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 .

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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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The château

De chantilly.

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• Château de Chantilly
• One of France’s most beautiful sites, with an amazing park. A city of art and history now become the “capital of the horse”.
• The Montmorency and Condé families, the Duc d'Aumale – princely patrons and proprietors.
• Paintings, porcelains, the library (with the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry manuscript dating from the 15th century), the Singerie (“monkey room”) and its 18th-century vignettes....
• Vatel, maître d’hôtel to Nicolas Fouquet and then to the Grand Condé in the 17th century, between myth and reality: the invention of crème chantilly (whipped cream).

Tour 1: half-day classic tour (transfer + visit + free time)

In Chantilly our guide will introduce to you one of the finest collections of paintings (after the Louvre), also containing an impressive library with a collection of rare and precious volumes. You can extend your visit with a tour of the stables and the horse museum.

From April to June, daily except Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. From July 1 to September 30, daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. In October, daily except Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. From November to March, daily except Tuesday, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Park closes at 8 p.m.

Restaurant Shop Disabled access (except for the Duc d’Aumale private apartments)

Direct, no-lines access: reservation required for groups (30 people maximum per guide)

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Château de Chantilly – tickets, prices, discounts, timings, what to expect, FAQs

The Château de Chantilly is a historic castle located in Chantilly, France, approximately 50 kilometers north of Paris.

It is renowned for its stunning architecture, extensive art collections, picturesque gardens, and rich cultural heritage. 

The château is considered one of the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture and is a popular destination for tourists and art enthusiasts.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Château de Chantilly France.

Top Château de Chantilly Tickets

# Tickets for Château de Chantilly # Tickets for Château de Chantilly: Gardens Entrance # Château de Pierrefonds + Château de Chantilly

Table of contents

What to expect at château de chantilly.

Château de Chantilly in France offers a rich array of attractions.

The castle has two wings: the medieval-style Petit Château and the opulent Grand Château from the 19th century, housing an extensive art collection.

The Musée Condé within the estate boasts an impressive collection of antique paintings, rivaled only by the Louvre in France, featuring works by renowned artists.

The meticulously designed gardens, spanning 115 hectares, include formal French and English-style gardens and a vast park with lakes and pavilions, highlighted by the two-kilometer-long Grand Canal.

Lastly, the estate features the Grandes Écuries, hosting the Living Museum of the Horse, where visitors can enjoy equestrian shows, learn about horse history, and attend cultural events, including horse racing.

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Where to book tickets

You can purchase your Château de Chantilly entry tickets at the attraction or online in advance.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out.

Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

How do online tickets work

Go to The Château de Chantilly ticket booking page , select your preferred date and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets instantly.

Once you purchase Château de Chantilly tickets, they get delivered to your email address. 

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket. 

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.

Château de Chantilly France ticket prices

The Château de Chantilly France tickets are priced at €17 for adults over 18 years.

Children aged between seven and 17, disabled people, and job seekers get a 20% discount and pay only €13 for entry.

Kids under seven do not require a ticket and can enter the Châteaux for free.

Château de Chantilly tickets

Tickets for the Château de Chantilly France include access to various parts of the estate like the Château, Condé Museum, the Stables, and the Horse Museum

This allows visitors to explore its rich history, art collections, and beautiful gardens.

Visitors can also take a look at the temporary exhibitions without paying anything.

An audio guide is also available at an additional charge of €3.

Entry to the Gardens and the Equestrian Show is excluded, and you can book separate tickets.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (18+ years): €17 Child Ticket (7 to 17 years): €13 Student Ticket: €13 Disabled Visitor Ticket: €13 Job Seeker Ticket: €13

Tickets for Château de Chantilly: Gardens Entrance

The Château de Chantilly is surrounded by breathtaking gardens integral to the visitor experience, and this ticket grants you access to these beautiful gardens.

The Gardens feature meticulously manicured lawns, ornamental flowerbeds, fountains, and charming walking paths. 

You can wander through the English Garden, the French Garden, and the Anglo-Chinese Garden, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the landscape.

Ticket Cost: €9

Château de Pierrefonds + Château de Chantilly

The Château de Chantilly is located just 50 km (31 miles) from Château de Pierrefonds and can be reached within 50 minutes by car.

Booking a combo ticket allows you to maximize your time and explore two impressive châteaux without extensive travel.

