Your Hotel du Continent recommends delving into the secrets of a lesser-known aspect of Paris; the city’s châteaux. You don’t need to go to Versailles, Fontainebleau or the Loire Valley to discover magnificent French castles. Here are our favourites, and they’re just a few streets away...

 

The châteaux of Paris: history and architecture

Close to the Louvre and the Palais-Royal, Paris has witnessed the construction - and destruction - of many prestigious buildings over the years. Renaissance, Regency, classical or neoclassical, they are magnificent examples of architecture. Why not start your journey well back in time with one of the oldest, the Château de la Reine Blanche? Situated in the 13th arrondissement, this designated historical monument dates to the 15th century. Although renovated over the centuries, it still fascinates with its towers and turrets, cantilevers, galleries, stairs and coach passage. Continue your tour of the castles of Paris with the Château des Ternes, with its beautiful classically inspired façade, the character of which is curiously enhanced by the narrow street which now cuts through it.

 

Each Parisian château tells a story

Your Hotel du Continent team also suggests a visit to one of the most majestic of these stately Parisian buildings, the Château de la Muette. Although dating from the beginning of the 20th century, this chateau’s superb neoclassical architecture was created to a 19th century design and stands in exquisitely maintained gardens. Head into the heart of Montmartre to see the Château des Brouillards, which was a meeting place for artists and writers during the 19th and 20th centuries, from Hugo to Cocteau via Renoir. Finally, the Pavillon Carré de Baudoin conceals within its classical facade a cultural art centre dedicated to contemporary creation.

Although the châteaux of Paris are mostly away from the typical tourist trail, they are undoubtedly worth your time, offering the opportunity to discover an authentic Paris steeped in history during your stay at the Hôtel du Continent.

 

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Crédit photo : © Siren-Com - Wikimedia Commons

Hotel du Continent, a charming hotel in the heart of Paris