Loire Valley: France's Royal River Realm
Discover fairytale castles, world-class wines, and stunning landscapes in France's Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a picturesque region in central France, celebrated for its fairytale châteaux, sprawling vineyards, and historic towns. Known as the 'Garden of France,' it offers a blend of royal history, architectural grandeur, and serene natural beauty.
A brief summary to Loire Valley
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Local tips
- Consider visiting in the shoulder season (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the valley's numerous châteaux and vineyards.
- Take advantage of local markets to sample regional specialties and fresh produce.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Explore the Loire à Vélo cycling route for a scenic and active way to discover the region.
Getting There
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Driving
From Tours, a central hub in the Loire Valley, access to the châteaux is primarily via well-maintained local roads. To reach Château de Chambord, take the D956 north. For Chenonceau, follow the D81 east. Azay-le-Rideau is accessible via the D751 southwest. Parking is available at or near most châteaux, with fees typically ranging from €3 to €7 per day. Tolls are not generally required on these local routes.
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Public Transport
From the Tours train station, regional trains (TER) connect to several towns in the Loire Valley. To reach Amboise, take a TER train, with tickets costing approximately €8-€12 each way. From Amboise station, it's a short walk to the Château d'Amboise. For Blois, a train ride costs about the same, and a bus (Rémi line 2) connects the Blois-Chambord station to Château de Chambord for €3.20. Consider purchasing a Loire Pass for discounts on multiple château visits.
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Cycling
The Loire à Vélo is a well-marked cycling route that runs along the Loire River, connecting many of the region's attractions. Bike rentals are available in major towns like Tours and Amboise, with prices around €15-€20 per day. From Tours, follow the marked paths to reach châteaux like Villandry (approximately 15 km) or Chenonceau (approximately 35 km). Be prepared for some sections on shared roads.
Discover more about Loire Valley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wine Trotters, private wine tours Loire Valley
2.5 km
Experience the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Loire Valley with personalized tours from Wine Trotters. A journey through France's wine heritage.
J'aime le Val de Loire
13.7 km
Explore the stunning beauty and rich culture of the Loire Valley at J'aime le Val de Loire, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Statue Leonardo da Vinci
15.4 km
Honor the Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci with a visit to his statue in Amboise, a scenic tribute along the Loire River.
Pl. Michel Debré
15.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and historical charm of Place Michel Debré in Amboise, France, a perfect destination for culture-loving travelers.
gite de la riviere
15.9 km
Experience Amboise from the heart of the city at Gîte de la Rivière, offering comfort and convenience on the scenic Quai des Marais.
France with Vero
23.7 km
Explore the essence of France with Vero, offering bespoke sightseeing tours that immerse you in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
WESTOTEL TOURS VAL DE LOIRE
24.4 km
Modern 4-star hotel in the Loire Valley, offering comfortable accommodations and convenient access to châteaux and cultural attractions.
Denis Papin Monument
24.5 km
Discover the Denis Papin Monument in Blois: a tribute to a visionary inventor with panoramic views from an art-adorned monumental staircase.
Loire High Water Marks
24.7 km
Discover the historic Loire High Water Marks in Blois, a breathtaking landmark that showcases the power of nature and rich cultural heritage of France.
Le Loir-et-Cher en Val de Loire
24.7 km
Explore the heart of the Loire Valley. Your gateway to châteaux, culture, and unforgettable experiences in Loir-et-Cher.
Loire Valley Medieval Getaway
25.0 km
Experience medieval charm and modern comfort in the heart of the Loire Valley, surrounded by vineyards and historic sites near Rochecorbon.
The Lantern Rochecorbon (watchtower from the 15th century)
25.0 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of The Lantern Rochecorbon, a 15th-century watchtower overlooking the stunning landscapes of the Loire Valley.
Château de Chenonceau
25.8 km
Explore the enchanting Château de Chenonceau, a historic castle with breathtaking gardens, rich history, and architectural beauty in the heart of the Loire Valley.
Tours Val de Loire Airport
26.1 km
Discover the charm and beauty of the Loire Valley with seamless travel through Tours Val de Loire Airport, your gateway to French culture and history.
Observatoire Loire
26.7 km
Explore the ecological and cultural wonders of the Loire River at this engaging museum and tour center.
Unmissable attractions to see
Etang des Héronnières
3.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Etang des Héronnières in Autrèche, a hidden gem for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Mosaique
8.4 km
Explore the cultural charm of Mosaique in Château-Renault, where history, art, and local life come together in a picturesque setting.
Roseraie du Château
8.7 km
Discover the stunning Roseraie du Château in Château-Renault, a floral paradise perfect for relaxation and photography amidst vibrant rose gardens.
