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Château de Chenonceau: The Ladies' Château

Discover Château de Chenonceau, the 'Ladies’ Château' in the Loire Valley, a Renaissance masterpiece with a rich history and stunning architecture.

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Spanning the River Cher, Château de Chenonceau is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture with a rich history shaped by influential women. Known as the 'Ladies’ Château,' its elegant design and beautiful gardens reflect the tastes and contributions of figures like Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.

A brief summary to Château de Chenonceau

  • Monday 9 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during April, May, June, or September to avoid peak tourist season and enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
  • Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and during school vacations.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the castle, gardens, and other attractions on the estate.
  • Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry.
  • Take time to wander through both Diane's and Catherine's gardens to appreciate their distinct styles and features.
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Getting There

  • Train

    The Château de Chenonceau is easily accessible by train. From Paris, take a TGV train from Gare Montparnasse to Tours (Gare Saint-Pierre-des-Corps), approximately a 1-hour journey. From Tours, transfer to a local TER train to Chenonceaux station, a short 25-minute ride. The train station is located about 400 meters from the château entrance. A single TER train ticket from Tours to Chenonceaux costs around €6.

  • Car

    If driving from Paris, take the A10 motorway and exit at Blois or Amboise. Follow the signs to Chenonceaux. The drive is approximately 2.5 hours. Free parking is available for visitors near the castle. GPS coordinates: 47.3249, 1.07029.

  • Taxi

    From the Chenonceaux train station, taxis are available for a short ride to the Château de Chenonceau. The taxi ride takes approximately 2 minutes and costs between €4–6. Taxi services can also be found in nearby towns such as Amboise.

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Discover more about Château de Chenonceau

Château de Chenonceau, gracefully arching over the River Cher in the Loire Valley, is more than just a picturesque castle; it's a testament to the powerful women who shaped its history. Built on the foundations of a 15th-century mill, the château's architecture seamlessly blends late Gothic and Renaissance styles. Originally owned by the Marques family, the estate was acquired by Thomas Bohier in 1513, who, with his wife Katherine Briçonnet, began constructing the new residence. It was later enriched by Diane de Poitiers, mistress of King Henry II, who added the bridge over the Cher. Upon Henry's death, his widow Catherine de Medici expelled Diane and expanded the château, adding the gallery over the bridge. Throughout the years, Chenonceau has served various purposes, including a military hospital during World War I and a passage between occupied and free France during World War II. Today, it stands as one of the most visited châteaux in France, captivating visitors with its unique architecture, exquisite gardens, and the intriguing stories of the women who left their mark. The gardens include the Garden of Catherine de Medici and a maze. Visitors can also see the chapel, wine cellar, and Francis I's drawing room. The floral decorations are renewed in the spring and summer, requiring 130,000 plants.

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