Chateau de Chantilly is a magnificent historic castle located in the picturesque town of Chantilly, just 30 miles north of Paris. Steeped in rich history and architectural splendour, it is home to the Musée Condé, boasting an impressive art collection featuring Raphael, Watteau, and Delacroix masterpieces. The estate also includes enchanting gardens designed by famed landscape architect André Le Nôtre and a world-renowned equestrian centre. A visit to Chateau de Chantilly is a must for any art aficionado or history buff seeking a charming and unforgettable experience in Paris.

Plan Your Visit to Chateau de Chantilly

Quick Facts About Chateau de Chantilly

Official name: Château de Chantilly
Address: 7 Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly, France
Date of opening: First Chateau (1528-1531), Current Chateau (1875-1882)
Timings: April-October (10 am-6 pm), November-March (10:30 am-5 pm)
Architect: Jean Bullant (1st Chateau), Honoré Daumet (2nd Chateau)
Architectural style: French Renaissance
UNESCO World Heritage Site: No
Number of visitors per year: over 400,000
Collection size: Over 700 paintings, 2,500 drawings/prints, & 1,500 manuscripts
Function: Museum, Garden, Horse Stables, and a venue for events

Why Visit Chateau de Chantilly?

Timeless Architecture: Witness the influence of Renaissance architecture in both the original and current chateaus, showcasing the evolution of French castle design.
Art Lovers' Paradise: Explore the Musée Condé, home to over 700 paintings, including works by Raphael and Delacroix, offering a visual feast for any art admirer.
Enchanting Gardens: Stroll through André Le Nôtre's magnificent gardens, featuring intricate patterns, fountains, and sculptures that exude peaceful serenity.
World-Class Equestrian Center: Discover the prestigious Chantilly equestrian centre, famous for its horse shows, races, and training facilities, perfect for equine enthusiasts.
A Literary Treasure Trove: Marvel at the staggering collection of 1,500 manuscripts, some dating back to the Middle Ages, providing a journey into France's rich literary history.

Chateau de Chantilly Gardens

Plan Your Visit To Chateau de Chantilly

Timings

Getting There

Facilities At Chateau de Chantilly

Accessibility

Nearby

Visitor Tips

Opening Hours: 10 am and 6 pm (April to October) and 10:30 am and 5 pm (November to March)
Closed on: Tuesdays
Best time to visit: It is best to visit during the early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a leisurely exploration.

Chateau de Chantilly Timings

Address: 7 Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly, France

Find on Maps

By Bus: Line 645 from Senlis
Nearest bus stop: Chantilly,-Gouvieux station, 10-15 minutes walk from the Chateau.
By Train: RER-D line from Gare du Nord
Nearest train station: Chantilly-Gouvieux station, 10-15 minutes from the Chateau.
By Car: Garde du Nord is about 45 kilometres from Chateau de Chantilly and takes 45-50 minutes to reach, depending on traffic conditions.
Nearest car parking: Parking du Reservoir is 3-5 minutes from the Chateau.

Getting to Chateau de Chantilly

Changing tables for babies are available in ladies' washrooms.
Restaurants are present on the Chateau, grounds and great stables.
Golf carts and small trains are available for transportation within the grounds of the Chateau.
Restrooms and washroom facilities for convenience.
Ample nearby parking areas for visitors arriving by car.
Gift shop offering a range of souvenirs, books, and merchandise.

Wheelchair accessibility in certain parts of the Chateau.
Adjusted golf carts are available for people with limited mobility.
Free parking for people with disabilities.

Chantilly Racecourse: Known for its prestigious horse racing events, Chantilly Racecourse combines the thrill of the sport with a picturesque setting, attracting enthusiasts and spectators alike.
Saint Peter's Church: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Saint Peter's Church in Chantilly captivates visitors with its intricate design, beautiful stained-glass windows, and peaceful ambience.
Royaumont Abbey: Nestled amidst lush greenery, Royaumont Abbey is a serene and historically significant abbey. Its tranquil gardens and impressive architecture makes it a peaceful retreat and cultural destination.

Consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and gardens.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes.
Respect the Chateau's rules and regulations, including photography restrictions.
Enjoy a meal or refreshments at the on-site restaurant or café.
Visit during weekdays or non-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water during hot weather, as shade can be limited.

Things To Do At Chateau de Chantilly

Admire the Grand Chateau and Petit Chateau

Take a guided tour of the Grand Chateau and Petit Chateau, each showcasing different architectural styles and eras. Explore the lavish rooms, ornate decorations, and intricate details that exemplify French castle design.

Explore the Musée Condé

Marvel at one of the finest art collections in France, featuring over 700 paintings, 2,500 drawings and prints, and 1,500 literary manuscripts. You will be left in awe when you see masterpieces by Raphael, Watteau, and Delacroix!

