Are you planning to visit the Château d'Angers? It's an excellent idea, we loved discovering this unique place!
Classified as a historic monument since 1875, it houses the famous Apocalypse tapestry, listed inUNESCO's Memory of the World register. This national estate has had an incredible destiny, and we'll tell you all about it as we go along. First a medieval fortress, then the residence of the Dukes of Anjou, it became a prison between the 16th and 19th centuries.
In this article, you'll find all the practical tips and photos you need to prepare your visit to the château.
This review is completely independent, we visited anonymously and paid our entrance fee in full.
Why visit the Castle in Angers?
Is the Château d'Angers worth it? Our opinion:
The Château d'Angers offers total immersion in the medieval history of the Pays de la Loire region. Its 17 imposing towers and well-preserved ramparts offer spectacular views of the city and its surroundings. Inside, the monumental tapestry of the Apocalypse transported us into a fantastic tale combining Christian mythology and 14th-century reality. As we wandered through the corridors of this fortress, we followed in the footsteps of the Dukes of Anjou and especially the Plantagenets, plunging into the royal history of France and the kings of England. This château is much more than a monument, it's a journey through time that will delight lovers of architecture, art and history.
Why is the Château d'Angers famous?
This castle has achieved worldwide renown thanks to the tapestry of the Apocalypse, a medieval work of rare scope that fascinated us with its scale and artistic complexity. It has been listed onUNESCO 's Memory of the World register since May 2023. What's more, the monument's unique architecture and 17 impressive towers bear witness to its historical importance as a medieval royal fortress. Situated in the heart of the city of Angers, its location makes it an emblem of the Pays de la Loire region. We loved discovering this castle and its hidden treasures!
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Our favorite moments
Later in this article, we'll give you the details of our experience at the château, but we couldn't wait to share our favorite moments with you:
- contemplation of the tapestry of the Apocalypse: a unique masterpiece that transported us into a story mixing historical reality and fiction!
- the 360° panorama of Angers: a superb viewpoint awaited us at the top of the castle ramparts, and we were captivated by the view!
- the hanging gardens: an island of greenery skilfully laid out within the walls of the national site, which won us over completely!
Virtual visit of the château on video
A short video summarizing our experience at the Château d'Angers will be available soon.
Practical tips and map of Château d'Angers, France
Where is the Castle in Angers?
The château is located at 2 Promenade du Bout du Monde (49100) in Angers, Maine-et-Loire.
- Driving time from Nantes: 1h20,
- Driving time from Tours: 1h20,
- Driving time from Saumur: 45min,
- Driving time from Blois: 2h,
- Driving time from Orléans: 2h30.
Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get there?
To get to Angers, you can opt for the train. There are regular connections from nearby train stations, such as Saumur (20min) and Tours (50min), as well as from Paris (1h40). Once you've reached your destination, it's a 12-minute walk to the Château d'Angers. If you're looking for a 3-day train itinerary to discover the chateaux of the Loire Valley, we've put together a dedicated article for you.
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
If you're coming from further afield and have decided to fly, we recommend landing at Nantes airport rather than the huge Paris airports. The train journey to Angers will be shorter, and you'll bypass the hustle and bustle of the capital. However, you can also rent a car at Nantes airport. This is the fastest option.
You can also come directly by car, as the town is well served by the A11 freeway and the N23 trunk road. If you're planning to visit several Loire castles, we advise you to bring your own vehicle. It's the most convenient way to get from one tourist attraction to the next without wasting too much time.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Parking
The château does not have its own parking lot. However, you will have access to a paid public parking lot on President Kennedy's Square, located at the foot of the monument. Relatively modest in size, it can quickly fill up during peak summer and weekend periods.
Parking is charged everywhere and relatively expensive, but you should be able to find a space in the Ralliement or station parking lots (less than a 10-minute walk away). More information will be available on the city's official website here.
If you've decided to come by bike, you'll find dedicated spaces right next to the President Kennedy parking lot.
Best time to visit the castle
A must-see when visiting the Pays de la Loire region, the Château d'Angers is the region's most visited historic monument during the summer months. No fewer than 246,000 visitors were registered throughout 2022. As you can see, if you want to avoid the busiest times of the year, we recommend avoiding the summer period and other school vacations.
