Carcassonne was settled as early as the 6th century BC and later became an important Roman town. It was fortified in the 4th century and was a strategic site in the Middle Ages. It took on its definitive shape in the 13th century with the king’s decision to construct the distinctive double-walled ramparts and extend the castle. The city was restored by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century and is a testimony to 1,000 years of military architecture and 2,600 years of history. See a 12-minute film combining 3-D images and close-up footage; walk along the galleries, the fortified walls and the north ramparts; discover the museum of masonry and many other attractions. Designated world heritage site by UNESCO. Open: > April to September: from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. > October to March: from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last admission 45 minutes before closing time. Closed: > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 8,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 5,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.5Towers and Ramparts of Aigues-Mortes(2.859 reviews) - Historic town situated between the canals and the marshes Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Castles
The fortified city of Aigues-Mortes was built in the 13th century on the order of Saint Louis to provide the kingdom of France with a port on the Mediterranean. The complex consists of 1,634 metres of ramparts flanked by twenty towers and one of the most splendid keeps in the architectural style of the Middle Ages, the tower of Constance, which was used as a prison for Protestants from the Cévennes region from 1685. Open: > 2nd May to 31st August: from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. > 1st September to 30th April: from 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Last admission 1 hour before closing time. Ticket office closed from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. (from 1st September to 30th April). Closed: > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 8 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 6,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groups (40€)See more..
4.0Château Royal de Collioure(1.249 reviews) - Great Castle in beautiful seaside town Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Castles
An 800-year-old château with great rampart walks, views, and mildly interesting exhibits on local history and contemporary art.See more..
4.5Forteresse de Salses(1.150 reviews) - Good guided tour. Monday: 10:00 AM - 12:45 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:15 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
Salses fortress was built between 1497 and 1504 by the Spaniards to protect their northern province of Roussillon which was finally conquered by France in 1642. Behind the defensive walls the complex fortress features buildings on three to six levels linked by a maze of corridors and walkways. The fort incorporates three independent sections: the living quarters, battlements and the keep. Open: > 1st April to 30th September: from 10.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. > 1st October to 31st March: from 10 am to 12.45 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5.15 p.m. Last admission 45 minutes before closing time. Closed: > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 8 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.0Chateau de Foix(1.095 reviews) - Good experience Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
Journey back to the days of chivalry ! From the heights of its rocky crag, Foix castle with its three towers and soaring walls offers exceptional views of the Pyrenees. Built in the year one thousand, it was originally a military fortress before being transformed into the home of the illustrious Counts of Foix such as Gaston Fébus, author of the 'Livre de la Chasse' (Book of the Hunt) among other works, and Henri IV who became King of France. It now houses the Ariège département museum: the bed of Henri IV is on display. The castle's various rooms are dedicated to the art of building in the Middle Ages, the history of the castle and of the Counts of Foix, as well as temporary exhibitions. Exhibitions • Gaston Fébus, Enlightened Prince of the Pyrenees. • The Universe of King Henri IV. • Andorra. Voyage to the Heart of the Pyrenees. • Into médiéval builder's secret.See more..
Great little town. When we arrived around 9.00 h., the town was (still) really quiet. Unfortunately, the church and the city walls open at 10.00 h. Parking costs € 4,00. The history of the templars is very interesting. Don’t forget to visit the other templar towns in the vicinity like La Cavalerie and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon.See more..
4.5Chateau de Peyrepertuse(1.029 reviews) - A very enjoyable guided visit Monday: 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Castles
Very enjoyable visit. I would recommend an hour and a half guided visit with a company called 'les visites épiques", if you understand French. You can find them on the castle website. Make sure you bring a hat, sun lotion, walking shoes and plenty of water.See more..
4.5Chateau Fort of Lourdes(1.008 reviews) - The natural and architectural beauty of Lourdes is astounding and the reason to visit not for the pilgrimage itself Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Castles • Art Museums • History Museums
Lourdes is in my top most beautiful towns in the world. The mountains surrounding the town combined with gorgeous cliffs a gorgeous crystal green river running through it and the phenomenal architecture is the reason to come I was blown away. I did not know it would be so beautiful1 It is in my top five most beautiful small towns in the world.See more..
4.5Chateau Comtal(943 reviews) - Don't book a tour: just go and do it: the audioguide is perfect Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Castles
After many years we came back and were not disappointed at all. The visit of the stunning Cité is a must in France, even in Europe. Now with the audioguide the visit is so easy as it never has been before: heeps of information and explanation, even taking pictures becomes easier. The best place to take a pic of all the Cité is the new bridge (Pont neuf), just a 10 minutes stroll from the Cité away. Go for a pic of your life in the early night or late afternoon.See more..
