This is the true residence of the kings, declared a proud Napoleon who lived here for several years. He was right. Versailles served as a royal palace for just over a century, whereas Fontainebleau already had a lifespan of almost a 1,000 years. First as a castle, then as a Renaissance palace, and finally as an imperial residence. The richly decorated halls and galleries are stunningly beautiful. But don’t forget to visit the wonderful garden.
