Châteaux are large, fortified manor houses, and there are plenty to choose from in the Loire Valley. You can visit them by bus or train, and most are within an hour’s travel of the city. Here are ten of the best châteaux to see near Paris.
1. Château de Vincennes
Château de Vincennes is a beautiful castle located just outside of Paris, France. The castle dates back to the 14th century and was once used as a royal residence. Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, which include a large park and gardens.
They can also tour the inside of the castle, which features several important historical artifacts. In addition to its historical significance, Château de Vincennes is also known for its stunning architecture. The castle’s exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and detailed stonework, while the interior features beautiful paintings and tapestries. Whether you’re interested in history or architecture, Château de Vincennes is definitely worth a visit.
How to get to Château de Vincennes:
Located just outside of Paris, the Château de Vincennes is a beautiful castle that is well worth a visit. While it may seem daunting to get there, it is actually quite easy. The best way to get to the Château de Vincennes is by taking the RER A train from Paris. The RER A train goes directly to the Vincennes station, which is just a short walk from the castle.
Once you exit the station, simply follow the signs to the castle. You can also take the bus, but it takes longer and can be more difficult to navigate. Overall, taking the train is by far the best option.
Address: Av. de Paris, 94300 Vincennes, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Château de Fontainebleau
Château de Fontainebleau is a beautiful palace located just outside of Paris, France. The palace was built in the 16th century and was the home of many French kings and queens. Today, the palace is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.
The palace grounds are sprawling and contain many different gardens, fountains, and sculptures. Visitors can also explore the inside of the palace, which is filled with furniture, tapestries, and paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries. Overall, Château de Fontainebleau is an incredibly beautiful and historic palace that is definitely worth a visit.
How to get to Château de Fontainebleau :
Visitors can explore more than 1,500 rooms, including the stunning apartments of Napoleon III, and stroll through the manicured gardens. Best of all, the castle is easily accessible by train from Paris. Simply take the RER D Line from Gare du Nord station to Fontainebleau-Avon, and you’ll be there in less than an hour. So don’t miss out on this must-see attraction during your next trip to Paris.
Address: 77300 Fontainebleau, France
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3. Château de Pierrefonds
Château de Pierrefonds is a ruined castle located in the Oise department of northern France. The castle was built in the 14th century by Charles V of France, and it was used as a royal residence until the 16th century. In 1789, the castle was damaged during the French Revolution, and it has been in ruins ever since. Despite its condition, Château de Pierrefonds remains an impressive structure, and it is now a popular tourist destination.
The castle is surrounded by a moat, and its striking keep is one of the most recognizable features. Visitors can also explore the castle’s dungeons, chapel, and Great Hall, which houses a collection of medieval weapons and armor. With its rich history and fascinating architecture, Château de Pierrefonds is well worth a visit.
How to get to Château de Pierrefonds:
The Château de Pierrefonds is a beautifully preserved castle in the heart of France. Located just outside of Paris, the castle is easily accessible by car or train. If you’re coming from Paris, take the RER train line B to Saint-Denis and then transfer to the local bus line 10. The journey takes about an hour and a half in total. Once you arrive in Pierrefonds, you’ll be able to explore the castle grounds and learn about its history. The castle is open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm, and admission is only 10 euros for adults. So whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique day trip, be sure to add the Château de Pierrefonds to your itinerary.
Address: Rue Viollet le Duc, 60350 Pierrefonds, France
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4. Château d’Amboise
Château d’Amboise is located in the heart of the Loire Valley in France. The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the Loire River and the town of Amboise. It was built in the 15th century by Charles VIII of France and was later expanded by his successor, Louis XII.
The château reflects a blend of French and Italian Renaissance styles. It features grandiose state apartments, as well as more intimate royal chambers. The château also has a chapel where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. Château d’Amboise is one of the most beautiful castles in France and is definitely worth a visit!
How to get to Château d’Amboise:
The castle is located just outside of the town of Amboise, and there are several ways to get there. If you’re driving, simply follow the signs from the town center. If you’re taking public transportation, there are buses that leave regularly from the Amboise train station. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a hot air balloon!
Address: Mnt de l’Emir Abd el Kader, 37400 Amboise, France
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5. Château du Clos Lucé
Château du Clos Lucé is located in the town of Amboise in the Loire Valley region of France. The castle was built in 1471 and served as a royal residence for King Charles VIII. It is best known as the final home of Leonardo da Vinci, who died there in 1519. Today, the castle is open to the public and houses a museum dedicated to the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci.
Visitors can see replicas of some of his most famous paintings, as well as original models of his inventions. The castle grounds are also home to a beautiful garden, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Château du Clos Lucé is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture and a must-see for any history lover.
How to get to Château du Clos Lucé:
Château du Clos Lucé is a must-see for anyone visiting the Loire Valley. Located just a short drive from the city of Tours, it is an easy day trip from Paris. And, once you arrive, you will be transported back in time to the Renaissance – the era in which Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked. The castle has been meticulously restored to its former glory, and the grounds are full of beautiful flowers and greenery. Best of all, there are interactive exhibits throughout the castle that bring Leonardo’s inventions to life. So, if you are looking for a unique and fascinating historical experience, be sure to add Château du Clos Lucé to your travel itinerary.
