12 Must-See Châteaux to Visit in the South of France

Discover 12 stunning castles on the French Riviera, from historic ruins to seaside fortresses, with tips on entry, location, and what to see.

The South of France is known for its beaches and luxury, but it also hides a remarkable collection of historic châteaux. Scattered across the French Riviera and Provence, these castles offer a journey through time—from medieval fortresses perched on cliffs to aristocratic estates turned into art museums or wine domains. Whether you’re interested in architecture, panoramic views, cultural heritage, or quiet gardens, there’s a château that fits your travel style. Many are located within short drives from major cities like Nice, Marseille, and Cannes, making them accessible day trips. This guide features 12 of the most captivating châteaux in the region, complete with entry fees, opening hours, and location details. Some are free to visit, others host seasonal events, and a few even include wine tastings or spa experiences. Here’s everything you need to plan your cultural stops along the Côte d’Azur.

Château de La Napoule – Mandelieu-la-Napoule

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Mandelieu-la-Napoule, this 14th-century fortress offers a unique blend of medieval architecture and artistic fantasy. Restored in the 20th century by American sculptor Henry Clews and his wife Marie, the château now houses the Clews art foundation. Visitors can explore lush gardens, oceanfront terraces, and rooms filled with whimsical sculptures and gothic-inspired interiors. The dramatic coastal setting and romantic design make it a favorite spot for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Location: Mandelieu-la-Napoule, near Cannes
Entry: €7 adults / €5 students & seniors / Free under 7
Opening Hours: Daily (except Tuesdays) from 10:00 to 18:00 (seasonal variation)

Château d’If – Marseille

Famous as the prison in Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo, Château d’If sits on a rocky island off the coast of Marseille. Built in the 16th century to defend the harbor, it later became a state prison. The fortress’s austere walls and panoramic sea views offer an immersive historical experience. Accessible by boat, the site provides a dramatic perspective on Marseille and its maritime past.
Location: Frioul Archipelago, Marseille
Entry: €6 adults / €5 reduced / Free under 18
Access: Boat service from Vieux-Port, approx. €11 round trip
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (weather dependent)

Château de la Barben – near Salon-de-Provence

This privately owned medieval château near Salon-de-Provence is one of the oldest in Provence. Surrounded by forest and landscaped gardens, the château offers guided tours through its furnished rooms, chapel, and defensive structures. The site often hosts medieval festivals, falconry shows, and reenactments, making it a lively and educational visit for families. Its blend of authenticity and preservation reflects centuries of Provençal history.
Location: La Barben, near Salon-de-Provence
Entry: €10 adults / €8 children / Free under 3
Opening Hours: Weekends and holidays, 10:00–18:00 (extended in summer)

Château de Grimaud – Gulf of Saint-Tropez

Overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the ruins of the Château de Grimaud provide panoramic views of the Maures mountains and the Mediterranean coastline. Though in ruins, the remains of the 11th-century fortress evoke the region’s feudal past and serve as a striking contrast to the modern luxury of nearby Saint-Tropez. The castle grounds are open to the public and often serve as a venue for outdoor concerts and cultural events during summer.
Location: Grimaud, Var department
Entry: Free access
Opening Hours: Open daily, all year round

Château Val Joanis – Pertuis (Luberon region)

Château Val Joanis is not a defensive fortress but a château-vineyard in the heart of the Luberon. Built on the site of a Roman villa, it’s known for its award-winning wines and exceptional French gardens. Visitors can tour the landscaped grounds, taste wines in the cellar, and enjoy seasonal exhibitions. This is an ideal stop for wine lovers seeking architectural charm and Provençal countryside tranquility.
Location: Pertuis, Vaucluse
Entry: Garden visit €7 / Wine tasting free
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00–13:00 & 15:00–18:00

Château de Nice (Castle Hill) – Nice

Although the original Château de Nice no longer stands, Castle Hill (Colline du Château) remains one of the most iconic viewpoints in the city. The site was once home to a fortified citadel destroyed in the 18th century by order of Louis XIV. Today, the area is a landscaped public park offering panoramic views over Nice, its old town, and the Baie des Anges. A waterfall, archaeological ruins, and scenic walking paths make it a popular escape from the urban bustle.
Location: Colline du Château, Nice
Entry: Free access
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:30–18:00 (until 20:00 in summer)

Château Grimaldi (Picasso Museum) – Antibes

Located in the old town of Antibes, Château Grimaldi is a 14th-century fortress turned museum that now houses one of the world’s key collections of Pablo Picasso’s work. The artist lived and painted here in 1946, donating several pieces to the city. Today, the museum features not only Picasso’s art but also Mediterranean archaeology and modern art collections. The terrace offers stunning views over the sea and the Cap d’Antibes. The château is a blend of historic architecture and 20th-century creativity.
Location: Antibes, Alpes-Maritimes
Entry: €8 adults / €3 under 18 and students / Free under 10
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00 (closed on Monday)

Château Saint-Martin & Spa – Vence

Unlike other castles on this list, Château Saint-Martin is a luxury hotel built on the ruins of a Knights Templar commandery. Located in the hills above Vence, it offers refined architecture, landscaped gardens, and panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. Guests enjoy a Michelin-starred restaurant, wine cellar, and a spa by La Prairie. Even non-guests can book spa treatments or dine at the hotel. It’s an excellent destination for those seeking a château experience combined with wellness and fine dining.
Location: Vence, Alpes-Maritimes
Entry: No general admission; access via hotel or restaurant booking
Prices: Spa treatments from €150; rooms from €600 per night
Opening Season: Mid-April to October

Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin – Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

This Carolingian castle dates back to the 10th century and offers one of the best-preserved examples of early medieval military architecture on the Riviera. Built into the rock and towering over the coastline between Monaco and Menton, the château offers remarkable views and a compact but rich visitor experience. Highlights include narrow stone staircases, ramparts, and a donjon with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Location: Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Alpes-Maritimes
Entry: €6 adults / €3 students / Free under 6
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–12:00 & 14:00–17:00 (longer hours in summer)

Château d’Èze – Èze

Perched on a cliff over 400 meters above sea level, the Château d’Èze is today home to a luxury hotel with terraced exotic gardens open to the public. While only ruins of the original castle remain, the exotic garden (Jardin Exotique d’Èze) offers panoramic views of the French Riviera, rare cacti and succulents, and sculpted female figures by Jean-Philippe Richard. The setting is perfect for a scenic stop on the drive between Nice and Monaco.
Location: Èze-Village, Alpes-Maritimes
Entry to gardens: €7 adults / €4 students / Free under 12
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00–19:30 (in summer)

Château d’Hyères – Hyères

The Château d’Hyères sits above the medieval center of Hyères and dates back to the 11th century. Though now in ruins, the site offers an immersive walking route through restored fortifications and towers. From the hilltop, visitors enjoy broad views over the city, the Giens Peninsula, and the Îles d’Hyères. Informational panels trace the site’s history, and the peaceful setting makes it ideal for a leisurely hike and historical reflection.
Location: Hyères, Var
Entry: Free access
Opening Hours: Open daily, year-round

Fort du Mont Alban – near Nice

Built in the 16th century to defend the County of Nice from invaders, Fort du Mont Alban is one of the best-preserved military structures in the region. Located on a strategic hilltop east of Nice, the fort offers sweeping views of the Baie des Anges and the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Though interior visits are limited to guided tours, the exterior and lookout are accessible year-round.
Location: Between Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer
Entry: Exterior access free / Interior via guided tour (€6)
Opening Hours: Exterior daily / Guided tours on reservation or during summer

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