Château d'Amboise

Learn about the history of Leonardo da Vinci and his masterpieces (including the Mona Lisa) during his time in France at the Château du Clos Lucé. Invited by King Francis 1st of France, Leonardo da Vinci left Italy and took up residence at the Château du Clos Luce in the autumn of 1516. Appointed "first painter, engineer and architect to the King", Da Vinci served the monarch with his talents, working tirelessly on numerous projects and imagining plans for the "ideal château". With this admission ticket, you will receive access to both the castle and park. The visit will begin in the bedroom of Leonardo da Vinci, the site where Leonardo died in 1519 at the age of 67. From the window, you can see the Saint Hubert Chapel at the Royal Castle of Amboise, which is the burial place of Da Vinci. Whilst in the Leonardo da Vinci Park, you will learn about the artistic creations and major inventions of the artist. You will enter the imaginary world of Da Vinci, seeing the world as he did in these unique grounds. In the Galleries Leonardo da Vinci, painter and architect, An immersive tour will introduce visitors to the full body of Leonardo da Vinci’s painted works. The virtual gallery will screen an animated display of 17 Leonardo da Vinci masterpieces combined with his drawings. In the upper gallery, an educational and fun tour presents the works of Leonardo da Vinci as a civil, religious and militay architech, urban planner and director of epemeral shows.

Discover some of the finest castles of the Loire Valley on a guided day trip from Paris. Transfer by air-conditioned minibus to the castles of Chenonceau, Chambord, and Amboise. Walk in the flower gardens of the Château de Chenonceau, and gaze at the delicate arches that cross the Cher River. Learn the extraordinary history of the building, which was run by women for much of its time in existence. Continue to Chambord to investigate the largest castle in the Loire Valley. Marvel at the extravagant architecture and double spiraled staircase of the royal Château de Chambord. See the hundreds of columns and spires that adorn its roof. End the day at the former home of King Francois I, and see the tomb of Leonardo Da Vinci at Amboise village and the Château d’Amboise. Confiscated by the monarchy in the 15th century, it was a favorite royal residence and was extensively rebuilt.

Meet your guide at the tourist office in Tours and drive in a minivan to Vouvray. Discover this beautiful wine area full of passionate winegrowers. Meet a French winemaker in a local winery . See the vines and visit the traditional vat room and the cellars. During this visit, you will improve your knowledge regarding wine-making and of course wine tasting. Elegant sparkling wines and white wines are produced in this area. During this visit, explore the famous underground cave that were dug during the 10th century in order to extract stones and today used by a famous Loire Valley wine house for producing and storing wines. Throughout the afternoon, your guide will share his knowledge with you, to help you understand the diversity of Loire wines and their specific terroir. You will learn the different steps of wine tasting and train your nose to identify many wine aromas. Benefit from your guide's tips and tricks and learn to taste like a professional. Afterward, you will be driven back to Tours, where your tour will end. 

Get picked up in the morning before driving to the Loire Valley and start your day touring the Château de Chenonceau. The Chateau des Dames bridge built across the Cher is famous for the great heroines who lived there (Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medicis) and for the beauty of its Renaissance gardens. Next, head to the Royal City of Amboise for a lunch in the city center. Discover this charming town, built along the River Loire, considered as the Old Capital of the Loire Vally and where Da Vinci spent his last three years. Continue to Chambord for a guided tour of the chateau built by François 1st. Admire the fine details of the largest chateau in the Loire Valley, including a double helix staircase by Da Vinci. End your day by being dropped off in Tours at 6 PM or in Amboise at 6:30 PM.

