Tours of the Chateau of Saumur

The jewel of the Loire Valley castle

Château de Saumur, majestically situated overlooking the town and the Loire, invites you to discover its history and unique architecture.

The château de Saumur is one of the most iconic castles in the Loire Valley. With its fairytale silhouette, crenellated towers and princess-like appearance, it perfectly embodies the romantic image of the Loire Valley castles.

Originally a medieval fortress built in the 10th century by the Counts of Anjou, it was transformed in the 15th century into a pleasure residence by the Dukes of Anjou, then into a museum in the 19th century. Today, it houses the Horse Museum, celebrating the equestrian history of Saumur, renowned for its national riding school and its military setting.

The tour begins in the main courtyard, surrounded by Renaissance buildings, then leads to the Guards' Room and the ducal apartments, where furniture, tapestries, and works of art tell the story of five centuries of history. The terraces offer breathtaking views of the Loire River, the city, and the surrounding vineyards, while the terraced gardens invite visitors to enjoy a bucolic stroll.

The castle also offers temporary exhibitions and activities for children, such as workshops on heraldry or fun trails. Its architecture, a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, and its history linked to the French royal family (notably the Dukes of Anjou) make it a must-see.

• Not to be missed: The view from the keep and the collection of carriages at the Horse Museum.

A castle where history, architecture and legend blend together for an unforgettable visit.

During your visit to Saumur Castle, you will be able to:

• Admire the magnificent panorama of the town of Saumur and the Loire from the castle terrace.
• Explore the main courtyard, a place steeped in history.
• Discover in the exhibition rooms the ceramics (one of the finest collections of earthenware in France), the tapestries (from the 15th to the 18th century, most of which are listed as historical monuments).
• See a selection of the finest pieces from the museum's equestrian collections, which bear witness to the rich history of the castle.

Enjoy a 30-minute commented presentation in French and English on the history of the site and its architecture. This service is included in the access price.

You can also take the guided tour (in French) of the collections at 10:45 am and 3 pm (subject to guide availability).

The Château-museum is a listed historical monument. Visiting conditions can be difficult. Access to the castle's main courtyard and upper floors is only possible via stairs.

To ensure the smooth flow of visitors and to protect the artworks, strollers, baby carriers, and large bags are not permitted inside the castle. Lockers are available at reception.

Tours of the Chateau of Saumur

Visiting hours:

The Château-Musée is open to the public from February 8 to March 31, Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5:30pm.

From April 1st to June 30th and from September 1st to September 30th, Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays Mondays from 10am to 6pm.

From July 1st to August 31st, 7 days a week, from 10am to 7pm. Open on July 14th and August 15th.

From October 1st to December 31st, Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Closed December 25th and January 1st.
Annual closure from January 1st to February 6th, 2026.

Group visits:
Guided tours are offered year-round, by reservation.

Prices:

• Full price €9.50
• Reduced price €7.00
  (Ages 7-18, high school students, apprentices, university students, holders of a disability card and their companions, companions holding a Muséo Pass card, SNCF TER Pays de la Loire users with a valid season ticket)
• Free for children under 7 years old
• Family rate €26.50 (+1.50€ per additional child)
  (2 adults and 2 children)
• Group rate for adults 7.30€
  (from 12 people)
• Reduced Rate other type of group 6.00€
  (from 12 people, 7-18 years, RMP)

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