Amazing! Me and the misses visited the castle in April and we had a great day, The weather was stunning so the vieuws from the fort are even better. This place is so silent now but in the past its history was horrible and dark. Cathars burned at the stake etc. The weather needs to be good though otherwise you can better not go as the road up to the fort is not a walk in the park. Have fun!See more..
4.5Château de Cénevières(762 reviews) - Educational and very interesting tour of a family chateau Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Super panorama overlooking the Lot River Valley. Medieval castle from 8th, 13th and 16th century. Gardens and interior in a guided tour, quite often with a member of the owner family. Chapel, donjon, jail, renaissance paintings including Les Métamorphoses d'Ovide and views of ancient Constantinople.See more..
4.5Forteresse de Najac(583 reviews) - Beautiful Najac village. Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 1, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Its not all about the castle. The village is beautiful. Perched on a hill with wonderful views both sides. We used the car park in the village and took a steady walk towards the castle. Lovely narrow cobbled streets with interesting buildings along the way. Homes, shops and places to eat. A view of the castle almost all the way. Mostly downhill to start then upwards to the castle. We ended up at the Eglise Saint Jean. Impressive church inside and out. Once taken in the views we headed back finding other pathways to explore, sit and enjoy the views rather than visit the castle. A lovely lunchtime meal at L'insolite before returning to our car. Too many photos taken also. Well worth a visit.See more..
4.5Chateaux de Lastours(582 reviews) - Wonderful 4 towers of a 4 little ruined castles Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Castles
Chateaux de Lastours are 4 Cathar Castles located in Lastours, a little town in the South of France. It is a great ruined castle (in fact, they are 4 little ruined castles called Cabaret, Tour Regine, Surdespine and Querthineux), Three of them were built before 11th Century, and the last one (Tour Regine) was buil after 13th Century to cotrol better all the surroundings. If you can see all castles, you will do a little hike (about 15-20 minutes) to arrive to the first castle from the entrance and you see 4 wonderful stone towers. It is a grat hike to do with children. Really, views of the surroundings from every tower are excellent, and views from each to other towers are very nice, specially from a nearer view point, from where you can see clearly the disposition of 4 castles to defend land.See more..
3.5Remparts du Chateau(549 reviews) - Great Views Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
At the chateau, there are ramparts. The views from the ramparts are marvelous. Views of the gorge, view of the village.See more..
4.5Rennes le chateau(485 reviews) - Landscaped Village Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
We have lived at the nearby village of Montazels for the last 3 years and enjoy visiting this village. Much money has been spent on landscaping in the last two years on the village is now easy to navigate on foot. So beautiful and well worth a walk around visit.See more..
This impressive Château - as much a home as a fortified castle was the residence of a rich baronial family until 1715. Its towers, thick walls and domestic quarters illustrate its architectural development over the centuries. Towards the end of the 19th century the Chateau was bought and restored by opera singer Jean Moulierat who assembled an eclectic collection of furniture, tapestries, objects of religious art. Open: > 2nd May to 30th June: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. > 1st July to 31st August: from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. > 1st September to 30th April: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Last admission 1 hour before closing time. Closed: > Tuesdays from 1st October to 31st March. > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.5Chateau de Belcastel(393 reviews) - Great history and staff Monday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Castles
Built a thousand years ago on a gigantic rock, this magnificent fortress rises above one of the most beau-tiful villages in the Aveyron region of France. A self-guided tour, rich with historical information, leads visitors over the moat and throughout the castle and its grounds. Only recently was this private chateau, with its lush courtyards, medieval chapels, prison, and superb views, opened to the public. One tower suite, with modern amenities and luxurious accommodations, including a private pool, is available to book.See more..
4.5Chateau de Calmont d'Olt(256 reviews) - Great castle with a view Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Castles
A Medieval castle in the south of France that is being rebuilt. During the summer season you can experience live shows with the firing of the trebuchet, the canon and the archery tournament. In low-season the castle can be visited without a guide. Numerous games will challenge your friends and family all throughout the site !See more..
After visiting Penne earlier in the day, Bruniquel was our next stop. This village maintains its history but it has been very well cared for. We parked our car at the bottom of the village and began the steep climb up the main street. Explore the side streets as you go. Near the top there is a clock tower where the walk continues through an archway up to the castle. There is a lovely garden at the top. Wonderful views from outside the castle walls looking over the River Aveyron. Time didn't allow us to visit the castle this time but it was lovely to explore the street. So full of colour from plants.See more..
