We highly recommend a visit to Saumur, this historic town nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley! The city is renowned for its exceptional heritage, including the famous Château de Saumur overlooking the town. Beyond its unique medieval architecture, we were seduced by its troglodytic cellars and renowned vineyards. It's a Mecca for gastronomy and wine!
In this article, you'll discover a list of 12 ideas for what to do in Saumur, illustrated by numerous photos. We've added some useful tips and bonus activities!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Visit the Château de Saumur and its Horse Museum
Why visit?
Proudly perched on a rocky spur (aptly nicknamed the "Emerald Rock" by René I d'Anjou), Château de Saumur towers 60m above the royal river and blends magnificently into the landscape.
With its ramparts, typical Loire tuffeau walls and slate roof, it can be seen from 20km around and is instantly recognizable. Inside, you'll discover a 360° panoramic view of the city from the belvedere, the Musée du Cheval and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, both unexpected and fascinating! We were charmed by the view of the historic building from the other side of the river. A magnificent play of mirrors across the water.
Practical advice
- Allow 2 to 2h30 to visit the castle and contemplate its incredible view.
- Overlooking the valley, you reach the building by climbing a slope.
- During your visit, you won't be able to escape the steps. It should also be noted that the ground in the yard and basement is not always even.
- If you're planning to climb up to the lookout, you'll need good knees and suitable footwear. The staircase is particularly steep and cramped.
- Price: €9 full price, free for children under 7.
- Opening hours: open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5:30pm in low season, and daily from 10am to 7pm in July and August. More up-to-date info here.
- For lunch, 2 establishments await you at the foot of the château: Restaurant L'Orangeraie and Restaurant Le Terrier du Château.
For more information, see our full article on the Château de Saumur.
2. Explore the Parc Troglodyte Pierre et Lumière
Why visit?
In our opinion, the Pierre et Lumière troglodyte site in Saumur is one of a kind! It offers a fascinating insight into the region's underground history. With its galleries dug into the limestone rock, we enjoyed an immersive experience through the centuries.
You'll admire captivating sculptures, staging and lighting effects that highlight the exceptional character of this troglodytic heritage. Explore the different rooms, and discover the secrets of these atypical dwellings, witnesses of an ancestral way of life.
Practical advice
- Allow 1 to 1h30 to visit the underground miniature park.
- To get to the site from downtown, you'll need a car (12min drive).
- A former troglodyte park, the ground is sometimes uneven, and some passages narrow. You'll have to travel beneath darkened underground galleries. We do not recommend this activity if you suffer from claustrophobia.
- Price: €9 full price, combined ticket options with the Mushroom Museum
and/or the Jardin du Puygirault. Find out more here. - Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in low season, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April to September.
- There are no restaurants nearby, so you'll have to go to downtown Saumur.
WHERE TO STAY IN Saumur
Downtown
Enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
- Hotel Saint Pierre - a historic stay! - see prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Château La Marquise - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Anne d'Anjou - prices, pictures and availability
In the countryside around
Looking for a bit of peace and quiet, without straying too far from the city of Angers? Here's our suggestion:
- Hotel Demeure de la Vignole - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Joly Foudres - unusual in barrels - prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel de l'abbaye de Fontevraud - prices, pictures and availability
3. Visit the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud
Why visit?
The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic cities in Europe inherited from the Middle Ages. This historic site in the heart of the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We were amazed by this architectural feat from another era. During the visit, so many details are revealed to the curious eye!
Founded by Robert d'Arbrissel in 1101, the abbey made its mark on the church world in 1115 when an abbess (feminine of abbot, superior of an abbey) was appointed to head it. The monastery also served as a necropolis for the Plantagenet royal family. Following the Revolution of 1789, Napoleon decided to convert the building into a prison. Since 1975, it has been operating as a cultural center.
Practical advice
- Allow half a day, or even a full day, to visit the entire site.
- To get to the site from downtown Saumur, you'll need a car (22min drive).
- To reach the Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud from the parking lot, drive through the village.
- It's a very large monastic city, so you'll be walking for a long time. There are also staircases and raised floors. This is not ideal for people with mobility problems.
- Price: €13 on average for an adult ticket. However, rates change throughout the year.
