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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Chantilly.
Chantilly – a charming oasis nestled in the heart of Northern Virginia.
Immerse yourself in the exquisite beauty of nature, indulge in a gastronomic feast, or revel in the rich history and culture of the region.
Your adventure in Chantilly awaits.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Chantilly:
1. Château de Chantilly
Château de Chantilly is a historic castle located in the town of Chantilly, France.
What to see or do: There is a lot of things to see and do in Château de Chantilly. You can admire the impressive architecture of the castle, explore the perfectly manicured gardens, and visit the art museum.
The art museum hosts one of the finest collections of antique paintings in France, with pieces by Raphael, Botticelli, and many others.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Great Stables, which is considered as one of the most significant buildings in Château de Chantilly, with its domed ceilings and impressive architecture, it is a must-see for any visitor.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit to the castle and gardens.
2. Musée Condé
The Musée Condé is an art museum located in the Château de Chantilly, a historic castle in northern France.
What to see or do: The museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts ranging from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
Visitors can admire works by famous artists such as Raphael, Botticelli, Delacroix, and Ingres, among others. The castle grounds also include a beautiful French formal garden and a large park with a canal.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the famous painting “The Three Graces” by Raphael, considered one of the greatest masterpieces in the collection.
Another must-see is the ornate library, housing over 1300 manuscripts and printed books from the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Guided tours are available in both English and French for a more in-depth understanding of the artwork and history of the castle.
The nearby town of Chantilly is known for its delicious cream and is definitely worth a visit.
3. Potager des Princes
Potager des Princes is a beautifully manicured garden located in Chantilly, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the garden’s various sections, including the vegetable patch, fruit arbor, and meticulously groomed flower beds. Additionally, there are several animal enclosures on-site, housing rabbits, goats, and exotic birds.
Don’t miss: The garden’s treehouse, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the entire estate, is a must-see.
Visitors should also keep an eye out for the garden’s seasonal events, including a pumpkin festival in the fall and a Christmas market in winter.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking to avoid crowds, plan to visit the garden during the week rather than on the weekend. Additionally, the garden’s cafe serves up delicious homemade food and is the perfect spot for a midday break.
4. Pavillon de Manse
Historical pavilion located in Chantilly, France.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture and design, stroll around the lush gardens and ponds, discover the stunning art collection accumulated by the Rothschild family.
Don’t miss: The intricate wood paneling in the dining room, the collection of rare porcelain, the impressive display of Flemish tapestries.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the pavilion and its owners. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of Chantilly’s landscape.
5. Hippodrome de Chantilly
Hippodrome de Chantilly is a prestigious horse racing venue located near the Château de Chantilly, about 50 km north of Paris.
What to see or do: Witness the exhilarating horse races and admire the stunning scenery surrounding the racetrack.
Don’t miss: Visit the famous equestrian museum – “Musée Vivant du Cheval” located on-site.
Insider travel tips: – Check the racing schedule before you go to ensure you catch your preferred race.
6. Parc de la Faisanderie
A stunning park located in the town of Chantilly, France, known for its beautiful landscape, wildlife, and historic buildings.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park’s lush forest paths and admire the scenic views of the nearby Château de Chantilly. Explore the various gardens, including an English-style garden and a rose garden.
Check out the park’s animal reserves, where you’ll find deer, deer, and other wildlife. Take a boat ride on the park’s lake, or rent a bike and cycle around the trails.
Don’t miss: The Musée du Cheval (Horse Museum), where you’ll discover the history and tradition of equestrianism in Chantilly. Also, visit the beautiful Petit Château, a 19th-century mansion located on the park grounds.
Insider travel tips: Plan ahead and bring a picnic to enjoy on the park’s grassy lawns.
If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to check the park’s event calendar, as it frequently hosts outdoor concerts and festivals.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as the park has several miles of walking trails.
7. La Maison de Sylvie
A charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Chantilly, just 30 minutes outside of Paris.
What to see or do: Enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery, explore the historic town of Chantilly, visit the Chateau de Chantilly and its stunning gardens, take a horseback ride through the forest, and indulge in some delicious French cuisine.
Don’t miss: The decadent breakfast served every morning, complete with fresh bread, pastries, and homemade jams. Also, be sure to check out the cozy reading nook and the quaint garden in the back.
Insider travel tips: Book early to guarantee a room, especially during peak travel season. Don’t hesitate to ask for restaurant recommendations or insider tips from the friendly owners, Sylvie and Francois.
Plus, if you’re traveling with children, they’ll love the nearby Parc Asterix amusement park.
8. Église Notre-Dame de Chantilly
A stunning Gothic-style church located in the heart of Chantilly, France.
