Looking to plan your 3-day Loire Valley itinerary and don't know where to start? Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, we'll try to help.
It's hard to choose between the countless magnificent castles along the royal river, and you'll need to be astute to complement your visits with the best choice of hotels and restaurants.
In this article, we'll start by giving you a few tips on how to best plan your stay, followed by a selection of our favorite tours. With plenty of photos to help you make your own choice.
These reviews are completely independent, we visited anonymously and paid for our admissions, accommodation and restaurants in full.
6 tips for visiting the Loire Valley in 3 days
1. Map of the main Loire châteaux
As a picture is sometimes worth a thousand words, we've prepared a small map showing the main châteaux of the Loire Valley and major towns to help you find your way around.
2. Departure city
If you're coming by train, and given the relatively short duration of your stay, we recommend departing from Tours - Saint Pierre des Corps, which is the TGV station closest to the main châteaux.
We've also put together a tour starting from Angers that allows you to travel further up the Loire and enjoy the magnificent scenery of this wild river.
Last option, Blois, which is a little less central and requires a change, but offers sufficient choice for 3 days.
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
If you're coming by plane, you can either fly into Nantes airport and reach Tours by TGV or car, or land in Paris and rent a car at the airport(Charles de Gaulle or Orly).
3. The right rhythm
Visiting castles, especially the most imposing (Chambord, Chenonceau...) takes time. In addition to the richness of the architecture and furnishings, you'll often have to travel long distances, especially if you want to visit the gardens.
We recommend that you don't try to see too much, or you'll leave frustrated and looking at your watch. It's best to start withone castle per day, or 2 if you're working on smaller castles.
But you'll see that, alongside the chateaux, there are many beautiful villages to discover in the Loire Valley, and towns with a rich heritage to explore (cathedrals, museums, historic centers...).
4. The right equipment
As you'll see, our ancestors were very fond of steps, and staircases were a place of pageantry. As for old-fashioned cobblestones, while they have a charm all of their own, they don't offer the same qualities of comfort as our modern paving.
Without necessarily going for hiking boots, we advise you to avoid open or slippery shoes.
Don't forget to bring a water bottle, as not all castles have catering facilities, and the crowds could slow you down unnecessarily.
5. Opt for a ticket
Many castles offer special tickets via specialized platforms. We'll provide you with the links whenever this option is available.
They can save you precious time, allowing you to concentrate on the essentials. We're big fans of these solutions.
6. Moving between castles
Unfortunately, you won't have the choice: to visit the châteaux of the Loire freely, you'll need a car or good legs to enjoy the pleasant Loire bike trails. There are also a number of buses, mainly departing from Tours.
We've still put together a car-free tour for you, but the choice is inevitably more limited, as most of the castles were built three centuries before the development of the train!
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.
Route A: departing from Tours
Want to get straight to the point and see the most famous Loire castles? We propose a tour departing from Tours that will take you back in time to the great hours of French history... En route!
Day 1: Amboise
To get you started, we suggest a first day in Amboise, 35 minutes from Tours station. The town is fortunate to have 3 castles open to visitors. The town has enjoyed a renaissance since the redevelopment of Clos Lucé, a manor house and chateau that was the last residence of Italian genius Leonardo da Vinci.
Morning - The Royal Château of Amboise
The château stands 40 meters above the Loire. King Charles VIII of France was born and died here, and François I spent much of his childhood here.
Main points of interest:
- An exceptional view of the Loire and its tributaries from the top of the Tour des Minimes.
- Saint Hubert's chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci's remains are believed to be buried (we investigated Leonardo da Vinci's death in this article).
- The descent through the interior of the Minimes and Heurtault towers, which were designed to allow riders and supplies to reach the château without setting foot on the ground. Impressive and unique in the Loire!
- Learn more in our article.
Estimated visit duration: 1h30 to 2h
Open all year round.
Afternoon - Le Clos Lucé
The last home of Lénoard de Vinci, it has recently been completely renovated and, above all, completed with a veritable"mini-amusement park" for discovering the Italian master's creations.
Main points of interest:
- The château's grounds, where you can see Leonardo da Vinci's avant-garde inventions up close and in action.
- The manor house chapel, where you can imagine the Italian master meditating
- The Leonardo da Vinci Gallery offers an immersive digital journey through his artistic work.
- Read more in our article
Estimated visit duration: 2h30 to 4h
Open all year round.
Where to stay in Amboise - the best hotels
- Our favorite: the Château de Perreux. A 10-minute drive from Amboise, sleep in an authentic château built in 1701 with a troglodytic lobby (built right into the rock). We loved this cocooning experience!
Our complete article on our night / see See prices, photos and availability - The traditional: Hotel le Choiseul
Ideally located just a stone's throw from the town center, but far enough away to offer a view of the château, Hôtel le Choiseul immerses you in the bourgeois ambience of early 20th-century hotels.
Our full review of our night at the Choiseul hotel (coming soon) / See prices, photos and availability. - The heart of the city: Hôtel Le Charme Rabelaisien
Set in an 18th-century house in the heart of Amboise's historic district, this hotel offers spacious rooms decorated in a blend of 4-star standards and traditional family homes. See prices, photos and availability
Or see our article on the best hotels in Amboise.
