Did you know that Château de Chambord’s iconic double-helix staircase was allegedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself? As the largest castle in France’s Loire Valley, this architectural masterpiece welcomes over 2 million visitors annually! I’ve explored this remarkable château multiple times, and let me tell you – nothing quite prepares you for that first glimpse of its fairy-tale silhouette rising above the French countryside. Both Louis XIV and Louis XV (very important kings in the history of France) lived here for short periods of time. Some even argue that King Louis XIV was actually jelous of this Castle and wanted to build one even more impressive – Versailles. Can you imagine? The king of the sun was impressed by Chambord! So I am sure that whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast (like me), or simply seeking to experience the grandeur of French Renaissance, you will love Chambord, as it promises an unforgettable journey through time.
History and Architecture of Château de Chambord
Even though this is the largest castle on the Loire Valley, and the most known, it was originally built as a hunting lodge for Francis I. Can you imagine? 10 000 m2 (440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 84 staircases) for a hunting lodge!! It was built between 1519-1547, it took 28 years to complete. Even though it was the work of its lifetime, Francis the First has slept only 1 time in it. (Talking about price per value…per night!!). The castke is built in a Renaissance style and is a good example of the French and Italian style of grouping rooms.
King Francis I emblem ornates the walls and can be seen kind of everywhere! (image source)
The legend (and the French who are very proud to believe it) says that Leonardo da Vinci had an active influence on it. The most important and representative feature is the double-helix central staircase. Now, if you ask my french husband and all of our french friends, they would swear this was design by Da Vinci! Also, if you are like me, you might wonder what is a double-helix staircase? Imagine this: two persons can go up or down at the same time without ever crossing? Why? Because flirting was fun (it still is) at that time and a priority! It was built like this just for fun!
Back in the day, the château was basically a giant empty shell! Every time Francis and his crew came for a hunting trip, they had to pack everything—from furniture and wall hangings to forks and knives. To make things easier, they even had “DIY” furniture that could be taken apart and hauled around. When King Francis passed away in 1547, the château took a long nap, sitting untouched for almost a century. This is one of the reasons why today there isn’t a lot of furniture dating from that time, on site. The other reason is the French Revolution. During that period, a lot of castles lost their furniture. In 1792, the Revolutionary government ordered the sale of the furnishings; the wall panellings were removed and even floors were taken up and sold for the value of their timber, and the panelled doors were burned to keep the rooms warm during the sales; the empty château was left abandoned until Napoleon Bonaparte gave it to his subordinate, Louis Alexandre Berthier. (wikipedia info)
What to See Inside Chambord Castle
• Royal apartments and period furnishings
These are the rooms that were refurnished and give an actual chateau experience. They contrast the other spaces with their colors and warmth. The rest of the castle feels cold, amost too empty, but these rooms help recovering from that first impression. Don’t hesitate to use your Pad here (the one you get at the entrance), as it shows detailed information about every object in the room and completes the reality with 3D images that make the place come to life. Some might say that Chambord is fast to visit, but if you take your time and take in all the information available, you could spend a whole day inside.
• The famous double-helix spiral staircase experience
Ofcourse the must see of the castle is the famous staircase! Don’t hesitate to test it if you are visiting with a friend. Take the stair separately, try to have conversations within it, and imagine who might have tried just the same thing 500 years ago!
• Rooftop terrace and distinctive architecture
My favourite part of the chateaux, and I think any photography enthusiast would agree, are the rooftop terraces ( yes, there is more than one). First, you have an incredible view over all the domain, the French garden, the lake. It kind of reminds me of the Versailles infinite perspective to the Bassin d’Apollon. Second, the original design of terraces feel like you just entered another small castle, or a village of towers on top of the initial castle. The scale of architecture changes, it gets more relatable, details can be observed from close and there are a lot of impressive details! During one of our tours, my dad asked me if I knew what was the meaning of the geometric shapes that we can see in black everywhere? It certainly is something. I had no ideea at that time, but I researched. What is your guess? Let me know in the comments ! ( you can check the answer at the end of the post but no cheating, write an honest answer in the comments!)
(that’s my dearest father)
• Chapel and ornate decorations
As almost all the castles, Chambord has it’s own chapel. It is incredible. One moment you are walking the castles corridors and the next monent you are in an open space with an extremly calming vibe. From the outside you would never imagine that the chapel exists!
