This full day excursion from Paris gives you
the chance to discover three of the Loire
Valley's most famous châteaux: the
sophisticated Château d'Amboise, the
charming Château de Chenonceau, built across
the River Cher, and the majestic Château de
Chambord.
Immerse yourself in the French Renaissance
and experience the Loire Valley, a region of
France with a unique density of Renaissance
castles and manor houses where the royal
court would often stay.
Set off first thing in the morning from your
Paris accommodation for a unique day. Take
advantage of the minibus journey to relax
and listen to the commentary provided by
your driver-guide. You will arrive at the
Château d'Amboise at around 9:30 am.
The Château d’Amboise sits on a rocky
outcrop surrounded by fortifications. In the
late 15th and early 16th Centuries, it was
the royal residence during the reigns of
Kings Charles VIII and Francis I. Admire its
wonderful collection of Gothic and
Renaissance furniture, explore the royal
apartments, and marvel at the chapel that
contains the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci. You
will also have the opportunity to stroll
through the beautiful gardens overlooking
the Loire River itself. After a visit of
around one hour, we will move on to the
Château de Chenonceau.
Chenonceau,
also known as the "Ladies' Castle", was
built during the 16th Century and has been
home to many well-known aristocratic French
women, such as Diane de Poitiers and
Catherine de Medici. In a unique position
spanning the River Cher, it now bears
witness to a sophisticated and typically
French style of living, with elegantly
furnished floral rooms, old master
paintings, and antique tapestries. Spend
around one hour enjoying a self-guided visit
through this magnificent château as well as
its grounds and ornamental gardens.
Enjoy an included lunch at either the Au
Gâteau Breton restaurant (winter) in the
village of Chenonceaux or in the Orangerie
glasshouse (summer) at the Château de
Chenonceau,
depending on the time of year.
Menu at "Au Gateau Breton" in Chenonceaux
city: [Terrine campagnarde OR assiette de
crudités OR potage de légumes ; Poulet
tourangelle sauce crème et champignons OR
Faux Filet grillé OR poisson cabillaud
beurre blanc avec légumes (frites et
haricots verts) ; Tarte tatin OR
profiteroles au chocolat OR gâteau chocolat
crème anglaise OR crème caramel OR glace
; 1/4 vin au choix OR verre de soda (Coca/Orangina/Ice-Tea)
+ café ; Eau en carafe sur table] (not
available in english)
After lunch, your driver-guide will take you
on to the Château de Chambord, the largest
of all the Loire Valley châteaux. It was
built for King Francis I of France in the
16th Century with the help of none other
than the great Leonardo da Vinci. Take
advantage of the opportunity to explore this
spectacular château. See its extraordinary
double helix staircase and panoramic terrace
with a sea of monumental chimneys
overlooking the château's grounds.
Approximately one and a quarter hour's
visiting time.
Visits of all Castles on your own.
Return to your Paris accommodation is
scheduled for approximately 6:45 pm.
Please note:
- The itinerary and schedule shown are
subject to change depending on traffic or
variations in opening hours at the
attractions.
The price includes:
* Minibus transfers to and from your Paris
accommodation
* Services of our driver/guide
* Priority admission to the three châteaux
* Lunch