{"id":8179,"date":"2024-05-25T20:43:09","date_gmt":"2024-05-25T18:43:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/visiter-2-jours-chateaux-loire-itineraire-weekend\/"},"modified":"2026-04-16T17:15:00","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T15:15:00","slug":"visit-2-days-chateaux-castles-loire-itineraries-weekend","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-2-days-chateaux-castles-loire-itineraries-weekend\/","title":{"rendered":"Visit the Loire Castle in 2 days: our itineraries"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Are you a history or architecture buff with just <strong>2 days<\/strong> to spare in the Loire Valley? Not to worry. We've designed optimized itineraries to discover <strong>the most beautiful ch\u00e2teaux<\/strong> and make the most of your getaway. Sublime gardens, refinement, art, ancient or Italian influences, get ready for <strong>a journey through the ages<\/strong>! In 2 days, we had time to be charmed by the story each castle tells, and by breathtaking panoramas.<\/p>\n\n<p>In this article, you'll find <strong>advice<\/strong> on how to best plan your stay and our <strong>favorite tours<\/strong>. With plenty of <strong>photos<\/strong> to help you make your own choice.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/visit-castles-chateaux-loire-itinerary-2-days-weekend-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Our detailed 2-day Loire Valley Ch&#xE2;teaux tours (must-do itineraries, gardens, by train, with the family...).\" class=\"wp-image-8173\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<p>This guide is completely <strong>independent<\/strong>, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips for a 2-day visit to the Loire Castles<\/h2>\n\n<p>Despite the short duration of your getaway, don't worry. You'll still be able to get a glimpse of the jewels of the Loire, a region world-famous for its ch\u00e2teaux, its terroir and its age-old wine culture! Our advice will help you make the most of your stay and your time on site.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Map of the most beautiful Ch\u00e2teaux in the Loire Valley<\/h3>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Map-best-castle-loire-valley-chateaux-1.jpg\" alt=\"map of the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley\" class=\"wp-image-3123\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Map of the most beautiful Loire castles<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to go?<\/h3>\n\n<p>The best times to visit the Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire? Spring and autumn. The crowds are smaller than in summer. We loved the gardens in full bloom, the long days and the festivities at some of the castles. Fall can be so beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves! There are fewer crowds to appreciate the beauty and history of these iconic monuments.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Tours\/Chateau-de-Villandry\/i-QMzzSFv\/0\/cLXQRDqCCGf5jjzZ7JQqGCHtppwjgsVvkXHqCLcb\/L\/chateau-villandry-jardinier-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau de Villandry and its French gardens\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry and its French gardens<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<p>In winter, only a few ch\u00e2teaux close their doors, but the larger ones remain open, as do most villages, towns and museums. <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-tours-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tours<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-angers-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Angers<\/a>, Amboise, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-saumur-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saumur<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-nantes-winter-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nantes<\/a>, Blois and Orl\u00e9ans are also great places to visit in winter. You can choose to discover certain Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire at the end of the year. Experience the magic of chateau life and the enchantment of Christmas at the Ch\u00e2teaux de Chambord and Chenonceau. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.viator.com\/tours\/Tours\/Small-Group-Tour-to-Chambord-and-Chenonceau-Chateaux-with-Lunch-at-a-Family-Chateau-from-Tours\/d5092-5617P33?pid=P00074304&amp;mcid=42383&amp;medium=link&amp;medium_version=selector&amp;campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">\n  <strong>See the program and book here<\/strong>\n<\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viator.com\/tours\/Tours\/Small-Group-Tour-to-Chambord-and-Chenonceau-Chateaux-with-Lunch-at-a-Family-Chateau-from-Tours\/d5092-5617P33?pid=P00074304&amp;mcid=42383&amp;medium=link&amp;medium_version=selector&amp;campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">i<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Blois\/n-DXvSZK\/H%C3%B4tel-Relais-Chambord\/i-DHzz8V6\/0\/mB5XcxFG3CBC7gVfz6mbwc8sHSdLvhCZXkbcbmtt\/L\/hotel-relais-chambord-6-L.jpg\" alt=\"View of Ch&#xE2;teau de Chambord at sunset\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chambord Castle<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get there? Need a car?<\/h3>\n\n<p>To reach the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/route-road-trip-castles-loire-itinerary-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Route des Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire<\/a>, a number of options are available:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>By train:<\/strong> several towns in the region are linked by train lines.<a href=\"https:\/\/track.effiliation.com\/servlet\/effi.redir?id_compteur=22819431&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sncf-connect.com%2Fen-en%2F&amp;effi_id=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"> <strong>Don't forget to book your tickets in advance, and find all the train stations in the Loire!<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>By car:<\/strong> in our opinion, the most practical way to be free to move around and explore as many nooks and crannies as possible. If you don't have your own vehicle, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/how-to-rent-car-france-hire\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rent a car<\/a> in <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-tours-france\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tours<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-angers-station\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Angers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-nantes-airport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nantes<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-orly-airport-paris\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paris-Orly<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-cdg-aeroport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paris-CDG<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Organized tours:<\/strong> to make life easier during your trip, and if you don't want to drive, choose organized excursions on the Loire Ch\u00e2teaux Route from Paris, Tours or Amboise, for example. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.viator.com\/tours\/Paris\/LOIRE-VALLEY-RENAISSANCE-TOUR\/d479-101669P2?pid=P00074304&amp;mcid=42383&amp;medium=link&amp;medium_version=selector&amp;campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">\n  <strong>see the 2-day tour<\/strong>\n<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div style=\"margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns inverse box_planif is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:58%\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\">OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Loire<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\" style=\"font-size:14px\">\n<li>Compare prices on our preferred platform: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/france?a_aid=zigzag&amp;chan=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DiscoverCars<\/a> - one of the best rated sites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose a <strong>fairly compact car<\/strong> (many villages have narrowed the road).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Think about<strong>full insurance<\/strong> (parking in big cities is really tight).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There is a lot of demand, <strong>book it early<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column planif-radius-3 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:42%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"280\" height=\"354\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/conduire_ville_loire.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4051\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/conduire_ville_loire.png 280w, https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/conduire_ville_loire-237x300.png 237w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns planif_bouton is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:57.14%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/france?a_aid=zigzag&amp;amp;chan=LL\" style=\"border-radius:4px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">See the cars  <strong>    <\/strong><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4676\" style=\"width: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/ArrowRight.webp\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:42.86%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/how-to-rent-car-france-hire\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>See our tips<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting between castles: by car or by bike<\/h3>\n\n<p>Unfortunately, you won't have a choice. To visit the Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire freely, you'll need a car or good legs to take advantage of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/loire-valley-cycling-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Loire bike<\/a> trails. There are also a number of buses, mainly departing from Tours.<\/p>\n\n<p>We've also put together a train tour (without a car), but the choice is inevitably more limited, as most of the castles were built 3 centuries before the development of the railroads!<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Loire-a-velo\/i-4RQtnf4\/0\/62a1dba8\/L\/Loire_Velo_pauses-L.jpg\" alt=\"Photo of a bicycle on the banks of the Loire, with gabares in the background\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other tips to keep in mind<\/h3>\n\n<p>To help you organize your getaway, we recommend that you:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Plan well in advance<\/strong>, as the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-castles-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire<\/a> are a popular destination. The surrounding area (hotels, restaurants, wine <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-cellars-wine-loire-tasting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cellars<\/a>, museums) can be overcrowded, especially during peak summer periods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Opt for a<\/strong> <strong>special ticket<\/strong>: we'll provide you with links whenever possible. Adopt these solutions and save precious time!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Finding the right rhythm without over-densifying the program<\/strong>. In addition to the rich architecture and furnishings of the ch\u00e2teaux, you'll have a long way to go if you also explore the gardens. These buildings, especially the larger ones, take time. A word of advice: don't plan to see everything to avoid frustration. Ideal: 1 castle a day, 2 if they're small. The Loire also offers villages and towns with a rich heritage to explore. You'll have plenty to keep you busy!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Azay-le-Rideau\/i-tBQfPnP\/1\/CgDCrZm4H5Rwfd58Bf2SPM8CMTNKDrBVvWkmrCtxc\/L\/chateau-azay-le-rideau-miroir-eau-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau d'Azay-Le-Rideau\" style=\"width:702px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ch\u00e2teau d'Azay-Le-Rideau<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<div style=\"background-color:#fefefe;margin-top:6%;margin-bottom:6%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns inverse is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:58%\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\">A LITTLE MORE <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">patience<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:14px\">All the photos, maps, information, good addresses to make <strong>your stay in the Loire Valley<\/strong> a success, will <strong>soon be gathered<\/strong> in a single ebook!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:14px\">If you wish to be informed of the publication of our <strong>guide on the Loire<\/strong>, register:<\/p>\n\n\n<script>\nvar gform;gform||(document.addEventListener(\"gform_main_scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.scriptsLoaded=!0}),document.addEventListener(\"gform\/theme\/scripts_loaded\",function(){gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0}),window.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){gform.domLoaded=!0}),gform={domLoaded:!1,scriptsLoaded:!1,themeScriptsLoaded:!1,isFormEditor:()=>\"function\"==typeof 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);} );\n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:42%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container ebook-radius-waitlist gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\"><div class=\"wp-block-image ebook-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/e86ee8f5-ae95-4455-8e9f-bed61c85f6b5-640x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9500\" style=\"width:200px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/e86ee8f5-ae95-4455-8e9f-bed61c85f6b5-640x1024.png 640w, https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/e86ee8f5-ae95-4455-8e9f-bed61c85f6b5-188x300.png 188w, https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/e86ee8f5-ae95-4455-8e9f-bed61c85f6b5-768x1229.png 768w, https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/e86ee8f5-ae95-4455-8e9f-bed61c85f6b5.png 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in the Loire Valley for a weekend: in a ch\u00e2teau or in town?<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sleeping in a castle in the Loire Valley<\/h3>\n\n<p>Do you dream of living the life of a ch\u00e2teau for one night in the Loire Valley? Immerse yourself in unique historic buildings steeped in history for a timeless interlude! We've tried out some unusual places to <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/stay-chateau-hotel-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sleep in a ch\u00e2teau in the Loire Valley<\/a>, and we have some excellent memories!