The passage that goes to the chapel is also the hunting tromphee corridors, it features ((( horns captured during the many years of hunting that took place on the domain. Even today, hunting is a big part of the place, even though it’s controversial. My vegan friend was shocked I loved this place. Yes, it is cruel, but I can not help not loving the light, the huge windows, the perspective of this corridor. Yet again it feels like it were a completely different place from the rest, and I love it. Do not miss it!
Best photo spots and viewing points (With map + click on the links for exact google map location)
to create this map with indications, I used the base plan from this source
- in front of the main entrance
- Far behind the main entrance
- At the horse stables
- In front of the world-known central staircase desgined by Leonardo Da Vinci (inside the castle)
- On te rooftop terraces
- In the hunting gallery (second floor inside the castle)
- On the grass at the left side of the castle (right side if you are arriving from the shops)
- On the terrace of the Relais de Chambord restaurant
- In the french garden
- On the river, from a boat !
- “Behind” the Castle, on the far end (you have to pass the bridge). This might seem as the back of the castle but it was actually the main façade, it is very impressive !
Chambord is more than a simple castle visit. Activities not to miss!
There is a large range of leisure activities available at Chambord. You can easily spend 1,2 even 3 days on site and have a great time. Leisure activities (electric carts, boats, bicycles) are available from the dock from March 30 to November 3. The dock is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. (last cart rental at 6:00 p.m.)
Boat ride
Discover the castle and its surroundings in a different way by electric boat or rowing boat. This offers an incredible view point with no crowds !
Prices
Electric boat (1 to 5 passengers) / 30-minute package for 22 euro
Electric car ride
To be able to rent a car you need to be at least 21 and have a valid driver’s license. A car is for 4 people maximum. It’s important to note that electric carts are not allowed in the formal French gardens.
Prices go like this:
€29 for 45 minutes
€25 for 45 minutes (for Chambord Passport holders)
Meeting point: Ticket office and departure from the dock (access map available below)
Bike ride
Whether you’re with family or a partner, a 15 km cycling route through the public area lets you explore the forest’s treasures, including flora and wildlife. You can even reach nearby sites and castles while enjoying the beauty of the Loire if you are sporty enough. Don’t worry for the equipment, everything is provided. Helmets are free and mandatory for children under 12.
List of prices:
Rosalie (2 adults + 2 kids under 12): €20/hour
Rosalie trailer (2 adults): €7/hour
Adult bike: €7/hour or €18 for 4 hours
Child bike: €4/hour or €10 for 4 hours
Horse and birds show
From March 30 to September 29, 2024, and from October 19 to November 3, 2024.
Duration: 45 minutes
Showtimes:
Until September 29: Weekdays at 11:45 a.m., weekends at 11:45 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (No show on Mondays)
October 19 to November 3: Shows at 11:45 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Pricing:
€16 per adult, €12.50 for ages 5-17 and for people with disabilities.
Combined ticket for castle + show: €27.50.
Chambord Passport: Discounted at €31 (regular price €38.50).
Garden visit
You can visit the gardens by yourself, the entrance is free of charge!
Domain visit
Looking for an unforgettable experience deep in nature? This off-road guided tour takes you right into the heart of Europe’s largest private nature reserve, where you’ll venture into areas typically closed off to the public. Along the way, you’ll learn fascinating insights about the forest, the management of wildlife, and the delicate balance between flora and fauna.
One of the highlights? A stop at the trophy room, where you’ll get to see how the antlers of a single stag change and grow over time. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature, and you might even spot majestic deer, elegant does, or wild boar roaming freely in this pristine environment.
Tour Details:
Duration: 1h30
Minimum age: 3 years old
Max capacity per vehicle: 8 people
Sorry, no dogs allowed on this tour
Pricing:
Adults (18+): €20
Children (ages 3-17): €15(English summary sheets available)
This is a rare chance to experience nature at its finest, so grab your camera and get ready for an incredible adventure!
Experience the Majestic Red Deer Rut: A Unique Listening Adventure
Ever wanted to witness one of nature’s most powerful sounds? Join a small group for a special listening session of the red deer rut from the observation tower at La Guillonnière Farm, located in a restricted area of the reserve.
