A hub of art, patrimoine and culture, they bring to life the History of France across the centuries, bearing witness to the years that unfold... The châteaux, estates and their gardens are magnificent places to visit year-round. But if you had to pick one specific day to discover the region’s castles, do it on Sunday July 19: it’s the International Castle Day!
During this sunny summer month, we're off to visit the most beautiful monuments in Paris and the Île-de-France region with family and friends. In the luxurious corridors, royal apartments and ballrooms, you'll rediscover pieces of history, moments from the past, architects' and artists' secrets... Admire the works of the greatest craftsmen, learn more about our heritage and enjoy a wonderful stroll!
It's decided: this Sunday, July 19, 2026, we're off to explore the region's castles. From the most famous to the lesser-known, whether close to home or in far flung corners, here is a selection of the castles ready to welcome us for this International Day.
This Louis XIII-era château in the Yvelines is set to rise again after two years of work.
The restoration of Château de Plaisir, a Louis XIII jewel in Yvelines, enters the final stretch after two years of work. The historic monument and its 17th-century dovecote are gearing up to begin a new chapter of cultural life. [Read more]
The medieval fortress of Beynes, the jewel of the Yvelines, has been linked to Diane de Poitiers.
A medieval fortress of the Yvelines, Beynes Castle hides a centuries‑old history and an unexpected link to Diane de Poitiers. Just 30 km from Paris, in the heart of this Yvelines town, its ruins—listed as a Historic Monument—are open to visits year‑round in Beynes. We set out to explore the site on a short break and now reveal a portion of its secrets. [Read more]
The Villarceaux Estate and Its Two Castles
The Villarceaux estate, open to the public free of charge in Chaussy, Val d'Oise (95), houses two classified châteaux set in a 70-hectare park and offers, through November 2026, a program of free activities: concerts, night-time strolls, performances and nature. We went to explore the site and here’s everything. [Read more]
Castles to Explore in Paris and Île-de-France: The Hidden Treasures of the Francilien Heritage
In the Paris region too, stunning castles await exploration! From regal royal residences and historic estates to centuries-old ruins, embark on a journey to uncover these treasures of heritage right in Paris and across Île-de-France! [Read more]
This historic château in Essonne, now the town hall, hides a remarkable botanical park that’s free to visit.
In Lardy, the castle park—now the town hall—runs along the Juine for six hectares and features remarkable century-old trees in Essonne, freely accessible year-round. We treated ourselves to a quick outing to reveal this surprising green space and its castle. [Read more]
The Château de Malmaison, from residence to museum
The Château de Malmaison, located in Rueil-Malmaison in the Hauts-de-Seine region of France, is now home to the Napoleonic National Museum. During the French Revolution, Josephine Bonaparte acquired the property and it became the Palais Impérial de Malmaison, transforming it into the seat of government for a time. [Read more]
Yvelines: the little-known château that inspired Ronsard and Cézanne is open to visitors!
Nestled on the banks of the Seine in Médan, Yvelines, the Château de Médan is a former hunting lodge listed as a Historic Monument, a site whose history weaves together poetry, painting and royal intrigues. The château is open to visitors once a month, for group bookings, or on special occasions such as Open Gardens or Heritage Days—we’ve got the full details. [Read more]
The Château of Vincennes: A Royal Fortress at the Gates of Paris
Along with the Louvre, the Château de Vincennes is one of the most important castles in French history. It is also one of the largest and best-preserved fortified castles in Europe... [Read more]
The Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise, the Impressionist treasure and its program
Discover the Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise and its sublime English gardens. Throughout the year, exhibitions and events focusing on Impressionism await you. [Read more]
The Château de Dourdan, an ancient fortified castle to discover in Essonne (91)
In the Essonne department, near Dourdan, you'll find a 13th-century fortified castle. Although you can't visit the interior, you can visit the ramparts on a walking tour! [Read more]
(Re)discover Royaumont Abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in Ile-de-France
Just north of Paris, in the Val d'Oise, stands the Abbaye de Royaumont, founded in 1228 by Saint Louis and his mother Blanche de Castille. This royal abbey, the largest Cistercian abbey in the Île-de-France region, is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. With its listed buildings, Royaumont offers a fascinating insight into French medieval history. Many events now take place on the premises, and we take you on a journey of rediscovery. [Read more]
Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, a Medieval Treasure in Ile-de-France
Available all year round, the Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, a medieval jewel in the Ile-de-France region, invites you to immerse yourself in history. [Read more]
Château de Bourron, stay in a truly historic château in the Ile-de-France region
We're off to Seine-et-Marne to discover a hidden treasure: Château de Bourron, a historic 17th-century residence near Fontainebleau, a haven of peace well worth the detour. Stay in this listed monument, lulled by the authenticity and beauty of its 40-hectare park. [Read more]
The Château de Monte-Cristo, Alexandre Dumas' hidden and unusual home
Discover the Château de Monte-Cristo, the residence imagined by the writer Alexandre Dumas. Set in an English garden on the Saint-Germain-en-Laye side of the Yvelines region, this exuberantly styled 19th-century château and its small Château d'If (Yew Castle) are waiting to be discovered. We take you on a tour of this hidden heritage, listed as a historic monument. [Read more]
Domaine de Grosbois: guided tours of the château and trotting horse training center (94)
In the Val-de-Marne region of France, the Domaine de Grosbois is a veritable historical and equestrian treasure trove. This 17th-century château, surrounded by a vast park, is now a museum and a mecca for trotting horse training, with guided tours available. [Read more]
Château d'Asnières-sur-Seine, an exceptional, little-known heritage site on the outskirts of Paris
If you don't live in Asnières-sur-Seine, you may be unaware of the existence of its château. Completely renovated during two restoration campaigns carried out by the town council in recent years, the site is now open to the public free of charge on certain Sundays of the year. [Read more]
Not sure which castle to choose? This guide may help you decide: it lists the exhibitions currently being organized in castles.
Exhibitions in the châteaux of Paris and the Île-de-France region: not-to-be-missed events
Châteaux can also offer some very fine exhibitions: that's what this guide shows, inviting you to discover the most beautiful cultural venues in the Île-de-France region at the moment. [Read more]
We hope you enjoy your visit, discovering the heritage of our region.
Dates and Opening Time
On July 19, 2026
Exhibitions in the châteaux of Paris and the Île-de-France region: not-to-be-missed events