What's more, most of your visit will take place outdoors. There are very few interiors to visit at the château. You'll need to take weather conditions into account to get the most out of the experience. The 360° panorama over Angers is even more pleasant on a sunny day.
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
- Discover our selection of the most beautiful castles of the Loire Valley
- Where to go to visit the castles of the Loire Valley - article to come
Cities and villages
- Visit the beautiful cities along the Loire River
- Stroll under the charm of the villages of the Loire Valley
- Choose from the best things to do in Nantes
Practice
Length of visit and main difficulties
We recommend that you allow at least 2 hours for your visit to the Château d'Angers.
The monument is not entirely suitable for people with reduced mobility or children in baby carriages. We noted several staircases and raised floors throughout our visit. As most of the walk takes place outdoors, you'll be confronted with a number of difficulties linked to the many steps and slopes required to access the ramparts. We suggest you consult the map of the castle's accessibility below.
For the visually impaired, you'll find tactile representations of certain works in the château. In our photo below, it's the bust of King René.
Advice on how to visit
To discover the castle, you don't necessarily need to follow a specific route. The main focus will be on exploring the exterior of the estate, as there will be few interiors to see. For our part, we started with lunch at the Monument Café, the castle's restaurant. After a gourmet break, we began our tour with the Governor's Dwelling and the Field Gate, as we were located right next door.
As you can see from the château plan below, we started with the west wing. We then climbed the ramparts of the monument to take in the view of Angers and its river. From this vantage point, the landscape was impressive, blending nature and city.
Afterwards, we strolled through the château's gardens. This lovely green setting seemed to be suspended above the city. At the eastern end, we made our way to the mill tower, which offered a panoramic view of the river below. We continued our visit by passing under the châtelet to reach the royal dwelling and its chapel.
On leaving the dwelling, we discovered the archaeological zone of the castle directly opposite. We then walked to the wall of the Palais Comtal, which overlooked La Maine. Did you know? It's not the Loire that bypasses Angers to the south, but the Maine, one of its tributaries. To conclude our tour in style, we gazed in amazement at the tapestry of the Apocalypse.
Angers castle with children
The castle is child-friendly. It offers a range of tools to help younger visitors discover the site in a fun way: a booklet-game (€2), audioguides (€3), guided tours, unusual tours, workshops and events. You'll have a great time with your family, even if the castle isn't exactly magical. For more information on these activities, please visit the château's official website here.
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Schedules and rates
Schedules:
- open from May 2 to September 4 between 10am and 6:30pm,
- open from September 5 to April 30 between 10am and 5:30pm,
- closed on January 1, May 1 and December 25.
Ticket price:
- adult full price: €9.50,
- free for children under 18.
Book your ticket to the Château d'Angers now.
Guided tours
The château offers several types of visit: with an audioguide (€3), guided tours, events (such as medieval board games), unusual tours and workshops.
Catering
In the castle: the Monument Café
Located in the grounds of the Château d'Angers, we had lunch at the Monument Café. This charming restaurant boasts a lovely outdoor terrace, which we were delighted to sit out on. In the shade of a tree, we enjoyed sweet and savory verrines, homemade from local, seasonal produce.
This restaurant has been awarded the Tables et Auberges de France label, and also offers daily specials in casseroles. Our photos give you an idea of the products on offer in their all-day tea room. We highly recommend a gourmet break during your visit to the château.
Outside the château: other options
Please note that picnics are not permitted on site, so you'll have to leave the castle for lunch. You're sure to find a pleasant place to settle on the banks of the Maine.
You can also eat outside the castle. Angers has an excellent restaurant offer. With a breathtaking view of the monument, Restaurant Chez Pont-Pont offers a menu of meat and fish dishes, and pizzas, at reasonable prices.
For lovers of sweet and savoury dishes, we strongly recommend you try the Crêperie du Château, just a few metres from the national site. The menu features delicious galettes and crêpes made with local produce.
WHERE TO STAY IN
THE Loire Valley
Option 1: Saumur
To explore the eastern part, Saumur is the ideal city. It has a very good selection of hotels and restaurants but is not too big. You don't feel drowned in the city.
