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From serving as a filming location for numerous moving including The Da Vinci Code & Marie Antoinette to being one of the spaces where Napoleon Bonaparte banned all smoking indoors, Château de Fontainebleau has several hidden treasures of information and real treasures to offer. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect inside Château de Fontainebleau during your visit:
Experience the grandeur of Fontainebleau's Grand Apartments, where history unfolds amidst luxurious tapestries and ornate furnishings. Did you know that these opulent chambers served as a residence for numerous French monarchs, including King Louis XIV?
Transport yourself to a bygone era of elegance in Fontainebleau's Ballroom. Dance enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that this magnificent space hosted the renowned Ballets de Cour, a unique dance form popularized by King Louis XIV himself.
An exquisite testament to French Renaissance opulence, the Throne Room is adorned with rich tapestries, gilded woodwork, and a majestic ceiling painted by Rosso Fiorentino, it served as the backdrop for significant royal ceremonies, embodying the power and magnificence of the French monarchy.
Discover a haven of tranquility within Fontainebleau's Chapel, where centuries-old religious art and architecture converge. Delve into the captivating history of this sacred space, which served as the wedding venue for numerous French monarchs including Francis I and Eleanor of Austria, Henry II and Catherine de' Medici & even Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Spain.
Château de Fontainebleau’s gardens are an artistic wonder of nature. Admire the flowerbeds designed by André Le Nôtre, the mastermind behind the world-famous gardens of Versailles. Keep an eye out for the "Carp Pond," once home to a vibrant collection of exotic fish, adding a touch of whimsy to the gardens.
Used last in 1789 shortly before the French Revolution broke out, Marie Antoinette's Theatre was an intimate enclosure styled in the Rococo technique. An interesting fact is the Queen herself once took center stage, performing alongside her closest friends in private productions. Discover the small stage and its unique design that add to the flare of the estate.
Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of the East at Fontainebleau's Chinese Museum. Uncover a surprising fact: this collection was amassed by Emperor Napoleon I, who was enchanted by Chinese culture. Admire the intricate lacquerware, delicate porcelain, and ornate furniture, all reflecting the fascination that swept through Europe during the Age of Enlightenment.
Step into a gallery fit for a king in the Francis I Gallery. Marvel at the extraordinary ceiling adorned with more than 1,500 carved and gilded medallions, depicting a diverse array of historical and mythological figures. Discover the hidden symbolism and intriguing stories behind each intricate masterpiece, as you traverse this remarkable tribute to art and power.
The Horseshoe Staircase is a true architectural gem nestled within the palace. This extraordinary double helix staircase was designed by the famous architect Philibert de l'Orme, who sought inspiration from ancient Roman designs. Marvel at the symmetry and balanced curves as you embark on a stairway to history.
If you’ve got some more time to spare or simply looking to indulge in fun activities on palace grounds, here are a few of the activities you can avail of at an additional cost.
The Château de Fontainebleau is open every day of the week except Tuesdays.
Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, and December 25
The best time to visit the Palace of Fontainebleau is during the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays when it is less crowded. Avoiding weekends and public holidays can also help you have a more relaxed experience on the site.
Location: 77300 Fontainebleau, France | Find on Map
By Train: The closest train station to the Palace of Fontainebleau is Fontainebleau-Avon which is 3 km away from the Palace. You can take bus lines 1, 3, and 21 from the station to the Château. From there it’s a 2-minute walk.
By Car: It will take you approximately 2 hours to get to the Palace of Fontainebleau from Paris. The nearest parking spot is Interparking Château Car Park (1 min away)
Trust us, you'll be doing a fair bit of exploring here. The palace and its vast gardens have so much to offer that you'll want to be prepared for a little walking. Comfortable shoes will keep you happily exploring without any foot-related complaints.
As you wander through the opulent rooms and galleries, you'll come across countless historic artifacts. Remember, these treasures are priceless, so please refrain from touching them or getting too close.
