I've only read about the troves of people that go to the Palace of Versailles and it had deterred…read moreme from wanting to go there. We found Chateau de Fontainebleau as a great alternative that is less crowded and decided to go. This palace is MASSIVE. Actually, massive is still an understatement. The courtyard itself is the size of a small town and the gardens behind the palace are the size of a small city. Unfortunately, we arrived with only a 2-3 hours before closing so we had to rush through the majority of the palace without reading the descriptions just to be able to see as much as we could. Be aware that the ballroom closes earlier than the Chateau so if you are visiting towards closing, you may be diverted elsewhere and miss out on certain rooms. We were one of the last ones admitted to the ballroom before they closed and then continued our self guided tour after we left.

Great palace to visit in France. This place is a residence of king, meeting the emperor Napoleon,…read moreand source of inspiration and treasures. This palace built during 12th century as medieval palace. It has been through many kings. It was build bit by bit to current palace. The chateau contain building, museum, garden, and park. It is difficult to complete entire park. The building only open certain sectors. It is part of UNESCO world heritage site. The grand apartment hallway is beautiful and same as the library. The king and queen room is beautiful. There is very details museum for Napoleon. It includes the emperor campaign. The tent and room use by Napoleon. The collection includes the Marie Louise personal item and more. The palace is well decorated. Furnitures are look prestige. The garden is huge. But I think the garden is very bare.