Château d'Azay-le-Rideau Tickets | Loire Valley Castles

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Azay-le-Rideau Castle
Azay-le-Rideau - The Biencourt salon
Azay-le-Rideau Interiors
Azay-le-Rideau - The Renaissance Room
The Grand Staricase - Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Azay-le-Rideau - Garden
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
Azay-le-Rideau - The Biencourt salon
Azay-le-Rideau Interiors
Azay-le-Rideau - The Renaissance Room
The Grand Staricase - Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Azay-le-Rideau - Garden
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
Azay-le-Rideau - The Biencourt salon
Azay-le-Rideau Interiors
Azay-le-Rideau - The Renaissance Room
The Grand Staricase - Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Azay-le-Rideau Castle
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Azay-le-Rideau - Garden
Tickets
4.4(273)

Azay-le-Rideau Castle & Gardens Tickets

from
€13
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Head to the Azay-le-Rideau standing in the calm waters of the Indre River and surrounded by parkland and open woodland. Please find the map of the Loire Valley castles here.
  • Built in the early 16th century by a wealthy financier, Gilles Berthelot, the Azay-le-Rideau Castle is smaller and less 'ostentatious' than many of the castles in the region and is a masterpiece of French & Italian architecture that helped herald the Renaissance style into France.
  • Situated on the Indre River, the picturesque Azay-le-Rideau Castle provides for a great reflection of itself. Don't miss out on the photo opportunities here!
  • Explore the bedrooms which are particularly ornate with silk drapes, gold and silver embroidery, fine tapestries on the walls, and as well as a selection of paintings.
  • Stroll through the lovely old streets, artisan shops, and along the beautiful River Indre, at Azay-le-Rideau.
  • Head to the Azay-le-Rideau standing in the calm waters of the Indre River and surrounded by parkland and open woodland. Please find the map of the Loire Valley castles here.
  • Built in the early 16th century by a wealthy financier, Gilles Berthelot, the Azay-le-Rideau Castle is smaller and less 'ostentatious' than many of the castles in the region and is a masterpiece of French & Italian architecture that helped herald the Renaissance style into France.
  • Situated on the Indre River, the picturesque Azay-le-Rideau Castle provides for a great reflection of itself. Don't miss out on the photo opportunities here!
  • Explore the bedrooms which are particularly ornate with silk drapes, gold and silver embroidery, fine tapestries on the walls, and as well as a selection of paintings.
  • Stroll through the lovely old streets, artisan shops, and along the beautiful River Indre, at Azay-le-Rideau.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Azay-le-Rideau Castle
  • Tip: Don't miss the wine press and its interpretation spaces filled with paintings and carvings!
  • Please note that there is free admission during the following days: European Heritage Days on the third weekend of Sep, and every first Sunday of the month from Nov to Mar.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled. However, you can use them any time until 13 May, 2027.
  • These tickets are valid until 13 May, 2027.
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Aerial View of Chateau de Villandry gardens
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Visitors at wine fields
Woman walking around a winery
Villandry gardens, Azay-le-Rideau chateau, and Vouvray vineyard tour in Loire Valley, France.
Wine bottles in a cellar
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Aerial View of Chateau de Villandry gardens
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Visitors at wine fields
Woman walking around a winery
Villandry gardens, Azay-le-Rideau chateau, and Vouvray vineyard tour in Loire Valley, France.
Wine bottles in a cellar
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Aerial View of Chateau de Villandry gardens
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Chateau de Villandry gardens
Visitors at wine fields
Woman walking around a winery
Villandry gardens, Azay-le-Rideau chateau, and Vouvray vineyard tour in Loire Valley, France.
Wine bottles in a cellar
Guided Tours
NEW

From Amboise or Tours: Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau & Vouvray Full-Day Guided Tour

from
€179
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
9 hr.
  • Hop on 8-seater minivan from either Ambroise or Tours, according to your choice, and go on a guided tour to explore Villandry castle, Azay-le-Rideau and
  • En route, admire the Cher and Indre rivers and charming towns, with your English-speaking guide enlightening you about the region's history.
  • One of the highlights of your day awaits with the exploration of Villandry Castle's exquisite formal gardens—a masterpiece of beautifully manicured landscapes.
  • Swing by the Azay-le-Rideau Castle, known for its unique straight staircase, and see your reflection mirrored on the Indre River.
  • Enhance your understanding of winemaking as you tour the traditional vat room, culminating in a tasting of 4 delightful local wines.
  • Hop on 8-seater minivan from either Ambroise or Tours, according to your choice, and go on a guided tour to explore Villandry castle, Azay-le-Rideau and
  • En route, admire the Cher and Indre rivers and charming towns, with your English-speaking guide enlightening you about the region's history.
  • One of the highlights of your day awaits with the exploration of Villandry Castle's exquisite formal gardens—a masterpiece of beautifully manicured landscapes.
  • Swing by the Azay-le-Rideau Castle, known for its unique straight staircase, and see your reflection mirrored on the Indre River.
  • Enhance your understanding of winemaking as you tour the traditional vat room, culminating in a tasting of 4 delightful local wines.

Inclusions

  • Full-day guided tour from Amboise or Tours: (optional)

  • 8-seater air-conditioned vehicles
  • Expert English-speaking local guide
  • 4/5 wine tasting
  • Entrance fees
  • Tip: Try Vouvray wines' diversity by sampling across sweetness levels: sec (dry), demi-sec (off-dry), moelleux (semi-sweet), and doux (sweet).
  • It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as this experience involves a fair amount of walking.
  • Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography and tripods are a no-go inside the venue.
  • A minimum of 2 participants is required for a tour. If the count is not met, the tour might get cancelled.
  • Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 4 years.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Loire ValleyChâteau d'Azay-le-Rideau Tickets

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau | A multifaceted diamond set in the Indre river

The Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is a Renaissance-style castle located in the town of Azay-le-Rideau in the Indre-et-Loire department of France. Built between 1518 and 1527, it is one of the most picturesque châteaux of the Loire Valley, renowned for its elegant architecture and beautiful setting on an island in the Indre River.

Here is everything you need to know about planning a visit to the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau in France’s Loire Valley. 

Things to know before booking your tickets to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau 

  • Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility. Those with disabilities can also enjoy free entry to the attraction. 
  • You can enjoy free entry to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau on the third weekend of September, and the first Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December. 
  • If you are under 18 years old, an EU national, or a non-EU resident in France between 18 and 25 years old, you can enjoy free entry to the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau. However, you will need to show a valid ID proof on the day of your visit.
  • You can club your visit to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau with additional castles in the Loire Valley to save more on ticket prices.  
  • If you are visiting Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, opt for skip-the-line tickets that give you priority access to the castle on the day of your visit. 
  • Though your Château d'Azay-le-Rideau tickets cannot be canceled, they have an extended validity. The validity varies according to the ticket you purchase. For more information on this, please refer to your ticket vouchers.

Loire Valley Castles

  • Distance from Paris: Approximately 270 km (168 miles)
  • Nearest train station: Azay-le-Rideau, Rue de Pineau, 37190 Azay-le-Rideau, France
  • Nearest airport: Tours Val de Loire Airport, 40 Rue de l'Aéroport, 37100 Tours, France
  • Nearest castles: Villandry
  • Nearest cities: Tours, Chinon, Saumur

Why visit the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
  • French Renaissance gem: The château is a stunning example of early French Renaissance architecture, blending medieval defensive elements with elegant Renaissance aesthetics. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stonework, sculpted dormer windows, and the grand staircase at the castle. 
  • Early 16th-century marvel: Built in the early 16th century by Gilles Berthelot, the château has witnessed centuries of French history and offers a glimpse into the lives of the nobility during the Renaissance. The rooms are furnished with period pieces, tapestries, and artworks that transport visitors back in time.
  • Unique location: The château is uniquely situated on an island in the Indre River, surrounded by water, which creates stunning reflections and enhances its fairy-tale appearance. Located about 25 kilometers from Tours, the château is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a convenient day trip from major cities in the Loire Valley.
  • Family-friendly: The château is a great destination for families, with activities and tours suitable for children and adults alike. The serene environment of the château and its gardens offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate.

