Welcome to Châteauroux, a charming city in the Indre department. If you're looking for ideas for exploring this city rich in history and culture, you've come to the right place! Among the places not to be missed are the Château Raoul, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings, the Parc Balsan, a veritable haven of peace, and the Musée Bertrand, which houses an impressive collection of objects and works of art tracing the history of Châteauroux and the surrounding area. So what's there to do and see in Châteauroux? Petit Futé gives you the 15 must-sees!
1. Visit the Musée Bertrand
The Musée de Châteauroux features Gallic and Gallo-Roman archaeological collections, including an exceptional collection of Gallo-Roman funerary stelae discovered in 1908. The 19th-century collections include works by Auguste Borget, a friend of Balzac who brought back picturesque sketches of India, South America and China from his travels. The Musée Bertrand also exhibits two works by Camille Claudel: a bronze bust and one of her first large plaster casts, Sakuntala. Paintings by regional artists, notably from the Crozant School, are represented with works by Madeline, Guillaumin, Fernand Maillaud and Raoul Adam. The museum also features memorabilia from the Napoleonic era, such as the St. Helena aviary and the Aboukir sword.
2. Visit the Cordeliers convent
The Cordeliers convent is one of the oldest and best-preserved in France. It features the typical layout of Franciscan buildings, characterized by great simplicity. The church consists of a single vessel with no transept, a flat chevet, no ambulatory and no side aisles, preceded by a 17th-century porch and a beautiful 13th-century portal. The 13th-century stained glass window of the Rose du Jugement dernier is a must-see. Let yourself be charmed by its gardens and magnificent flower-filled terraces. As you stroll along, you may discover one of the two restored wash-houses. It's the ideal place for a family stroll or a romantic getaway!
Today, the Cordeliers convent has become an exhibition space and hosts the "L'Envolée des Livres" book fair every April.
3. Les Pleureuses, Châteauroux's most photographed sculpture
This major work of funerary art by Ernest Nivet is Châteauroux's most famous and most photographed sculpture. This monumental group is particularly remarkable for the faces and attitudes of the two women depicted: the mother and wife of a soldier who died in the First World War. The two peasant women feeding a lamb can also be admired on the pediment of the former building of the Association des Éleveurs, located at 8 rue de la Poste, as well as the monument "Le Retour du soldat mutilé", erected on Place Lafayette in memory of the 1914-1918 war. These works were also created by Ernest Nivet, a Berrichon sculptor renowned for his pacifist monuments.
4. Saint-Martial church, the oldest in Châteauroux
This is the town's oldestchurch, dating back to the 12th century. It was once an annex of the Saint-Denis priory. Situated on the cobblestones of Rue Grande, this small church features a nave of Romanesque origin. The bell tower-porch, added in the 15th century, is richly decorated with colonnettes and grotesque sculptures in the flamboyant Gothic style. The interior features statues of Saint John, the Virgin Mary and Saint Denis.
5. Château Raoul
In the 12th century, this site was one of the most important strongholds in Aquitaine, with a keep and two wings of buildings arranged at right angles. In 1778, Claude Dupin, grandfather of George Sand, settled at Château Raoul. Under the Consulate, Château Raoul became the Hôtel de la Préfecture, and served as the residence of the prefects until 1826. Today, Château Raoul belongs to the Conseil Général, but its proximity to the Hôtel de la Préfecture limits visits. Itis open only occasionally for exhibitions and during the Heritage Days in September. To admire it, it's best toapproach itfrom the rue de l'Indre, where it dominates the river in an impressive manner.
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6. Visit Saint-André church
Consecrated in 1876, this neo-Gothic church was built to plans by architect Henri Dauvergne. Its two 60-metre-high spires make it visible from afar. The triple portal is richly sculpted and bears the unusual inscription "République française" (French Republic). The interior furnishings are remarkable, including a black marble baptismal font, a magnificent high altar, a wrought-iron chandelier and two 18th-century paintings: "The Marriage of the Virgin" and "The Flight into Egypt". The paintings were donated by General Bertrand.
7. The Maison des Arts et Traditions Populaires, a must-see!
This museum is located in the beautifully restored former stables of the Parc Balsan factory. It houses collections of objects, paintings and traditional costumes that retrace the rural life of the Berrichons from 1850 to 1930. Paintings by local artists such as Fernand Maillaud, Adam, Paul Rue and Charodeau, as well as sculptures by Nivet, illustrate various aspects of peasant life. The museum offers a window on the life, habits and customs of our ancestors, and is an essential step towards understanding life in 19th-century Berry. Visits can be self-guided or guided, and last about an hour.