07:30 Meeting at Opera Garnier Steps or Pick-up from Your hotel if option booked. There are 180 km to drive on highway by our comfortable air conditioned Mercedes minivan to reach the first Castle Chambord. It takes about 2,5 hours with one stop made at the rest area. The Guide will give You general Information about the French history connected to the Castles of Loire Valley. 10:00 - 11:30 Arrival at the Loire Valley at Château de Chambord 10:00 - 11:30 Visit of Chateaux Chambord. The Guide will tell You the history of the Castle and its construction. The Château de Chambord is one of the most popular castles because of its French Renaissance architecture. The building was constructed (1519–1547) by Francis I (Francois 1-er) and is nowadays the biggest castle with its 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces and 84 staircases. The castle is also known because of its open double-spiral staircase. The two spirals ascend the three floors without ever meeting. Leonardo da Vinci may have designed the staircase. 11:30 Departure to the Wine Tasting. There is 1 hour drive (60 km) 12:30 - 14:30 Wine Tasting and Lunch time 12:30 - 13:15 Wine Tasting of minimum 5 wines at a local family vinery existing since many centuries. You will learn how wines have been making for centuries and have afterwords the wine tasting of local wines with explanations. 13:15 - 14:30 Time for Lunch in Amboise city where You'll find many restaurants and cafes. We can as well recommend You or make a table reservation at a good restaurant. 14:30 to 15:40 Visit of Château Royal d'Amboise 14:30 to 15:40 Skip-the-line access with Guide to Royal Chateau d’Amboise with Histopad explaining to You the history of this Castle and of each room. Amboise is the grand 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII and an example of the transition of Gothic to Renaissance architecture. Learn the history of the castle Amboise which is known as birth place of princes, the reign of Kings, and the death of the greatest Renaissance master, Leonardo Da Vinci! You can see his grave in the chapel. Departure to the Chenonceau castle which is located just 20 minutes drive. 16:00 - 17:30 Visit of Château de Chenonceau and its Gardens 16:00 to 17:30 Skip-the-line access to the Chateau Chenonceau and its Gardens. The Guide will tell You the history of the Castle and its construction. You will get as well the brochure with explanations of each room. Chenonceau nicknamed the "ladies’ castle" is remarkable for its feminine history of famous women of France such as Catherine de Medici as well as for its stunning architecture as well as unique aches over the River Cher. Attn. In low season we depart at 5:10 pm and in high season at 5:30 due to the opening hours of the Castle. Departure to Paris. It takes about 3 to 3,5 hours (245 km). 20:30 to 21:00 Coming back to Paris and Drop off at Your hotel P.S. More Day trips from Paris to Loire Valley Castles in Small groups and as Private Experiences at GetYouGuide.

07:30 Pick-up from Your hotel. There are 180 km to drive on highway by our comfortable air conditioned Mercedes minivan to the Loire Valley Castles (Chateaux de la Loire). It takes about 2,5 hours. The Guide will give You general Information about the French history connected to the Castles of Loire Valley. 10:00 - 11:45 Visit of Chateau de Chambord. The Guide will tell You the history of the Castle and its construction. The Château de Chambord is one of the most popular castles because of its French Renaissance architecture. The building was constructed from 1519 to 1547 by Francis I (Francois 1-er) and is nowadays the biggest castle with its 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces and 84 staircases. The castle is also known because of its open double-spiral staircase. The two spirals ascend the three floors without ever meeting. Leonardo da Vinci may have designed the staircase. 12:45 to 13:30 Wine Tasting of minimum 7 wines at a local family vinery existing since many centuries. You will learn how wines have been making for centuries and have afterwords the wine tasting of local wines with explanations. 13:30 Departure to Amboise city 13:45 - 16:15 Arrival in Amboise. Lunch time. Chateau d’Amboise visit. 13:45 Free time for Lunch in Amboise city where You'll find many restaurants and cafes. We can help You as well with the table reservation. 15:00 to 16:15 Skip-the-line access with Guide to Chateau d’Amboise with Histopad explaining to You the history of this Castle and of each room. Amboise is the grand 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII and an example of the transition of Gothic to Renaissance architecture. Learn the history of the castle Amboise which is known as birth place of princes, the reign of Kings, and the death of the greatest Renaissance master, Leonardo Da Vinci! You can see the chapel with his grave. 16:15 Departure to Chateau de Chenonceau. It takes about 15 minutes. 16:30 - 18:00 Château de Chenonceau guided visit. The guide will explain You the history and the construction of Chenonceau Castle. Chenonceau nicknamed the "ladies’ castle" is remarkable for its feminine history of famous women of France such as Catherine de Medici as well as for it’s stunning architecture as well as unique aches over the River Cher. The Renaissance-style Gardens of Chenonceau with their more than 130,000 flowerings plants will impress You as well. 17:30 Departure to Paris. It takes about 3 hours (245 km) 21:00 Coming back to Paris. Drop off at Your hotel. P.S. More Day trips from Paris to Loire Valley Castles in Small groups and as Private Experiences at GetYouGuide.

Wander through the Loire Valley's gorgeous castles and gardens. Journey along the King's Road to visit the Chambord, Amboise, and Chenonceau Chateaux with our friendly driver-guide. Discover the famous castles and gardens of the Renaissance with an all-day tour of the beautiful Loire Valley. Let our friendly driver-guide pick you up from your Paris hotel (for private tours only). Visit the cradle of the Renaissance, Chateau Amboise, one of the first truly royal residences of its kind. Follow in the footsteps of the great kings of France as you view a magnificent example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Next, stop at Chateau de Chenonceau. Admire the wealth of beauty both inside and out, which makes Chenonceau the most popular chateau in France. Learn about its tumultuous history as the castle passed from Lady to Lady. Then, you will have free time to enjoy lunch. The last stop will be at the royal Chateau de Chambord, one of the most recognizable chateaux in the world. Legend has it that Leonardo da Vinci, living at the Clos Luce in Amboise, made several plans and models for its construction.  While visiting Chambord, take pleasure in one of Europe's finest parks, covering over 13,000 acres, and is Europe's largest wooded park. After a full day wandering the castles and gardens of the Renaissance era, return to Paris aboard our deluxe minibus.