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Stroll through the Gardens

Wander through André Le Nôtre's enchanting gardens that boast intricate patterns, fountains, sculptures, and stunning views of the Chateau. Don't miss the Grand Canal, the English Garden, and the French Parterres.

Discover the Great Stables and Horse Museum

Visit the world-class equestrian centre, known for its horse shows, races, and training facilities. The on-site Horse Museum showcases beautiful horse-drawn carriages, riding equipment, and historical exhibits related to equine history.

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Attend a Horse Show or Race

Plan your visit to coincide with one of the many prestigious horse races or shows at Chantilly's racecourse or the Great Stables. It's an unforgettable experience for equine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Delve into the Library

Unearth a treasure trove of literary history with a visit to Chateau de Chantilly's library, which houses over 1,500 manuscripts, some dating back to the Middle Ages. Discover the rich heritage of French literature within these historical volumes.

Sample Chantilly Cream

Don't leave without trying the famous Chantilly cream, a delicious whipped cream that shares its name with the town. Taste it in a local café or sample it as part of a dessert in one of Chantilly's exquisite restaurants.

History of Chateau de Chantilly

Originally built between 1528 and 1531 by Pierre Chambiges for Anne de Montmorency, Constable of France, the first Chateau flaunted Renaissance splendour. Jean Bullant was also one of the architects who efficiently worked on constructing the smaller Petit Chateau. Unfortunately, the ravages of the French Revolution led to its demise in the late 1700s. Undeterred by its tragic past, the flamboyant Henri d'Orléans, Duke of Aumale, commissioned Honoré Daumet to rebuild the Chateau between 1875 and 1882.

A proud patron of the arts, the Duke amassed an incredible collection of paintings, drawings, and manuscripts, now on display at the Musée Condé. Throughout its existence, Chateau de Chantilly has hosted esteemed guests, such as Louis XIV and Napoleon III, and served as a setting for extravagant balls and celebrations. Today, this striking symbol of French heritage welcomes visitors to explore and experience its storied past. So go on, rendezvous with history and grandeur at Chateau de Chantilly!

Who Built Chateau de Chantilly?

The original Chateau de Chantilly was built between 1528 and 1531 by renowned French architect Pierre Chambiges, a brilliant artist who designed several grand Renaissance-style chateaus in France. In 1560, Jean Bullant was commissioned to work on the smaller Petit Chateau. As fate tested the Chateau's resilience and the French Revolution paved the way for its destruction, the bold Duke of Aumale struck back in full power back in the late 1800s by commissioning Honoré Daumet to manifest a fresh, awe-inspiring iteration of the historic castle. The union of Bullant's original vision and Daumet's revival encapsulates the compelling evolution of French architectural grace – the one you can see to date!

The architecture of Chateau de Chantilly

The Chateau de Chantilly was majorly built with stones and bricks, a steeply sloping roof, arched entrances, turrets and towers, and dormer windows. The French Renaissance style entirely influences the design. The smaller Petit Chateau followed a proto-Baroque style, connecting itself to the main Chateau via a bridge. The Chateau went through grave destruction due to the impending French Revolution, barely allowing the substructure to survive. Honoré Daumet built on the original foundation and showcased the beautiful French Renaissance Revival style, trying to keep the architectural structures close to what they once were.

Architectural design of Chateau de Chantilly

Frequently Asked Questions About Chateau de Chantilly

How long should I spend at Chateau de Chantilly?

Allocate at least 3-4 hours to truly immerse yourself in the art, architecture, gardens, and equestrian experiences at Chateau de Chantilly.

Is it worth visiting Chateau de Chantilly?

Chateau de Chantilly offers a unique blend of art, history, and nature, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Parisian region.

What is the primary purpose of Chateau de Chantilly?

Chateau de Chantilly serves as a museum, showcasing an impressive art collection and historical artefacts while offering beautiful gardens and a world-class equestrian centre.

Is Chateau de Chantilly suitable for kids?

Children will enjoy exploring the castle, gardens, and equestrian centre, making it a delightful family-friendly day trip.

Can I get there by public transport from Paris?

Yes, Chantilly is easily accessible by public transportation like bus and train.

Are there any good restaurants nearby?

Several dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining, are available in the charming town of Chantilly, offering delicious local cuisine and the famous Chantilly cream. There are also some options on the site!

Is the Chateau accessible for visitors with mobility issues?

While wheelchair access is available for most areas of Chateau de Chantilly, some staircases may not provide access. Make sure to contact the Chateau in advance for specific details.

Can I host my wedding or special event at Chateau de Chantilly?

The Chateau de Chantilly is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations, offering a truly unforgettable backdrop for any occasion.

When is the best time to visit Chateau de Chantilly?

Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon hours can help you avoid crowds, giving you ample opportunity to experience the Chateau's unique offerings.