<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Liste-chateaux-Loire\/i-2p5NdD6\/1\/b54524a0\/L\/chateau%20chissay-L.jpg\" alt=\"Chateau de Chissay\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chateau de Chissay<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best places to stay in Loire<\/h3>\n\n<p>In our opinion, the best locations near many castles are..:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Amboise<\/strong>, a charming little town near Chenonceau<br\/>see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1407398&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">top-rated<\/a> available accommodations<br\/>or see our selection of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-amboise-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Saumur<\/strong>, a charming little town with troglodyte attractions<br\/>see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1469710&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">top-rated<\/a> available accommodations<br\/>or see our selection of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-saumur-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best hotels<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>But you'll also love <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-tours-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tours<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-angers-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Angers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-blois-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Blois<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-hotel-nantes-where-stay-reviews\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nantes<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Saumur\/i-m8mcFxc\/1\/jbxp9RpmrkbwTVnsz5xxRgPNrq5Hrd2LfNsSzTst\/L\/chateau-saumur-belve%CC%81de%CC%80re-L.jpg\" alt=\"View from the Ch&#xE2;teau de Saumur belvedere\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">View from the Ch\u00e2teau de Saumur belvedere<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<p>If you want to get even closer to some of the castles, find out more:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1419845&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best rated accommodations<\/a> near Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1417981&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best rated accommodations<\/a> near Ch\u00e2teau de Chambord<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1409765&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best rated accommodations<\/a> near Ch\u00e2teau d'Azay-le-Rideau<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1420214&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">best rated accommodations<\/a> near Forteresse Royale de Chinon<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?city=-1453332&amp;nflt=review_score%253D90%253Breview_score%253D80&amp;aid=2274925&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best rated accommodations<\/a> near Ch\u00e2teau de Montr\u00e9sor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>More suggestions in our article on the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-loire-valley-best-areas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best towns to stay in<\/a> along the Loire and in our selection below:<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"background-color:#d0e7ff;margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_titre gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\">WHERE TO STAY IN THE <span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Loire Valley<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#d0e7ff\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"font-size:14px;flex-basis:60%\">\n<p style=\"font-size:16px\">Our independent picks for <strong>the accommodation of your dreams<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-loire-valley-best-areas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to stay in the Loire Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/stay-chateau-hotel-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sleeping in a castle in the Loire Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-luxury-hotel-loire-valley-5-star-reviews\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best luxury hotels<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Hotel-Chateau-Chissay\/i-pS6Jsk2\/1\/65123b4b\/L\/chateau-hotel-chissay-11-L.jpg\" alt=\"Chateau de Chissay\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"background-color:#d0e7ff\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"font-size:14px;flex-basis:60%\">\n<p style=\"font-size:16px\">Or, if you've chosen your destination, the <strong>best hotels<\/strong> in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-hotel-nantes-where-stay-reviews\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nantes<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-angers-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Angers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-saumur-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saumur<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-tours-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tours<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-amboise-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amboise<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:16px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-blois-best-hotels-neighborhoods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Blois<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Blois\/n-DXvSZK\/Hotel-Fleurs-de-Loire\/i-kctWvT8\/1\/CDqwKRVtHR5vB9NfPN2Cmj5VkjWxW5CR3bbLbvtNT\/L\/blois-fleurs-loire-L.jpg\" alt=\"Fleur de Loire Hotel in Blois\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our ideal itinerary: castles not to be missed<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Morning: visit to the Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau, the most beautiful in the Loire Valley<\/h3>\n\n<p>In this itinerary, we've put together a tour focused on the region's iconic buildings! Start your day exploring the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-chenonceau-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau<\/a>, towering above the Cher river. Its medieval origins, but above all its Renaissance architecture, have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. We were fascinated by its rich collection of paintings and rare 16th-century Flanders tapestries. You'll see there's more! The estate, visited by almost 900,000 people every year, boasts sublime gardens, a wine cellar and many other places to discover.  <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/les-chateaux-de-la-loire-l7956\/chateau-de-chenonceau-billet-d-entree-t176736\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Book your ticket now!