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Loire Valley Castle & palace tours

Our most recommended Loire Valley Castle & palace tours

Chenonceau Castle Admission ticket

1. Chenonceau Castle Admission ticket

Enjoy access to Chenonceau site and its wonderful gardens. This unusual castle was built on a bridge across the Cher River. To learn more about castle history, audio guides are available in 16 languages. The castle is located near the small village of Chenonceaux in the Indre-et-Loire department. Chenonceau castle, also known as the Chateau des Dames, is famous for the great heroines who lived there, such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medicis, and for the beauty of its Renaissance gardens. Chenonceau castle was also used as a military hospital during the First World War. Discover the rich history of this incredible fortress.

Loire Valley: Château Royal d'Amboise Entrance Ticket

2. Loire Valley: Château Royal d'Amboise Entrance Ticket

Ditch the hassle of long lines and start exploring the Château Royal d’Amboise. A place of residence for French royalty from the 15th to 19th centuries, the castle has hosted a long list of famous renaissance figures — most notably, Leonardo da Vinci, whose tomb stands in one of the Château’s chapels.  Experience a classic expression of French luxury as you wander the balconies, terraced gardens, and broad roofs, all providing a panoramic view of the famous Loire River. Explore the grounds and buildings further with the Histopad, a tablet-based experience that grants visitors a look back in time to the château in its heyday. The HistoPad technology offers a spectacular way to enrich your discovery of the royal château of Amboise. It includes 3D recreations of the Loggia, the interior decoration, and recreations of scenes from life at court. 2020 exhibitions • “Travel like the kings.” In 2020, the magic of travel and roaming will be celebrated at the royal château of Amboise. In particular, with the exhibition: “On the route of the traveling princes”, on display throughout the entire season.

From Paris: Full-Day Loire Valley Chateaux Tour

3. From Paris: Full-Day Loire Valley Chateaux Tour

Escape the hustle and bustle of Parisian life and enter into the Garden of France. Stroll the walkways of the French monarchs, hear tales of royal love affairs and kidnappings, and behold the beauty of the Loire Valley's exquisite Chateaux.  The first stop of the day is Château de Chambord; the perfect example of French Renaissance architecture, this remarkable structure was built by King François I between 1519-1547 and is the largest château in the Loire Valley. Who designed this masterpiece is still in dispute, and with contenders including Leonardo da Vinci, its sights are sure not to disappoint. Next up is the charming Château de Chenonceau, a true fairy tale castle set picturesquely on the Cher River, its history and character has been shaped by the women who've inhabited it. The site of the first-ever French fireworks display, Chenonceau is really one to fall in love with. The last stop will be at Château de Cheverny, a 17th-century beauty furnished in great taste and with marvelous gardens. Enjoy free time for lunch (not included) during the day either at Chenonceau or Chambord. You’ll be back in Paris in the evening.

Paris: Loire Castles Day Trip by Coach With Wine Tasting

4. Paris: Loire Castles Day Trip by Coach With Wine Tasting

Discover iconic castles on this bus day trip from Paris to the Loire Valley and explore Château de Chambord on a self-guided tour. Have free time in the charming town of Bloise and visit Château de Chenonceau for a self guided tour and wine tasting experience. From Paris, head to Château de Chambord. Disney fans will find this castle’s turrets familiar; it was the inspiration for the castle in "Beauty and the Beast." Though originally conceived as a royal hunting lodge, it was built to a scale that must be seen to be believed. Learn all about the castle’s captivating history from your guide before entering the castle. You can then visit the inside at your own pace on a self-guided visit. Climb a staircase supposedly designed by Da Vinci, enjoy spectacular turret-framed rooftop views, and glimpse wild deer around the grounds. Having worked up an appetite, get back on the bus and continue on to the next stop: the quaint town of Blois. Take some free time to enjoy lunch (at your own expense) in one of the restaurants located around the beautiful and vibrant Square Louis XII. Last but not least is the elegant Château de Chenonceau. The chapel, bedrooms, and magnificent vaulted kitchens are still furnished and decorated from times gone by, showing off the castle’s many sweeping stone carvings. Don’t miss the impressive main hall, which spans the river Cher, or the gardens cultivated by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici — 2 of the famous owners that earned Chenonceau the nickname "the Ladies’ Château." After a your visit, continue exploring or indulge in a wine tasting in the castle’s vaulted wine cellar. Your tour leader will entertain you between stops with insights and stories about the countryside and the nobility who once reigned over the region. Three uniquely beautiful French castles and a wine tasting, all amid the stunning scenery of the Loire Valley — this memorable day trip from Paris will delight all the senses.

