Château de Pierrefonds, visit, schedule, tickets

Name: Hotel de Harlay
Address: 3 rue de Harlay 0344230150 contact@hotel-compiegne.net, Compiègne, 60200, FR
Telephone: +33344230150
Price range: $$

A castle that makes you look up, and immediately gives you an air of vacation.

A castle with a "wow" effect

Château de Pierrefonds, the must-see near Compiègne

At the edge of the Compiègne forest, the Château de Pierrefonds is striking for its fairytale silhouette. Built in the late 14th century for Louis d’Orléans and dismantled in the 17th century, it was reborn in the 19th century when Napoleon III commissioned Eugène Viollet-le-Duc to rebuild it.

The result is more than a simple restoration: it’s a spectacular vision of the Middle Ages, designed to impress. Between towers, ramparts and vast interior volumes, the visit is as much a feast for the eyes as for the imagination.

A true heritage interlude

Why visit Pierrefonds during your stay

Because Pierrefonds combines everything you’d expect from a great outing: an iconic monument, a strong history, and a tour unlike any other.

You move from the main courtyard to the chapel, from the monumental halls to the cellars, and then to the park for a breath of fresh air. And above all, you leave with a rare sensation: that of having “seen something”, not just ticked off a visit. It’s the ideal activity if you want to mark a weekend in Compiègne, as a couple, with family or friends.

Landmarks that make your visit easier

Practical information, opening hours, access, visits

Opening hours: from September to April, the château is generally open from 10am to 5:30pm; from May to early September, from 9:30am to 6pm (last entrance one hour before closing time).

On-site guided tours are offered on certain days (duration approx. 1 hr.): registration at reception, no advance booking required. The ticket gives access to the monument and its grounds. Tip: plan to arrive early in the day or mid-afternoon to take full advantage of the park and views.

Sleep peacefully, stay connected

17 rooms, one idea: your comfort

Spacious, air-conditioned rooms. Plush bedding, private bathroom, flat-screen TV, minibar and reliable wifi.

Whether you’ve come for a night in between appointments, a weekend away for two, or a family getaway, you can put your things down and relax. It’s simple: at Compiègne, you visit better when you sleep well.

The double

La single

The triple

The family

Everything you need to know before visiting Château de Pierrefonds

The answers before you even ask the question

How long will the tour take?

Allow 1h30 to 2h to visit the castle properly, and add more time if you want to enjoy the park and viewpoints.

What are the château's opening hours?

Prices vary according to season: generally 10am-5.30pm from September to April, and 9.30am-6pm from May to early September, with last access one hour before closing time.

Do you offer guided tours?

Yes. Guided tours depart at fixed times (duration approx. 1h). Please register at reception on the day, without booking.

Does the ticket include access to the park?

Yes. The ticket gives access to both the monument and the park, so you can extend your visit outdoors.

Is Pierrefonds a good family outing?

Yes. The “château fort” aspect is very appealing, and the visit can easily be combined with a break in the park to give everyone a breather.

Spectacular fortress

Imperial history

Immersive tour

Simple getaway