Puy du Fou

Unlike traditional theme parks, the Puy du Fou offers breathtaking shows that transport you through history, from Antiquity to the 20th century, including the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and the French Revolution. Come and explore the history of the Vendée and the whole country through spectacular performances combining special effects, stunts, pyrotechnics and animal training. You'll also have the chance to stroll through reconstructed villages and admire the work of old-time craftsmen.

And why not enrich your experience by staying in one of the park's theme hotels? Immersed in an atmosphere that's both historic and comfortable, you'll experience your adventure to the full.

This article is your ultimate guide to planning your visit and stay at Puy du Fou. Get all the advice and information you need to prepare for your trip, choose your must-see attractions, select your accommodation and optimize your time on site. So, are you ready to embark on this great adventure?

Let us guide you!

Preparing your visit to Puy du Fou

Planning a visit to the Puy du Fou may seem complex, but rest assured, we're here to guide you. Whether it's choosing the best time to come, knowing how to buy your tickets or organizing your tour efficiently, follow our advice for a rewarding experience.

See the weather at Puy du Fou

Choosing the right time for your visit

Le Puy du Fou welcomes you from March 30 to November 3, 2024, with times and offers varying according to the season. You can choose between :

• Special Offer" period : open from 9.30am to 7pm, with a 20% discount on your tickets if you book up to 72 hours in advance. See the dates in green in the calendar.
• Puy du Fou and Noces de Feu" period: open from 9:30 am to 10:30 pm, including Les Noces de Feu night show. Check the dates in red.
• Puy du Fou and Cinescénie" period: access from 9:30am to 9pm, where you can attend Cinéscénie, at an additional cost. Dates are framed in blue.

Your choice will depend on your interests, budget and expected level of visitor numbers. The best times to avoid the crowds are generally spring and autumn, while summer and school vacations attract more visitors.

If you're interested in night-time shows, choose the dedicated periods. To benefit from a reduced rate, choose the "Special Offer" period, bearing in mind that access to certain shows may be limited.

Puy du Fou rates

Here are the Puy du Fou prices for the 2025 season, as published on the park's official website.

Note: Reservation rates apply to tickets purchased in advance. On-site rates apply to purchases made directly at the park's ticket offices on the day of the visit.

Le Puy du Fou also offers a Special Offer with a 20 % discount on tickets for specific dates. For example, the 1-day ticket is €37 for adults and €26 for children during the "Special Offer" period.

For more details on rates and special offers, please visit the official Puy du Fou rates page.

Buy tickets and passes in advance

Buy your tickets or passes in advance on the official Puy du Fou website, on the Vendée Tourisme website or via an authorized reseller. Options :

• Grand Parc 1-day ticket (access without night shows): 46 € adult, 33 € child (3-13 years).
• Grand Parc 2-day ticket: €66 adult, €49 child.
• Grand Parc 3-day ticket: €82 adult, €61 child.
• Emotion Pass (priority access to 5 shows): additional €15 per day per person.
• Cinescénie ticket: €28 per person, in addition to Grand Parc ticket, advance booking recommended.

Select the date of your visit and the number of participants to receive your tickets by e-mail. Postal delivery is possible at an additional cost. Purchasing via Vendée Tourisme includes personalized customer service and a cancellation option.

Tips for an optimal itinerary

With over 20 shows spread over 55 hectares, planning your visit is essential. Follow these recommendations for a memorable experience:

• Consult the show schedule online or via the mobile app the day before your visit.
• Use the mobile app to access the interactive map, create your diary, receive alerts and order your meals in advance.
• Start early with popular and remote shows to avoid crowds.
• Alternate indoor and outdoor activities for your comfort.
• Between shows, explore historic villages for total immersion.
• Take advantage of the Emotion Pass for priority access to major attractions.
• Arrive early for night-time shows, and remember to dress warmly.

With careful planning, you can make the most of your visit to the Puy du Fou while respecting the park's rules. Enjoy your visit!

Puy du Fou must-sees

Get ready for a memorable adventure at Puy du Fou! We'll guide you through the breathtaking shows, picturesque villages, magnificent gardens and immersive experiences that make the park so famous. Plus, discover the best places to eat, whatever your preferences and budget.

Discover what awaits you at Puy du Fou!