- Opening times: vary according to the season, from 10am to 6pm in low season (closed on Tuesdays) to 10am to 8pm in high season. More up-to-date info here.
- Within the abbey grounds, you'll find 2 restaurants: La Terrasse Gourmande and Thibaut Ruggeri's Michelin-starred restaurant.
Discover our article on the Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
4. Immersion in the equestrian world at the Cadre Noir
Why visit?
The town of Saumur and the equestrian world are closely linked, thanks to the presence of the École Nationale d'Équitation. It is one of the world's most prestigious centers in this field. The school is particularly renowned for its Cadre Noir, a corps of teaching riders. Visiting the town, we noticed the many references to horses: between the Musée de la Cavalerie, and the Musée du Cheval at the Château de Saumur.
The Cadre Noir is renowned for its excellence in the equestrian art. You can explore the site on a guided tour, or take part in a spectacular gala or matinee. We really recommend this activity to families looking for contact with animals. More info on the official website here.
Practical advice
- Allow 1 to 2 hours for a guided tour of the site.
- There are different visit formats: "classic", "family" or "initiated". It's up to you to choose according to your personal interests and level of knowledge in the field.
- To get to the site from downtown, you'll need a car (9min drive).
- For those with reduced mobility, please note that the tour route and the Grand Manège are wheelchair-accessible. It is also possible to request a wheelchair or seat cane from reception.
- The price will depend on the guided tour you choose. It fluctuates between €8.50 and €12. There are discounts for families. Consult the current rates here.
- Opening hours: Mondays from 2pm to 5:30pm, Tuesdays to Fridays from 9:30am to 12:30pm and from 2pm to 5:30pm. Finally, on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.
- There's no catering nearby, so you'll have to picnic on site, or head for downtown Saumur.
5. Dive into military history at the Musée des Blindés
Why visit?
If you're a military history buff or a war machine enthusiast, we highly recommend a visit to the Musée des Blindés. It's a unique opportunity to learn more about combat tactics, military engineering and the impact of armored vehicles on the battlefield. It's an enriching and memorable experience.
Featuring an impressive collection of armored vehicles, from battle tanks to transport vehicles, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of modern warfare. We admired rare pieces, unique prototypes and equipment used in major conflicts.
Practical advice
- Allow 1h30 to 2h to visit the site.
- From downtown Saumur, it's a 7-minute drive by car, or a 30-minute walk to the museum.
- Set up on one level, you won't encounter any particular difficulties during your visit. The aisles are wide and airy, making it easy to get around.
- Price: €11 full price, combined ticket options with Cavalry Museum. Find out more here.
- Opening hours: open from 10am to 5pm from February to April and from November to December (closed on Thursdays), open daily from 10am to 6pm from April to November.
- There are no restaurants nearby, so you'll have to go to downtown Saumur.
Our article on the Musée des Blindés in Saumur will be available soon.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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6. Viewing the château from the Loire
Why search?
As soon as we arrived in the town, we embarked on a quest: to find the best viewpoint of the Château de Saumur. As we crossed the bridge from downtown to Île Offard, our backs were to the majestic building. Once on the other side of the river, we passed the Hôtel Mercure to enjoy a superb panoramic view of the historic monument. In fact, this establishment features in our article on the city's best hotels, as it boasts a terrace with a breathtaking view. On a clear day, the reflection of the castle in the river is breathtaking!
For an even more unique experience, climb aboard a traditional boat! You can contemplate the château directly from the Loire. We highly recommend this family-friendly outing.
Practical advice
- To find the best views of the castle, you'll have to walk a long way and cross a bridge over which cars drive. Keep a close eye on your children at this time.
- We advise you to opt for the boat trip if you've got your sea legs. It lasts 1 hour, and tickets are reasonably priced.
- It's a great activity for the whole family.
- Book your traditional boat trip on the Loire now!
7. Discover the secret techniques of the Distillerie Combier
Why visit?
Didactic and dynamic, the tour of the site is rich in information and anecdotes. We learned some fascinating things about the history of Maison Combier, as well as about distillation techniques. The final tasting of the distillery's signature products rounds off the experience in style!
Distillerie Combier is renowned for its long history and innovation. It's one of the oldest in the Loire region. Recognized for the excellence of its elixirs, it was awarded the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label in 2016. It's a mark of recognition from the French state, distinguishing companies with exceptional know-how. Find out more here.