This seasonal experience, available from mid-September to mid-October, offers the perfect opportunity to hear the impressive bellow of red deer stags as they call during mating season. It’s a truly captivating and wild sound, echoing through the forest.
Event Details:
Duration: About 3 hours
Max group size: 16 people
Minimum age: 12 years old
Pricing:
Morning session (6:00-7:00 AM): €35 per person
Evening session (6:00-7:00 PM): €45 per person
Reservations:Booking opens in early June and is required due to limited availability.
For more info or to reserve your spot, contact: +33 (0)2 54 50 40 00 [email protected]
Kids activities
Chambord Castle offers a range of activities designed to engage and entertain children while immersing them in the history and beauty of the estate. One of the most popular experiences is the “Enquête au Château” (Treasure Hunt), where young adventurers follow clues through the grand halls and gardens to uncover the castle’s secrets. This fun and educational activity costs €5 per child and is a favorite among families. Another highlight is the horse and bird of prey show, where kids can enjoy stunning displays of falconry and equestrian performances for €15 per child. For those who love nature, the Discovery Walks around the estate allow children to explore the diverse wildlife with their parents, offering a more laid-back experience. The treasure hunt is by far the most booked, as it’s an interactive way for kids to learn about the castle’s history while having fun!
You can check the official flyer here, with a complete map !
Essential Visitor Information for 2024-2025
• Opening hours and best times to visit
Open every day of the year except 1 January, 21 March and 25 December 2024.
January 2 to January 7: 9am – 6pm (low season)
January 8 to March 29: 9am – 5pm (low season)
March 30 to October 27: 9am – 6pm (High season)
October 28 to December 31: 9am – 5pm (Christmas holidays) Last access ½ hour before the castle closes Closing of the formal gardens 30 minutes before the castle closes.
• Admission, Ticket prices and booking options
To avoid crowds you can purchase your ticket on this website. This way you will be sure of the availability of the date and that there is no important event planned during the same period. For example you would want to avoid visiting the Castle of Chambord if there is a concert planned at night as the visiting hours will be drastically reduced and the crowds huge!! Make sure to buy your tickets in advance, especially if you are visiting during summer.
If you plan to spend more time on site (which I completely recommend!!) then the best thing to do is to take the Chambord Passport. This combines the entrance tickets with the most important activities and gives you reductions for the leisure rentals (boat, car, bike).
The “Chambord Passport” ticket includes:
Entry to the château and gardens
A ticket for the horse and bird of prey show with its activities (dated for the day and time selected by the client)
Rental of an HistoPad for ages 5+
A discount voucher for leisure activities
45-minute electric cart rental: €25 (instead of €29)
1-hour adult bike rental: €5 (instead of €7)
30-minute boat rental for 1-5 people: €19 (instead of €22)
• Guided tour recommendations
While planning your trip to the Loire Valley, consider incorporating guided tours that delve into the history and architectural significance of Chambord Castle. These tours often include insights into the castle’s artistic features and its role in royal history, making your visit educational as well as visually stunning.
• Accessibility information
The entrance is free for persons with disabilities and their company. Walking canes and wheelchairs are available for loan at the château’s reception (subject to availability).
Dogs accompanying people with disabilities are allowed inside the monument.It‘s great to see that even four-legged companions can join in exploring history, making the experience more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone! These loyal service dogs provide such valuable support, and it’s wonderful they can be part of the adventure.
Accessible areas for people with reduced mobility: Reception / Ticket office / Ground floor of the keep and its rooms Audiovisual room / French formal gardens.
• Parking and transportation tips
Parking P0 (600 meters from the castle):
Cars, motorcycles: €6/day (accessible only to vehicles under 2.10 m height).
Reserved spaces for people with disabilities.
Parking P1:
Minibus: €11/day
Coach: €100/day
Free: If visitors present a parking ticket and purchase or collect at least 7 entry tickets for coaches or 2 entry tickets for minibuses (proof required from Atout France).
Parking P2 (light vehicles):
€5/day (for vehicles under 2.10 m height).
Parking P2 (motorhomes and vehicles over 2.10 m height):
€11/24h.
• Seasonal events and special exhibitions
There are many seasonal events and special exhibitions at Chambord Castle. You can stumble upon an event almost at all date. You can check the official website to see everything they are planning.
