Chantilly is a fairy-tale château surrounded by water – and one of the great art museums of France. Just north of Paris, it combines a princely residence, a remarkable collection of paintings, huge stables and gardens designed by André Le Nôtre.
What to see
The Musée Condé
The Duke of Aumale, son of King Louis-Philippe, filled the château with paintings, drawings and rare books, and left it to the Institut de France on condition that nothing would change. Works by Raphael, Poussin, Ingres and Delacroix hang as he arranged them.
The Great Stables
The Grandes Écuries, built in the 18th century for the Princes of Condé, are a palace for horses. They house the Horse Museum, and equestrian shows are held here.
The gardens
Le Nôtre’s French gardens, the English garden and the Hamlet – which inspired Marie-Antoinette’s at Versailles – invite a long walk.
Getting there
Trains from Paris Gare du Nord reach Chantilly-Gouvieux in about 25 minutes; the château is a walk or a short bus ride away.
Tips
- Taste the crème Chantilly: the whipped cream takes its name from the estate.
- Check the show times at the Great Stables when you plan your day.
- Pair it with a walk in the forest or in the town of Chantilly.
Château de Chantilly FAQ
How long do you need at Chantilly?
Half a day for the château, stables and gardens.
Is Chantilly a good day trip from Paris?
Yes – it is close, easy by train and much less crowded than Versailles.
