We went to Versailles this past July on a Sunday when the water fountains were running and it was unorganized. My cousin speaks French fluently and talked with some of the workers. They said that they were frustrated too b/c their managers kept changing things on them like the entrances and exits. They didn't know what was going on either. A lot had to do with the restoration going on in the Opera room. As for the numbers, it did take a bit of effort to find them. However, the lady at the desk told us which room to start in and we then followed the crowd and the map given to us with the audio tour. My cousin also asked when was the best time to come to Versailles and they all replied in winter. Versailles is wonderful but go knowing it is not an in and out experience. I'd rather wait hours in line to see Versailles than say a ride at Disney World.

balletgirl -

All I can say is - I went in Winter and obviously from my described experience, it didn't seem to be the best time to go! (Unless summer/spring/autumn are worse. A terrible thought.)

Dukey - You're right - I shouldn't have said "Don't go". Just should've given my experience.

Funny, one of my friend's whom I traveled with, said his mother told him not to visit Versailles (she's been to Paris a number of times.) Don't know why - but maybe she had a less than stellar experience as well.

Sounds like your winter experience was about the same as my summer experience - so much for that advice. It is too bad your experience tainted your memories of such a lovely place.