day 7

The morning began with a peaceful one-hour bus ride to Versailles, offering a calm break from the energy of Paris. As we pulled into the town, the grandeur of the palace came into view—its golden gates and vast courtyard already buzzing with visitors. We joined a guided tour that took us through the ornate halls and royal chambers, each room more elaborate than the last. The Hall of Mirrors was especially breathtaking, with its glittering chandeliers and endless reflections capturing the full weight of the palace’s history.After the tour, we made our way out into the gardens, which were just as impressive as the palace itself. Perfectly manicured hedges, grand fountains, and long, tree-lined paths stretched out in every direction. We wandered slowly, taking in the fresh air and the beauty of the layout. As we reached one of the outer paths, we caught an unexpected bonus: a section of the Tour de France passing nearby. Crowds gathered along the barriers, cheering as the cyclists raced past—it was a surreal and exciting contrast to the stillness of the gardens.

We spent a bit more time exploring the palace on our own, stepping into rooms we’d missed earlier in the tour. There was something fascinating in every corner—painted ceilings, antique furniture, delicate fabrics preserved through centuries. It was easy to imagine what life might have looked like during the height of the French monarchy, though impossible to grasp the scale of it all. As evening set in, we returned to the city and found dinner at Café Pinocchio, a cozy spot with comforting food and a laid-back feel. 

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