This site is more than just a chateau. In addition to the castle, the grounds are extensive. If you have a chance to look at a map of the property before you go, you can plot the path that suits you best. We went on a hot day and so we only managed to see the chateau and one side of the grounds (the one with the farm and all the outbuildings). If you go in warm weather, I would recommend a hat and hand-held fan. Also, wear good footwear for walking. Not only will you be walking the grounds, but there is a walk from the parking lot to the chateau. It's an amazing property and you want to be able to enjoy it all.

VERY crowded, even when we would consider it off season, but glad we went. The grounds are lovely. Entrance fee is 15.50 , you are given a time slot for your visit. There is a small donkey sanctuary on the grounds that we enjoyed. We were glad that we read about the history and property before we went, if you have time, we recommend that you do also.

This visit is also a must for tourists in Loire valley. Really an elegant castle above the water. It is not for nothing that several very famous ladies of French history have left their mark, both on the construction and the furniture.

Beautiful, relaxed, more delicate, and enhanced by history of Catherine de Medici....this is how I describe Chenonceau. We enjoyed the setting along the river, the kitchens area, the office and green room of Catherine, as well as the black bedroom (mourning). The setting is extraordinary, you can see why it was chosen, and you can see why Catherine and Diane enjoyed being here. This was second in our organized Loire trip and it was on par with our first stop, Chambord. Chambord is more amazing for its intricate architecture and planning, Chenonceau is more of a delight to see what you find. They are different but equal. Thirdly we stopped at Cheverny that was not up to the same level of interest at all. Tips: 1) Consider eating lunch first, then going through chateau. Our tour of course went through chateau first, and got into line for lunch right ahead of us, as did everyone else. If you can time your touring right, you can eat in peace and then have the chateau in some peace as well, simply by flipping around your approach in this way. 2) We visited January 2nd and Christmas decor still up. It is really impressive. It is known as one of the best decorated for holidays. Yes, that is true! If you are devoted to such holiday decor, you may take as many pics of that as the chateau itself. 3) Go into the garden. The best views are from the garden back toward the chateau.

This is an amazing place. I have seen so many photographs of the Château and it really is better in real life. Wander around the grounds, try the maze, look in the Château and stop for a crêpe at La Gloriette. I had a citron, sucré crêpe with a café crème and they were delicious. The man and woman that were serving were so nice. Alternatively, there is a restaurant serving food. Don't forget to take the obligatory photographs of the Château. Incidentally, the toilets at the entrance do not cater for many people. There ate two cubicles for men and three cubicles for women so plan ahead. There is a gift shop with a good selection. This was a great place to visit.

My absolute favourite of all the Chateau’s we visited in the Loire Valley. Firstly, the setting is tranquil and peaceful, until you see river actually flowing beneath the Chateau you don’t quite believe it. The gardens are beautiful (even in the rain) with all blooms in the colours of the suffragettes. I do wonder given the women involved in the history of the chateau if the colours of the Gardens were chosen specifically or if that is a pure coincidence. I like to believe it’s intentional. There is a long tree lined walk from the car park to the chateau which frames the entrance perfectly. Unlike other chateau’s (Chambord specifically) most rooms are maintained with furniture that appears original or positively replicas - even if that’s the case it looks authentic. The staff quarters and kitchens are a must see. I would put this Chateau on the top of your list when in the Loire Valley.

Chenonceau is an elegant and intimate castle to visit. I would recommend to dedicate a full day to enjoy the buildings, as well as the gardens, the wine cellar, and the art exhibit. The castle is extremely rich in history, it's a delight to enjoy its beauty, and the several phases of architectural additions. The rooms inside the castle can be smaller, but they offer an intimate experience. The decors are plentiful, and the seasonal decorations are exquisite. there is an abundance of tapestries, furniture, and paintings, as well as a small chapel. There is a lot of space in the gardens, and in the park, for a more quiet experience. I also recommend stopping by the wine cellar for a presentation on the vineyards of the castle, and those of the Loire valley.

Perfect day for a visit: everything was very fluid, booking online made it a lot easier I must say. Everyone working in the place is very nice and helpful. It was a pleasure! The castle and surrounding gardens as usual beautifully maintained. A must-see at least once in a lifetime.

This is the only chateau we needed advanced tickets. It is the most visited in the Loire Valley, the most commercial and the most organized with tours taking place all day. That being said, the furnishings were the best we saw representative of the Renaissance period. And oh, those tapestries - gorgeous

If you had to pick one Loire Chateau I would make it here. Chambord rivals it in a way but is a great lump without the maticulous restoration that this has seen and without such outstanding out buildings and gardens. Also the rooms have much original furniture and few replicas. There are magnificent bureaux and beds and the tapestries are huge. Even with loads of tourists it still can seem very calm. I would say take the head set on your tour. It was the best of all the Chateaux we have visited. Also this is not just about the Chateau over the Cher river. It is about some remarkable women who kept it going and a chocolate family who have treated it with the love it needs to make it what it is today. We were told this was 2 to 3 hours. It is much more. There is enough here for a full day visit. Parking is plentiful and free.