Address: 2 Rue du Clos Lucé, 37400 Amboise, France
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6. Chenonceaux Castle
Chenonceau Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in France. It was built in the 16th century and has been home to many noble families over the years. The castle is situated on the River Cher, and its defining feature is its five-arched bridge, which spans the river.
The castle has a long history, and it has been featured in many famous paintings, including those by Claude Monet. Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its beautiful gardens and grand rooms. Chenonceau Castle is a truly magical place, and it is well worth a visit.
How to get to Chenonceaux Castle:
Chenonceau Castle is one of the most beautiful and historic castles in France. It is located in the Loire Valley, about two hours from Paris. The easiest way to get there is by car or train. If you are taking the train, the closest station is St-Pierre-des-Corps, which is about a 15-minute drive from the castle. There is also a bus that goes from St-Pierre-des-Corps to Chenonceaux, but it only runs once a day. If you are driving, take the A10 motorway and exit at exit 36. Then follow the signs to Chenonceau Castle. Once you arrive, you will be able to see why this castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
Address: 37150 Chenonceaux, France
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7. Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle
Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture. Located in the Loire Valley, the castle was built in the 15th century by order of King Louis XI. The exterior of the castle is decorated with ornate carvings and statues, while the interior features sumptuous tapestries and paintings. In addition to its beautiful architecture, Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle is also known for its Gardens.
Covering more than 50 acres, the gardens feature a variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs, as well as several fountains and sculptures. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, or take a boat ride on the lake. Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle is a must-see for anyone interested in French history or architecture.
How to get to Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle:
Getting to Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle is easy. The castle is located about an hour south of Paris by car, and there are also trains that run from Paris to Chaumont-sur-Loire. Once you arrive in Chaumont-sur-Loire, it’s a short walk up to the castle. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring the castle grounds and taking in the incredible views. You won’t be disappointed!
Address: 41150 Chaumont-sur-Loire, France
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8. Blois Castle
A visit to the Loire Valley in France is not complete without a stop at the magnificent Château de Blois. Nestled along the banks of the Loire River, this castle has been home to French royalty for centuries. Today, it is open to the public, and visitors can explore the sprawling grounds and grandiose rooms that once served as a backdrop to royal pageantry.
The castle also houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts, making it a truly fascinating place to explore. So whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a stunning place to take in the sights of the Loire Valley, be sure to add the Château de Blois to your travel itinerary.
How to get to Blois Castle:
To get to Blois Castle, you’ll first need to travel to the town of Blois. The easiest way to do this is by taking a train from Paris. Once you arrive in Blois, the castle is just a short walk from the train station. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Paris or rent a car and drive. Whichever method you choose, getting to Blois Castle is easy and convenient.
Address: Blois Castle 6 Pl. du Château, 41000 Blois, France
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9. Chinon Castle
Chinon Castle is one of the most beautiful and historic castles in all of France. It is located in the city of Chinon, which is situated on the banks of the River Vienne, about halfway between Tours and Poitiers. The castle was founded in the early 11th century by Count Geoffrey II of Anjou, and it has been used as a royal residence, a prison, and a stronghold over the centuries.
The castle played an important role during the Hundred Years’ War between France and England, serving as a stronghold for the French kings. Today, Chinon Castle is a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to explore its history and beauty.
How to get to Chinon Castle:
To reach Chinon Castle, take the D751 highway from Tours. After about 50 kilometers, you will reach Chinon. Follow the signs to Centre Ville and then look for signs pointing to the Château. There is a large parking lot near the castle, making it easy to visit by car. You can also reach Chinon by train; there is a station located just a few minutes’ walk from the castle.
From Paris, you can take a direct train to St-Pierre-des-Corps station, which is located just a short distance from Chinon. From there, it is an easy walk or bike ride to the castle. With its delightful setting and rich history, Chinon Castle is definitely worth a visit.
Address: 2 Rue du Château, 37500 Chinon, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
10. Château de Tours
Tours Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting France. The castle is situated in the city of Tours, in the Loire Valley. It was built in the 12th century by Count Geoffrey V of Anjou, and it has been meticulously preserved. The castle is open to the public, and there are interactive exhibits that help visitors to understand the castle’s history.
The tours are conducted in English, and they are very informative. The castle also has a beautiful garden, which is perfect for a picnic lunch. Tours Castle is a great place to learn about the history of France, and it is also a beautiful and peaceful place to spend a day.
How to get to Château de Tours:
The easiest way to get to the castle is by taking the bus from the city center. The bus will drop you off at the base of the hill, and from there it is a short walk to the castle entrance. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also take the stairs up to the castle. There are a total of 500 steps, but the view from the top is definitely worth it. Once you reach the top, you will be able to see the entire city of Tours spread out before you.
Address: 25 Av. André Malraux, 37000 Tours, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
In conclusion
The 10 châteaux listed in this blog provide a fascinating glimpse into French history and architecture. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a beautiful place to take in the sights, these castles are well worth a visit. So be sure to add them to your travel itinerary!
