As a Fasner activity, I receive a commission for purchases made through the links.
This post is all about the [Private] Versailles Palace + Paris City Tour (France Tourism Board & Ministry of Transport Approved Travel Agency) that I've been so excited to share!
It's designed for you to enjoy special places and captivating experiences at your own pace.
Wishing you a safe and wonderful journey, I'm here cheering you on!
Planning a Trip to Paris Soon?
Oh, Paris!
Just the name conjures images of romance, art, and timeless beauty, doesn't it?
If you're anything like me, you dream of wandering through historical streets, admiring masterpieces, and soaking in that inimitable Parisian charm.
But let's be real, planning a trip to such a popular destination can feel a bit overwhelming.
The sheer amount of things to see, the endless queues, and navigating public transport in a foreign city can quickly turn a dream into a logistical nightmare.
That's precisely why I started looking into private tours, especially for my recent trip with my family.
I wanted to maximize our time, ensure everyone was comfortable, and truly experience Paris, not just rush through it.
This particular tour, the Private Versailles Palace + Paris City Tour, caught my eye because it promised not just convenience, but genuine expertise and, crucially, safety with a fully licensed agency.
It felt like the perfect antidote to the usual travel stresses, allowing us to delve into the heart of Paris and Versailles without missing a beat, creating memories rather than just ticking off a list.
Click here to compare various travel products in Paris on MyRealTrip.
👉 [Compare Travel Products]
Why This Tour is an Absolute Gem
So, what makes this Private Versailles & Paris City Tour truly stand out from the rest?
For me, it boiled down to a few key factors that made all the difference.
First and foremost, peace of mind.
As a frequent traveler, I've learned that having a reliable and officially recognized tour operator is invaluable.
'Paris Saem' is not just any agency; they are the only Korean travel agency fully licensed by both the French Tourism Board (IM092110068) and the Ministry of Transport (EVTC 092170710).
This means they meet all legal requirements, are insured, and operate with legitimate, authorized vehicles.
No sketchy freelancers, just pure professionalism.
Then there’s the comfort.
Imagine skipping the stress of crowded public transport, especially with family or if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
Their 8-9 seater vans ensure a cozy ride, conquering the city's infamous traffic with an experienced driver.
And the guides!
These aren't just tour guides; they are 'true Parisians' with deep knowledge of French history, culture, and daily life.
They don't just recite facts; they weave stories, making each monument come alive.
They’ve been operating since 2000, building a reputation for VIP service and quality, which truly shows in their attention to detail and ability to craft a seamless, unforgettable day.
Tour Highlights & What Makes it Special
Let's dive into the specifics that make this tour a winner!
The biggest highlight for me is the absolute assurance that comes with booking through 'Paris Saem.'
They proudly hold official licenses from both the French Tourism Board and the Ministry of Transport.
We're talking about a legitimate, fully insured operation, not just a registered business.
This means you’re not only getting top-tier service but also incredible peace of mind, especially regarding vehicle safety and guide professionalism.
They use comfortable 8-9 seater vans, perfect for small groups or families, ensuring a smooth ride through Paris's bustling streets.
What truly elevates the experience are the guides themselves.
These aren't just people who know a script; they are seasoned 'Paris Saem' veterans, many with academic backgrounds in French literature, art history, and even architecture.
They bring France's rich history and vibrant culture to life with passion and expertise.
Whether it’s Mr. Shin Yong-chul, the agency representative and a licensed guide, or Ms. Lee Ji-yeon, the local media artist and photographer, each guide offers a unique perspective.
This level of expertise transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a deep dive into the heart and soul of France.
They make sure you understand not just what you're seeing, but why it's significant, leaving you with a much richer understanding and appreciation.
My Perfect Day in Paris & Versailles
Okay, let me walk you through what your day could look like, based on my incredible experience with this tour!
We started bright and early, with our comfortable van picking us up directly from our accommodation in Paris – no stress of finding meeting points!
Our first stop was the magical Montmartre Hill, with its stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the charming artists' square, Place du Tertre.
Our guide brought the history of this bohemian hub to life with fascinating stories.
Next, we zipped over to admire the exterior of the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, still awe-inspiring even during its restoration, and then a quick photo op outside the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookstore (a must-see for any book lover!).
Around lunchtime, our guide gave us fantastic options: a lovely meal in Paris city center or a more relaxed picnic vibe in the gardens of Versailles, which we chose for the atmosphere!
The afternoon was dedicated to the grandeur of Versailles Palace and its breathtaking gardens.
While inside the palace, we enjoyed the freedom of an audio guide, and then explored the vast gardens.
Finally, we made our way to the Trocadéro Gardens (Chaillot Palace) for the ultimate Eiffel Tower photo opportunity – our guide knew all the best angles!
The day concluded perfectly, with the option to be dropped off at our hotel or, for a grand finale, a beautiful Seine River cruise.
It was a packed day, but thanks to the private transport and expert guidance, it felt seamless and utterly unforgettable.
Unveiling Paris: Key Locations
Let's talk about the incredible spots you’ll visit on this tour, each with its own story!
Montmartre Hill & Sacré-Cœur Basilica: This is truly the 'hill of martyrs,' and being at the highest point in Paris gives you breathtaking views.
Our guide painted vivid pictures of Picasso and other artists who found inspiration in its winding, narrow streets.
The Sacré-Cœur is simply majestic, a beacon over the city.
Notre Dame Cathedral: Even from the outside, this Gothic masterpiece on the Île de la Cité is a testament to resilience and beauty.
Our guide shared stories of its history and the ongoing restoration, making us appreciate its enduring spirit.
It’s truly the heart of Paris.
Shakespeare and Company Bookstore: A legendary English-language bookstore with a rich history, once frequented by literary giants like Hemingway.
