Castle of the Dukes of Brittany: reviews and practical tips

+19
recos
4.5/5 4 reviews
4, place Marc-Elder , 44000 Nantes, France
4, place Marc-Elder , 44000 Nantes, France
Château des Ducs de Bretagne
Vue sur la Tour Lu
Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne

The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany at a glance

This essential historic site sits right in the heart of Nantes. The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany functions both as a fortress, complete with defensive ramparts and moats, and a residential palace featuring a comfortable Renaissance-style living space. Spanning five centuries of history, the site now houses the informative city museum. You will notice the elegance of its flamboyant Gothic architecture, the pleasant reflecting pool, and the sweeping views from the top of its towers.

Built by François II, the last Duke of Brittany, in the late 15th century, the castle was primarily inhabited and regularly improved by his daughter Anne. She was twice Queen of France, having married Charles VIII at age 13 and later Louis XII. In 1598, Henri IV signed the Edict of Nantes here, which granted religious, civil, and political rights to Protestants. In later years, the structure served as a prison, a barracks, and an arsenal. Currently owned by Nantes Métropole (the Nantes metropolitan authority), the site hosts regular temporary exhibitions and a variety of events. Check the city website or the local tourist office for schedules.

The In the Heart of Anne of Brittany's Castle tour guides you through 20 stages to help you understand daily life here during the 16th century. Plan for 30 minutes to 90 minutes for this walkthrough. If you prefer to explore on your own, look for the dormer windows of the Grand Logis, the coat of arms, and the Golden Crown Tower. The urban history museum is organized into seven major periods, covering the castle, Nantes and Brittany up to the 17th century, the slave trade, the Industrial Revolution, the world wars, and the contemporary Atlantic metropolis. If you visit in the summer, the Fest-noz festival, a celebration of Breton nights, focuses on local music and culture.

Birdwatchers should keep an eye out, as falcons have been spotted hunting within the castle walls.

Opening hours

Open daily in July and August from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM the rest of the year.
Hours are indicative and subject to change

Reviews of Castle of the Dukes of Brittany

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Summary of 4 reviews
4.5/5
Average rating
+19
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.8
As a couple
4.5
With friends
4.5

Avygeo ranking

#193
in the world
#171
in Europe
#91
in France
#1
in Nantes

A symbol of Nantes history

The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany is truly impressive from the outside.
Its imposing walls and towers give a glimpse of its medieval past.
The ramparts and the gardens surrounding it offer lovely walks, ideal for strolling and admiring the architecture.
Even without visiting the interior, the castle is a symbol of the history of Nantes that you shouldn't miss.

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Nothing better than castle gardens for reading in the sun in summer!

Lovely castle where it is possible to stop for free. The gardens are perfect for a little break after walking around the city center. You can find ducks, turtles, and sheep there. The ramparts are also free, just like the inner courtyard. Only the museum has an entrance fee. In the summer, I spend many afternoons in these gardens.

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A fascinating history museum

The castle in Nantes is impressive with its two massive towers that contrast with the sumptuous carved decorations in its courtyard. The walk along the ramparts offers a beautiful view of the city and the building itself. Inside, the site houses temporary exhibitions and the huge history museum. The sections dedicated to slavery and the 20th century, which give a different perspective on the city, are particularly interesting. Plan on at least two hours for the visit.

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Free tour of the courtyard and ramparts

Right in the center of Nantes, the castle is worth a quick visit. Easy access, not too crowded, and it's free to visit the inner courtyard, the moats (with turtles and ducks), and even the ramparts if I remember correctly.
A bit of a surprising scene, we saw a falcon flying with a small bird in its talons and then landing to start its meal. Thug life.

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