Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte Christmas tour and chateaubus shuttle

Your day trip to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, about one hour outside of Paris, starts with a 35-minute direct train ride from Gare de L'est in the city to the Verneuil L'Etang station on RER Line P (train tickets at your own expense). When you arrive at the local station, your provided shuttle will take you through the countryside to the castle.

The grandiose and awe-inspiring Château de Vaux-de-Vicomte is one of Europe's most influential and significant architectural landmarks—the inspiration behind the Palace of Versailles. It was built between 1658 and 1661 for Nicolas Fouquet, the finance minister for King Louis XIV. Architect Louis Le Vau, landscape architect André le Nôtre, and painter-decorator Charles Le Brun worked together on Fouquet's large-scale project for the first time. Their collaboration marked the beginning of the 'Louis XIV' style, combining architecture, interior design, and landscape design, the same combination you see at Versailles.

On arrival, one hour later, take in spectacular views of the chateau and gardens before stepping inside to start your tour of the most amazing Christmas decorated rooms you will have seen.

You will admire the many sumptuous furnishings, lavishly gilded walls and beautiful tapestries. Stroll through the exquisite private apartments and state rooms, and imagine how life would have played out here during the 17th century.

Each room has been lavishly decorated for Christmas with different schemes and different colours: crackling fire places, Christmas trees, fairy lights, gorgeous decorations will all enchant you.

Children can dress up in 17th-century costumes to play at being princes, princesses, musketeers, dukes and duchesses, and enjoy the festive decorations and illuminations to the full.

If you fancy a bite to eat, head to the castle’s restaurant where a selection of light meals can be purchased (own expense). When your time at the castle is up, take the shuttle back to the train station and head back to Paris.