Chateau de Chambord is the quintessential monument to the flamboyance of French kings; all the grandeur with a dash of delightful whimsy. A dreamscape of turrets and towers rises from the terrace, resulting in its trademark silhouette that has often been likened to the skyline of a city. François I built it to serve as his hunting lodge and it is surrounded by forests that serve as a perfect lead-in to the jaw-dropping first glimpse. The Castle is a perfect example of sixteenth-century Renaissance architecture. When inside, don't miss the famed double helix stairways, rumored to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Explore its vaulted hallways, 400 palatial rooms, decorative staircases, and end your visit by taking a walk in the sprawling gardens. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Chateau de Chambord by using our Chambord trip itinerary site.
Tours to Chateau de Chambord
Chateau de Chambord reviews
-
Despite the ongoing restoration this grand renaissance pile is very impressive. The interiors are less impressive than the highly restored Blois, which also benefits from a large number of fine...
Despite the ongoing restoration this grand renaissance pile is very impressive. The interiors are less impressive than the highly restored Blois, which also benefits from a large number of fine... more »
-
One of the largest and grandest of the Loire chateau, we very much enjoyed seeing this for the 2nd time after a 26 year gap. Based on the enormous cost of keeping this place looking good and...
One of the largest and grandest of the Loire chateau, we very much enjoyed seeing this for the 2nd time after a 26 year gap. Based on the enormous cost of keeping this place looking good and... more »
-
This is the best castle I've seen in the Loire valley. It is huge and the architecture is very complex, like its spiraling main staircase. There is a lot to see, and the castle also has some art displays. It's actually a big site with a garden, church, village, etc. The only downside is that the parking lot is €6 (other castles don't make visitors pay parking) but given the size of the site, I suppose it goes toward its preservation. A must see!
-
Impressive castle set on huge grounds. We found the artwork exhibits the most interesting aspects, plus the double helix staircase at center of building. Very crowded, next time we would try to be there early when they open.
Plan your trip to Chambord
best routes and schedules
Popular things to do in Chambord
Trips in Chateau de Chambord by other users
26 days in Paris
SEE PLAN
Paris
15 days in Paris
SEE PLAN
Sainte-Chapelle
Louvre Museum
Île de la Cité
11 days in Paris, Dordogne & Loire Valley
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Paris
Sarlat-la-Caneda
Amboise
20 days in France
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Bayeux
Mont-Saint-Michel
Etretat
20 days in Western Europe
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Geneva
Paris
Amboise
15 days in France & Spain
SEE PLAN
Bayeux
Amboise
Alcudia