Cité Royale de Loches
Explore the Cité Royale de Loches, a majestic medieval fortress and royal residence offering a journey through French history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bustling market atmosphere
Cité Royale de Loches
Best Time
Bustling market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the Cité Royale de Loches, a majestic medieval fortress and royal residence offering a journey through French history.
"A fascinating medieval site overlooking the wonderful City of Loches, perfect for history enthusiasts."
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
The 12 Euro ticket covers both the castle and the dungeon – a great deal for history buffs!
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Wander through the charming old town and follow the marked trail up to the castle for picturesque views. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The imposing Donjon
Loches
Explore the formidable keep, a testament to medieval military architecture. Imagine centuries of history within its stone walls.
Logis Royale
Loches
Wander through the royal apartments, imagining the lives of French royalty who once resided here.
Loches Market Day
Loches town square
Experience the vibrant Saturday market, a bustling hub of local life with a pleasant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Cité Royale de Loches
Understanding Ticket Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
The 12 Euro ticket covers both the castle and the dungeon – a great deal for history buffs!
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Wander through the charming old town and follow the marked trail up to the castle for picturesque views. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ Enjoy Local Dining
The town offers delightful dining options, with some visitors praising the restaurant experience. :knifeforkplate:
🖼️ Louis Delaporte Exhibition
Check out the 'From Loches to Angkor' exhibition if you're interested in art and history. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
The 12 Euro ticket covers both the castle and the dungeon – a great deal for history buffs!
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Wander through the charming old town and follow the marked trail up to the castle for picturesque views. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ Enjoy Local Dining
The town offers delightful dining options, with some visitors praising the restaurant experience. :knifeforkplate:
🖼️ Louis Delaporte Exhibition
Check out the 'From Loches to Angkor' exhibition if you're interested in art and history. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cité Royale de Loches for its impressive medieval architecture and historical significance, particularly the imposing Donjon and the charming town. While many find the combined ticket offers good value, some feel the interior of the Logis Royale has limited exhibits for the price. The Saturday market is a highlight for its lively atmosphere.
"It was my third time, and I am still amaze everytime. The architectural design, the view the entrance. I still love going back when I have time. And it's free, you just need to pay if you want to go inside the Logis Royale. Have fun and enjoy the view. And the staffs are very kind and welcoming."
Misis Valentine
"Without a doubt, one of the most unique hotels I have stayed in. Super friendly staff. Fascinating town. We ate at the restaurant and really enjoyed it. What a treat to find something like this."
Dave Holmes
"Interesting medieval site linked with the Donjon or Keep 5 mins away ,imposing site overlooking the wonderful City of Loches, wander around the rooms inside which are simply furnished as befitting the age of the site.
From Loches to Angkor”: the exhibition dedicated to Louis Delaporte is now on display at the château
Ticket price to this chateau includes access to the Donjon/keep"
MG B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Loches is accessible by car, with parking available in the town. Public transport options include regional trains to nearby stations, followed by a bus or taxi. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The Cité Royale de Loches is a prominent landmark overlooking the town, making it relatively easy to spot. Follow signs for the 'Château de Loches' once you are in the town center.
There are several parking areas available in Loches, some closer to the castle than others. Street parking can be limited, so look for designated parking lots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A combined ticket for the castle (Logis Royale) and the Donjon costs around 12 Euros. Entry to the town and exterior views of the castle are free.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, it's often advisable to check the official Cité Royale de Loches website for online ticket purchasing options to potentially save time.
The ticket typically includes access to the Logis Royale (the royal residence) and the imposing Donjon (keep).
Information on specific discounts is not readily available, but it's worth inquiring about student or group rates if applicable when purchasing tickets.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Cité Royale de Loches website for the most current operating times before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore the Logis Royale with its simply furnished rooms and the formidable Donjon, offering a glimpse into medieval life and history.
A visit to the castle and Donjon can take 2-3 hours. If you also want to explore the town and market, allow for more time.
The historical nature and imposing architecture can be engaging for children. Exploring the Donjon offers a sense of adventure.
Information on guided tours is not explicitly provided, but it's recommended to inquire at the ticket office upon arrival for any available options.
Combine exploring the interiors of the Logis Royale and Donjon with a walk through the charming old town and, if possible, visit on market day for a lively atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the castle from various viewpoints in the town, especially during golden hour. The ramparts and the Donjon offer dramatic perspectives.
Photography is generally allowed inside historical sites, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for both wide exterior shots and interior details. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the scale of the Donjon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Logis Royale might be less immediately exciting for very young children, the overall historical context and the picturesque town of Loches provide plenty to see and do. Consider visiting on a Saturday market day for added sensory stimulation and a lively atmosphere. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the castle grounds and town streets.
🏰 History Enthusiasts
Delve into the stories of the figures who shaped French history within these walls. The exhibition dedicated to Louis Delaporte, 'From Loches to Angkor,' adds another layer of historical and artistic interest. Visiting on a weekday afternoon can provide a more contemplative experience, allowing you to fully absorb the historical significance of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Medieval France
The Donjon, on the other hand, stands as a formidable example of medieval military architecture. Its imposing structure and strategic location highlight its defensive purpose throughout centuries of conflict. Exploring the Donjon provides a stark contrast to the Logis Royale, emphasizing the dual nature of power and defense in historical French strongholds.
Beyond the ticketed areas, the charming town of Loches itself is worth exploring. Its narrow streets, historic buildings, and the Saturday market contribute to a rich, immersive experience. The combination of the royal residence, the defensive keep, and the picturesque town makes Cité Royale de Loches a comprehensive historical destination.
Navigating Your Visit: Tickets and Timings
It's wise to consider the time of year and day for your visit. Saturday market days bring a lively atmosphere to the town square, offering a vibrant cultural experience alongside your historical exploration. However, these days can also mean higher visitor numbers. For a more tranquil experience, weekday afternoons might be preferable, allowing for a more leisurely pace as you wander through the castle and keep.
While specific online booking details aren't always prominent, checking the official Cité Royale de Loches website for current opening hours and potential online ticket purchasing is always a good strategy to streamline your visit and avoid any last-minute queues.
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