We 'popped' in here on the way to Toulouse airport from Condom. Castle sits in a beautiful setting above a picturesque village. It was not at all busy. Highlight is the "echo " room where you can hear a whisper from corner to corner.The castle is mid restoration and there is clearly a lot more to be done. The interesting thing was an exhibition of paintings and sketches by Anne Bachelier( on until end of September2016) a large and well presented exhibition. You could buy some prints and art books in the shop as well as general books on castles and local produce - jams, honey, wines and handmade jewellery. There was a little restaurant tight by the castle if you are visiting at lunchtime ( we weren't). Very photogenic view around the village which is also worth a stroll around.See more..
4.5Château de Puilaurens(230 reviews) - Château de Puilaurens Temporarily closed - Closed until Mar 24, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Strategically placed at 697m altitude on Mont Ardu, the Puilaurens castle rises up against the rocky overhang that dominates the village of Puilaurens, in the middle of an evergreen forest. During four centuries it was the southern-most fortress in France and locked access to the Fenouilledes. From the entrance, we can see the first stones! At the end of the road, the impressive chicane staircase rises up to the castle’s entrance doors. Impatient to discover the inside of the castle? Walk past the Murder Hole and the main court is unveiled. The surrounding walls and its crenels, the horseshoe towers are filled with history, marked by time… The adaptation of this fortress to its steep landscape show architectural prowess. It makes for an impressive reference point within the remarkable and preserved landscape.Puilauren's castle is a medieval fortress, mainly built in the middle of the XIIIth century, with some changes dating back to the XVIIth century.See more..
4.5Chateau Foucaud et parc(223 reviews) - A brilliant evening Monday: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Castles • Parks
I had read last year's reviews and was a little concerned about possible long queues. In the event it was fine. There was a queue at the gate when we arrived but it was before the opening time. Once the gates opened we moved swiftly through. Security was very present but polite. The lanternes were wonderful and there were a few food and drink stalls available if you needed refreshments. We were handed a programme as we arrived and it could be useful to be able to download that beforehand with your tickets. I had bought ours online a few weeks previously. We were in a hotel so walked to the venue so I can't comment on the parking and navettes. Directions from the centre ville are very evident and so easy to follow. Afterwards there were food options under marquees in the central square although we found a nearby restaurant. A lovely experience all roundSee more..
4.0Castelnau-de-Montmiral(215 reviews) - Interesting morning Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
This is a small town in the Tarn. A couple of hours does it but interesting. Architecture is old and a small market on Tuesday morning.See more..
4.5Chateau de Penne(212 reviews) - Breathtaking Monday: Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
The views here are amazing, and surprisingly not that much of a climb to achieve, we arrived later on in the day when the sun was low which cast a lovely light around the valleys below. We then stopped at the café back down the hill, where the terrace overhanging's and overlooks the valley too, this was really special and again prices like the rest of France food out were good. If you are in the region or stopping near St Antonin Noble Val make sure you do not miss this place.See more..
4.5Château de Peyrelade(201 reviews) - Great castle, view and set-up Spent 1-2 hours Castles
An amazing medieval fortress at the entrance of the Tarn Gorges ! Built on a rock overlooking the Tarn valley, Peyrelade castle (XII-XVI c.) was one of the most important fortresses of Rouergue during the Middle-Ages. Through a scenography (dutsh, german, english, spanish), a guided tour or an app in english or smartphones and pads, discover this castle under restoration for nearly 40 years : surrounding walls and walk-way recently opened to visitors, vaulted halls, drawbridge, and the incredible rock-tower that offers spectacular views of the surroundings. In summer, medieval entertainment on tuesday and wednesday and for kids upon reservation on thursday.See more..
4.5Chateau de Montal(183 reviews) - A renaissance gem deserving a wider audience Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Built in 1519 by Jeanne de Balsac, in honour of her son, Robert de Montal, the Château of Montal echoes the finest châteaux in the Loire Valley. From 1879, it fell into decline, its prestigious pieces however being acquired by museums and private collections throughout the world. Fortunately, the Château was saved in 1908 thanks to the untiring efforts of Monsieur Fenaille who gradually restored the Château of Montal to its former splendours. Open: > 2nd January to 30th April and from 1st September to 31st December: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. > 2nd May to 31st August: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. Last admission 45 min before closing time. Closed: > Mondays and Tuesdays from 2nd January to 31st March and from 1st October to 31st December. > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.0Chateau de Mauriac(181 reviews) - Unforgettable time in a medieval castle Monday: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
Château fort templier remanié à la renaissance situé en plein vignoble de Gaillac et entièrement restauré par le peintre bistes. Classé parmi les 50 plus belles demeures de France.See more..
