With thousands of visitors descending daily, it's no surprise that Versailles has nearly every kind of cuisine to choose from. Try:

- Restaurant Angelina: A traditional tearoom serving savory treats and pretty pastries on the first floor of the Palace of Versailles. Don't skip Louis XV’s favorite drink, a hot chocolate.

- Gordon Ramsay au Trianon: Overlooking the country estate of Versailles, experience Michelin-starred dining through a refined five- or seven-course menu and optional wine pairing. Highlights include wild turbot with mushrooms, clams and marinière jus along and an herb sorbet to top it all off.

- La Place: Ideal for a casual bite but still in a prime location on Rue Colbert, this trendy cafe serves up Breton-style crepes, including La Caramelle, which is drenched in homemade salted butter caramel.

Shopping fans have plenty to enjoy in this regal suburb, with souvenirs, regional food delicacies and antique treasures on offer. Browse:

- La Boutique Cour de: Accessible with a palace ticket, this is possibly the most refined souvenir shop you’ll ever enter featuring tea made with herbs from the palace gardens, fragrant candles fit for a king and other regal mementos.

- Notre-Dame: This historic marketplace is a feast for the eyes, selling everything from artisan chocolate to cured meats and fresh bread. You’ll experience Versailles like a local and it’s perfect if you’re planning a picnic on the palace grounds.

- Passage de la Geôle: This historic cobbled alleyway was once used by local prisoners going for a walk. Today, it’s made for idle wandering. Browse antique shops, galleries and artisan stores selling jewelery, art and furniture.