Shows not to be missed

With over 20 shows to its credit, Puy du Fou takes you through the centuries, from Antiquity to the 20th century. Each show, lasting from 20 to 40 minutes, transports you to a different era thanks to striking sets, authentic costumes, impressive special effects, breathtaking stunts, amazing pyrotechnics and perfectly trained animals. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Le Dernier Panache : witness the epic story of a French naval officer, from Brest to the French Revolution to the American War of Independence, on a rotating stage with over 200 actors and 1,500 costumes.
• The Phantom Birds Ball : marvel at the aerial ballet of over 200 birds of prey flying over the ruins of the old castle, and discover the age-old art of falconry.
• The Sign of Triumph: immerse yourself in the excitement of the Roman arena with breathtaking battles and support your favorites.
• Vikings: relive the Viking invasion with emotionally-charged scenes involving horses, wolves and bears.
• Les Noces de Feu : let yourself be transported by the dreamlike wedding on the lake, in a night-time spectacle of light and fire.
• La Cinéscénie : enjoy the world's largest night show retracing the history of the Vendée, with an exceptional deployment of technical and human resources.

These shows are just a taste of what the Puy du Fou has to offer. Consult the program to choose the ones that interest you most.

Discover historic villages and gardens

Le Puy du Fou also features historic villages and gardens to explore, transporting you back to different eras thanks to careful reconstructions.

• Le Bourg 1900 : Take a stroll through an early 20th-century village, discover its stores and admire the work of its artisans.
• Le Village XVIIIe : immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the French Revolution, and experience some thrilling street entertainment.
• Le Fort de l'An Mil : explore a medieval village and its daily life, and take part in interactive workshops.
• The Medieval Garden : let yourself be charmed by a garden inspired by the Middle Ages, ideal for relaxation.
• Le Jardin des Musiques Oubliées : listen to the sounds of ancient instruments as you stroll through this enchanting garden.

There are many more villages and gardens to discover to enrich your visit. Don't forget to take the virtual tour to get a taste of these magnificent places.

Unique immersive experiences

In addition to shows and villages, immersive experiences will transport you to fascinating worlds and give you intense emotions.

• Le Grand Carrousel : Take off on an adventure on an impressive ride, with a wide choice of mounts available.
• Le Monde Imaginaire de La Fontaine : enter the world of enchanted fables and interact with their protagonists.
• Lovers of Verdun: relive the emotion of the final hours of the First World War through a poignant love story.
• The First Kingdom: follow Clovis's journey and immerse yourself in the history of the Franks with spectacular scenes.

These experiences are just part of what Puy du Fou has to offer. Explore further by visiting the park's website.

Excalibur, the new Puy du Fou treasure hunt

Le Puy du Fou, the famous French theme park, strikes a blow with Excalibur, the new Puy du Fou treasure hunt. Inspired by Arthurian legends, this quest is designed for fans of adventure and life-size puzzles. Offering a treasure estimated at 250,000 eurosThe game immerses participants in a unique experience combining history, calligraphy and mystery.

The key to a legendary treasure

At the heart of this hunt is a exceptional swordExcalibur, the mythical symbol of King Arthur. It measures 124 centimetresweighs 3.4 kilosand is adorned with a red spinel of 6.23 caratsThis makes it a unique piece, hand-forged by French craftsmen. The treasure is real: this sword, buried somewhere in Europein one of six possible countries (France, Spain, Portugal, Andorra, United Kingdom or Ireland).

To find the sword, players have to solve 12 calligraphy puzzlesdesigned by theUnsolved Hunts. Each riddle is an illuminated document, meticulously handwritten by the calligrapher. Étienne Picand. This artisanal approach makes it possible to offer a treasure hunt. resistant to artificial intelligencewith an emphasis on human logic and reflection.

How can I take part in the Excalibur quest?

The game is accessible to all adultsYou don't even have to go to the Puy du Fou. Simply purchase one or more game boxesoffered between 39 and €129depending on the level of progress required. The complete set contains all 12 puzzles, plus an accompanying booklet. Participants can help each other via a official Discord serverbut the resolution must remain individual, in accordance with the competition rules.

The hunt officially began on May 22, 2025and will end no later than June 30, 2030. This gives players five years to decipher the clues, locate the treasure and dig - in strict compliance with local excavation laws.

Within just a few days of its launch, more than 13,000 people had already signed up, testifying to the enormous enthusiasm generated by this immersive adventure. With Excalibur, the new Puy du Fou treasure huntThe park combines entertainment, heritage and puzzles in an original way, giving everyone the chance to become the hero of a real-life legend.

Gourmet break: where to eat in the park?

After so many adventures, treat yourself to a gourmet break at one of the park's many eateries. Whether you're looking for local specialities or more familiar dishes, there's something for every taste and budget.

• Le Bistrot : enjoy generous cuisine in a friendly atmosphere.
• Le Café de la Madelon: sample specialties from Vendée to the sound of live music.
• Le Relais de Poste : opt for fast food in a nostalgic setting.
• La Mijoterie du Roy Henry : enjoy refined cuisine overlooking the lake.

