Things to Do in Fontainebleau

Discover two of the most beautiful Châteaux near Paris: visit Vaux-le-Vicomte with ist lovely gardens and admire the regal splendor of Fontainebleau.

Your guide will guide you inside the castle to bring up to life this unique place, the Château de Fontainebleau which can proudly claim to have been a sovereign residence for eight centuries, where all members of French ruling dynasties, have lived within these walls. A visit to Fontainebleau opens up an unparalleled view of French history, art history and architecture.

A luxurious retreat for French royalty

This full day excursion from Paris takes you to the two magnificent châteaux of Vaux le Vicomte and Fontainebleau. Visit at your own pace the castles with your audioguide.

Discover Château de Fontainebleau with an entry ticket and guided tour. Hear about the castle's history from your private guide, visit the grand apartments of the monarchy, and marvel at the immense ballroom. Meet your guide outside the palace and head inside. As you stroll, learn about the rich history of this impressive palace and how it morphed from a royal hunting lodge to the family home of the kings. Marvel at Italian Renaissance works from Primaticcio and Il Rosso, the founders of the School of Fontainebleau. Continue to the monarchs’ luxurious apartments, furnished in different styles from the Renaissance to the 19th century. Next, head to the impressive Francis 1st Gallery, decorated with frescoes and stucco in the Renaissance style. Then pass the impeccably decorated ballroom. Finish with a visit to the apartments of Emperor Napoleon Ist, including the beautiful imperial bedroom.

Explore magnificent châteaux' steeped in French history, just an hour from Paris

Fly above the Fontainebleau Forest on a hot-air balloon ride that provides aerial views of the French countryside outside of Paris. During a morning or evening flight, look down on rivers, villages, and the vast forest, which was once the hunting ground of French kings, home to wild boar, deer, and pheasant. The ride takes place either just after sunrise or at the end of the day, when winds are calm and the air is cool and stable. The total adventure is about three hours, including balloon inflation, a 1-hour flight, a traditional toast upon landing, and return to the start point. When booking, you have the option to upgrade to a private tour for just two passengers and a pilot in the basket.

We leave Paris in the morning from your hotel and driving to Fontainebleau Palace. Capétiens, Valois, Bourbons, Bonaparte and Orléans, all members of French ruling dynasties, have lived within these walls. Reaching there, the guide will give you an orientation along with your entrance ticket. A lot of attractions are available on these 130 hectares of parks and gardens, including horse-drawn carriage rides, jeu de paume (real tennis) games, Segway rides, boating, ice-cream and hot-air balloon trips. The keep, which dates from 1137, is the most visible remaining medieval feature. Some of the interior passageways and spiral staircases set within these great walls are witness to this era. Since the end of the 19th century, it has been home to four museums: The Empress’ Chinese Museum (1863), The Napoleon I Museum (1986), The Galerie de Peinture (Paintings Gallery) (1998) and The Furniture Gallery (2009).

Enjoy a seasonal French cooking class in a sun-filled home in Fontainebleau, just steps from the town center. Learn to prepare authentic French dishes from scratch with a warm, Parisian host who blends family traditions with global flavors. Savor your creations over wine, cheese from a local fromagerie, and a classic French dessert. This hands-on culinary experience offers an intimate taste of French culture, just an hour from Paris.

Skip the Ticket Purchase Line and Save Time – Don’t let long lines take away from your travel experience. The opulent royal apartments where kings, queens, and emperors once resided. The Gallery of Francis I, featuring beautiful Renaissance frescoes and artwork. Napoleon Bonaparte’s private apartments, offering a glimpse into the emperor’s life. The Napoleon Room with memorabilia and portraits from the Napoleonic era. Flexible and Independent Experience – Perfect for travelers who prefer freedom over group tours. It is not possible to skip the security lines. There could be a line at the entrance and is mandatory for all visitors.