Where to eat in Amboise - the best restaurants
- Our favorite: Restaurant La Brêche
A magnificent culinary voyage led by chef Jérôme Bertgelot and his daughter Justine, who takes care of the pastry-making. The cuisine is daring and creative, and the presentation of the dishes overwhelmed us. In short, we loved it! See the site - For a great meal on the go: Restaurant Le Maître d'Art
Ideal for a break before or after Le Clos Lucé, this small restaurant just opposite the entrance to Le Clos Lucé offers fresh, simple cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. And the desserts are really tasty... See the menu - Gastronomic: Restaurant Les Arpents
Ideally located in the historic center of Amboise, the restaurant offers quality cuisine, perfectly mastered in an unpretentious atmosphere. See the site
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in the Loire Valley a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
If you wish to be informed of the publication of our guide on the Loire, register:
Day 2: Blois
After this introduction, we move on to the "big chunk" of your stay with the Château de Chambord. Although you can sleep on site, we recommend that you opt for the friendly town of Blois, just 30 minutes from Amboise.
Morning and early afternoon - Château de Chambord
The most imposing and surely the most famous of the Loire Châteaux, Château de Chambord was commissioned by François I on his return from the victorious battle of Marignan to demonstrate the power of France.
Main points of interest:
- The double spiral staircase: This staircase allowed people to go up and down without ever passing each other, thanks to its two distinct spirals, and served the different floors of the château. It blends craftsmanship, finesse of decoration and a sense of pageantry, a typical Renaissance alliance. Some attribute this achievement to Leonardo da Vinci.
- The terraces: The castle's terraces offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding park and its forests, which for a long time were dedicated to hunting, but which (like us!) you can now safely explore by bike.
- Northwest tower chapel: This 16th-century chapel in the castle's northwest tower features Romanesque vaults and subtle 19th-century stained glass windows. We appreciated the calm and sobriety of the setting, amidst the hustle and bustle of this much-visited château.
- Read more in our article
Estimated visit duration: 4 to 6 hours
Open all year round.
Late afternoon: the town of Blois
We were really charmed by this town, with its rich historical heritage and human scale, on the banks of the Loire.
Main points of interest:
- The old town streets between the Château de Blois and the Cathedral: many half-timbered and timber-framed houses, as well as the Renaissance mansions in which the great families of the Blois region lived.
- Les jardins de l'évêché, located in the immediate vicinity of Blois Cathedral, offers visitors the chance to stroll through a vast 3300m2 rose garden and admire the city and the Loire River.
- The Pont Jacques Gabriel and the banks of the Loire offer a beautiful view of the city and a little nature break in the middle of your visits.
The Château de Blois is particularly rich and exciting, but also well worth a half-day visit. We can't seriously advise you to visit the castles of Chambord and Blois, but if you really want to... Buy your tickets.
Where to stay in Blois - the best hotels
- Our favorite: Hôtel Fleur de Loire
A magnificent luxury hotel recently established in a former hospice along the Loire. It is the masterpiece of two-starred chef Christophe Hay, who offers a perfect experience in the room, in the spa and, of course, around one of the hotel's 2 tables. A little folly that we really haven't regretted!!!! See prices, photos and availability. - The unusual: Hôtel Le Relais de Chambord
Another unique experience is Le Relais de Chambord, located close to the Château and offering, in some rooms (including ours!), a view of the Château. But more than that, what's really great is to be able to enjoy the park once all the day's visitors have left. See prices, photos and availability. - Hotel Château des Basses Roches
- see prices, pictures and availability
Or see our article on the best hotels in Blois.
Where to eat in Blois - the best restaurants
- Must-See: Fleur de Loire Restaurant
Unsurprisingly, we once again recommend Christophe Hay's 2 restaurants, the gastronomic one in the heart of the hotel and the bistronomic Restaurant L'Amour Blanc, set in an extension of the hotel with a breathtaking view of the hotel. We could have made the meal last a long, long time to enjoy the setting. See the site and make a reservation. - Le surprenant: Restaurant Au Rendez-Vous des Pêcheurs
Although far from the first coastline, the best of the sea is on offer at this beautiful address, with its bewitching ambience, the result of a highly successful work on lighting and painting. We had a wonderful time! See the site and book - Le décalé: Restaurant Le Petit Honfleur
Once again, don't let the name fool you: we're in Blois, but in a wooden-beamed house reminiscent of those surrounding the famous Honfleur basin. A very Franco-French fusion of the best of Norman and Loire cuisines. As good Normans, we had to come and make sure that our know-how was well defended (and it is)! See the Facebook page
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Day 3: Chenonceau
You're now entering the home stretch of your stay, and the final bouquet promises to be just right, with what is, for us, the most beautiful château in the Loire Valley, Chenonceau, and a village that has completely seduced us, Montrésor.
Morning - Château de Chenonceau
After a 45-minute return journey, you are approaching the famous "Château de la Loire on the river"Chenonceau, which elegantly spans the Cher River. It is also regularly baptized as "Ladies' castle"It owes its layout to the great female figures of French history: Diane de Poitiers (favorite of Henri II), Cathérine de Médicis and Louise de Lorraine.
Main points of interest:
- The gallery: 60 meters long, this ballroom seems to float above the river Cher. Take the time to admire the view from the 18 bays that give it its incomparable light. Magic!
- The Diane de Poitiers garden: in addition to the interest of this Italian-style garden, it offers one of the finest views, in our opinion, of the château and the 5 arches spanning the river.
- The Queen's apothecary: unique in the Loire castles, we owe it to Catherine de Médicis, who never travelled without her physicians and perfumers. The wooden ensemble is beautiful and even enchanting.
