Château de Chantilly

The Basics

Construction began on the original Château de Chantilly in 1528, but the castle was largely destroyed in 1799 during the French Revolution. The grand castle that stands today—commissioned by the Duke of Aumale, son of the last king of France—was redesigned by architect Honoré Baumet, and construction took place from 1875 to 1885. The château is renowned for its extravagant Renaissance style and for the Musée Condé, which includes works by Botticelli, Raphael, Delacroix, and Ingres. In 2013, the Musée du Cheval (Horse Museum) was installed in the palace’s Grand Stables, and equestrian shows are held on the grounds throughout the year.

The Château de Chantilly is included in the Paris Pass, and numerous tour options from Paris are available. Private tours provide a hassle-free way to explore.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A number of admission options are available, including tickets to the entire complex; tickets to the grounds; or tickets to the Great Stables, Musée du Cheval, and an equestrian show.

• The château’s ground floor is accessible to visitors with mobility issues.

• There are several restaurants and a hotel on-site.

How to Get There

The Château de Chantilly is located within day trip distance from Paris. Take the RER D or select SNCF trains to the Chantilly-Gouvieux station. The castle can also be reached by car: Take the A3 or A1 motorway from Paris and look for the Chantilly exit. Paid parking is provided on-site.

When to Get There

The Château de Chantilly has two open seasons. During low season—late October to late March—it is open every day but Tuesday, 10:30am to 5pm. During high season—late March to early October—it is open daily from 10am to 6pm. The château is closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and for several weeks in mid-January.

The Palace Grounds

Set on a sweeping stretch of land and ringed by artificial lakes, the Château de Chantilly is celebrated for the beauty of its surroundings. The formal garden was designed in part by André Le Nôtre, who helped create the gardens at Versailles. Another highlight is the Hameau de Chantilly, a folly comprising several rustic cottages that inspired Marie Antoinette’s Hameau de la Reine at Versailles.

Ways to explore

Due to its popularity, Château de Chantilly often has long lines, so booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid the wait. Admission typically includes access to the castle’s interiors, beautifully landscaped gardens, stables, and any temporary exhibitions. For a more personalized experience, some travelers opt for private day trips that include car transportation from Paris. Alternatively, Chantilly can be visited on guided bike tours or with a Paris Museum Pass, for an economical way to see plenty of attractions in and around the city.

Accessibility

Due to the building’s historic nature, some areas may be hard to reach via wheelchair, but wheelchair users can access the large suites, the reading rooms, the shop, the stables, and the museum.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, small bag, refillable water bottle, snacks

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layered clothing

Not allowed

Photos or videos during equestrian shows or demonstrations, in order not to scare the horses.

Amenities

Restaurant, restrooms, golf car rental, baby-changing facilities

Address

The Château de Chantilly is a day trip from Paris, reachable by car or train in about an hour. For extra convenience, opt for a tour that includes transportation and a guided visit.

Driving

The château is easily accessible by car via the A3 or A1 from Paris, using the Chantilly exit. Paid parking is available nearby for visitors.

Public transportation

Take the RER D train or an SNCF regional train to Chantilly-Gouvieux. From there, it’s a quick taxi ride or a 30-minute walk to the castle.

Best times to visit

It’s best to arrive at Chantilly in the morning to avoid large afternoon crowds and have a quieter, more peaceful experience.

Best days to visit

The castle is closed on Tuesdays. Any other day is inviting for a visit, but weekdays are the most relaxed.

Best months to visit

The site is typically closed for a few weeks in January, so it’s best to come outside of these months, ideally in June or September.

Special events

Check the events calendar before visiting—annual events include the Château de Chantilly Triathlon, typically in June—as well as evening picnics.