Small palace in Versailles
Because I recently saw the movie Marie Antoinette, I felt I must see Versailles again. I went for the first time in the winter with my friend, Sasha. Our original intention was to see the palace, but upon arrival we felt the 20 euro fee was too costly. We opted to walk around the grounds instead. The gardens were pretty even in the winter, but I really wanted to see the fountains and the floral attractions which are only available in the summer. The weather was perfect on Saturday, so off I went.
Inner court yard in Versailles.
It was BEAUTIFUL. The kings’ and queens’ chambers are amazing. The décor is marvelous, but most of the rooms are unoriginal, having been through many restorations. The rooms are massive and intricate with a ton of very pricy artwork everywhere. It is amazing to think of how much money was spent on such things. There are “original” pieces which were specifically made for certain kings or queens.
Hall in Queen's palace.
However, the gardens are the best part! The fountains are unbelievable! I can’t even begin to imagine how they used to look when they ran all day. Now they only run on the weekends from 11-12 and 3:30-5:00. There is music playing throughout the gardens when the fountains are turned on to add to the atmosphere. They were really worth admission.
My future bedroom.
All the positive being said, I will mention the negative. I think 20 euros is a little excessive to see a palace. I have seen others just as impressive which cost less (Germany). Also, food is really over priced in the garden, and everything else is about 2 miles away. However, my biggest pet peeve was the fact I had to pay to use the toilet. I dished out a lot of money to see a palace and then I had to pay 50 cents to use the bathroom every time I needed to go. I know it isn’t a lot, but I just think the toilets should be free after you pay that kind of entrance fee.
Queen's Hamlet
I think I would definitely recommend Versailles for people on an extended visit of Paris; it will eat up a day’s worth of sightseeing and, for this reason, probably better visited on a Sunday. It isn’t a necessary visit, but it is worth it if you are going to be in the area for more than a week.
Fountains at Versailles. I wish I could post all of my pictures of these, but they would just take up too much room.
9 comments:
I am sooo jealous of you!!! I have always wanted to see Europe-especially Paris. I love the pictures on your website, they really do seem to do the buildings and sights of Paris justice. =)
The gardens are incredible. I've never been to versailles so this is cool. And nice hall pic, I love it.. But you're right, so pricey.
How exciting you got to see Versailles, not once, but TWICE! Lucky you!!! I am going to have to show these pics and the write up to my daughter, she has always wanted to visit the Palace in Versailles. Brilliant photos as usual, thanks Angela!
Wow! That place looks spectacular. And the fountains are gorgeous. Versailles has never particularly been on my list of places I'd like to visit but your pictures make me think it should be.
Wow! It's beautiful!
=) Well California is nice, but not nearly as nice as PARIS! =) My dream one day is to move to Paris for like a year or two, get a job there, and just LIVE. =) My aunt lives in....a city that begins with a G..LOL. I can't think of the name. Anyway I would love to visit someday.
Where did you want to live in CA?
BTw, how much is 20 euro in U.S dollars?
Lindy-20 euros is about 24 dollars; I have always wanted to live in San Fransico or San Diego.
Expat-Thanks. Everything is expensive in France. Is it the same way in Switzerland?
Lotus-You should go if you get a chance.
Julie-Watch the movie when it comes out.
Diamond and Moment-Thanks!
you rock! we are studying about france in my class and your blog helped me out so much.
Post a Comment