- Learn more in our article.
But to keep the article short, we've limited ourselves to just 3 outstanding features. The château's architecture, furnishings and works of art, not to mention its gardens, are truly exceptional!
Tour duration: 2h30 to 4h.
Open all year round
Afternoon: village of Montrésor
After our favorite château, what could be more logical than to follow it up with our favorite Loire village, Montrésor. Situated 30 minutes from Chenonceau, it offers a full range of what makes the soul of a Loire village.
Main points of interest:
- Its castle, though modest, is truly charming and offers a fine condensation of history: from the medieval fortress to the Second Empire furniture, not forgetting the unmissable Renaissance dwelling.
- Its bucolic walk along the river Iroise: a little moment in suspension, for this beautiful walk along the little river Iroise, with a beautiful view of the castle and the village.
- Its stone houses and narrow streets give structure and charm to the village.
Take time for a gourmet break at Boulangerie Beaugrand, reputed to be one of the best in Touraine.
Evening: return to Tours
In just 1 hour, you're back in Tours, for a final evening before getting back on the train. It's an opportunity to try out one or two of the city's restaurants and stroll through the lively historic center of Tours in the evening.
Where to sleep in Tours - best hotels
- Luxury: Hôtel Les Trésorières.
A little extravagance to finish off your trip? A 5-star hotel just a stone's throw from Les Halles de Tours and the historic city center. We loved the 1001 details that make this an exceptional place. See prices, photos and availability. - The charm of the old, the comfort of the new: Hôtel L'Océania in Tours
As in Nantes, the small Breton hotel chain has restored the lustre of this beautiful hotel, opened in 1846, close to the station. We particularly enjoyed relaxing in the small spa after those long days of sightseeing. See prices, photos and availability. - One last château, with a night at Château Belmont.
Set in 2.5 hectares of beautiful parkland just a few minutes from Tours city center, Château Belmont is the perfect way to round off your stay. A real little bubble, with a quality table and a pleasant spa. See prices, photos and availability.
Or see our article on the best hotels in Tours.
Where to eat in Tours - Best restaurants
- The creative: Restaurant Le Casse-cailloux
Set in a small street, this smartly decorated restaurant offers ultra-creative cuisine that blends flavors and influences. From the lamb's lettuce soup, truffle cream and scrambled egg to the matcha bergamot sablé with blood orange cream, we didn't bother. See the site - La crêperie revisitée: Restaurant Espace Hades Tours
After visiting Tours Cathedral, we were looking for a simple, healthy lunch, and were drawn to this crêperie that promises to revisit galettes. Clearly, the challenge has been met with talent and good humour, and the secret is in the flour... See the Facebook page - L'exotique: Restaurant Makeda
For once, we let ourselves be tempted by a little exoticism with this Ethiopian restaurant. This is a real culinary journey, with spices (in moderation) and 4-5 dishes to discover the diversity of this cuisine. And the icing on the cake is the coffee, an Ethiopian mocha of course, pot-roasted that very afternoon by the owner. A treat, and God knows we're picky when it comes to coffee! See the site
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.
Route B: departing from Angers
If you've already seen the "blockbusters" of the Loire, and would like to continue your discovery of the châteaux of the Loire, we've put together a tour from Angers that's sure to surprise you! Here we go...
Day 1: Angers to Saumur
We're about to start our journey up the Loire, but first we'd like to take you on a little detour to a little-known yet truly captivating and authentic chateau: Serrant. We can then head for the majestic town of Saumur.
Morning - Château de Serrant
Located just 20 minutes from Angers train station, Le Château de Serrant immerses you right from the start of this tour in château life as we dream it. It owes this to the exceptional preservation of its furnishings , which have been passed down from owner to owner for over five centuries, and to the fact that it is still inhabited year-round by its owners.
Main points of interest:
- The library boasts 12,000 books, including some rare editions, as well as game furniture (billiards, backgammon, etc.). All wood and leather, the ambience of this large room is literally spellbinding...
- The chapel, dedicated to Saint Michel , was designed in the late 17th century by Jules Hardouin Mansart, who designed the Hall of Mirrors at the Château de Versailles. Although modest in size, it is truly impressive and unexpected.
- The monumental staircase in the center of the château's main wing is reminiscent of the architecture of the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, with its many richly sculpted caissons.
- Read more in our article (coming soon)
Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h (a guided tour is required to enter the library)
Afternoon: Saumur and its château
You'll now have a nice drive to Saumur. We strongly recommend you avoid the freeway, preferring the"route de la levée" (Départementale 952) which runs alongside the Loire. In addition to the typical landscapes of the last wild river of the Loire (sandbanks, islands, riverside vegetation, birds...), you will pass through many charming villages, such as Saint Mathurin Sur Loire, les Rosiers... 1h15 drive. diving into the Loire of postcards with a majestic finish at Saumur, proudly dominated by its castle!
Saumur's main points of interest
- The Château de Saumur: a castle with a turbulent but fascinating history. We recommend you climb up to its belvedere, where you can enjoy a 30-kilometre panoramic view. Learn more with our article.
- Le cadre noir de Saumur: immerse yourself in the elite of French equitation with the most famous of French schools, whose history is intrinsically linked to the military life of Saumur.
- Crémant de Loire wineries: Saumur is also known for its crémants, which use Champagne methods to produce high-quality sparkling wines. Several houses have developed cultural offerings to complement their tastings, including a trip to the center of bubbles offered by Ackerman in its former troglodytic cellars. A truly beautiful moment full of freshness!