Practical advice
- Allow 30min to 1h to discover the distillery, its history, stills and elixirs.
- Located in the city center, 3 minutes' walk from the Cavalry Museum and 20 minutes from Saumur Castle.
- The site is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Price: €6 full price, free for under-18s.
- Opening hours: store open Tuesday to Saturday. Tours depart at 10:30 am, 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm. More up-to-date info here.
- Numerous restaurants, bars and cafés nearby.
Read our full article on Distillerie Combier in Saumur.
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8. Explore the cellars of Maison Louis de Grenelle
Why visit?
Maison Louis de Grenelle produces exceptional sparkling wines. It's just a few yards from the Church of Notre-Dame-de-Nantilly, which is also well worth a visit. Combining tastings and historical accounts, this tour is a real treat for wine enthusiasts. The company is renowned for its high-quality sparkling wines, made using traditional methods. We offer a wide range of sparkling wines, including crémants de Loire, fine bubbles and special cuvées. In fact, why not take home a bottle to extend your trip?
We loved exploring these ancient tufa quarries. Did you know that they were once used to build the chateaux of the Loire Valley?
Practical advice
- Allow 30 minutes for the tour, followed by a 30-minute tasting session.
- The tour is also available in English.
- From the Château de Saumur, it's about a 20-minute walk.
- Troglodytic site and caves, you'll have to navigate through underground galleries plunged into darkness. We do not recommend this activity if you suffer from claustrophobia.
- If you're feeling chilly, take a sweater with you, as the temperature in the cellars is 12°.
- Price: €5 full price for adults, free for children under 16.
- Tours depart at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday in low season, and at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Sunday in summer. Book your slot here.
- Good range of restaurants nearby.
9. Visit the Ackerman troglodyte cellars
Why visit?
We were very curious to visit the Caves Ackerman. The first and oldest fine bubbles house in the Val-de-Loire! We knew it from its renowned sparkling wine production. Founded in 1811, the cellars are dug into ancient tufa quarries, which provide optimal conditions for ageing wines.
During our oenological exploration, we really enjoyed the staging and lighting effects. We discovered the secrets of making great vintages, and delved into the history of the Saumur wine region. The vast cellars also host contemporary art exhibitions.
Practical advice
- Allow 45min to 1h to visit the troglodytic cellars.
- From the city center, it's an 8-minute drive to the estate.
- Troglodytic site and caves, you'll have to navigate through underground galleries plunged into darkness. We do not recommend this activity if you suffer from claustrophobia.
- If you're feeling chilly, take a sweater with you, as the temperature in the cellars is 12°.
- The site is accessible to people with reduced mobility. See info here.
- Price: €6 for a self-guided tour, €8 for a guided tour (only available in July and August).
- Opening hours: open from 10 to 12:30 and from 14 to 18:30 in low season, from 9:30 to 12:30 and from 14 to 19 in mid season, and from 9:30 to 19 in high season. Consult the latest timetables here.
- There are no restaurants nearby, so you'll have to go to downtown Saumur.
10. Admire Saint Peter's Church
Why visit?
Even before crossing the threshold of St. Peter's Church, we took the time to contemplate its 17th-century eastern facade. It was restored in 2008 following the collapse of the first Gothic façade.
In fact, this religious edifice is representative of both Romanesque and Plantagenet Gothic architecture. Once inside, we looked up to contemplate the vaulted ceilings. They are emblematic of the Gothic style dating from the 12th and 13th centuries. This place of worship is also renowned for its series of 15th-century stalls.
Practical advice
- Allow between 10 and 30 minutes to visit the site, depending on your level of interest.
- From the Château de Saumur, it's a 7-minute walk to the church.
- You won't have any particular difficulty entering the religious building, which is all on one level.
- Access is free of charge.
- Opening hours: open daily from 10 am to 7 pm.
- Good range of restaurants nearby.
11. Stroll through the historic center
Why visit?
You'll also be charmed by Saumur's historic center. We enjoyed strolling along the town's beautiful alleys, where the white tufa stones of the buildings light up the strides of passers-by. A blend of different architectural styles, the town is dominated by Renaissance and 19th-century styles.
