6 Nights Loire Valley Castle Tour

Our French journey begins at Paris CDG Airport, where we board a direct train to Tours. In just 1 hour and 20 minutes, traveling through picturesque landscapes, we arrive at our first stop: St. Pierre des Corps station. 

This charming city in the heart of the Loire Valley serves as our gateway to exploring the region’s world-famous châteaux.

The Loire Valley: The Garden of France
 

A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, the Loire Valley is dotted with majestic and alluring castles. Here, you can cycle through the countryside, cruise down the river, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Gothic and Renaissance periods. Often referred to as the "Garden of France," the valley has become one of the most romantic and culturally rich destinations in the country.

Exploring Tours

• As the largest city in the Loire Valley, Tours offers a wealth of attractions even beyond its historic castle ruins:
• Cathédrale Saint-Gatien: A stunning example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture.
• The Old Town (Vieux Tours): Wander through ancient streets lined with grand mansions and vibrant squares.
• Place Plumereau: A famous, lively square surrounded by iconic timber-framed houses.
• Hôtel Goüin: A magnificent Renaissance residence located near the cathedral.
• Rue Briçonnet: An absolute must-visit street featuring buildings ranging from Romanesque to 18th-century styles—a living timeline of architectural history.
• Pro Tip: Just opposite the Tourist Office, you can hop on the "Petit Train" (Tourist Train) for a delightful guided tour around the city's main sights.

Prepare to step into a fairy tale as we explore the most iconic architectural masterpieces of the Loire Valley. 

From the elegant arches of the 'Ladies' Castle' to the grand hunting grounds of kings, Day 2 is a deep dive into the romance, rivalries, and artistic genius that defined the French Renaissance. Get ready to witness the pinnacle of French heritage.

Important Information

• Included: Entrance fees to Château de Chenonceau and Château de Chambord.
• Not Included: Entrance fee to Château d'Amboise and lunch.

With its unique architecture spanning the River Cher, Château de Chenonceau is one of the most exquisite gems of the Loire Valley. Known affectionately as the "Ladies' Castle," its history is deeply intertwined with influential women such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de' Medici. The surrounding Renaissance gardens only add to its breathtaking grandeur. Since the 16th century, the castle has been shaped by six successive female owners, imbuing the estate with an unmistakable sense of refinement and elegance.

A Tale of Two Rivals
The castle’s most famous legend involves the rivalry between its second owner, Diane de Poitiers, and Catherine de' Medici. Despite being 20 years Catherine’s senior and acting as a mentor in royal etiquette, Diane was the mistress of Catherine’s husband, King Henry II.

In a grand romantic gesture, Henry II gifted Chenonceau to Diane. Naturally, upon the King’s death, Catherine immediately forced Diane to vacate the premises and moved in herself. The castle's feminine legacy continued with its third owner, Louise de Lorraine, Catherine’s daughter-in-law. Following her husband's assassination, Louise transformed her room into a somber sanctuary of black and wore white mourning clothes for the rest of her life. To this day, visitors can still see this poignant "Black Room."

The Castle Today
Today, the two rival gardens bloom in harmony, showing no trace of the historic feuds—only the enduring pride of the "Queens of the Castle." Though it remains privately owned by the Menier family (famous French chocolatiers), it welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually to share in its timeless charm.

Dining Tip: The estate features an onsite restaurant where you can enjoy local French delicacies amidst the beautiful grounds.

Free time for lunch in the charming streets of Amboise.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of the former capital of the Loire Valley. You are invited to explore the Royal Château d'Amboise or visit Château du Clos Lucé, the final residence of the legendary Leonardo da Vinci.

Royal Château d'Amboise: A Valois Stronghold
While its foundations date back to a 5th-century defensive tower, it wasn't until the 15th century that Amboise was transformed into a grand royal residence. As the preferred court of kings like Charles VIII, Louis XII, Francis I, and Henry II (and his queen, Catherine de' Medici), it became the heart of the Valois dynasty.

