Overview
Château de Chambord is a grand Renaissance-style château in Chambord, France, known for its distinctive French Renaissance architecture and double spiral staircase. It is one of the most recognizable châteaux in the world and a major tourist attraction in the Loire Valley.
Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built as a hunting lodge for King Francis I of France and is the largest château in the Loire Valley.
Location
Address
Le Château, Rue de la Grange aux Dîmes, Chambord, Centre-Val de Loire
Neighborhood: Chambord
Coordinates
47.633300, 1.483300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring blooms
- • gardens in bloom
summer
hot
- • extended hours
- • night tours
autumn
cool, crisp
- • fall colors
- • harvest season
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • Christmas market
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, some walking and stairs
- • uneven surfaces
- • stairs in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards, debit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week
- • official website
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • available online
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Château de Chambord Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Main courtyard
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Tours Val de Loire Airport (TUF)
Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage
Historical Significance: Built for King Francis I, an emblem of French Renaissance architecture
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for local residents
- Best food and wine at the back entrance café
- Less crowded on weekdays
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cuisine at the café
- • Ask for a guide with historical knowledge
- • Visit nearby vineyards
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main staircase
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the double spiral staircase
Result: Iconic shot with great lighting
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Domaine National de Chambord
Distance: 0.5km
Walking: 5 min
Type: Park
Château de Cheverny
Distance: 20 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Castle
Château de Chenonceau
Distance: 40 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Castle
ZooParc de Beauval
Distance: 45 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Zoo
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online in advance"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Don't miss the gardens"
- "Comfortable shoes are a must"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
125
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
€16