Which Château d'Azay-le-Rideau ticket is best for you?

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

If you are on a budget

Go for: Standard tickets 

Duration: Flexible

Guide: No

  • With standard entry tickets, you get full access to the castle at a budget-friendly price. 
  • Explore more  by clubbing your visit to the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau with other castles in the Loire Valley such as Amboise, Chambord and Chenonceau. 

Recommended tours

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

If you are an enthusiastic explorer

Go for: Combo tickets 

Duration: Flexible 

Guide: No

  • Explore more with combo tickets that let you visit other Loire Valley castles, such as Chenonceau and Chambord with the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau. 
  • With combo tickets you can explore other castles in the Loire Valley as well. 

Recommended tours 

What to see at Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

Northern façade

The northern façade is the first to greet your eye as you arrive at the château. This façade blends French tradition with Gothic art to create a true masterpiece of architecture. Look out for the sculpted decorations that continue inside the castle also!

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

Southern façade

If you want to see the château reflected in a water mirror, head over to the southern façade. Find out why it was called a “faceted diamond” here. You will also get a view of the corner tower, large bay windows, machicolations, tall dormers, and more.

Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

Grand staircase

Synonymous with French Renaissance architecture, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau features a grand helical staircase that is adorned with intricately carved stone balustrades and decorative elements, reflecting the high artistic standards of the Renaissance period.

King’s bedroom

King’s bedroom

The King’s bedroom (though uninhabited) is literally ‘fit for a King,’ and features a grand canopy bed, rich tapestries, elaborate wall coverings, and ornate furniture. The decor also includes elements like gilded wood, intricate carvings, and luxurious fabrics such as velvet and silk.

Salon Biencourt

Salon Biencourt

Named after the Biencourt family, who owned the château in the 19th century, the Salon Biencourt showcases portraits, ornate furniture and features a stunning fireplace.

Private chapel

Private chapel

The small, beautifully adorned chapel within the château offers insight into the religious practices of the château's inhabitants.

Restored kitchens

Restored kitchens

The kitchens have been restored to their historical state, complete with period utensils and furnishings, and beautifully illustrate the day-to-day operations of the château.

Plan your visit to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau

Timings
Getting here
Facilities
Tips and guidelines
Dining
Stay
Nearby
Azay-le-Rideau Tickets

Opening hours: 

  • April 1 to June 30: 9:30am - 6pm 
  • July 1 to August 31: 9:30am - 7pm
  • September 1 to September 30: 9:30am - 6pm
  • October 1 to March 31: 10am - 5:15pm

Last entry: One hour before closing

Closed: January 1, May 1, December 25

Best time to visit: Plan your visit to the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau during the spring or autumn. In spring, you can marvel at blooming flowers, whereas in autumn, the fall foliage adds to the charm and romance of the castle. During this time, crowds are also less and the weather is pleasant.

Address: 19 Rue Balzac, 37190 Azay-le-Rideau, France

Find on maps.

