Surrounded by Chantilly Forest, the small, sophisticated town of Chantilly is located in the Hauts-de-France region of Northern France. The town features imposing chateaus, parks, and gardens and was linked to the House of Montmorency from the 15th century to the 17th century. No need to worry about where to stay! Airbnb vacation rentals are dotted around the area and the best hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower views are a short drive away!
As the home to the largest racehorse-training community in France, the town is renowned for its horse racing track, Chantilly Racecourse, which hosts some of the most prestigious horse races in the world. From visiting Domaine de Chantilly to strolling through the Chantilly Forest, here is a list of the top things to do in Chantilly, France.
1. Explore the hydraulic systems at Manse Pavilion
Built in the 17th century to house a hydraulic machine, Manse Pavilion is considered a part of the industrial heritage of the Chantilly region. The machine was used to raise spring water to supply the pools, cascades, and fountains in the castle gardens and was replaced by an updated pumping station in the 19th century. Manse Pavilion also houses an ultra-modern laundry that was built in the late 19th century by the Duke of Aumale. Sound interesting? Don’t miss out on this important cultural site when in the Chantilly area.
Manse Pavilion
Address: 34 Rue des Cascades, 60500 Chantilly, France
Website: Manse Pavilion
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 2pm - 5:30pm (closed on Mon)
2. Learn about lace-making at Museum of Chantilly Lace
The lace of Chantilly is made of white or black silk and has been popular since the time of Napoleon III’s wife, the Empress Eugenia de Montijo. The Museum of Chantilly Lace was created by the city of Chantilly, housing beautiful collections and pieces. It was opened to the public in 2016. The museum features more than 1,000 pieces of lace from the 19th century and offers information on the process of making lace by hand. Make sure to stop by to learn a thing or two about this intricate artform.
Museum of Chantilly Lace
Address: 34 Rue d'Aumale, 60500 Chantilly
Website: Museum of Chantilly Lace
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 2pm - 6pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
Price: Free to tour
3. Take a stroll through Chantilly Forest
Looking for cheap things to do in France? Stroll through Chantilly Forest! Chantilly Forest is located in the region of Oise and is home to a variety of trees that include Scots pines, beeches, and oaks. The forest has been used for horse training and walking by people for more than 50 years. The forest also has close access to the chateau, Great Stables, Chantilly Park, and a variety of restaurants and lodging options. Looking to spend a slow, laidback day in the outdoors? A stroll through Chantilly Forest could be just what you need.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Wander around the gardens at Le Potager des Princes
Le Potager des Princes is a stunning park in the heart of Chantilly that features diverse flora and fauna. The park contains different styles of gardens such as the Garden of Eden, Japanese Garden, Garden of Topiars, and Kitch Garden that are complemented by magnificent plants and trees. Built as a paradise for children and animals, Le Potager des Princes is a scenic place to spend a lazy afternoon with your family and definitely a place worth visiting in Chantilly.
Le Potager des Princes
Address: 17 rue de la Faisanderie 60500 Chantilly
Website: Le Potager des Princes
Opening hours: 10am - 12pm; 2pm - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
5. Watch high-class horse racing at Chantilly Racecourse
Chantilly Racecourse is a right-handed course renowned for flat racing. The racecourse offers stunning views of the castle and is home to some of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The racecourse also houses the country’s largest horse training area and is a must-visit for anyone interested in thoroughbred horses. If you’re up for it, catch a thrilling horse race and get your adrenaline pumping.
Chantilly Racecourse
Address: 73 rue Connétable, 60500 Chantilly
Website: Chantilly Racecourse
6. Visit Living Museum of the Horse
Living Museum of the Horse in Chantilly is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to equestrian shows and exhibits. The museum is well-organized and is housed in an architecturally spectacular building. The museum also houses diverse breeds of horses and is hence called a living museum. The museum is an ideal stopover for anyone who is interested in learning about the history and importance of our relationship with horses.
Living Museum of the Horse
Address: Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly
Website: Horse Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 13 USD
7. Treat yourself to French cuisine at Le Bouchon Gourmand
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The restaurant Le Bouchon Gourmand is located in the heart of the city and is well-known for its elegant ambience and sumptuous food. The restaurant is situated right next to the Great Stable of Chantilly and is a favourite among the locals and the visitors alike. With friendly service, reasonable prices, and excellent French cuisine, a meal at the charming, delightful restaurant should not be missed during your visit to Chantilly.
Le Bouchon Gourmand
Address: 22 Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly
Website: Le Bouchon Gourmand
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 12pm - 2pm; Tue - Sat: 12pm - 2pm; 7pm - 10pm
8. Drink the night away at Indiana Pub
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Situated in Marechal Joffre Avenue, Indiana Pub boasts a great team of staff serving delicious cocktails and food items in a great atmosphere. The pub features a small corridor and a terrace and is an ideal place to hang out with your friends over a couple of drinks. Located close to the cinema hall of Chantilly, the pub serves reasonably priced cocktails and is a local favourite.
