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In Tours, castles are at the bottom of the garden

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Goût de Tours magazine

For a truly memorable stay in Touraine, see our irresistible offers in order to discover, explore and savour the region! Châteaux, gardens, art, vineyards and gastronomy, you'll find the essence of your stay here…

Visit the castles of the Loire

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Looking for ideas and good addresses for a day, a weekend or a stay in Tours? Find your inspiration here!

48h with the City Pass

In Tours, the castles are at the bottom of the garden

3 days in Tours and in Touraine

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Duration : 1h30 - Price : 10€ The Tours Loire Valley Tourist Office and the city of Tours offer a thematic tour of the Old Town of Tours, led by a guide. A guided tour of the emblematic Vieux Tours district around Place Plumereau, led by an expert guide.  Medieval half-timbered and stone houses stand side by side with exceptional townhouses. These mansions bear witness to the prosperity of this part of town, which grew up around a huge collegiate church dedicated to Saint Martin. Once home to the saint's body, it was the center of one of the oldest pilgrimages in Christendom. This tour has been awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire label.

Enjoy the destination's must-see attractions: Castle and Gardens of Villandry, Castle of Azay-le-Rideau, Castle of Tours, Centre of Contemporary Creation Olivier Debré, Fine Arts Museum, « Compagnonnage » Museum, Natural History Museum, Saint-Cosme Priory, Psalette Cloister and a guided tour of Tours. This 48h Pass also includes bike hire, access to the little tourist train (available end of March 2024) and exclusive benefits from our partners (e.g. €3 discount per player with Escape Yourself, 10% discount in the pub « Au temps des Rois »)

Discover the Loire Valley and visit its 2 most prestigious castles in one great day: impressive Château de Chambord and stunning Château de Chenonceau. Learn about the intimate little secrets of the French Kings who once lived there. Enjoy off-the-crowd panoramic views thanks to your local guide, benefit from wealth of thrilling genuine details and funny anecdotes and make the most of this exciting day. Program: 9.30am: Departure from Tours. Meet your friendly guide in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours (just in front of the train station). Everybody's here? Let’s start the day! 9:30am: Start in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours, and get into our minivan, off to Chenonceau! Next step is Château de Chenonceau! On the way, get a good look at lovely privately owned châteaux but also other must-see castles of Loire Valley such as: Cheverny, Chaumont, Amboise, Montrichard... Chenonceau: this is the most visited historical monument in France after Château de Versailles. Admire this stunning chateau and its unique gallery, built on a bridge across the Cher River. With your guide, stroll through the gorgeously-manicured gardens à la Française named after the famous ladies who lived there: "Catherine de Médicis" and "Diane de Poitiers". Once inside, take your time to appreciate the refined architecture and feminine influence that prevails in each room of this renowned chateau, all decorated with beautiful antiques and the most divine fresh flower arrangements. The kitchens, the Queen bedroom, the Gallery... your tour guide will show you all the beautiful rooms of this incredible place. Lunch will take place off the beaten path. You will enjoy a typical French lunch in a lovely private château of Loire Valley, built by Jean le Breton! Start with the visit of this unique familly Château, meet the family and discover all the authentic rooms and lovely surroundings of this haven of piece. After the visit, hosted by the French Countess who lives there permanently, indulge in the nice and cozy atmosphere with tasty food and local Loire Valley wine. This experience will make you feel like the owner of the place! More than a chateau, this work of art is a glorious historical place that will take you to the heart of the Loire Valley and the Renaissance era. Your guide will make this trip back in time a fun and captivating experience. He will tell you everything about the history of the castle, built by the famous King François 1er. Unforgettable! Once inside, your guide will select for you the most emblematic rooms to visit: the double helix staircase, the chapel, the terrace...He will also share with you memorable anecdotes and point at hidden details of interest and breathtaking views of the château. So get ready to travel back in time of French Renaissance! After this exceptional visit, your tour-guide will advise you some spots to get a impressive view of the chateau. A spectacular day you will never forget. 5.30pm: Back to the Tourist Office in Tours

Duration : 45mn - Price : from 50 € Come aboard a tuk-tuk for an original tour of the city of Tours! For 45 minutes, Pascal will be delighted to take you to discover the city's most emblematic sites: the old town of Tours, Les Halles, the Quartier des Arts, the Basilica Saint-Martin and, of course, the riverside of the Loire.

Events calendar

Here, events come and go and none is alike other ! The metropolis know how to cultivate its art of living. Numbers of events from traditionnal and old music, to gastronomy or sport are organized throughtout all seasons. This eclectic program also allows to discover some nice historic, or out the ordinary, places.

Tours Loire Valley Tourist Office & Convention Bureau

How to come? What weather in Tours? Where to leave my luggage? Find all practical information here.

The Tourist Office is located: 78-82 Rue Bernard Palissy, 37000 Tours.

Monday to Saturday: 8.30am to 7pm Sundays and public holidays: 9.30am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 5pm

For any information, please reach our team +33(0)2 47 70 37 37

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Discover the best Loire Valley tours with authentic local guides

Join our day trips from Tours, Amboise or Paris: English or French speaking semi-private, half or full day guided tours by minivan, by E-Bike or with your own car. Visit the must-see castles and experience the French art de vivre feeling like a King! Immerse yourself in the royal splendor of the Loire Valley castles and savor local gastronomy and wines !

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Chambord, Chenonceau & lunch at a chateau - Full-day

Discover the Loire Valley and visit its 2 most prestigious castles in one great day: impressive Château de Chambord and stunning Château de Chenonceau. Learn about the intimate little secrets of the French Kings who once lived there. Enjoy off-the-crowd panoramic views thanks to your local guide, benefit from wealth of thrilling genuine details and funny anecdotes and make the most of this exciting day. One of the highlights will definitely be a restful lunch away from tourist groups in a beautiful privately-owned chateau still inhabited by the family.

Loire Valley wine tour to Vouvray - Afternoon

Explore the Loire Valley wine route and its vineyards, full of tradition and passion! Visit a local winery of the Vouvray Appellation, admire the wonderful vineyard landscapes and learn how to taste these elegant wines produced from one of the most well-known terroir of the Val de Loire area!

Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau & Vouvray wine tour - Full-day

Enjoy a complete discovery of Loire Valley with the visit of must-see Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau and Château de Villandry and its remarkable gardens. Benefit from your guide's thrilling historical anecdotes and feel part of these old days. In the afternoon, learn everything about Loire Valley wines by visiting a local winery of the Vouvray Appellation, well-known for its sparkling and white wines. A fun adventure you will always remember!

Villandry & Azay-le-Rideau châteaux - Morning

Enjoy the famous French Art de Vivre with this delightful morning including the visit of the elegant chateau of Azay-le-Rideau and the Chateau de Villandry and its unique gardens. An experience you will never forget ! Your passionate guide will stay with you all along sharing many anecdotes that will make you feel part of those royal days.

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By minivan or by e-bike, explore the best of the Loire Valley region with our friendly and professional local guides.

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Couples, groups of friends, families. These tours are made for you. Jump in our van for a private and memorable day.

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We had a wonderful day touring Chenonceau and Chambord with our guide Marion! She had lots of great information about each chateau and was very friendly. The lunch was also fantastic, an original French meal.

Trip Advisor

WOW! This tour is amazing. We had a lovely combination of guided tours and plenty of free time to explore the grounds of the chateaus that we visited. The lunch was exquisite and superb by every measure - local food and wine in a private chateau dining room prepared to perfection

Amazing well organized tour!! Our tour guide Merrion was awesome and we learned so many interesting stories and facts about the castles history - we were engaged the whole time! Lunch at a smaller family chateau was a great inclusion and had enough time to explore the chateau’s! Highly recommend this tour!!

