If you’re visiting Paris and want to see a castle, but want something close, Chateau de Vincennes is the perfect place to visit. It’s an amazing place for families to explore and discover a fully intact medieval castle. A while a visit to Chateau de Vincennes is a trip into the past with tremendous atmosphere, is Chateau de Vincennes worth visiting?
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Is Chateau de Vincennes Worth A Visit?
Yes, Château de Vincennes is truly worth visiting. It’s very big, well-preserved, and offers a real taste of medieval history with an imposing keep, drawbridge, and moat. You can explore freely without massive crowds, ideal for families with kids who love to roam. Its convenient Metro access, tranquil setting, and budget-friendly entry make this often-overlooked gem an enjoyable, memorable alternative to more famous Parisian landmarks.
A Brief History
The origins of Chateau de Vincennes begin in 1150 with the construction of a hunting lodge. Over the years the structure was added on to and enlarged until it became the massive structure that it is today.
It has been the site of royal weddings, a prison, an arsenal, and military headquarters. Chateau de Vincennes was previously also the seat of French power. This was the case until the completion of the construction of the Palace of Versailles.
The Chateau has been abandoned at times over the years. It has even sustained significant damage in World War II during the attempt to defend France. It has since been repaired and restored to its former glory.
Why Visit Chateau de Vincennes?
Historical Significance and Medieval Architecture
Château de Vincennes immerses families in medieval history. With its towering keep, drawbridge, and moat, it feels like a real-life fairy tale fortress.
The well-preserved architecture reveals the ingenuity of medieval design, offering a captivating experience for all ages. Exploring its grounds transports visitors back in time, igniting imaginations and providing a unique glimpse into France’s storied past.
Well-Preserved Yet Spacious Environment
The castle’s open, unfurnished interiors invite exploration and creativity. Without furniture, families can appreciate its architectural details while imagining life during medieval times.
The spaciousness makes it easy for kids to roam freely, creating a fun and stress-free visit. Château de Vincennes provides a sense of discovery at every turn, making it a standout destination for families.
Family-Friendly Exploration
Château de Vincennes is perfect for families seeking an engaging experience. Its empty halls, winding staircases, and hidden rooms offer an adventurous setting for kids to explore.
Parents can relax, knowing the environment is safe and welcoming. The castle’s design encourages curiosity and play, creating memorable moments for children and adults alike while sparking a love for history.
Peaceful and Uncrowded Experience
Unlike many Paris attractions, Château de Vincennes is rarely crowded. Families can enjoy a tranquil visit, wandering through its grounds at a relaxed pace.
The calm atmosphere makes it easy to appreciate the castle’s beauty and history without feeling rushed. This serene setting provides an ideal escape from the busier tourist spots in Paris, ensuring a more enjoyable outing.
Educational Value
Château de Vincennes combines fun with learning. Informational displays and occasional exhibits enrich the experience, offering insights into medieval architecture and history.
Kids can see firsthand how castles were designed for protection, sparking their curiosity about the past. Parents can share stories of knights and kings, turning the visit into an engaging history lesson the whole family will enjoy.
Accessibility
Conveniently located near central Paris, Château de Vincennes is easy to reach via the Metro. Its close proximity makes it a simple, stress-free addition to any itinerary.
Families will appreciate the ease of navigating the site, which accommodates visitors of all ages. This accessibility makes it an excellent option for a family-friendly outing, especially for those seeking a quick escape from the city.
Surrounding Green Spaces
Adjacent to the castle, the Bois de Vincennes offers a peaceful retreat. Families can extend their visit by enjoying a picnic, walking trails, or boating on the lake.
The park provides plenty of space for kids to play and for parents to unwind. Combining the castle visit with the park creates a perfect balance of history, relaxation, and outdoor fun.
Photographic Opportunities
Château de Vincennes provides stunning backdrops for family photos. Its moat, towers, and medieval architecture create picture-perfect moments.
Capture kids exploring the castle’s nooks and crannies or take posed shots against its historic façade. These photos will preserve the adventure and serve as lasting memories of your family’s time in Paris, blending history and fun in every frame.
Unique Contrast to Other Parisian Attractions
Château de Vincennes offers a refreshing contrast to Paris’ ornate landmarks. Its medieval design showcases a different side of French history, complementing the city’s Renaissance and Baroque influences.
For families, it’s an opportunity to experience a lesser-known yet fascinating attraction. This unique setting adds variety to your Paris adventure, making it a well-rounded and enriching experience for all ages.
Affordable Entry
Château de Vincennes is budget-friendly, offering great value for families. Tickets are reasonably priced, with discounts or free entry for children. It’s an affordable alternative to more expensive Parisian landmarks, without sacrificing historical significance.
Families can enjoy an enriching experience while keeping costs low, proving that unforgettable adventures don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Seasonal Events and Activities
Château de Vincennes sometimes hosts exciting seasonal events like medieval fairs and workshops. These activities bring the castle to life, engaging kids and parents alike.
Families can learn, play, and experience history in a dynamic way. Checking the event calendar before your visit ensures you won’t miss out on these unique opportunities to make your trip even more memorable.
Our Family’s Visit
Our visit was very enjoyable as we were able to see a lot of the castle and its grounds. Keep in mind that the place is quite expansive and spread out. We stayed for approximately two hours and saw a lot of what we wanted to see.
Our kids enjoyed being able to wander around and explore what a real castle looks like. It was equally exciting to be able to see history in person. A castle is something the we previously had only read about and saw in history books.
With so much to see we were happy with our visit. We were able to take our time and move from room to room and floor to floor and see what we wanted. There weren’t a lot of people there and some areas did not have any people at all.
How To Get There
Château de Vincennes is delightfully easy to reach from central Paris, thanks to the city’s efficient Metro system. Simply hop on Line 1 and ride it to the final stop—aptly named “Château de Vincennes.”
From there, it’s only a few minutes on foot to the castle gates. Our journey from the 17th Arrondissement took roughly 30 minutes.
For an alternative route, the RER A train also serves nearby Vincennes station, ensuring multiple convenient ways to explore this historic gem.
Once you’ve arrived, consider strolling through the adjacent Bois de Vincennes, the largest public park in Paris, to round out your day with a refreshing dose of nature.
Get Tickets To Chateau de Vincennes
Purchasing tickets for Château de Vincennes is straightforward, with two main options available. You can choose a standard admission, allowing you to explore at your own pace, or choose a guided tour for an in-depth look at the castle’s history and architecture. While tickets are available on-site, many travelers prefer the convenience of booking in advance.
Enjoy Your Trip To Chateau de Vincennes
With its towering keep, fascinating history, and tranquil surroundings, Château de Vincennes is a perfect addition to your Paris itinerary. Whether you choose a guided tour or wander independently, you’ll discover a hidden gem that’s fun for all ages. If you’re looking for more tips to make the most of your trip to Paris, don’t miss our comprehensive planning guide as well as our tips for visiting Paris on a budget.
