Citadel of Doullens - Image 1
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Citadel of Doullens

4.5
·385 reviews·Doullens, France

A historic fortress offering a journey through centuries of military and social history, with beautiful grounds for walks and picnics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

12 PM - 2 PM

Quieter for walks

CrowdLow
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Citadel of Doullens - Image 1

Citadel of Doullens

Best Time

12 PM - 2 PM

Quieter for walks

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic fortress offering a journey through centuries of military and social history, with beautiful grounds for walks and picnics.

4.5
(385 reviews)

"A wonderful site full of history, military and social. Highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Guided Tour Value

The 90-minute guided tour is highly recommended and offers incredible historical insights for just 6 euros.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

This is a fantastic spot for dog walking, especially during local lunch hours when it's less crowded.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Citadel's Rich History

The Citadel's Rich History

Explore centuries of military and social history within these ancient walls. A must-see for history enthusiasts.

Scenic Walks & Picnics

Scenic Walks & Picnics

Enjoy beautiful walks and picturesque picnic spots within the Citadel grounds. Perfect for a relaxing family outing.

Passionate Guided Tours

Passionate Guided Tours

Experience the Citadel through engaging 90-minute guided tours led by knowledgeable locals. Learn about its varied past.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for History Buffs

To truly soak in the Citadel's rich history, consider visiting during off-peak hours. Local lunch breaks can offer a quieter experience for exploring the grounds and imagining centuries past. Reddit

Language & Preservation Notes

While the Citadel offers a deep dive into history, be aware that audio tours and information signs may not be in English. Translating signs is manageable, but an English audio guide would enhance the experience for international visitors. Reddit

Best Times

When
12 PM - 2 PM
Why
Quieter for walks
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Haiti 🇭🇹, you are so precious & you are truly a choosen land ♥️. I remember standing at the top of Citadel & over seeing the entire island 🏝️. Haiti 🇭🇹, you have captured my sould, I am crazy about you. I LOVE YOU ♥️.
@jahanamayard22
31.4K likes • 427K views

🎯 Guided Tour Value

The 90-minute guided tour is highly recommended and offers incredible historical insights for just 6 euros. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

This is a fantastic spot for dog walking, especially during local lunch hours when it's less crowded. Reddit

Esto también es HAITÍ! ¿Lo sabías? La Citadelle 🇭🇹 #Haití #citadelle #haitian #haitiantiktok
@siempreviajerord
22.3K likes • 436.4K views
J'illuminerai la citadelle à la tombée de la nuit tous les vendredis et samedi du mois de juillet I will light up the citadel at nightfall every Friday and Saturday in July. Я буду освещать цитадель с наступлением темноты каждую пятницу и субботу июля.
@monthoux
21.2K likes • 178.6K views

🗣️ Language Considerations

Audio tours and signs may not be in English, but translations are manageable. Reddit

🌳 Picnic & Relax

The Citadel is a beautiful place for a picnic and a leisurely walk. Reddit

Haiti 🇭🇹, you are so BEAUTIFUL! Standing at the top of Citadel & viewing the entire Caribbean. I cried like a baby. Haiti 🇭🇹, you are so special. To get to Citadel, I took a car, a motorcycle & a horse. Imagining my ancestors walked up and down by foot. 🇭🇹♥️
@jahanamayard22
20.1K likes • 194.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Guided Tour Value

The 90-minute guided tour is highly recommended and offers incredible historical insights for just 6 euros. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

This is a fantastic spot for dog walking, especially during local lunch hours when it's less crowded. Reddit

🗣️ Language Considerations

Audio tours and signs may not be in English, but translations are manageable. Reddit

🌳 Picnic & Relax

The Citadel is a beautiful place for a picnic and a leisurely walk. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(385 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Citadel of Doullens for its rich history and beautiful grounds, making it ideal for walks and picnics. The passionate guided tours are a highlight, offering deep insights into the site's military and social past. However, the lack of English audio tours and information signs is a drawback for international visitors.

