Chartres and Versailles Private Full-day tour

An Intimate Journey to Chartres and Versailles for Up to Seven People

This private full-day tour in Paris offers a refined way to explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the cathedral of Chartres and the palace of Versailles. Priced at $1,948.87 per group, the tour comfortably accommodates up to seven participants, making it ideal for families or small groups seeking an personalized experience. With a duration of roughly 8 to 9 hours, it balances in-depth visits with enough free time to soak in each site at a relaxed pace.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, combined with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris. The guide is a licensed professional, delivering live commentary throughout the day, which enhances understanding of each location’s history and art. However, note that food and drinks are not included, so planning for meals is recommended.

This tour is well-suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as walking and exploring are involved. While the pace is generally comfortable, travelers should be prepared for some walking on paved streets and the need to navigate historic sites. This tour remains a great choice for anyone eager to experience two of France’s most impressive landmarks in a single, well-organized day.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 7 people at a fixed price
• Duration of 8 to 9 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris
• Visit to the largest cathedral in Europe, Cathedrale de Chartres, with skip-the-line access
• Explore the Palace and Gardens of Versailles, including Louis XIV’s historic residence
• Expert licensed guide provides lively commentary at each site
• Comfortable private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle

Visiting the Palace of Versailles: Louis XIV’s Grandeur

The Palace of Versailles is the tour’s first major stop, where visitors spend about 2 hours exploring the world-famous palace and its magnificent gardens. The tour ensures skip-the-line access, allowing guests to bypass long queues typical of this popular site. Inside, travelers encounter lavish royal apartments, grand halls, and exquisite furniture and decor reflecting Louis XIV’s reign.

The gardens of Versailles are renowned for their formal design, fountains, and sculptures. The guide offers insights into the history of the palace, emphasizing its role as a symbol of royal power and artistry in 17th-century France. The gardens provide ample space for independent exploration and picture-taking, making this a highlight of the day.

While the interior tour focuses on the main royal chambers, the gardens add a scenic element that emphasizes the palace’s scale and opulence. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as some walking on paved paths and stairs is involved. This stop encapsulates the grandeur of Louis XIV’s France and remains a key attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Chartres Cathedral: France’s Gothic Masterpiece

Following the Versailles visit, the tour heads south to the town of Chartres, where the Cathedrale de Chartres dominates the skyline. This max 2-hour visit highlights the largest cathedral in Europe, celebrated for its French Gothic architecture, sculpture, and 13th-century stained glass windows covering over 3,000 square yards.

The triple masterpiece of architecture, sculpture, and stained glass makes Chartres Cathedral a must-see for art lovers. The guide explains the significance of its design, pointing out features that exemplify Gothic art. Guests walk through the old town, lined with beautiful houses and paved streets, leading to the cathedral’s entrance.

This location also features “hillocks” that lead toward the Eure valley, revealing scenic views and historic mills, tanneries, and riverside wash houses. The free admission allows visitors to explore the exterior and interior at their leisure, appreciating the stained glass and sculptural details that make Chartres a treasure of medieval France.

Seamless Private Transportation and Expert Guidance

From start to finish, the private transfer ensures a smooth day with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris. The licensed guide provides live commentary, enriching the experience with stories about the sites’ history, architecture, and art.

The tour’s timing begins at 9:00 am, giving travelers a full day to absorb the sites without feeling rushed. The small group size guarantees a more personalized interaction and the ability to ask questions comfortably. Air-conditioned transport makes the sometimes warm summer or cooler winter days more pleasant.

Because the tour is only available for groups up to 7, it offers an intimate setting that larger group tours cannot. The professional guidance enhances understanding and appreciation, especially at sites that boast complex symbolism or artistic craftsmanship.

The Experience of Flexibility and Free Time

While the tour schedule is structured, each location offers free time for independent exploration. Visitors can linger over the stained glass windows at Chartres or stroll through the gardens of Versailles as they wish.

This flexibility caters to individual interests, whether that’s taking more photographs, visiting specific rooms, or simply enjoying the scenery. The guided commentary complements this free time, helping visitors appreciate hidden details and historical context.

The Practical Aspects: Booking and Accessibility

The tour is booked on average 122 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and payment is non-refundable, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Meeting points are conveniently located near public transportation, and the tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, involving some walking. The private activity means only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience free from crowds.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for small groups or families looking to maximize their time in France with guided visits to iconic sites. The expert guide’s storytelling appeals to those interested in art, architecture, and history. It is also suitable for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and personalized attention.

Note that, due to the non-refundable policy, this tour suits those with firm travel plans. If you want a well-organized, insightful day with skip-the-line access to two of France’s most impressive landmarks, this tour offers a reliable and enriching option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
Yes, admission to Chartres Cathedral and Versailles Palace is included, with skip-the-line access to Versailles.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as walking is involved at both sites.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included, so planning for meals during the day is recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, the focus is on the scheduled stops at Versailles and Chartres, with some flexibility for personal interests during free time.

What makes this tour stand out?
Personalized service, expert licensed guides, skip-the-line tickets, and the chance to explore two iconic UNESCO sites in one day make this tour a compelling choice.

This full-day private tour offers a well-balanced blend of luxury, education, and scenic beauty—perfect for those eager to see France’s historic highlights comfortably and in depth.