Chaumont-sur-Loire: Domaine of Chaumont Skip-the-Line Ticket

5. Chaumont-sur-Loire: Domaine of Chaumont Skip-the-Line Ticket

Discover the wonders of the Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire with a skip-the-line entry ticket. Visit the Château of Chaumont to explore the castle from the 10th century A.D. and see where the royalty of Europe and historical figures spent their time. Expect art installations and 26 unique gardens. Located less than 2 hours from Paris and open all year round, the Domaine-de-Chaumont dominates the Loire Valley and offers views of the wild river and untouched nature. The estate brings together 3 entities on the same 32-hectare property: the castle, gardens, and Arts and Nature Center. The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is one of the most furnished castles in Loire. Explore one of the most beautiful castles in the valley and get to know its heritage. In the 16th century, the estate became the property of Queen Catherine de Medici, then of her rival, Diane de Poitiers. The Arts and Nature center features a combination of around 15 artists, visual artists, and photographers of international renown each year (figures like Sheila Hicks, Andy Goldsworthy, El Anatsui, and Guiseppe Penone). During your visit, take a stroll outside and admire the international garden festival (subject to availability). This festival has welcomed landscapers and designers from all over the world for 30 years. Your ticket also includes access to any of the estate’s ongoing cultural programs and events.

Paris: Loire Valley Chambord Castle, Wine Tasting & Lunch

6. Paris: Loire Valley Chambord Castle, Wine Tasting & Lunch

Admire magnificent Renaissance Castles and taste delicious Loire Valley wines on this full-day tour. Fall in love with the Chambord's impressive architecture and with the diversity of Loire Valley wines on this tour in an airconditioned van from Paris.  Be picked up early in the morning in Paris and travel in a comfortable van. On the way, enjoy flaky croissants while your guide tells you about the winemaking region of Loire and its heritage. Stop at the Château of Chambord and explore twith an audio-guided tour. Uncover the secrets of this splendid castle that was constructed by King Francis I of France in the early 16th century. Drive through the lush, rolling vineyards of Touraine, Vouvray, and Montlouis-Sur-Loire. Take in the colorful landscapes where Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Franc grapes ripen in the sun.  Savor a traditional gourmet lunch at a winery or a gourmet restaurant. Delight your senses with a Loire wine tasting hosted by your tour guide. After lunch, discover a family-run winery and taste a range or red and white wines.  Experience authentic Loire Valley wines that are largely unavailable in the rest of the world. Be dropped off in a well connected area of central Paris in the evening.

From Paris: Small-Group Loire Valley Castles Full-Day Tour

7. From Paris: Small-Group Loire Valley Castles Full-Day Tour

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.

From Paris: Loire Valley Castles Full-Day Tour with Lunch

8. From Paris: Loire Valley Castles Full-Day Tour with Lunch

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. Dine at "Au Gateau Breton," a charming 200-year-old inn, for lunch. 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 a three-course lunch. After a full day wandering the castles and gardens of the Renaissance era, return to Paris aboard our deluxe minibus. 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.

Exclusive Wine Day Trip Loire Valley from Paris

9. Exclusive Wine Day Trip Loire Valley from Paris

From Paris, set off directly for the Royal Castle of Amboise - open every day (except on 1 January and 25 December). When you arrive, take a walk in the town of the Amboise and see the beautiful castle from the outside and stroll around this historic city. This symbolic monument and its landscaped gardens offer wonderful panoramas of the Loire Valley, which rightly deserves the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the castle of Amboise with an audio guide (if the castle is closed, visits to similar castles such as Chambord or Cheverny are available). Get acquainted with French history from different angles in an exceptional location of political and artistic importance within Europe during the Renaissance. Discover what would have been the intimate moments in a sovereign's life, learn about daily life in the court, and get the chance to peek behind the scenes.  Finally, discover local gastronomy at a local restaurant. Savor a 3-course lunch which includes a starter, main, and dessert. This final stop will also give you an opportunity to learn about some emblematic French wines. Visit 2 different wineries in unique locations and explore the caves and taste up to 5 different glasses of wine. Meet the people who produce delicious bottles as you follow them to the caves and hear their stories.

Paris: Top Loire Castles with Lunch and Wine

10. Paris: Top Loire Castles with Lunch and Wine

After being picked up from your hotel in Paris, set off for the Loire Valley.The first castle the tour visits is Chateau de Chennonceau, it is one of the oldest and most beautiful castles in the France that is today only surpassed by the might of the famous Versailles in Paris. Next, visit the wine domain located next to the chateau. Stop for lunch which includes several French dishes.  After lunch, head over to the second equally famous Chambord Castle, which will impress you in all its majesty and glory. Finally, visit the romantic and refined 'Castle of Ladies' and learn about how it acquired its name due to the fact that it was mostly women who lived here. After seeing this charming castle head to the last place of the excursion - the small town of Amboise - to stroll through the charming streets. At the end of your tour, take the return transfer back to Paris where you memorable day will end.

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What people are saying about Loire Valley

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 184 reviews

It was a very nice experience, as a professional photographer I like to take time and look around the area, this trip gave us ample time to look around and all was on time. Loved it .

Great day trip! It was indeed a long day (13hrs) but well worth it. The tour guides were very informative and the attractions were worth the visit.

Such an amazing experience. The tour guides were super sweet and knowledgeable. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and the châteaus were stunning.

Beautiful castles, definitely worth visiting! We enjoyed the trip

Wonder your, wine tasting fun. Great host, meet other people too