Ultimate 3-Day Fontainebleau Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Fontainebleau enchants with its magnificent royal château, lush ancient forests, and vibrant small-town charm just beyond Paris.

Main view of Fontainebleau

Day 1: Royal Heritage & Town Discoveries

Morning

Begin your journey at the iconic Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO-listed palace that once hosted French monarchs and dazzles with its Renaissance architecture, opulent interiors, and expansive gardens.

Château de Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau

Afternoon

Stroll through the beautifully landscaped Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau, where you can admire ornamental lakes, manicured flowerbeds, and historic sculptures in a serene setting.

Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau

Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau

Evening

Enjoy classic French cuisine at the cozy La Table des Maréchaux, a refined restaurant offering regional specialties and an elegant atmosphere, perfect for your first evening in town.

La Table des Maréchaux

La Table des Maréchaux

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Nature, Art, and Local Flavors

Morning

Head into the enchanting Forêt de Fontainebleau, one of France’s largest and most biodiverse forests, for a morning hike among ancient oaks, dramatic sandstone boulders, and peaceful trails.

Forêt de Fontainebleau

Forêt de Fontainebleau

Afternoon

Visit the charming Barbizon village, birthplace of the Barbizon School of painters, where you can explore artists’ studios, lovely galleries, and the Maison-Atelier Jean-François Millet.

Barbizon

Barbizon

Delve into art history at the Maison-Atelier Jean-François Millet, the preserved home and workshop of the famed painter, offering a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century artistic life.

Maison-Atelier Jean-François Millet

Maison-Atelier Jean-François Millet

Evening

Savor a relaxed dinner at Auberge Ganne, a historic inn-turned-restaurant in Barbizon, renowned for its rustic charm and delicious local fare.

Auberge Ganne

Auberge Ganne

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Markets, Culture & Riverside Relaxation

Morning

Experience local flavors at the bustling Marché de Fontainebleau, held in the town square, where you can browse fresh produce, regional cheeses, and artisanal pastries.

Marché de Fontainebleau

Marché de Fontainebleau

Afternoon

Visit the fascinating Musée Napoléonien, located within the château, and discover objects, documents, and art that trace Napoleon’s legacy in Fontainebleau.

Musée Napoléonien

Musée Napoléonien

Evening

Unwind with sunset views and drinks at the riverside Le Canoë Fontainebleau, a relaxed spot by the Loing River, perfect for reflecting on your adventure.

Le Canoë Fontainebleau

Le Canoë Fontainebleau

📍 Directions for Day 3

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