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Visit Tours, the gateway city of the Loire Valley

Home › Discover › Tours and the finest cities in Touraine › Visit Tours, the gateway city of the Loire Valley

Beautiful, vibrant and lively, Tours is a pretty stopping point during a couple of days in the middle of the Loire Valley Chateaux . Tour its historic quarters with their half-timbered houses, the bustling Place Plumereau and Saint-Gatien Cathedral, as well as the new Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre.

On sunny days, the star of Tours is the River Loire! The now famous ‘Tours-sur-Loire’ guinguette  and the Tours beach extend the city limits to the banks of the river. Numerous activities are offered.

Tours is packed with gourmet bistros featuring fresh, locally sourced produce on their menus. You should taste the nougat of Tours , the potted rillettes of Tours, the saffron , or the "poires tapées" (dried pears). Genuinely unique!

Tours – A tale of two cities

In a perfect location, Tours is the great capital of the Loire Valley, a Unesco world heritage site, but it is far more than just a gateway to the Loire Chateaux. Indeed, Tours delights in being charming and doesn’t think twice about playing a double game in order to do so.

Visit Tours and its architecture full of history

First of all, there is its historical heritage. The birthplace of  Balzac   (more than fifty books to read) is proud of its old quarters , which take visitors on a wonderful journey back in time in France. Explore the narrow cobbled streets,  half-timbered french houses and the stone façade of the monumental  Saint-Gatien Cathedral , which give the city a charming medieval air.

The architecture of the Fine Arts Museum , the Hotel Gouïn  (Renaissance architecture),  Tours castle , the ‘la Psalette’ cloister and the Saint Martin Basilica (near the “tour Charlemagne” and the “tour de l’horloge”) is of great interest! You will enjoy those monuments through a illuminated walking experience , and of course with a guided tour proposed by the tourist office.

Tours - Saint-Gatien Cathedral

Château de Tours - Illuminated walking experience

Tours, a beautiful city in France

In addition to the built heritage, large green spaces perfectly enhance the french city. Designed in the 19th century and classified as a remarkable garden, the Prebendes d’Oe garden is a perfect example, as is the botanic garden and the Gloriette park . Attached to the latter, the practice of La Gloriette Golf may allow you to make your first swing!

You have a few days ahead of you?   Renting a bike , you will cycle from Tours to :

• the St Cosme priory (4km / 14 min),
• the Montbazon fortress (15km / 56 min),
• Vouvray wineries ( Château Gaudrelle , Vigneau-Chevreau …).
• the gardens of Villandry (19km / 1h03),
• the Valmer gardens (19km / 1h06).

The gardens of Villandry castle. France

It is also very pleasant to go shopping, to have a look at the exhibitions at the new  Olivier Debré Contemporary Creation Centre and at the Arts district , to relax at the summer ‘guinguette’, situated along the banks of the Loire River from which you can see the traditional boats (belonging to the Boutavant association ). You may also like to go on board for a fifty minute cruise on the river !

Tours - Boutavant boat on the River Loire

Visit Tours - Olivier Debré Contemporary Creation Centre

For night owls , a stopover in Tours also gives them an opportunity to treat themselves to a show, an evening in one of the many bars and cafés in the Old Town or a front seat at the free sound and light show  projected onto the Fine Art Museum façade every evening in the summer.

Some more pictures of Tours:

The Plumereau square

The Art Deco American Memorial

The Monster of Xavier Veilhan

The Jean Jaurès Square, with the Tours City Hall.

Visit Tours in video

Tours is the ideal place to spend a night as it is situated close to the main Loire Valley chateaux, along the Loire by bike trail , along the GR3 pedestrian route and on the way to Santiago de Compostela !

Practical: Tours Val de Loire Tourist Office

Book tickets, guided tour, day trip, activities for groups: www.tours-tourisme.fr/en +033 (0)2 47 70 37 37

Visit Amboise and Chenonceau, jewels of the Renaissance

Find your accommodation, visit loches, town of art and history., visit chinon and azay-le-rideau, lands of sharing, discover beautiful villages, "the mag': inspirations and magical experiences", accommodation: find out what’s new.

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Loire Valley Tours & Trips

• Choose from 45 Loire Valley tours
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Christmas on the Loire (port-to-port cruise)

Cycle the loire valley, the loire valley, a royal legacy, loire cycle path: wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from tours to st-nazaire), loire guided-ebiketour | france: magnificent french castles | 8 days, loire valley cycle, cycle the loire - nevers to orléans, cycling the chateaux of the loire - upgraded, from the châteaux of chambord and chenonceau to the loire valley (7 destinations), andalusia guided-ebiketour | spain: andalusia at its best | 8 days.

“Amazing food and service, overall good value.” Linda Stubbings, traveled in December 2019

• River Cruise
• Christmas & New Year
• Experience a gala dinner on your final night
• Board our ship and meet the crew in Nantes
• Explore Nantes and the Castle of the Dukes

“Fabulous leaders and incredible route - pathways along the river or back country roads.” Maureen Jennings, traveled in June 2022

• Cycle through the Loire Valley's scenic routes
• Explore the grand Chateau de Chambord
• Visit the unique Chateau de Chenonceau

• Explore Saint Nazaire and Escal'Atlantic museum
• Board our ship and enjoy a welcome cocktail
• Celebrate with a gala dinner on your final night

• Self-Guided Cycling
• Visit vintners in Savennières for wine tasting
• Enjoy panoramic views from Saumur palace
• Cycle through vineyards and medieval villages

• Mountain Bike
• Accommodation in picturesque hotels
• Visits and entrance fees to the most famous chateaux of the Loire
• One of the most beautiful cycle tracks of France in the Loire Valley (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

“The cycle routes mainly along cycle paths and country roads were usually well marked and the route notes & overview maps provided helped me to find my way.” E Nikol, traveled in September 2014

• Cycle through Mesland vineyards to Chaumont
• Taste Vouvray wine at local vineyards
• Discover Chateau of Chambord's grandeur

“Bike was good. Hotels were good. First half of the route (Nevers to Sancerre) was good.” Trevor Mansfield, traveled in September 2022

• Explore historic Nevers and its Ducal Palace
• Tour medieval chateaux in Saint Brisson
• Taste Sancerre wine and Chavignol cheese

• Road Cycling
• Explore riverside towns and impressive chateaus
• Discover the furnished Chateau of Cheverny
• Visit Leonardo da Vinci's last home, Clos Luce

• Taste Muscadet wine in medieval Clisson
• Dine at Noces de Jeannette in Paris
• Tour the Saint-Nazaire shipyard

• Wine tasting
• Guided tours in the old towns of Tours and Saumur

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Visit Tours, a Historic City in the Loire Valley

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Loire Valley Food and Wine Cultural Heritage Sporting Activities Nature and Outdoor Activities Cities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023

Here, living is an art

Tours , the capital of Touraine , enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the prestigious region of the Loire châteaux . Crossed by two rivers, this charming Gallo-Roman town maintains its status as a timeless "Garden of France."

On foot, by train or bicycle, discover the famous district of "Old Tours" or stroll through the historic gardens of the city. On the terrace of a café, in medieval alleys or through its markets, you'll taste the "sweetness of Tours."

Traditional departure site for tours to major cultural attractions in the Loire Valley, Tours is also the home of the "live well and eat well" ideal, so dear to Rabelais.

What not to miss in this beautiful European city:

As a city of art and history, Tours has benefited from an active policy of restoring its old quarters during the 60s, which has allowed it to keep the Place Plumereau, one of the largest restored areas in Europe.