Amboise, situated on the southern bank of the Loire River, holds a significant place in history. It was the childhood home of Charles VIII and serves as the final resting place of the legendary artist Leonardo da Vinci. In 1516, Leonardo da Vinci accepted an invitation from King Francis I of France and moved to Amboise, where he spent the final years of his life, and finished his masterpiece, the “Mona Lisa”. The city's architecture, characterized by its white stone, showcases the charm of the Châteaux de la Loire and represents the birthplace of the French Renaissance. Amboise, once a royal city, exudes an air of enchantment and surprises visitors at every turn. Immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Amboise. Visit the magnificent gardens of Château d'Amboise, a remarkable blend of medieval fortifications and Renaissance elements that dominate the left bank of the Loire. Explore the Tour de l'Horloge, a 15th-century tower built atop a former gate, and soak in the architectural splendour of the past. As you wander through the narrow streets of Amboise's historic city centre, you'll uncover more facets of its fascinating past. Beyond the historic areas, discover the modern facets of Amboise, seamlessly blending tradition and contemporary life. Amboise beckons travellers to delve into its captivating history, explore its architectural wonders, and experience the harmonious coexistence of the past and present.

Day 1: 07:30 Pick-up from Your hotel. There are 180 km to drive on highway. It takes about 2,5 hours. Day 1: 10:00 - 11:45 Arrival at the Loire Valley at Château de Chambord. The Guide will tell You the history of the Castle and its construction. The Château de Chambord is one of the most popular castles because of its French Renaissance architecture. 12:45 to 13:30 Wine Tasting at a local family vinery existing since many centuries. You will learn a lot about wine making and have afterwords the wine tasting with explanations. 13:30 Departure to Amboise city 13:45 - 15:00 Free time for Lunch in Amboise city where You'll find many restaurants and cafes. We can help You as well with the table reservation. 15:00 to 16:30 Skip-the-line access with Guide to Chateau d’Amboise with Histopad explaining to You the history of this Castle and of each room. Amboise is the grand 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII. Day 1: 16:30 - 18:00 Visit at Leonardo da Vinci Chateau Clos Luce with Parc. In this castle Leonardo da Vince spent last three years of his life. The Château du Clos Lucé is a castle located just 400 meters away from Château Royal d'Amboise. Clos Luce is of top 100 extraordinary destinations to explore 2021 by time magazine. Free time in Amboise city. 18:30 Hotel accommodation. Day 2: 08:30 Departure from Your hotel to Chenonceau castle. It takes max. half an hour drive. Day 2: 09:00 - 11:00 Arrival at the Chenonceau castle. Visit of Chateau de Chenonceau. Time to enjoy the Castle and walking around the Castle taking pictures. Chenonceau is nicknamed the "ladies’ castle", remarkable for its feminine history as well as for its stunning architecture as well as unique aches over the River Cher. 11:00 Departure from the Chenonceau castle destination Chaumont Castle. It takes about 45 min (40 km) Day 2: 11:30 - 13:00 Arrival at Chateau de Chaumont Sur Loire. The castle was founded in the 10th century and rebuilt in the 15th century by Charles I d'Amboise. Catherine de Medici forced in 1559 Diane de Poitiers, to accept the Château de Chaumont in exchange for the Château de Chenonceau. Diane de Poitiers spent here last 3 years of her life. 13:00 Departure to Blois city. Day 2: 13:30 - 17:00 Arrival in Blois city. Lunch time. Chateau de Blois visit 13:30 - 14:45 Arrival in Blois city. Free time for Lunch. We can make for You the reservation at a good restaurant. 15:00 - 17:00 Blois castle visit. The Royal Château of Blois is located in the center of Blois city. It was a residence of some French Kings, Joan of Arc also went there by 1429 to be blessed by the Archbishop of Reims before battling against the English. 17:00 Departure to Paris. It takes about 2,5 hours drive. 20:30 to 21:00 Coming back to Paris. Drop off at Your hotel. P.S. 10 more multi-day trips from Paris to Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel and D-Day Landing Beaches by Clewel Travel in Small groups and as Private Experiences at GetYouGuide.

Overlooking the Loire, the Château d'Amboise in the heart of Touraine was home to kings Louis XI, Charles VIII (who died there), Louis XII, and François 1er. Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, it became part of the French crown in 1431. The chapel of St. Hubert houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, who lived at Le Clos Lucé, 2 steps from the château. At the invitation of François 1er, Leonardo da Vinci spent the last 3 years of his life at the Château du Clos Lucé, a Renaissance marvel. Le Clos Lucé allows visitors to experience the genius of da Vinci through furnishings, decorations, inventions, and models. The park has been transformed into a play area, inviting visitors to handle da Vinci's inventions.