Nearby, you have the castles of Saumur, Brissac, Chinon, Montreuill-Bellay and the abbey of Fontevraud, among others.
- The Saint Pierre Hotel, a charming place in the heart of the city - See prices, photos and availability
- See the best rated accommodations in Saumur!
Option 2: Tours / Amboise
To be in the heart of the castles and close enough to the most famous ones (Chambord and Chenonceau) we recommend the big city of Tours or the smaller one of Amboise.
- Thehotel Le Charme Rabelaisien with a view on the castle of Amboise. See prices, photos and availability.
- See the best rated accommodations in Amboise.
Option 3: In a castle
One of the best experiences to have is to sleep in a castle. There are so many of them in the area that some have been transformed into hotels. It is an unforgettable experience!
- The Chateau de Chissay is very well located and offers a luxurious and historical experience. We would have liked to stay longer... See prices, photos and availability.
- See our article with our favorite castles to sleep in.
Option 4: Blois
And also, the charming city of Blois built around the Loire River. Fascinating to visit and close to Chambord, Chaumont-sur-Loire and Amboise.
- The magnificent and luxurious Fleurs de Loire hotel, for an unforgettable stay - See prices, photos and availability.
- See the best rated accommodations in Blois
The great history of the Château d'Angers
Over the centuries, the château has had many different destinies. Originally built as a medieval fortress, it successively became the residence of the Dukes of Anjou, a prison, and finally a historic monument open to the public. The national site is home to the forgotten palace of the famous Plantagenet family. Considered the last counts of Anjou, the Plantagenets became kings of England in the 12th century. Connected to the region, some members of the family are buried at the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, not far from the Château d'Angers.
From prehistory to the 13th century
Although the castle is emblematic of medieval history, the site also contains traces dating back to the Neolithic period. The land on which it stands today was once inhabited by our prehistoric ancestors, as archaeological finds testify. Visiting this monument opened a window on a past even more distant than we had imagined.
Jump back in time to the heart of the 9th century, when Angers felt the Viking threat hanging over it. To confront him, Charles the Bald, King of France, officially gave birth to the castle, but it did not yet have its current scale and splendor.
Once a modest count's palace, home to the powerful Plantagenet family between the 11th and 14th centuries, the castle took on a whole new dimension. Under the impetus of Queen Blanche of Castile (mother of Louis IX), it became a huge royal fortress with 17 defensive towers from 1230 onwards. The aim was to protect the border of the kingdom of France.
The residence of the Dukes of Anjou
Between the 14th and 15th centuries, the château was home to influential members of the French royal family, the Dukes of Anjou. They renovated the site, overseeing the construction of magnificent flamboyant Gothic buildings at its heart. Passionate about art, they commission works such as the gigantic tapestry of the Apocalypse. We can salute their artistic legacy, which continues to dazzle us to this day.
From castle to prison
At the end of the 16th century, the château was in danger following the departure of King René and the attachment of Anjou to the crown. The Huguenots (the name given to French Protestants during the Wars of Religion) seized the site twice, and the King of France (Henry III) decided to raze the fortress to the ground. Fortunately, its governor, Donadieu de Puycharic, eventually redesigned it to its current silhouette.
Until the 19th century, the château lost its royal dimension and was transformed into a prison. It was home to many prisoners, including Nicolas Fouquet, who was arrested by the famous D'Artagnan. During this dark period, the castle's walls served as an outlet for the prisoners, who left their mark on the walls.
The 17-tower fortress
The castle towers stand majestically in the heart of Angers, silent reminders of medieval times. Their robust architecture and imposing heights bear witness to their defensive role. We were impressed by their imposing silhouettes of schist and tufa stone. From their summit, some thirty meters above sea level, we enjoyed a magnificent panorama of the city and its surroundings.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
A royal castle full of surprises
After this little historical contextualization, it's time to dive into the tour of the site!
Contemplating the 15th-century châtelet
Before discovering the royal dwelling and its chapel, we suggest you take a few minutes to contemplate the 15th-century châtelet. This majestic building marks the boundary between the 2 main parts of the site: the defensive fortress and the château residence of the Dukes of Anjou.
