Château de Chambord
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3 things to know
before getting ready for adventureWe’ve uncovered 3 secrets about Chambord 😎
Ready to conquer Chambord? Among all the French castles, the Château de Chambord is the only one that has remained unchanged since it was built! We did some digging — and uncovered 3 fascinating secrets about the Château de Chambord 👇🏼
Castle or theater? One thing’s for sure: Chambord is full of surprises. In 1670, Molière debuted his famous comedy Le Bourgeois gentilhomme here — performed for none other than King Louis XIV and his royal court!
The Château de Chambord was heavily inspired by Leonardo da Vinci — yes, that Renaissance genius! He’s credited with the design of the iconic double-helix staircase. Look up and take in the incredible details carved throughout the château — how many salamanders of King Francis I can you spot? 1, 2, 3… Keep your eyes open, they’re everywhere!
What not to miss during your visit?
Chambord Tour Lanterne Restaurée C Léonard De Serres 4Looking for the must-see places at the Château de Chambord? 🧐
We’ve heard you’re always up for an adventure… perfect timing — you’ve got a date with the 16th century! Nearly 60 rooms inside the Château de Chambord invite you on a journey back in time. So… What are you waiting for? Dive into the Château de Chambord’s unmissable highlights 👇🏼
The double-helix staircase by Leonardo da Vinci is designed in a way that was unheard of in its day as it allows two people to ascend and descend without ever crossing paths. A touch of magic follows every step you take.
The Château’s vast collection of artworks is truly museum-worthy!
Step into the oratory of King Francis I and prepare for a treasure hunt! Your mission: Spot the fish, sirens, birds and baby salamanders hidden in the intricate decor? 👀
The hunting room: As you enter the hunting room, mounted deer and other taxidermy animals greet you in a setting steeped in history. Once a royal bedroom during the reign of Louis XIV, it later transformed into an aunction hall during the Roaring Twenties. Over the centuries, this room has served many purposes!
The Eschansonnerie of Her Royal Highness: Patience is key if you hope to enter this mysterious room… And once you’ve discovered the secret to unlocking its door, open your eyes wide! The walls are adorned with drawings created by the servants of Gaston d’Orléans’ wife. 🎨
French and English gardens: What’s a château without its gardens? Chambord, ever bold and whimsical, decided one wasn’t enough, so it has two! On one side, the perfectly trimmed French gardens; on the other, the wilder charm of the English park. Together with family, head to the shade of the English garden’s tree, which is the perfect spot for a peaceful snack break.
1001 kings..? Will you be next? 👑
Ever wondered who the lucky people were to call the Château de Chambord home? Sorry to disappoint any medieval enthusiasts or aspiring knights, but most of Chambord’s notable residents were kings or members of the royal elite. Here are some of the most prominent names…🤴🏼
Francis I, King of France
Gaston d’Orléans, Duke of Orléans
Louis XIV, King of France
Stanislas Leszczynski, King of Poland
Maurice de Saxe, Count of Saxony
Henri d’Artois, Duke of Bordeaux and Count of Chambord
French or English style? Floral face-off in the gardens ⛲️
No need to speak French to enjoy the Château de Chambord, we promise! And this, even if you choose to explore the French garden! So channel your inner Flower Power and celebrate the château’s dual garden heritage. 3, 2, 1, let’s go 👇🏼
The French gardens: Did you know Chambord’s French gardens had vanished for years due to lack of maintenance? In 2017, they were fully restored as part of a major renovation!
The English garden: More wilder than French gardens, the English garden is the place to be when the sun’s out! You’ll find lush greenery, shady groves and towering trees, the perfect place for a breath of fresh air.
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Frequently asked questions about the Château de Chambord
- Who built the Château de Chambord?
The château was commissioned by Francis I in 1519. It wasn’t designed as a royal residence, but rather as a grand symbol of power and artistry.
- How many rooms are there in the Château de Chambord?
There are over 400 rooms in the Château de Chambord! Only about 60 are open to the public during your visit.
- Why is Leonardo da Vinci important to the Château de Chambord?
Leonardo da Vinci played a key role in inspiring Chambord’s design. Indeed, it is believed that his visionary ideas influenced the château’s architecture. The double-helix staircase may have been conceived by the Italian genius himself!
- What are the secrets rooms of the Château de Chambord?
The two secret rooms of the Château de Chambord are the trompe-l’oeil study and l’eschansonnerie of Her Royal Highness.
- What is the ticket price for visiting the Château de Chambord?
The full-price ticket for visiting the château and its gardens is €19. A reduced price of €16.50 is available for eligible visitors with valid documentation. EU citizens aged 18 to 25 can get in for free with proof of ID.
- Are guided tours available at the Château de Chambord?
Absolutely! Guided tours are available by reservation. You can also rent a histopad during your visit at the château.
- Is the Château de Chambord adapted for families?
Yes, the Château de Chambord is perfect for families. During school holidays and long weekends, fun and interactive tours for children are regularly offered.
- How to get to the Château de Chambord?
From Paris, the Château de Chambord is only a 2-hour drive away. No car? PARISCityVISION offers shuttle services departing directly from Paris. Coming by train? Take a train to Blois-Chambord station, then hop on a Rémi-41 shuttle bus that takes you straight to the château.
- What are the opening hours of the Château de Chambord?
• April to October: Open everyday from 9am to 6pm (5pm on weekends and public holidays)
• November to March: Monday to saturday from 9am to 5pm (except on public holidays)
