Private Fontainebleau, Versailles, Trianon from Paris

Discover the Majesty of Fontainebleau and Versailles in a Private Day Trip

This private tour from Paris offers an immersive experience to see Fontainebleau Palace, Versailles Palace, Gardens, and the Trianon estates for $532 per person. Spanning 11.5 hours, it combines expert-guided visits, skip-the-line tickets, and comfortable transportation in a Mercedes E220 or minivan, depending on your group size. Designed for groups of 2 to 7 people, the tour emphasizes personalized attention and in-depth exploration of some of France’s most iconic royal sites.

The day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free experience. The live English-speaking guide shares insightful commentary about France’s history, the royal residences, and the stories behind each location. A highlight is the musical fountains at Versailles Gardens during summer, adding a memorable dimension to the visit. While the itinerary is packed, the tour balances sightseeing with leisure, including time for lunch and walking through gardens, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-inclusive private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off from Paris
• Visit Fontainebleau Palace, with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide
• Explore Versailles Palace, Gardens, and Trianon estates with guided tours
• Experience the Hamlet de la Reine and Small Trianon‘s rustic charm
• Enjoy musical fountains in Versailles Gardens during summer
• Comfortable transportation in Mercedes vehicles, suitable for small groups

Starting the Day with Fontainebleau Palace and Gardens

The tour begins early with a hotel pickup in Paris around 8:00 AM. You’ll travel approximately 70 km, with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Fontainebleau Palace. During the journey, the guide shares background on French history, setting the tone for what’s ahead.

Upon arrival at Fontainebleau, the skip-the-line access enables a quick entry into the palace, where you explore the lavish interiors with an audio guide. The palace, a favorite second to Versailles, is a sprawling complex with centuries of history. After the indoor visit, a free walk in the gardens offers fresh air and scenic views, perfect for photos or a leisurely stroll.

A lunch break follows around 12:00 PM. Guests can choose a recommended local restaurant or enjoy free time in Fontainebleau town. The flexibility allows for personal preferences, whether for a quick snack or a sit-down meal before heading to Versailles.

Smooth Transition to Versailles Palace and Gardens

At 1:00 PM, the journey continues with a one-hour drive to Versailles. The guide provides engaging stories about the palace’s past inhabitants and its significance in French history. Arriving around 2:00 PM, visitors are led through the Versailles Palace using skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide.

Inside, the highlight is the Hall of Mirrors, where sunlight reflects off ornate chandeliers and golden accents. The Royal Apartments impress with their grandeur, and the guided visit allows personalized pacing—pause and linger at your favorite spots. The combination of live guide commentary and audio guides ensures a rich understanding of the palace’s legacy.

Exploring the Trianon Estates and Queen’s Hamlet

After the main palace tour, the itinerary moves to the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, both guided. The Big Trianon once served as a retreat for French royalty, with its elegant neoclassical architecture and storied past. The Small Trianon, favored by Marie Antoinette, offers a quieter setting with charming architecture and lush grounds.

Following this, a visit to the Hamlet de la Reine reveals a quaint village designed for leisure, complete with rustic cottages, a lake, and gardens. This part of the tour provides a glimpse into the more private, pastoral side of royal life, contrasting with the opulence of the main palace.

More Great Tours Nearby

Strolling Through Versailles Gardens and Fountains

In the late afternoon, around 5:00 PM, guests are free to wander the Versailles Gardens. With 105 minutes allocated, visitors can admire the meticulously manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and statues. During summer months, musical fountains operate, creating a symphony of water and music that heightens the experience.

Walking through the gardens offers ample photo opportunities and moments of quiet reflection amidst the landscape’s beauty. The guide might share details about the garden design and hidden corners, enriching the leisurely stroll.

Return Journey to Paris and Final Drop-Off

The tour departs Versailles around 6:30 PM, with a 40-minute to 1-hour drive back to Paris, depending on traffic. Arriving around 7:30 PM, the trip concludes with drop-off at the hotel, wrapping up an 11.5-hour journey through French royal history and architecture.

The Comfort of Private Transportation and Guided Expertise

This tour’s private setup ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for small groups seeking an intimate experience. The Mercedes E220 or minivan guarantees a comfortable ride throughout the day, with bottled water provided for refreshment. The live English guide adds depth to the visits, providing context and answering questions in real time.

The skip-the-line tickets are especially valuable during busy seasons, saving significant time and allowing a more relaxed tour pace. The tiered pricing offers flexibility depending on your group size, making it accessible for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to those who value comprehensive visits combined with personalized service. History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone keen to see both Fontainebleau and Versailles in one day will find this experience rewarding. The inclusion of guided tours and audio guides ensures an informative trip without feeling rushed.

However, the tour’s length and packed schedule might challenge those with limited mobility or visitors wanting a more relaxed pace. It is suitable for those comfortable with walking and spending a full day exploring.

Final Thoughts on the Fontainebleau and Versailles Private Trip

The private Fontainebleau, Versailles, Trianon from Paris offers an efficient and thorough way to see two of France’s most famous royal sites. The expert-guided approach combined with skip-the-line tickets maximizes your time and knowledge. The luxury transportation makes the long day comfortable, and the flexible itinerary caters to individual interests.

While the schedule is full, the experience feels personalized and insightful, especially with the chance to explore the gardens and hamlets at your own pace. This tour is an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore the royal history of France with comfort and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, skip-the-line tickets to Fontainebleau and Versailles, guided tours, audio guides, access to gardens and Trianons, and bottled water.

Can I choose the vehicle type?
Yes, the tour uses a Mercedes E220 for 2-3 people or a Mercedes minivan for groups of 3-7 people**, depending on your group size.

Is there a lunch break included?
Yes, there is a lunch break scheduled around 12:00 PM in Fontainebleau. You can dine at a recommended local restaurant or have free time.

What are the main highlights of the visit?
Highlights include Fontainebleau Palace, Versailles Palace, Gardens, Hall of Mirrors, Big and Small Trianon, and the Hamlet de la Reine.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 6 years old and is not recommended for wheelchair users.

What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

Are tickets included, or do I need to buy them separately?
Tickets are included, with skip-the-line access to all sites.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the dates, but you can check current availability when booking.

How much walking is involved?
Guests should wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking through gardens, palace interiors, and grounds.

This private day trip combines the grandeur of France’s royalty with the convenience of guided luxury, making it a compelling choice for a full-day exploration of Fontainebleau and Versailles.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby