Starting from Paris, visit the elegant Fontainebleau Palace and experience the perfect blend of history and beauty
The Chateau de Fontainebleau is one of the most charming royal palaces in the suburbs of Paris, apart from the Palace of Versailles. It houses the stories of several generations of French monarchs and serves as a historical witness from the Renaissance to the Napoleonic era. Just an hour’s drive from Paris, you can enter this charming world full of history, art and nature. If you are planning a fulfilling and pleasant trip to a French town, Fontainebleau is definitely your top choice.
The historical story of the Palace of Fontainebleau
The name “Fontainebleau” is brimming with literary charm. Its translation originated from Mr. Zhu Ziqing’s ingenious handling of the French word “Fontainebleau”, which has a unique flavor. The palace itself is a “living chronicle” of French history.
Origin: It can be traced back to Louis VII, who built a simple hunter’s lodging here for rest after hunting.
The splendor of the Renaissance: In the 16th century, King Francis I transformed this humble building into a magnificent royal palace, introducing the Italian Renaissance style. The famous gallery in the palace still preserves the artistic treasures of that era to this day.
Napoleon’s Footsteps: In 1814, Napoleon signed his abdication agreement here, bringing his empire to an end.
The architectural styles of the palace are diverse, featuring the elegance of the Renaissance as well as the integration of Baroque and classical elements. It is like a jigsaw puzzle of history, waiting for you to explore in person.
Ticket purchasing, audio guides and visiting suggestions
Ticket
There aren’t many tourists at the Palace of Fontainebleau, so buying tickets on the spot is usually not a problem. However, to avoid special circumstances, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance on the official website. The Paris Museum Pass also includes this attraction. You can enter the park directly with the pass.
Courtyard stroll
After visiting the palace, don’t miss the surrounding courtyards. On sunny days, the courtyard of Fontainebleau is like a painting, and a casual shot can be a masterpiece. Moreover, there are cute swans and squirrels around here, making it very suitable for taking children or taking photo shoots.
How can I get from Paris to Fontainebleau
It is very convenient to get to Fontainebleau from Paris. The following is the detailed route
Train
Take the R line train from Paris Gare de Lyon railway Station to Fontainebleau-Avon Station. The journey takes about 39 minutes.
The Navigo weekly pass can be used for free during this trip.
“Bus
After getting off the train, you can see the bus stop inside the parking lot as soon as you step out of the platform. There are clear Chinese signs here, which are very friendly.
Take Bus No. 1 (direction: Les Lilas), and it will take about 10 minutes to reach Chateau stop. Right after getting off, you will find the side entrance of the Palace of Fontainebleau.
Return journey
On the way back, take Bus No. 1 at the same stop (Chateau stop), change the direction to Les Bouleaux, and return to the railway station.
The train departs from Platform 2. Trains bound for Gare de Lyon in Paris can easily return to Paris.
Must-see highlights of the Palace of Fontainebleau
Inside the palace
The palace has numerous rooms inside, each of which showcases a different historical period and decorative style. It is particularly worth noting the Gallery of Francois I, which is one of the most dazzling Renaissance art treasures in the palace.
Courtyard and natural scenery
The Palace of Fontainebleau is not only a masterpiece of architectural art, but its surrounding courtyards and forests are also captivating. You can stroll in the vast courtyard, enjoying the serene beauty of sunlight shining on the pool and ancient trees.
Summary
The Palace of Fontainebleau is a royal palace that perfectly combines French history with natural scenery. Whether you want to explore the splendor of the European Renaissance, follow in the footsteps of Napoleon’s history, or simply stroll leisurely in the courtyard, this place will not disappoint you. If you plan to embark on a relaxing “micro-trip” from Paris, Fontainebleau is an excellent choice!
Remember to book your tickets in advance, bring your camera and curiosity, and immerse yourself in the charm of this palace together!