Château de Chenonceau: Tickets

Château de Chenonceau Tickets - Prices and Visitor Information

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What is Château de Chenonceau?

• Known as the “Ladies’ Château”, Château de Chenonceau is famous for its elegant Renaissance architecture, spectacular galleries stretching across the River Cher and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, the château was shaped by influential women including Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis, giving it a unique history unlike any other French royal residence.
• The beautiful property is one of the most famous castles in France.

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Quick Information

• ‍Château de Chenonceau Address: Chenonceaux, 37150, Chenonceaux
• Opening Hours: Daily from 09:00 - 19:00
• Recommended Visit Duration: 2-4 hours
• Suitable For: Families, couples, photography and history lovers

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Is Château de Chenonceau Worth Visiting?

Yes, Château de Chenonceau is widely considered one of the highlights of the Loire Valley.

It is ideal for visitors who enjoy:

• Historic castles rich in French Renaissance history
• Elegant architecture and riverside scenery
• Cultural landmarks linked to French royalty
• Photography and scenic walks

It is also one of the most visited châteaux in France and makes an excellent day trip from Tours, Amboise or Paris.

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What Visitors See at Château de Chenonceau

Visitors to the château can explore:

• Royal apartments and historic reception rooms
• The famous gallery built across the River Cher
• The château chapel
• Renaissance kitchens located in the bridge foundations
• Formal gardens designed by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis
• Decorative arts collections including paintings, tapestries and antique furniture
• A hedge maze and landscaped grounds

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About Château de Chenonceau‍

Château de Chenonceau is one of the most famous châteaux in the Loire Valley.

It was constructed between 1513 and 1517 on the site of the original and was built in a French Renaissance architectural style with a blend of Gothic and Italian Renaissance elements.

The château has an interesting past. It was built by Thomas Bohier and his wife, Catherine Briçonnet, who were a noble family and Catherine had significant input during the castle's construction, so it has a lot of her influence in the design.

In 1547, it came into the ownership of King Henry II, who actually gave it to his favourite mistress, Diane de Poitiers. Diane added more features to the château, including the famous arched bridge that spans the River Cher.

After King Henry II’s death, his widow, Catherine de’ Medici took it back from Diane and used it herself. Catherine made further changes and additions, including adding the gallery on the bridge, which is referred to as the 'Gallery of the Ladies' which offers amazing views of the river and is covered with beautiful stained glass windows and art.

The château was later abandoned for around 100 years until the late 1700s, when Louise Dupin took ownership. Louise was the wife of Claude Dupin who was one of Louis XV's wealthy 'tax farmers'.

Given the château has been home to several notable women over the years and all of which were involved with its design and various changes, the castle earned the nickname of "Château des Dames", which translates to “The Ladies Castle.”.

In 1913, chocolatier 'Henri Menier' bought the château and the 'Menier' family still own the castle to this day.

The castle has been open to the public for over 100 years and visitors can enjoy its incredible collection of furniture, tapestries and paintings from some of the great European painters covering the 16th to 18th centuries.

Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful manicured gardens which include a French garden, a vegetable and flower garden, the Garden of Catherine Medici and a fun maze.

The castle also has a chapel, a wine cellar and Francis I's drawing room.

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