Tour duration: 2h30 to 4h.
See our article on Saumur's top attractions.
Where to stay in Saumur
- Intimate: Hôtel Saint Pierre
Nestled in the old town, on a quiet street, this small hotel offers a human-scale experience with very appreciable comfort. Having Scottish blood, we couldn't help but appreciate the hotel's incredible whisky bar, which collects references from every continent. See prices, photos and availability. - The traditional: Hôtel Anne d'Anjou
Facing the Loire, this hotel is a listed building. Anxious to preserve this rich past, the owners have designed the decor to be consistent with it, giving it an old-fashioned charm that's completely in tune with the atmosphere of the town. See prices, photos and availability. - The unusual: Hotel Demeure de la Vignole
Just 15 minutes from Saumur, enjoy an original experience at this hotel where some of the rooms have been dug out of the rock, and where you can swim in the heart of the tuffeau, the white stone of the Loire. See prices, photos and availability.
Where to eat in Saumur
- Our favorite: Restaurant L'essentiel
Located in the courtyard of the Hôtel Anne d'Anjou, this restaurant offers creative, high-quality cuisine at affordable prices. All the more so as the setting is pleasant, the wine list impressive and some tables overlook the château. We enjoyed ourselves and had a wonderful evening. See website and book. - The safe bet: Restaurant L'escargot
A family atmosphere in this restaurant offering the best of French cuisine, including their signature dish, escargots (we had the 3-butter variation). View menu - The exotic: Restaurant Le Masama
In the center of Saumur, a couple of Colombian restaurateurs trained in France have opened this friendly little restaurant, offering a fusion of Latin and French influences. Delicious and friendly! See website and book.
Day 2 - Ussé and Le Rivau
On this second day, we continue up the Loire with 2 truly enchanting châteaux: the Châteaux d'Ussé and the Châteaux du Rivau. To reach the first point (35-minute drive from Saumur), we recommend you take the left bank (RD 947), passing through the villages of Turquant and especially Candes Saint Martin, typical of the Loire banks.
Morning - Château d'Ussé
As we said, you're entering a fairytale world with the Château d'Ussé, which directly inspired the author of"Sleeping Beauty", Charles Perrault.
Main points of interest:
- The château's architecture, the fruit of three centuries of construction, blends medieval and Gothic inspiration with the Renaissance style.
- The dungeon houses a wax doll recreation of the fairytale "Sleeping Beauty".
- The gardens designed by the King's gardener, Le Nôtre, who notably created the gardens of Versailles. Even if the dimensions are not comparable, we were seduced by the harmony that reigns here, supported by the geometry of the landscape.
- Learn more in our article.
Open mid-February to mid-November
Allow 2 to 3 hours
Afternoon - Chateau du Rivau
Take a temporary break from the Loire to discover one of our favorites, the Chateau du Rivau. Initially built around the farming of the surrounding land, it has retained its botanical vocation, which the new owners have sublimated. A truly enchanted interlude in your stay.
Main points of interest:
- The owner's 15 fairytale-themed gardens, including the magnificent Fairy Alley, combine grasses and perennials with the château in the background.
- The interior of the château: passionate about contemporary art, the owners have decided to create a dialogue between the Renaissance and the 21st century around a new theme every year. It's quirky, sometimes disturbing, but really stimulating!
- Harmony: we found the whole thing truly enchanting, well-dimensioned, sophisticated yet respectful of the historic and natural setting. All the more so as we slept and ate there, for total immersion... We'll tell you all about it right afterwards.
- Learn more in our article.
Tour duration: 2h30 to 3h
The castle is open from the beginning of April to mid-November.
Where to sleep near Château du Rivau
- Hotel du Château du Rivau:
An incredible experience to sleep in one of the 4 rooms created in the castle's former royal stables facing the castle. The decor blends Renaissance spirit with a contemporary ambience - a very successful wedding! Let's take a look back at this enchanting night /. See prices, photos and availability - Hôtel L'Écrin de Verdure:
Just 10 minutes from the château, in the small village of Ligré, a friendly bed and breakfast with a contemporary decor. See prices, photos and availability - Hôtel de l'abbaye de Fontevraud:
If you'd like to get to the next day's stage (30-minute drive), we can only advise you to stay at the hotel located in the former dispensary of the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud. For one night, you can feel the atmosphere of this place of prayer and discover the abbey at nightfall, when visitors have retired. We had a magical time... See prices, photos and availability.
Where to eat near Château du Rivau
- The fairy tale: Château du Rivau
The château offers 2 tables, the"table des fées" for light fare using vegetables from the château's kitchen garden, and the marvelous"secret garden", a creative gastronomic table in an incredible setting under a glass roof facing the dwelling and with its back to the gardens. Magical! See site and book. - The bucolic: Logis Auberge de Crissay
Just 20 minutes from the château, we fell under the spell of the village of Crissay-sur-Manse and enjoyed a pleasant lunch on the terrace overlooking the countryside. A soothing moment surrounded by nature and beautiful stones, with simple but quality cuisine. See website and book. - Gastronomic: Fontevraud Abbey restaurant
In addition to the abbey and hotel, you can also enjoy an exceptional experience at the Abbaye de Fontevraud restaurant. In an exceptional setting, you'll discover a no less exceptional gastronomy led by Michelin-starred chef Thibaut Ruggeri. See website and book.