There are plenty of other places to eat and drink at Puy du Fou. Visit the park's website to discover all the options available.

Planning your stay: accommodation and tips

Are you looking for an exceptional multi-day adventure at the Puy du Fou? Are you wondering about the best place to stay, the ideal time to leave, or how to make your experience totally immersive and easy? We'll provide you with all the information and advice you need to organize your visit and make your stay a memorable one.

Here are some recommendations for planning your accommodation, managing your budget, organizing your program and enhancing your comfort.

Accommodation options in and around Puy du Fou

For your stay in the Puy du Fou, there are various types of accommodation available, depending on your preferences, budget and availability. Whether within the park, nearby or in the surrounding region, each option offers specific advantages.

Here's a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each hosting option:

• Inside the park : Stay in themed hotels immersed in different historical eras. Advantages: unlimited access to the park, breakfast, free parking, luggage service, possibility of reserving tickets for the Cinescénie or night shows. Disadvantages: higher price, advance booking required.
• Near the park : Choose from partner hotels within a 15-minute drive. Advantages: proximity to the park, free parking, availability of shuttles, diverse accommodation options. Disadvantages: relatively high rates, booking requires some planning.
• In the vicinity of the park : Opt for approved accommodation located more than 15 minutes away by car. Advantages: affordable rates, more availability, discovery of the region. Disadvantages: need to travel by car, parking costs, separate reservation for Cinéscénie.

Visit the Puy du Fou, Vendée Tourisme or Office de Tourisme du Pays des Herbiers websites for reservations and detailed information on accommodation.

The best times to take advantage of low rates

If your goal is to discover the Puy du Fou without spending a lot, here are the best periods to benefit from reduced rates:

• Special offer: Up to -20% on tickets if booked at least 72 h in advance for specific dates. Advantages: cheaper access and fewer crowds.
• Fireworks and Cinescénie period : Enjoy night-time shows included in your admission ticket, selected according to the season. Advantages: a magical show at no extra cost, moderate attendance. Note that for the Cinéscénie, a supplement is required, but the show is well worth it.

To book, explore the dedicated websites of Puy du Fou, Vendée Tourisme, or the Pays des Herbiers Tourist Office.

Tips for a complete immersive experience: Cinescénie and other night-time events

To make the most of the shows and night-time experiences, follow these recommendations:

• Cinescénie : Epic night show with 2,000 actors and state-of-the-art technology. Tip: book early, the cost is €28, and plan to arrive at least one hour beforehand.
• Noces de Feu : Included in the ticket, this show on the lake will enchant you with its water and light effects.
• Mime Étoile show : Discover the art of mime, acrobatics and more. This show is available at the time of your visit without additional reservation.

See program for exact times and locations.

Services and accessibility: making your visit easier

For a hassle-free visit to Puy du Fou, here's some useful information:

• Park access : Located in Les Epesses in the Vendée, the park is accessible by car, train, plane or bus, with connections from all major towns. Note: parking costs €8 per day.
• Moving around the park : A map will be provided, and shuttle services (€5/day) and bicycle rental (€10/day) are available to help you get around.
• Catering : A wide range of food and beverage outlets are available in the park, with the option of ordering online via Click & Collect.
• Access to shows : Over 20 shows are on offer, accessible with your ticket. Priority passes or reservations may be required in high season.

Explore the Puy du Fou website or its mobile application for more details on these services.

Puy du Fou Hotel 

Total immersion in history with the park's hotels

Visit Puy du Fou doesn't just offer spectacular shows, it also offers a wide range of complete immersive experienceright down to its themed accommodation. With several hotels located directly in the parkEvery stay becomes a journey through time. Whether you want to sleep in a Roman villaa medieval castle or a city of the XVIIIᵉ centuryPuy du Fou offers a range of accommodation options that prolong the magic of the shows, while ensuring a pleasant stay. modern comfort and exceptional service quality.

Themed accommodations for all tastes

The park offers six hotelseach immersing visitors in a different era:

• The Gallo-Roman Villa Immerse yourself in Roman antiquity with Pompei-inspired architecture.
• Camp du Drap d'Or Luxury rooms inspired by the Renaissance, with decor reminiscent of Francis I and Henry VIII.
• The Islands of Clovis Village on stilts inspired by the Merovingian period.
• The Citadel Fortified medieval hotel with warm, authentic rooms.
• Le Logis de Lescure : A XVIIIᵉ century ambience, with just four suites for a more intimate experience.
• The Grand Siècle A tribute to Louis XIV with a sumptuous decoration worthy of the Palace of Versailles.

