Chateau de Chambord is a spectacular architectural masterpiece. It was designed , possibly with inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci. It has a symmetrical plan even though it evolved over my centuries. It was busy, but never felt crowded like Chenonceau. It has a fascinating double spiral staircase that enables 2 people to climb 2 staircases simultaneously and watch each other through the gaps! Superb views from the terrace of surrounding area. One of my two favourite Loire chateaux.

One of the more well known chateaus in France, this chateau was used mostly as a getaway and hunting lodge by royalty since its inception. Book tickets ahead of time to save time. Entry was free for kids under 18 yrs old, but check ahead. Definitely rent a histopad which will paint a very good picture of the history and what took place here. Many great pictures to be taken. There are multiple floors to visit and lots of steps, so be prepared. Didn't see any lifts, so those with wheelchairs, strollers, and canes alike had to negotiate the stairs the same as everyone else. Nice views from atop the chateau and there's a great exhibition on the roof in one of the rooms about how many items from the Louvre were secreted away here in 1940 when the Nazis overran Paris. Bathrooms and cafe available inside the chateau on the ground level in the courtyard. Parking was a flat fee for the day (6 Euros for cars). Restaurants available just outside the Chateau as well along with wine shops. Nice gift shop at the chateau exit. Great visit.

This is a huge chateau second only in size to Versailles in France. It is immense and in the largest forest in France. It is remarkably impressive and the view from the rooftop terrace is also remarkable. The only drawback is that it is completely unfurnished so it is hard to get a sense of what life was like in this huge structure.

This castle is absolutely stunning, and is worth a look. It is every bit the fairy tale and is even more breathtaking in real life than in the photos. We pre-purchased tickets, but didn’t really need to, as there was barely a queue when we went on a Thursday around the middle of the day in early October. We got an audio guide, but I found it slightly tricky to use, as it’s an iPad and I thought it was a bit unnecessary as it was quite heavy around my neck and there were a couple of videos playing in the castle and information panels at various points which sufficed. We also hired the golf cart, but I probably also wouldn’t do that again because we didn’t see much of the garden we couldn’t see from the castle, but it was a bit of fun anyway! There were picnic tables outside between the car park and the chateau that were under cover where we had lunch, which was lovely.

I visited this castle in April of 2023 during a school trip. It is monumental and impressive! It’s a magnificent castle of Renaissance. It’s so beautiful to see the castle from the road with the path of trees. It’s interesting to see the castle in the movie named “Peau d’Âne” released in 1970 with Catherine Deneuve. It’s the castle of the red royal family. We can see the room of the prince while he is singing his song: “Chanson du Prince”. However, in reality, rooms are empty although some rooms are decorated with painting like Flanders Renaissance tapestries. When you climb to the top you can see the enormous French gardens and the realm which extends to several hectares. I enjoyed my visit, this castle be worth the trip !

This is the biggest and the most famous (and most visited) of the castles on Loire and it fully deserves its fame. Fascinating buiding with grandious architecture, big park, even forest around belonging to the castle. The first builder Francois I planned this very big Renaissance style hunting lodge for his own recreation but also successfully demonstated the absolute monarch power. It is interesting, for example, that before each visit of the king many servants carried a bunch of necessary things from the royal castle of Blois. Visiting even a part of the castle is a must for tourists. Be prepared to wait in line upon entering the castle for baggage check, even with pre-purchased tickets (we waited at least 40 minutes in August). A golf cart tour around the castle is also enjoyable.

The chateau embodies Renaissance ideals of architecture. It is a living monument to the Renaissance. That is my main take away. The staircase is mind blowing. Many rooms are sorta unfurnished but there's enough to give you a sense of things. Pay attention to layout of the place, as well as the symmetries. Pay attention to the personal crests and logos emblazoned in the stone. I have no special tips, it was all as expected.

Immersing oneself in the grandeur of this château is an experience that truly dazzles and exceeds expectations. We were blessed with a glorious day, enhancing the charm of our visit. The distinct charm lies in its unfurnished allure, setting it apart from its counterparts. Without a doubt, a visit is a must for those seeking a taste of something different.

If your trying to make a statement as François I was Chambord certainly does it. The grounds are roughly the size of Paris surrounded by a wall. The Château is enormous with unique architecture, especially displayed in the dual staircase. The French Renaissance in all its glory. Certainly one of the highlights on the Loire Valley.

Wow. This castle was incredibly interesting, from the double spiral staircase in the center, to the unique layout, to the stunning rooftop. The various exhibits throughout were well-done, especially the section devoted to Chambord’s role in preserving artwork during WWII. A favorite from a trip that included several castle visits.