We totally understand wanting to capture the beauty of Château de Fontainebleau. However, in some sections, photography might be prohibited, and in all areas, flash photography or tripods are banned.
Château de Fontainebleau is a place of tranquility and elegance. To fully appreciate its enchanting ambiance, let's keep the noise levels to a minimum. Avoid loud conversations and turn off any noisy gadgets to get the full immersive experience.
While it might be tempting to have a cozy picnic amidst the picturesque scenery, please note that picnicking is not permitted inside the Château. There are designated outdoor areas, like the lovely gardens, where you can enjoy your snacks. Don’t forget to grab a photo of your wonderful picnic basket!
Given that you can enter anytime and stay till closing hours, remember to take your time, soak in the grandeur, and let the history seep into your soul. Unwind in the gardens, marvel at the architectural details, and imagine the stories that unfolded within these walls.
If you're an early bird, arriving at Château de Fontainebleau in the morning can be a smart move. You'll have a chance to explore the grandeur with fewer people around. Don’t forget to carry a fan or a hat while visiting on a hot summer day as there’s a fair amount of outdoor walking involved.
Before you embark on your journey through history, grab a handy map at the entrance. It'll serve as your trusty companion, guiding you through the labyrinth of rooms, gardens, and secret corners. Plus, it's a great souvenir to bring back home.
On your way out, don't forget to browse the charming gift shop. From historical books and replicas to unique trinkets and artisan crafts, you'll find a treasure trove of souvenirs to remind you of your visit.
The palace is a blend of architectural wonders from various periods, so expect a few steps, narrow passages, and uneven surfaces. Take your time, watch your step, and be considerate of others.
Apart from the thousand rooms, theatre museum, and fountains, don’t forget to visit lesser-known spots like Grotte des Pins.
If you love aesthetic spots, capture the best of highlights for the gram or the memories at these locations: The Grand Escalier, The Courtyard of Honor, The Mirror Gallery, The Fountain of Diane.
A. You can purchase Château de Fontainebleau tickets online. It’s recommended that you book your tickets online to guarantee your spot, avoid queueing, and access the best of deals.
A. Palace of Fontainebleau tickets start as low as €14 per person.
A. Children under the age of 18, students, disabled individuals with 1 companion, and EU citizens under 26 can enter the Palace of Fontainebleau for free. Additionally, entry to the Château de Fontainebleau is free on the first Sunday of every month except in July and August.
A. Your tickets will include entry to skip-the-line access to Château de Fontainebleau including the Great Apartments circuit, Napoleon I Museum, temporary exhibitions, parklands, and gardens
A. The best way to buy Château de Fontainebleau tickets is to purchase them online. This is a sure-shot way of securing your spot, skipping the lines, and getting the best of offers.
A. Children under 18 enjoy free access to Château de Fontainebleau.
A. Yes, children under 18, students, disabled individuals with 1 companion, and EU citizens under 26 years of age enjoy free entry to the Château de Fontainebleau. The Palace also allows free access to all on the first Sunday of every month except July and August.
A. While your tickets cannot be canceled, they do have an extended validity period and can be used anytime before February 6, 2025.
A. Your tickets have an extended validity period and can be used anytime before February 6, 2025.
A. If you’re on a budget, the best Château de Fontainebleau ticket option would be the standard admission ticket that comes with access to top attractions within and skip-the-line entry.
A. Yes, your Château de Fontainebleau tickets include skip-the-line entry to the estate.
A. Château de Fontainebleau is located in the town of Fontainebleau, France, approximately 55 kilometers southeast of Paris. The complete address is, Château de Fontainebleau, 77300 Fontainebleau, France.
A. The best ways to reach Château de Fontainebleau are by train or by car. Regular train services run from Paris to Fontainebleau, and driving offers flexibility for exploring the area.
A. Château de Fontainebleau is open every day except Tuesdays. The timings are 9:30 AM to 6 PM (last admission at 5:15 PM) from April to September and 9:30 AM to 5 PM (last admission at 4:15 PM) from October to March.