Trianon Palace Versailles

We first stayed at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles in 2019 and had such a wonderful experience that we came back in May 2026 and brought three generations of family with us. We were so excited to share this place with everyone. That excitement quickly gave way to frustration and disappointment at almost every turn. We had completed electronic check-in in advance, yet every member of our group was still required to check in at the front desk adding nearly 30 minutes upon arrival. This was during a heat wave with temperatures hitting 93°F / 34°C. Not a single glass of water or any refreshment was offered during that wait. For a 5-star property, that's simply inexcusable. Getting to our rooms was also oddly handled as we were routed through the basement and a tunnel rather than through the garden, which felt completely out of place for this type of hotel. The biggest issue: two of our rooms had no functioning air conditioning. We called multiple times before maintenance finally came up, confirmed the AC wasn't working, and suggested we move rooms. When we explained we needed to stay near our teenage children next door, their solution was to offer us a fan. Not air conditioning but a basic fan to blow around 85°F / 30°C air. We barely slept. This is not an acceptable response from a luxury resort during a heat wave. The next morning at breakfast, my mother waited nearly an hour for her eggs benedict. After following up, she waited even longer and the dish never came at all. We left early and checked into a lower-rated hotel that outperformed this one in every category that matters: comfort, service, and basic hospitality. That contrast made this experience even harder to excuse. We had such high hopes, especially bringing family who had never experienced this property. Instead of a highlight, it became the low point of our trip. We won't be returning.

The property itself is beautiful, concierge desk is helpful, wait staff is well trained. But what’s also table stakes is catering to (1) dietary needs and (2) avoiding safety problems. We did not find that to be the case. (1) Vegan food was unavailable even after 3 conversations with the food & beverage team before and during our stay. They are happy to charge for a breakfast, but unable to fulfill the promise of catering to what is now not a unique dietary needs. Why? (2) No showers. Really, only bathtubs. So if you’re on the top floor and you get up from the shower, you will hit your head hard, very hard. Their response, “let’s bring you some ice.” A lack of empathy and sincere hospitality. An arrogance that may continue to pay dividends for the “normal” guest until the generation evolves beyond the staid French elite. Lesson learned.

The property itself is beautiful, and the front desk team was warm, welcoming, and helpful throughout our stay. The rooms were lovely, comfortable, and well-appointed, and we especially appreciated how close the hotel is to Versailles—it was incredibly convenient to be able to walk there. Unfortunately, our experience at the terrace restaurant did not match the quality of the hotel. Our meal took over an hour and a half to arrive, and when we asked our server about the delay, the response was simply, "I don't know." Our Caesar salad arrived at the same time as our entrées, the canapés we ordered were forgotten entirely, and the steak was served well done despite being ordered differently. For a dinner that exceeded €300, we expected a much higher level of service and attention to detail. We also reached out afterward to discuss our experience but never received a response, which was disappointing. That said, I would like to recognize the sommelier from the fine dining restaurant, who was exceptionally kind, attentive, and professional. Their hospitality was a bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming dining experience. Overall, I would absolutely recommend the hotel itself for its beautiful accommodations, excellent location, and wonderful front desk staff. However, I would not recommend dining on the terrace based on our experience.

The hotel is exceptional - right on the edge of the palace with direct access to the gardens. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. the breakfast was definitely a highlight, with plenty of options.

Beware! At the time of your reservation, make sure your room will be in the Main Pavillon, NOT in "The Veranda" which does not look at all like the picture. We were told we had been upgraded but frankly, my wide and I felt like we were staying in a 3-star hotel. Yet, we still paid the same, or about $500/night. Serious renovation is overdue in this building. We had to connect and reconnect to the internet several times a day, and reception was pretty poor no matter where we were on the property. To be fair, the staff was friendly and willing to help. They were sometimes overwhelmed at breakfast time. Breakfast spread is excellent. We were surprised to see that toddlers in diapers were allowed to float with their parents in the swimming pool. Don't tell me they don't pee in it! Lines painted at the bottom of the pool would be nice for swimmers who want to do laps. The gym equipment is top notch.