Much of the castle’s splendor is thanks to Charles VIII, who was born and raised here. His deep affection for the estate fueled his ambition to expand it into the largest castle in the Loire Valley—a project so costly it had to be funded by the national salt tax (gabelle). Tragically, in 1498, the young king died at just 28 years old after a freak accident where he struck his head on a stone lintel.

Château du Clos Lucé: In the Footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci
Located just behind the royal castle, Château du Clos Lucé is where Leonardo da Vinci spent the final three years of his life. At the invitation of King Francis I, the polymath spent his days painting and working on his diverse passions until his very last breath.

A visit here offers an intimate glimpse into Da Vinci’s daily life. You will be mesmerized by the collection of models built by IBM, based directly on his original sketches. These exhibits showcase his peerless genius—not only as a painter and sculptor but as a visionary engineer whose imagination and creativity remain unparalleled in history.

Château de Chambord is the undisputed crown jewel of the Loire Valley and stands as one of the most magnificent examples of French Renaissance architecture. Nestled within a vast national hunting reserve, the sheer scale and grand proportions of this estate are truly breathtaking.

Commissioned by King Francis I, it is widely believed that Leonardo da Vinci influenced its visionary design. The castle’s most iconic feature is its ingenious double-helix staircase—two independent spirals that wind around a central core without ever intersecting, allowing guests to ascend and descend simultaneously without crossing paths.

With over 400 rooms, every corner of the château is filled with exquisite Renaissance decorations and grand architectural details. Inside, visitors can admire meticulously preserved period furniture, intricate frescoes, and a rich collection of art that offers a window into the opulent lifestyle of the French monarchy. Surrounded by formal French gardens and a serene lake, Chambord remains an unmissable masterpiece of French cultural heritage.

Important Information

• Included: Entrance fees to Château de Chenonceau and Château de Chambord.
• Not Included: Entrance fee to Château d'Amboise and lunch.

Maximize your French experience with our flexible Day 3 itinerary. Choose one of the following guided or self-guided excursions from Tours. Whether it’s horticulture, royal history, or heroic legends that pique your interest, there is a perfect destination waiting for you.

Approximately 1 hour by bus from Tours.
 

This three-story château is a hallmark of Renaissance architecture—symmetrical, ornate, and grand. While the interior is exquisitely decorated with period frescoes and sculptures, the true highlight is its 6-hectare garden estate, divided into distinct, breathtaking themes:
 

• The Water Garden (Jardin d’Eau): A serene space centered around fountains and ponds, showcasing the elegance of water.
• The Ornamental Garden (Jardin Ornemental): A vibrant tapestry of flowers and meticulously manicured hedges in intricate geometric patterns.
• The Kitchen Garden (Jardin Potager): A beautiful yet functional space where vegetables, fruits, and herbs are grown in aesthetic arrangements.
• The Sun Garden (Jardin du Soleil): Featuring nine themed sections representing the planets.
• Pro Tip: Head to the château’s top floor for a spectacular panoramic view of the entire garden layout.

Use your Eurail Pass for a quick 36-minute train ride from St. Pierre des Corps (or 21 minutes from Amboise).

Perched on the northern bank of the Loire, Blois is an ancient city that served as a political and cultural hub for French royalty during the Renaissance.

Château Royal de Blois: The city’s iconic landmark. It is a unique architectural mosaic where Medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical styles coexist within one courtyard. The interior houses a vast collection of fine art and historical artifacts.

Beyond the castle, Blois invites you to get lost in its charming medieval streets, visit the historic Town Hall, and admire Renaissance mansions.

Blois is also a gastronomic delight. Be sure to pair authentic French cuisine with premium wines sourced from the surrounding Loire vineyards.

Use your Eurail Pass for a 1h 45m train ride from St. Pierre des Corps (or just 36 minutes from Blois).

Orléans is a city of profound historical significance, famously serving as a strategic stronghold during the Hundred Years' War.