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-de-Chenonceau\/i-2wLDrzS\/1\/FSSLjrfXJdnttMQ4dxfZ7MWvmp9W8mtrbspGL4DGv\/L\/ChateauChenonceau-vuesurgaleriedoublecher-L.jpg\" alt=\"Chenonceau Castle\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Lunch: gourmet or Michelin-star lunch in Amboise<\/h3>\n\n<p>After a visit to the imposing Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau, it's a 20-minute drive to Amboise. To delight your taste buds with gastronomic delights, this charming Loire town boasts a fine range of restaurants. We have tested a few for you:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Restaurant Les Arpents:<\/strong> refined local cuisine, awarded the Bib Gourmand with a fine selection of wines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restaurant La Breche:<\/strong> for a top-flight gourmet meal served in a warm, bourgeois setting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Amboise\/n-f2x5VR\/Restaurant-Les-Arpents\/i-GZdHzJp\/1\/FWZKB32GLmVpxdQGJjzXwJnrdwsbbzCKQj3cRpnRZ\/L\/restaurant-arpents-amboise-L.jpg\" alt=\"Restaurant Les Arpents in Amboise\" style=\"width:702px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Restaurant Les Arpents in Amboise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Afternoon: Option 1 - Ch\u00e2teau du Clos Luc\u00e9<\/h3>\n\n<p>After your meal in Amboise, why not take the opportunity to visit this historic city's emblematic ch\u00e2teaux? If you're interested in Leonardo da Vinci, the Italian painter, architect, scientist and engineer born in 1452, the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-clos-luce-amboise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau du Clos Luc\u00e9<\/a> is a must-see. Long the summer residence of the kings of France, the building was also the home of the Renaissance genius for 3 years, before he died in 1519. The ch\u00e2teau, its garden and grounds are a showcase for Leonardo da Vinci's work in architecture and painting.  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/chateau-du-clos-luce-l96466\/chateau-du-clos-luce-maison-de-leonard-de-vinci-t194510\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Don't wait to reserve your ticket!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Amboise\/n-f2x5VR\/Clos-Luce\/i-KbLxKBG\/0\/CntZ2LBMJswtb3kFbVXNb4FtpjtzkWM9Qbv76crDF\/L\/Amboise-ClosLuce-chambre-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau du Clos Luc&#xE9;, Amboise\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Leonardo da Vinci's bedroom at the Ch\u00e2teau du Clos Luc\u00e9<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Afternoon: option 2 - Ch\u00e2teau Royal d'Amboise<\/h3>\n\n<p>Our 2nd option also takes you in the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci, but this time to the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/chateau-royal-amboise-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau Royal d'Amboise<\/a>. The Italian genius was buried here on his death in 1519. After spending the last years of his life at the nearby Ch\u00e2teau du Clos Luc\u00e9, Leonardo da Vinci was buried in the grounds of the Ch\u00e2teau d'Amboise at the request of Fran\u00e7ois<sup>1er<\/sup>, King of France. If the architecture of the place is remarkable, its interiors will take you on a captivating journey through time. The richness of the decoration reveals the craftsmanship of the Renaissance period: sculpted vaulted ceilings, monumental fireplaces and finely carved wooden furniture. Ready to push open the doors of this marvel?<br\/><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/activites-attractions-amboise-c97582\/billets-pour-chateau-royal-d-amboise-coupe-file-p977796?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Don't forget to reserve your ticket to avoid the wait!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Amboise\/n-f2x5VR\/Chateau-Amboise\/i-gM3pM4T\/1\/kWjTFg9WN5r4FFzfqpHttmKtV4cs755VrC6W5ztC\/L\/chateau_amboise_jardin-1-L.jpg\" alt=\"Royal Castle of Amboise\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Evening: the Ch\u00e2teaux of the Loire seen from above<\/h3>\n\n<p>To round off this 1st day full of sensory experiences and beautiful images, why not change perspective and get some height? Take to the skies in a hot-air balloon to admire the Ch\u00e2teaux of the Loire at sunset. You'll see that the colors of the sky will sublimate the beauty of these giants of the Loire Valley!  <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/amboise-l99999\/vol-en-montgolfiere-a-amboise-au-coucher-du-soleil-au-dessus-de-la-vallee-de-la-loire-t602346?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Let yourself be tempted by this magical experience in the air!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Montgolfiere\/i-dL72jQj\/0\/Cs8QVwWBzchcPnQkLNxWmHwK3PsCJ6PZ5FZfHq7rd\/L\/montgolfiere-chateau-brissac-loire-3-L.jpg\" alt=\"hot-air balloon\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Morning: visit to Ch\u00e2teau de Chambord<\/h3>\n\n<p>How can you go to the Loire without visiting the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-chambord-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Chambord<\/a>? A must-have for your schedule! World-famous for its revolutionary architecture (double staircases, decorative fireplaces...), it is also the largest of the Loire Ch\u00e2teaux, built in the largest enclosed forest in France. Imagined by the young king Fran\u00e7ois I as a symbol of power, this 16th-century edifice impressed us with its proportions. Did you know that this immense site was also home to other illustrious figures such as Louis XIV?  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/activites-attractions-chambord-c262960\/billets-pour-chateau-de-chambord-coupe-file-p980056?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Book your ticket now!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Chambord\/i-FCLLmzH\/0\/PK38VQwDFwzZvXtqPG8zfDXp2DPHSFQnrThQtsJD\/L\/chambord-velo-L.jpg\" alt=\"Chambord Castle by bike\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Lunch at Restaurant L'Orangerie in Cheverny<\/h3>\n\n<p>We're now heading for the Domaine de Cheverny, a 25-minute drive from Chambord. If you'd like to enjoy a light lunch before visiting the place that inspired the famous Ch\u00e2teau de Moulinsart in the <em>Tintin<\/em> comic strip, grab a bite to eat at Caf\u00e9 de l'Orangerie. The decor is fun and the break is delicious! The site also offers picnic areas ideally placed along the canal.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Cheverny\/i-NS2VvJ9\/0\/Nd4Ph8BP8bpxpDTz7JrkMmSCBjdRLQcMx4HsR5wJ\/L\/chateau-cheverny-17-L.jpg\" alt=\"Cheverny Orangery\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Afternoon: visit to Ch\u00e2teau de Cheverny<\/h3>\n\n<p>Then immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of Ch\u00e2teau de Cheverny, one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-excursions-road-tours-wine-loire\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">finest Ch\u00e2teaux in the Loire<\/a> Valley. It's also an important stop on <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-excursions-road-tours-wine-loire\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the wine route<\/a>. Just a few kilometers from Blois, the estate offers a history full of surprises. We discovered that this elegant 17th-century edifice is also the fictional ch\u00e2teau of Moulinsart, making the visit a veritable immersion in the famous <em>Tintin<\/em> comic strip. We were charmed by the beautiful park and the 6 superb gardens. Like us, you're sure to be won over by the magnificence of the Cheverny estate!  <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-castle-cheverny\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Read our dedicated article<\/a><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Cheverny\/i-ttk4b84\/1\/DrvTmT2H3xRGCsBH8tHcbhKLcL6D2jqww6dg3bMTW\/L\/chateau-cheverny-chenil-L.jpg\" alt=\"Castle of Cheverny\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternative 1 - Thematic tour: gardens and castles<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Morning: Visit the Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry and its gardens<\/h3>\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-villandry-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry<\/a> is a must-see for all garden enthusiasts! In our opinion, the magic of Villandry is the balance between inside and outside. The architecture of the gardens matches that of the ch\u00e2teau, so that wherever you are, the view is exceptional! It's also worth a detour for its uncluttered appearance, which makes it unique in the region. As the last Renaissance ch\u00e2teau in the Loire Valley, history buffs will be delighted to see how it has evolved over the ages, and to discover the unusual decoration of some of its rooms. As you may have guessed, this marvel is home to one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-gardens-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">finest gardens on the Loire<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-de-Villandry\/i-NfDpzfr\/1\/PdGBpSFBgWXSb8hcnNjnwwrnGMfK728v63GQjjmb\/L\/chateau-villandry-jardins-4-L.jpg\" alt=\"Villandry Castle and Gardens\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Lunch at the Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry restaurant<\/h3>\n\n<p>Time for a gourmet break! Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry has a charming table at the entrance, Restaurant La Doulce Terrasse, which pleasantly surprised us. Enjoy seasonal cuisine based on regional produce. We tried a \"tartine du potager\", generous and tasty, with a gourmet coffee.<\/p>\n\n<p>A picnic area 100m from the ch\u00e2teau entrance (behind the Villandry Tourist Office) is at your disposal. As the ticket is valid all day, you can choose to have lunch outside and then come back.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Tours\/Chateau-de-Villandry\/i-hsjLDGG\/0\/CpNqJ9w92K8cV2v8vMhXKSvXV3tcCpjdG2XqKVmgm\/L\/chateau-villandry-restaurant-L.jpg\" alt=\"A glimpse of a tartine from the kitchen garden at La Doulce terrasse restaurant in the Villandry's castle.\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Afternoon: Ch\u00e2teau d'Azay-Le-Rideau<\/h3>\n\n<p>Just 15 minutes from Villandry, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-azay-le-rideau\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau d'Azay-le-Rideau<\/a> is one of our favorite Loire castles, with its poetic, romantic atmosphere. Modest in size, grandiose in decoration, surrounded by a moat still filled with water and a beautiful English-style park, it's one of the jewels of the region. Did you know that this majestic building has inspired many artists (writer Honor\u00e9 de Blazac, sculptor Auguste Rodin...)? We spontaneously thought of Lamartine's verse when we discovered the ch\u00e2teau. Its English-style park features 2 water mirrors and exotic trees (sequoia, cedar, ginkgo, bald cypress, etc.), planted since 1850.  <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/activites-attractions-azay-le-rideau-c184075\/billets-pour-chateau-dazay-le-rideau-p974838?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Don't forget to reserve your ticket!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Azay-le-Rideau\/i-PsN7wzq\/1\/Cwq5FZ3MN5KmHcmkbnFLmWtptQNjxXxNzmddKfGF4\/L\/chateau-azay-le-rideau-3-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau d'Azay-Le-Rideau\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Morning: Ch\u00e2teau de Chaumont-sur-Loire<\/h3>\n\n<p>Let's continue this romantic and bucolic tour at the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-chaumont-sur-loire-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Chaumont-sur-Loire<\/a> for this 2nd day. This is definitely an area worth exploring. We fell in love! This 15th-century ch\u00e2teau, also known as Ch\u00e2teau de Chaumont, will captivate you with its prestige. You'll travel back in time to meet France's nobility and famous intellectuals. The historic park, but above all the perennial and temporary gardens, transported us into a world of daring and artistic innovation. Don't miss this jewel of the Loire, where you can also <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/le-bois-des-chambres.html?aid=2274925\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">spend the night<\/a> to extend the experience.<br\/><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/activites-attractions-chaumont-sur-loire-c182857\/billets-pour-domaine-de-chaumont-sur-loire-coupe-file-p981470?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Book your ticket<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Ch%C3%A2teau-de-Chaumont-sur-Loire\/i-DmxjHHS\/0\/DpCrLNRDvfdFBW2ZSLhjGV8PbS5VDFNXpKs7ZckPP\/L\/chateauchaumontsurloire-chateau-5-L.jpg\" alt=\"View of the castle\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Noon: lunch in the area<\/h3>\n\n<p>Good places to eat in Chaumont are available in the surrounding area. If you want to continue your day at the estate, there are several food and beverage outlets:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Caf\u00e9 des Savoirs et des Saveurs:<\/strong> gourmet break, hot or cold drinks and sweet or savoury snacks in the middle of books<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restaurant Comptoir des Tilleuls:<\/strong> cuisine that revisits local products through an eco-responsible approach<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restaurant Grand Chaume in the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/le-bois-des-chambres.html?aid=2274925\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">H\u00f4tel Au Bois des Chambres<\/a><\/strong>: original gourmet flavours in an atypical setting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Ch%C3%A2teau-de-Chaumont-sur-Loire\/i-33wTNDh\/0\/CcCMtXq86tJ73sr7mf43pjQRVGw6vrDMmF8QDzWmv\/L\/chateauchaumontsurloire-cafeduparc-L.jpg\" alt=\"Le caf&#xE9; du parc\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Afternoon: Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau and its lush gardens<\/h3>\n\n<p>Round off this themed tour with a stroll through the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-chenonceau-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau <\/a>and its Renaissance gardens. Based on the Italian model, you'll notice a fountain in the center of the Jardin Diane de Poitiers. Back then, these splendid green carpets were a harmonious blend of flowers, vegetables and fruit trees.  <br\/>Today, this 12,000-hectare garden is divided into 2 perpendicular and 2 diagonal paths, forming 8 triangles of lawn decorated with plant scrolls. This composition is the work of 19th-century landscape architect Achille Duch\u00eane. In spring and autumn, you'll see a wide variety of flowers, but it's in summer that a hundred hibiscus on stalks come into bloom. Admire the magnificent view of the castle's east facade from this garden!  <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/les-chateaux-de-la-loire-l7956\/chateau-de-chenonceau-billet-d-entree-t176736\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Book your ticket now!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-de-Chenonceau\/i-vsgmGpm\/0\/e5627e95\/L\/chateauchenonceau-jardindiane-1-L.jpg\" alt=\"View of the garden of diane de poitiers.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Jardin de Diane de Poitiers at the Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternative 2 - Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire with your family<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Morning: fairytale epic at Ch\u00e2teau d'Uss\u00e9<\/h3>\n\n<p>Do you know the castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty? We're talking about the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-usse-castle-rigny\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau d'Uss\u00e9<\/a>, which conjures up the imaginary world of fairy tales! We were fascinated by its multi-faceted architecture. The fruit of 3 centuries of construction (XV-XVIIIth), the<strong> <\/strong>blends medieval and Gothic inspiration with Renaissance style. The result is an exciting patchwork of stones to decipher! You won't be able to resist the gardens designed by Le N\u00f4tre, gardener to the Sun King Louis XIV, who also designed the gardens at Versailles. We were seduced by the harmony of the landscape's geometry. It's an ideal place for children to discover castle life through reconstructions.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Usse\/i-H76cpRg\/1\/DMxQ96QVF7GGfFtjTJ2qwDBt9mX99hDFM8Q93NfRP\/L\/chateau-usse-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau d'Uss&#xE9;\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Lunch in Chinon<\/h3>\n\n<p>Head to Chinon for a gourmet family break before your next visit! You'll find plenty of places to eat and drink, for example:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Caf\u00e9-restaurant Le Lysandre:<\/strong> inside the fortress, facing the Tour de l'Horloge, ideal for a gourmet break on the terrace or in the garden, in the shade of the hazelnut trees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restaurant La Cave des Sil\u00e8nes:<\/strong> on the outskirts of the estate, opposite the Forteresse parking lot, this wine cellar offers a selection of Chinon wines, as well as a snack bar.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Forteresse-Chinon\/i-dCnwLfp\/1\/FfnmkXbzNWwxDwScmxtFdqBQjP8nZTrksPtMmXGXX\/L\/forteresse-de-chinon-9-L.jpg\" alt=\"Restaurant La Cave des Sil&#xE8;nes in Chinon\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1 - Afternoon: exploring the Royal Fortress of Chinon<\/h3>\n\n<p>Plunge into the heart of French history at the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-royal-fortress-chinon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Royal Fortress of Chinon<\/a>! It's one of the few medieval fortified castles in the Loire Valley. This is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-loire-valley-castles-with-children\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">most beautiful fortresses to visit in the Loire Valley<\/a>, especially with children! Nestling on the banks of the Vienne river, this fortress, one of the most important historic monuments of the Middle Ages in France, offered us a captivating journey through time. The site is very well designed for young and old alike. You can observe scenes with the augmented reality tablet, solve riddles, or follow the character Bertille as she takes you on a tour of the premises. Discover the emblematic figures who have left their mark on history, and admire the surrounding landscape of the UNESCO-listed fortress.<br\/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/billets-forteresse-royale-de-chinon-l151156\/?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Book your tickets<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Forteresse-Chinon\/i-Wz4X9RN\/1\/FHW3tPH3VDqtQnW3ZCCjQKD3NSxLs3qSq5JnrfcwS\/L\/forteresse-de-chinon-172-L.jpg\" alt=\"Royal fortress of Chinon\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Morning: immersion in the Fortress of Montbazon<\/h3>\n\n<p>For this 2nd day, immerse yourself and your family in the exciting life of the Middle Ages by bringing to life the history and archaeology of the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-fortress-montbazon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Montbazon Fortress<\/a> site. Put yourself in the shoes of an onlooker of the time and wander among the costumed figurants, discovering their trades in an authentic medieval setting. You'll be as captivated as we are by the beauty of the keep, which dominates the surrounding area with its noble stature. This is one of the best activities to experience on the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castles-7-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire circuit<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Forteresse-de-Montbazon\/i-J9zqtcM\/0\/FFfRZX7kpxvVX5xSwDkJVtbcpQ7K4qpmjF2Jfb3MF\/L\/forteressemontbazon-14-L.jpg\" alt=\"Montbazon fortress\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Lunch at Montbazon<\/h3>\n\n<p>Nestled in the heart of the fortress site, Restaurant La Taverne welcomes you for a feast! Open all day, this traditional restaurant will enliven your taste buds with fresh local produce and its <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/vineyards-wine-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Loire wine<\/a> list. In the village of Montbzon, you'll also find something for the whole family.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Forteresse-de-Montbazon\/i-xhKkkv2\/0\/x2fp2J7GKzp55gdT8pQ69Cd9gwhHtmV9g2PrvCKp\/L\/forteressemontbazon-15-L.jpg\" alt=\"Village of Montbazon\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Village of Montbazon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2 - Afternoon: visit to Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/h3>\n\n<p>Next step with your little ones: an enchanted interlude at <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/chateau-rivau-castle-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/a>! For us, it was an unforgettable experience. This feudal castle of modest dimensions is set in a remarkable agricultural and botanical setting. Its current owners bring together the best of contemporary design with Renaissance elements in the ch\u00e2teau's logis and nature in the 15 remarkable gardens. The dreamlike world of fairytale gardens can be a source of motivation and interest. And contrary to popular belief, children are often very receptive to contemporary art. To make your visit even more enjoyable, the ch\u00e2teau's staff offer a range of activities for children all year round, including treasure hunts and game books for different age groups. Let's get ready for a fun-filled afternoon!<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateau-Rivau\/i-kQK95fJ\/1\/FPV6L8M3KQvqv98VS6Q4vLVJ9zsWCdLh6rk2QX3Hm\/L\/chateau-rivau-jardins-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau du Rivau (castle and gardens)\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternative 3 - the Loire by train<\/h2>\n\n<p>Visiting the Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire by train is ambitious, because it's not the easiest way. However, we have devised 3 possible days to discover these must-see places in the region. Let yourself be tempted and choose the 2 days that most inspire you from these 3 tours.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option A - 1-day train trip to Ch\u00e2teau de Chambord and Blois<\/h3>\n\n<p>For this day's visit to the Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire by train from Paris or Tours, opt for..:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrival at Blois railway station<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shuttle bus to <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-chambord-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Chambord<\/a> (average duration: 35min)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Length of visit: 2h30 to 3h (estate, ch\u00e2teau and wine house)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Return by bus to <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/is-blois-worth-visiting-reasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Blois<\/a> and visit the must-see sites if you have time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/activites-attractions-chambord-c262960\/billets-pour-chateau-de-chambord-coupe-file-p980056?