As we passed under the arch of the châtelet, we could make out the wall of the Palais Comtal against the blue sky. We were transported to another era for a few minutes.
Discover the royal dwelling and its chapel
The château has few interiors, but you'll be able to enter the royal dwelling and its adjoining chapel. We were curious to discover what was hidden in these buildings.
Between the miniature reconstructions of the castle in different eras, historical objects, sculptures and paintings, art and history lovers are sure to be satisfied! Beyond the collection, we were struck by the beauty of the place. We could easily imagine a royal family living here in the luxury of yesteryear.
We then discovered the chapel, which we admired for its elegance. Its high ceilings and magnificent vaulted ceilings charmed us. We were also captivated by its colorful stained glass windows, which seemed to bring the vast room to life. It was built by Louis II and Yolande d'Aragon around 1410.
But who was the good King René d'Anjou?
The Dukes of Anjou, and in particular the last of them, King René (1409-1480), had a profound influence on the château's development. In particular, he had the châtelet and the royal dwelling built in the flamboyant Gothic style. After visiting the château, we can assure you that it definitely had good taste!
René d'Anjou was a man of letters, a patron of the arts and a sovereign renowned for his passion for the arts and culture. He was also a monarch involved in the politics of his time. His reign is particularly linked to the Anjou region, where he encouraged the flourishing of the arts, literature and architecture. We thought this exhibition was a good idea, as it highlights a personality who played an important role in the château's development.
Observe the wall of the Palais comtal
Long before it became a real castle with a defensive purpose, the Counts of Anjou took up residence here in the 9th century. Taking advantage of the unique setting, perched on a rocky escarpment overlooking the river, they built an authentic palace. We were able to admire the wall of the old building, which is the remnant of the first version of the Plantagenet castle.
We were captivated by the view from the great gateway through the wall of the Count's palace. We could contemplate the Maine River flowing below us, and the barges that brought it to life.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in the Loire Valley a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
If you wish to be informed of the publication of our guide on the Loire, register:
Must-sees on your visit
We've listed our favorite activities from our visit to the château. In our opinion, these are the must-haves for the national site.
What's behind the field door?
We couldn't wait to discover the secrets of the Field Gate. But before talking about this monument to archaeology, we discovered the 4 Angers candlesticks. Commissioned from visual artist Sarkis in 1993, they reduce the stone volume of the château's rib-vaulted rooms to one-fifth. His work will be reworked in 2012, with the addition of colored neon. We were pleasantly surprised by this artistic experience built around colorful sensations. The confrontation between the bright color and the period walls made a lasting impression on us.
Wondering why the porte des champs is so famous? The oldest portcullis in France, it is made of wood, more specifically oak. Archaeologists have determined that the trees used to build the gate were cut down between 1373 and 1384. We were amazed by the robustness of the portcullis, which was the main entrance to the château at the time. In our photo below, you can see it from inside the site.
You may be wondering the same thing we are. How can this harrow be so well preserved? The answer surprised us, but in the end it was quite logical. The château has never really been attacked (with the exception of the Huguenots in the 16th century), so the gate has never been breached. We were extremely lucky to be able to observe an authentic vestige of the Middle Ages.
Admire the tapestry of the Apocalypse
This hanging is an exceptionally large-scale medieval work, depicting detailed scenes from the last book of the Bible. Measuring 103m long and 4.40m high, it is the oldest and longest surviving tapestry from the Middle Ages. We were impressed by the technical quality and finesse of its weaving. The room, bathed in half-light, honors the work and highlights its shimmering hues.
We have learned that it was commissioned by Louis I d'Anjou in 1375. It illustrates the Apocalypse according to Saint John, as well as contemporary events such as the Hundred Years' War. We tried to decipher some of the scenes. Its story reads like a giant comic book.
On your way out of the château, don't hesitate to cross the river Maine to discover the Musée Jean Lurçat, featuring a contemporary tapestry on the theme of the apocalypse, woven by the great French master a few years after Hiroshima.
Stroll through the château gardens
Even before entering the château, we could appreciate the beauty of the gardens and its magnificent flowerbeds from Place Kennedy. The shapes carved into the vegetation were impressively precise and fine. We loved the contrast of colors, blending a pink gradient with the predominant green. Once we reached the top of a fortification, we didn't have the same perspective on the gardens, which slightly altered the vegetation patterns below.
