chantilly tour france

Chantilly travel guide

Visit Chantilly (Hauts-de-France, France)

The town of Chantilly, in the Picardy region of France, is about 40 kilometres north of Paris and 10 kilometres to the west of Senlis .

Exploring Chantilly

There are several sites and places of interest to visit in Chantilly although there are two particular features for which the town is known: the Château de Chantilly and whipped cream! Chantilly is listed as a 'town of art and history'.

The castle will be the first port of call for many visitors here, and indeed many get no further. It is useful to realise that the castle falls into two separate parts: the 16th century Petit Chateau and the 19th century Chateau Neuf, which is a substantial rebuild of an earlier chateau that stood here before the Revolution.

There is a great deal to see both outside and inside the Chateau de Chantilly, including two important museums, the stables and 115 hectares of gardens and parkland so allow plenty of time for a visit.

In the Petit Chateau you will see the living accommodation as it was furnished in the 18th century and in the Chateau Neuf you can see the art collections, library and the chapel.

Around the castle you can explore the beautiful French style formal gardens as well as the very extensive park that surrounds the property gardens and extensive parkland to explore. The most remarkable feature is the large amount of lakes and ponds, so you are often seeing the buildings reflected in water - very charming.

Within the castle you can also visit the Condé Museum . This art museum has a large collection mostly of art from the 17th-19th centuries and is best known for its collection of paintings by artists of the 18th-19th centuries including Delacroix and Corot.

See our guide to the Chateau de Chantilly .

Other places of interest in Chantilly

Horse enthusiast will certainly want to visit the Grand Stables ('Les Grandes Écuries'), a very substantial 18th century building which is still used for demonstrations of dressage and other spectacles. It is home to the 'Living Museum of the Horse' (musée vivant du cheval), a popular museum with numerous artefacts relating to horses from horse-pulled carriages to paintings and drawings.

The horse theme continues with Chantilly Hippodrome. This was built next to the Les Grandes Écuries in the 19th century and is one of the most important racecourses in France.

Crème Chantilly

Crème Chantilly is cream that is whipped (creme fraiche is used in France) and sugar added. The name Chantilly cream is also often used outside France.

The name Chantilly has taken over the 'whipped cream business' and everywhere you go in France you will find that whipped cream is referred to as 'creme chantilly' or even just 'la chantilly'. In budget restaurants and private houses it is usually supplied direct from a canister of squirting cream.

The name of the cream is thought to have its origins in a recipe once prepared in the kitchens of the Château de Chantilly.

A second garden in Chantilly, more modest in scale but also interesting to visit, is the Potager des Princes . Originally used for raising pheasants then left to abandon for a long period the garden has now been restored and developed and includes various garden areas (eg a japanese garden, a bamboo garden, a potager...) and water features as well as birds and an animal park. The Potager des Princes is very popular with visitors with children.

In the centre of Chantilly, a few minutes from the castle, one of the most imposing buildings is the moulin des princes (also called the Pavillon de Manse) on the banks of the river Nonette.

The history of the building is interesting: it was built in the 17th century to protect the machine that ensured there was always plenty of water for the fountains and lakes at the Chateau de Chantilly. In recent years the original machinery has been renovated and reconstructed and can now be visited.

One of the prettiest houses in the town, and something of a contrast to all the grand buildings you have seen so far, is the Hôtel de Beauvais . Built in the first half of the 16th century at 12, Rue du Connétable this is the oldest houses in Chantilly. There are other interesting houses to discover if you follow along Rue de Connétable such as the Hôtel Quinquempoix (no. 50) and the hôtel d'Andigné de la Chasse (no. 74).

Another notable monument here in Chantilly is the Church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, also built in the 17th century. The church is most interesting for its grand entrance and for the various artworks and decorative elements inside the church.

There are several other places of interest to see - visit the Chantilly Tourist Office (at 73 rue du Connétable) for a leaflet suggesting a route to follow as you explore the town centre.

Attractions nearby

The principal attractions close to the town are the chances to enjoy the natural environment of the Chantilly Forest and along the valley of the Nonette River. The forest is very extensive and incorporates numerous trails and chances to appreciate the flora and fauna of the region.

Among the most picturesque villages close to Chantilly we suggest you take a stroll around Coye-la-Foret (within Chantilly Forest) to see the Castle of the White Queen ('Château de la Reine-Blanche') in a lovely position on the Comelles Ponds.

You can find more travel ideas in the Oise guide and the Picardy guide .

Arrange a visit to Chantilly

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Map of chantilly and places nearby, visit near chantilly with france this way reviews.

Chateau de Chantilly

The Chateau de Chantilly is an extensive castle from the 16th-19th centuries, surrounded by extensive gardens and parkland

Royaumont Abbey

Royaumont Abbey, once one of the most important cistercian abbeys in France, is a 13th century abbey north of Paris

The ruined castle, the cathedral and the narrow cobbled streets make Senlis a very pleasant town to visit

Ermenonville

The Mer de Sable theme park is the main reason visitors come to Ermenonville, but find time to also see the Chateau d'Ermenonvile and visit the Park Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Basilica of Saint-Denis

In the Basilica of Saint-Denis, where many of the French kings are buried, you can admire one of the very first gothic style cathedrals to be built

Morienval abbey

The Abbey of Notre-Dame at Morienval is an impressive example of Romanesque architecture

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Oise

Tourist classifications for Chantilly

Chantilly is classified as a listed town of Art and History

Address: Chantilly, Senlis, Picardy, 60500, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 49.193175, longitude 2.465165

Plan your visit to Chantilly, Oise

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Jardin et parc du château de Chantilly : remarkable garden
• Potager des Princes: remarkable garden
• Forêt de Chantilly: site of natural beauty (4 km)
• Abbatiale Saint Nicolas (Saint-Leu-d'Esserent): religious monument (4 km)
• Oise-Pays de France: regional natural parc (7 km)
• Parc de l'abbaye de Royaumont: remarkable garden (8 km)
• Cathédrale Notre Dame (Senlis): religious monument (9 km)
• Senlis : secteur sauvegarde (9 km)
• Parc Asterix: theme park (10 km)
• Parc du château de Valgenceuse: remarkable garden (10 km)
• Abbaye Cistercienne de Royaumont (Asnieres-sur-Oise): religious monument (10 km)
• Foret d'Halette: site of natural beauty (11 km)

Market days in Chantilly, France

Regular market(s) are held in Chantilly each Wednesday & Saturday. (Markets are held in the morning unless stated.)

