Visit the Château de Chambord
Ascend the ingenious double-helix staircase, wander the rooftop terraces, and explore the largest château in the Loire Valley.
Buy TicketsCommissioned by King Francis I as a hunting lodge, the Château de Chambord is the largest and most majestic castle in the Loire Valley. Its breathtaking French Renaissance architecture, vast forested park, and the enigmatic double-helix staircase attributed to Leonardo da Vinci make it a must-see. To plan your trip, check the opening hours and our tips for the best time to visit. Our visitors guide provides a complete overview of what to see.
Available Tickets
Ticket prices breakdown
- Adult (non-EEA resident): €31
- Adult (EEA resident): €21
- Reduced Rate (non-EEA resident): €28.50
- Reduced Rate (EEA resident): €18.50
- Under 18s & EU/EEA residents under 26: Free
- Disabled visitor + 1 companion: Free
- HistoPad Tablet (optional): €8.50 per tablet for an augmented reality tour.
EEA includes the European Union, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Proof of residency is required for the preferential rate.
Why book your tickets here
A seamless experience from booking to visiting
Instant Booking
Secure your entry in minutes. Receive your tickets instantly by email and skip the ticket counter queues on arrival.
Mobile Tickets
No need to print. Simply show the QR code on your smartphone at the entrance for quick and easy access.
Free Cancellation
Plans can change. Cancel up to 24 hours before your visit date for a full refund, no questions asked.
Guaranteed Entry
Booking in advance guarantees your entry, even on busy days. Spend less time waiting and more time exploring the magnificent château.
The Double-Helix Staircase: A Stroke of Genius
At the heart of the château lies its most famous feature: the double-helix staircase. Attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, who was a guest of King Francis I in France, this architectural marvel consists of two intertwined spirals. This ingenious design allows two people to ascend or descend simultaneously without ever meeting, though they can glimpse each other through small openings in the central core.
The staircase serves the main floors of the keep and rises to the rooftop terrace, which itself feels like the skyline of a small city with its forest of chimneys and turrets. The structure is not just a functional element but a spectacular centerpiece, designed to impress and entertain the royal court. It embodies the spirit of the Renaissance, blending artistic innovation with scientific curiosity, and remains a testament to the visionary ambitions of the king and his architect.
How It Works
Your visit in 3 simple steps
Select Your Tickets
Choose the number of adult tickets you need. Add an optional HistoPad for an immersive augmented reality experience.
Receive by Email
Complete the secure payment and receive your tickets instantly in your inbox. No need to print them.
Scan at the Entrance
On the day of your visit, go directly to the entrance and present the QR code on your smartphone to be scanned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Essential information for your visit to Chambord