Vaux le Vicomte: A Perfect Day Trip from Paris

Paris is a beautiful city with so much to do! Unfortunately, most other tourists are interested in the same things you are. After the main tourist attractions, it’s nice to get some space away from the crowds. A day trip from Paris gets you outside of the city and, hopefully, the space you need after the masses in Paris.

Versailles is an incredible experience, but it feels like the crowds from Paris follow you there. I’ll never forget hopping off the train in Versailles in 2018 with everyone else making their way to the palace. It was a foot race because you knew every person you beat to the ticket window was one less person you were stuck behind on your visit. We took the first train of the day, too, so it wasn’t even super busy! So much for getting away from the people! To truly get away from the crowds, check out Vaux-le-Vicomte. In 2019 we had the place almost to ourselves!

What is Vaux-le-Vicomte?

Vaux-le-Vicomte is unique because it was privately owned until 1968. It is still decorated and furnished much like it would have been during the 17th century. The chateau is preserved and presented in a way that makes it come alive. Versailles is over-the-top, but Vaux-le-Vicomte is believable.

Who built it?

It was the home of Nicolas Fouquet. I didn’t know who he was, but he’s an intriguing guy. He was the finance minister at the beginning of the reign of Louis XIV, the king who commissioned Versailles. Fouquet made a fortune for himself but was convicted of embezzlement. The whole story is interesting. Take advantage of the audio tour at the chateau to hear the entire thing. As you listen, you can decide for yourself.

The Gardens & Stables

The gardens at Vaux-le-Vicomte are paralleled only by the gardens in Versailles. As it turns out, Louis XIV copied Fouquet. Fouquet hired an incredible team to create the gardens at Vaux-le-Vicomte. Louis XIV would later commission the exact same team to design and build the gardens at Versailles. As you walk around, you’ll definitely see and feel the similarities.

The stables are now a carriage museum, just like at Versailles. This museum is free and includes carriages and some staged scenes about caring for horses during the time. You won’t find the collection of royal carriages available in Versailles. This is more interesting for kids, but if you’ve already seen the one in Versailles, you can skip this one and not feel like you’ve missed out on much.

Getting to Vaux-le-Vicomte

Vaux-le-Vicomte is located about 50 km outside of Paris. You can drive there, but it’s easily accessible by train for visitors.

From Paris Gare de Lyon take the RER R Train to Melun. The journey is just under 30 minutes. A shuttle will take you from the station in Melun to the property.

Note: Due to COVID, the shuttle may not be running. It’s a 10-minute drive, so you can easily take an UBER or cab. You’ll also need a green pass and a face mask to visit the property.

Entrance to Vaux-le-Vicomte

Reservations are now required to enter the property. Note your tour time and make sure you take the train from Paris early enough to be at the property for your slot. Tickets are €16.90 for adults and €11 for kids.

Special Offerings at Vaux-Le-Vicomte

For Kids and Silly Adults

• Rent period costumes to wear as you tour the gardens. Dress as the residents of the 17th century would have to get yourself into the place’s vibe.
• Find a treasure hunt and lawn games in the gardens each day for a fun adventure as you explore the property.
• Rent a cart to explore the gardens.
• Easter Egg hunts at the beginning of April.

For Couples

The chateau boasts a unique candlelit evening. On Saturday (and some Friday) evenings, Vaux-le-Vicomte is lit by 2,000 candles. Explore in the soft romantic light as the property comes into itself. Outside, the fountains put on a water show. Tickets for these events are sold separately from other entrances, so select the correct ticket when purchasing. The water show and candlelit evening tickets are €19.90.

This experience is memorable and certainly one you’ll remember. Just be sure to leave in time to make the last train back to Paris. The staff help with this and end the evening events to give you a chance to get back, but you should certainly be aware of the time.

Vaux-le-Vicomte is a lovely experience made even better because you’ll be able to experience it without the crowds of people and tour buses that plague Versailles. Check it out!

If you rent one of those period costumes, drop me a picture! I’m not so bold!

Check out Provins or Fontainebleau for another off-the-beaten-path day trip from Paris.