The French version of this page is at Chantilly (Francais)

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Entrance tickets

One Day Ticket

1-day ticket giving access to the Château, temporary exhibitions, the Park and the Grandes Ecuries 

(Excluding Guided Tours, Shows, Plant Days and Events)  

Two Days Ticket

2-day ticket giving access to the Château, the Park and the Grandes Ecuries - Ticket valid for 2 consecutive days

(Excluding Guided Tours, Shows and Events)

Park Ticket

Ticket giving access to the grounds of the Château de Chantilly

(excluding guided tours, plant days and events)

Audioguides

Book your audioguide to visit the Château

Equestrian shows

Show Ticket "TOTEM"

Show Ticket "TOTEM" from 10 April to 30 June then from 11 September to 30 October 2022

Give access to the great stables, the museum of the horse + equestrian show.

Equestrian Show + Visit of the castle

1 Day ticket + Show Ticket "TOTEM"

1 Day tickets + Show Ticket"TOTEM" form April, 10 to June, 30 then from September, 11 to October,30 2022 

Give access to the whole domain (château, grounds, great stables, museum of the horse) + equestrian show .

Guided tours

Guided tour of the private flats of the Duke and Duchess of Aumale

Visit intimate living spaces that are only accessible on guided tours 

In french only

Guided tours of the painting collections

Come and discover or rediscover the masterpieces of the Château de Chantilly!

Guided Tours - Discovering the masterpieces of the Musée Condé

Guided tours from 12 February to 08 March 2024

Chantilly cream workshops

Learn to ride the mythical Chantilly cream! Workshop for young and old

Course only in French language

Les Journées des Plantes from October 06 to 08, 2023

Come and discover or rediscover the Plants Days !

From 17 to 19 May 2024

Annual Pass

Adhésion fake.

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Guide to the Chateau de Chantilly

• Janine Marsh
• Museums and Châteaux , Picardy

Though France has plenty of Chateaux that impress, wow and take your breath away – some are more special than others. The Chateau de Chantilly in Picardy, a short journey from the centre of Paris, is one of them…

Potted history of the Chateau of Chantilly

Castles have stood for many centuries on the site where the current Chateau de Chantilly stands today. Surrounded by lakes and forests, it’s surprising to know that it’s just 55km from the centre of Paris. Several prominent families have been the owners including Constable Anne de Montmorency, companion to Francois I, the Renaissance King of France, creator of the Chateau de Chambord . Montmorency, like many nobles of the day, followed the King’s Renaissance style and had the medieval castle updated, constructing the Petit Chateau, today the oldest part of the castle.

Eventually it passed to Charlotte de Montmorency, wife of Henri II de Bourbon, Prince of Condé. Their son, Louis II de Bourbon, known as ‘the Grand Condé’, organised a courtly life in Chantilly that rivalled Versailles , with magnificent balls and huge fireworks displays. The dinners he held were legendary. In 1671 he organised a three-day extravaganza to honour Louis XIV managed by his steward Francois Vatel. When a delivery failed to arrive, the second disaster during the feast, the overwrought steward committed suicide thereby creating one of the best known dinners in French history.

Grand stables and updates

The Great Stables were built in 1719 for the hunt-loving Duke de Bourbon. The town of Chantilly got an upgrade by the same architect. The Grand Chateau was destroyed in 1799. The last of the Bourbon-Condé family was beheaded on the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1804 and the castle passed to Henri d’Orleans, Duke d’Aumale and son of King Louis-Philippe in 1830.

He rebuilt the Grand Chateau in 1857 to house his vast collection of art and treasures. He was known to the be greatest collector of his time. When he died he left the entire domaine to the State. The Condé museum opened to the public in 1898. And little has changed since then. And that makes this Chateau an absolute treasure.

Inside the Chateau of Chantilly

Some of the world’s great paintings can be seen at Chantilly from works by Botticelli to Raphael, Van Dyke and Watteau, Delacroix and Titian. Royal portraiture, Italian, Dutch, French and Renaissance paintings vie for attention. Wonderful stained glass, tapestries and books including a copy of the famous Tres Riches Heures of Jean, Duc de Berry are held here (though you can’t see this precious, fragile book but a digital version is available).

Visit the apartment of the Duke and his wife, filled with paintings, furnishings and artefacts. It’s incredible to think that if the Duke, who died in 1897, was to return he would recognise the rooms, the places where the paintings are hung, the furniture, his favourite reading chair. The Chateau is a snapshot of a long gone time, exquisitely and sumptuously decorated and beautifully preserved.

In Vatel’s former kitchens there is now a restaurant. Another restaurant is open in the grounds during spring to autumn months. At both you can try the famous Chantilly cream, said to have been invented in the castle kitchens. Take it from me – it tastes better there than anywhere!

The Gardens of Chantilly

The gardens cover a stonking 115 hectares. Several themes can be seen from the French-style garden created by Andre Le Notre in the 17th century to the Anglo-Chinese Garden in the 18th century and the English Garden in the 19th century. There are statues and grottoes, lakes and a hamlet reminiscent of Marie Antoinette’s hamlet at Versailles. In fact it’s claimed this is what inspired the queen. It’s a brilliant garden for strolling with shaded walkways and secret paths.

You can take a boat ride, see peacocks, take a Segway or electric cart ride and watch the horses exercising.

The Great Stables of Chantilly

The Great Stables of Chantilly are mind-bogglingly beautiful. They are a chateau in their own right with stunning architectural details. Today the building houses the Museum of the Horse – surely the horse-loving Duke de Bourbon would have approved. Paintings, artwork, books and horse paraphernalia fill the rooms.

Visit the stables and meet the horses in their seriously impressive rooms. Equestrian shows are held year round. Combining poetry, acrobatics and humour, the horse team put on an awe-inspiring dressage display beneath a 28 metre high majestic dome in the Great Stables. It is a magnificent performance of horsemanship and the bond between man and horse. I’d recommend you allow a whole day for the visit – there’s a lot to fall in love with.

How to get to the Chateau Chantilly from Paris

The Chateau de Chantilly is in the department of Picardy, region Hauts-de-France. From Gare du Nord take an overland regional train to Chantilly-Gouvieux. It takes a little over 20 minutes. From here it’s a 25-minute stroll to the château through the pretty town. Or you can take the no. 15 bus towards Senlis and get off at the “Chantilly, église Notre-Dame” stop or wait for the free, but infrequent shuttle bus DUC (Cantilian Urban Service). The bus stop is outside the station. Taxis take about 5 minutes and you can also hire bikes at the station. Check the Chateau de Chantilly website (below) for access details year round.