Musée du cuir et de la tannerie
8.7 km
Explore the art of leather-making at the Musée du Cuir et de la Tannerie in Château-Renault, a unique museum celebrating historical craftsmanship.
Plaque Directionnelle
10.6 km
Discover the historical charm of Plaque Directionnelle in Neuville-sur-Brenne, where local culture meets picturesque landscapes.
Passage à gué de Villefrain
11.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of Passage à gué de Villefrain in Neuville-sur-Brenne, a captivating destination for nature and history lovers.
Guillaume and Mathieu PLOU
13.3 km
Discover the beauty and flavors of Guillaume and Mathieu PLOU, a premier vineyard in Chargé, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking landscapes.
Château de Valmer
14.0 km
Explore the stunning gardens and rich history at Château de Valmer, a captivating castle and vineyard in the heart of France's Loire Valley.
Décollage montgolfière au gré des vents
14.5 km
Discover stunning aerial views of the Loire Valley with a hot air balloon ride at Au Gré des Vents, a unique tourist attraction for all ages.
Chateau Chaumont viewpoint
15.0 km
Experience stunning vistas of the Loire Valley and the historic Chateau Chaumont at this breathtaking viewpoint, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Association Millière Raboton homme de Loire.
15.1 km
Experience the charm of the Loire Valley with scenic boat tours at the Association Millièere Raboton in Chaumont-sur-Loire.
Le Port de Chaumont-sur-Loire
15.1 km
Experience the enchanting beauty and serene atmosphere of Le Port de Chaumont-sur-Loire, a picturesque tourist attraction along the Loire River.
Caves Ambacia
15.2 km
Explore the heart of Loire Valley winemaking at Caves Ambacia, where tradition meets taste in a charming cellar atmosphere.
Caves Ambacia | 1463
15.2 km
Explore the heart of the Loire Valley at Caves Ambacia, a premier wine cellar offering tastings, local delicacies, and a charming atmosphere.
Château de Chaumont
15.3 km
Discover the enchanting Château de Chaumont, a stunning castle in the Loire Valley, celebrated for its breathtaking gardens and rich Renaissance history.
Essential places to dine
LES HAUTS DE LOIRE
11.1 km
Discover luxury at Les Hauts de Loire – a serene retreat with gourmet dining and spa indulgence in the beautiful Loire Valley.
Restaurant Le Château de Pray
14.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking views at Restaurant Le Château de Pray in Amboise.
Hôtel des bords de Loire
15.3 km
Discover comfort and exquisite regional flavors at Hôtel des Bords de Loire, your gateway to exploring the majestic Loire Valley.
Restaurant le 36
15.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant le 36 in Amboise, where culinary artistry meets stunning riverside views.
La Madeleine de Proust
15.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Madeleine de Proust in Chaumont-sur-Loire - where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Hôtel Restaurant Le Clos d'Amboise -
16.0 km
Experience luxury and authentic French cuisine at Hôtel Restaurant Le Clos d'Amboise, your perfect getaway in picturesque Amboise.
Auberge du Prieuré
16.2 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Prieuré in Amboise, where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.
Auberge de la Caillère
20.6 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and charming accommodations at Auberge de la Caillère in Candé-sur-Beuvron.
Le Médicis Restaurant
23.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Médicis Restaurant in Blois – where culinary artistry meets exceptional service.
Les Hautes Roches
23.8 km
Experience luxury and gourmet dining at Les Hautes Roches, where scenic views meet haute French cuisine along the enchanting Loire River.
Logis Côté Loire - Auberge Ligérienne
24.3 km
Discover refined comfort and exquisite French cuisine at Logis Côté Loire - Auberge Ligérienne in Blois, France.
Fleur de Loire · Spa Hotel & Restaurant
24.8 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Fleur de Loire Spa Hotel & Restaurant – where exquisite dining meets ultimate relaxation along the scenic Loire River.
Auberge du Bon Laboureur
24.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Auberge du Bon Laboureur in Chenonceaux - where haute cuisine meets exquisite hospitality.
L'Orangerie
25.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at L'Orangerie inside Château de Chenonceau - where every meal is a celebration of French cuisine amidst breathtaking views.
L'Hédoniste
29.6 km
Discover L'Hédoniste: A blend of traditional French cuisine and vibrant bar culture in Tours, offering an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Tour d'Or Blanc de J.M. Othoniel
15.2 km
Explore La Tour d'Or Blanc de J.M. Othoniel, a captivating cultural landmark in Amboise, France, blending contemporary art with historical charm.
Tour de l'Horloge
15.8 km
Discover stunning views and rich history at the Tour de l'Horloge in Amboise, a must-see observation deck overlooking the Loire River.