Day 3 - Fontevraud - Brissac
To continue your discovery of the riches of the Loire, we suggest a little twist on the castle with a visit to the magnificent Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, before finishing with the highest castle in Europe!
Morning - Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud
Founded in 1101, this abbey went down in history as the necropolis of the Plantagenet royal family, who ruled Jerusalem, England and western France from Anjou. This historic landmark was also an important place of worship, before becoming a prison and finally being fully restored in 1975.
Main points of interest:
- The chapter house, with its beautifully restored murals, vaulted ceilings and richly sculpted entrance. It was in this room that the major decisions concerning the life of the abbey were taken.
- The recumbent figures of Fontevraud Abbey: in the abbey church you'll find 4 prestigious recumbent figures from the Plantagenet dynasty: Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II Plantagenet, Richard the Lionheart and Isabella of Angouleme.
- The Musée d'Art Moderne de Fontevraud: a lively cultural venue, the abbey is also home to a rich museum that has benefited from the exceptional bequest of 800 works by Martine and Léon Cligman. A dialogue between eras, continents and religions.
- Learn more in our article.
Visit time: 3 to 4 hours
Open all year round, except Tuesdays in low season.
Afternoon - Château de Brissac
A 50-minute drive brings you to one of Europe's tallest castles, Brissac, at 48 meters. We've fallen in love with this family-run château, occupied by the same family since 1502 and dubbed"The Giant of the Loire"!
Main points of interest:
- Its main façade , known as the Levant, has never been fully restored, giving the château a Baroque feel despite its monumentality.
- The château's immense 70-hectare English park: we find it particularly relaxing, poetic and inspiring, with the Montayer stream running through it. Magic!
- The astonishing 200-seat Belle Époque theater is the brainchild of Jeanne Say, heiress to the Beghin-Say sugar business, singer in her spare time and patron of the artistic Paris of the late 19th century.
- Read more in our article
Tour duration - 1h30 to 2h30.
Where to stay in Angers
- Castle life: Château des Forges
If you want to stay in the château atmosphere right to the end, you can opt for this typical 19th-century manor house, which promotes slow tourism and immerses you in nature with its magnificent view over the lower Anjou valleys. See prices, photos and availability. See prices, photos and availability. - Historical charm: Hôtel L'Oisellerie
6 magnificent rooms in this authentic 16th-century timber-framed house with exposed beams, listed as a historic monument. Located in the heart of the city, this guesthouse is the fruit of a beautiful encounter between 2 talented young people, Marlène and Johanna! See prices, photos and availability. - The classic: Hôtel d'Anjou
A hotel with an exceptional setting, open since 1857, ideally located near the Jardin du Mail yet in the city center. See prices, photos and availability.
Where to see our selection of the best hotels in Angers.
Where to eat in Angers
- Gastronomic: Restaurant Lait Thym Sel
This fine restaurant, which should be booked well in advance, offers, under the guidance of the talented Gaëtan Morvan, an ultra-creative gastronomic experience that does not forget local produce. Formerly in the historic Doutre district, they will soon reveal their new address. See the website and make a reservation. - Out of time: Restaurant Odorico
In a magnificent dining room designed by the famous mosaic artist Isidore Odorico, you'll enjoy quality cuisine that boldly revisits the great classics of Anjou cuisine. See website and book. - Le branché: Restaurnt Le Bistrot des Ducs
Situated on Angers' main square (Ralliement), this upscale bistro offers a new twist on local cuisine. The perfect place to relax after a long trip. See the Facebook page.
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.
Circuit C: with the family
You've decided to introduce your children to the chateaux of the Loire Valley - a wonderful and generous idea, but one that can prove difficult! Unless they're history buffs, you might find it hard to get them excited about neo-Gothic architecture or Empire furniture for 3 days in a row... Based on our experiences with Eugénie, we've come up with a tour that should interest them!
Day 1 - From the fortress to Sleeping Beauty
For this first day, we're inviting you to awaken their imaginations with a fortress and castle with a rich past.
Morning - The fortress of Chinon
Overlooking the surprising town of Chinon, the fortress was built on a rocky spur at a strategic crossroads between the Anjou, Tourraine and Poitou counties. The most famous of the Plantagenet kings, Henry II, died here in 1189.
The main points of interest with children:
- Its 300 metres of fortifications include no less than 3 castles (Fort Saint Georges, Château du Milieu, Fort du Coudray)! Comprising no fewer than 7 towers, there's plenty of energy to go around. You can take a Histopad to discover the three centuries of this fortress's particularly rich history.
- The royal dwellings: built in the 14th and 15th centuries for Marie d'Anjou and Charles VII, they were restored in 2010 and offer a faithful recreation of 2 worlds, that of Eleanor of Aquitaine (12th century) and that of Charles VII (15th century). A highly educational introduction to the daily life of these castles and their furnishings.
- Medieval activities: during the school vacations, the Fortress is brought back to life in the Middle Ages, with siege machine firing, craft workshops (leather, iron and woodworking)...
Tour duration: 2h30 to 3h30
Afternoon - Château d'Ussé
After the medieval, we move on to the fairytale, with the castle that inspired Charles Perrault to write"Sleeping Beauty".
Main points of interest with children:
- The castle's architecture is an opportunity to introduce them to the major construction periods: one part of the castle is Gothic in inspiration, the other Renaissance. The set is relatively modest in size, making it easy to walk around.