Pierrefonds is a medieval fortress restored in the 19th century, boasting impressive ramparts, towers, and a picturesque setting. 

On the other hand, Chantilly is a Renaissance-style château with elegant interiors and a more refined atmosphere. 

The Château de Pierrefonds is amidst the Compiegne Forest, offering a serene and natural environment.

Combining both visits allows you to appreciate the architectural beauty of the châteaux while also enjoying the natural surroundings.

Ticket Cost: €22

Get the all-in-one Paris City Card and avail access to the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, a sightseeing cruise along the Seine, and a super-handy audio guide app along with a 10% personal discount to use on all iconic Paris attractions and activities on Tiqets.

How to reach Château de Chantilly in France

The Château de Chantilly is located in Chantilly, a town in the Oise department in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. 

Address: 60500 Chantilly, France. Get Directions

You can reach The Château de Chantilly by both public and private transportation.

We recommend using public transport to reach the attraction.

You can board the DUC and NAVTOUR buses to reach the Château Bus Stop , a 4-minute walk from Château de Chantilly.

You can take the D and TER Train Line to the Gare de Chantilly Gouvieux Train Station , a 4-minute drive away.

If you’re driving by car, turn on Google Maps on your smartphone and get started.

The Château de Chantilly does not have a parking lot.

However, there are several public parking garages located nearby that you can use.

Opening hours of Château de Chantilly

The Château de Chantilly opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm every Wednesday to Monday.

The Château Grounds close at 8 pm.

The historical site remains closed on Tuesdays.

How long does the tour take

The Château de Chantilly tour usually takes around half a day.

Begin by exploring the Château de Chantilly’s Large Suites, Gallery of Paintings, and Reading Room.

Indulge in a delightful lunch at either the restaurant in the château’s former Vatel’s kitchens or the restaurant in the Hamlet, nestled within the Anglo-Chinese garden. 

Both options offer a chance to savor authentic Chantilly whipped cream.

You can also consider trying one of the excellent bistros on rue du Connétable in Chantilly for a meal.

Don’t miss the equestrian demonstration scheduled for 2:30 pm.

Take the opportunity to visit the Museum of the Horse during your time at Chantilly.

Conclude your day with a stroll through the estate’s expansive grounds, including the French formal garden, the Anglo-Chinese garden, and the English garden.

Best time to visit Château de Chantilly

The best time to visit The Château de Chantilly in France is as soon as it opens at 10 am.

If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends. 

Weekends and public holidays attract more visitors, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Consider the weather conditions that suit your preferences. 

If you enjoy mild temperatures and lush gardens, aim for spring or autumn.

If you prefer warmer weather for outdoor activities, summer might be the ideal time. 

Winter can provide a different ambiance, especially if you enjoy a quieter and more intimate visit.

Historical Significance of the Château de Chantilly France

The history of Château de Chantilly dates back to the 16th century when it was originally built as a fortress for the Montmorency family. 

Over the centuries, it underwent significant transformations under the ownership of various noble families, each adding its architectural elements and expanding its grandeur. 

Notably, it was in the hands of the Bourbon-Condé family, one of France’s most powerful and influential families, that Château de Chantilly reached its peak splendor.

Whether drawn to its historical significance, artistic masterpieces, or breathtaking gardens, Château de Chantilly offers a captivating experience for its visitors.

The beauty of Château de Chantilly immerses visitors in France’s past’s grandeur and cultural richness. 

Its harmonious blend of architectural splendor, artistic treasures, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.

Especially if you want to explore the region’s heritage and indulge in the charm of one of France’s most enchanting castles.

What to see at the Château de Chantilly

Here are some places you should see while you’re at the Château de Chantilly:

The Château

The castle has two main wings: the Petit Château (Small Castle) and the Grand Château (Great Castle). 

The Petit Château is the oldest part, characterized by its medieval-style towers and defensive elements. 

The Grand Château, constructed during the 19th century, showcases the opulence and elegance of the Renaissance and Rococo periods. 

It houses a remarkable collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and rare manuscripts.

The Musée Condé

One of the most renowned features of Château de Chantilly is the Musée Condé.

It holds the second-largest collection of antique paintings in France, surpassed only by the Louvre Museum in Paris. 

The museum boasts masterpieces by artists such as Raphael, Botticelli, Delacroix, and Ingres. 