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Book your Chambord ticket now!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-Chambord\/i-LthxJXQ\/0\/FC3dJwDgrhDgK9X9wMPbqwMb8v6FC3BLrrtccwhGd\/L\/chambord-chateaudomainedepuisterrasses-L.jpg\" alt=\"Chambord Castle\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chambord Castle<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option B - 1-day train trip to Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau and Tours<\/h3>\n\n<p>Would you like to spend a day at the most beautiful ch\u00e2teau in the Loire Valley? By train from Tours, you can visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-chenonceau-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau<\/a> by following these directions:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrival at Chenonceaux railway station (5-minute walk from the ch\u00e2teau)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Full morning at Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau, its gardens and Cave des D\u00f4mes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Back to Tours, where gastronomy, heritage and nature merge happily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Touring Tours in the afternoon - our tips on the best things to do <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-tours-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/les-chateaux-de-la-loire-l7956\/chateau-de-chenonceau-billet-d-entree-t176736\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Book your guided tour ticket for the Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau now!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/n-XkSzNF\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-de-Chenonceau\/i-nh4cZjQ\/0\/55bbc70d\/L\/Chateauchenonceau-chambre5reines-vuelitsalon-L.jpg\" alt=\"View on the room of the five Queens.  \" style=\"width:703px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Room of the 5 queens at Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option C - 1 day by train to Amboise, its Royal Ch\u00e2teau or Clos Luc\u00e9<\/h3>\n\n<p>A 1-day train ride from Tours to the heart of the beautiful town of Amboise is the promise of seeing up to 2 castles in 1 day. If you want to visit the 2 castles in the same day, it's possible by doing 1 in the morning and the other in the afternoon, but be aware that it will be dense. Instead, we suggest a reasonable program:<\/p>\n\n<p>1 day with:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrival at Amboise railway station<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Morning at Ch\u00e2teau du <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chateau-clos-luce-amboise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clos-Luc\u00e9<\/a>, Leonardo da Vinci's last home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lunch and stroll in <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-amboise-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amboise<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/activites-attractions-amboise-c97582\/billets-pour-chateau-royal-d-amboise-coupe-file-p977796?partner=region_lovers&amp;tq_campaign=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Book your ticket for the Ch\u00e2teau du Clos Luc\u00e9 now!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Amboise\/n-f2x5VR\/Clos-Luce\/i-8MzJt34\/0\/wXNtbJLQ4qHtLwKnhGmkbPcmbpZ5hWqFtskhVnhQ\/L\/clos-luce-amboise-atelier-L.jpg\" alt=\"Ch&#xE2;teau du Clos Luc&#xE9;\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ch\u00e2teau du Clos Luc\u00e9<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<p>1 day with:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrival at Amboise railway station<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/chateau-royal-amboise-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ch\u00e2teau Royal d'Amboise<\/a>, a jewel of the Renaissance period and burial place of Leonardo da Vinci<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lunch and stroll in <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/is-amboise-worth-visiting-reasons\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amboise<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/chateau-du-clos-luce-l96466\/chateau-du-clos-luce-maison-de-leonard-de-vinci-t194510\/?partner_id=R3GYW4V&amp;cmp=LL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Book your guided tour ticket for the Ch\u00e2teau Royal d'Amboise now!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Amboise\/n-f2x5VR\/Chateau-Amboise\/i-X3GNDhd\/4\/CWDQZ3s45nNWNzd5KVrH3W9c7Jk9Mzt8XM8ZcL69Q\/L\/chateau_amboise-1-L.jpg\" alt=\"Royal Castle of Amboise\" style=\"width:702px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Royal Castle of Amboise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<p>Need more advice? Read our article on how to choose between the Ch\u00e2teaux of <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-chambord-or-chenonceau-castles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chenonceau or Chambord<\/a> if you're still hesitating! We've also put together some <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/weekend-unusual-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unusual weekend itineraries in the Loire<\/a> to give you a unique experience in this sublime region.<br\/>If you're a wine enthusiast or simply curious, include a wine tasting on your itinerary, with visits to cellars and vineyards - <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-wine-tastings-cellars-vineyards\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">see our article here<\/a>.<br\/>Finally, find out more about our favorite itineraries for visiting the Ch\u00e2teaux de la Loire in <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/loire-valley-3-days-itinerary-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3 days<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castle-4-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4 days<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castle-5-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5 days<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castles-7-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">7 days<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"margin-top:8%;margin-bottom:8%\" class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\" style=\"max-width:700px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_titre gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<h5 class=\"titre_box\">PLAN YOUR TRIP IN  <br\/><span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Loire Valley<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-background is-style-wide hr-box-planif\" style=\"background-color:#ccd3dd;color:#ccd3dd\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_sans_border gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<p class=\"option_titre2\" style=\"font-size:16px\"><strong>The castles of the Loire Valley<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-castles-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best ch\u00e2teaux in the Loire Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/stay-chateau-hotel-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sleeping in a castle in the Loire Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-loire-valley-castles-with-children\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best family castles<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/loire-valley-castles-list-chateaux\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">List with over 100 castles<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Chateaux-de-la-Loire\/Chateau-de-Chenonceau\/i-B8wzgnf\/0\/0c8c0706\/L\/chateau-chenonceau-1-L.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-background is-style-wide hr-box-planif\" style=\"background-color:#ccd3dd;color:#ccd3dd\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<p class=\"option_titre\" style=\"font-size:16px\"><strong>Other<\/strong> <strong>places to explore<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"ul_box wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-loire-valley-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best things to do in the Loire Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/towns-loire-valley-cities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Most beautiful towns along the Loire<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/most-beautiful-villages-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Most beautiful villages<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-gardens-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Most beautiful gardens<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-nantes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best things to do in Nantes<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-angers-visit\/\">Things to do in Angers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-saumur-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best things to do in Saumur<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-tours-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Things to do in Tours<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/best-things-to-do-amboise-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Things to do in Amboise<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/flight-hot-air-balloon-castles-loire-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hot-air balloon ride<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/General\/i-DrhL7mp\/0\/bb0d2dae\/L\/vue-loire-L.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-background is-style-wide hr-box-planif\" style=\"background-color:#ccd3dd;color:#ccd3dd\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns box_sans_border is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column texte_planif is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<p class=\"option_titre\" style=\"font-size:16px\"><strong>Practice<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"ul_box wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/where-stay-loire-valley-best-areas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to stay in the Loire Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\">See our tips for renting a car <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-nantes-airport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in Nantes<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-angers-station\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Angers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-tours-france\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tours<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-cdg-aeroport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CDG<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-orly-airport-paris\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Orly<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/renting-car-beauvais-airport-paris\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beauvais<\/a>...<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\">How to get to the Loire Valley - article to come<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\">Itineraries: <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/loire-valley-3-days-itinerary-castle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3 days<\/a> - <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castle-4-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4 days<\/a> - <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castle-5-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5 days<\/a> - <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/visit-loire-valley-castles-7-days-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1 week<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:14px\">Weekends: <a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/weekend-unusual-loire-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unusual<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top planif-radius is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img-portrait\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Vallee-loire\/Villes-Loire\/i-L5mq7xV\/0\/207cbe42\/L\/nantes-villes-elephant-L.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons planif_bouton is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size\" style=\"font-size:14px\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-text-color wp-element-button\" style=\"border-radius:4px\">All our tips (coming soon)<strong>  <strong>  <\/strong><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4676\" style=\"width: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/ArrowRight.webp\" alt=\"\"\/><\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_texte gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box-texte gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_auteur_voyage gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img_auteur_voyage img_provisoire\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/claire-robinson\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Region-Lovers\/Equipe\/i-nsNF6C6\/0\/Cs2F5n96pkt9xFD9D3SVqmQspMhrKgN75nHgBqmjG\/L\/Claire-L.png\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"titre_auteur_voyage\"><span>SHE MADE THE TRIP <\/span><span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Claire<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-genesis-blocks-gb-container box_auteur_voyage gb-block-container\"><div class=\"gb-container-inside\"><div class=\"gb-container-content\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large img_auteur_voyage img_provisoire\"><a href=\"https:\/\/loirelovers.fr\/en\/myriam-bendriss-mudibu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Region-Lovers\/Equipe\/i-2VkpKdc\/0\/DqDG7GbR6CxhqJq4M7VBQnSmkShv4QM9sWgTxgDm4\/L\/myriam-2-L.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"titre_auteur_voyage\"><span>SHE WROTE THE ARTICLE \n <\/span><span class=\"titre_box_manuscrit\">Myriam<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you a history or architecture buff with just 2 days to spare in the Loire Valley? Not to worry. We&#8217;ve designed optimized itineraries to discover the most beautiful ch\u00e2teaux and make the most of your getaway. Sublime gardens, refinement, art, ancient or Italian influences, get ready for a journey through the ages! In 2 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":8175,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[71],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-8179","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-travel-tips","8":"entry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Visit the Loire Castle in 2 days: our itineraries<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Our detailed 2-day Loire Valley Ch\u00e2teaux tours (must-do itineraries, gardens, by train, with the family...).\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" 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