Versailles Revolution Tour – 1789

If you’re visiting Versailles and eager to see beyond the opulent palace walls, the Versailles Revolution Tour – 1789 offers a compelling journey into the events that shook France. For just $41 per person, you join a lively, 2-hour walk led by a knowledgeable guide, Baptiste, who brings history vividly to life. Starting from the Louis XIV equestrian statue in Arms Square, you’ll step back into 1789, becoming a deputy at the General Estates and witnessing the sparks of the French Revolution firsthand.

What we love about this experience is how it combines interactive storytelling with visits to authentic sites that played roles in revolutionary history, like the Royal Tennis Court, where the famous Tennis Court Oath took place, and the Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs, where the revolution truly ignited. We also appreciated the inclusion of lesser-known spots, such as the Hôtel de Madame du Barry, offering a more intimate glimpse into royal life and dissent.

A potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include access to the Château itself, which might be a disappointment for those hoping to explore the palace’s interiors. However, for history enthusiasts keen on understanding the pre-revolutionary atmosphere and key moments in Versailles’ political landscape, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is perfect for travelers who value authentic stories, enjoy walking through historical sites, and want a personalized guide to connect the dots of France’s revolutionary origins. If you’re looking to go beyond the classic palace tour and see Versailles through the lens of 1789, this guided walk is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Focus: The tour emphasizes the beginnings of the French Revolution, not just the palace’s grandeur.
• Expert Guide: Baptiste’s extensive experience ensures detailed, engaging stories that make history accessible.
• Interactive Experience: You’ll take on the role of deputies, making history feel alive.
• Authentic Sites: Visits include significant places like the Royal Tennis Court and Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs.
• No Palace Entry: It does not include access to the Versailles castle itself, so plan accordingly.
• Good Value: At $41, the tour offers a focused, intimate experience with a reproduction of old Versailles maps included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Versailles Revolution Tour

The Location and Starting Point

We begin our journey in front of Louis XIV’s equestrian statue in Arms Square, a commanding spot that immediately immerses you in the grandeur of Versailles. This is the only designated meeting point, and it’s impossible to miss—a large, striking statue that sets the stage for what’s to come. The proximity to the castle means you’ll get a sense of the royal grounds while stepping into a different slice of history.

The Experience: A 2-hour Guided Walk

The core of this tour is a guided walk through Versailles that lasts about two hours. Baptiste, who has over 10 years of experience guiding in Versailles and gardens, guides you through the streets and landmarks, reconstructing 1789 with impressive detail. The walk is interactive—you’re made to feel like a deputy in the Estates-General, which adds a fun, immersive element to understanding the political tensions of the time.

During the tour, you’ll visit several sites with historical significance:

• Arms Square: Here, you’ll see where the procession for the opening of the General Estates took place, setting the revolutionary wheels in motion.

• Hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs: Known as the site where the French Revolution began, this place offers insight into the early sparks of dissent.

• Royal Tennis Court: The location of the famous Tennis Court Oath on June 20, 1789, marking a pivotal moment when the Third Estate vowed not to disband until they created a new constitution. This part is especially dramatic, as it captures the moment when the revolution became inevitable.

• Hôtel de Madame du Barry: The last favorite of Louis XV, this visit adds a royal personal touch, providing context about court life and the contrast with revolutionary unrest.

• Paris Avenue and the walk of the women: Here, the tour highlights the march of the women to Versailles, symbolizing the people’s direct involvement in demanding change.

• Former Foreign Affairs Hotel: The site where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending the American Revolutionary War, linking the American fight for independence with French revolutionary ideas.

The Historical Context

Baptiste’s storytelling makes the complex events of 1789 comprehensible. For instance, you’ll learn about Marie Antoinette, Louis XVI, and their roles in the mounting tensions, as well as how American independence influenced revolutionary France. The tour ties local events to broader global currents, like the American Revolution and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen.

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Authenticity and Insider Tips

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is Baptiste’s deep knowledge and his ability to bring stories to life. Reviewers mention how he “made history feel alive,” and some appreciated the personalized attention, as the tour often had only a few participants or was private, enabling a rich exchange of questions and insights.

The inclusion of reproductions of old Versailles maps at the end adds a tangible connection to the past, helping you visualize the city as it was in 1789. These thoughtful touches enhance the educational value of the experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

While the tour is rich in historical content, it’s important to remember that it does not include entry to the Château. If you wish to explore the interior, you’ll need to buy separate tickets. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and language options include English and French, making it flexible for different travelers.

The meeting point at the Louis XIV statue is straightforward, and the price of $41 covers everything, including the guided walk and the reproduction map. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience is particularly well-suited for visitors who want to connect the dots of history rather than just admire the palace’s grandeur. It’s ideal for those eager to understand the political and social upheaval that led to the French Revolution, set against the backdrop of Versailles’s grounds.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Baptiste’s passion and detailed storytelling making complex events accessible and engaging. The tour’s intimate scale and focus on less touristy sites make it a more authentic, meaningful experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history buff who appreciates context and storytelling, this tour will deepen your understanding of France’s revolutionary origins. It’s perfect if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a personalized exploration, especially given the reviews mentioning private tours and the opportunity to ask questions.

On the other hand, if you’re mainly interested in exploring inside the Versailles Palace, this tour might not be ideal, as it doesn’t include palace access. It works best as a complementary experience to a palace visit or for those wanting to explore the city of Versailles through its revolutionary sites.

The Sum Up

The Versailles Revolution Tour – 1789 offers an engaging, well-informed journey through a pivotal moment in history, all within the beautiful setting of Versailles. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a context-rich, personal encounter with the events that changed France and, ultimately, the world.

This tour’s strength lies in its expert storytelling, authentic sites, and affordable price, making history accessible and lively. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking tours with a focus on storytelling, and who appreciate guides who bring passion and expertise to their craft.

If you’re curious about the origins of revolutionary France and want to see Versailles through a different lens, this tour is a memorable way to deepen your understanding of the dramatic events of 1789.

FAQs

Does the tour include access to the inside of the Versailles palace?
No, this tour does not grant access to the interior of the palace. It focuses on the historical sites outside and the stories behind them.

How long is the tour?
The guided walk lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Louis XIV equestrian statue in Arms Square at Versailles.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English and French.

What is included in the price?
The guided tour and a reproduction of an old Versailles map are included; all costs are covered in the ticket price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, it can be engaging for younger visitors, especially with the role-playing element and stories, but it’s best suited for those with some interest in history.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

In short, the Versailles Revolution Tour offers an authentic, engaging snapshot of France’s revolutionary beginnings combined with the beauty and history of Versailles—perfect for travelers eager to see beyond the palace walls.

You can check availability for your dates here: