Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye

This stone château rises among calm, open gardens that stretch toward the Seine Valley, with wide views over the forest and the rolling hills that surround the estate.

First built in the 12th century and later rebuilt under François I, the château served as a royal residence for many centuries before the court moved to Versailles in the 1600s.

The archaeology museum housed inside displays objects that tell the story of humanity, from prehistoric tools and carvings to sculptures from the Iron Age and Gaulish warriors.

You can reach the château by RER train from Paris in under an hour, and the site is open daily except Tuesday, while the park stays open free of charge from morning until evening.

Guided tours take visitors onto the château rooftops, where you can see a full circle of views stretching from the Eiffel Tower to the wooded hills and the Seine River valley below.

Inception: 1124

Architects: Pierre Chambiges

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Address: place Charles de Gaulle

Opening Hours: Monday 10:00-17:00; Wednesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

Phone: +33139101300

Website: https://musee-archeologienationale.fr

GPS coordinates: 48.89806,2.09639

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:00