• The Museum of Compagnons: The heritage of Compagnons - the guilds of skilled craftsmen found nowhere else in the world!
• Place Plumereau and its half-timbered houses, medieval streets, the Châteauneuf neighborhood.
• The Cathedral of St. Gatien
• The Basilica of St. Martin
• Traditional markets
• The Vinci International Convention Center, designed by Jean Nouvel.
• The Prébendes d'Oé Garden
• Specialties: "Rillettes de Tours," "Nougat de Tours," Vouvray wines, and wines from Montlouis-sur-Loire

The "Tours" of events

• The Fêtes Musicales in Touraine: International Festival of Classical Music. In February, June and November.
• The Vocal Anthology: International Competition of Choral Singing at Pentecost.
• Tours on the Loire: Guinguette along the Loire, outdoor cinema, and shows. From mid-May to mid-September.
• Vitiloire: one hundred winegrowers give you a taste of the wines of the Loire. Early June.
• Garlic and Basil Fair: traditional gourmet feast. In July.
• 10 and 20 km Tours marathons. In September.
• The Paris-Tours: for over a hundred years, this famous bicycle race is held annually in October.

Visit Tours

• Led by guide-lecturers from Villes et Pays d'Art et d'Histoire , the Tours/Loire Valley Tourist Office offers a wide selection of general or themed guided tours: "Antique", "Renaissance", "Cathedral", "St. Martin", "Victor Laloux," and "Nocturne"
• Audio tours: Discover Tours at your leisure with our IPOD!
• The little train: Let yourself be carried through the old quarters of the city for a 50-minute guided tour. Easter to October.
• The carriage: You'll discover the streets of Tours to the rhythm of hooves pounding the pavements of the old town. In July and August.
• Visit Tours and its surroundings with the "Pass through Tours" passes available in several options at reasonable prices.

"This town is joyous, loving, fresh, flowery, and better-perfumed than any other city in the world ..." - (Balzac, born in Tours).

Getting to Tours

Tours is one of the major French cities, situated at the crossroads of central France and at the heart of European communication lines.

• Train: Take the train to the Gare de Tours Centre, or to the Gare de Saint-Pierre-des-Corps (with shuttle trains to Tours).
• International airport just outside Tours
• Freeways: A10 - A85 - A28
• TWITTER - Tours N' Loire (French)

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Loire Valley Wine Tour

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Top Loire Valley Tours

Our most popular private wine tours at a glance.

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Wine Tasting a la carte

Taste and discover a wide selection of the wines of the Loire Valley, one of the major wine-producing regions of France.

• Bourgueil Red
• Cheverny Red, white, rosé
• Chinon Red, white
• Cour-Cheverny White
• Montlouis-sur-Loire White, sparkling, sweet
• Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil Red
• Touraine Red, white, rosé, sparkling
• Touraine-Amboise Red, white, rosé
• Touraine-Azay-le-Rideau White
• Touraine-Chenonceaux Red, white
• Touraine-Noble-Joué Rosé
• Touraine Oisly White
• Valençay Red, white, rosé
• Vouvray White, sparkling, sweet
• Pouilly-Fumé White
• Quincy White
• Reuilly Red, white
• Sancerre Red, white

Discover the Loire Valley, its sights and tastes from €220

Exclusive, tailor-made and private guided tours for the discerning visitor.

Sightseeing tour booking

Aristocratic chateaux, classic and modern gardens, ancient churches, quaint villages, caves housing mushrooms, wine and people; not for nothing is the Loire Valley a UNESCO world heritage site. Let us show you some of the famous and lesser known treasures of the region.

Wine tour booking

Wine is at the heart of the Loire Valley and we have discovered many splendid vineyards, wineries and wine makers which we would love to share with you. We are on hand to explain the appellations and grape varieties of the wine areas, and to organise the tastings.

Tour guide booking

Travel professionals sometimes just need a guide to accompany their clients and help them get the best from the region. If you have organised transport and accommodation, we can handle the rest. Vineyards, castles, gardens and restaurants. Let us be your local experts.

Holiday cottage booking

Attached to our Loire Valley home are two holiday cottages, available for weekly rental. Ideally placed for exploring the region with a heated swimming pool waiting at the end of a busy day. The cottages date back to the 16thC but have been recently restored to a high standard.

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Some good reasons.

Loire Valley Wine Tour - your first choice for private tours of the Loire Valley

Premium tours

All our tours feature high quality vehicles and a personal guide. Tours are in English. Lunch and entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Happy Customers

Off the peg tours? Of course. Made to measure? No problem. Clients rate us highly on Trip Advisor because we try harder.

Helpful Support

We respond rapidly to your enquiries. We reply to emails promptly and courteously. Or you can contact us by telephone.

Get started with your Loire Valley Wine Tour

Booking a tour could hardly be easier. Just follow these simple steps and you could be visiting the region in the hands of an expert guide in the very near future.

• 1 Select your preferred tours
• 2 Select dates and options
• 3 Contact us to confirm availability
• 4 Pay your deposit and book

The 5 Best Loire Valley Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

Spanning a whopping 280 kilometres, the Loire Valley is a magestic UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates countless visitors every year.

While it is largely known for its delicious wines, its gorgeous gardens and charming villages make for a fantasy-like atmosphere worth visiting more than once.

No matter what your interests are, we’re sure you’ll find something to love about the area. If you’re in Paris, we highly recommend checking out one of the top Loire Valley tours that will show you all the best places to visit.

Be sure to see our reviews of Day Trips to Normandy , Louvre Guided Tours and Paris Catacombs Tours .

Best Loire Valley Day Trips From Paris

Quick answer: the 5 best rated loire valley day tours for 2024.

• Best Small Group Tour : Loire Valley 3 Best Castles & Wine Tasting Small-Group Day Trip
• Best Private Tour : Loire Valley Castles VIP Private Tour: Chambord, Chenonceaux, Amboise
• Best Budget Tour : Loire Valley Chambord & Chenonceau Castles Day Trip with Wine Tasting
• Best Full Day Tour : Loire Valley Castles Day Trip with Chenonceau and Chambord from Paris
• Best Tour With Lunch : Loire Valley Day Tour Chambord and Chenonceau plus Lunch at a Private Castle

Loire Valley Tours From Paris Reviews

1. best small group tour: loire valley 3 best castles & wine tasting small-group day trip from paris.

• Duration: 12 hours
• Departure:  La Flamme, 6 Av. de Wagram, 75008 Paris
• Departure Time: 7:00 AM
• Includes: Driver/guide, entrance tickets into Chambord Castle, entrance tickets into Chenonceau Castle, entrance tickets into Amboise Castle, fuel, parking fees, highway toll fees, transport by luxury van with air conditioning, wine tasting of 3 different French wines or 1 full glass of 1 French wine

Cracking things off, we bring you the Loire Valley 3 Best Castles & Wine Tasting Small-Group Day Trip from Paris Tour . If you’re looking for a way to escape the city for a day and explore serene, fairytale-like scenery, you’re in for a real treat.

This tour provides all-day adventure where you’ll get to see everything from the largest chateau in the valley to the colorful gardens.

Ideal for small groups of 8 people of less, get ready for a day of personalized attention and seeing hidden gems larger groups aren’t able to. Lasting 12 hours long, the professional guides make sure everything goes on without a hitch.

You’ll meet at La Flamme in Paris at 7am and hope on board your private, luxury transportation. Your first stop will be at Chateau de Chambord, which is the largest in the entire Loire Valley.

With countless spires and a breathtaking double-helix staircase, you’re sure to enjoy walking around and taking some photos of this incredible architecture. Here, you’ll learn about Chambord and have time to walk around on your own.

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Chateau de Chenonceau or “the Ladies’ Chateau” as it’s called due to its history of being run by powerful women, offers a uniquely feminine touch.

Learn all about its unique history before heading to Chateau Royal d’Amboise – one of the oldest castles in the country. With magnificent views overlooking the wild Loire River, you’ll learn about its equally-wild history.