Look up and take time to contemplate the finely sculpted decorations that adorn the façades and pediments here and there. Scrolls and pilasters took us back in time. Linger in Place Saint-Pierre and admire the few medieval half-timbered houses, remnants of the town's medieval past. If you're really curious, we recommend a guided tour of the city!
Practical advice
- Allow 45min to 1h to visit Saumur's historic center.
- Floors can be raised, and some alleys narrow. Wear comfortable shoes!
- Numerous restaurants, bars and cafés nearby.
- Tempted by a walking tour with a local guide? - See prices, photos and availability.
12. Visit Candes-Saint-Martin and Montsoreau
Why visit?
Just a 20-minute drive from Saumur, Candes-Saint-Martin features in our article on the most beautiful villages in the Loire Valley. We loved visiting this place of character, which is sometimes confused with Montsoreau. In fact, these 2 villages are located right next to each other. The famous château on the banks of the Loire is in Montsoreau.
Candes-Saint-Martin lies at the confluence of the Vienne and Loire rivers, a strategic location that has enabled the village to develop as a river port. Between the tufa stone houses and the cobbled streets, we were delighted by this visit. Like us, you'll be amazed by the church's facade!
Practical advice
- Allow 1.5 hours to explore the entire village and the road to the panorama. Allow an extra 1h30 to visit the Château de Montsoreau too.
- To get there from downtown Saumur, you'll need a car (20min drive). Parking lots are available at the ends of the village. There are very few places in the village.
- We advise you to wear good shoes, as the streets are cobbled and steep.
- Book your ticket to Château de Montsoreau here!
- Catering available on site.
- Les plus beaux villages de France" label.
- See the best rated accommodations around Candes-Saint-Martin.
DISCOVER Saumur
- Best things to do in Saumur
- Where to sleep in Saumur: best hotels
- Where to eat in Saumur: best restaurants
- Visit the Château de Saumur
- Visit Fontevraud Abbey
- The most beautiful castles around Saumur
- Saumur's troglodytes
- itineraries: weekend
Things to do in and around Saumur: other ideas?
Need more inspiration? See our selection of additional activities:
Things to do in Saumur
Do you share a passion for wine with your partner in life? The number of wine cellars in Saumur is impressive. Wine tourism is highly developed. Here are our recommendations for an enjoyable moment for 2 around fine wines:
- Caves Gratien & Meyer (Saumur): the house opens the doors of its troglodytic cellars. After the underground exploration, you'll move on to the tasting. Book your visit here.
- Caves Langlois - Crémant de Loire (Saumur): choose from 3 different experiences combining wine tasting, an introduction to oenology and a visit to the winery. Find out more here.
- Caves Bouvet Ladubay (Saumur): founded in 1851. Would you like to discover the secrets of sparkling wine making on a guided tour? Visit the official website here.
- Domaine Filliatreau - La Grande Vignolle (Turquant): we were won over by our visit to this site, which combines vineyards, troglodytic cellars and a historic monument. See more here.
- Domaine Ratron - Le Clos des Cordeliers (Souzay-Champigny): tempted by a walk through a superb vineyard in the company of a winemaker? Find out more here.
Things to do around Saumur
In the Saumur area, you'll discover other remarkable troglodyte sites. We particularly recommend the following:
- Les Troglos de la Sablière (Doué-en-Anjou) - Official website here.
- Troglodytes et sarcophages (Doué-la-Fontaine) - Official website here.
- Le Mystère des Faluns - Les Perrières (Doué-la-Fontaine) - Official website here.
- Rochemenier - Troglodytic village (Louresse-Rochemenier): - Official website here.
Visit a nearby Loire château
Take a look at our article on the best châteaux around Saumur. Alternatively, here's our selection of nearby châteaux:
- Château de Montreuil-Bellay (18km),
- Château de Montsoreau - Museum of Contemporary Art (14km),
- Château de Brézé (11.5km)
- Château d'Ussé (34km),
- Château de Brissac (36km).
Family activities in and around Saumur
Not sure what to do with your children in Saumur? Don't worry, there's plenty to choose from! Here's our small, made-to-measure selection:
- Petit train du Val de Loire (Saumur) - Official website here.
- Jardins du Puygirault (Saumur) - Official website here.
- Doué-la-Fontaine Biopark - Official website here.
- Champignonnière Le Saut Aux Loups (Montsoreau) - Official website here.