As my favourite time of the year is Christmas, I’ll give you more info about it ! To immerse visitors in the festive spirit, Chambord offers a range of Christmas events and activities from November 30, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Families can explore the château amidst traditional and contemporary holiday decorations, enjoy costumed performances, and watch a new show titled “The Prince and the Hunchback” from December 21 to January 4. Highlights also include a themed guided tour about the origins of Christmas traditions and the magical sounds of Chambord’s newly restored carillon ringing out festive melodies.
It’s a perfect way to experience Chambord during the holiday season! Check the exact timetable here.
Planning Your Loire Valley Castle Route (3 options!)
• Best times to visit Chambord
Any time of the year. Avoid mid-day during summer.
• Combining Chambord with other Loire castles
There are a lot of castles nearby, the most remarkable ones being Amboise and Chaumont. You can read more about my recommendations for 1,2,3 days in the area further in the article. If you’d like to discover more Loire Valley castles that are less known,I have written an article on the topic, with photos and recommendations for each option! You can check it out here ! Don’t forget to explore the charming nearby villages where you can savor local wines and culinary delights that the region is famous for!
• How to get to Chambord Castle from Paris
The journey to Chambord Castle from major cities like Paris can be easily made by train or car, making it an accessible destination for travelers. The picturesque landscapes of the Loire Valley, dotted with vineyards and other châteaux, enhance the experience, providing a scenic backdrop that complements the beauty of Chambord.
Important Note: There is no direct train to Chambord Castle. You’ll need to:
Take a train from Paris to Blois-Chambord station
Then take a shuttle or taxi to the castle
image source
Here’s the step-by-step process:
From Paris to Blois:
Depart from Paris Austerlitz station
Take a direct train to Blois-Chambord station (about 1.5 hours)
Trains run multiple times daily
Book tickets through SNCF (French Railways) website or app
From Blois to Chambord Castle:
Option 1: Navette Châteaux (Shuttle bus)
Available during tourist season (April-November) – ticket price 3.20 euros
Departs from Blois station
Journey takes about 30 minutes
Option 2: Taxi – this can go from 35 euros to 70 euros or more.
Available year-round
Takes about 20 minutes
Can be called from the station
More expensive but more flexible
Pro Tips:
Book train tickets in advance for better prices. You can check them on the official SNCF website or use this tool from Trip.com that gets you an easy view on all the options available with price comparison.
Check shuttle schedules as they vary by season
Consider combining with other Loire Valley castles
Last shuttle returns well before the last train to Paris
Option 3 : Organized Tour
There is also the option of taking a Loire Valley daytrip tour from Paris, which will considerably reduce the transportation time and get rid of any stress on your part. There are some good options out there, like this one from Tiquets because it combines the two best castles in one while taking care of all the logistics. (What I like about this website is that it allows you to cancel the reservations if needed, so you can easily book in advance.)
Another really good one and packed with 3 Loire Valley landmarks (the Castles of Chambord, Chenonceau and a third one on choice) on a day for a really good price (cheaper than to buy the tickets separately) is this one here.
• Recommended itineraries (1-day, 2-day, 3 day)
1 day at Chambord Castle
If you rented a car you have the choice of spending the entire day at Chambord or splitting the time with another castle or village.
Visit the castle in the morning and do the activities in the afternoon. Don’t miss the horse show at the stables! (More information here). After the show, rent a boat and slide around the castle, this will allow you to take incredible photos.
Be sure to eat between 12h and 14h at noon. This is when the french people eat, which means that all the good restaurants only serve during this time. This also means that getting a table during this period can be tricky, make sure to be there at 12h. Restaurants at Chambord do not take reservations, so make sure to make a mental reminder to be on time.
2 days at Chambord Castle
Two days give you plenty of time to either base within the Chambord domain an take advantage of the activities ( this is the definition of slow travelling and what a perfect place to try it this is!!!). Or, you could visit Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire, a charming village close to the castle, Blois, a small pittoresque town or add in another castle (Blois, Amboise, Clos-Lucé or Cheverny).
3 days at Chambord Castle
3 days would allow you enough time to fully take in the royal air of the Loire Valley. I would definitely check out multiple castles. Amboise, Chennonceau and Chaumont-sur-Loire are a must ! Don’t skip them! Just make sure to check the prices, as multiple tickets can get expensive.