Head over to the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, where you’ll see the tomb of the legendary Italian artist, Leonardo Da Vinci. He actually spent the last years of his life serving the French King, and his architectural prowess was crucial to the Renaissance Chateau here.

Then, head down to the town of Amboise, with its charming homes and winding walkways. Here, take a break for a delicious lunch, with plenty of local restaurants and bakeries to enjoy.

After refueling, you’ll then see Place Michel Debre where you’ll visit a little wine vendor where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting of 3 different local wines.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other paris experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: loire valley castles vip private tour: chambord, chenonceaux, amboise.

• Duration: 13 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Includes: Private, air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pick-up and drop-off, fees and taxes, local expert art historian guide

We know that the Loire Valley is impressive, no matter what kind of tour you take. However, a lot of the larger tours involve standing around or missing out on certain aspects due to the quantity of people in the group. If you want to make the most of your time there, we highly recommend checking out the Loire Valley Castles VIP Private Tour: Chambord, Chenonceaux, Amboise .

This tour is VIP in every way, starting out with a convenient hotel pickup bright and early in the morning. All you have to do is make sure you’re down in the lobby on time, and be ready to board your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle!

Bring some nice walking shoes as you’ll be doing plenty of exploring of the grounds and inside the castles. Rather than a big coach, you’ll have a personal chauffeur in a car take you to each stop. Many of these stops aren’t possible in vans, so this is ideal!

The first stop of the day will be the Chateau Royal d’Amboise. This castle is most well-known for being the final resting place of da Vinci. However, many famous – if not notorious – French royals lived here throughout the 15 th through 19 th centuries.

With a local expert art historian to guide you, there’s no question you’ll learn all the ins and outs about this area throughout the centuries. Take a moment at Clos Lucé, known as the former official residence of da Vinci, and is a wonderful example of Renaissance art using brick and local tufa stone.

Next is the Chateau de Chenonceau, famous for bridging the Cher River. This chateau is the most famous in the valley, representing an architectural transition from Gothic to Renaissance.

It really looks like something out of a fairytale, with elaborate details and equally as detailed grounds. Chateau de Chambord is the next stop where you’ll take a tour of the grounds and inside, learning about the country’s 16 th -century architectural revolution.

Search For Paris Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best budget tour: loire valley chambord & chenonceau castles day trip with wine tasting from paris.

• Departure: 1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
• Departure Time: 7:30 AM
• Includes: English-speaking tour guide, wine tasting in Château de Chenonceau, entrance ticket to Chambord and Chenonceau Castles, return transportation in an air-conditioned coach, free time in the town of Blois

Next, we bring you a slightly longer tour: the 13-hour Loire Valley Chambord & Chenonceau Castles Day Trip with Wine Tasting from Paris . If you love castles and stunning architecture, you’ll love this one as well.

Perfectly balancing tour time with free time, you’ll learn a lot but have the freedom to focus on what interests you most, as well. Your day will start off with you meeting your guide and the rest of your group outside the Paris Catacombs.

It’s time to take a day off from the hustle-and-bustle of the thriving capital and into the beautiful Loire Valley. You’ll board a private, air-conditioned coach with plenty of room and large windows for optimal viewing.

Your first stop will be Chateau de Chambord with this tour as well. Many will already feel familiar with the architecture, given that the turrets were the inspiration for the Beauty and the Beast Castle! Learn all about the architecture’s history, along with a staircase supposedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

Now it’s time to head to Blois, where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch in one of the many delicious restaurants around the fascinating Square Louis XII. We highly recommend checking out the Royal Castle of Blois, showing off various types of gorgeous architecture.

After refueling, head on over to the classy Chateau de Chenonceau, where you’ll be able to not only explore around the many rooms and stone carvings but enjoy a comprehensive wine tasting.

The area is known for its white wines, and you’ll get to enjoy these while checking out the main hall that spans the nearby river Cher.

If you’d like, you can elect to partake in an additional wine tasting down in the chateau’s vaulted wine cellar!

4. Best Full Day Tour: Loire Valley Castles Day Trip with Chenonceau and Chambord from Paris

• Duration: 12.5 hours
• Departure: 20 Pl. des Vins de France, 75012 Paris
• Departure Time: 7:00 am
• Includes:  Round trip by luxury coach from Paris with licensed guide (if option selected), round trip by luxury coach from Paris with audio guide (if option selected), entrance to 3 Loire Valley castles: Chambord, Chenonceau and Cheverny

One of the most stressful things about traveling is dealing with the crowds and waiting around. What if we told you that you could skip all of that and head straight to the good stuff? You can do just that with the Loire Valley Castles Day Trip with Chenonceau and Chambord from Paris tour !

This 12.5-hour tour may last the entire day, but the way it’s planned out makes it perfect for the entire family – even kids! With round-trip transportation by a spacious, luxury coach, it’s very comfortable and easy to get around.

Start out first-thing in the morning by meeting your guide, and you’re off to the first stop on the tour! Thanks to the skip-the-line tickets, once you get to Chateau de Chambord, you’ll all head straight inside without the wait.

Your guide will offer an educational commentary on the royals that lived there, French aristocracy gossip, and the fascinating architecture. You’ll have plenty of time to roam around on your own, as well, taking photos and videos of one of the most famous castles in the world.

While the castle’s façade and estate are certainly impressive, when you come across the infamous double-helix staircase at the Domaine National de Chambord, you’ll become enamored like everyone else. It makes sense, then, that Leonardo da Vinci is rumored to be the brains behind the design!

The Chateau de Chenonceau is another favorite – known as the “ladies’ castle” due to the heavy female influence of those who lived and ruled here. Constructed in the early 1500s, it was the sight of many royal scandals, festivities, and in the 19 th -century, converted into a military hospital.

Learn about and enjoy some fine wine and French royal history before heading to Chateau de Cheverny.

This grandiose estate has been in the same family for over an impressive 6 centuries, originally buit by the Hurault family in the early 1600s. Learn all about the Cheverny wines, and try their delicious reds and whites.

5. Best Tour With Lunch: Loire Valley Day Tour Chambord and Chenonceau plus Lunch at a Private Castle

• Duration: 9 hours
• Departure Time: n/a
• Includes:  Lunch, driver/guide, transport by air-conditioned minivan, snacks

Last but certainly not least, we bring you the Loire Valley Day Tour Chambord and Chenonceau plus Lunch at a Private Castle ! If the other tours on our guide look enticing but you want something slightly shorter, check this one out.

Clocking in at 9 hours, it gives you plenty of time to learn and explore this picturesque area. There are two pickup spots available to make it easy to access, no matter where you are located in Paris.

However, the guides are very understanding and try to make things as easy as possible for everyone. You’ll board your air-conditioned coach with your guide/driver who will offer interesting commentary as you cruise through the beautiful valley.

Your first stop along the way will be to the Chateau de Chenonceau, which you’ve learned quite a bit about already!

The Renaissance architecture is captivating, no matter who you are. Sitting right over the Cher river, it’s unlike any other castle we’ve seen and is no wonder why it’s the most photographed in all of France.

Your guide will ensure you see the little nooks-and-crannies – the best views from spots most tourists don’t get to see. This guide is definitely one to remember, offering funny stories and vast knowledge of the area.

Make a stop in town to enjoy a relaxing lunch. You can go off on your own or stay with your group to chat about what you’ve seen so far before heading over to Chateau de Villesavin. This family-owned chateau also gives you the option of a traditional French lunch so the group can decide.

Don’t forget the Chateau de Chambord, where you’ll notice the clear influence of King Louis XIV, drawing many parallels to the Palace of Versailles.

You’ll be taken on a journey by a passionate local guide who will paint a picture – or movie, really – of what took place here. Then, follow it up with a tasty French aperitif.

