives and fresh fruit. Pick up your favorite produce and take it for a picnic among the park next to the Grand Canal.

Visit Paris

With the French capital just a stone’s throw away, it’s easy to take a day trip to Paris. Park up and explore the iconic sights that have made the city so famous.

Take the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy the sweeping vistas of Paris. Head back down to the ground then make your way along the River Seine to discover the Louvre. This world-class museum is brimming with famous artworks from the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael and Michelangelo. While away the afternoon admiring paintings, sculptures and ancient artefacts.

Paris is a foodie’s dream, with classic brasseries, heavenly patisseries and cute cafes lining the streets. Use the opportunity to dine like a local and sample garlicky escargots, pastel-hued macarons and buttery croissants.

Rent a car in Versailles to explore this charming destination at your own pace, before heading out to discover Paris, the City of Love.