Discover the Enchantment of Château de Villandry
Explore the stunning Renaissance architecture and lush gardens of Château de Villandry, a historical gem in the heart of the Loire Valley.
A brief summary to Château de Villandry
- 3 Rue Principale, Villandry, 37510, FR
- +33247500209
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Château de Villandry stands as a testament to Renaissance architecture and gardening artistry in the heart of the Loire Valley. This stunning castle, built in the 16th century, is not only a historical marvel but also a visual delight, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The castle itself is beautifully preserved, showcasing exquisite details and offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former inhabitants. The true jewel of Château de Villandry is its meticulously designed gardens, which are among the most beautiful in France. Visitors can wander through the vast array of themed gardens, including the ornamental garden, the vegetable garden, and the water garden, each filled with vibrant flowers and plants that have been carefully arranged to create a feast for the senses. As you stroll through these enchanting grounds, you can appreciate the harmony between nature and design, as well as the dedication that has gone into maintaining this landscape for centuries. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Château de Villandry also offers a rich historical narrative. The castle has been home to several distinguished families over the years and has played a significant role in French history. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the castle's past and the stories of those who once walked its halls. Notably, the gardens are at their most vibrant from spring to autumn, making this an ideal time for a visit. Whether you're a history buff, a gardening enthusiast, or simply seeking a picturesque spot for a leisurely day out, Château de Villandry promises an unforgettable experience filled with beauty and history.
Local tips
- Visit during spring or early summer for the best display of flowers in the gardens.
- Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history of the castle and its gardens.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens.
- Don't forget your camera; the gardens provide countless photo opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Getting There
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Train
From Tours, head to the Tours train station (Gare de Tours). You can take tram line A or a local bus to reach the station if you're not already nearby. Once at the Gare de Tours, purchase a ticket for a train to Villandry. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Trains run frequently, so check the schedule upon arrival. Upon arrival at Villandry train station, exit the station and turn left onto Rue de la Gare. Walk straight for about 700 meters until you reach the village of Villandry. The Château de Villandry will be on your right at 3 Rue Principale.
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Bus
From Tours, make your way to the Tours city center and locate the bus station (Gare Routière). Look for the bus line that heads towards Villandry. The bus ride will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time for departure times. Once you arrive at the bus stop in Villandry, walk along Rue Principale for about 300 meters to reach Château de Villandry, located at 3 Rue Principale.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle in Tours. Start from the city center and follow the Loire River bike path towards Villandry. The ride is approximately 15 kilometers and will take about 45 minutes to an hour. As you approach Villandry, follow the signs leading you to the château. You will arrive at Château de Villandry located at 3 Rue Principale.
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Walking
For the adventurous, you can walk from Tours to Château de Villandry. It's a distance of about 15 kilometers and will take approximately 3 to 4 hours. Start from the city center and make your way towards the Loire River. Follow the riverbank paths until you reach Villandry. Once in the village, navigate to 3 Rue Principale to find Château de Villandry. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water along for the journey.
Attractions Nearby to Château de Villandry
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Jardins de Villandry
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Confluence de la Loire et du Cher
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Château de Langeais
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Cave of Goupillières
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Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
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Château de l'Islette
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Parc de la Gloriette
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Jardin botanique de Tours
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Place de Strasbourg
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Prébendes d'Oé Garden
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Les Halles de Tours
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Le Monstre - Xavier Veilhan
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Tour de l'Horloge
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Place Plumereau
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Collégiale Saint Martin et Tour Charlemagne
Landmarks nearby to Château de Villandry
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Mission Val de Loire
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Escape Yourself
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Info Tours
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Nids de Loire
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Portail de l'Hôtel des Trésoriers de Saint-Martin
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Le Petit faucheux
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Maison
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Val de Loire Travel
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Mister Bed Chambray-les-Tours
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Tour Places
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Station Citiz - Vieux Tours/rue Marceau
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Hôtel Goüin
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Guinguette de Tours
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Comédie de Tours
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Hilton Garden Inn Tours Centre