Culture and heritage Food and wine

Immerse yourself in the Middle Ages in Sedan

The most imposing castle in Europe stands at the gates to Ardennes. A visit to Sedan and its region is all about history, art and regional food, which you’ll discover as you travel along the River Meuse.



Chateau Fort de Sedan

An unusual getaway in the largest medieval castle in Europe

Built in 1424, Sedan Castle and its curious triangular shape never cease to amaze us. Over the centuries, nine princes and princesses have ruled this castle, infusing it with the splendour we know it for today and growing it to a vast size: 35,000 m², twice the size of the Stade de France stadium! This iconic figure of Ardennes is the must-see attraction in Sedan.

But although the main draw of the castle is its history, architecture and legends, there is still life within its walls. Knights' tournaments, medieval festivals, treasure hunts, escape games and more make the heart of the ‘Giant of Sedan’ beat to the cheers of young and old alike. At night, a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere takes hold, to be experienced during a torchlight tour.

The Middle Ages are in full swing

After diving into the heart of its towers and ramparts, we recommend taking a seat at the Café Turenne to sample authentic Ardennes tartine (charcuterie and cheese open sandwiches). And why not fill up on local produce in the regional deli? What’s more, a new cellar and master affineur is going to open in the heart of Sedan Castle with specialities that will make your taste buds quiver with pleasure...

Ever wondered what it’s like to be royalty? The hotel within the castle offers an enchanting and unusual break in a medieval atmosphere that invites you to get away from it all. You’ll have sweet dreams in this legendary fortress!

At Sedan Castle and in Charleville-Mézières

Charleville-Mézières

A region of Villes d'Art et d'Histoire (towns of art and history)

Upstream along the River Meuse, overlooked by its castle, beautiful Sedan has distinctive yellow bricks and majestic buildings. Stroll between the Palais des Princes castle and characterful townhouses before ending up at the Art Nouveau-inspired botanical gardens.

No trip to Sedan is complete without a visit to Charleville-Mézières, 20 km away, the beating heart of Ardennes. On one side, you have the Italian Charleville, the birthplace of Rimbaud, with its famous ducal square and ochre, red and blue houses. On the other, you have the medieval Mézières, witness to major events in French history, whose streets are filled with curiosities

Activities in the Meuse Valley

Sail along the Meuse

Offering a choice itinerary for visiting Ardennes from Sedan, the River Meuse lazily undulates through mysterious and grandiose landscapes, providing perfect places to stop and enjoy one of the region’s delicious beers to quench your thirst.

Got your sea legs? Slide through the water aboard a barge. Or are bikes more your thing? The Trans-Ardennes greenway is a reinvigorating route through the countryside that follows the meanders of the river to the Belgian border. Follow it at your own pace across Belgium on the Meuse à vélo cycle route! 

Accommodation nearby

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