Spring holidays 2026 in Versailles Grand Parc: our top ideas for things to do

Family-friendly guided tours with the Tourist Office

Looking to experience Versailles in a different way? Our guides take you off the beaten path with tours designed especially for younger visitors.

• Behind the scenes of the Royal Stables (April 18): An exclusive tour to discover what goes on behind the scenes at the Great Stables and the Royal Equestrian Academy.

• Storytelling walk “Mysterious Versailles” (April 29): Follow actress Roxane as she reveals the hidden side of Versailles and its famous gossip. A fun and unusual walk through the city streets to explore its history differently.

• ​And much more… Many other themed tours are waiting for you to discover the local heritage.

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Creative workshops and cultural outings

During the holidays, the destination offers a wide range of workshops designed especially for children. It’s the perfect opportunity for your kids to have fun while discovering new things in the cultural venues of Versailles Grand Parc.

• Espace Richaud (April 23): Workshop tour “Boats and marine animals” (ages 6–10). A fun immersion to explore the current exhibition, followed by a creative session.

• Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum (April 26): In the morning, children and parents can enjoy the “Little Botanists” workshop (ages 4–5), an introduction to the secrets of trees. In the afternoon, the “Young Botanists” workshop (ages 6–8) invites kids to deepen their knowledge in a natural setting.

• Musée de la Toile de Jouy (April 28): Creative workshops to discover the secrets of printed fabrics and try your hand at the iconic patterns of Toile de Jouy.

• Musée Lambinet: Enjoy a family-friendly experience with creative workshops for children and themed guided tours, a fun way to explore this beautiful 18th-century townhouse. Full program available here.

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The Estate of the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles Estate also comes alive during the holidays! Take advantage of spring to rediscover this iconic site through experiences and shows for all ages.

• Royal Holidays: A family-friendly event featuring interactive activities to explore the history of the Palace in a different way. On site, enjoy a relaxation area with a reading corner, podcasts and a postcard-making space.

• The Grand and Petit Trianon: Discover these elegant country residences nestled in blooming gardens—perfect for a more peaceful and intimate stroll.

• The Queen’s Hamlet: A must-see countryside walk around the lake, where you can admire Marie-Antoinette’s charming cottages and farm animals.

• The Musical Fountains Show and Musical Gardens: Experience the magic of the fountains set to baroque music in the heart of the Gardens of the Palace of Versailles. Don’t forget to book your tickets online in advance to save time.

Equestrian show: The Way of the Rider

Come and admire the work of the riders from the National Equestrian Academy of the Palace of Versailles. Created by Bartabas, this performance showcases Haute École dressage through a dialogue between equestrian art and other artistic disciplines. A poetic and captivating moment of grace and virtuosity.

A little extra: Each performance is followed by a self-guided visit of the Stables—an opportunity to explore this historic venue and get a closer look at the Academy’s horses.

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Activities & leisure

For those who want to get active, be creative or simply relax, our local partners offer a wide range of experiences. From waterside outings to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone and every age.

• Céramicafé Geneviève Versailles: Paint your own ceramics during open sessions, enjoy a creative snack break, join parent-child workshops—or even try the “wizard school”!

• Cool Beans: Holiday camps, drawing clubs and creative workshops for young people to express their imagination.

• Téma Création: Hands-on craft workshops to discover new skills and techniques.

• Marin d’Eau Douce: Rent an electric boat (no license required) for a unique ride on the Grand Canal.

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Esprit Jardin in Versailles: the (free) must-attend event for garden lovers

The unmissable spring highlight

The major free event dedicated to nature returns on April 25 and 26 in the heart of the Saint-Louis district. This year is even more special as it celebrates the 400th anniversary of Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie, the creator of the King’s Kitchen Garden.

• A unique walking route: For the occasion, the Anjou and King’s gates will exceptionally open! Enjoy a seamless and free itinerary connecting the historic Saint-Louis district, Parc Balbi, the King’s Kitchen Garden and the Swiss Water Piece.

• Evening opening at the King’s Kitchen Garden: For the very first time, experience a magical night-time stroll in the heart of the gardens (Saturday evening).

• Activities & flower market: Children’s workshops, gardening advice, and a large market of growers and artisans to celebrate spring.

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 Nature walks

Looking to unwind? Take advantage of the many trails in Versailles Grand Parc for a breath of fresh air, between countryside paths and royal parks.

• The King’s Kitchen Garden: A unique historic site for a botanical and gourmet stroll, following in the footsteps of Louis XIV’s gardeners.

• Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum: A true 200-hectare “forest museum”, perfect for a full immersion among remarkable trees.

• The Plaine de Versailles: Set off on an adventure along rural paths between Rennemoulin and Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche, for a getaway through fields and charming villages.

• The Bièvre Valley: A peaceful countryside escape along the water, perfect for a scenic walk through meadows and shaded woodland paths.

• The Seine Hillsides: Head up to higher ground and enjoy panoramic views, where nature meets forest trails.

• The Swiss Water Piece: The perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a picnic with a view over the Palace’s Orangerie.

On foot or by bike, the destination offers a wide range of routes and places to explore for your outdoor adventures.

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