Paris

[JBlChic]

We are looking at getting a cottage in the French countryside during the summer.

We are staying not too far outside of Paris and wanted to take a trip to Palace of Versailles.

We were going to park at the Palace and once we are done, take a train into Paris, mainly just to see the Eiffel Tower, get some lunch. We have two small children so do not want to make a full day of running around Paris to sightsee.

There is a direct RER from the palace to the Eiffel Tower that takes. 25 mins. Do you think we would be ok to do this and leave the car at the palace? Obviously going back for it after a few hours...

I’d check your dates against those of the Olympics, personally - it will be very busy during the games on public transport and in Paris (don’t know where the actual events are taking place but would suggest you look into that too).

Also, Versailles itself is a full day out (and will also be very busy) so you might want to look into doing that separately and find some parking near a station.

Versailles is huge. It easily takes a full day. If you have small children there are also playgrounds and lots of gardens to explore. The train is quick but the Eiffel Tower usually has queues even if you book. I'd say it's too much to do in a day. Plus there's the Olympics to consider.

You’ll spend a whole day at Versailles — it’s enormous. Definitely not combinable with nipping into Paris to another insanely busy tourist attraction. And yes, as a pp said, check how your plans may be affected by Olympics.

Forgot to say some for the equine events are taking place at Versailles — dressage, I think, and maybe showjumping, and from what I vaguely remember friends who live nearby saying maybe cross-country in the park?

Thanks everyone! I think we will look to do it on separate days then. The Olympics finish on the 11th August which is the day we are planning to drive over so hopefully not as busy thereafter.

Bear in mind the Paralympics will be using the same equestrian arenas at Versailles, and those don’t start till later in August.