"Visited as a family last week. It was very interesting, we found out loads of history. Also a beautiful place for a walk/ picnic. It’s a shame they don’t currently offer the audio tour in English, also non of the information signs were in English but we managed to translate them okay."

Sami Lavin

"Found this by luck when passing on holiday. Excellent guided tour from a young lady who is obviously passionate about preserving local history. Wonderful site full of history, military and social. I only hope the local authorities spend money to preserve many parts of it's varied past which are in imminent danger of collapse. Tour costs 6 euros but lasts 90 minutes. Recommended."

H Bshp

"Love this place, fab dog walking, well managed. Best time is 12 to 2 when the French are having lunch ( to walk the dog)"

Jane Bratley

What People Like

Rich history
Beautiful grounds
Passionate guides

What People Dislike

No English audio tour

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Citadel of Doullens is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes in advance is advisable. Reddit

Yes, the Citadel is a prominent landmark in Doullens and is generally easy to locate within the town. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times. Reddit

Entry to the grounds for walks and picnics is often free, but guided tours typically have a small fee, around 6 euros. Reddit

For general access, booking is usually not required. However, for guided tours, it's a good idea to inquire about booking, especially during peak season. Reddit

While the grounds are generally accessible, some areas might be closed for preservation work. Always follow posted signs and guidelines. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historical fortifications, enjoy scenic walks, have a picnic, and take a guided tour to learn about its military and social history. Reddit+1

Yes, families can enjoy the open spaces for walks and picnics, and the historical aspect can be educational. Reddit

The Citadel is a popular spot for dog walking, making it a pet-friendly destination. Reddit

Audio tours are available, but they may not be offered in English, which could be a consideration for international visitors. Reddit

Guided tours typically last around 90 minutes, offering an in-depth exploration of the site's history. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ramparts offer panoramic views, and the historical architecture provides many picturesque opportunities. Look for unique angles of the fortifications. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed within the public areas of the Citadel. However, always check for any specific restrictions in certain sections. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Citadel of Doullens offers a blend of open space and historical intrigue that can appeal to families. The grounds are perfect for running around and having picnics, providing a safe and engaging environment for children to explore. Reddit

While the historical narratives might be more suited for older children, the sheer scale of the Citadel and the opportunity for a good walk can still be captivating. Consider timing your visit during local lunch hours to enjoy a quieter experience and allow kids more freedom to roam. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Dog Owners

For solo travelers, the Citadel of Doullens provides a peaceful retreat and a chance to immerse yourself in history at your own pace. The guided tours are highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the site's past. Reddit

Dog owners will find this to be an excellent destination. The Citadel is very dog-friendly, offering ample space for your pet to enjoy a walk, especially during the less crowded midday hours. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Citadel of Doullens is a site steeped in history, offering a fascinating look into both military strategy and the social fabric of past eras. Visitors can explore its varied past, from its defensive structures to the daily lives of those who inhabited it. The passionate guides bring this history to life, making it an engaging experience for all ages. Reddit

It's important to note that while the historical significance is immense, some parts of the Citadel are in imminent danger of collapse, highlighting the need for ongoing preservation efforts. This adds a poignant layer to the visit, reminding visitors of the fragility of history. Reddit

For those interested in a deeper understanding, the guided tours are invaluable. They provide context and stories that go beyond what can be gleaned from simply walking the grounds. Reddit

Exploring the Grounds

Beyond its historical significance, the Citadel of Doullens serves as a beautiful and expansive space for recreation. The grounds are ideal for leisurely walks and offer picturesque spots for picnics, making it a perfect destination for a relaxed day out. Reddit

It's also a well-managed and dog-friendly location, making it a great choice for pet owners looking for a scenic place to exercise their companions. Reddit

Many visitors discover the Citadel by chance while passing through the area, often finding it to be a delightful surprise and a welcome break. Reddit

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