Chateau de Langeais

A journey through time: from medieval fortress to Renaissance château

Château de Langeais is one of the Loire Valley's most venerable châteaux, dating back to the 10th century. It has witnessed key periods such as the feudal wars, the Hundred Years' War and the French Revolution.

Its architectural transformation is fascinating, evolving from a simple castle mound into an impressive fortress, before becoming a pleasure palace. The keep of Foulques Nerra, one of the earliest examples of a stone keep in France—though now in ruins—offers a breathtaking view of the Loire River. The 12th-century keep, built by Richard the Lionheart, is remarkably well-preserved and houses an exhibition on medieval life.

Built in 1465 by Louis XI, the Renaissance castle is the jewel of the estate, with its ornate Gothic façade and its Renaissance façade, characterized by understated elegance. Surrounded by gardens inspired by the Middle Ages, it stands majestically in the heart of a lush park.

The tapestry collection and interior jewels

The Château de Langeais houses an exceptional collection of tapestries from the 15th to the 18th century, depicting myths, history, and court life. Among them, the Apocalypse Tapestry—the oldest in France—and the tapestry depicting the marriage of Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany are major highlights.

The castle’s interior, carefully decorated, reflects the luxury of the Renaissance. Admire the monumental fireplaces, coffered ceilings, wood paneling, and period furniture—not to mention the personal belongings of the lords of Langeais.

The wedding of Anne de Bretagne and Charles VIII: a key event recounted by Langeais

The Château de Langeais is famous for hosting the wedding of Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany on December 6, 1491, an event that united Brittany with France and put an end to decades of conflict. An original exhibition recreates this historic moment, featuring wax figures, period costumes, and an immersive display in the castle’s chapel—where the ceremony took place—followed by a grand celebration attended by more than 2,000 guests.

Prepare your visit: opening times, prices and practical information

Want to discover the Château de Langeais? We've made it easy for you with all the information you need for a smooth visit. Follow our comprehensive guide.

Opening hours: plan your visit

The Château de Langeais is open year-round, except on December 25. Hours vary by season; however, please note that visitors may enter up to one hour before closing time.

Timetable for 2023 :

• February-March: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• April-June: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• July-August: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• September-11 November: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• November 12-January: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

We recommend setting aside at least two hours to explore the castle and its grounds, while enjoying the activities available year-round.

Chateau de Langeais - 2023 prices: individual and group tickets

The Chateau de Langeais has prices to suit everyone:

• Individuals: adults 11.50€, 18-25 years 9.50€, 10-17 years 5.80€, under 10 years free
• Annual subscription: €24 per person, valid for one year from the date of purchase
• Adult groups: from 20 people, €9.50 per person, by prior arrangement
• School groups: from 10 pupils, €4.50 per pupil, by prior arrangement

Buy your tickets online on the castle’s website or at the reception desk on the day of your visit.

Access and tips for an optimal visit

Getting to Château de Langeais is easy, whether by car, train or bike. Here's how:

• By car or bus: 25 minutes from Tours via the A85 (Exit 7), 1 hour from Angers, 1 hour and 15 minutes from Le Mans, 1 hour and 20 minutes from Poitiers and Vierzon, 2 hours from Nantes, 2 hours and 30 minutes from Paris via the A10 and A85, 3 hours from Rennes
• By train: 5-minute walk from the SNCF train station, regular services to Tours and Saumur, Tours St-Pierre-des-Corps TGV station 55 minutes from Paris Montparnasse.
• By plane: Tours-Val de Loire and Angers Loire airports
• By bike: Follow the "Loire à Vélo" route

Free visitor parking (rue Foulque Nerra) available. Tips for a pleasant visit :

• Strollers are not allowed in the halls; please bring a baby carrier.
• Pets on leash welcome
• Photos without a flash are permitted indoors
• Baby area and checkroom available
• Picnic areas in the park

Services available: store, restaurants and related activities

Château de Langeais enriches your visit with :

• A store selling souvenirs, books, games and regional products
• A variety of catering outlets
• Relaxation areas in the park and year-round activities

For more information, visit our website or call us at 02 47 96 72 60.

Unique experiences and special events at the Chateau de Langeais

Beyond its rich historical and artistic heritage, the Château de Langeais offers unforgettable experiences and special events. Whether you're an avid Playmobil fan, a fan of themed tours, or looking for the perfect venue for your private functions, the Château de Langeais is sure to meet your expectations.

Playmobil exhibition: Tell me about the Middle Ages!

From February 10 to September 22, 2024, experience a unique medieval immersion at the Château de Langeais thanks to an unprecedented Playmobil exhibition. Explore the castle’s attic, where dynamic and detailed scenes—depicting key moments in the castle’s history, such as the construction of the keep by Foulques Nerra, the wedding of Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany, or a lordly banquet—come to life through the famous figurines. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how tapestries were created, the entertainment of the time, and the daily lives of peasants and artisans from that era.

The exhibition features educational materials designed for young visitors, ensuring a fun and educational experience. Don’t miss this chance to travel back in time with Playmobil! For more details, visit the castle’s website or check the events calendar.

Themed tours and activities for the whole family

Throughout the year, the Château de Langeais offers themed tours and family activities that let you discover the castle from new perspectives. Take part in workshops, shows, games, or guided tours that will transport you back in time, reveal fascinating anecdotes, or let you have fun in the company of the castle’s historical figures.

Whether you’d like to watch a blacksmithing demonstration, learn how to shoot a crossbow, listen to tales and legends, or meet King Charles VIII and Queen Anne of Brittany, there are activities for all tastes and all ages. Visit the castle’s website or check the events calendar to see the full program.

Private events and receptions: experience Langeais differently

If you're looking for a prestigious, authentic setting for your private events and receptions (weddings, anniversaries, seminars, parties), the Château de Langeais is the ideal venue. Depending on your requirements, you can rent one or more of our rooms, which can accommodate from 20 to 200 people.

You can also take advantage of our park and gardens, offering magnificent views of the Loire and the keep, and benefit from tailor-made services such as catering, photography, entertainment and private tours of the château.

For more information, please contact us at 02 47 96 72 60 or by email at contact@chateau-de-langeais.com.

Chateau de Langeais - Conclusion

The Chateau de Langeais presents itself as a destination of choice For lovers of history, art, and nature. This place promises a rich and diverse experience, inviting you to explore the Middle Ages and the Renaissance through its remarkable architecture, its precious collections, its captivating activities, and its lush grounds. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or in a group, the Château de Langeais is sure to exceed your expectations!

Don’t wait any longer—be sure to book your visit by purchasing your tickets directly online on the castle’s official website, or contact us at 02 47 96 72 60 for more information. We look forward to welcoming you to the Château de Langeais!

Chateau de Langeais - FAQ

Who got married at the Château de Langeais?

Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany are the famous historical figures who were married at the Château de Langeais. Their wedding, held in secret on December 6, 1491, played a key role in French history by marking the beginning of Brittany’s incorporation into the kingdom.

Where to picnic in Langeais?

Langeais offers two wonderful options for a picnic. You can choose the castle park, which charms visitors with its lush green setting and historic atmosphere, complete with a playground and a treehouse that will delight young and old alike. Alternatively, the market hall in the town center is an excellent option, especially in case of bad weather, and is just a two-minute walk from the castle.