Top tip : pick up a round trip ticket from Gare du Nord covering travel and entry to all of Chantilly’s attractions at a special price. At Gare du Nord purchase the “Pack TER Domaine de Chantilly” ticket.

Parking is available at the castle.

More details at: www.domainechantilly.com

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Discover inspirational gourmet experiences, guided tours and more at:  valleedelagastronomie

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Exploring Chantilly, France: The Perfect Day Trip From Paris

Vaflya / Shutterstock

• Destinations

Have you seen the James Bond film A View to a Kill ? The scenes at the villain’s fabulous country estate were filmed at the Chateau de Chantilly, and the chateau’s stables and racecourse also made an appearance. In real life, the structure belonged to Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Aumale, the son of the last king of France. The duke’s castle outside of Paris wasn’t the only impressive thing he owned — he also amassed a priceless collection of art and books. The result is that the chateau, its grounds, and everything else the small town has to offer are well worth exploring on a day trip from Paris.

A mere 34 miles from Paris , this amazing place can be reached by train in less than 30 minutes. From Paris’s Gare du Nord, simply take the train to Gare Chantilly-Gouvieux. The trains run every hour, and it’s just a lovely 15-minute walk from the station to the chateau.

Once you are there, you will be able to enjoy an utterly royal day out. Here are my favorite things to see and do in Chantilly.

Explore The Market

If you arrive in town on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, make sure to check out the fresh produce at the weekly market on Place Omer Vallon. You will walk by it coming from the train station and heading toward the chateau at the other end of Chantilly.

After you’ve explored the market, you can choose from two scenic routes from the market to the chateau: along the main street, Rue du Connetable, with its small shops, or along Rue d’Aumale, where the guards used to live, right next to the racecourse. Both lead to the castle.

Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock

See The Chateau And Its Art

Henri d’Orleans was a serious collector. His chateau consists of an older part, built in 1358, and a newer part, dating to the 1800s, which has been turned into a museum. The museum holds his art collection, which is second only to the collection at the Louvre in size. Much of the artwork depicts scenes of war, since the duke was a military man, but there is much more to discover. Be sure to search out the small mosaics on two pedestals — they are true masterpieces, and my personal favorites. The rooms are magnificent and only enhanced by the art, but do peek out of the windows as well — the views haven’t changed much over hundreds of years.

FrimuFilms / Shutterstock

Marvel At The Books In The Library

My favorite part of the chateau, however, is the library; it’s simply perfect, with its floor-to-ceiling books, mezzanine level accessed by a wooden staircase, and reading nooks. Make sure to take time to examine the books in the vitrines in the center of the room; they are very old — many of them handwritten and illustrated — and just stunning. Hats off to Henri d’Orleans for gathering so many beautiful examples for this amazing collection!

Nadiia_foto / Shutterstock

Saunter Through The Le Notre Gardens

The gardens of the Chateau de Chantilly are actually three gardens stretching across more than 280 acres. The oldest is the French Garden, created by none other than master gardener Andre Le Notre of Versailles and Tuileries fame. Stylized, ornate, and organized, it is a garden where you can easily visualize royalty strolling about. In the 18th century, the Anglo-Chinese Garden was added, complete with half-timbered cottages in a village setting, and, in the 19th century, the English Garden, complete with love temples, ornate pavilions, and small canals, was constructed. Even if you are not a garden enthusiast, you could easily spend hours here, strolling and exploring.

Evgeny Shmulev / Shutterstock

Stop At The Museum Of The Horse

Located in the Great Stables, The Museum of the Horse features stalls with actual horses in them. This is very obviously not just a museum, but a working stable. You’ll learn everything you ever wanted to know about horses throughout history, see some 200 horse-related historical objects, and stand in the court and watch riders train their horses. If you are lucky, you might even be there in time for an event — the stables regularly put on shows and equestrian demonstrations .

Walencienne / Shutterstock

Learn About Engineering At The Pavillon De Manse

An engineering marvel that provided water to the chateau’s gardens and later drinking water to the chateau, the Pavillon de Manse houses a smaller-scale version of the Machine de Marly that provided Versailles’s fountains with water. Built in 1678 and named after hydraulic engineer Jacques de Manse, the site is now a museum where you can learn about this 17th-century feat of engineering.

Appreciate Chantilly’s Famous Lace

Chantilly lace is world famous, and the art itself is utterly amazing. The intricate knotting and twisting of thin silk strands with dozens of wooden bobbins by hand is, sadly, a dying art. But in the 17th century, it was popular with the rich, who were the only ones who could afford the adornments that took hours and days to complete. Chantilly’s small museum dedicated to the art has some lovely examples of Chantilly lace, from shawls to lace collars to entire dresses.

Take The Grandkids To The Potager Des Princes

Despite its name, the Potager des Princes was never a prince’s vegetable plot; it was a fancy park designed by Le Notre for the many pheasants owned by residents of the chateau. It was later sold and privately owned, and not long ago it was rescued from destruction and made into the park it is today. It’s a quirky place full of animals, from chicken to rabbits — and yes, there are still plenty of pheasants. You’ll find Japanese gardens and a bamboo maze, canals, statues, and interesting historic landscaping. It is a fun place to explore if you have time to spare, but it’s a must if you are traveling with your grandchildren.

Check Out The Racecourse

Chantilly and its forest have been associated with horses for centuries, due to the good hunting that was to be had around the chateau. But in the 1800s, horse racing became even more popular than hunting. The Chantilly racecourse is France’s oldest and has one of the country’s oldest and largest training centers, with up to 2,000 horses in training at any given time. Two of France’s most important races — the Prix du Jockey Club, also known as the French Derby, and the Prix de Diane, or the French Oaks — take place in Chantilly against the magnificent backdrop of the Great Stables and the chateau. But whether you catch a race or not, just walking alongside the track is worthwhile, since you’ll likely see horses training.

Indulge At The Auberge Du Jeu De Paume

The Auberge du Jeu de Paume , a luxury hotel and spa, is the perfect place near the chateau to spend the night. But if you are just in Chantilly for the day, make this a stop for some indulgences: There is a two-star Michelin restaurant in-house, a chic winter garden brasserie, a cozy bar, and an afternoon tea at which you can sample Chantilly’s famously sweet whipped cream. If Michelin stars are out of your reach, the set lunch menu is very affordable, and the bar offers a delicious Jockey Sandwich with salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese to accompany your glass of champagne.

