How to Visit the Palace of Versailles for Free or at a Reduced Price (Updated Guide)

Visiting the Palace of Versailles doesn’t have to be expensive. Thanks to multiple free admission programs, reduced ticket options, and annual passes, many visitors can access the Château de Versailles and its vast estate for free or at a discounted price throughout the year.

However, availability can change quickly — especially for free entry days. Below is the most up-to-date guide, including important booking alerts for February and March.

Free Admission to the Palace of Versailles: Who Is Eligible?

You may qualify for 100% free entry all year round to the Palace of Versailles and the entire estate (Palace, Trianon, and Gardens), depending on your situation.

🎟️ Free Admission All Year for:

• EU residents under 26 years old

• Visitors under 18 years old (including non-EU residents)

• Teachers with a valid Pass Éducation

• Visitors with disabilities + one companion

• Job seekers and recipients of social benefits (proof required)

Free admission applies to the Palace, the Trianon Estate, and the Gardens, subject to mandatory online reservation.

Free Entry for Everyone: First Sunday of the Month (November to March Only)

The Palace of Versailles offers free admission to all visitors on the first Sunday of each month, but only from November through March.

🗓️ Important Booking Updates:

• February 1st is fully booked for the Palace

  • ✅ Only the Domaine de Trianon still has availability

• March 1st free Sunday reservations open on February 15th

  • 📌 Mark your calendar — these slots tend to sell out very quickly

👉 Even on free days, online reservation with a time slot is mandatory to enter the Palace.

Free Gardens and Outdoor Areas

Even without a Palace ticket, large parts of the Versailles estate can be enjoyed completely free of charge:

• 🌳 Gardens of Versailles: free every day except during Musical Fountain Shows and Musical Gardens

• 🚶‍♂️ Park of Versailles, Domaine de Marly, and Gallery of Coaches: free year-round (subject to opening days)

This makes Versailles an excellent option for budget travelers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Reduced Ticket Prices: Affordable Ways to Visit Versailles

If you’re not eligible for full free admission, reduced-price tickets offer excellent value.

💸 Reduced Rates Available For:

• Passport ticket (Palace + Estate): approx. €12–€13

• Domaine de Trianon ticket: approx. €8

• Available to:

  • Large family card holders

  • Members of museum friends associations

  • Visitors using ANCV holiday vouchers

These discounts significantly lower the cost compared to standard entry prices.

Free Audio Guide & Official Mobile App

• 📱 Free audio guide available for certain eligible visitors

• 📲 Official Versailles mobile app (free) includes:

  • Self-guided tours

  • Interactive maps

  • Detailed historical explanations

A great way to enhance your visit without paying extra.

Best Value for Repeat Visitors: “1 Year at Versailles” Pass

If you plan to visit Versailles multiple times in a year, the “1 Year at Versailles” SOLO or DUO pass is one of the best cultural deals in France.

💡 Annual Pass Benefits:

• Unlimited access for one year

• Skip-the-line entry

• Prices start at €65 per year

• Ideal for locals, expats, and frequent visitors

After just a few visits, the pass often pays for itself.

Reservation Rules: What You Need to Know

👉 Online reservation is required in most cases, including for free tickets.

• You must select a specific time slot for Palace entry

• Proof of eligibility is required at the entrance

• Reservations are made via the official Palace of Versailles website

Final Verdict: A Smart Way to Visit Versailles for Less

Between year-round free entry for eligible visitors, free first Sundays from November to March, and discounted tickets, visiting the Palace of Versailles can be surprisingly affordable.

Just remember:

• February 1st Palace tickets are sold out (Trianon only available)

• March 1st free Sunday bookings open February 15th

If you plan ahead and reserve early, this is clearly a top travel deal for Versailles visitors.

👉 Official details and reservations:
https://www.chateauversailles.fr/preparer-ma-visite/conditions-gratuite#gratuites