8. Stroll along the Coulée verte castelroussine
Châteauroux's Coulée verte is a vast expanse of greenery in the heart of the town. Bordering the River Indre, it links the Petit Valencay racecourse to the south with the Écoparc des Chenevières to the north. The Coulée crosses the Saint-Gildas meadow, where you can visit the Château de Raoul, which gave its name and identity to the town, andthe Parc Balsan, home to the château of the same name. Continuing north, you'll pass through the Jardin Public and Jardin des Cordeliers before reaching Parc Daniel Bernardet and Lac de Belle-Isle. This immersion in nature will quickly make you forget your proximity to the city. This route is also used by the GR 46, which crosses the département over 125 km.
9. Fresh air in Belle-Isle park
Parc de Belle-Isle, created in 1981 in the heart of Châteauroux, extends over 21 hectares and offers a pleasant place to stroll, particularly around the lake in the late afternoon. Since its creation, the trees have grown and nature has reclaimed its rights, giving the site a natural, peaceful charm. Designed for relaxation, the park also offers a range of water-based activities such as swimming (supervised in summer), windsurfing and angling. The people of Châteauroux love to meet here, on the lawns or at the buvette de la guinguette on summer evenings. It's a charming and friendly place, even family-friendly, which attracts many regulars: a relaxed atmosphere!
10. Notre-Dame de Châteauroux church
This neo-Romanesque church was built to plans by Dauvergne, inspired by the church at Issoire in the Puy-de-Dôme region, and completed in 1882. A 6-metre-high gilded Virgin Mary crowns the dome, and its steeple rises to a height of 50 metres. The interior features a series of capitals by Girault-Dupin and veined granite columns in the choir. A 16th-century Pietà has been reinstalled in a chapel.
11. Strolling through Châteauroux's historic center
Built in the 10th century, Châteauroux has accumulated many historical treasures over the centuries. Among them, the heart of the city invites you to discover its cobbled streets, where you can stroll to your heart's content. A tour of around 1h30 is available from the Tourist Office, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and charm of this heritage-rich town, one of Berry's most beautiful places.
12. Walking or cycling in the Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne
This park is the cradle of myths and legends. You'll discover the bocages of the "thousand lakes" region, populated by carp, frogs, tree frogs and toads. The moors are home to over 270 species of birds and large mammals. In addition to wildlife observation trails, you can enjoy canoeing, kayaking and horseback riding. The ecomuseum will introduce you to the various aspects of the park.
13. Getting to the Cité Royale de Loches, 1 hour's drive away
Do you like authentic historic towns? You'll love Loches, just 1 hour's drive from Châteauroux! This medieval jewel of the Loire Valley, surrounded by ramparts, exudes history around every corner. Dominated by its impregnable citadel, Loches seduces visitors with its well-preserved architecture and charming cobbled streets. Listen carefully as they whisper their secrets of yesteryear! Ready to step back in time? From the dungeon to the collegiate church of Saint-Ours, and all the wonders of the past, discoverthe 13 must-do activities in Loches.
14. Visit Valençay castle, one of Indre's most beautiful monuments
Just a 40-minute drive away, the Château de Valençay is one of Indre's most beautiful monuments, and was Talleyrand's former home. The park is just as magnificent , offering a pleasant stroll through formal and formal gardens, with ponds, paths, fountains, flowerbeds, sculptures and even a few animals. Period music accompanies visitors, immersing them in the enchanting, festive atmosphere of Talleyrand's receptions. Since 2014, it has been possible to visit the impressive kitchens. The whole family will be delighted by the Grand labyrinthe de Napoléon (2,000 m²), the largest game maze in France, where an exciting adventure awaits them. To find their way out, they have to answer riddles and collect clues to open doors and cross 3 enchanting worlds.
15. Go to Argenton-sur-Creuse, the Venice of Berry
Just a 25-minute drive away, Argenton-sur-Creuse is a friendly little town whose heyday was in the 19th century thanks to the shirt-making industry. Its picturesque town center, old wheel mills and old houses with galleries and balustrades give it an undeniable charm. Two museums are well worth a visit: the Musée de la Chemiserie, which preserves the town's living memory and gives visitors an insight into the work of the shirtmakers, and the Musée archéologique d'Argentomagus, located two kilometers west of the center of Argenton, in Saint-Marcel. You can also see the ruins of an ancient feudal castle, destroyed by order of Richelieu.
What to do and see in Argenton-sur-Creuse? Discover the 11 must-sees.
Where to stay in Châteauroux?
Châteauroux offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for a comfortable hotel, a charming B&B or a rental apartment, you're sure to find the perfect place for your stay. Here are our recommendations:
- Best value for money: ibis Châteauroux
Centrally located and reasonably priced, the ibis Châteauroux is close to the train station and a stone's throw from the Equinoxe concert hall. The restaurant - open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday lunchtime - has two dining rooms for brasserie or gourmet cuisine. Click here to book your stay.
The Élysée Hôtel is a pretty hotel with a 1900s façade in the heart of the city center, offering comfortable, spacious rooms bookable right here. The hotel's elegance and warmth are seductive. The bar with piano provides a pleasant break, while the sauna and whirlpool offer a moment of relaxation. And don't forget the delicious platters for in-room dining, concocted by a talented restaurateur!
- The quietest: Hotel Le Boischaut
Hotel Le Boischaut is a quiet, well-kept hotel in a small building on Avenue de La Châtre you can book here. It avoids the narrow streets of the city center , yet is a stone's throw from the hypercentre. Prices are moderate and the rooms modern and comfortable, but without fuss. Meal trays are available on request (hot cooked dishes with cheese and dessert). Family rooms are available, and pets are allowed.
What to do in Châteauroux in the evening?
Châteauroux offers a variety of activities to occupy your evenings, whether you're looking for cultural entertainment, gastronomic outings or moments of relaxation. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your evenings in the city:
Cultural outings
- Theater and shows: The Théâtre de Châteauroux offers a rich and varied program, ranging from plays to concerts and dance performances. See the program for upcoming events.
- Cinema: Several cinemas, such as the Cinéma Apollo, offer a selection of recent films and classics. A movie night is always a good way to unwind.
Restaurants and bars
- Gourmet restaurants: For a gourmet evening, head to one of the city's gourmet restaurants. Establishments such as "Le Saint-Hubert" or "Le Bistrot de la Gare" offer refined menus and a warm atmosphere.
- Bars and pubs: For a more relaxed evening, Châteauroux's bars and pubs are the place to be. Places like "Le Pub Saint-Patrick" or "Le Bar à Vins" offer a wide selection of drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Outdoor activities
- Evening strolls: Take advantage of summer evenings to stroll through the city's parks and gardens. Parc de Belle-Isle, with its illuminated walkways and green spaces, is particularly pleasant in the evening.
- Riverside strolls: A walk along the Indre can be very soothing. The banks are often well-lit and offer beautiful views over the city.
Events and festivals
- Festivals and concerts: Fans of dance and good music? Châteauroux regularly hosts festivals and concerts. The DARC Festival, for example, is a not-to-be-missed event offering dance workshops and fiery concerts. It's the event not to be missed this summer in Châteauroux! It offers an explosive mix of dance workshops with professionals from all over the world, and concerts that set the evenings alight. This not-to-be-missed event attracts over 65,000 people every year. Intrigued? Then enter the world of the DARC 2024 Festival!
What to do in Châteauroux when it rains?
Even when it's raining, Châteauroux has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are a few suggestions to keep your day busy despite the capricious weather:
Cultural visits
- Museums: Take the opportunity to visit the city's museums. The Musée Bertrand, for example, houses a rich collection of art and history. The Musée de l'Hospice Saint-Roch also offers interesting exhibitions.
- Art galleries: Discover local art galleries exhibiting works by regional and international artists. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Indoor activities
- Cinema: Visit one of the city's cinemas, such as the Cinéma Apollo, to see a recent film or a classic. A movie is always a good option for entertainment.
- Theater: The Théâtre de Châteauroux offers a varied program of plays, concerts and dance performances. Check the program for upcoming events.
Leisure activities
- Bowling and billiards: For a fun activity, head to a bowling alley or billiards room. These activities are perfect for a good time with friends or family.
- Escape games: If you like a challenge, try one of the city's escape games. These escape games are a great way to spend an entertaining and stimulating day.
What to do in Châteauroux with children?
Châteauroux offers a wide range of child-friendly activities, making for an enjoyable and enriching family day out. Here are just a few suggestions to keep young and old occupied:
- Parc de Belle-Isle: This park is ideal for a day in the great outdoors. It offers playgrounds, walks around the lake, and water activities such as swimming (supervised in summer) and windsurfing.
- Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne: Designed for relaxation, the park offers a range of water-based activities, including swimming (supervised in summer), windsurfing and angling. It's a charming, family-friendly place that attracts many regulars
- Musée Bertrand: This museum offers interesting exhibits and workshops for children. It's a great way to introduce them to art and history.