Why stay at a Puy du Fou hotel?

Sleeping at Puy du Fou allows take full advantage of the park experiencewith privileged access and exclusive services. All hotels are in the immediate vicinity performances and offer theme restaurantsThe park's hotels offer gastronomic delights in keeping with the eras represented. What's more, booking a stay at one of the park's hotels guarantees access to tickets and the best seats for the shows. Visit accommodation at Puy du Fou is much more than a simple overnight stay: it's a prolonging the historic adventureA unique and unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

As you can see, the Puy du Fou stands out as a historical theme park offering emotionally rich experiences and truly magical moments. Whether your interest lies in on historyWhether you're looking for a new and memorable experience, the Puy du Fou promises to capture your interest and deliver unexpected surprises.

To ensure that your visit to the Puy du Fou is a success, take into consideration various aspects such as choosing the period of your visit, purchasing tickets, programming shows, discovering the themed villages, enjoying immersive experiences, accommodation options, checking rates, taking part in night-time events, not forgetting the services on offer and the accessibility of the site. We hope this article has provided you with all the information and advice you need to organize your stay at Le Puy du Fou. Don't hesitate, book your tickets and accommodation now, and embark on the Puy du Fou adventure!

Looking for other adventures in the Vendée? Discover the Vendée Globe!

FAQ

Where is the Puy du Fou?

Visit Puy du Fou is located in Vendéein the Pays de la Loiremore precisely at Les Epesses (85590)at approximately :

• 30 km from Cholet
• 90 km from Nantes
• 100 km from La Rochelle
  This historical theme park attracts millions of visitors every year thanks to its immersive shows.

What to do around Le Puy du Fou

After or before your visit to the park, you can explore several nearby tourist sites:

1. Discover the Bocage Vendéen

The Puy du Fou is surrounded by beautiful bocage countryside, with numerous hiking trails. hiking and bike rides.

2. Visit Château de Tiffauges

• Located in 30 minutes from Puy du Fouthis medieval castle is famous for having been the residence of Gilles de Raiscompanion of Joan of Arc.
• Numerous medieval entertainment including demonstrations of war machines.

3. Explore La Cité des Oiseaux in Les Landes-Genusson

• Nature reserve ideal for observing migratory birds.
• Educational trails for nature lovers.

4. Walking in Clisson

• Architectural city ItalianLoire-Atlantique's "little Tuscany".
• À 50 minutes from the parkperfect for a cultural getaway.

5. Discover Les Herbiers and Mont des Alouettes

• Magnificent panorama of the Vendée bocage.
• Restored windmill.

6. Spend a day in La Roche-sur-Yon

• À 1 hour from Puy du Fouthe town offers a number of beautiful walks around the Place Napoléonwith its famous interactive mechanical animals.

7. Visit the Marais Poitevin

• À 1h30 from the parkdiscover Green Venice by boat or canoe through its peaceful canals.

Who created the Puy du Fou?

Visit Puy du Fou was created in 1978 by Philippe de VilliersFrench politician and writer.
Originally, it was only the Cinescéniea night-time show recounting the history of the Vendée.
In view of its immense success, a theme park was opened in 1989with grandiose shows on different periods of history.

Today, the Puy du Fou is run by Nicolas de Villiersson of the founder, and continues to innovate with spectacular creations recognized the world over.

When is the best time to go to Puy du Fou?

Choosing the best time to visit the Puy du Fou essentially depends on what you want to do. If the "Les Noces de Feu" night show is what you're looking for, summer (June, July, August) is a must. For those who prefer a less crowded setting and lower prices, spring (April, May) or autumn (September to November) will be perfect, offering the added bonus of colorful landscapes in a pleasant climate.

When will the Puy du Fou open in 2025?

In 2025, the gates of the Puy du Fou will be open from April 05 to November 1, 2025. Expect magical evenings with "La Cinéscénie", scheduled for 28 performances from June 1 to September 14.

What shows can't you miss at Puy du Fou?

The must-sees at Le Puy du Fou are those that stand out for their emotional intensity and immersion in historical eras or fantastic worlds. Don't miss "Le Mime et l'Etoile" (new in 2023, named "Best Show in the World" in 2024), "Le Dernier Panache" (the moving story of a naval officer during the French Revolution), and "Les Noces de Feu" (a night-time show combining fire and water).

How long does it take to visit the Puy du Fou?

It's best to allow at least 2 days to fully explore the Puy du Fou, between shows, period villages and various activities. For the best organized visit, don't hesitate to use the Puy du Fou mobile application.