Your Guide For Day Trips to the Loire Valley From Paris

Five must see destinations in the loire valley.

• Château de Chambord : This fairy-tale like castle is a must see for anyone visiting the Loire Valley. It was built for King Francis I, Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of design and engineering that has over 400 rooms. It has a double helix staircase with a stunning rooftop terrace that has panoramic views of the surrounding forest.
• Clos Lucé : Step inside the home of the genius Leonardo da Vinci where he lived and worked during his final years. This 15th-century chateau is a glimpse into the life and work of one of world’s greatest inventors and artists. Explore the gardens and visit the museum which houses a collection of models and drawings of da Vinci’s inventions.
• Chenonceau : Known as the “Château des Dames” for its association with a series of powerful women who owned and inhabited it over the centuries. Chenonceau is one of the most stunning chateaux in the region. Built on a bridge over the River Cher it boasts a unique and elegant design, beautiful gardens plus an impressive art collection.
• Villandry : With its magnificent gardens and beautifully restored Renaissance architecture, Villandry is a true gem of the Loire Valley. The chateau’s extensive gardens are a true feast for the senses that features terraces, fountains and an array of colorful flowers and plants arranged in intricate patterns.
• Château d’Azay-le-Rideau : This charming castle, set on the banks of the Indre River is a perfect example of French Renaissance architecture. Its graceful design and tranquil setting make it a peaceful retreat.

One Day Itinerary For the Loire Valley From Paris

It can be challenging if you’re coming from Paris. We would recommend you spend the night in Amboise and start your journey in the heart of the region. The Loire Valley is two hours southwest of Paris by car so it will take some planning to see the highlights in one day.

A guided tour will take you from Paris to some of the Loire Valley’s most popular destinations. Most tour companies have day trips that include stops at several chateaux, such as Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise, as well as some of the region’s picturesque towns and villages. We highlight our favorites above!

If you want go on your own here is a sample itinerary that takes you to some of the area’s most beautiful and significant sites.

9:00am : Start your day in the picturesque town of Amboise where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the many charming cafes lining the streets. Be sure to try some of the local pastries such as croissants or pain au chocolate for an authentic taste of France.

10:00am : Head to the nearby Château Royal d’Amboise which is a stunning castle that was once the home of French kings. Walk through the castle and admire the incredible views of the Loire River from its terrace.

11:30am : From Amboise, take a short drive to the Château de Chenonceau that is one of the most beautiful and iconic chateaux in the region. With its unique location spanning across the River Cher, this chateau is a true architectural masterpiece.

1:00pm : It’s time for lunch! Check out one of the many restaurants in the area for a traditional French meal. Be sure to try some of the region’s famous wines such as Sancerre or Chinon to accompany your meal.

2:30pm : After lunch, head to the Château de Villandry which is known for its impressive Renaissance gardens. Take a walk through the gardens that has fountains, terraces and a wide variety of colorful flowers. The chateau is worth exploring with its beautiful architecture and history.

4:00pm : Finally, head to the nearby town of Tours, known for its charming streets and vibrant cultural scene. Take a walk through the historic center of the town, and explore the many shops, galleries and cafes that line the streets. Don’t forget to see the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Gatien which is a beautiful Gothic cathedral that is a true masterpiece of French architecture.

6:00pm : Head back to Amboise for dinner at one of the many restaurants. Enjoy some of the local specialties such as seafood or cheese from the nearby Loire Valley. Then head back to Paris to rest after an amazing whirlwind tour of the Loire Valley!

Tour Guides

The 3 Best Castles & Wine Tasting Small-Group Day Trip is our Editors Choice for the best Loire Valley tour from Paris

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

How to Plan the Perfect Loire Valley Itinerary

Article written by Elisa This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

About the Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley is the region around the Loire River’s middle stretch in Central France. Comprising about 800 km2, this is France’s most extensive area ever to be included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

The Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful destinations in France, a delicate blend of nature, history, and French elegant art-de-vivre . Here, you can enjoy vibrant medieval towns, fairytale castles, stunning gardens, delicious food, and some of France’s best wines.

There is such a variety of stunning places to see in the Loire Valley that it is difficult to choose only a few of them!

Do you plan on visiting the Loire Valley, France? This Loire Valley Trip Planner is here to help you plan the perfect Loire Valley itinerary. Read what to do in the Loire Valley, the best time to go, itinerary suggestions, and our best tips.

Is Loire Valley worth visiting? The Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful regions of France, which perfectly combines nature, history, and French art-de-vivre.

Table of Contents:

• Best Time to Visit the Loire Valley
• How Many Days in the Loire Valley?

How to Visit Loire Valley

Defining the perfect loire valley itinerary, best cities in the loire valley.

• Stay in One of the Château hotels in the Loire Valley

Best Châteaux of the Loire Valley to Visit

Best medieval towns in the loire valley.

• Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley
• Other Fun Things to Do in the Loire Valley

Best Time to Visit Loire Valley

The Loire Valley sits right in the center of France, dividing north and south, so it gets relatively hot in summer (around 25°C in July) and cold in winter (around 7°C in January).

The best time to visit Loire Valley to have good weather is from April to October. Spring is a great time to visit the chateaux’s gardens, all in full bloom.

The best seasons for outdoor activities are spring and autumn. The shoulder seasons in the Loire Valley are perfect for walking and cycling.

The months of July and August see the crowds in the Loire Valley, especially around the main sites. For the best accommodation and prices, it will be key to book well in advance. Also, we recommend buying skip-the-line tickets online in advance for the main Châteaux of the Loire Valley.

The season to avoid for a Loire Valley trip is winter. The winter months see rain and cooler temperatures, and some châteaux may be closed.

How Many Days in Loire Valley

The Loire Valley has so many things to see and do that you could spend all your French holiday in this region.

To get the most out of the Loire Valley, we recommend a minimum of 3 full days, but ideally 5-to 6 days. If you spend 5 to 6 days in the Loire Valley, you will have time to visit a couple of towns and cities, explore some of the best Châteaux of the Loire Valley, wine tasting and shopping, and perhaps a relaxing boat trip.

Loire Valley tours from Paris are also popular amongst people with tight schedules and they are perfectly planned to see a bit of everything.

1. Loire Valley Tour from Paris

Thanks to its proximity to the French capital, the Loire Valley is one of the most popular day trips from Paris .

There are many Loire Valley tours with an expert guide worth considering, but you can also book a customized Loire Valley day tour with the places you like.

Most of the Loire Valley tours are focused around the main Châteaux and towns. If you are more interested in vineyards than stones, check out this Loire Valley wine tour from Paris .

Have a look at this article on how to plan a day trip to the Loire Valley from Paris (self-guided or with a guided tour) and get the most out of your day in the Loire Valley!

2. Take a Loire Valley Road Trip

For extended trips to the Loire Valley, we recommend taking a road trip. A French self-drive holiday will allow you to visit the main sites and also other stunning châteaux and medieval towns, which are more difficult to reach by public transportation.

If you need some inspiration to craft your itinerary, have a look at this 5-day Loire Valley road trip . You will also find this road trip in our France by Car e-book , complete with the best places to eat and sleep for each day and our recommendations on customizing this driving holiday for shorter or longer trips.

If you don’t have a car in France, we recommend booking one with  Discover Cars . This site is great because it takes all major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and more, and compares prices for you. If this is your first time driving in France, check out our best  tips for renting a car in France .

If you land at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), you can pick up your rental car at the airport and start your Loire Valley road trip from there. The drive from CDG Airport to Orléans takes less than 2 hours (200 km) – Click here to rent a car at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

If you plan to visit Paris before heading to the Loire Valley, you can take a train from Paris to Tours, Blois, or Orléans and then pick up your rental car in one of these cities.