Additionally, it is famous for its extensive library, which contains over 13,000 manuscripts and 45,000 printed works, including a priceless collection of medieval manuscripts.

The Gardens

The Château de Chantilly’s Gardens are a true delight for visitors. 

Designed by André Le Nôtre, the famed landscape architect responsible for the gardens of Versailles, they encompass a vast area of 115 hectares. 

The gardens consist of formal French gardens, English-style gardens, and an expansive park dotted with lakes, canals, and charming pavilions. 

The Grand Canal, stretching over two kilometers, is impressive and provides a picturesque backdrop for strolls.

The Grandes Écuries

Château de Chantilly offers visitors a range of experiences beyond its architectural and artistic treasures. 

The estate also includes the Great Stables (Grandes Écuries), which house the Living Museum of the Horse. 

Here, visitors can witness equestrian shows and learn about the history and training of horses. 

Additionally, the château hosts various cultural events, including horse racing events and the prestigious Prix de Diane horse race.

FAQs about the Château de Chantilly

Here are some FAQs about the Château de Chantilly France:

Is there an admission fee to visit Château de Chantilly?

Yes, there is an admission fee to visit Château de Chantilly.  The Château de Chantilly France tickets cost €17 for adults over 18 years

How can I purchase Château de Chantilly tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online through The Château de Chantilly ticket booking page or at the ticket counter on-site.  Online ticketing is recommended to avoid potential queues

Are there audio guides available at the château?

Yes, audio guides are available on-site in multiple languages, providing detailed information about the château, its history, and its art collections

Can I take photographs inside the château?

Photography is not allowed inside the château’s museum and art galleries to preserve the artworks.  However, photography without flash is allowed inside the Château and in the Museum of the Horse.

Is there a horse museum at Château de Chantilly?

The château is also known for the Grandes Écuries (Great Stables).

Are there gift shops at Château de Chantilly?

Yes, there are gift shops and boutiques within the château where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, art prints, and other items.

Can I leave the Château de Chantilly and re-enter again on the same day?

Yes! The tickets provide a full-day tour, and you can re-enter again.

Does Château de Chantilly offer free admission to visitors?

The Château de Chantilly is a private estate; hence, all visitors must purchase tickets for entry.

Are there dining options at Château de Chantilly?

Yes, there are dining options at Château de Chantilly.  The estate includes several restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy meals, snacks, or refreshments. These establishments offer a variety of cuisine, including traditional French dishes.

Is Château de Chantilly accessible to visitors with limited mobility?

Not all areas of the Chateau are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. For instance, the large suites and the reading room (via the cour d’honneur), the shop (via the courtyard in the “Petit Château”), the Grounds, the Great Stables, and the Museum of the Horse are wheelchair accessible, but other parts of the estate are not.

What are the opening hours of Château de Chantilly?

The opening hours of Château de Chantilly are 10 am to 6 pm every day except for Tuesdays.

Photography is not allowed inside the château’s museum and art galleries to preserve the artworks.  However, photography without flash is allowed inside the Château and in the Museum of the Horse.

Yes, audio guides are available on-site in multiple languages, providing detailed information about the château, its history, and its art collections.

Are there souvenir shops at Château de Chantilly?

Sources # Chateaudechantilly.fr # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Jamshed V Rajan

He is a two-faced traveler, who enjoys both the hustle-bustle of an urban holiday and the serenity of a break from the rest of the World. During some of his vacations, he is a resort hopper, and on others, he barely spends time in his hotel. He loves to try mouth-watering local cuisines, especially non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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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

Journées Européennes du Patrimoine

Journées Européennes du Patrimoine 2022

Rediscover the Château de Chantilly!

Special rate for the whole weekend ( excluding the equestrian show and the Chantilly mapping, the Rock of Treasures)

Equestrian shows

Show Ticket "Un jour à Paris"

Show Ticket "Un jour à Paris" from 7 April to  June, 30 then from September, 19 to October,31 2024 

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

Equestrian Show + Visit of the castle

1 Day ticket + Show Ticket "Un jour à Paris"

1 Day tickets + Show Ticket"Un jour à Paris" form April, 7 to June, 30 then from September, 19 to October,31 2024 

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 tour of the Boulle exhibition from June 6th to October 6th, 2024

Guide tour of the Boulle exhibition from June 6th  to October 6th, 2024

Journées des Plantes

Les Journées des Plantes from October 11 to 13, 2024

Come and discover or rediscover the Plants Days !

