Château de Vincennes

Paris


Originally a 12th-century hunting lodge, this fortified royal residence on Paris' fringe was expanded several times throughout the centuries until it reached its present size under Louis XIV. Notable features of the striking medieval château include the beautiful 52m-high keep (1370) and royal chapel (1552). Note that the chapel is only open between 10.30am and 1pm, and 2pm and 5.30pm mid-May to mid-September (until 4.30pm mid-September to mid-May).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Paris attractions

1. Parc Floral de Paris

0.62 MILES

This magnificent botanical park is a highlight of the Bois de Vincennes. Natural landscaping, a Japanese bonsai pavilion, an azalea garden and several…

2. Parc Zoologique de Paris

1.28 MILES

Paris' largest, state-of-the-art zoo focuses on the conservation of species and habitats, with camouflaged vantage points (no peering through fences). Its…

3. Petite Ceinture du 12e

1.32 MILES

A 1.7km section of the now-abandoned Petite Ceinture ('little belt') railway line, which encircled central Paris from the late 19th century until the line…

4. Aquarium Tropical

1.39 MILES

Modernised in 2018, this 1931-opened aquarium in the basement of the art deco Palais de la Porte Dorée, beneath the Musée de l'Histoire de l’Immigration,…

6. Bois de Vincennes

1.43 MILES

In the southeastern corner of Paris, Bois de Vincennes encompasses some 995 hectares. Originally royal hunting grounds, the woodland was annexed by the…

7. Lac Daumesnil

1.45 MILES

Like something out of a Renoir painting, the largest lake in Bois de Vincennes is a popular destination for walks and rowboat excursions in warmer months …

8. Cimetière du Père Lachaise

2.41 MILES

Opened in 1804, Père Lachaise is the world's most visited cemetery. Its 70,000 ornate tombs of the rich and famous form a verdant, 44-hectare sculpture…