- Wax dolls: at the top of the dungeon, the fairytale "Sleeping Beauty" has been recreated in wax dolls, to plunge you back into the world of the 7 fairy godmothers and the famous Prince Charming!
- Although modest in size, the gardens are a fine introduction to the art of French garden design, especially as they were created by the famous gardener of Versailles, Le Nôtre.
- Read our article on the Château d'Ussé.
Open mid-February to mid-November
Allow 2 to 3 hours
Day 2 - In the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci at Amboise
On this second day, we'll be exploring the town of Amboise through the life of Italian genius Leonardo da Vinci, who lived there from 1516 until his death in 1519.
Morning - Le Clos Lucé
The last home of Lénoard de Vinci, it has recently been completely renovated and, above all, completed with a real"mini-amusement park" to discover the creations of the Italian master. Enrich your children's curiosity and nurture their creativity.
The main points of interest with children:
- The château's grounds, where Leonardo da Vinci's avant-garde inventions, from the tank to the aerial screw and the double-span bridge, are displayed in full-scale, working condition.
- The reconstitution of the Italian master's studio, in the manor house of Lucé: a plunge into the daily life of the great man.
- The Leonardo da Vinci Gallery, offering an immersive digital journey through his artistic work. Fun and beautiful!
- Read more in our article
Estimated visit duration: 3 to 4 hours
Open all year round.
Afternoon - The Royal Château of Amboise
To round off this wonderful day, head for the royal Château d'Amboise overlooking the town. It was the birthplace and deathplace of Charles VIII, King of France. François I spent a large part of his childhood here, and Leonardo da Vinci was laid to rest here.
The main points of interest with children:
- The Saint Hubert chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci's remains are believed to be buried (we investigated Leonardo da Vinci's death in this article). The chapel is currently being restored, so don't hesitate to pick up a Histopad to enhance your visit.
- The descent through the interior of the Minimes and Heurtault towers was designed to allow riders and supplies to reach the château without setting foot on the ground. Impressive and unique in the Loire!
- The château's English gardens, a pleasant stroll through a garden dedicated to species from faraway lands, with a breathtaking view over the Loire and the town of Amboise. And if they're quiet, they may be lucky enough to spot some of the 90 species of birds that inhabit it.
- Learn more in our article.
Estimated visit duration: 1h30 to 2h
Open all year round.
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Day 3 - 41 castles and the most beautiful to finish...
For this last day, we're offering you a real final bouquet, with a little tip and a must-have!
Morning - The mini-cake park
Located just a few minutes from Amboise, the Parc des Mini-châteaux features no fewer than 41 model castles and their gardens in a 2-hectare park planted with trees. This will give them an overview of the riches and diversity of the Loire castles in the shortest possible time!
The main points of interest with children:
- The 1:25 scale models are impressively detailed and realistic. The most complex, the one at Chambord, required more than 2,000 hours of work!
- Attractions: along the way, the park offers a number of attractions to delight young and old alike. There's even a mini-mechanical horse that crosses the park (Eugenie couldn't resist, despite being 12 years old...)!
- Miniature gardens: over 2,500 trees are pruned into bonsai shapes to accompany the models. You'll recognize both beech and coniferous trees. The upkeep of these miniature gardens is surely titanic!
Estimated visit duration: 1h30 to 2h
Afternoon: Chenonceau
To round off your stay in style, we suggest you visit Chenonceau, which, in our eyes, is the most beautiful of the Loire castles. Often referred to as the"Château des dames", it owes its layout to the great female figures of French history: Diane de Poitiers (favorite of Henri II), Cathérine de Médicis and Louise de Lorraine.
The main points of interest with children:
- Architecture: set high above the Cher River, the Château de Chenonceau is a model of harmony and technique. You can opt for a boat tour to admire it from the water and add a touch of fun.
- The gallery: This 60-meter-long ballroom is pierced by 18 bays, providing magnificent light and views over the Cher and Château gardens.
- The park also boasts a number of features that are sure to interest them, from the Italian plant maze to the 16th-century farmhouse and carriage gallery.
- Learn more in our article.
Even if it's more "demanding" than the other places we suggest on this tour, in our view it's the best way to discover the excessiveness of some of the Loire châteaux. An opportunity to make fond memories and prepare for future visits!
Tour duration: 2h30 to 4h.
Open all year round
DON'T MISS THE BEST CASTLES IN the Loire Valley
- The most beautiful castles of the Loire Valley
- The most beautiful gardens
- Where to stay in the Loire castles: unforgettable hotels!
- The best Loire castles to visit with your family
- Chambord or Chenonceau: our comparison
- itineraries: weekend - 3 days - 4 days - 5 days - 1 week
- Castles around Blois, around Amboise, around Saumur, around Tours, around Angers and around Nantes.
- or our list of over 100 Loire castles
Route D: no car, so by train
Strangely enough, the châteaux of the Loire were not built to follow the rail networks, but rather to follow the river and, for the oldest, to hold strategic positions on the borders of different kingdoms or counties. Even if this limits the choice, we've put together a 3-day tour of the châteaux of the Loire Valley by train.
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
Day 1- Angers - Saumur
On this first day, you'll travel through Anjou, land of the Plantagenets and Dukes of Anjou, up the Loire from Angers to Saumur.
Morning: Château d'Angers
Maybe not the most beautiful, but one of the most impressive strongholds on the Loire, whose first constructions date back to the Neolithic period. Perhaps because of its defensive capabilities, it holds one of the world's most precious tapestries, listed by UNESCO.