Stroll Through The Forest

The 15,675-acre Chantilly Forest is the reason why the chateau was built here in the first place. In the shade of the oak trees, limes, hornbeams, and pines, you’ll find plenty of hiking and walking trails, none of them strenuous. It is a perfect green oasis — so different from the manicured gardens of the chateau, and yet just across the road.

Just be aware that hunting is still a popular sport in France, from boar hunting in early summer to deer hunting after September. But there will be plenty of signage at the entrance points to the forest warning you, and the sections open to hikers are generally not used by hunters.

What To Know Before You Go

Make sure that you wear good, comfortable shoes for walking. Chantilly might be a small place, but you will rack up the steps walking between the station and the chateau, exploring the gardens, walking up and down the racecourse, visiting the castle, and hiking through the forest. It’s nothing strenuous, since it’s all very level, but there is still a fair amount of walking involved.

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

Home > Day Trip Paris to Chantilly by Train – Things to Do

Day Trip Paris to Chantilly by Train – Things to Do

Visit chantilly, france.

Chantilly is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. Click here for the list of best day trips from Paris .

Looking for an alternative to Versailles without the crowds? Then, visit Chantilly, a picturesque town in Northern France, far from the French capital’s hustle and bustle.

Lesser-known than the Palace of Versailles , Château de Fontainebleau , or the Loire Valley Castles , Château de Chantilly is one of the most beautiful castles near Paris , well worth the visit.

Chantilly, however, is much more than its château; the town has other attractive sights like the Great Stables or the Horse Museum .

Overall, Paris – Chantilly is one the best day trips from Paris by train, and also one of the easiest. Here’s the list of top things to do in Chantilly for a fun day out of Paris.

How to Get to Chantilly from Paris

Paris to Chantilly by train is straightforward. The train Paris – Chantilly leaves from Gare du Nord train station hourly, from the Grandes Lignes area (platforms, 9 to 18). The distance Paris Chantilly is only 40 km, and count it for taking 20 minutes.

Be aware that Gare du Nord is the biggest train station in France, so it is better to arrive well before the train departure to find your bearings. If you reach Gare du Nord with the Parisian metro (lines 4 and 5), you will need to go upstairs from level -2 to level 0.

You can purchase the Paris – Chantilly train tickets at the automatic distributors ‘Grandes Lignes.’ During the summer, there is an interesting combined ticket [train + Domaine de Chantilly] for only 25€ which can be bought at the Grandes Lignes Ticket Office.

Best Things to Do in Chantilly

1.château de chantilly.

You may want to start your day trip Paris – Chantilly by the beautiful Château de Chantilly , one of the top castles in France . Château de Chantilly may not be a royal residence but this fairytale castle hosted Kings and Queens.

The town of Chantilly is dominated by a château since medieval times. The castle was destroyed many times and rebuilt again and again.

The château that you can see today is from the 19th century, and it was the home to Henri d’Orléans, son of the last King of France. Château of Chantilly has a spectacular setting, located at the center of a small pond and surrounded by beautiful gardens and pools.

Like many other European castles, Château of Chantilly is a succession of beautiful rooms and halls, all very impressive. The most interesting rooms in this castle are the rooms related to Henri’s main passions: arts and literature.

Henri d’Orléans was a very cultivated man and a compulsive collector. Thanks to Henri, Château de Chantilly hosts today the second largest collection of artwork in France, only beaten by the Louvre’s artwork .

Henri loved to host lavish dinners with many guests. After the dinner, he enjoyed taking them to the Grande Galerie in the château where the biggest part of his collection was exhibited.

Today, the paintings in this gallery are still displayed exactly in the same position that Henri chose for them.

However, our favorite part of Château de Chantilly is the library. The Chantilly library hosts a collection of 60,000 rare books, including some major works of medieval art. The library and reading room design – with two levels and a gallery – is typical of library architecture in the second half of the 19th century.

Click here to buy the Château de Chantilly tickets

DID YOU KNOW? The entrance to Château de Chantilly is included in the Paris Museum Pass , so here’s an extra reason to buy it! You can read our Paris Museum Pass review here .

2.Chantilly Gardens

André Le Nôtre is world-known as the landscape designer of the Versailles Gardens . Still, his favorite (and dearest) creation was the magnificent French-style garden surrounding the Château de Chantilly.

The French Garden of Chantilly is previous to the Château de Chantilly that we can see today. It was designed at the end of the 17th century by André Le Nôtre for Louis II de Bourbon.

As usual, Le Nôtre structured the garden around two perpendicular axes: the first, north-south through the majestic terrace, highlights the site’s undulation; the second, east-west, is occupied by the Grand Canal through the valley.

The particularity of this French-style garden is that the east-west axis is off-center to the château.

Go to the terrace for a terrific overview of the French Garden and Grand Canal. Between the terrace and the Grand Canal, north of the castle, Le Nôtre created different parterres. These parterres were decorated with flowerbeds, ponds, and other water features.

The Grand Canal was the part of the garden Le Nôtre was most proud of. This Grand Canal is 600 meters longer than the one in Versailles.

If you read our article about the Machine de Marly , you must know by now how difficult it was to bring the water from the Seine River to Versailles (the river was 10 km far from Versailles and 100 m lower). Chantilly’s Grand Canal was created via a diversion of the Nonette, a tributary of the river Oise, so it was much easier.

In Château de Chantilly, there is also an English-style garden and an Anglo-Chinese-style garden. The Anglo-Chinese garden was designed during the 18th century, and it has a cute hamlet with 5 country houses surrounded by small vegetable gardens, fruit bushes, and flower gardens. This enchanting place inspired Marie-Antoinette’s Petit Trianon in Versailles .

The English-style garden was the latest garden built in Chantilly, and it covers a plot belonging to Le Notre’s French Garden, which was destroyed during the French Revolution.

As usual, the English-style garden was designed with winding paths and untamed wilderness and it was enhanced by small romantic structures like a waterfall or a temple of Venus.

3.Chantilly Stables and the Horse Museum

Sure, Château de Chantilly attracts many visitors but the main attraction in Chantilly is the Grandes Écuries . The Grandes Écuries are the largest stables in Europe, and they are devoted to the art of Haute-école horse training and dressage.

The Chantilly Stables were built in the 18th century for the 7th Prince de Condé, Louis-Henri de Bourbon. The Prince de Condé was a horse passionate, and he was convinced that he would become a horse in his second life; that’s why he needed to have the most magnificent stables.

During Louis-Henri’s life, the Chantilly Stables hosted more than 200 horses and 500 hounds and he liked to organize lavish dinners in the Dome.