4.0Château de La Baume(173 reviews) - very nice castle indeed Spent 1-2 hours Castles
In the middle of the country, this is not Versailles but a very interesting French rural castle!!! Not far from the motorway you can easily have a short break there!!!See more..
4.5La Garde Guerin(148 reviews) - Well preserved rocky village Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles • Churches & Cathedrals
We came to this village as it had been tagged as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Beautiful it is not - in my view - but it is a fascinating, amazingly well preserved 12th century stone village. It was strategically important for its position on the route between the Massif Central and the Mediterranean. A lookout tower, the church and many houses are in good condition in spite of damage wrought in its troubled past. The winds blow fiercely here and the terrain is rocky and bleak.See more..
The only part remaining of the original medieval castle is the tower of Simon de Montfort to which the existing forecastle was added in the 14th century. The main body, which was built between 1530 and 1545 in the style of the Italian Renaissance, boasts façades decorated with sculptures which will undoubtedly be of special interest to the visitor. The various rooms are enriched by their antique furnishings. Open: > 1st February to 31st March: from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. > 1st April to 30th April: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. > 2nd May to 30th June: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. > 1st July to 31st August: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. > 1st September to 31st October: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. > 2nd to 30th November: from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. > 1st December to 31st January: upon appointment. Last admission 45 minutes before closing time. Closed: > Mondays from 1st September to 30th June. > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 5,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.5Chateau de Brousse le Chateau(137 reviews) - There's definitely something about this whole place Spent < 1 hour Castles
We left from Toulouse at around 9am and it took us roughly 2 hours drive from to reach the place. The landscape of Aveyron region has always tempted me to come back here again and again. The greenery and heritage of especially around the Château is magnificent. The visit to the church close to the Château made all 5 of us feel very calm and pleasant. After which we made our picnic at the banks of the river flowing flawlessly there. Then at 14:00 we visited the historical Château and gained insights about this special place. We had our evening coffee at a beautiful brasserie close by and were in a big dilemma whether to leave or not from this attractive place. Finally, since we had planned for just a day trip, we arrived back in Toulouse by 19:00. I highly recommend you all to spend sometime at this place which would definitely leave you more calmer and acknowledge the nature around this place.See more..
5.0Chateau de Chambert(127 reviews) - Amazing flavors at this new restaurant Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards • Castles
The largest Organic vineyard in Cahors - 65Ha in Biodynamics. Free tasting, guided tours, tasting classes, Wine bar, food and more (check web site). Chateau de Chambert wines are produced on the fine terroirs of the high hills of the Cahors AOC Appelation of south-west France. Since 1690, Chambert's Malbec wines have been enjoyed by kings, Russian tzars and French officers in Bordeaux. Philippe Lejeune produces fine and elegant terroir driven wines.See more..
4.5Castle of Montaigut(116 reviews) - Sauvegarde réussie d’un site admirable ! Castles
Medieval forteress from 10th century. The visit included 13 rooms with fournitures, the access to the panoramic terrasse and english explanitions. Here you will discover how people used to live in middle-age, by visiting bedrooms, the kitchen, the jail, ...Special families: children can dress as knight & princess, games in english in the castle (from 3 to 12 years old). Every children win a diploma. We also offer a game around the castle, the enchanted door, that last 1h. Children choose a present behind the magic door.See more..
4.5Tour de Termes d'Armagnac(74 reviews) - Nice visit and great view at the top Monday: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles • History Museums
I went to visit the tower with my partner's family (American) and my family (French). The audio tour is in French but explanations in English are also available if you ask and if you don't mind reading. The tower visit was cheap (5 or 6 euros), nice setup re-enacting scenes from the past and the view at the top is worth climbing the stairs!See more..
4.5Château de Caumont(54 reviews) - Great visit, great experience Castles
I visited this beautiful castle with my family in August 2022. The owner made us the tour. He speaks pretty well English, although the tour was in French, he explained to us and translated. We spent a great time in the beautiful salons and the rooms. The owner is a charming French gentleman. We highly recommend the tour. They also organize private events in the nice park, such as weedings in the romantic surroundings and the large ballroom.See more..