Indiana Pub
Address: 33 Avenue du Maréchal Joffre, 60500 Chantilly
Website: Indiana Pub
9. View the second largest art collection in France at Musée Condé
If you’re wondering, what to do in Chantilly, visiting Musée Condé should be first on that list! Located inside Chateau de Chantilly, Musée Condé is a museum that houses the extensive art collection built by Henri d'Orleans, the Duke of Aumale. The museum features the second-largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre and rooms that focus on art, tapestry, history, and portraiture. You can also find masterpieces such as Raphael’s Three Graces and popular works of other artists such as Clouet, Poussin, Ingres, Gericault, Corot, and Delacroix. If you’re an art lover, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on taking a tour here.
Musée Condé
Address: 60500 Chantilly, France
Website: Musée Condé
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 13 USD
10. Marvel at the architecture of Church of Our Lady of the Assumption of Chantilly
Built in 1692, The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Chantilly is one of the masterpieces of classical art. The church was established under the behest of Conde’s princes and designed by the Fench Baroque architect and builder, Jules Hardouin Mansart. Well-known for his works such as the domed chapel of Les Invalides, Place des Victories, and the Grand Trianon of the Palace of Versailles, Jules Hardouin Mansart used his distinctive style of French classicism to evoke the history of Chantilly and gives tribute to the lives of the dukes and princes in the church with paintings, altars, and stained glass. The church now hosts cultural events, films, and movements organized by the parish teams of the church. The church is a must-visit for anyone interested in the architectural design and the religious history of the Chantilly region.
Church of Our Lady of the Assumption of Chantilly
Address: 5-7 Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly
11. Taste the famous Chantilly cream at Couleurs Café
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Couleurs Cafe is a cute little coffee shop that serves an excellent selection of artisanal coffees and light meals. The coffee shop offers a relaxing environment with minimalistic tasteful interiors and Arabica coffee from all over the world. Located just steps away from the market square, this delightful cafe with homey vibes is the perfect place to taste the world-famous sweet cream of Chantilly and is well worth a visit for any coffee lover.
Couleurs Café
Address: 97 Rue du Connétable, 60500 Chantilly, France
Website: Couleurs Café
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 7:30am - 7pm; Sat: 8:30am - 7pm; Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
12. Delve into Chantilly's history and culture at Domaine de Chantilly
Domaine de Chantilly is one of the most important monuments of the French heritage and is home to the well-preserved treasures of the Duke of Aumale, Henri d’ Orleans. Located to the north of Paris, Domaine de Chantilly hosts 3 equestrian shows per year, houses over 200 objects and artworks exhibited in the Horse Museum, the second largest collection of paintings after the Louvre, second-largest library for illuminated manuscripts after the National Library of France, and a park. Chantilly Domaine has always belonged to princely dynasties who have contributed to its development. Currently, it offers guided tours to the public who want to get a glimpse into the grandiose Chantilly culture.
Domaine de Chantilly
Address: Le Château, 60500 Chantilly, France
Website: Domaine de Chantilly
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 13 USD
13. Stop by the Great Stables
The Great Stables of Chantilly are the largest stables in Europe and is home to the Museum of the Horse. The Great Stables is a well-renowned place for hosting events and private parties and is an ideal place to visit if you are interested in equestrian performances and in learning about the disciplines of the haute-ecole. The stables house an auditorium that can entertain more than 500 guests, a paved courtyard, and a setting with elegant decors.
Great Stables
Address:60500 Chantilly, France
Website: Great Stables
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 13 USD
Nearby things to do
1. Go on thrilling rides and witness magic at Astérix Park
Ready to have some good old theme park fun? One of the best things to do near Chantilly is to visit Astérix Park! Scream to the top of your lungs on thrilling rides such as La Galere, a swinging boat ride, or go on a classic roller coaster ride at Pegase Express. Remember to hold on tight as Les Chaise Volantes takes you on a spin with another, smaller option for the kids, the Les Petites Chaises Volantes.
Aside from rides, visiting the park can also be a gastronomic experience. Enjoy a light snack at Le Relais Gaulois or go for a taste of wild boar at Le Restaurant Du Lac. For more casual dining, visit Le Cirque, a casual serve-yourself buffet.
Astérix Park
Address: Parc Astérix, 60128 Plailly, France
Website: Astérix Park
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Adult: 51 EUR (55.75 USD), Children: 48 EUR (52.47 USD)
2. Feel like a royal duke at Chantilly Castle (from USD 19.92)
Chateau de Chantilly is a famous castle located 30 miles (50 kilometres) away from Paris. The castle is home to Conde Museum and was once connected to the Montmorency family. The castle was established by the Duke of Aumale, Henri d’ Orleans, and was renovated in the 19th century after being destroyed during the French Revolution. The castle has hosted a range of high-profile weddings, music concerts, and was featured in the famous James Bond movie ‘A View to a Kill’.
Chateau of Chantilly: Skip-the-Line Ticket
Duration: 1 day
Explore Chantilly
As home to some of the best equestrian shows in the country, an imposing Renaissance castle, world-class thickened sweet creams, and exceptional delicate fabrics, Chantilly offers interesting reasons to visit. From getting awed by Delacroix’s and Corot’s works at Musée Condé to sipping a cuppa hot chocolate with whipped cream at Chantilly’s top coffee shops, the above list of things to do in Chantilly, France runs the entire gamut of the town’s best attractions and experiences. Take your pick to make the most out of your visit to this elegant town of art and history.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Chantilly, France
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