Food & wine

Loire Valley Castles Day Trip from Paris

4.9(23 reviews)Paris, FranceRef. viator-19014P10
11hDurationEnglishOffered inMobile ticketTicketPickup includedPickupEasyLevel

About this experience

Join a small group of up to 8 guests for a day trip from Paris to the Loire Valley, where you will visit two significant châteaux. The trip includes exploration of the Château Royal d’Amboise, which is the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, and the Château de Chenonceau, known for its location spanning the River Cher. Audio guides are provided for both locations, allowing for self-paced exploration after an initial introduction from an English-speaking guide. A traditional three-course French lunch is included in the itinerary. The day concludes with a guided wine tasting featuring 8 selected wines from the Loire Valley at a local winery. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are part of the package, with comfortable transportation provided throughout the trip. This experience is suitable for those interested in history, architecture, cuisine, and wine.

Itinerary

1

Paris

Your day begins with a convenient pickup directly from your hotel or Airbnb in Paris in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Once everyone is on board, we depart for the beautiful Loire Valley. On the way, depending on timing and traffic conditions, we may make a short comfort stop at a service area where you can use the restrooms, enjoy a coffee, or grab a snack if you wish. As you leave Paris behind, you will travel through the scenic French countryside towards the Loire Valley, known as the “Garden of France,” where your journey through castles, history, and royal heritage truly begins.

2

Chateau Royal d'Amboise

Your next destination is the magnificent Château Royal d'Amboise, one of the most celebrated castles in the Loire Valley and a remarkable symbol of the French Renaissance. Perched high above the Loire River, the Château d'Amboise combines medieval fortifications with elegant Renaissance architecture. Once a favorite residence of the French kings, it became an important political and cultural center, welcoming artists, scholars, and ambassadors from across Europe. Originally built as a medieval fortress, the château was transformed into a royal residence by King Charles VIII and further enhanced by King Francis I. It is especially renowned for its close association with Leonardo da Vinci, who spent the final years of his life nearby at Clos Lucé and was laid to rest in the château's Chapel of Saint Hubert You will have free time to explore this remarkable château, admire its panoramic views over the Loire Valley, and discover the charming historic town of Amboise at your own pace

3

Chateau de Chenonceau

Your next stop is the magnificent Château de Chenonceau, one of the most iconic and elegant castles in the Loire Valley. Known as the “Ladies’ Château,” it is famous for its unique Renaissance architecture gracefully spanning the River Cher. Rich in history and elegance, Chenonceau has been shaped and preserved by influential women of French nobility, giving it a distinctive charm and atmosphere unlike any other château in France. During your visit, you will explore the castle at your own pace with an audio guide, allowing you to discover its beautifully furnished rooms, historic galleries, and stunning riverside views while learning about its fascinating past.

4

Plou Et Fils

Your journey continues to Plou & Fils, a charming family-owned winery in the heart of the Loire Valley, known for its authentic winemaking traditions and warm hospitality. Here, you will be welcomed for a guided visit and tasting experience, where you will discover the winery’s cellars and learn about their production methods passed down through generations. You will then enjoy a guided wine tasting session, sampling a selection of local wines and experiencing the true character of Loire Valley winemaking in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

5

Paris

At the end of your Loire Valley experience, you will relax on the journey back to Paris in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Your driver/guide will drop you off directly at your hotel or Airbnb, or at another location in Paris agreed in advance, ensuring a smooth and convenient end to your day.

What's included / not included

Hotel pickup and drop-offWine tastingDriver/guideAir conditioned mini-vanSkip the lineVisit the castles and get to know its history with an audio-guide(Optional) Delicious three course lunch at a local restaurant including starter main and desert
Gratuities

Additional information

Accessibility and comfort

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Good to know

  • Those under 18 years of age will be offered a variety of nonalcoholic grape juices

Traveller reviews

4.923 reviews

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