A weekend in Fontainebleau: between castle and nature
Fancy a getaway combining history and the great outdoors? Head to Fontainebleau for an unforgettable weekend!
Day 1: Plunge into history at the Château de Fontainebleau
A visit to the castle is an absolute MUST. I don't want you to leave without seeing the castle. Or maybe you've already visited it. But even in that case... Start your stay with a visit to our majestic château de Fontainebleau. Tip: arrive early, around 9.30 in the morning, or in the early afternoon to take full advantage of this architectural gem. Tip: don't miss the Salle de Jeu de Paume when you arrive! Allow around two hours to explore the Grands Appartements and the Musée Napoléon I. Don't miss the famous Galerie François Ier and its Renaissance decor, Napoleon I's Throne Room and Marie-Antoinette's Turkish boudoir.
After visiting the interior, take a stroll through the sumptuous gardens. The Grand Parterre designed by Le Nôtre and the Carp Pond provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break (or picnic!).
Gastronomic evening
If you still have the afternoon, stroll through the streets and visit the magnificent church of Saint-Louis. To round off the day in style, Fontainebleau is full of excellent food shops (patissiers, cheesemongers, etc.), which make excellent souvenirs to take home, as well as restaurants. The food in Fontainebleau is very good, so you won't be disappointed whatever you choose, and it's REALLY safer to book as soon as you've found what you're looking for! If you'd like my personal opinion, I'll share my best addresses with you in my little guide.
Day 2: Nature or culture, depending on the weather
Sunny option: Hiking in the Fontainebleau forest
If the weather is fine, the magnificent forest of Fontainebleau is an absolute must. If you're keen, the sentier des 25 Bosses offers a varied hike through rocky chaos, flatlands and breathtaking viewpoints. Allow around five hours for this 17km loop, which will allow you to discover the full diversity of Bellifont landscapes. If you're looking for something a little gentler, you can find walks of all lengths and difficulties at the Fontainebleau Tourist Office. They always give excellent advice, and give them Emmanuel's best 😉
Rainy option: Artistic escapade in Barbizon
In case of rain, head for the charming village of BarbizonBarbizon was the birthplace of the 19th-century school of landscape painters. Visit the Musée des Peintres de Barbizon to discover works by Millet, Rousseau and their contemporaries. Then wander through the picturesque village streets, dotted with art galleries and artists' studios.
This weekend in Fontainebleau is the perfect combination of history, gastronomy and nature. A royal getaway just 70 km from Paris!