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Explore Castles, Vineyards, and French History
Renaissance architecture, majestic castles, beautiful countryside, and exquisite wines make the Loire Valley one of the most spectacular regions in France. Just under 2 hours and 30 minutes from Paris, the so-called “Garden of France” offers the perfect escape from the big city lights. Join this day trip from Paris and visit three amazing chateaux in the Loire Valley in just one day.
The main attractions in the Loire Valley are the seriously awesome castles. Discover Château de Chenonceau and its picturesque gardens with colorful flowerbeds, the hillside Amboise Castle, which overlooks the Loire River, and the Renaissance architecture of Château de Chambord.
The Drive to the Loire Valley
Departing from Paris early in the morning, you’ll venture outside the city gates and find yourself surrounded by breathtaking French countryside. Think gorgeous vineyards, rolling hills, and hillside villages where life is slow-paced.
During the drive, your tour guide will share fascinating stories about the region and tell you everything there is to know about some of the most important historical landmarks in the Loire Valley. Once you arrive in the heart of the Loire Valley, get ready to begin your castle-hopping adventure.
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Château de Chambord: The Majestic Icon
The first stop on many day trips from Paris to Loire Valley is often the Château de Chambord. With 420 rooms and an enormous park spanning over 5,000 acres of land, it is the largest and most extravagant château in the region. The castle was actually built as a hunting lodge for King Francis I.
Step inside the beautifully preserved rooms packed with intricate stone carvings. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace with its towers and ornate chimneys. The main attraction at Château de Chambor is the remarkable double helix staircase, which is believed to be the work of Leonardo da Vinci. It takes about 90 minutes to explore this well-preserved chateau in the Loire Valley.
Amboise: Medieval Charm and River Views
A short drive brings you to the hilltop town of Amboise. Here, you will find a beautiful château that overlooks the Loire River. An interesting fact is that the medieval town is the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci. His body is buried in the chapel of the castle. Explore the richly decorated rooms with sculpted vaulted ceilings, monumental fireplaces, and finely carved wooden furniture.
The medieval town below the castle is famed for its narrow, cobbled streets. Snap a photo of the Clock Tower in the city center, and choose from many small cafés, bistros, and bakeries for your lunch break. From April to October, you can participate in a small wine tasting of the local famous wines.
Château de Chenonceau: The Castle of Women
The final stop on your day trip from France is the so-called “Ladies’ Castle”. Where does the nickname come from? Powerful women, such as Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers, played a significant role in the design of the castle.
Château de Chenonceau stretches over the River Cher and is celebrated for its striking gardens, graceful arches, and elegant architecture. Travelers can stroll through the gardens and explore the beautifully decorated interiors.
Return To Paris
It takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive back from the Loire Valley to Paris. You will be back in Paris around 8 pm, just in time for dinner!
Tour Highlights
Château de Chambord
The largest and most extravagant château in the region.
Amboise
A beautiful château that overlooks the Loire River.
Château de Chenonceau
Château de Chenonceau stretches over the River Cher and is celebrated for its striking gardens, graceful arches, and elegant architecture.
