If you’re planning a day trip from Paris, Versailles is often the obvious choice. It’s legendary – an icon of royal excess, historical drama, and architectural beauty. But on our recent visit, we decided to take a different path. We went to the Château de Chantilly instead.
Our reasoning was simple: the kids (ages 8, 9, and 11) weren’t particularly invested in French royal history, but they did love horses. We wanted them to see a different side of France—something beyond the city—and we didn’t want to spend the day elbowing our way through a crowd.
Luckily, Chantilly had just the right mix of charm and space. The stables—built in the 18th century by a prince who famously believed he’d be reincarnated as a horse—are nothing short of spectacular.
Chantilly offered a glimpse of the French countryside, an elegant château, and something Versailles can’t always promise: breathing room.
How to Get to Château de Chantilly from Paris
Getting to Chantilly is easy. We took a direct train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux, which took just over 20 minutes. From there, it was a short taxi ride to the château, (though you can also walk if the weather’s nice). No traffic, no long lines—just a scenic ride and fresh air waiting at the other end.
Watching the countryside roll by—even just from the window—checked a box for us. Once we arrived, we found a peaceful, walkable town, and a château that surprised us with its quiet grandeur.
Driving from central Paris to Chantilly will take you about an hour and a half. And I’d recommend taking a car, because there’s a ton to see in the area for kids. (Scroll down for my suggestions.)
What to See at Château de Chantilly
The Château de Chantilly is smaller than Versailles, yes, but in many ways more approachable. You can actually see the interiors—stand in the rooms, take in the details, and not feel rushed.
The attached Musée Condé houses an impressive art collection, second only to the Louvre for historical paintings. Works by Raphael, Poussin, Ingres, and the Clouets line the galleries, with Raphael’s “Three Graces” as a highlight.
In the Petit Château, you’ll find elaborately decorated rooms like the Apartment of the Princes, filled with period furniture and painted ceilings. The Salon des Singes (Monkey Room), featuring playful chinoiserie designs, is a favorite with visitors of all ages.
Why Kids Love the Grand Stables at Château de Chantilly
For the kids, the stables were a hit.
Across from the château, the Grand Stables are a masterpiece in themselves—ornate, massive, and steeped in story. Built in the 18th century by a prince who famously believed he’d be reincarnated as a horse, they’re nothing short of majestic. Louis Henri de Bourbon didn’t just want stables—he wanted a palace for horses.
Today, they house the Living Horse Museum, showcasing France’s deep equestrian traditions with exhibits on breeds, training, and riding. On select days, you can catch a dressage performance in the indoor arena, surrounded by chandeliers and stone arches.
The whole experience is charming, a little unexpected, and completely unhurried—a must for any horse lover.
Exploring the Gardens of Château de Chantilly
The gardens, designed in part by André Le Nôtre (who also designed the gardens of Versailles), are peaceful, spacious, and perfect for a slow stroll or a picnic. With no rush or crowds, we were able to let the kids roam freely and enjoy the space.
What to Eat (Including the Famous Cream)
Lunch was simple—we packed a picnic and ate in the gardens. For something more formal, the nearby Auberge du Jeu de Paume is a refined option.
And of course, we had to try crème Chantilly—a velvety whipped cream, lightly sweetened and vanilla-scented, that originated right here. Traditionally, it’s served on fresh berries, tarts, éclairs, or even just a spoon.
Simple and perfect.
Is Château de Chantilly Worth Visiting with Kids?
Chantilly is a top place to visit with children. Beyond the engaging exhibits at the Horse Museum and the expansive gardens of the Château de Chantilly, the area boasts numerous family-friendly attractions.
A personal favorite, Parc Astérix is located 20 kilometers from Chantilly. This popular theme park is inspired by the beloved French comic series “Astérix.” The park features over 50 attractions and shows, providing entertainment for all ages. It’s an excellent option for a day filled with adventure and fun.
Fancy an adventure? Sherwood Parc is situated near the Château de Chantilly. This park offers a myriad of outdoor activities. Think tree climbing, zip lines, and archery – it’s ideal for active families.
Combining a visit to Chantilly with trips to these nearby attractions can create a diverse and enjoyable experience for your family, balancing cultural exploration with outdoor adventure.
So, the real question: is Chantilly worth visiting with kids?
Yes—especially if your children aren’t quite ready for the intensity of Versailles. Ours enjoyed the space to explore, the interactive exhibits at the Horse Museum, and the freedom to wander through gardens without being overwhelmed.
For us, it was a meaningful experience that didn’t feel like a checklist item.
Versailles vs. Chantilly: Which Should You Choose?
Some (but certainly not me) argue that Chantilly can’t compete with Versailles. It’s true that Versailles is unmatched in its scale and symbolism, but that scale comes at a cost. The interiors of Versailles are often packed wall-to-wall with visitors. The air grows heavy. Guides struggle to speak over the hum of the crowd.
For some, that experience feels more like a test of patience than a moment of awe. I’ve known several travelers who have reported feeling overwhelmed, especially with kids. One guide even shared that a child in their group became physically ill from the heat and crush of the crowd.
By contrast, Chantilly is calm. You can hear your own footsteps echo in the hallways. You can admire a painting without jostling for a view. And you can spend time in the gardens designed by André Le Nôtre—the same master who designed Versailles—without needing to dodge tour groups.
Now, for a little bit of context: Chantilly is more than just a château; it’s a piece of living history. The estate spans over 19,000 acres of parkland and forest. It was the ancestral home of the Montmorency and Condé families, second only to the king in power during their day.
The Petit Château, built in the 16th century, is richly decorated in the styles of Louis XV and XVI, including the whimsical Salon des Singes (the Monkey Room), which features monkeys painted in fashionable 18th-century chinoiserie scenes.
The Grand Château, destroyed during the Revolution and rebuilt in the 19th century, houses the extensive art collection of the Duke of Aumale. His taste was elite, and his fortune vast—Chantilly is the result of both. Unlike many châteaux in the Loire, which are sparsely furnished, Chantilly is richly decorated and carefully preserved.
What Else Is Chantilly Known For?
In addition to the château, Chantilly is famous for a few other cultural treasures.
Chantilly lace, a delicate handmade lace that originated here in the 17th century, became one of France’s most sought-after exports. Often crafted in black silk or white linen, it was worn by royalty and continues to influence fashion design today.
And then there’s that addictive rock tune, “Chantilly Lace,” — the hit by The Big Bopper in 1958. While the song has nothing to do with the château, I can’t stop thinking about whenever I think of Chantilly Castle. (And I still can’t get it out of my head.)
“Hello, baaaaby…”
