There are multiple guides floating for the top ten châteaux to visit in the Loire Valley. But the simple truth is, not many of us are lucky enough to be able to spend a week or more in France, let alone just the Loire Valley. So for those of us strapped for time, I compiled a shorter list of the top four castles that are absolute must-visits when you travel to the Loire Valley.

1.    Chambord

A giant, gorgeous château on the eastern part of the Loire Valley, Chambord represents the very pinnacle of French Renaissance architecture. This brainchild of King François I is the largest castle in the Loire Valley.

One of the draws is a dual-helix staircase designed by (or depending who you ask, just inspired by) DaVinci where people would see each other but never meet. The rooftop is also a must-see. The collection of towers feels like its own little city and the view of the park is breathtaking. Disney fans should know that it was the inspiration for the Beast’s castle in Beauty and the Beast.

Tip: Allow plenty of time to see this castle! Many of the rooms are fully restored and there are thousands of intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings. However, if short on time, head up to the roof first and work your way down. You’ll be mad if you miss the roof; you might not be too upset if you miss a collection of royal china.

2.    Chenonceau

There’s a reason that the beautiful Chenonceau is the second most visited chateau in France (after Versailles, bien sur). The way that it juts out over the water to create a perfect reflection is awe-inspiring, and its gardens are some of the best in the country.

The restored rooms of the castles feature décor from different time periods and personal taste. At separate times during the 1500s, King Henri II’s mistress and wife controlled the castle, so both style preferences are present throughout the grounds. The castle has a rich history even after the Renaissance. In World War I, the gallery (the large part extending over the water) was used as a hospital, and in World War II, oppressed French citizens would flee the occupied zone by running through the gallery to the free zone on the opposite end.

Tip: Arrive early to explore the castle before the huge wave of tourists hits. This way you can explore the grounds, gardens, wax museum, farm, and other extras at your leisure while everyone else fights their way through the castle.

3.    Angers

Maybe I’m biased because I studied in Angers for a semester, but their château is consistently passed over in the “top ten” posts. And it shouldn’t be. This castle dates back to the early 13^th century, but also contains a chapel from the 15^th century.

Besides the pretty gardens, well-kept dry moat (which at one point held a zoo!), and spectacular views of the city, the castle houses the Apocalypse Tapestry. The tapestry took almost 10 years to complete, and even though 70 of the original 100 panels still exist, it’s still the longest tapestry in the world. As you probably guessed, these elaborate tapestries depict the book of Revelation along with weaving in the politic struggles of the 14^th century.

Tip: Once you explore the château, take the extra time to stroll down Rue du Vollier and up Rue Saint-Christophe to see the St. Maurice Cathedral. Construction on this cathedral kept starting and stopping, so the end product has distinct features from Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture.

4.    Blois

My personal favorite château in the Loire Valley is in Blois. This stunning building showcases four distinct styles of architecture and is just saturated with French history. Since the castle has been in renovation since the late 1800s, most of the rooms are richly decorated and open to the public.

Art fans will enjoy the permanent and visiting exhibits in the Louis XII and Gaston wings. The staircase attached to the François I wing is a gorgeous centerpiece to the château and truly, a work of art itself. This château has seen many events, including military installations, a visit from St. Joan of Arc, and multiple political assassinations. The Gaston wing has been heralded as one of the best examples of Classic architecture in France.

Tip: For English-speakers visiting between April and September, try to plan your visit to the château on a Wednesday. Wednesday is only day of the week when the castle’s stunning Sound and Light show plays in English. You sit in the courtyard and watch as the castle’s history is projected in dazzling color onto its inner facades.

While there’s no such thing as a bad château to visit in the Loire Valley, I truly believe that these four are the crème de la crème. Among the four castles, you’ll get a sweeping overview of French history and a crash course in architecture. The French government has done a beautiful job preserving each place and you’ll actually feel like you’re rubbing elbows with French royalty.

About the author: Mandy Kilinskis is a content developer at Quality Logo Products and often contributes to their promotional products blog. She is a true Francophile at heart and can never learn enough.