• Rent a car in Orléans
• Rent your Car in Tours
• Rent your Car in Blois

3. Loire Valley by Train

Cities and towns like Tours, Beaugency, Orléans, Blois, and Amboise are easy to reach by train. Here’s a list of train distances and times from Paris for reference:

• Train Paris – Tours : 1h 12 min (fast train)
• Train Paris – Orléans : 1h 52 min (fast train)
• Train Paris – Blois : 1,5-2hrs (direct or via Orléans)
• Train Paris – Amboise : 2-2,5hrs (direct or via Orléans)

Thanks to the Train Loire à Vélo (Train Loire by Bike) system, you can board trains on the Interloire line with your bicycle, from mid-June to mid-September. The service is free and has dedicated personnel to take care of your bike from the moment you board to when you get it back when you get off.

This train is great for La Loire à Vélo and the Itinéraire Vélocéan bike routes and allows you to easily skip stages or return to your point of departure.

The Loire Valley is more than fairytale castles. The region is also known for its vibrant cities, medieval towns, and natural wonders, so the perfect itinerary Loire Valley combines a little bit of all these things.

If you visit the Loire Valley for the first time, you may want to stick to the main sites. However, the most memorable Loire Valley trip usually begins when you leave the beaten path.

So what should include the perfect Loire Valley itinerary?

• One of the Loire Valley’s main cities
• One or two of the Loire Valley’s medieval towns
• Two of the most popular Châteaux of the Loire Valley
• One of the Châteaux off the main tourist track
• A stay in one of the stunning château-hotels in the Loire Valley
• A Loire Valley wine tour with tastings
• One or two outdoor activities

The list of things to do in the Loire Valley can be longer or shorter depending on the duration of your holiday. For example, for a Loire Valley 3-day itinerary , stay in one of the cities mentioned below. From there, visit a medieval village, one or two top castles, and take a wine tour. For a Loire Valley 5-day itinerary or longer, add at least one night in one of the stunning château-hotels nearby.

The Loire Valley’s main cities are a good place to put down your suitcases for a couple of days. Enjoy the city’s atmosphere and main sights and explore the rest of the Loire Valley on day trips. Here are the cities in the Loire Valle not to miss:

1. Orléans

Orléans is the capital of the Centre-Val-de Loire region . Orléans is famous as the city of  Jeanne d’Arc , a French heroine who, on the 8th of May 1429, played a decisive role in the town’s liberation from the occupying English.  

Over recent years, this dynamic city has engaged in major conservation projects to reveal all its former splendor. Orléans is a good base to explore the medieval towns of Beaugency, Meung-sur-Loire, and the castles of Chambord and Cheverny.

Blois  is a beautiful city with remarkable architectural and cultural heritage. Its Old Town is very compact, and you can easily explore it on foot. In Blois, don’t miss visiting the  Château de Blois , the Loire’s finest in-town château and home to seven French Kings!

Blois is a good base to explore the medieval town of Beaugency, the city of Amboise with its Royal Castle and the Clos de Lucé, and the castles of Chambord, Cheverny, Chaumont sur Loire, and Chenonceau.

Tours is a historic city with a rich heritage. Tours was the capital of the French kingdom, even if for a short time. It is also a student city, with a lively city center populated by many restaurants and bars that pop up their terraces outside as soon as the beautiful days arrive. 

Tours is an excellent base to explore the medieval towns of Chinon, and Langeais, the city of Amboise with its Royal Castle and the Clos de Lucé, and the castles of Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, and Villandry.

Sitting on the River Loire banks, in the region of Pays-de-la-Loire, the city of  Saumur  has a pretty medieval Old Town to explore crowned by a fairytale medieval castle and plenty to see and do.

Saumur is a good base to explore the medieval towns of Chinon and Langeais, the city of Angers with its imposing medieval castle, the magnificent Abbey of Fontevraud – the burial place of the Plantagenets in France – and the castles of Azay-le-Rideau, and Villandry.

Stay in One of the Château Hotels in the Loire Valley

For a total Loire Valley experience, stay a couple of nights in one of the wonderful château hotels in the Loire Valley.

Many Châteaux of the Loire Valley have found new lives as château hotels and now offer accommodation with discerning five-star service that will treat you like a royal, if only just for the night. Explore the best Castles of the Loire Valley during the day, and choose your particular château to rest your head at night.

Click here for the best chateau-hotels in the Loire Valley . Other château hotels in the Loire Valley worth considering are:

• Château de Noizay , near Amboise
• Domaine des Hauts de Loire , near Chaumont-sur-Loire
• Château d’Artigny  near Tours
• Château de Beauvois , near Villandry
• Château de Chissay , near Château de Chenonceau
• Château de la Menaudière , near Château de Chenonceau
• Château de Gizeux , near Tours
• Château de Marçay , near Chinon
• Château de Troussail , in Cheverny
• Château Belmont , in Tours
• Les Sources de Cheverny , in Cheverny
• Château de Perreux , near Amboise
• Château des Arpentis , near Amboise
• Château de Rochecotte , near Villandry, Rigny-Ussé and Chinon
• Château de Pray , near Amboise

In the Loire Valley, you will find some of the most beautiful French castles to visit . Most of the Châteaux of the Loire Valley were built during the Renaissance, so they are very different from the Château de Versailles and other  castles near Paris .

As there are several hundred châteaux in the Loire Valley, with about 100 open to the public, it’s quite difficult to choose only a few for your itinerary!

If you don’t know what castles to visit, this list of the best Châteaux of the Loire Valley may help. For a perfect Loire Valley itinerary, we recommend visiting only 2-3 castles a day and completing the rest of the days with other activities.

If you plan on visiting the Loire Valley during the high season, we recommend buying skip-the-line tickets to the most popular castles online. Below we list the Loire Castles you will need advance tickets for and have added links to our favorite trusty providers for your convenience.

• Château de Chambord
• Château de Blois
• Château d’Amboise
• Château du Clos de Lucé (in Amboise)
• Château d’Azay-le-Rideau
• Château de Villandry
• Château de Chenonceau
• Château de Chaumont sur Loire
• Royal Fortress of Chinon

If you want to visit more than two Châteaux during your Loire Valley trip, consider one of the following Châteaux de la Loire Passes with skip-the-line access to save time and money:

• Leonardo da Vinci Loire Valley Pass – Château du Clos Lucé + Royal Château d’Amboise + Château de Chambord
• Loire Valley Châteaux Pass – Château de Chambord + Château de Chenonceau + Château de Blois (or Château d’Amboise, or Château du Clos Lucé)
• Touraine Château Pass – Château de Villandry + Château d’Azay-le-Rideau + Royal Fortress of Chinon

The Loire Valley is dotted with some of the most beautiful medieval towns in France and other picturesque villages accredited with labels like “Plus beaux villages de France” (Most beautiful villages in France) or “Petites Cités de Caractère” (Small towns of character). You will certainly be charmed by their tuffeau stone houses, flower-filled streets, and medieval remains!

Here’s the list of the best small towns and villages in the Loire Valley:

Along the banks of the Loire River

• Meung-sur-Loire

Along the banks of the Vienne and Indre Rivers

Along the banks of the Cher River

• Montrichard

Other Loire Valley Villages Worth Exploring

• St-Florent-le-Vieil
• Yèvre-le-Châte
• Candes-Saint-Martin
• Crissay-sur-Manse
• Trentemoult

Taste the Wines of the Loire Valley

If you like French wine , we recommend visiting one or two wineries in the Loire Valley Wine Region , where you’ll learn about the history of the land and get to taste several local wines, sometimes paired with delicious cheeses. 

