Audio Guide of The Dukes of Brittany Castle

The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany has opening hours that vary by season. Generally, the courtyard and ramparts are accessible from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., while the museum opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes one hour earlier. It is closed on Mondays, except in July and August. I strongly recommend checking the exact opening hours and closing days on its official website before your visit.

Access to the castle courtyard and ramparts is completely free, which is fantastic for a walk. However, to enter the Nantes History Museum, which is inside the castle, you need to buy a ticket. The standard price is €8 (full rate), with discounts and free admission for certain groups. You can see the details in its pricing section.

If you only want to walk along the ramparts and through the courtyard, one to one and a half hours will be enough to enjoy the atmosphere and the views. But if you plan to visit the Nantes History Museum thoroughly, I suggest allowing at least 2 to 3 hours. There is a great deal to see and read if you want to immerse yourself in the history of Nantes.

The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany is a crucial historic castle because it was the seat of the Dukes of Brittany from the 13th to the 16th century, and it played a central role in the annexation of Brittany to France. Its Gothic and Renaissance façade, as well as the famous Edict of Nantes signed here, make it an emblem of Breton and French history. It is a silent witness to countless key events.

To avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, I would recommend visiting the castle in spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). As for the best time of day, early morning (right when it opens) or late afternoon are usually quieter and offer beautiful light for photos. Avoid summer afternoons if you do not like crowds.

Yes, the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany makes an effort to be accessible. The courtyard and the ground floor of the museum are wheelchair accessible, and there are lifts and ramps to reach some exhibitions. However, due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may have uneven surfaces or be more difficult to access. It is recommended to consult the accessibility section or call the castle directly for more detailed information if you have specific needs. Their contact number is +33 (0)2 51 17 95 00.

The castle is located right in the centre of Nantes, so there is plenty to explore within walking distance. Do not miss Passage Pommeraye, a magnificent shopping arcade, or the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, including the Great Elephant and the Carrousel of the Marine Worlds. Nantes Cathedral is also just a stone's throw away and well worth a visit.

Of course. First, wear comfortable shoes, as you will walk quite a lot around the ramparts and the museum. If you are visiting in high season, consider buying museum tickets online in advance to avoid queues. I also suggest taking time to stroll through the outer gardens and having a coffee in one of the nearby squares to soak up the atmosphere of Nantes.