France is a land of fairytale castles, from medieval fortresses to extravagant Renaissance châteaux. These historical landmarks offer a glimpse into the country’s royal past, architectural grandeur, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful places, France’s castles are a must-see.
Here’s a guide to some of the best castles in France that you absolutely need to visit.
1. Château de Versailles – The Epitome of Royal Luxury
Why Visit?
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous castles in the world and a symbol of absolute monarchy in France. Built by King Louis XIV, it is a masterpiece of opulence, with golden halls, grand gardens, and breathtaking fountains.
Highlights
- Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) – A magnificent ballroom with 357 mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and golden decorations.
- Gardens of Versailles – Over 800 hectares of perfectly manicured gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
- Grand Trianon & Petit Trianon – Smaller palaces where Marie Antoinette retreated for privacy.
Location
📍 Versailles (30 minutes from Paris)
Entry Fee
🎟️ Standard ticket: €19.50 (Gardens are free on non-fountain days)
2. Château de Chambord – The Jewel of the Loire Valley
Why Visit?
Château de Chambord is the largest and most impressive château in the Loire Valley. Built by King Francis I, it showcases a unique blend of French Renaissance and medieval architecture.
Highlights
- Double-Helix Staircase – Designed by Leonardo da Vinci, this stunning staircase allows two people to ascend and descend without crossing paths.
- Panoramic Rooftop Views – A breathtaking view of the château’s 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, and 83 staircases.
- Surrounding Forest – A massive hunting reserve, five times larger than Paris.
Location
📍 Loire Valley (2 hours from Paris)
Entry Fee
🎟️ €14
3. Château de Chenonceau – The Romantic Castle Over Water
Why Visit?
Often called the “Ladies’ Château”, Chenonceau is built over the Cher River and is one of France’s most picturesque castles. It has been shaped by powerful women, including Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers.
Highlights
- The Bridge Gallery – A long hall over the river, offering stunning reflections in the water.
- Lavish Interiors – Featuring Renaissance tapestries, antique furniture, and royal portraits.
- Beautiful Gardens – The Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers gardens are perfectly symmetrical and full of colorful flowers.
Location
📍 Loire Valley (2 hours from Paris)
Entry Fee
🎟️ €15
4. Château de Fontainebleau – A Royal Residence for Centuries
Why Visit?
One of the oldest and most historically significant castles in France, Château de Fontainebleau was home to French kings from the 12th to the 19th century.
Highlights
- Grand Apartments – Sumptuously decorated rooms once occupied by Napoleon, Louis XIV, and Francis I.
- Horseshoe Staircase – One of the château’s most iconic architectural features.
- Expansive Forest – Great for walking and picnicking, once used as a royal hunting ground.
Location
📍 Fontainebleau (1 hour from Paris)
Entry Fee
🎟️ €14
5. Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg – A Medieval Fortress in Alsace
Why Visit?
Perched high in the Vosges Mountains, this medieval fortress offers stunning panoramic views over Alsace, Germany, and the Black Forest.
Highlights
- Medieval Interiors – Explore stone towers, wooden drawbridges, and Gothic halls.
- Breathtaking Views – From the top, you can see across the Alsace region.
- Historic Weaponry – The château houses a collection of ancient armor and weapons.
Location
📍 Alsace (50 minutes from Strasbourg)
Entry Fee
🎟️ €9
6. Château de Pierrefonds – A Fairytale Castle
Why Visit?
If you love fairytales, Château de Pierrefonds is the perfect place. Originally a 13th-century fortress, it was restored in the 19th century to resemble a storybook castle.
Highlights
- Gothic Towers and Bridges – Straight out of a medieval fantasy.
- Underground Crypt – An eerie yet fascinating collection of medieval sculptures.
- Filming Location – Featured in the TV show “Merlin” and other period dramas.
Location
📍 Hauts-de-France (1.5 hours from Paris)
Entry Fee
🎟️ €8
7. Château de Mont-Saint-Michel – The Castle on the Sea
Why Visit?
One of the most breathtaking landmarks in France, Mont-Saint-Michel is an island fortress that looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel.
Highlights
- Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel – A stunning medieval monastery at the island’s peak.
- Tidal Views – The island is surrounded by water at high tide and sand at low tide.
- Charming Village – Wander through narrow medieval streets filled with shops and cafés.
Location
📍 Normandy (4 hours from Paris)
Entry Fee
🎟️ €11
8. Château d’If – The Legendary Prison Castle
Why Visit?
This island fortress off the coast of Marseille is famous as the prison setting in “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas.
Highlights
- Prison Cells – See the legendary cell of Edmond Dantès from the novel.
- 360-Degree Ocean Views – Spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and Marseille.
- Boat Ride to the Island – A scenic 15-minute ferry from Marseille’s Old Port.
Location
📍 Marseille, Provence
Entry Fee
🎟️ €6
Final Thoughts
France’s châteaux are more than just buildings; they are living pieces of history, filled with legends, artistic masterpieces, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you want to explore fairytale castles, medieval fortresses, or royal palaces, each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Which castle will you visit first? 🏰✨🇫🇷