It’s more than just a bookstore; it’s a living monument to literature.
My photo outside its quaint facade is a treasured memory.
Versailles Palace and Gardens: Oh, the sheer opulence!
This UNESCO World Heritage site, built by Louis XIV, is a feast for the senses.
The Hall of Mirrors left me speechless, and wandering through the vast, meticulously sculpted gardens felt like stepping into a royal dream.
Our guide’s insights into the monarchy’s life here were captivating.
Eiffel Tower Photo Spot (Chaillot Palace): You haven't truly seen the Eiffel Tower until you've seen it from Chaillot Palace.
This spot offers the most iconic, postcard-perfect views, and our guide knew exactly where to stand for those 'insta-worthy' shots.
It’s the perfect grand finale to a day of Parisian wonders!
My Travel Hacks & What to Pack
After experiencing this tour firsthand, I’ve got some insider tips to make your trip even smoother!
Comfort is Key: You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, especially at Versailles, so comfy shoes are a non-negotiable!
Trust me, your feet will thank you.
Layer Up: Parisian weather can be unpredictable.
Layers are your best friend, allowing you to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
Small Bag Only: A huge tip from the tour operator: avoid bringing large luggage or suitcases on the tour.
Paris, unfortunately, has evolved pickpocketing techniques targeting bags in vehicles.
Leave your main luggage safely at your hotel.
This ensures peace of mind and keeps the tour flowing smoothly.
Stay Hydrated & Snacky: While lunch is planned, having a water bottle and some small snacks is always a good idea, especially during transitions or if you get peckish between meals.
Listen to Your Guide: Our 'Paris Saem' guide was a treasure trove of information and practical advice.
They know the city inside out and can offer tips on everything from the best photo spots to avoiding tourist traps.
Camera Ready: You'll want to capture every moment, so make sure your phone or camera is fully charged (and maybe a power bank!).
The photo opportunities, especially at Montmartre, Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower, are simply stunning.
Small Euros: Always handy for quick purchases or restrooms.
Following these little tips will ensure you have an absolutely delightful and stress-free day exploring Paris and Versailles!
Beyond This Tour: More Paris Saem Adventures
If, like me, you fall in love with the 'Paris Saem' experience, you'll be thrilled to know they offer a whole range of other fantastic tours!
Their expertise extends far beyond just this one private tour, catering to all sorts of interests and travel styles.
For those who love to explore on foot and delve deeper into specific neighborhoods, they have excellent Paris City Walking Tours covering gems like Montmartre, the Arc de Triomphe, and even an Eiffel Tower interior commentary tour.
If you prefer the comfort of a vehicle for more extensive city exploration, they offer several Paris City Vehicle Tours beyond the one I just reviewed, including more VIP private options and seasonal variations like the Versailles + Montmartre + Van Gogh Village tour in winter.
And for adventurers looking to explore beyond the city limits, their Paris Outskirts Tours are perfect!
Imagine day trips to Monet's Giverny, the historical Château de Fontainebleau, or even the stunning Château de Chantilly.
For longer excursions, they even offer Paris Long Distance Tours to iconic spots like Mont Saint-Michel, Bruges and Brussels in Belgium, or the beautiful Loire Valley castles.
They also do overnight trips for a more immersive experience.
Basically, if you have a dream for a French adventure, 'Paris Saem' probably has a perfectly curated, professionally guided tour for it!
It really speaks to their 25 years of experience and their commitment to providing truly exceptional travel experiences.
👉 [Book Your Tour Now]
Wrapping Up My Parisian Adventure
Wow, what an incredible journey it was to revisit my memories of this Private Versailles Palace + Paris City Tour!
Honestly, it was one of the best decisions I made for our trip.
The combination of complete safety, unparalleled comfort in our private vehicle, and the sheer depth of knowledge shared by our 'Paris Saem' guide truly transformed our Parisian experience.
Gone was the stress of navigating, the worry about crowds, and the fear of missing out.
Instead, we had a day filled with laughter, discovery, and breathtaking beauty, all curated just for us.
From the charming streets of Montmartre to the majestic halls of Versailles and the iconic sparkle of the Eiffel Tower, every moment felt special and personal.
If you're dreaming of a trip to Paris, especially if you're traveling with family, on a honeymoon, or simply value a hassle-free, enriching experience, I cannot recommend this tour enough.
It's an investment in memories that will last a lifetime, supported by a truly professional and passionate team.
So go ahead, treat yourself to the magic of Paris, guided by the very best!
Real Stories from Fellow Travelers
You know, when I book a tour, I always scour the reviews, and let me tell you, the feedback for 'Paris Saem' is consistently amazing.
My own experience echoed so many others!
I remember one family, a group of six with elderly parents, who said their guide, Kim Gi-hyun, made their trip so comfortable and stress-free.
They raved about his kind tone, deep knowledge, and how he even took fantastic photos of their entire group.
They felt so grateful for the wonderful memories created, and I completely get that feeling.
Another couple shared that even though the private tour was an investment, it was the 'best choice' they made for their Paris trip, specifically praising Guide Kim Gi-hyun’s extensive knowledge and photography skills.
They hoped to meet him again on a future tour, which just goes to show the lasting impression he made.
I also saw reviews from people like me who opted for a private tour to see many places in a short time.
They absolutely loved the flexibility to adjust the itinerary and how professional and friendly their guide was.
They even mentioned getting 'life-shot' photos at secret spots only locals know, which I can totally relate to!
The depth of historical knowledge and the warmth of the guides, like Shin Yong-chul, really came through in many stories, turning simple sightseeing into a truly enriching experience.
It's clear that 'Paris Saem' consistently delivers on its promise of comfort, knowledge, and unforgettable moments for every kind of traveler.