The Loire Valley is one of the largest wine regions in France. If you are looking for lighter wines, the wines of Loire Valley are right up your alley. There are great selections of lighter red wines, delicate, fruity white wines, sweet roses, and a large production of sparkling wines (named Crémants de Loire).

The Loire Valley Wine Region has different production zones. The production area closest to the main Châteaux of the Loire Valley is Touraine , located around the city of Tours.

East of Tours, the production is focused on white wines from Chenin grape variety (e.g. AOC Vouvray). West of Tours, is the land of red wines from Cabernet Franc grape variety (e.g. AOC Chinon, AOC Borgueil). The AOC Touraine produces light wines in three colors (white, red, rosé).

All these Loire Valley wineries offer top-rated tours and tastings in French and English. A visit to these wineries is also a great opportunity to buy excellent wines directly from the producers. Book your visit online in advance.

• Domaine Thierry Cosme  – AOC Vouvray
• Domaine Les Pièrres d’Aurèle  – AOC Touraine
• Domaine Cahterine et Michel Langlois  – AOC Pouilly Fumé
• Domaine Jean-Marc et Mathieu Crochet  – AOC Sancerre

If you don’t have a car, here are some suggestions for wine day tours in the Loire Valley:

• Loire Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Private Driver (departs from Tours and Amboise)
• Loire Valley Wine Tour in Vouvray and Montlouis (departs from Tours)
• Caves Ambacia, Tour and Wine Tasting (in Amboise, no transportation)

Other Fun Things to Do in the Loire Valley, France

Of course, the Loire Valley offers much more than sightseeing. If you are visiting the Loire Valley for more than two or three days, consider one of these fun activities for adventure lovers:

1. See the Loire Valley Castles from Other Points of View

A visit to the interior of the Châteaux of the Loire Valley is a must, but it’s worth viewing the Castles from other perspectives for more magnificent views.

Take a boat trip to see the Château de Chenonceau from the water . The Canoë Company  offers different boat tours that are guided or self-guided, with different itineraries.

You can also admire the Châteaux de Chenonceau (and the Loire Valley) from a hot-air balloon with  France Montgolfières . Our trip with them over Fontainebleau was an incredible experience that we recommend. You can check our review  here .

Another unique way to explore the Châteaux of the Loire Valley is a micro flight with a professional pilot . Flights last from 30 min to 1,5 hrs, depending on the chosen option. The departure point is 40km from Tours, and you will be able to admire the Châteaux de Chenonceau, Loches, Chaumont, and Amboise.

2. La Loire à Vélo (The Loire Valley by Bike)

Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Loire Valley by following part of the famous Loire Valley bike route . We have covered different sections already, and it’s always a fun experience!

3. Taste the Regional Food

France is well-known for its great food, and the Loire Valley region is no exception. Here’s a list of some delicious specialties from the Loire Valley:

• Game Meat  – Wild boar (sanglier), deer (cerf), duck (canard), quail (caille), pigeon and rabbit (lapin)
• Fish  – Commonly served fish in this region include pike perch/zander (sandre), bream (brème), and eels (anguilles). They are usually served with a butter sauce (beurre blanc)
• Goat Cheese  (chèvre) such as Saint Maure, Pouligny-St-Pierre, Selles-sur-Cher and Crottin de Chavignol
• Rillettes  – usually made using pork, it’s a textured pâté and served spread on bread
• Touraine Rillons  (Rillons de Touraine) – slow-cooked pork belly cubes
• Caramelized Apple pie  (Tarte Tatin) – this famous dessert comes from this region, and more specifically from Sologne

4. Shopping

Most of the Châteaux open to visitors have impressive souvenir shops with interesting history books and medieval-related merchandise.

If you take a wine tour, don’t miss the opportunity to buy a couple of your favorite bottles. Prices are always cheaper than in the wine shops in the city.

Look for the local markets for regional produce, cheese, rillettes, and local sweets.

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About our Loire Valley France Tour

Come travel the back roads of Loire Valley, France during our 6 day/5 night, active, small group tour through  a region of France, called the “Centre” that offers an enriching opportunity to discover spectacular Medieval and Renaissance history through fun and factual, sizzling stories and to make many great memories meeting and spending time with our local friends.

One of our most historically rich tours, our guided, small group Loire Valley Castles and Gourmet Tour stands out as a true gem thanks to our long-standing presence in the Loire Valley region and our established local relationships with the region’s most highly recognized professionals. We have established personal relationships with our partners in the Loire Valley, who are not only renowned Michelin-star and Master Chefs, wine-makers, and specialty artisans but are also our personal friends. We cherish our local Loire Valley friends and the partnerships we’ve built over the years. Discover the Loire together with us through our eyes;  warmly welcomed to the homes, professional kitchens, and workshops of our friends. Step back in time each day of our Loire Valley Tour, enjoying racy stories of obsession, love, lust, and deception. You will truly feel like you are strolling through the pages of a storybook. Our specialist guides recount sketchy stories, the dirty dish, gossip of the kings, queens, and their courts, and factual events of French history in a unique and entertaining way.

We embark on daily visits, activities, and excursions that unveil magical and sometimes mythical and gruesome stories that, by the end of the tour, you will be wholly transformed and have a new appreciation for these historical periods and the characters who animated them.  Our years of connections and insider access to the region’s people, places, and events have earned us an exceptional reputation as authorities on everything cultural in the Loire Valley. We use our “savoir-faire” to ensure you experience the best of the region, its castles, history, and people in a fun and memorable small group environment. Through our combination of active, cultural, and personalized authentic local French experiences, you will feel like you just spent a week with a beautiful group of friends rather than having been on a tour.

WHAT MAKES OUR LOIRE VALLEY TOURS EXCEPTIONAL?

FRANCE IS OUR FOCUS AND SPECIALTY… We know France Best!

As France’s leading Loire Valley tour operator, in 2025, we will celebrate 31 years of leading small group tours in France. Our guided, small group Loire Valley Tours surpass guest expectations every time, thanks to our long-standing presence in the region and France and our established local relationships. Come meet and share convivial moments with our professional friends in the Loire Valley. We cherish our friendships, built on years of discovering France together, and delight in sharing these magical experiences with you.

• Our years of connections and insider access to people, places and events of the region have earned us a solid and excellent reputation as authorities on everything cultural in the Loire Valley.
• We use our “savoir faire” to ensure you experience the very best of the Loire Valley, its castles, history, and people in a fun and memorable small group environment.
• Through our combination of active, cultural, and personalized authentic French experiences, you will feel like you spent a week with a wonderful group of friends rather than having been on a tour.

Who are Off the Beaten Path, LLC Loire Valley France Tours designed for?

No experience necessary… Our Loire Valley France Tours are designed for active, English speaking travelers, and include a variety of engaging excursions from privately hosted cooking classes, wine tasting, artisan and castle tours, lunches, dinners, and cheese tasting to privately guided visits learning the juicy side of French history with our expert, professional award-winning tour guides. Enjoy leisure time daily, and five nights at one boutique hotel (NO HOTEL HOPPING), as well as sumptuous meals throughout. It’s vacation, and Off the Beaten Path’s Loire Valley France Tours are all about having fun, being active, and enjoying authentic experiences with our local friends!