From 11 to 13 October 2024

Chantilly cream workshops

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

Course only in French language

Horseback Riding Henson

Come and discover Chantilly on horseback with Espace Equestre Henson!

Annual Pass

Adhésion fake.

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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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Château de Chantilly tour

Take your time to stroll through the vast 115 hectare park, a unique testimony to the history of Western gardens in Europe. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Living Horse Museum, both an ethnological and art museum under the same roof.

You will be able to spend two and a half hours exploring the castle and its garden.

The visited monuments

• Chantilly castle

Departure location Chantilly castle tour

Place de la Nation, at level of Avenue du Trône, 75011 Paris Subway: Nation station, line 1, 2, 6, 9 RER (Regional Express Network): Nation station, line A Bus : Nation stop, line 26, 56, 57 Possibility to pick you up at the place of your choice (optional)

Departure times

8h30 – 9h – 9h30 – 10h

Enjoy a unique experience!

Enjoy a bottle of champagne during the tour/ 39 euros.

Savour an assortment of macaroons during the tour/ 9 euros per person.

We take you in picture at different places of your choice and you receive yours pictures by email / 19 euros.

Pick-up / Drop-off to the spot of your choice

You choose yourself the place of departure / arrival of the tour / 19 euros. N.B. : The possible places of departure / arrival are limited to the first 10 districts of Paris.

Enjoy a picnic including a sandwich, a dessert and a drink. Ideal to visit the gardens / 15 euros per person.

Book you Chantilly castle tour now

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The Good Life France

Everything You Want to Know About France and More...

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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Chantilly Senlis Tourisme

• Business tourism

The destination

Chantilly Castle

The Asterix park

The medieval town of Senlis

Chantilly cream and Cotignac from the arenas

• Remarkable sites
• Villages of character
• land of cinema

Activities & visits

Sites to visit and museums

Curiosities

Guided tours

Hikes and walks

Visitor routes

Leisure activities

Application Chantilly-Senlis differently: Canals of Chantilly

Local producers and artisans

Accommodation

Restaurants and tea rooms

Practical information

• Interactive map
• In the family

All the diary

• This week-end
• Young audience

Concerts, shows and conferences

• Terroir, know-how and flea markets

Festivals and events

Je recherche

Discover the Castle, the Condé Museum, the park,...

In Senlis, dive into 2000 years of history!...

A veritable green lung north of Paris, Chantilly-Senlis...

Welcome to the craziest of parks...

True Land of horses thanks to the diversity...

An astonishing immersive experience by becoming, for a day or a few days, actors in the History of France.

Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille

European Heritage Days on the Chantilly-Senlis destination

Les Coups de Cœur des Siècles at Chantilly

Experience unique emotions

A horse race, polo training, a few golf balls, a run or for the more adventurous Parc Astérix will delight everyone! Impossible to get bored.

Senlis treasure hunt

Henson Chantilly-Apremont Equestrian Center

Awaken your senses

Dreams, strolls, romantic walks, gastronomy, we cultivate the art of living where emotion is king.

Meet the magic

In the heart of the PNR Oise - Pays de France, Between forest and countryside, you will enjoy the green spaces, for great hiking, cycling or horse riding.

Circuits of armorial posts in the Halatte forest

Treasure hunt: "The crazy adventures of Louison Pignon".

The ponds of Commelles

The agenda of outings, shows, exhibitions and parties.

Our selection of unmissable events and highlights that punctuate our cultural season.

Exhibitions, celebrations and festivals

Celebrating 20 years of the Oise - Pays de France Regional Nature Park

15 September 2024

Parc de la Mairie, 60520 LA CHAPELLE-EN-SERVAL

Guided tour of the city of Senlis

From the 9€ / adult

Office de Tourisme, bureau de Senlis, 60300 SENLIS

Exhibitions, celebrations and festivals, Concerts, shows and conferences

Festival la Scène au jardin 2024 in the Potager des Princes

From 19 July 2024 to 22 September 2024

From the 15€ / adult

Potager des Princes, 60500 CHANTILLY

group travel

Suggestions for half-day or full-day visits to explore the splendors of the destination.

Manse and cream

Duration : 2h30

The striking story of a unique heritage: Chantilly lace

Duration : 1h30

Museum of Art and Archeology of Senlis

Duration : 2 hours

In the footsteps of Seraphine

How to book your trip.

