Free walking tours in Chantilly and what to see

Must-sees

Chantilly is in the Oise department, about twenty minutes by train from Paris, and its big attraction is the château estate. Inside is the Musée Condé, the collection assembled by the Duke of Aumale and bequeathed on condition that it be kept exactly as he left it. You will see old master paintings by Raphael, Botticelli, Poussin and Ingres hung as in the 19th century, a cabinet of portraits of the Renaissance court and a wood-panelled library full of manuscripts and old books.

A few steps away stand the Great Stables, built in the 18th century for the Princes of Condé, with the Horse Museum and equestrian shows. The park combines parterres and ponds attributed to Le Nôtre with an Anglo-Chinese garden hiding the Hameau, a group of rustic cottages, and a more romantic English garden. All around stretches the Chantilly forest, with paths for walking or cycling, and next to the stables is the racecourse. Don’t leave without trying Chantilly cream.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Chantilly. What Civitatis offers is a ticket for the château, to explore the Musée Condé, the salons and the library at your own pace. Many travellers come on a day trip from Paris, the easiest way if you don’t want to sort out the transport yourself.

How long to spend

Allow two or three hours for the château and the Musée Condé. If you add the Great Stables, the Horse Museum and a walk in the park, you will need the whole day, so arrive early. With a second day you can explore the forest, visit the town of Senlis, a few kilometres away, or head to Royaumont Abbey.

Where to stay

Most people visit Chantilly from Paris, but staying here lets you enjoy the park at leisure and walk in the forest once the groups have left. There are hotels and guesthouses in the centre, near the château and the station, and quieter places on the edge of the forest. Senlis, very close by, is another good base with an old town.