France is an absolutely beautiful country to explore. With all the incredible places in Paris to see, beautiful spots in Provence and beautiful regions like Brittany, France has it all. This is even more true when it comes to the iconic chateaus and best castles in France that are dotted all across the country.
Over the years, we’ve explored lots of regions in France and love all the incredible chateaus, palaces and castles there are dotted across the country.
Best of all, it doesn’t matter what region of France you’re visiting; you’ll be able to take a gander at a fair few castles along your trip. So, to help you find some of the best casltes in France, we’ve detailed our very favourite that we’ve loved visiting.
Take a look, below, at the best castles in France to visit. Have the best trip!
1.) Peyrelade Castle (Château de Peyrelade)
Precariously perched on top of a dramatic rock in the town of Rivière-sur-Tarn, Castle Peyrelade is iconic to see. It’s absolutely stunning to see and one of the best castles in France to visit if you’re travelling from Montpellier, north towards the city of Clermont-Ferrand
A beautiful place to explore about 40km southeast of Rodez. Although ruined, it still provides a breathtaking backdrop over a pretty town in the French countryside.
Once here, make sure to see the dramatic Tower of Peyrelade Castle itself. It stands upon the rocks overlooking the valley and is so impressive.
Just remember, Peyrelade Castle opens between June to September. It’s closed at other times of the year and can’t be visited.
Read more: Best things to do in the north of France
2.) Château de Chenonceau
Easily one of the best castles in France to visit, Château de Chenonceau is a stunning spot to see whilst exploring the wider Loire Valley.
The 16th-century castle, or Chateau, is stunning and spans the River Cher can be followed for a winder road trip around the Loire Valley. Of course, you’re going to explore the stunning buildings, but make sure to also see the Garden of Diane de Poitiers. It’s stunning.
Don’t forget to visit some of the historic towns of Orléans and Tours which are all close by. It’s well worth stopping, at least for a few days in the Loire Valley.
Read more: Best things to do in the north of France
3.) Château de Chambord
One of France’s most iconic castles, Château de Chambord is a dramatic chateau built in a French Renaissance style. It’s stunning and is absolutely iconic to see whilst you visit France.
Now, unlike some of the medieval castles of England, Château de Chambord is so well preserved, with over 500 years of history kept within its walls.
Just be sure to plan at least half a day to get a true feeling of this place. Afterwards, head over to the nearby city of Orléans which is a great place to stay overnight. It makes your visit to one of the best castles in France all nice and easy.
Read more: Best things to do in the South of France
4.) Château Gaillard
This 12th-century castle is situated roughly 50 miles north of Paris near the town of Rouen and easily be found by car whilst driving through France.
Now, for me, what makes this place so special is the panoramic views and lush green countryside that blankets northern France around this region.
Yes, Château Gaillard is mainly ruined but it’s still one of the best castles in France to see that’s unique, compared to the Renaissance-style chateaus often seen in the Loire Valley or Bordeaux.
5.) Château de Villandry
The unbelievably grand Château de Villandry is a picture-perfect place to explore when in the region around Tours.
Once here, don’t forget to take some time to explore the ornate gardens that are still maintained to this very day. They are stunning and well worth taking a gander around.
Oh, and don’t forget to pop into Les Grottes Pétrifiantes which are really close by. They are so unique and epic to see.
Read more: Best things to do in the South of France
6.) Château de Foix
Situated in the heart of Foix, Château de Foix is one of the best castles in France to visit as you drive south from Toulouse.
Now, there’s said to have been a fortification on this site for over 1,300 years; making this one of the oldest castles to remain in France. It’s incredible to see and worth the stopping point for a good few hours of exploring.
Oh, and don’t forget, you get some absolutely fantastic views from the castle itself. They’re spectacular.
Read more: Best things to do in the South of France
7.) Castle of Falaise
Arguably one of Frances’s most famous castles, the Castle of Falaise was the birthplace of William The Conqueror. You know, that guy that ended up conquering England in 1066. sound familiar?
Set yourself around 3 hours to take a tour and learn all about the historic importance of the Castle of Falaise. Just be sure to check out the interactive tour (that’s also available in English). It’s worth it to learn more about the history of this site.
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