Touring the most beautiful castles near Paris

The origins of the Château de Fontainebleau, located southeast of Paris in Seine-et-Marne, date back to the medieval period. Visitors are invited to experience more than 800 years of history when they explore the beautifully furnished home of France’s royalty, who lived there from the twelfth to the nineteenth century. Captivated by the impressive landscape, Francis I of France rebuilt Château de Fontainebleau turning it into an Italianate palace. Then thanks to the monarchs who succeeded him, from Henri IV to Louis XVI, four courtyards, three gardens and a park were added to complete the estate.
During your trip, join one of the guided tours, taking you from the Imperial Theatre to the Small Apartments, led by experts who will be delighted to share their knowledge. The Château de Fontainebleau is open every day of the year except 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. The courtyards, gardens and park are open every day and free to enter.

Visit online: Château de Fontainebleau

A visit to Château de Rambouillet is a step back in time. Many great figures have stayed at the Château, in the south of Yvelines, from the great kings of France to Presidents of the Republic. And, you’ll easily understand why during your visit. Stand in the famous Presidents' dining room, which played host to the first G6 summit in 1975 and many other historical moments. Take a stroll around the formal geometric-style gardens. Admire the estate from different angles and explore it by bicycle, electric car, or canal boat. Visit Château de Rambouillet any day of the year except 1 January, 1 May and 25 December.

Did you know? Château de Rambouillet is also home to two iconic monuments, the Dairy of Queen Marie-Antoinette and the cottage with shells.

Visit online: Château de Rambouillet

Guarding the capital is the Château de Vincennes, one of the greatest examples of medieval architecture. Home to the French monarchy until the seventeenth century, this fortress brings together royal apartments, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the fourteenth century keep – the highest of its kind in Europe – which served as a prison for more than 300 years. The Château de Vincennes is also famous for its majestic boulevard, Esplanade Saint-Louis, which hosts events year-round. The château is open to the public every day except 1 January, 1 May 25 and December. If Sainte-Chapelle, which houses relics of the Passion of Christ, is on your must-see list, we recommend going early in the morning or late afternoon as it’s closed over lunch.

Visit online: Château de Vincennes

Just outside of Paris, to the southwest, awaits the wonderful regional natural park of the Chevreuse Valley, home to the charming Château de Breteuil. During your visit, learn about the history of the Le Jaya family, brought to life by 50 enchanting wax figures created by the Grévin Museum. And that's not all, inside the château’s old buildings, you’ll find eight of Perrault’s classic fairytales, staged for everyone to enjoy.

The Château de Breteuil and its gardens are open all year round. Guided tours are possible from 2 pm on weekdays and 11 am on Sundays, as well as on public holidays and during school holidays in the Paris region. If you’re visiting as a family, we recommend taking advantage of the complimentary guided tours available on weekends. Plus, kids can enjoy listening to Perrault’s classic fairytales, before getting lost in the maze of the orangery.

Visit online: Château de Breteuil

Located in the Brie region, the Château de Champs-sur-Marne, displays the characteristic architecture of eighteen-century countryside holiday homes. Its sumptuous decor won’t leave you indifferent; with no less than 900 collection pieces, the Château de Champs-sur-Marne is one of the most beautifully furnished castles around Paris. Plan a trip with family or friends, alongside one of the many exhibitions and conferences hosted within the castle walls. The Château de Champs-sur-Marne is open every day until 5 pm from October to May and until 6 pm from June to September, whilst its 85-hectare park closes just 20 minutes later. It’s closed to the public on 1 January, 1 May, and 25 December.

Visit online: Château de Champs-sur-Marne

The famous Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, located southeast of Paris, owes its existence to an illustrious figure: Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV's superintendent. Said to have inspired the Palace of Versailles, a visit to this majestic seventeenth-century masterpiece is guaranteed to enchant you. Not to forget the beautiful landscaping by the renowned gardener André Le Nôtre, which went on to establish the foundations of French formal gardens.

The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte offers a unique cultural programme punctuated by spectacular events, immersive tours and projections. Among them, we suggest that you visit during one of the candlelit evenings (on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer months) or Grand Siècle Day, a period costume day that takes you back to the seventeenth-century (in June): two unforgettable experiences that will enhance your visit.

Visit online: Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Between Paris and Versailles lies the Château de Maisons-Laffitte an architectural masterpiece that embodies many of the characteristics of French classicism. Built by the Parisian architect François Mansart, it’s considered one of the most splendid mansions of its time, with symmetry, balance and elegance at the heart of its design. It’s well worth devoting part of your day to the château's magnificent gardens, recently restored to their former glory. Located in the Yvelines near Paris, the Château de Maisons-Laffitte is easily accessible by car and the RER, line L from Saint-Lazare station.

Visit online: Château de Maisons-Laffitte

---

All these castles are within easy reach of La Vallée Village, with good connections by road and rail. To help you plan your visit, take a look at our curation of the best hotels and attractions on our doorstep.