The Legend of Joan of Arc: As the city liberated by the "Maid of Orléans" in 1429, the spirit of Joan of Arc is everywhere. You can visit numerous monuments and museums dedicated to the national heroine.

A magnificent Gothic masterpiece and the city’s most recognizable landmark.

Explore the beautifully restored district filled with ancient churches, monasteries, and timber-framed houses.

Known for its vibrant energy, Orléans hosts numerous art exhibitions, music festivals, and traditional celebrations throughout the year.

Today, we depart from Tours (St. Pierre des Corps station) via high-speed train for a scenic 2-hour journey to Bordeaux.

The "Little Paris" of Southwestern France
Often called "Little Paris," Bordeaux exudes the same elegance and grandeur as the capital, but with its own distinct charm. The city center is a shopper's paradise, featuring Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street. Whether you’re browsing luxury brands, relaxing at a sidewalk café, or simply people-watching, you will quickly understand why Bordeaux is a favorite destination for locals and international travelers alike. When it comes to dining, the city is famous for its Bistros, where you can enjoy fresh, seasonal French cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Mirror of the Soul: Place de la Bourse & Le Miroir d’Eau
A trip to Bordeaux is incomplete without visiting the Place de la Bourse and the mesmerizing Miroir d’Eau (Water Mirror). This dreamlike setting is a photographer's playground—a thin layer of water over granite creates a stunning reflection of the majestic 18th-century architecture. Whether it's the laughter of children playing in the mist or the romantic glow of the square at night, this landmark offers a completely different but equally magical face from day to night.

A Taste of History: The Legendary Canelé
You may have tasted a Canelé before, but do you know the story behind its caramelized crust and tender heart?

Legend has it that in the 16th century, flour was frequently donated to local convents by merchants at the Bordeaux docks. Simultaneously, winemakers used egg whites to clarify their wines, leaving behind an abundance of unused egg yolks, which were also given to the nuns. The resourceful sisters combined these two ingredients to create a small cake originally called "canelas." The name comes from the Old French word "cannelure," referring to the iconic fluted shape of the copper molds.

Don’t miss out: For the most authentic experience, visit the renowned Baillardran, a specialist famous for perfecting this local delicacy. It’s a must-try treat while wandering the streets of Bordeaux!
 

【Bordeaux: The World’s Wine Capital】

The prestige of Bordeaux wine is rooted in its terroir—a unique harmony of climate, soil composition, and seasonal conditions like rainfall, temperature, and sunlight. These factors are the secret keys to the complexity and flavor profiles that define a world-class vintage.

The global fame of Bordeaux wine traces back to the 12th century. Following the marriage of Henry II of England to Eleanor of Aquitaine, Bordeaux fell under British rule. The English royalty developed a deep passion for the region's wines, sparking a trend that eventually spread across Britain and, ultimately, to every corner of the globe.

Must-Visit: La Cité du Vin (The City of Wine)
A source of immense local pride, La Cité du Vin is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. The museum’s striking silhouette is designed to evoke a decanter—the elegant glass vessel used to "awaken" wine. By pouring wine into a decanter, you increase its surface area to air, allowing the hidden aromas to breathe and develop their full complexity.

Visitor Information: A standard ticket to La Cité du Vin (approx. €20) includes:

Access to the Permanent Exhibition, an immersive journey through the world of wine.

A complimentary glass of wine at The Belvedere, the museum’s stunning panoramic rooftop bar.
 

Today’s adventure is a curated guided day tour to the three most prestigious wine villages of the Médoc region: Pauillac, Margaux, and Saint-Julien. (Note: This tour does not operate on Mondays and Wednesdays).