Alicia offers you a wide choice of discoveries of Chantilly-Senlis and organizes your tailor-made excursion.

Welcome to Chantilly-Senlis!

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TravelAwaits

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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.

• The 10 Best Things To...

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

One of the museums inside the Domaine de Chantilly is the Musée Condé, considered to be one of the most prestigious art galleries in the country. Designed in the 19th century by Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, to display his extensive art collection, the layout of the paintings remains unchanged since. After the Louvre, the Musée Condé houses the second-largest number of antique paintings in the country.

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.

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.

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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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The Château de Chantilly: Best Day Trip From Paris

Last Updated: January 2, 2024 By Alison Browne Leave a Comment

When looking for a day trip from Paris that is dreamy and fairytale-like, head to the Château de Chantilly, France. The stunning castle reflected in its surrounding pond, the Grand Stables, beautiful gardens and the incredible art collection will keep you entertained for the better part of a day. 

The Château de Chantilly From Paris: Practicalities

Where is the château de chantilly.

Chantilly is about 40 km (25 miles) north of Paris in the Picardie region of France. Chantilly is a small town and also the name of the castle, Château de Chantilly.

What Is The Domaine de Chantilly? 

The Domaine (Domain) de Chantilly refers to the exceptional Château de Chantilly, the grounds, and the Grand Stables. The Domaine de Chantilly covers 7830 hectares or 19 348 acres.

How To Get To Chantilly Castle From Paris: 

By train: .

To get to the Château de Chantilly from Paris, head to the Gare du Nord and purchase your ticket to Chantilly-Gouvieux. Alternatively, use an app like Trainline and purchase your ticket online. 

The train to get to the Domaine de Chantilly from Paris takes about 25 minutes.

Upon arrival, walk 15 minutes either through the little town of Chantilly or through the Chantilly forest (the shortcut). At certain times of the year, there is a shuttle that runs from the train station to the Château de Chantilly, but be prepared to walk. 

Pro Travel Tips :

• The Gare du Nord is the biggest train station in Paris, be aware of travel scams and in particular pickpockets. 
• Be sure you know the time that your train departs from Chantilly to return to Paris. They do not run all that frequently and you do not want to be stranded. 

By Car: 

Driving to Chantilly from Paris takes a little over an hour, depending on the traffic. Take the A3 and/or A1 highway and then exit “Chantilly” or D316 and D317. It is highly recommended to use GPS. 

Planning Your Paris Trip ? Be sure to book in advance for the most popular things to do. Book your one-hour Seine cruise , a timed-entry ticket to the Louvre , and a skip-the-line ticket to the top of the Arc de Triomphe . And don’t forget a skip-the-line guided tour of Versailles and Disneyland !

The Domaine de Chantilly: Visiting Hours

From March 26 to October 21, 202 3

The Château de Chantilly is open from 10 am to 6 pm (the grounds are open until 8 pm). 

The Great Stables are open from 10 am to 6 pm

From October 22, 2022, to March 24, 2023 

The Château de Chantilly is open from 10:30 am to 5 pm (the grounds are open until 6 pm). 

The Great Stables are open from 10:30 am to 5 pm

Closed Tuesdays

Please Note: The Château de Chantilly is closed from Jan 8 to Jan 26, 2024

Entrance Fees To The Château de Chantilly

A full-day adult entrance fee to the Domaine de Chantilly is 17€. This includes the Château de Chantilly, the grounds, the Great Stables and access to equestrian demonstrations and temporary exhibitions.

The Domaine de Chantilly has many different types of tickets such as family passes, 2-day tickets and tickets to special events. Check them out here .

Organize in advance and get your skip-the-line ticket for the Domaine de Chantilly.

Read More | My recommended day trips from Paris . The most popular Paris day trip is to the glittering Château of Versailles . If the French monarchy interests you, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Château de Fontainebleau or head to the Basilica of St. Denis to see where the kings are laid to rest.

Chantilly Cream

Is this where whipping cream originated? Chantilly cream, known as crème Chantilly in French, is thought to have come from here, Chantilly. This sweetened, delicious whipped cream is found in French pastries and gastronomy!

