Originally Posted by
FTraveler
Several years ago, I took the RER with my wife and avoided the long lines - used the Museum Pass which had a special entrance. We rented audio guides, purchased a guide book and moved about at our own pace. We took a leisurely stroll through the town of Versailles near the rail station and had a nice lunch at a sidewalk cafe - can't remember the name or exact location.
Totally agree - this is the way to go. The audio guide is excellent and you can go at your own pace. Had a lot of tour guides zipping past me to stay on schedule. Only thing you give up is the ability to ask questions but the audio guide is pretty thorough. The Museum Pass is a big help with entering here. Also, make sure you go to whichever of the two RER stations is closest to the chateau (don't have my guide handy so I cannot tell you which is which so I don't want to name the wrong one) - the other one is a hike.