Exceptional weekend openings Exceptional weekend openings

The Palace of Versailles is pleased to offer exceptional weekend tours during high season. From the Congress Chamber to the apartments of General De Gaulle at Trianon Sous Bois, or the Stables, don't miss this opportunity to discover another face of Versailles less well known. 

the congress chamber

The Palace of Versailles opens the Congress Chamber to mark the 150th anniversary of the Third Republic.

The Congress Chamber was built in 1875 in just 6 months, and seats 1,500, making it larger than the National Assembly and Senate. The hall is a typical example of the official architecture of the Third Republic. Its style is both electric and sumptuous, inspired by the decor of Louis XIV. From 1875 to 1953, no fewer than sixteen Presidents of the Republic were elected here. Today, it is the venue for Congressional meetings, i.e. those of deputies and senators, during constitutional revisions presidential addresses or constitutional revisions, as was the case on March 4, 2024 for the inclusion of voluntary interruption of pregnancy (abortion law) in the Constitution. 

The apartment of the President of Congress located at the end of the South wing built at the same time, is also open to the public. It features neo-Louis XV decor, a style familiar from Versailles. The National Assembly returned the apartment to the Palace of Versailles in 2006. You will discover the appartment at the end of the tour.

the gallery of coaches

The Gallery of Coaches is located within the Great Stables. Here you'll find majestic carriages, Marie-Antoinette's children's carriages, and sleighs forming a strange and wonderful bestiary... These works are an exceptional testimony to Court life and its splendors. Veritable masterpieces of total art, these carriages combine ostentatious luxury and craftsmanship. Richly decorated with gold and sculptures, they were made by the finest craftsmen of the time. Used for slow, majestic royal processions, they impressed with their splendor, surrounded by an amazed crowd, adorned horses and the sound of hooves echoing on the cobblestones.

practical informations

Self-guided tours are available with a Palace (Congress Chamber) and/or Trianon ticket (for General de Gaulle's apartment) or a Passport ticket (to access all the estate). For a guided tour, please reserve a guided tour ticket of your choice in addition to your admission fee. 

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