Pro tip: To get a price discount you should deffinetly buy the tickets in advance and try to find an offer that combines multiple castles. A really good one is this, as it gets you three entrances for the prices of two. Make sure to check it out here.
Where to stay near Chambord
Relais de Chambord. The one that offers picture perfect castle views! Located just 50 meters from the Château de Chambord, the only hotel in Chambord has undergone a complete renovation. This 4-star hotel offers 55 rooms and suites, 15 of which provide breathtaking views of the château and its French gardens, while 18 others overlook the Cosson River. Check it out here.
Chateau des Grotteaux If you fancy sleeping in a castle with a swimming pool! A great way to indulge while visiting this region and actually feel royal.
Le Prieuré de Boulogne I love this because it feels so cosy and intimate. It captures the essence of the region, from the stone walls, to the farm doors, to the hospitality and the tranquility. A really nice option.
Logis Hôtel du Cygne Do you know the stories by the Grimm Brothers? I grew up with them! Well, this place feels like you opened a book and fell within. Such a peaceful place! It has a pool and the breakfast is exceptional.
La Taille de Biou A “chambre de hôtes” in a french style that would surely impact your stay. This one is a dream stay and is actually the least expensive ! I love it !
Local restaurants and wine tasting opportunities. Where to eat at Chambord?
There are a lot of picnic places on site, if you whish for.
The most known restaurant is of course the one from the Relais de Chambord hotel, which offers gastronomy dining with the castle on the background.
There are many more other restaurants on site. The one I would recommend is La Cave des Rois, which offers good quality for reasonable prices. Just make sure to go early, as they don’t take reservations! French people eat in between 12h-14h. Go right at 12h and you should be fine !
An example of what we paid there during the high season, as a 7 persons group (adults)
Tips for the Perfect Chambord Visit
• Best times for photography
Capture some memorable photographs against the majestic backdrop of the castle, especially during the golden hour as the sun sets – it’s an experience that encapsulates the romance of the Loire Valley and the majesty of Chambord Castle.
• How to avoid crowds
Visit during the low seasons or mid season (avoid the months of July and August).
If you are visiting during summer, make sure to buy tickets in advance! This is a good thing to do either way as you will make sure that your visiting day doesn’t match a major event (like a music concert).
• What to bring
Take a picnic with you if you prefer! Other than that, here are some ideas:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Exploring the Château and its expansive gardens means lots of walking! Make sure you’re comfortable all day long. My husband and I have been using Allbirds for 5 year now! Our first pair lasted for 4 years, so I can not recommend them enough ! I have several colors for summer and winter. You can check them here.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated without buying plastic bottles at the site. This eco-friendly option keeps your water cool during the warm months. Top-rated option: Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle on Amazon.
Travel Backpack
Keep your hands free while exploring Chambord’s grandeur, and carry your essentials in style. Top-rated option: Matein Travel Backpack on Amazon.
Portable Phone Charger
Capture every moment without worrying about your battery dying—essential for photo enthusiasts! Top-rated option: Anker PowerCore Portable Charger on Amazon.
Sunscreen or Hat
Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, you’ll want protection for outdoor exploration in the open gardens. Top-rated option: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen on Amazon.
Before ending, here is the answer to the geometric forms question :
The geometric forms on the façades of Chambord Castle, especially visible on the terraces in black, are likely inspired by Renaissance architectural design principles. These shapes, including intricate patterns and symbols, reflect the influence of both Italian Renaissance aesthetics and French Gothic tradition. The decorative elements serve not only as ornamental features but also as symbolic representations, showcasing the castle’s harmony between art, architecture, and nature. Additionally, they may align with the castle’s overall symmetrical layout, reinforcing the grandeur and mathematical precision of its design.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to Château de Chambord for its architectural brilliance, rich history, or stunning surroundings, this Loire Valley masterpiece offers an experience that will exceed your expectations. From the innovative double-helix staircase to the sprawling gardens, every corner tells a story of French Renaissance grandeur. Plan your visit in 2024 to witness this architectural marvel firsthand – and don’t forget your camera! Ready to step into the pages of French history? Your Loire Valley adventure awaits at starts at Chambord.
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