What better place to savour Chantilly cream than at the Château de Chantilly? Join a workshop to make crème Chantilly at the Château de Chantilly (16€) or simply sample this creamy delight in the restaurant at the Château de Chantilly, La Capitainerie. You can also find waffles or ice cream and Chantilly cream at the food trucks near the entrance to the castle. And, there are many places to try Chantilly cream in the village.

The Château de Chantilly: A Little History

The Château de Chantilly from the time of the Middle Ages has had various princely owners. In 1643 the Château de Chantilly became the property of the Bourbon-Condé family. It stayed in the Bourbon-Condé family until it was bequeathed to Henri d’Orléans, the Duke of Aumale in 1830.

Henri d’Orléans, the Duke of Aumale, (1822-1897) was the son of King Louis-Phillipe, the last king of France. He rebuilt the Château after it had been destroyed during the Revolution and spent his life restoring and improving the Château de Chantilly. The Duke of Aumale’s castle at Chantilly was the perfect place to display his extensive collections of paintings and ancient manuscripts.

Without a direct descendent, Henri d’Orléans, the Duke of Aumale bequeathed his exceptional Domaine de Chantilly to the Institut de France in 1884.

Read More | Want to take a more relaxed approach to exploring the Domaine de Chantilly? Why not stay overnight? There are plenty of hotels to stay in such as this 18th-century post station , a 15-minute walk to the castle.

Best Things To See At The Domaine de Chantilly

1. le château de chantilly: le musee condé.

Henri d’Orléans, one of the greatest collectors of his time, requested that none of his paintings was ever to be loaned. When you wander through his seven galleries, all of Henri d’Orléans paintings are hung, just as he left them.

The musée Condé is indeed a marvel. In each room, the masterpieces are displayed against brilliant coloured walls, such as pink or deep burgundy, hung one above the other, exactly as Henri d’Orléans displayed them.

Look for the three paintings by Raphael, my favourite being The Three Graces . The Psyche Gallery displays 44 stained glass windows and the Stag Gallery is lined with eight magnificent tapestries.

Today, the musée Condé at the Château de Chantilly is the second most important art museum in France after the Louvre.

Read More | Do you love visiting the châteaux of France? Why not plan a trip to one of the most magnificent, the Château de Chambord ? 52 Portraits hanging at the Musée Condé at Chantilly are from the stunning Château of Azay-le-Rideau . Or ones that are not as well known such as Chaumont-sur-Loire or the Château de Brissac . Don’t miss Château d’Amboise perched on a cliff overlooking the Loire River. Don’t miss the elegant Château de Chenonceau , also known as the Ladies’ Castle.

2. Le Château de Chantilly: The Large Suites

Wander through the Music Room, the Gallery of Battles, and the Prince’s Bedroom, and Office. Note the room called the “Grande Singerie” where monkeys (singe in French) are depicted doing human actions! All of these rooms are decorated in a sumptuous fashion with the opulence of royalty.

Being a bit of a gourmand, I loved the dining room! Talk about stepping into a grand event! With golden candle sticks, the handwritten menus are set by each place setting. Seven or eight courses, in the neatest of scripts, are etched in pen along with the name of the guest.

Pro Travel Tip : The private living quarters of the Duc and Duchess of Aumale are accessible by guided tour only.

3. Le Château de Chantilly: The Library

If you are a bookworm, you will love the Library at Chantilly. With over 60000 books and manuscripts, it has a reading room and books displayed on two levels. Rare, illustrated manuscripts are displayed beneath glass casings, perfect for examination.

Warning to all bibliophiles: leave yourself lots of browsing time.

Fall Event : The Château de Chantilly hosts the Chantilly Flower Show every year. In 2023, it takes place on the 12,13, and 14th of May. Heading to Paris in the spring ? Or specifically in the month of May ? Add this to your itinerary.

Paris in the fall is another perfect time to visit the Domain of Chantilly.

4. The Gardens At The Domaine de Chantilly

The grounds at the Château de Chantilly are extensive. When planning your day trip to the Domaine de Chantilly be sure to allow time to leisurely enjoy the various gardens.

The French-style gardens surrounding the Château de Chantilly were designed by André le Nôtre in the 17th century. You may recognize his name as the man who designed the world-famous gardens at the Palace of Versailles. At Chantilly, le Nôtre’s gardens are symmetrical, with plenty of ponds, fountains and a Grand Canal. The reflections in the ponds are magnificent.