Main points of interest:
- The overall architecture, with its 17 defensive towers and thick schist ramparts, gives it such a massive, protective appearance.
- The tapestry of the Apocalypse of Saint John, woven in the 14th century, is 120 meters long and offers both a religious and political reading at the height of the Hundred Years' War. We're impressed every time we visit this unique piece.
- The Galerie René d'Anjou features an unusually large glass surface for the period in which it was built (1435-1453). It was commissioned by the "good René d'Anjou", the last of the Dukes of Anjou, who, in the eyes of 19th-century romantics, embodied a fantasy of the Middle Ages, and was the object of a cult in the town of Angers.
- Read more in our article
Visit time: 2h to 2h30
And see our article on the best attractions in Angers (coming soon).
Afternoon: Château de Saumur
In just a few minutes, you can reach Angers station and catch one of the 13 trains that link the 2 cities daily. The journey takes less than 30 minutes.
When you arrive at Saumur station, you're almost opposite the château, on the other side of the river, giving youa magnificent view of this majestic château. After a short 20-minute walk (public transport is available), you're on the drawbridge leading to Saumur castle.
Main points of interest:
- The belvedere: accessible by guided tour only, the belvedere offers a magnificent 360-degree view, with a 30 km radius. It's a good way to get some height, and discover that the double-revolution staircase wasn't invented by Leonardo da Vinci...
- The Musée des Arts Décoratifs: the château houses 2 museums, one dedicated to the horse and a larger one dedicated to the decorative arts, featuring a collection of 1,500 ceramics, as well as some very fine tapestries.
- The château's vineyards: in front of the château, 1,400 vines produce wines that have long been served at the town's official events. A nod to the importance of winegrowing in Saumur.
- Read our full article on the Château de Saumur
See our article on Saumur's top attractions.
Where to stay in Saumur
- Intimate: Hôtel Saint Pierre
Nestled in the old town, on a quiet street, this small hotel offers a human-scale experience with very appreciable comfort. Having Scottish blood, we couldn't help but appreciate the hotel's incredible whisky bar, which collects references from every continent. See prices, photos and availability. - The traditional: Hôtel Anne d'Anjou
Facing the Loire, this hotel is a listed building. Anxious to preserve this rich past, the owners have designed the decor to be consistent with it, giving it an old-fashioned charm that's completely in tune with the atmosphere of the town. See prices, photos and availability. - The unusual: Hotel Demeure de la Vignole
Just 15 minutes from Saumur, enjoy an original experience at this hotel where some of the rooms have been dug out of the rock, and where you can swim in the heart of the tuffeau, the white stone of the Loire. See prices, photos and availability.
Or read our selection of the best hotels in Saumur.
Where to eat in Saumur
- Our favorite: Restaurant L'Essentiel
Located in the courtyard of the Hôtel Anne d'Anjou, this restaurant offers creative, high-quality cuisine at affordable prices. All the more so as the setting is pleasant, the wine list impressive and some tables overlook the château. We enjoyed ourselves and had a wonderful evening. See website and book. - The safe bet: Restaurant L'Escargot
A family atmosphere in this restaurant offering the best of French cuisine, including their signature dish, escargots (we had the 3-butter variation). View menu - L'exotique: Restaurant Le Masama
In the center of Saumur, a couple of Colombian restaurateurs trained in France have opened this friendly little restaurant, offering a fusion of Latin and French influences. Delicious and friendly! See website and book.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make your stay in the Loire Valley a success, will soon be gathered in a single ebook!
If you wish to be informed of the publication of our guide on the Loire, register:
Day 2 - Amboise
It will take you around 1h30 to reach your next stopover, Amboise. We advise you to take the morning TER, which is direct, but you can also opt for the TGV with a connection at Tours (Saint Pierre des Corps).
As in Saumur, you arrive on the opposite bank to the town's 3 châteaux: Château Royal d'Amboise, Clos Lucé and Chateau Gaillard, each with its own fascinating history. Château Gaillard is much more modest, but can be a great alternative if you're feeling tired and want to lighten up your program a bit.
Morning - The Royal Château of Amboise
A 20-minute walk from the train station brings you to the foot of this proud château, 40 meters above the Loire. King Charles VIII of France was born and died here, and François I spent much of his childhood here.
Main points of interest:
- An exceptional view of the Loire and its tributaries from the top of the Tour des Minimes.
- Saint Hubert's chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci's remains are believed to be buried (we investigated Leonardo da Vinci's death in this article).
- The descent through the interior of the Minimes and Heurtault towers, which were designed to allow riders and supplies to reach the château without setting foot on the ground. Impressive and unique in the Loire!
- Learn more in our article.
Estimated visit duration: 1h30 to 2h
Open all year round.
Afternoon - Le clos Lucé
The last home of Lénoard de Vinci, it has recently been completely renovated and, above all, completed with a real "mini-amusement park" to discover the creations of the Italian master.
Main points of interest:
- The château's grounds , where you can see Leonardo da Vinci's avant-garde inventions at full size and in operation.
- The manor's chapel, where you can imagine the Italian master meditating.
- The Leonardo da Vinci Gallery, offering an immersive digital journey through his artistic work.
- Read more in our article
Estimated visit duration: 3 to 4 hours
Open all year round.
Where to stay in Amboise - the best hotels
- Our favorite: the Château de Perreux.