- Cave Vivante du Champignon (Le Puy-Notre-Dame).
- Roseraie - Les Chemins de la Rose (Doué-la-Fontaine) - Official website here.
Things to do in and around Saumur when it rains?
In case of rain, you can take refuge in one of the town's museums, including the Musée de la Cavalerie, the Musée du Champignon, or the Musée Les Pommes Tapées du Val de Loire in Turquant.
Religious buildings such as theÉglise Notre-Dame-de-Nantilly are also covered. Oenophiles will prefer to visit the city's wine cellars!
Excursions around Saumur: including 3 bike tours
To explore the vineyards around Saumur and taste some exceptional wines, we recommend this selection of organized tours:
Loire biking and wine tasting
- 2 days cycling on the theme of wine: during this 48-hour cycling tour, you'll have the chance to talk to winemakers and discover the secrets of wine-making. Electric bike rental, overnight stay and meals included - see prices, photos and availability.
- Country walks between Chinon and Saumur: take part in a guided bike tour from Chinon to Saumur. Pass through vineyards, taste fine wine and enjoy an invigorating picnic break - see prices, photos and availability.
- Oenological expedition by bike: on a traditional or electric bike ride along the Loire, you'll discover, among other things, Château de Targé as told by its owner - see prices, photos and availability.
By vehicle
- A 3-day excursion from Paris to Normandy and the châteaux of the Loire: do you dream of visiting Mont-Saint-Michel, Omaha Beach, Rouen, Honfleur, the châteaux of Chenonceau and Chambord, Saumur, and many other incredible cultural sites? Opt for this all-inclusive expedition including hotel accommodation and meals - see prices, photos and availability.
- One-day wine tour: picked up directly at your hotel in Saumur, you're off for 7 hours of exploration in an air-conditioned vehicle. In addition to vineyard tours and tastings, you'll enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by fine wine of course - see prices, photos and availability.
Useful tips for visiting Saumur
Where is Saumur?
The town of Saumur is located in the Maine-et-Loire department, in the Pays de la Loire region of France.
- Driving time to Tours: 1h,
- Driving time to Angers: 1h,
- Driving time to Nantes: 1h50.
Here's a map of the best things to do in Saumur to help you find your way in and around the town:
How to get to Saumur
Saumur lies at the center of the Loire Valley, equidistant from Angers and Tours.
- By train: Saumur's SNCF train station serves nearby towns such as Angers (20min) and Tours (30min), as well as Nantes, Lyon and even Paris.
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
- By car: from the capital, take the A11 freeway for 3 hours 20 minutes. To visit nearby towns and the Loire castles, we strongly recommend you use a car. This will make getting around much easier.
- By bike: Saumur is part of the Loire à vélo circuit, so you can opt for multi-day cycling tours that stop off in this pretty town!
Parking in Saumur
In Saumur, there are several options for parking. There are numerous public parking lots in the city center, as well as street parking spaces, often regulated by parking meters. We particularly recommend the strategically located Parking Centr'Halles.
You'll also find 1,825 free parking spaces throughout the city, less than a 20-minute walk from the center. Find out more about parking here.
Where to eat in Saumur
Throughout the city, you'll find many excellent places to eat. Here's our small selection for you:
- Restaurant L'Essentiel: with its affordable menu inspired by the market and renewed every season, we had a wonderful time. The location also has plenty of character, making the experience all the more memorable!
- Restaurant L'Escargot 49: from amuse-bouche to dessert, we ate very well. The homemade dishes were delicious and beautifully presented.
- Restaurant Masama: we spent a pleasant moment on the terrace of this friendly establishment. The healthy, colorful cuisine totally won us over!
For more inspiration, check out our full article on the best restaurants in Saumur (coming soon).
Visiting Saumur in winter
Planning a stay in Saumur during the winter season? This is a very good idea, as you'll avoid the summer crowds. Tourism is booming in the Loire Valley, especially in summer.
The medieval town offers a wealth of tourist attractions, even in the depths of winter. With the Château de Saumur, numerous wine cellars and museums, you'll have no time to get bored! All these indoor activities will help you get out of the cold. Just remember to check the opening hours of the venue beforehand.
Our article listing the best things to do in the city in winter will soon be available for further inspiration!
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley