Your ticket to the Fontainebleau Palace unlocks the doors to this historically significant château, once home to notable monarchs like Francis I and even the esteemed Napoleon Bonaparte himself.
Palace of Fontainebleau
The Palace of Fontainebleau, a gem in the Paris-Isle de France region, is a little over an hour's drive or a quick 40-minute train ride from the heart of Paris.
While its roots trace back to medieval times, the palace truly blossomed in the 16th century under the lavish Renaissance vision of King François I.
With your ticket, you'll be able to roam around at your own pace and check out the following areas of the palace:
Château de Fontainebleau.
Within the confines of this grand palace, which boasts an impressive 1,500 rooms, lie the opulent chambers once inhabited by monarchs. These regal abodes, steeped in the style and luxury favored by the kings of their eras, include notable spaces such as the Salon Louis XIII, the Salon François I, and the majestic throne room of Napoleon I.
While exploring, be sure not to overlook the royal chapels, Pope Pius VII's apartment, the Renaissance rooms, Napoleon I's private quarters, and the splendid 19th-century galleries. To make the most of your visit, we highly recommend taking advantage of the English audio guide, available for 4EUR per person.
Napoleon I Museum
This museum dedicated to the First Empire (1804-1814) brings together an exceptional collection of furniture, works of art, paintings, sculptures, weapons, costumes, ceramics, and pottery linked to the ten years of Napoleon I's reign.
Park and gardens
Stretching across a sprawling 130 hectares, this expansive park encompasses enchanting spots like the English and Diana gardens, the serene carp pond, and the grandeur of the Grand Canal.
For added fun, consider hopping aboard the Fontainebleau tourist train, available for 7EUR per person. It's a delightful way to explore and appreciate these lush green spaces.
Opening hours
Fontainebleau Palace
Both the palace and the Napoleon I Museum are open every day (except Tuesdays) at the following times:
- April to September: 9:30 am to 6 pm (last access at 5:15 pm)
- October to March: 9:30 am to 5 pm (last access at 4:15 pm)
Some rooms and spaces may close early. For security reasons, some rooms might be closed at different times throughout the year.
Please note that the tour of the entire palace is intended to take about two hours.
Courtyards and gardens of the palace
- November to February: 9 am to 5 pm (last access at 4 pm)
- March to October: 9 am to 6 pm (last access at 5 pm)
The Diana Garden and the English Garden may close early. In bad weather, these gardens and the rest of the green areas may close for the whole day.
The park is open from Monday to Friday, 24 hours a day.
The Marrier gate closes from 7:30 pm to 9 am.
Please note that all these hours are flexible and subject to change.
Free admission
Admission to the Palais de Fontainebleau is free for the following people:
- Young people from the European Union between the ages of 18 and 25.
- Children under 18 years of age, regardless of nationality.
