A masterpiece located in the Oise region, the Château de Chantilly captivates visitors with its collections, its exceptional gardens, and its timeless setting. Just a 25-minute train ride from Paris, this château is one of France’s most beautiful heritage sites. It was recently voted France’s Favorite Monument for 2025, a testament to its exceptional charm.
The French People’s Favorite Monument is accessible in 25 minutes from Paris
Built between the 16th and 19th centuries, it owes its current appearance to the Duke of Aumale, one of the great collectors of his time. He transformed it into a place dedicated to art and cultural transmission by bequeathing the estate and its collections to the Institut de France. The interior of the château houses the Musée Condé, a true national treasure. It boasts the second-largest collection of old master paintings in France, after the Louvre. Visitors can admire works by Raphael, Poussin, Ingres, Watteau, and Delacroix. The museum also possesses one of the country’s richest collections of ancient manuscripts, with over 1,500 items.
No visit to Chantilly is complete without spending time in its gardens, a masterpiece by André Le Nôtre, the landscape architect of Versailles. Spanning 115 hectares, the grounds feature majestic French-style parterres, reflecting pools, fountains, and spectacular vistas. The park also features an English garden and a picturesque hamlet, which inspired Marie Antoinette at Versailles. An ideal stroll in spring or summer, but equally splendid in autumn with its flamboyant colors.
Opposite the château, the Grandes Écuries impress with their size and elegance. Built in the 18th century, they now house the Horse Museum and regularly host equestrian shows renowned for their artistic quality. A must-see for young and old alike. In addition to its temporary exhibitions and guided tours, Chantilly is also famous for its culinary specialty: Chantilly cream, made in-house and served at the Hameau restaurant or the château’s tea room. A gourmet stop that pleasantly extends the visit.
With its collections worthy of a national museum, its French gardens, and its monumental stables, the Château de Chantilly offers the perfect day trip from Paris. It’s the kind of visit where you take your time, whether to admire the paintings, stroll through the park, or simply soak up the unique atmosphere of this place steeped in history!
📍Location: Château de Chantilly – Rue du Connétable, 60500
📆 Hours: Open daily except Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
🚇 Access: By TER train from Paris Gare du Nord (25-minute ride)