Today, Les Grandes Écuries hosts 30-40 horses (mostly Iberian horses) who receive daily care and education by a team of highly qualified grooms and riders. The horses are also trained for equestrian shows and daily performances in the Dome.

Apart from the everyday training, Les Grandes Écuries houses also the Chantilly Horse Museum , which is focused on the relationship between horses and men since the beginning of civilization. The museum ticket includes the Chantilly Horse Show , a 30-minute dressage show in the Dome.

4. Chantilly Racecourse

The Chantilly Racecourse was built in 1834 but it was renovated from top to bottom in the 2000s. Located just in front of the Great Stables and surrounded by the Chantilly forest, it is worth having a look at this racecourse even if there is no race when you visit Chantilly.

The Chantilly Racecourse hosts two of the most prestigious France galop races: the Prix du Jockey-Club and the Prix de Diane Longines . The Prix de Diane Longines is a symbol of wealth and elegance, with spectators wearing stylish hats and wonderful outfits.

Chantilly’s training center for this kind of race has more than 2,000 horses, spread across the neighboring municipalities of Chantilly, Gouvieux, Lamorlaye, Coye-la-Forêt, and Avilly-Saint-Léonard.

5.Last but not Least: Chantilly Cream!

It would be a pity to leave Chantilly without tasting the crème chantilly (whipped cream with sugar), usually with a coffee or an ice cream.

It is believed the chantilly cream was invented by a man who was from Chantilly, hence the name. Another theory claims the cream’s origins in a recipe once prepared in the Château de Chantilly’s kitchens.

Visitors can have a taste of homemade chantilly cream everywhere in the town and also at La Capitainerie , the restaurant inside the Château.

Train Chantilly – Paris

To go back to Paris, take the train Chantilly – Paris at the same train station where you arrived.

Be aware that the trains traveling from Chantilly to Paris are less frequent in the afternoon than in the morning, so we recommend taking a picture of the train schedule when you arrive at Chantilly train station or checking it online to be sure you don’t have to wait a long time.

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The 10 Best Things to Do in Chantilly, France

When a town’s claims to fame include an impressive Renaissance castle, one of the world’s most delicate and luxurious fabrics and the best accompaniment for a hot chocolate, you know you’re in for a divine stay. Get the most of a visit to Chantilly with our list of the 10 best things to see and do in this elegant town.

Feel like a royal by visiting the domaine de chantilly.

Undoubtedly Chantilly’s best-known feature is the opulent castle that bears the town’s name. The domain is made up of two attached buildings. The first, known as the Petit Château (small castle), was built in around 1560 for the French noble, Anne, the Duke of Montmorency. The second, the Grand Château (large or grand castle), was largely destroyed during the French Revolution and reconstructed by architect Honoré Daumet for Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale in the 19th century. Nowadays, this opulent estate is home to several museums, a spectacular garden (said to be famous French gardener Le Nôtre’s best work) and the largest horse stables in Europe.

See one of the largest art collections in France at the Musée Condé

Join in on Chantilly’s equestrian frenzy

Upon a visit to Chantilly, you’ll quickly notice its love of horses. Horseracing has been famous here since 1834 and the town is one of the principal training centres in France. Discover the history and role of this beloved animal at the Musée du Cheval (Museum of the Horse), found in Les Grandes Écuries (The Great Stables) at the Chantilly Castle. Here, visitors will learn about this symbol of prestige and power through a collection of paintings, sculpture and ethnographic objects.

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Learn about ancient hydraulic techniques at the Pavillon de Manse

The Pavillion de Manse, also known as the Moulin des Princes (Prince’s Mill), has been using water from a canal off the Nonette river to produce energy since 1678. Another invention of the Duke of Aumale, its inception was initially to provide vast amounts of water to Domaine de Chantilly to use in the fountains and jets in its gardens, as imagined by Le Nôtre. Visitors will get an in-depth look at the evolution of the generator inside this Pavillon, located in a classical French building designed by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the same man behind the Grand Trianon and the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles .

Marvel at the Church of Notre-Dame of Chantilly

Situated beside the stables at the Domaine de Chantilly, the Church of Notre-Dame of Chantilly is another work by the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart. Construction of this French classical structure began in 1687 and finished in 1691, making it the first church in Chantilly. The original building was too small and didn’t match the town’s increasing population, so it was enlarged between 1724 and 1734. The unique quality of its architecture, not seen elsewhere in the region, earned it the title of Historical Monument of France in 1965.

Revisit the history of lacemaking at the Musée de la Dentelle

Thanks to a song made famous by The Big Bopper in the 1950s, lace may well be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word Chantilly. At the Musée de la Dentelle (Museum of Lace), begin the tour with an introduction to the history of lace in Chantilly and learn about its difference from other famous lacemaking towns like Puy and Alençon. The museum then goes on to demonstrate bobbin lace, the style of lacemaking used in Chantilly, with a presentation on its tools and process. Lastly, the focus shifts to what makes lace from here so unique, including its signature black colour and pattern.

Hang out with animals at Le Potager des Princes

The Potager des Princes (the Prince’s Vegetable Garden) is a garden and animal park found in the heart of the city, on the banks of the Canal Saint-Jean. The grounds comprise a Japanese garden, a bamboo maze and a wide array of exotic plants alongside friends from the animal kingdom, which include peacocks, hens and parakeets. It also contains a small theatre, Théâtre de la Faisanderie, which holds plays and concerts throughout the summer.

Saunter through the Chantilly Forest

Chantilly is surrounded by 6,344 hectares of woods, doubling the historic town as a nature lover’s dream. The forest has many paths perfect for meandering and is used as grounds for horse training and hunting as well. Part of the area belongs to the Domaine de Chantilly, with parts beautifully designed per the plans of Le Nôtre.

Dine on delicious desserts with Chantilly cream

While in the English-speaking world it’s known as simply ‘whipped cream’, in France, it’s the word Chantilly you’ll see on dessert menus at creperies and cafes. While whipped cream dates back to the time of Catherine de Medici , it was the recipe born in Chantilly that added sugar to the mix, making the delicacy that much better. For a list of the best spots to taste Chantilly cream in its hometown, visit the tourism website’s top picks here .

Step back in time with a visit to the troglodyte houses in Gouvieux

Just six kilometres outside of Chantilly lies a neighbourhood with a unique heritage and charming homesteads. In the town of Gouvieux, a row of cave-like houses on the Impasse des Carrières feels like a time warp to an ancient era. Dug into the limestone cliff, these homes served as housing for low-income families up until the 19th century. Many of them are still inhabited today and are quite practical works of architecture, with naturally cooler temperatures in the summer and warmer ones in the winter.