Angers is considered the garden of France, and is the country's main horticultural zone. Set on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the city, this natural paradise was a real delight. We have King René to thank for being the first to plant the monument. These gardens are contemporary creations influenced by medieval vegetation. In our opinion, this clash of eras is a successful gamble!
Enjoy a unique panoramic view of Angers
There's more to come! Head for the "chemin de la ronde" along the castle ramparts. We first climbed a slope to reach the fortifications. Once we'd reached the top of the towers, we took our time to cover the 500m walk, immersing ourselves in the delightful scenery.
Perched on a hill, the château offered spectacular views over Angers and its picturesque surroundings. The Maine River meandering through the city added a touch of tranquility to the scene, making it an unforgettable experience. Impressed by the view, we have precious memories of this escape through the ages.
Frequently asked questions
Which châteaux to visit around Angers?
If you're looking for your next castle destination less than 1h40 away by car, we've written several articles dedicated to you:
- visit the Château de Chenonceau,
- visit the Château de Saumur,
- visit the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud,
- visit the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau,
- visit Nantes castle,
- visit the Château de Brissac,
- visit Château du Rivau,
- visit the royal château of Amboise.
Which Loire châteaux to visit in 3 days?
Can't decide which châteaux to visit on your short break in the Loire Valley? Don't worry, we've put together 4 3-day itineraries for you to choose from according to your personal interests. You can read our dedicated article here.
Our top 3 things to do in Angers
The castle of Angers
An impressive castle where the powerful Counts of Anjou ruled. The military fortress was built between 1230 and 1242 and has 17 towers, more than 40 meters high, connected by an 800 meter long enclosure. Its extraordinary dimensions and its rich and tormented history make it a castle not to be missed in Anjou. The castle is home to a real treasure, the tapestry of the apocalypse of John made in the late fourteenth century.
- See our photos and tips for a successful visit of the castle of Angers (coming soon).
Jean Lurçat and Contemporary Tapestry Museum
The Jean Lurçat Museum is located on the right bank of the Maine River, in the former Saint-Jean Hospital (12th century). It presents in particular the exceptional contemporary tapestry"Le chant du monde" realized by Jean Lurçat. This set of 10 panels, inspired by the Hiroshima tragedy, dialogues with the tapestry of the Apocalypse of John exhibited at the castle. Really fascinating and likely to reconcile you with the art of tapestry.
- See our photos and tips for a successful visit to the Jean Lurçat Museum (coming soon).
The David d'Angers Gallery
This museum offers a monumental dive into the art of the Angevin sculptor Pierre-Jean David d'Angers (1788-1856). In addition to the interest of the works, it is their presentation in the old Toussaint Abbey (13th century) under a contemporary glass roof that transported us.
An immersive experience in the bourgeois world of the 19th century, with this unique shopping mall in Europe. The play of light, the ironwork on the staircase, the sculptures... everything contributes to making this passageway a timeless place dedicated to the pleasure of window shopping.
- See our photos and tips for a successful visit to the Galerie David d'Angers (coming soon).
And to learn more:
our complete selection of 15 things to do in Angers (coming soon)
Our top 3 places to eat in Angers
We stay at 51
In the heart of downtown, a nice little gourmet address, where they cook good fresh local products, with a bit of creativity and a lot of generosity. For the wines, you are invited to choose the bottle yourself in the small cellar - pantry of the restaurant, with a nice selection of Loire wines. Just a beautiful moment! Discover the map
Milk Thyme Salt(1 star)
You have to be there (very) in advance to access the incredible tasting menu in this beautiful half-timbered house in the historic district of the Doutre. Only 20 covers and a young chef at the stove, spotted as a "great of tomorrow". We can only confirm this! Reserve your table
Le Belle Rive
Along the Maine River, on the right bank, a beautiful and creative restaurant only 5 minutes from the Château des Forges. We appreciate the terrace in the spring and the warm atmosphere in the winter. An ode to fresh produce and tranquility. We love it! Consult the map.
And to learn more:
our complete selection of 10 restaurants where to eat in Angers (coming soon)
All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Elisa.