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive architecture of the building, including the intricate stained glass windows and soaring vaulted ceilings. Take in the peaceful ambiance and get a glimpse of the religious history of the town.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive pipe organ, which dates back to the 18th century, as well as the Chapel of the Sacred Heart, which is located within the church.
Insider travel tips: If you visit during the summer months, keep an eye out for concerts and other cultural events that often take place within the church.
Additionally, be sure to take a stroll through the charming town of Chantilly, which is known for its picturesque streets and historic architecture.
9. Les Jardins d’Eau
Les Jardins d’Eau is a beautiful water garden located in the enchanting Chateau de Chantilly, just a short train ride from Paris.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the garden’s many water features, including fountains, streams, and waterfalls. The garden is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning water staircase, which features 14 cascading pools that are lit up at night. The garden also has an impressive collection of aquatic plants, including water lilies and lotus flowers.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and take advantage of the best lighting for photos.
10. Château de la Tour
A majestic castle located in Chantilly, a charming town in northern France.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive architecture of Château de la Tour, which dates back to the 19th century. Wander around the lush gardens and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding forest.
Take a guided tour of the castle’s interior to learn about its fascinating history and see the opulent furnishings and decor.
Don’t miss: The equestrian show held daily in the castle’s arena. Watch as talented riders and their horses perform impressive stunts and beautifully choreographed routines.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit the Musée du Cheval, located on the grounds of the castle. This unique museum boasts an impressive collection of equestrian art and artifacts, including antique carriages and rare saddles.
And for a memorable dining experience, make a reservation at Les Jardins d’Épicure, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on the castle grounds.
11. La Galerie de Lithographie
An art gallery in the charming town of Chantilly, France, filled with lithographs from the 19th and 20th centuries.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive collection of lithographs, which includes works by famous artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, and Miró. The gallery also features lesser-known artists and rare pieces, making it a treasure trove for art enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to purchase a lithograph as a souvenir of your visit to Chantilly.
Insider travel tips: – The gallery is located within walking distance of the Chateau de Chantilly, making it a great addition to a day trip to the area.
12. Musée du Cheval
Musée du Cheval is a museum dedicated to the equestrian arts and horse racing in the heart of Chantilly, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and exhibits showcasing the history of horses and their roles in European society, as well as contemporary works of art featuring these majestic animals.
There are also interactive displays, special exhibitions, and live demonstrations of equestrian skills.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the daily horse show featuring trained horses and riders displaying their prowess in various disciplines, such as dressage and jumping.
The museum also has a stunning collection of antique carriages and coaches.
Insider travel tips: – Try to time your visit with the horse races happening at the nearby Hippodrome de Chantilly for an immersive horse-themed day out.
13. Le Prieuré Saint-Pierre
Le Prieuré Saint-Pierre is a beautifully restored priory located in the charming town of Chantilly, just outside of Paris.
What to see or do: Visitors to Le Prieuré Saint-Pierre can enjoy exploring the exquisite priory and its surrounding gardens.
The priory is home to an impressive collection of art and antiques, and visitors can spend hours admiring the intricate details that have been preserved throughout the centuries.
The gardens are also a sight to behold, with their meticulously manicured lawns, picturesque fountains, and fragrant flowers.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to Le Prieuré Saint-Pierre is seeing the 18th-century frescoes that adorn the priory’s chapel.
These intricate paintings are truly stunning and provide a fascinating glimpse into the religious and artistic culture of the time.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are many paths to explore around the priory and in the gardens.
14. Château de la Rongère
Château de la Rongère is a beautiful castle located in the charming town of Chantilly in France. Built in the 18th century, it is a historical monument with magnificent interiors and exteriors.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle and admire its impressive architecture and décor. The castle has beautiful gardens, stables, and a chapel, all of which are worth exploring.
You can also take part in various events and exhibitions that are held here throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the stables of the castle, which are home to the famous horses of the Chantilly Estate.
You can watch the horses training sessions and shows that are held here regularly.
Insider travel tips: If you are interested in horse racing, make sure to visit the Hippodrome de Chantilly, which is located close to the castle.
You can also try the famous Chantilly cream, which is a local specialty that you must not miss!
15. La Roseraie du Château de Gouvieux
Beautiful rose garden located in the historic Château de Gouvieux in Chantilly, France.
What to see or do: Admire the 3,000 blooming roses from over 250 different varieties. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden paths, surrounded by beautiful sculptural installations and stunning views of the Château.
Don’t miss: The rose tunnel, where you can walk through a tunnel completely covered in fragrant roses. Also, be sure to check out the rose-themed gift shop for some lovely souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: Visit in June when the roses are in full bloom for the prettiest sight. It’s also a great idea to bring a picnic and enjoy the garden’s serene atmosphere while enjoying your meal.
Lastly, if possible, try to visit during the week to avoid the crowds.