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Château de Chantilly, an easy day trip from Paris

You could spend a lifetime in Paris and never see everything the City of Light has to offer! But getting outside of the city will open your eyes to some of France’s most beautiful cultural and historical heritage. If you’re visiting Paris and need a break from the fast and hectic pace of the city, take a trip out to Château de Chantilly for some fresh air, breathtaking gardens, and of course, a castle!

About Château de Chantilly

Château de Chantilly is an important monument of French history. The château has been around since the middle ages, although it’s been destroyed and rebuilt a number of times. The current version is from the 1800s and has survived both world wars.

While never lived in by kings or queens, this stately château last belonged to Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, and the son of the last King of France, Louis-Phillipe. The prince was a compulsive collector of art and books.

The Art Galleries of the Musée de Condé at Château de Chantilly are the second largest collection of antique paintings in France after the Louvre. Art in the Musée de Condé even includes masterpieces from great artists such as Raphael and Ingres.

Interestingly, the works of art are still displayed in the exact layout that Henri chose for them. The library is massive and hosts an impressive 60,000 books. The Duke of Aumale donated the château and his extensive collections to the Institut de France in 1886.

The French Gardens surrounding Château de Chantilly were designed by famed landscape designer, André Le Nôtre. Nôtre also designed the Versailles Gardens, but it’s said that the French Garden at Château de Chantilly was his favorite creation. The Grand Canal at Château de Chantilly is 600 meters longer than the one he incorporated into his design at Versailles.

While the Château and gardens are magnificent, the Great Stables are really the pièce de résistance of the Chantilly complex. The Great Stables of the Princes de Condé were built for the 7 th  prince of Condé, Louis-Henri de Bourbon in the 18 th  century.

The prince loved horses and was convinced he would become a horse in second life. In Louis-Henri’s time, the stable housed more than 200 horses. The stables are still the largest in Europe but only house between 30-40 horses today. You can see them in action during the daily shows in the Dome.

You might also like:  The best French Castles.

Things to know before you go to the Chantilly Castle

Most visitors to Paris take day trip to the more famous Château de Versailles. Glittering in gold, Versailles is sure to impress. Meanwhile, Château de Chantilly is less opulent, but no less impressive.

It’s is one of the best day trips from Paris and although it’s the lesser château destination, it’s easy to get to, has far less crowds, and is packed with beautiful and interesting architecture, gardens, food, history, and art.

You might also like:  The best Castles in the Loire Valley.

How to  Get to Château de Chantilly from Paris

Getting to Château de Chantilly from Paris is straightforward and pretty easy. Start your journey at Paris’ largest train station, Gare du Nord. Trains leave from Paris to Chantilly hourly and depart from the Grandes Lignes zone- platforms 9-18. Tickets can be purchased from the Regional Ticket distribution machines at Gare du Nord. The journey to Chantilly takes about 24 minutes.

If traveling by train, you can take advantage of a unique package deal. At the automated machines, you can buy a TER Chantilly ticket which includes your roundtrip train fare as well as a Domain ticket for 25 euro. This option can save you time when you arrive at the Château ticket office and there is a long line.

You can get from the Chantilly train station to the Château one of three ways:

By bus- a free bus provided by the municipality of Chantilly can take you to the Château in just a few minutes. Take DUC bus number 15 in the “Senlis” direction and get off at “Chantilly, église Notre-Dame”

On foot- it takes about 20 minutes to walk from the train station to the Château

Return trains to Paris run less frequently, so be sure to check the train schedule unless you plan on spending a night in Chantilly.

Click here to buy your skip the line tickets to the Chateau de Chantilly

You can reach the Château de Chantilly by car from Charles de Gaulle in about 20 minutes. It’s 40km from the city center and travel time is heavily dependent on traffic.

Take the A3 or A1 motorway and take the “Chantilly” exit towards D316 and D317

Once you arrive, follow the signs to the P2 car park.

Parking is 5 euro for cars.

By a guided tour

Another option for seeing the  Château de Chantilly from Paris is to join a tour like this one to see the still-standing glory of the Princes de Condé.

Opening Hours

From 30 March to 27 October 2019

7 days a week, including Sundays and holidays, from 10:00 to 18:00 (gardens close at 20:00)

From 30 October 2018 to 29 March 2019

Every day except Tuesday from 10:30 to 17:00 (gardens close at 18:00)

Gardens Only- 8 euro

Domain (Gardens, Château, and the Great Stables) 17 euro

Equestrian Show (includes access to the Great Stables) 21 euro

Domain + Equestrian Show (Gardens, Château, the Great Stables, and the show) 30 euro

It is possible to enter the Domaine de Chantilly with a Paris Museum Pass (access to the park, the chateau, and the Great Stables).

While tickets can be purchased on-site, it’s recommended to book tickets online in advance. You won’t have to wait in long ticket lines and you also get a 10% discount for booking online.

Guided tours of the Château’s Private Suites are available for an additional 5 euro. Tours are only available in French.

Audio guides are free of charge and are available in French, English, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese.

There are 3 restaurants on the grounds of Château de Chantilly:

La Capitainerie, located in the château

le Café des Ecuries and the Hameau in the Anglo-Chinese garden.

Picnic tables are also available in the English garden if you choose to bring a packed lunch.

Make sure to try a Crème Chantilly while you’re there!

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Private Chantilly Château & Park Tour

A private tour of the château in Chantilly is a short-cut to understanding the power and magnificence of the nobility in France. This tour brings you to the domain of France’s illustrious Montmorency and Condé families, and to a museum of world class stature. It can be argued with some success that the power of its creator, the Constable Anne in the 16th century, was equal to that of the crown. His descendant, Louis Bourbon, the Prince of Condé, renowned as the Grand Condé, actually threatened to supplant the king, Louis XIV, but failed, leading to his banishment from the court in 1650. Even his act of atonement, a gift to the king of Michelangelo’s twin sculptures, The Slaves, was not enough to redeem him. Until the creation of Versailles, none of the previous royal palaces held a candle to the elegance of Chantilly.