A Journey Along the Route des Châteaux
Our day begins on the famous "Route des Châteaux" (Castle Road). At our first stop, a historic estate, you will receive an expert-led tour of the winemaking facilities and cellars to learn about the region's traditional and modern techniques. The tour concludes with a professional tasting session, designed to expand the palate of both beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

Pauillac & Afternoon Tastings
After a morning of discovery, enjoy leisure time for lunch (at your own expense) in Pauillac, the heart of the Médoc. In the afternoon, we will visit two additional wineries, allowing you to experience the diverse "terroir" and flavor profiles that distinguish various appellations across the Left Bank.

Iconic Landmarks & Photo Stops
As we journey through the Left Bank, we will pass some of the world’s most celebrated estates, including Château Margaux and Château Palmer. If time permits, we will make brief photo stops at these architectural and viticultural icons:

• Château Palmer
• Château Margaux
• Château Rauzan-Ségla
• Château Cantenac Brown

Important Information

• Included: Guided visits and tasting fees at three selected wineries.
• Not Included: Lunch and hotel pick-up/drop-off services.
   

Beyond the City: Choose Your Southwest Adventure" 

Bordeaux is the perfect gateway to the diverse wonders of Southwestern France. Today, the choice is yours: will you climb Europe’s tallest sand dune, wander through a medieval wine village, explore a hidden gem of French history, or get lost in the world capital of comic arts? Use your train pass to discover the unique landscapes and heritage that lie just beyond the city limits.

Arcachon: The Ocean’s Pearl

Access: Approximately 55 minutes by train from Bordeaux St. Jean station.

Located on the pristine Atlantic coast of France, Arcachon is a premier seaside destination renowned for its golden beaches and world-class seafood. With its unique blend of eclectic architecture and breathtaking natural landscapes, it is the ultimate retreat for those seeking both relaxation and adventure by the sea.

Sun, Sand, and Sea
The city is surrounded by a variety of stunning coastlines, such as Plage Pereire and Plage d’Arcachon. These beaches are summer favorites, offering full facilities for sunbathing, swimming, and an array of water sports.

A Culinary Haven
As a historic coastal hub, Arcachon is a paradise for gourmets. Local restaurants pride themselves on serving the freshest catch from the surrounding waters—be sure to try the legendary local oysters, lobster, and a variety of regional fish that have made this area famous.

Nature and Exploration 
For those who love the outdoors, the region offers scenic walking and cycling paths, such as the Sentier du Littoral (Coastal Path). Nature enthusiasts can also explore protected areas like Lac de la Magdeleine and the Marais de Pramousquier, which are exceptional spots for birdwatching and eco-tourism.

Approximately 30 minutes by train from Bordeaux St. Jean station.

Located northeast of Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion is a legendary destination world-renowned for its prestigious wine appellations. As a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, this medieval village is a living museum, where ancient châteaux and rolling vineyards create a landscape of timeless beauty. It is the ultimate pilgrimage site for wine connoisseurs and history enthusiasts alike.

Approximately 40 minutes by train from Bordeaux St. Jean station.

Perched on the scenic banks of the Garonne River, La Réole is a captivating ancient town celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque riverside vistas. Stepping into La Réole feels like a journey back in time, where visitors can wander through narrow cobblestone streets steeped in centuries of history.
 

Approximately 35 minutes by train from Bordeaux St. Jean.
Note: Seat reservations are required for this high-speed route and involve an additional fee.

Perched on a plateau in the Charente department, Angoulême is an ancient city renowned for its magnificent medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Its collection of historic churches, castles, and museums makes it a haven for history buffs and artists alike.

A Living Art Gallery
Angoulême is globally famous as the home of the International Comics Festival. Throughout the city, dozens of stunning comic-style murals adorn building walls, transforming the entire town into a vibrant outdoor art gallery. It is an unmissable destination for comic enthusiasts and creative spirits.

Today, your journey comes full circle as you board a high-speed direct train, whisking you back to Paris in just 2 hours. Relax and enjoy the final glimpses of the French countryside before arriving in the heart of the capital.

Should you wish to extend your stay in Paris, please feel free to inform your Travel Consultant. We are happy to assist with additional hotel bookings and arrangements to make your trip even more seamless.