12 Must do’s in Loire Valley | France

The Loire Valley in France is a breathtaking region renowned for its fairytale-like castles, lush vineyards, and picturesque landscapes. If you’re planning a visit to this enchanting destination, don’t miss these unforgettable experiences and must-see gems that capture the true magic of the Loire Valley. Here are my top recommendations for making the most of your time in this captivating part of France.

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1) Château de Chambord

This castle is the biggest castle in the Loire Valley and is for most people also the most beautiful one in the area. The forest around the castle is as big as Paris. The castle has more than 400 rooms, a staircase made by Leonardo da Vinci and more than 100 chimneys. We couldn’t see the interior of the castle unfortunately as President Macron himself planned a surprise visit there. Shame!

Fun Fact: Free for all people under 26 from the EU!

2) Château de Chenonceau

This castle was partially built on the river de Cher. If you’re lucky you can see people on their kayaks drifting under the castle! The gardens still look the same as in the old days.

3) Château de Villandry

This castle from the 14th century was in the hands of Napoleon and Jérôme Bonaparte. The gardens are the highlight of your visit. Don’t forget to go through the maze!

4) Château d’Amboise

This castle was one of the favorite castles of the French Royalty during the 15th century. The castle also has the last resting place of Leonardo da Vinci as he was very good friends with the then King. Not much is left from the former castle but the remaining building is worth a visit.

5) Manoir du Clos Lucé

This manor was the home of Leonardo da Vinci in the 16th century. The house has been renovated to the style in which Leonardo was living in. We haven’t seen this one, unfortunately.

6) Château de Cheverny

This castle was the inspiration of a castle in the Belgian comic book Tintin. The castle therefore has an exhibition about the comic book.

7) Chaumont-Sur-Loire

This castle is famous for its gardens. Between April and November, you can visit the International Garden Festival there.

8) Château d’Ussé

This castle was the inspiration of the tale Sleeping Beauty by Charles Perrault. When visiting the castle, several scenes from the story are played out.

9) Forteresse Royale de Chinon

This fortress was one of the biggest and most important fortresses in France. It’s also the location where Jeanne d’Arc met the French king Charles VII.

10) Château de Saumur

This castle is one of the oldest castles in the Loire and has a spectacular view: you can see two rivers emerge (Loire and Thouet). This castle was the inspiration for the Disney movie of Sleeping Beauty.

11) Loire valley: Orleans

Orleans is the city of Joan of Arc, she defended the city from the British invasion at age 17! Read all about it in a separate article.

Read more about the must do’s in Orleans in this special blog post!
» Orleans | France «

12) Loire valley: Tours

Tours is a city in central France, located on the Loire River and Cher River. Tours is a perfect base for discovering the impressive castles in the Loire Valley.

Read more about the must do’s in Tours in this special blog post!
» Tours | France «

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