A 10-minute drive from Amboise, sleep in an authentic château built in 1701 with a troglodytic lobby (built right into the rock). We loved this cocooning experience!
Our complete article on our night / see See prices, photos and availability - Traditional: Hôtel le Choiseul
Ideally located just a stone's throw from the town center, but far enough away to offer a view of the château, Hôtel le Choiseul immerses you in the bourgeois ambience of early 20th-century hotels.
Our full review of our night at the Choiseul hotel (coming soon) / See prices, photos and availability. - The heart of the city: Hôtel Le Charme Rabelaisien
Set in an 18th-century house in the heart of Amboise's historic district, this hotel offers spacious rooms decorated in a blend of 4-star standards and traditional family homes. See prices, photos and availability
Or read our selection of the best hotels in Amboise.
Where to eat in Amboise - the best restaurants
- Our favorite: La Brêche
A magnificent culinary voyage led by chef Jérôme Bertgelot and his daughter Justine, who takes care of the pastry-making. The cuisine is daring and creative, and the presentation of the dishes overwhelmed us. In short, we loved it! See the site - For a great meal on the go: Le maître d'Art
Ideal for a break before or after Le Clos Lucé, this small restaurant just opposite the entrance to Le Clos Lucé offers fresh, simple cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. And the desserts are really tasty... See the menu - Gastronomic: Les Arpents
Ideally located in the historic center of Amboise, the restaurant offers quality cuisine, perfectly mastered in an unpretentious atmosphere. See the site
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.
Day 3 - Chenonceau - Tours
It will take you around 50 minutes to reach the highlight of your stay, the splendid Château de Chenonceau, our favorite in the Loire Valley. The journey is made by TER with a connection at Saint-Pierre des Corps.
The charming little station is almost opposite the entrance to the castle, so what more could you ask for!
Morning and early afternoon: Chenonceau
The famous"Château de la Loire sur la rivière", which elegantly spans the Cher River, is also regularly referred to as the"Château des dames", as it owes its layout to the great female figures of French history: Diane de Poitiers (favorite of Henri II), Cathérine de Médicis and Louise de Lorraine.
Main points of interest:
- The gallery: 60 meters long, this ballroom seems to float above the river Cher. Take the time to admire the view from the 18 bays that give it its incomparable light. Magic!
- The Diane de Poitiers garden: in addition to the interest of this Italian-style garden, it offers one of the finest views, in our opinion, of the château and the 5 arches spanning the river.
- The Queen's apothecary: unique in the Loire castles, we owe it to Catherine de Médicis, who never travelled without her physicians and perfumers. The wooden ensemble is beautiful and even enchanting.
- Learn more in our article.
But to keep the article short, we've limited ourselves to just 3 outstanding features. The château's architecture, furnishings and works of art, not to mention its gardens, are truly exceptional! And you'll have plenty to occupy your day before catching the train back to Tours.
Tour duration: 2h30 to 4h.
Open all year round
Late afternoon: Tours Cathedral
Just half an hour by train and you're in the center of Tours.
There's no castle here - it's been almost entirely destroyed - but you can discover one of the finest collections of stained glass in the Cathedral of Saint Gatien, just 10 minutes from the station.
Main points of interest:
- Its impressive main facade, so finely crafted that it owes its reconstruction to the Renaissance. The project will last two centuries!
- Its stained glass collection, which takes you from the 13th to the 21st century. Exceptional lighting and a veritable conservatory of this religious art in Tourraine.
- The Psalette cloister, adjoining the Cathedral (north façade), also dates from the Renaissance period. This is the only remaining example of the 5 Loire cathedrals.
Where to sleep in Tours - best hotels
- The ultimate in luxury: a little extravagance to round off your trip? Choose the Hotel Les Trésorières.
A 5-star hotel just a stone's throw from Les Halles de Tours and the historic city center. We loved the 1001 details that make this an exceptional place. See prices, photos and availability. - The charm of the old, the comfort of the new: Hôtel L'Océania in Tours
As in Nantes, the small Breton hotel chain has restored the lustre of this beautiful hotel, opened in 1846, close to the station. We particularly enjoyed relaxing in the small spa after those long days of sightseeing. See prices, photos and availability. - One last château, with a night at Château Belmont.
Set in 2.5 hectares of beautiful parkland just a few minutes from Tours city center, Château Belmont is the perfect way to round off your stay. A real little bubble, with a quality table and a pleasant spa. See prices, photos and availability.
Where to eat in Tours - Best restaurants
- The creative: Restaurant Le Casse-cailloux
Set in a small street, this smartly decorated restaurant offers ultra-creative cuisine that blends flavors and influences. From the lamb's lettuce soup, truffle cream and scrambled egg to the matcha bergamot sablé with blood orange cream, we didn't bother. See website and book. - The creperie revisited: Restaurant Espace Hades Tours
After visiting Tours Cathedral, we were looking for a simple, healthy lunch, and were drawn to this crêperie that promises to revisit galettes. Clearly, the challenge is met with talent and good humor, and the secret is in the flour... See the Facebook page. - Elsewhere: Restaurant Makeda
For once, we let ourselves be tempted by a bit of elsewhere with this Ethiopian restaurant. This is a real culinary journey, with spices (in moderation) and 4-5 dishes to discover the diversity of this cuisine. And the icing on the cake is the coffee, an Ethiopian mocha of course, pot-roasted that very afternoon by the owner. A treat, and God knows we're picky when it comes to coffee! See the website.
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
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