When you think of Provence, you think of chateaux and castles, sunny days, good wine and sweet-smelling lavender fields. Perched on hilltops and surviving centuries of history, the chateaux are one of the things which makes this area so charming. The old ramparts and fortresses still standing today speak to how impenetrable these castles were.

While some castles are privately owned and may be available to hire or stay in, there are several which are still accessible to the public. These include chateaux which were once homes to popes, royalty, nobility and influential families. So where to start? What are the best castles and chateaux to visit in Provence?

  • 1

    Palais des Papes

    The former home to 9 different popes

    Palais des Papes
    • History

    For largely political reasons, the largest Gothic palace has been the home of 9 popes from Clement V in 1305 to Benedict XIII in 1429. The pope’s chapels and private chapels house several invaluable frescos pointing to the innovative skill of French and Italian schools, including works from Matteo Giovannetti and Simone Martini.

    Located in Avignon, the Palais des Papes also features gardens which have only recently been opened to visitors. This offers a space for relaxation and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These intimate gardens also give visitors a deeper insight into the popes’ private lives. A Histopad digital tablet is included in your visit, providing a multimedia and immersive tour.

    Location: Pl. du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

    Phone: +33 (0)4 32 74 32 74

    Map
  • 2

    Château de Tarascon

    Journey back to the 15th century

    Château de Tarascon
    • History

    You’ll feel like you’re travelling back in time as you cross the bridge spanning the moat and enter the elegant main courtyard. You’ll then get your first glimpse of the Gothic-style arches and ribbed vaults. Keep your eyes peeled to see if you can spot any animals on the consoles such as chimeras, eagles and bats.

    Located in the Bouches-de-Rhône department, the castle also champions both modern and historical art. In the outhouses, you’ll find a number of pharmacy pots and urns from the former Tarascon hospital in the 18th century. You can also see temporary exhibitions from contemporary artists in the René d’Anjou Art Centre. You may even spot some graffiti from when the castle was a prison.

    Location: 5 Bd du Roi René, 13150 Tarascon, France

    Open: Hours vary by season

    Phone: +33 (0)4 90 91 01 93

    Map
  • 3

    Château des Baux de Provence

    An ancient medieval fortress in the heart of Provence

    Château des Baux de Provence
    • History

    Perched on the mountains and towering above the village, Chateau des Baux de Provence’s natural defences have always made it a useful asset with the first recorded mention of it dating back to 910 AD. Over the years, defences were strengthened, and it has been used as a stronghold by kings, rebels and important families.

    Located in Baux de Provence, 30 km south of Avignon, it is now also home to 3 reconstructed weapons. There are events running throughout the day so you may be able to see demonstrations of these war machines, see a sketch or take a guided tour. And of course, being so high up there will be plenty of panoramic views to take in.

    Location: Grand Rue, 13520 Les Baux-de-Provence, France

    Open: Daily from 9 am to 7.30 pm

    Phone: +33 (0)4 90 49 20 02

    Map
  • 4

    Chateau d'Ansouis

    Explore typically Provencal gardens

    Chateau d'Ansouis
    • History

    The Château d’Ansouis dates back to the 10th century but has undergone several renovations over the years, particularly as its original defensive purpose was lost. Today, you can take a guided tour of the castle including the main façade which dates back to the 17th century. You’ll notice when different parts of the castle were built as you see the distinctive architecture styles from the Medieval and Renaissance eras.

    Sitting on the hill above the village, Château d’Ansouis also has beautiful gardens which reflect the typical Provencal style. The views from the terrace of the surrounding countryside are also spectacular. Now classified as a Historic Monument, Château d’Ansouis is a jewel of Provencal heritage.

    Location: Rue du Cartel, 84240, Ansouis, France

    Open: Thursday–Sunday from 3 pm to 4.30 pm

    Phone: +33 (0)6 84 62 64 34

    Map
  • 5

    Châteauneuf-du-Pape

    A ruined castle in the heart of the wine region

    Châteauneuf-du-Pape
    • History

    Originally built as a summer residence for the pope, Châteauneuf-du-Pape was sadly largely destroyed during World War II. However, it is still well worth a visit as the ruins are quite evocative, including seeing the remains of the old wine cellar. The castle also offers beautiful views of the city and the distinctive Provence countryside.

