Walking around the Chateau de Vincennes

Visit a medieval castle and then enjoy a romp in the park.

There’s no longer water in the moat, but the drawbridge, sturdy towers, and machicolations for pouring boiling oil at the Chateau de Vincennes (1, 1 avenue de Paris) will stir the imaginations of would-be knights in armor. Set on the edge of Bois de Vincennes, this surprisingly complete mediaval castle was begun in the 12^th century and expanded by various monarchs. Enter through the Tour du Village to reach the large central space and 164-foot-high keep, the tallest in Europe, with vaulted ceiling and 10-foot-thick walls. You can also go into the Gothic Saint-Chapelle, built to house boly relics. On leaving, stop for lunch or snack at Le Pur Beurre (2, #10) opposite the castle – a tearoom renowned for its buttery brioche. The walk around to the castle’s southern side to reach the entrance to Parc Floral de Paris (3, esplanade Saint-Louis). A cross between a modern botanical garden and amusement park, it’s great for kids. Explore on foot or by pedal car for four. There are hills to roll down, a climbing wall, a playground, Ping-Pong tables, a Valley of flowers, a butterfly house (summer), pine woods, and picnic spots. The Théatre Astral puts on theater and puppet shows for kids year-round; the pestacles preogram each Wednesday (June-September), aimed at 5-12s, offers free workshops, storytellers, and clowns, followed by a concert. On summer weekends, the Delta stage becomes the setting for first – rate free classical music and jazz concerts. You can also play miniature golf Paris-style and putt your way around the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Invalides.

Metro Station : Château de Vincennes (Line 1)