We start the tour of the château in the ‘Petit Chateau’ to see the impressive library and reading room which houses about 20,000 volumes, including medieval manuscripts, surrounded by banners of all of the comrades-in-arms of the monarchs of France. We then visit the  Apartment of the Princes, which holds its own when compared to the State Apartments of Versailles. The chinoiserie in the Monkey Salon is especially worth mentioning, as is the Great Condé’s own battle gallery. You will also visit the chapel before we enter the ‘Grand Chateau’ where we will visit the banquet hall, followed by entering the art collection, one of the largest in France. It is the personal collection of the last owner of Chantilly, the Duke of Aumale, before he bequested, in 1886, the château and its contents to the French Academy of the Arts and Sciences, aka the Institut de France. It includes master-pieces of Raphael and Piero di Cosimo, as well as drawings of Giotto, Fillippino Lippi, and works of Watteau, Ingres, and Delacroix, among others.

The park of Chantilly was designed by André Le Nôtre and includes a Grand Canal that rivals the one in Versailles. You can easily spend an hour exploring the park, and you have an option to do so riding in a small (bumpy!) train ride that lasts a bit over half an hour. We prefer a tranquil walk through the English Garden, where you will see a small rustic village and some of the ‘follies’ that inspired Marie Antoinette for her own domain in Versailles. It also set off a fashion wherein any French lord worth their title had to have their own follies. 

The great-grandson of the Great Condé, Louis-Henri de Bourbon, was a firm believer in reincarnation, convinced that he would return as a horse. To assure an abode be-fitting a Condé, he commissioned a talented architect, Jean Aubert, to build the magnificent stables of Chantilly, duly accomplished from 1719 to 1735. It housed 240 horses, 500 hounds and 100 employees. Today it is the home of the Living Horse Museum, which you can visit. In mid-afternoon, on certain days of the week, which change with the seasons, the museum offers a dressage show, a sort of equine ballet. If interested, we can suggest to you which date to choose for your tour, so that you can see the show, which usually lasts about 45 minutes.

Chantilly is also where 3000 thoroughbred horses routinely train for racing, including the race called the Prix de Diane, a very prestigious world class equine event.

Interested In Our Private Château de Chantilly Tour?

Depending on what you choose to include in your tour of Chantilly, there may or may not be enough time left to visit other near-by sites, such as the abbey in Royaumont, the ancient royal town of Senlis, the Château in Pierrefonds, or (needing more time) the charming village of Gerberoy. Further details will be provided upon request.

“Shahin, Just a quick note to let you know how much we enjoyed the tour of the Loire Valley [Custom Loire Valley Day Tour from Paris of 2 chateaux and 1 wine estate]. Let me start by saying the best part of the trip was meeting you and listening and learning about the history of France and specifically Chenonceaux. Your comments and guidance throughout the day made the experience far more than just a sight-seeing trip. Lunch was great and so were Amboise and the wine tasting. I can’t thank you enough for putting this tour together for us, we will enjoy the memories for years to come. Merci beaucoup,”

Stephen Kelly – San Francisco, CA

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Tour prices.

Your price is determined by the number of persons in your party, as follows:

• 1 - 3 Persons: $1475 US
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Our price includes our provision of our guide and an upscale vehicle for the number of hours required, plus fuel, tolls and parking fees. Snacks, drinks, meals, gratuities, and entry/tasting fees at places that charge them are not included in our tour fee.

A trip to Chantilly for Equestrian lovers

Chantilly is undoubtedly famous for its opulent castle - the Château de Chantilly, its museum Musée Condé which is believed to have the 2nd largest collection of antique paintings in France after the Musée Louvre and is the birthplace of the lightest and fluffiest Crème Chantilly. But did you know that the town is also considered as the “Equestrian Capital” or the “Capital City of the Horse” in France?

France’s love for horses knows no bounds – and if you are passionate about horse riding, nature and history then what better way to explore the town and learn about its history than taking a trip to the Horse Kingdom!

Chantilly is a paradise for horse-lovers and dedicates its energies to polo, horse-riding competitions and hunting. You will discover the wonders of this town with its Grandes Écuries (Grand Stables), considered as the most magnificent stables in the world, as well as its racecourse and France’s principal horse-training centres.

Learn about this symbol of prestige and power and the role of the regal animal at the Musée du Cheval (Museum of the Horse) through a collection of paintings, sculptures and ethnographic objects.

You can choose from various private / guided tours to discover the stables, the training centre and the racecourse.

GRANDES ÉCURIES / THE GRAND STABLES

Built in the 18th century, the Grand Stables is home to 240 horses and 400+ hounds and is open to the public throughout the year. The stable also contains the Musée Vivant du Cheval, which displays riding equipment, rocking horses and objets d'art. The extraordinary grandeur of the stables will surely have a hypnotic effect on you!

Be mesmerised by a 30-minute equestrian show. They also host 1-hour shows that take place from late March to October.

HIPPODROME DE CHANTILLY / CHANTILLY RACECOURSE

Close to the castle, surrounding the forest, the Chantilly Racecourse is home to two of the four France’s most important and classic races: the Prix du Jockey Club , also known as the French Derby, and the Prix de Diane , or French Oaks. The first race meeting at the course was held in 1834. In keeping with the tradition of horse racing, this oldest racecourse in continental Europe, has a double grass track.

Admire the performance of the best horses through a race which is developed in 45 min and if you want to bet during races, there is a special counter available for this!

TRAINING CENTRE

The training centre, built in 1898, is one of the oldest and biggest training centres in the country. The horse capital trains daily more than 3,000 thoroughbred horses on the sand tracks.

Chantilly Training Centre is divided into :

• The Forest, which, holds the Piste des Lions (lion track) where galloping is a unique experience • Les Aigles , an expansive grass field with turf, sand, and synthetic gallops interspersed, where several hundred horses gallop every morning between 6 am and 1 pm. • Lamorlaye and Coye-La-Foret , an area specifically for horses that race over jumps • Avilly Saint Leonard , a track where horses can train year-round.

Spend a warm, sunny morning at the Chantilly Training Centre exploring the magical world of horse racing with a professional guide.

You can also discover Chantilly on a horseback by simulating a riding practice or by introducing yourself to free-joring, an activity where you will be towed by a horse in a buggy or on a mountain board!

The Domaine de Chantilly remains a treasure trove and will make any horse lover’s heart skip a beat, with its lush forest, magnificent castle and stables!

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A grand performance

8 Beautiful, Must-Visit Châteaux in France

Posted: February 13, 2024 | Last updated: April 15, 2024

Versailles is just as worthy of a visit for the gardens as it is for the château.

Andy Sutherland/Shutterstock

Thousands of châteaux across France have set a certain storybook aesthetic for centuries. Many of these sprawling estates were once reserved for nobility, with gilded interiors (Hall of Mirrors, anyone?) and turreted roofs, but today you don’t need royal lineage to experience a beautiful château. Simply clear your schedule, fork over 20 euros, and indulge in the regal luxury and history. Here are eight beautiful French châteaux to visit on your next trip.