Un Coin de France Sarl
15.8 km
Explore culinary treasures at Un Coin de France Sarl, a kitchen supply store in the heart of Amboise, offering quality tools for every chef.
Touraine Voyages
16.0 km
Explore the enchanting Loire Valley with Touraine Voyages, your expert travel agency in Amboise for personalized tours and unforgettable experiences.
Paris Store Tours
27.5 km
Discover a vibrant Asian grocery store in Tours, France, offering a wide selection of authentic products and a taste of Asian culinary delights.
Autrement
29.6 km
Uncover unique vintage fashion treasures at Autrement in Tours, a must-visit for style enthusiasts and nostalgic shoppers alike.
IKONE- LIFE STYLE STORE
29.8 km
Explore IKONE, the premier women's lifestyle store in Tours, offering fashion, cosmetics, and jewelry to elevate your style.
Nomad
29.8 km
Explore the stylish offerings of Nomad, a premier women's clothing store in Tours, where local fashion meets contemporary trends.
Maison nomad
29.8 km
Explore the unique treasures of Maison Nomad in Tours, where local craftsmanship meets charming shopping experiences.
Ma Boutique 35 Rue Colbert TOURS
29.9 km
Discover the elegance of French fashion at Ma Boutique in Tours, where style meets sophistication in a charming setting.
MOKO concept store
29.9 km
Explore the unique charm of MOKO Concept Store in Tours, offering a curated selection of gifts, fashion, and home goods that embody local creativity and style.
BOÊTHIK concept store Tours
29.9 km
Discover unique fashion and lifestyle pieces at BOÊTHIK, a concept store that embodies the spirit of modern French culture in Tours.
FLEURENPLUME Concept Store
29.9 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures at FLEURENPLUME Concept Store in Tours, blending local craftsmanship with stylish finds.
Le petit Souk Tours
30.0 km
Explore Le Petit Souk in Tours for a unique shopping experience filled with charming gifts, children's toys, and delightful home goods.
Nature and Discoveries
30.1 km
Explore the charm of Nature and Discoveries in Tours, a gift shop offering eco-friendly treasures inspired by the beauty of nature.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Captain's
9.5 km
Discover Le Captain's: the ideal bar in Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes for refreshing drinks, local flavors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Eden Bar
12.4 km
Experience the charm of Reugny at Eden Bar, where authentic French cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere in a delightful setting.
Sauvage
12.8 km
Discover the charm of Sauvage, a delightful wine bar in Chargé, offering exquisite wines and delicious deli fare in a cozy atmosphere.
Le Bergerac
13.6 km
Explore the charm of Veuzain-sur-Loire at Le Bergerac, where delightful cuisine and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
ART IS AN ALE BREWING
15.2 km
Discover the artistry of craft beer at Art Is An Ale Brewing in Nazelles-Négron, where passion meets flavor in every pint.
Le Royal
15.2 km
Discover the charm of Amboise at Le Royal, an affordable Bar PMU where local culture and vibrant atmosphere await you.
Le Shaker
15.5 km
Experience the best of tapas and local wines at Le Shaker in Amboise, where culinary delights meet a charming riverside atmosphere.
Le lamantin qui guinche
15.6 km
Enjoy live music and delicious snacks at Le Lamantin Qui Guinche, the vibrant bar in Chaumont-sur-Loire for an unforgettable night out.
Bistrot L'Atelier
15.7 km
Experience the essence of French culture at Bistrot L'Atelier, a charming wine bar in Amboise offering exquisite local wines and delightful cuisine.
ART IS AN ALE BREWING Taproom
15.8 km
Discover the vibrant craft beer culture at Art Is An Ale Brewing Taproom in Amboise, where every sip tells a story of artistry and passion.
UNE GABARE à HUSSEAU - Bières locales à Husseau à Montlouis sur Loire (37)
20.2 km
Experience the best of local craft brewing at Une Gabare à Husseau, a charming brewpub in the heart of Montlouis-sur-Loire.
Bar L’entre potes
21.5 km
Experience the charm of Montlouis-sur-Loire at Bar L’entre potes, where a diverse selection of beers meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bar Brasserie Le Sully
23.5 km
Discover the inviting ambiance and local flavors at Bar Brasserie Le Sully, the perfect retreat in the heart of Blois.
Troquet
24.3 km
Explore Troquet in Blois - a vibrant bar and restaurant offering mouthwatering tapas, exquisite wines, and refreshing cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.
Le Bar - Fleur de Loire
24.7 km
Experience elegance and relaxation at Le Bar - Fleur de Loire, a chic lounge along the scenic Loire River in Blois.
