Palace of Versailles

"This mind-blowing historic marvel is one of France's most opulent jewels, and is crucial to understanding the country's history and a very specific moment of leadership. A 17th century Château and estate that spans over 800 hectares (1,977 acres), The Sun King's grand creation is open for visits year-round and includes bedrooms, the King's state apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and some 2,300 rooms in total. Annual summer exhibitions highlight the works of prominent contemporary artists like Jeff Koons, Anish Kapoor, and Olafur Eliasson, whose art is displayed in the sprawling gardens. The old and new come together beautifully, a nod to its initial mission to support artistic creations." - Lindsey Tramuta, Mary Winston Nicklin

"There were brunches in Versailles and horseback trail rides, which sounded fun but not exactly what I was looking for."

"France - U.S. travelers can visit France with proof of vaccination without any other requirements. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers can enter the country if they present a negative test result from within 48 to 72 hours of departure or proof that they recovered from COVID in the last six months."

"Without a doubt Versailles is the most luxurious palace in Europe, built to astound visitors and impress the king'ssubjectsinto awed submission with crystal chandeliers, gilt, and fine art. This opulent monument is also attractive tothose with simpler tastes:Visitorswith green thumbs will love the king’s kitchen gardens while othersmay want to rent bicycles to pedalthe lavish grounds, and animal lovers will enjoy the sheep, goats, and chickensreceiving the royal treatment at the queen’s quainthamlet. La Petite Venise, an excellent restaurant on the grounds, offers garden seating onsunny days."

"The French court and royal residence housed France’s royalty from 1682 until the French Revolution a century later. The enormous palace positively drips in gold, an absolutely over-the-top excess of riches. On your virtual tour of this blinged-out space, sashay (virtually) through the staggering Hall of Mirrors and the lovely sculpture garden." - Sophie Friedman