The Anglo-Chinese garden created in the 18th century houses a little hamlet of five houses which was the inspiration for Marie Antoinette’s hamlet at the Palace of Versailles.

Designed at the start of the 19th century, the English Garden is found between the Chantilly Castle and the Grand Stables. Look for the Temple Of Venus and the Island of Love. How romantic.

5. The Grand Stables At The Domaine de Chantilly

This is more than just a horse stable. Think grand. Think architectural masterpiece. Les Grandes Ecuries also houses the Museum of the Horse and an Equestrian troop that puts on shows (included in the entrance ticket.)

Nearby, the Hippodrome de Chantilly, or the Chantilly Racecourse, has been around since the 1840s. The stands are listed as historical monuments. That in itself makes me want to watch one of the almost 200 races that take place each year. The Hippodrome de Chantilly hosts two internationally renowned horse races each year – the Prix de Diane Longines and the Prix du Jockey Club.

Pro Travel Tip : If all this talk of horses gets you excited, you may want to book a horse trail ride through the Chantilly Forest or a sample ride around the racecourse.

6. Near The Domaine de Chantilly

A twenty-minute drive (or a one hour and ten-minute walk), from the Château de Chantilly, is the Château de la Reine Blanche, the Castle of the White Queen.

This small castle from the 18th century is a charmer sitting tucked away in the forest on the edge of the Loges Pond. It was used as a hunting lodge but my imagination goes straight to fairytales and romance!

Here in the Chantilly Forest are three ponds that were created by the monks of the Abbey of Chaalis. You can read about the Domaine de Chaalis in my Day Trips from Paris article.

Sit at the restaurant, L’Etang d’Art, and admire the small castle. If walls could tell stories! The restaurant is open daily from April 1 to November 1 and Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays the rest of the year.

Events At The Château de Chantilly

Journées des plantes: friday, may 17, 2024 through sunday, may 19,2024.

With over 200 exhibitors from all over Europe, plant lovers will be in heaven. This weekend Plant Show at the Château de Chantilly is dedicated to buying, sharing, learning about, and celebrating plants.

I hope you enjoy your visit to the Domaine de Chantilly as much as I did. I find the Château de Chantilly such an enchanting setting, it’s listed in my article on the 45 most romantic places in Paris . Would you agree?

Until next time,

More Paris Info…

Get mixed up with the arrondissements of Paris? This guide to  the Paris arrondissements   will help you plan your best visit to the City of Light!

If you love hidden gems , here are 25 to discover in Paris.

  This post on Montmartre  leads you to the most popular sites as well as some lesser-known places in Montmartre.

Another of Paris’s most-loved areas is Saint-Germain des Prés. Here are my best tips on things to do in  Saint-Germain des Prés.

Le Marais  is one of the best areas of Paris to flâner. Here are  23 tops things to do in le Marais .

La Butte aux Cailles,  tucked away in the 13th arrondissement, is another place in Paris that has retained its village-like charm.  My article on La Butte aux Cailles  will lead you to discover some of the area and its visually enticing street art.

Canal Saint-Martin  is another place full of small restaurants, boutiques and plenty of character. Stroll the bridges of the canal under the chestnut trees and feel like a true Parisian. All the details on this “bobo” district are in  this article on Canal Saint-Martin .

Here are all the things to do  on Ile Saint-Louis , one of the oldest villages in Paris.

Don’t forget that the  7th arrondissement   has lots to see and do once you have seen the Eiffel Tower.

And the 11th arrondissment of Paris ? Authentic and full of great restaurants and shopping (like a local).

Other Paris and France Travel Tips:

Travelling to  Paris alone ?  This article on navigating Paris alone  is full of tips and tricks for the solo traveller.

This page has  all my articles on Paris   that will help you plan out your trip, including day trips from Paris. I hope you  subscribed to my newsletter  to get my free download –  An Amazing 2-day Itinerary in Paris.

If you are going further afield in  France , make sure to check out  my page on France.

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Alison Browne

Creator and Founder of Dreamer at Heart Alison, a Francophile from a young age, is following a long-held dream and has been living in Paris since 2020. Her passion for uncovering Paris and discovering the regions of France has resulted in an expertise about France that she loves to share in her articles. Also a solo traveller, Alison shares her experiences of solo travel to many corners of the world. Alison helps over 65000 readers a month plan their trips.

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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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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.