The Loire Valley in France is full of chateaux, some small, others large and majestic. One of the most popular sights is the Chateau de Chenonceau, with its royal apartments and two wings that span the River Cher. Here visitors can explore the stores and find souvenirs of their visit. A day trip to explore the valley’s chateaux can be arranged from Paris and usually includes wine tasting at a small chateau. Amboise Castle and Clos Luce are also popular spots, as well as several hotels along the way. For those who have more time available, there are several tours that last up to 12 hours and include visits to other notable sites in France such as Mont Saint Michel and Rouen Cathedral. Whether it is a day trip or a weeklong excursion, the Loire Valley has something for everyone interested in French history.

An authentic French experience

This 170-mile stretch of central France is overflowing with hundreds of chateaux and smaller castles, including the Chateau Chenonceau which is considered one of the most romantic places in France. The magnificent facade of Chateau Chenonceau is mirrored in the shimmering water of the Loire River, creating a breath-taking sight that abounds along this 170-mile stretch. Visitors can take tours of some of these magnificent chateaux and discover their history as home to many country’s royals over time. Miles upon miles along the Loire River make up this most beautiful region in France and are a must see for any history or art enthusiast.

The Loire Valley is home to some of the most beautiful and impressive chateaus as well as some of the most beautiful medieval towns, known as Beaux Villages de France. In Vienne, you can find the French Royal Court and a few other picturesque villages. Amboise is one of the more popular cities in the region, located on the banks of the river, and home to Chateau de Amboise. Other towns such as Cites de Caractere are also located along its banks and make for a beautiful sight.

The most popular chateaux

Loire Valley is an underrated gem in France, boasting many historic attractions. Blois Chateau is one of the most visited castles in the region and offers a number of activities from guided tours to exhibitions. Visitors can explore the medieval town and get a glimpse of the royal castle built in 1393. Not far from Blois, visitors can find Chateau Chenonceau - one of the most famous and largest castles in France. It was built by Henry II and his wife Catherine de Medicis and is known for its lavish gardens and interiors. Beaugency is another city to visit with its own castles such as Ambroise Castle, Cheverny Castle, Amboise Castle, Chaumont sur Loire Castle, Chambord and more.

The Loire Valley also has plenty of old, pretty medieval towns to explore. The Abbey of Fontevraud is a magnificent abbey with its imposing medieval castle and crypts, which are a burial place for many French kings. The Chateau de Villandry is another fairy tale medieval castle that has been decorated with magnificent artworks and rooms. It's also located by the banks of the river Loire. The Chateau de Chenonceaux is an incredible castle with its own gardens and airy rooms, situated on the banks of the same river. For history lovers, you can visit the Chateau de Compiegne in France or take a trip to Chinon for its impressive fortress-like structure.

On a tour of the Loire Valley, make sure to include a few chateaux, such as Chateau Damboise and the Royal Chateau of Amboise, including its own 100 bedrooms. Other chateaux to explore are Blois and Azay-le-Rideau. Take advantage of the opportunity to boat glide upstream through the region’s countryside and donkey farms with a self-drive electric boat. The Sancerre white gleaming facade is also worth seeing in person. When you reach the River Cher, pull your last river bend before arriving in France’s’ Loire Valley. Explore France's most popular castle at Amboise, which stretches along the River Loire for more than five miles from Blois to Tours. Enjoy your time in this beautiful region and appreciate all that it has to offer!

Do not miss Orleans!

Loire Valley in France is a must-see place for any traveller. Its fairy tale-like castles, exquisite gardens, and charming towns enchants visitors from all over the world. Explore the Château Chambord near Orleans and take a tour of one or two wineries to taste several local wines - like French wine - that are unforgettable. Don't forget to try some of the delicious cheeses along your journey! At the end of your trip, you will be amazed at how much beauty, history, and culture Loire Valley has to offer.

The Chateau de Chambord is one of the most impressive and stately castles in all of France. Built by several French kings, it is a grand residence with a chapel, four towers, and an enormous courtyard. A short guided tour will provide you with some insight into the life of royalty and its magnificent architecture. You can also visit the Royal Chateau of Langeais-Rochecorbon to watch costumed ladies re-enacting life in 16th century France. A visit to Amboise-Langeais is also worth considering for its outdoor market and its Le Saint Hubert watch shop where you can purchase a traditional timepiece at a reasonable price. Tours is another city that should not be missed as it was once the royal residence of King Francis I.