From Louis XIV to Marie Antoinette, French history is marked by its monarchs. Their decadent wardrobes, decorated abodes and royal courts all play an important role in the story of France. The Palace of Versailles may be the most well-known of French châteaux, but you needn’t stop there. Only a couple hours from Paris, the Loire Valley is particularly known for its wealth of châteaux and is accessible as a day trip from Paris. If you want to squeeze in Loire Valley castles during your trip to Paris, don’t fret. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots and the best Loire Valley tours from Paris.
Best Loire Valley Tours from Paris
How to Get to the Loire Valley from Paris
Easily accessed by train, the Loire Valley makes for a perfect day trip from Paris. Tours and Amboise are 2-hour train rides from Paris. Blois is just an hour and a half from Paris by train. Orléans is only an hour from Paris. No matter which of these towns you choose, the Loire Valley châteaux are at your fingertips. French Side Travel also offers private pickups. If you’re looking for a seamless experience and are wanting to leave the logistics to the pros, let us help.
Château de Chambord
One of the Loire Valley’s best-known castles, the Château de Chambord dates back to the 1500s. But it wasn’t finished until the reign of Louis XIV, the Sun King, in the 1600s, according to its website. This château also played a vital role during World War II. Artwork at the Louvre was evacuated in haste to protect these masterpieces from the Nazis, and the château stored many pieces safe keeping. One of its most famed temporary residents was the Mona Lisa, per Chambord. In 1981, the château became a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today you can marvel at its flawless gardens and Renaissance architecture.
Château de Chenonceau
Nicknamed the “Ladies’ Castle,” the Château de Chenonceau has been home to many notable women over the years, such as Catherine de Medici. This Loire Valley castle’s history dates back to the 1100s and features artwork from artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Anthony Van Dyck. Wander this château’s Flower Garden and take a floral workshop.
Château du Clos Lucé
Not far from the Château d’Amboise, the Château du Clos Lucé is best known for being where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years. In 1516, King Francis I invited da Vinci to stay at this château, and an underground passage between the two châteaux allowed access, according to the site. Today you can explore the châteaux’s rooms including its library, bedrooms and da Vinci’s workshop as well as its park.
La Forteresse Royale de Chinon
The history of the Royal Fortress of Chinon can be traced back to the Roman Empire. This fortress. And in the 1400s, Joan of Arc came to meet Charles VII at this fortress. Explore its different towers, archaeological collections and Joan of Arc collection — all a stone’s throw away from the renowned Loire Valley vineyards.
Château de Villandry
This Loire Valley château’s history can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, the Château de Villandry changed ownership and expanded, with notable additions being its many gardens. Spend the day strolling through this château’s arcaded galleries and the intricate oriental drawing room.
French Side Travel Loire Valley Tours
From horseback to hot-air balloons, here are some of our favorite Loire Valley tours from Paris. Interested in learning more about different Loire Valley châteaux? Read our post about 10 of our favorite Loire Valley châteaux.
Private Guided Tour of Loire Valley Castles with Driver
Not interested in navigating trains or driving around the region yourself? Leave the logistics up to us so that you can concentrate on admiring the Loire Valley’s fairytale castles. During your private tour with a licensed driver, you’ll spend time at some of the best spots in the Loire Valley. From the Château de Chenonceau to the Château de Chambord, you’ll see life as it used to be for the French royals. Admire the exquisite architecture, manicured gardens and classic artwork in these Loire Valley castles, all at your own speed.
Full-Day Wine Tour of the Loire Valley
Spend the day immersing yourself in the enchanting Loire Valley wine region. Located near the Château de Chenonceau, this domain ferments its wines in troglodyte cellars, or underground caves. You’ll also have the chance to explore a winery close to the Château Royal d’Amboise. Here you’ll stroll its vineyards and troglodytic cellars. Learn more about the region’s wine, including its renowned Vouvray, from the winemakers themselves.
Visit the Château de Villandry, Château de L’Islette, and the Vouvray Wine Region
Can’t decide between exploring the Loire Valley châteaux and discovering its wine region? No need to choose with this French Side Travel tour. Wander the stunning gardens of Château de Villandry and the idyllic Château de l’Islette. Wander two local wineries and be tempted with a glass of Muscadet or Vouvray as you brush up on your Loire Valley appellations.
Hot-Air Balloon Ride over the Loire Valley
Fancy the most privileged view of the Loire Valley castles? Embark on one of the most thrilling Loire Valley tours from Paris with a hot-air balloon ride. Enjoy a three-hour ride over the Loire Valley as you admire the Château de Chenonceau and the Château d’Amboise from the clouds. Sip on a glass of wine and nosh on regional products as you marvel at the scenery.
Loire Valley Tour on Horseback
Admire the Loire Valley châteaux while also taking in the splendid scenery of the region with a tour on horseback. On your private tour with French Side Travel, you’ll trot through the region’s vineyards and forests. Stop at Château Villandry for lunch and a stroll through this castle just outside of Tours.
Want to spend more than just a day in the Loire Valley? We couldn’t agree more! From the Loire Valley’s rich wine region to its majestic castles, there’s so much to squeeze into your trip. French Side Travel also offers longer tours in the Loire Valley region. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or small group, French Side Travel can personalize your trip to your group’s needs.
Where to Stay in Paris
Hôtel San Régis
Searching for a hotel fit for royalty? Hotel San Régis will enchant you with its 42 immaculately decorated rooms and suites. This five-star hotel is but a stone’s throw away from the Champs-Elysées. Enjoy your morning coffee from your suite’s terrace overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Dine at the hotel’s restaurant and treat yourself to a goûter prepared by Jessica Préalpato, named one of the best pastry chefs.
Château des Fleurs
Rewind to the Belle Époque with a stay at five-star hotel Château des Fleurs. Enjoy a stay in one of its 37 rooms and admire beautiful Parisian architecture from your bed. Nosh on the hotel’s Franco-Korean fusion menu. Treat yourself to a massage or a facial at its spa. You’ll feel just like a royal!
Already packing for one of these Loire Valley tours from Paris? You might also be interested in: Flavors of the Loire Valley and Luxury Escape to the Loire Valley. Need some help personalizing your trip?