    Located in a village with the same name, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is perhaps better known for its wine than the actual castle. There are over 350 wine producers in the region which can use the coveted “Chauteauneuf-de-Pape” appellation and 13 different grape varieties are used in the process. Take some time to sample the local produce at Vinadea or go directly to the vineyards.

    Location: Château des Papes, 84230 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France

    Phone: +33 (0)4 90 83 71 08

    Map
  • 6

    Château de Grimaud

    The Little Venice of Provence

    Château de Grimaud
    • History

    The emblem of this charming village, Grimaud Castle even features on the coat of arms. While a lot of the history of Grimaud Castle is unknown, we do know that these medieval ruins date back to at least 1058 AD. Now classified as a historical monument, the castle ruins also offer stunning views of the village. An icon in the area, the castle can be seen from Cogolin, Gassin and Saint-Tropez.

    Located in a village which shares its name, it still retains its medieval charm with cobblestone streets and stone walls. The village also houses the Museum of Cultural Heritage, local vineyards and night markets at the port. It’s even voted one of the places most worth a detour in France.

    Location: Château de, 83310 Grimaud, France

    Phone: +33 (0)4 94 55 43 83

    Map
  • 7

    Château de Beaucaire

    An undiscovered gem

    Château de Beaucaire
    • History

    A medieval fortress hilltop site, today the Château de Beaucaire comprises of a park and the ruins of the ancient castle, including defensive walls, towers and archaeological remains. This fortress was one of the largest in the Middle Ages but was unfortunately destroyed in the 17th century by the order of Richelieu. The castle keep is particularly impressive and includes Saint-Louis Chapel which is largely intact.

    Located in the commune of Beaucaire in the Gard area, you can also access the top of the long defensive wall lining the northwest edge of the fortress. Here you can look out across the Rhône and the Tarascon castle across the river. Entry to the castle is free.

    Location: Pl. Raimond VII, 30300 Beaucaire, France

    Open: Wednesday–Sunday from 9.30 am to 6 pm

    Phone: +33 (0)4 66 59 26 57

    Map
  • 8

    Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

    A 10th century castle on the Mediterranean

    Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
    • History

    Perched on top of a 300 m hill, Roquebrune castle boasts incredible views of terracotta rooftops, the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and over to Monaco. This atmospheric castle will make you feel as though you’re still in the Middle Ages with its evocative props.

    Located in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the village, which was once encapsulated by the castle, is incredibly charming and features restaurants offering local produce and wine. The castle itself is now classified as a historical monument and features the oldest dungeon in France. A free audio guide is included with your tour but be prepared to tackle a few climbs as you ascend.

    Location: Pl. William Ingram Village, 06190 Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France

    Open: Thursday–Tuesday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Wednesdays)

    Phone: +33 (0)4 93 35 07 22

    Map
  • 9

    Château de Sauvan

    Incredible gardens all year round

    Château de Sauvan
    • History

    Built in the first half of the 18th century, the castle was owned by several wealthy and influential families before falling into disrepair in the 1980s. The current owners have thoughtfully restored this castle and have included some of its original furniture.

    Located in the town of Mane, one of the castle’s major attractions is its gardens which have been classified as a Jardin remarquable, or one of France’s Remarkable Gardens. The gardens include water features, statues, swans and peacocks. While the castle is privately owned, it is normally open to the public but please check before you visit.

    Location: Château de Sauvan, Route d’Apt, 04300 Mane, France

    Open: Hours vary by season

    Phone: +33 (0)6 70 03 27 04

    Map
  • 10

    Château de Bellet

    Discover local wines

    Château de Bellet
    • History

    Steeped in history, the Château de Bellet is a unique location, surrounded by mountains and the sea. In the 18th century, the Barons of Bellet started planting vineyards on the hills which now produce some of the best wines in the region. The chapel, built in 1873, speaks to the vineyards’ long history and now acts as the reception, store and tasting room.

    Located at the peak of the AOP Bellet in the hills of Nice, Château de Bellet is now a haven for wine lovers. There are several activities you can indulge in such as guided tours, walks around the vineyard, enjoying glasses of wine on the terrace or playing a game of petanque, a traditional French game.

    Location: 482 Chem. de Saquier, 06200 Nice, France

    Open: Hours vary by season

    Phone: +33 (0)4 93 37 81 57

    Map