If you’re visiting Paris and looking to explore more of France’s rich history and beautiful architecture, a day trip to Chantilly Castle is a perfect choice. Located just 50 kilometers north of Paris, Château de Chantilly offers a stunning mix of Renaissance architecture, expansive gardens, and one of the finest art collections in France. Here’s how you can include Chantilly in your Paris adventure.
Why visit Chantilly Castle?
Chantilly Castle, or Château de Chantilly, is one of the most beautiful castles in France, set amidst picturesque gardens and forests. This stunning estate is renowned for its:
- Grand architecture: The château itself, rebuilt in the 19th century, showcases an impressive blend of Renaissance and medieval styles.
- Art collection: Chantilly is home to the Musée Condé, one of the most important art collections in France, featuring works by Raphael, Poussin, and Delacroix, along with rare manuscripts and books.
- Gardens: The castle is surrounded by beautifully manicured French-style gardens designed by André Le Nôtre, the famous landscape architect who also designed the gardens at Versailles.
- Equestrian legacy: Chantilly is also famous for its connection to horse racing, with the Living Museum of the Horse and the nearby Chantilly Racecourse, one of the oldest and most prestigious racetracks in the country.
How to get to Chantilly Castle from Paris
Chantilly is easily accessible from Paris, making it an ideal day trip destination.
- Train: The quickest and most convenient way to reach Chantilly from Paris is by train. Direct trains run from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux station, and the journey takes about 25 minutes. From the station, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to the château.
- Car: If you prefer to drive, Chantilly is about a 50-minute journey from Paris via the A1 highway. Parking is available near the château.
- Guided Tours: For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour from Paris. These tours typically include round-trip transport, a guided visit to the château, and sometimes additional activities such as lunch or visits to other nearby sites.
Highlights of Chantilly Castle
There’s plenty to see and do at Château de Chantilly, making it a rich and rewarding destination. Here are the main highlights:
- The Château: Inside the château, you can explore lavishly decorated rooms, including the Grand Apartments, which provide a glimpse into aristocratic life. The rooms are adorned with period furniture, tapestries, and exquisite art. Don’t miss the Gallery of Paintings, which houses masterpieces by the likes of Raphael and Botticelli.
- Musée Condé: This world-class museum boasts one of the most impressive private collections of artwork in France. It’s often compared to the Louvre for the quality of its pieces, especially its collection of 16th and 17th-century paintings. The Library and Cabinet des Livres also house rare manuscripts and early printed books.
- The Gardens: The sprawling gardens around the château are a masterpiece of French landscape design. You can stroll through the meticulously manicured parterres, admire the reflective ponds, or enjoy the English Garden and Anglo-Chinese Garden. The Great Stables and Racecourse are also nearby.
- The Great Stables and Horse Museum: A unique feature of the Chantilly estate is its Living Horse Museum, located in the Great Stables, a majestic 18th-century structure. The museum is dedicated to the art of horsemanship and features exhibits on horse breeds, training, and equestrian history. You can also watch daily horse shows.
Perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts
Chantilly Castle is an ideal destination for art lovers, thanks to the Musée Condé. With works from some of the most celebrated European artists, it’s a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque art. History buffs will also enjoy learning about the château’s fascinating past, including its destruction during the French Revolution and its rebuilding in the 19th century by Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale.
A taste of Chantilly’s famous cream
Chantilly is also famous for something sweet: Chantilly cream. This light, whipped cream, often flavored with vanilla, originated here, and no visit is complete without trying a dish topped with this regional specialty. You can sample Chantilly cream at several cafés and restaurants in the town or on the château grounds.
How to plan your Chantilly Castle visit from Paris
Depending on how much time you have, you can tailor your trip to Chantilly:
- Day Trip: A visit to Chantilly makes for a perfect day trip from Paris. Spend the morning exploring the château and art galleries, enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, and then spend the afternoon wandering through the gardens or visiting the horse museum.
- Stay overnight: If you want to explore the area in more depth, consider staying overnight. Chantilly offers a selection of charming hotels, and spending the night allows you to enjoy the quiet beauty of the grounds after the daytime visitors have left.
Stay at Hotel Bedford as a base
If you’re staying in Paris, Hotel Bedford is an excellent choice for its prime location near the Opera district, offering easy access to both Gare du Nord for your trip to Chantilly and other major Paris attractions. The hotel’s blend of classic elegance and modern comfort makes it ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration. Don’t miss dining at the Victoria Restaurant inside the hotel for a delightful meal before or after your Chantilly adventure.
Tips for visiting Chantilly Castle
- Opening hours: Check the château’s website for seasonal opening times and special events before your visit.
- Guided tours: To get the most out of your visit, consider booking a guided tour that delves into the history and art of the château.
- Explore the town: Don’t just limit your visit to the château—Chantilly itself is a charming town with quaint streets, restaurants, and shops that are worth exploring.
- Comfortable shoes: The estate is large, and you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear.
Chantilly Castle offers an incredible blend of art, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone staying in Paris. Whether you’re drawn by the magnificent art collection, the stunning gardens, or the fascinating equestrian legacy, this enchanting château promises an unforgettable experience.