Azay-le-Rideau Tickets
  • Wheelchair accessible: The castle has limited accessibility. The interiors are not wheelchair-accessible since the only way to explore them is by ascending and descending staircases.
  • Washrooms: There are male and female washrooms at the castle. Female washrooms are also equipped with changing tables for babies. 
  • Audio guides: Multilingual audio guides are available at the castle in French, English, German, Italian and Spanish.
Azay-le-Rideau Tickets
  • Assistance dogs are allowed throughout the premises of the castle. However, dogs have to be on a leash in the castle gardens and in a carrier bag inside the castle. 
  • Strollers are allowed in the castle park but not inside. 
  • You can take pictures inside the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, but flash photography is not permitted. You can also stroll through the gardens and enjoy a picnic on the castle grounds. 
  • The opening hours of the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau vary from season to season. It is a good idea to check the opening times of the attraction and then plan your visit accordingly. 
  • If you are arriving at the castle by bicycle, you should know that the bicycle park is open only during the opening hours of the castle.

Happy women in a cafe
  • Les Grottes Touraine: Located 180m away, Les Grottes offers a charming dining experience with traditional French cuisine. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and attentive service. Their stand-out dish includes their leg of lamb, which is cooked for seven hours!  
  • Le Grand Monarque: Located 290m away, Le Grand Monarque provides an elegant dining experience focusing on gourmet dishes and fine wines. It is also located in a beautifully restored historical building. The Chartres Pâté is a must-try specialty of the Michelin-starred restaurant. 
  • La Crédence: Located 180m away, La Credence offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a menu that features classic French brasserie fare such as steak frites and roasted chicken. The outdoor terrace of the restaurant is perfect for a relaxed meal as well.
  • Restaurant CÔTÉ Cour: Located 170m away, CÔTÉ Cour serves contemporary French cuisine with a creative twist. The dishes such as the lamb cooked two ways are beautifully presented, and the service is top-notch.
man entering hotel room

Budget: Hôtel de Biencourt (220m), Hôtel Restaurant Les Trois Lys (290m), Hôtel Val de Loire (420m). 

Mid-range: Hôtel Le Grand Monarque (310m), Domaine Plessis Gallu (770m), Hôtel des Châteaux (1.1 km).  

Luxury: Moulin de la Chevrière (6.4 km), Château de Rochecotte (12.4 km), Château d'Artigny (17.1km).

Aerial View of Chateau de Villandry gardens
  • Château de l'Islette: Located 2.8 km away, Château de l'Islette is a charming Renaissance château known for its picturesque setting on the banks of the Indre River and its beautiful gardens. The château was also a favorite retreat of the famous sculptors Camille Claudel and Auguste Rodin.
  • Château de Villandry: Located 11 km away, Château de Villandry is renowned for its spectacular Renaissance gardens. The gardens are divided into several sections, including ornamental, vegetable, and water gardens, each meticulously designed and maintained.
  • Château de Langeais: Located 10.5 km away, Château de Langeais is one of the oldest châteaux in the Loire Valley, and features a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Inside, visitors can explore furnished rooms and learn about the history of the castle.

Frequently asked questions about Château d'Azay-le-Rideau tickets

Is entry to the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau free on special days?

Entry to the castle is free on the third weekend of September during the European Heritage month. There is also free entry on the first Sundays of January, February, March, November, and December.

What are the best days and times to visit the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau to avoid crowds?

To avoid crowds, plan your visit to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau in spring or the autumn. During this time, crowds are less and the weather is pleasant.

How long does a typical visit to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau last?

A typical visit to the attraction will take around one hour. During this time, you can explore the interiors of the castle and stroll through its expansive English-style gardens.

If I get a timed entry ticket, how much earlier do I have to arrive?

There are no timed entry tickets for the attraction. However, you enjoy extended validity on the tickets purchased. For more information on the validity of your tickets, please refer to the ticket voucher.

Does the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau offer audio guides as an alternative to a guided tour?

Though private guided tours are not available at the castle, visitors can use the audio guides to take a self-guided tour. The audio guides are available in French, English, Spanish, German and Italian.

What special accommodations are available for guests with disabilities?

Guests with disabilities enjoy free entry to the castle all year round. Assistance dogs are also welcome at the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau. However, only the ground floor of the castle is accessible to people with reduced mobility.