1. Château de Versailles

• Where: Versailles, France
• When to visit: Open from 9 a.m.–6:30 p.m; palace is open year-round except Mondays and May 1
• Visit: Palace tickets start at €21, chateauversailles.fr

What King Louis XIII built as a hunting lodge 10 miles southwest of Paris , his successor, Louis XIV, and Queen Marie Antoinette transformed into a glittering, 721,182-square-foot palace—and symbol of French power: Château de Versailles . Today, visitors can tour magnificent rooms like the Hall of Mirrors, admire thousands of paintings and pieces of furniture, and wander the vast manicured gardens for a look at royal indulgence. As of 2021, guests can even stay the night, thanks to the opening of Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle , a luxury hotel located within the Château de Versailles .

Versailles is open all year (except on Mondays and May 1), but the gardens are especially attractive on summer evenings when the fountains are illuminated. Tip: To beat the crowds, book a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

2. Château du Clos Lucé

• Where: Amboise, France
• When: Operating hours vary depending on the month; open year-round except December 25 and January 1
• Visit: Tickets start at €18, vinci-closluce.com

This stately brick manor house is famous for being the official and final residence of Leonardo da Vinci; it is located a quarter mile from the beautiful Château Royal d’Amboise , where the artist’s tomb lies. Besides an ornate interior with more than 800 years behind it, the château also has a 15-acre park that showcases 20 models of da Vinci’s inventions.

3. Château d’Azay-le-Rideau

• Where: Azay-le-Rideau, France
• When to visit: Operating hours vary depending on the month; open year-round except January 1, May 1, and December 25
• Visit: Full-price tickets are €11.50; tickets.monuments-nationaux.fr

The UNESCO-recognized Loire Valley is home to striking buildings and castles, including the two-story Château d’Azay-le-Rideau. Constructed in the 1500s, this château’s sharp roofs, turrets, and other features showcase early French Renaissance design and architecture. The château was originally built on an island in the Indre River by Gilles Berthelot, treasurer of France and adviser to King Louis XII.

While the stone-carved details (look for the salamander and ermine motifs, which symbolize King Francois I and Queen Claude, respectively) and open loggia staircase are captivating enough, take a step back to appreciate the building as a whole. A moat surrounds it, offering a reflection of the château.

4. Château de Chantilly

• Where: Chantilly, France
• When to visit: Open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s best to visit on a nice day, when you can take advantage of the large park and gardens.
• Visit : Tickets start at €18 chateaudechantilly.fr

The town of Chantilly, which is located about an hour north of Paris by train or car, is known for its strong equestrian heritage, the invention of Chantilly cream, and a beautiful, historic mansion called Château de Chantilly. Originally built for the Montmorency family in the 16th century and later enhanced by the Duke of Aumale, the château today is a public museum and garden. It’s easy to spend a full afternoon here, thanks to the exquisite art collections within the Musée Condé, and the beautiful gardens and park (both included with entry) adjacent to the main house. Come hungry: there’s also a small cafe and restaurant tucked away in one corner where you can try the region’s most famous dessert, Chantilly.

5. Château de Maffliers

• Where: Maffliers, France
• When to visit : Year-round, though it’s best to visit in spring, summer, or fall to take advantage of the outdoor activities.
• Book now : demeures-de-campagne.com

If you want to turn your day trip into an overnight, pair your visit to Chantilly with a stay at another, smaller château nearby called Château de Maffliers, Demeures de Campagne . Renovated in 2020, this 19th-century home turned hotel gives travelers the chance to spend the night in a historic French mansion, complete with ornate, over-the-top decor like velvet sofas, chandeliers, and marble bathrooms. The decadence extends to the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Augustine, where diners can indulge in regional classics like roast duck, pâté, and fresh strawberries with Chantilly cream. Guests also won’t want to miss the chance to experience the region’s renowned equestrian heritage by going on a morning horseback ride with the property’s on-site horseback riding school.

Note: Be sure to book a suite to snag a room in the château. There is also a more basic hotel called Novotel on the property in a separate building.

6. Château de Valençay

• Where: Valençay, France
• When to visit: Opening times vary depending on month; open year-round except December 25 and January 1
• Visit: Tickets are €14.50; chateau-valencay.fr

With its L-shaped layout, the Château de Valençay’s two wings demonstrate the main architectural influences—Renaissance and classical—on its design. The d’Estampes family created the foundation for the Château de Valençay in the 1500s with a very Renaissance flavor (thanks in part to the influence of the Great Italian Wars ). In the 1700s, the west wing was modified in the classical style, as seen by details like its Ionic capitals.

Since the château’s creation, it’s changed hands with many different owners from the upper echelon—most famously Charles Maurice de Talleyrand, who was the foreign minister to Napoleon. Many of the interior relics you can see come from Talleyrand’s collection of swords, medals, and other treasures.

7. Château d’Ussé

• Where: Rigny-Ussé, France
• When to visit: Opening hours depend on the month; open from February 13 to November 13
• Visit: Adult tickets are €14,50; chateaudusse.fr

While many châteaux have a storybook appeal, the Château d’Ussé has a special claim to fame as the inspiration for the original Sleeping Beauty . The fun is in the very ornate details, from the intricately designed ceiling of the guard room to the 16th-century tapestries decorating the walls. Visitors (particularly children) will delight in the mannequins displayed in its various rooms that re-enact scenes from the classic story.

Even if you’re not a fan of the fairy tale, there’s plenty to enjoy here. Walk through the ramparts of the château’s towers, and you can reimagine a time when the building was used as a strategic fortress circa 1000 C.E.

8. Château de Blois

• Where: Blois, France
• When to visit: Opening hours vary depending on the month; open year-round, except December 25 and January 1
• Visit: Chateau + Sound and Light Show tickets are €21; chateaudeblois.fr

Unlike many châteaux, the Château de Blois isn’t a shining example of a particular architectural era or influence. Instead, this Loire Valley palace is recognized for being a hodgepodge of medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and classical architecture, due to it frequently being torn down and renovated. As a result, each part of the exterior serves as a marker for the popular architectural style during a renovation, including the château’s iteration as a 13th-century fortress and the Renaissance-style home of King Louis XII.

From April through September, the château’s exterior becomes the backdrop of a sound and light show portraying its complex history, offering a modern way to experience the chateau’s past.

This article was originally published in 2019 and was most recently updated on February 12, 2024. Kimberley Lovato and Jessie Beck contributed reporting.

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