According to the French newspaper Le Figaro, French monuments recorded record visitor numbers in 2025. Official figures from the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN) indicate that national monuments across France welcomed more than 12 million visitors last year. It is no surprise that the country’s castles stand out as some of the most popular sites.
For the first time, monuments under the care of the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN) collectively welcomed more than 12 million visitors over the year, driven in part by the continuing momentum from the Paris Olympic Games and renewed interest in historic sites.
While the overall list of most visited national monuments is dominated by iconic sites such as the Arc de Triomphe or the Abbey of Mont‑Saint‑Michel, several castles and palace complexes stood out for their popularity, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and highlighting the central role of medieval and Renaissance architecture in France’s cultural narrative.
Here a some of the top attractions.
Castle and ramparts of Carcassonne: a medieval masterpiece
Located in the Occitanie region, the Castle and ramparts of Carcassonne remains one of France’s most iconic medieval sites. With over 600 000 visitors in 2025, it proves that it continues to captivate tourists. Its double-walled fortifications, massive towers, and atmospheric medieval streets are popular for a reason.
Restored in the 19th century by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, Carcassonne’s fortifications have been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering you an authentic experience of medieval architecture and city planning. Walk the ramparts, explore the castle courtyard, and learn about the history of the fortress. Carcassonne is simply a must-visit destination for all lovers of castles.
Visitor tip: Plan your visit in spring or early autumn to enjoy the castle with fewer crowds.
Château d’Angers: home of the Apocalypse Tapestry
In the Loire Valley, the Château d’Angers welcomed over 320 000 visitors in 2025, making it one of France’s most popular castles. This fortress dominates the river Maine with its 17 massive towers and thick medieval walls. Inside, the world-famous Apocalypse Tapestry — one of the largest and most significant medieval tapestry cycles — draws visitors from across the globe.
Château d’Angers gives you a combination of military heritage with artistic treasures. You can explore the ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city, and immerse yourselve in the history of the rugged fortress.
Visitor tip: Don’t miss the tapestry; guided tours provide detailed insights into the artwork and its symbolism.
Château d’Azay-le-Rideau: Renaissance elegance on the Indre
Also in the Loire Valley, the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau stood out in the 2025 ranking with more than 320 000 visitors. Built on an island in the Indre River during the early 16th century, this château is a prime example of French Renaissance architecture, with its elegant façades reflected in the calm waters below.
Unlike the massive fortresses of Carcassonne or Angers, this edifice showcases the refined lifestyle of French Renaissance nobility. Explore the beautifully furnished rooms, enjoy the intimate gardens, and marvel at the château’s architectural details. Oui oui madame!
Visitor tip: Early morning visits offer stunning reflections in the river and quieter experiences.
Château de Pierrefonds: romantic medieval revival
The Château de Pierrefonds, located near Compiègne, attracted over 180 000 visitors in 2025. This castle offers a dramatic blend of medieval fortress and 19th-century romantic restoration.
It was originally built in the 14th century and later restored in the romantic spirit of the Middle Ages. It has inspired countless visitors, artists, and filmmakers. Its mixture of authenticity and revivalist flair makes it one of France’s most captivating castles.
Visitor tip: Guided tours of the castle provide fascinating historical context and highlight the restoration work.
Château de Vincennes: royal fortress near Paris
Last but not least: The Château de Vincennes, just outside Paris. It welcomed over 160 000 visitors in 2025. It is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval fortresses. Vincennes served as a royal residence, hunting lodge, and military stronghold. It has a towering keep, deep moat, and a Gothic chapel.
Visitors can explore the fortified grounds, walk along the walls, and learn about centuries of French monarchy. Vincennes offers an accessible heritage experience for travellers based in Paris or exploring the Ile-de-France region.
Visitor tip: Combine a visit to Vincennes with a tour of the nearby Bois de Vincennes for a full-day cultural and nature outing.
Why France’s castles and palaces remain popular
Several factors explain why these castles and palaces drew record visitors in 2025:
- Heritage storytelling: Beyond architecture, French castles offer immersive narratives of kings, queens, knights, and historic events that appeal to all ages.
- Geographical diversity: From southern fortresses like Carcassonne to Loire Valley Renaissance châteaux and Parisian royal palaces, there is a rich range of destinations across France.
- Tourism rebound: Following a renewed interest in cultural travel, heritage tourism has grown, supported by improved visitor facilities and interpretation.
- Photogenic appeal: Many castles are located in scenic settings — rivers, valleys, forests — making them visually stunning for social media and travel blogs, which fuels further interest.
Plan your visit: To make the most of your trip, consider exploring the Loire Valley for its concentration of Renaissance châteaux, or combine northern France castles with cultural stops in Paris and Compiègne. Many sites now offer online ticketing, guided tours, and special exhibitions, making it easier than ever to explore France’s rich heritage.