• Enjoy guided tours and leisure time to discover the 4 BEST and most historically rich castles of the Loire Valley — Chenonceau Castle, Chambord Castle, Royal Blois Castle & Royal Amboise Castle.
• Participate in 2 private and fun, hands-on cooking classes that are more foodie experiences with our local French friends — one is a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Chef who works alongside Alain Ducasse, and formerly worked alongside Paul Bocuse and Joel Robuchon, and welcomes you to his family home in the French countryside, and our 2nd Chef is a Michelin rated chef, and welcomes you to his professional working kitchen.
• Indulge in a VIP winery tour & wine tasting with local friends at their family winery followed by a privately hosted lunch at their family home.
• Enjoy Classified Touraine Wines — No meal is complete in the Loire without tasting the fruits of the region, mainly those sumptuous grapes that local vintners transform into some of France’s best loved wines.
• Savor “Touraine” Foodie specialties during a hosted cocktail evening, and float on the Loire River at sunset amidst the castles sprinkled along the river banks with our friend Aurelien on his traditional flat-bottom boat.
• Learn about France’s famous cheeses with our chef friends.
• EMAIL US  or  CALL or message us at +1.717.683.2827 with your questions and requests, or  Book a Loire Valley Tour Now !
• Follow us on Facebook at France Off the Beaten Path Tours !  Follow our YouTube channel FrenchDish !

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A WORD FROM Our Guests:

Exceeded our expectations.

“This trip to the Loire Valley exceeded our expectations! Christy planned unique and interesting excursions and activities that highlighted the beauty of the area and provided in-depth background knowledge about the various chateaux we visited. The cooking classes with renowned chefs, held in their restaurants and homes, were never-to-be forgotten experiences, and the visit to the winery was a highlight. The hotel was delightful and charming, and staying in one location for the entire time was a treat. Every meal or cocktail hour was planned to highlight the delicious specialties of the region. Christy is extremely knowledgeable about the various places we visited and imparted that knowledge in an interesting and entertaining manner. She and Remi took great care to ensure that we were always comfortable and well-looked after. We could not have asked for a better trip!” — Ron Rose & Sharon Matsumoto (Have done Provence tour and Loire Valley tour)

This was my third trip in the same number of years

“This was my third trip in the same number of years with Christy and Off the Beaten Path. While on her trips you can tell how much effort there is on the off season to make every single week perfect. From the pick up at the train station to the teary goodbye at the airport, everything is perfectly planned and executed. The hotel in St. Remy is magical, and the tour guides Philippe and David are exceptional. If you are considering a trip with OTBP, go for it and come home with new friends, a love of Provence and a longing to return as soon as you can!” — Beth Bower (Has done Provence tour twice and Loire Valley tour)

The Best Tour Company!

“I have done two tours – Provence and Loire Valley – and I am already looking forward to booking another. The tours are all perfectly curated and Christy is a wealth of knowledge. She is so kind and takes all of your needs and wants into consideration. I cannot recommend Off the Beaten Path enough!” — Madison Carl (Has done Provence and Loire Valley tours)

“We did the Provence tour. 8/2019. I had taken the tour 2017 & this time my husband came with me. It was just as fabulous this time as it was in 2017. Restaurants, picnic, sights, wine, all of it just delightful, but the frosting on the cake is a the knowledge, insight, humor, & attention to detail from David & Philippe. To us, they make a great trip soooo much fun. (also, 3 of our neighbors joined us this tour). Don’t hesitate, take this tour & enjoy!!!!!” — Jim & Carol Dean (Carol has done Provence tour twice)

Returning to Provence with France Off the Beaten Path

“I wanted to return to Provence as soon as it was open. I had toured with Christy in Loire Valley in 2019 and knew I wanted to travel with her again. For the second time, everything was well organized, personal and definitely off the beaten path. Christy and Phillippe have a wealth of knowledge and are eager to share. The hotel was perfectly located in St Remy, the tours to the lavender and sunflower fields are my favorite memory. The lunches and dinners were like visiting friends. The boat tour in Cassis was another highlight. Even though I had visited Provence, this trip with France Off the Beaten Path brought a new appreciation for the area.” — Susan Gage (Has done Loire Valley tour, Provence tour, Champagne tour)

“We had an excellent tour with Christie and her crew in the Loire valley. We did things that only a true insider would have access to-dinner at a Michelin chefs house, helping/learning to cook at a highly rated restaurant in their kitchen. This was in addition to seeing the sights and touring the castles. A truly unique experience that is off the beaten path. We will use her again when going back to France.” — Karen Berner (Has done Loire Valley tour)

The ultimate travel agency in the Loire Valley

• Fully guided 5 days
• Fully guided 3 days
• Fully guided over 5 days
• Loire Valley Day Tour
• Semi guided Loire Valley Tour
• Full wine tour
• Day wine tour
• Gourmet tour
• Family tour
• Cycling tour
• Romantic tour
• Garden tour
• Hot air balloon ride
• Helicopter flight
• Canoe on the Loire river
• French cooking class
• The VIP services
• Normandy tour
• Versailles or Giverny
• And beyond ...
• Loire Valley Chateaux
• Loire Valley Wines
• Travel guide

Testimonials

• 2024 Brochure

Loire Valley Tours

Ask for your own trip

Each client is unique, each tour we build is special. Get inspired by the itineraries presented on the website and request your own tour, according to your time of arrival, length of stay and interests.

Contact RiverLoire

Loire Valley Day tour

Highlights: 2 or 3 castles, wine tasting, private boat ride, cooking lesson with a private chef, visit of a goat farm, etc.... in fact everything you want ! Date: All year along Transportation: Fully chauffeured private luxury car with your guide Accommodation: N/A  

MAKE AN ENQUIRY

Price & inclusions

You don’t have much time, but there is this one castle you have always wanted to see, this wine you have heard so much about, this market/church/restaurant you just need to check while in France…You don't have to worry, we will organise it for you :

We will pick you up at 9:15am in a luxury Audi or Mercedes , directly at your hotel or guest house so that you don't have  wait for others to join before departing, (Yes , we know, many visitors complains about the "small group" tours, where you must follow the pace and spend the day waiting for the others passengers, crowed in a mini van... but this is NOT the idea of a private tour with Riverloire :).

Here are some great ideas of the day tours of the Loire Valley we organize :

The icons of the Loire Valley tour :

Visit the Chateau of Chambord and Chenonce and why not add a wine tasting in a private cellar, the visit of a goat farm or a private boat ride on the river with a glass of Vouvray ?

The craddle of the Renaissance tour :

The Royal castle of Amboise and Clos lucé , the last residence of Leonardo da VInci. Our friendly guide will walk with you in the charling litlle town of Amboise for a a true discovery of the Loire Valley culture and history.

Medieval times, costumes and wines of the Loire Valley :

The castle of Villandry and its beautiful gardens, Langeai s and a tour int he wine country of Chinon and Bourgueil , some of the best wines of the Loire Valley !

A one day private cruise aboard a traditionnal boat privatized for you

The bargeman and the captain will be happy to welcome you onboard. You will discover the charm of the manual locks and you will have the opportunity to actually pass under the arches of the prestigious Chenonceau castle.

A private cooking Class with one of the best Chef of the Loire Valley. 

Yes, a Michelin star chef is a friend of us, and will share with you some of his secrets in the kitchen of a private manor ! While your "chef d'oeuvre" are baking, follow the landlord in his personnal and taste some great wine of the Loire Valley.Tell us about your secret dream and we will arrange a special day tour just for you, to make your Loire Valley dream comes true.

And many others  great sites of the Loire Valley, like Chateau de Blois, Chaumont, Cheverny or Azay le Rideau, or explore the wine areas of Vouvray , Montlouis , or Sancerre , or discover the Loire Valley from above with a hot air balloon ride or onboard an helicopter.

Tell us your dream, what you like and don't like. Claire, Josepha or Thierry will make you great suggestions for you memorable day tour in the Loire Valley. Challenge us !

This day tour is one of our guest favorites, as it gives an overall view of the region, but once again, all our tours are custom made and we will be happy to craft a special itinerary just for you.

Willing to discover some of the greatest Loire Valley Chateaux and learn more about the French Renaissance? Then this tour is designed for you!

A RiverLoire member will pick you up at Saint Pierre des Corps train station/ or your hotel and a short drive will lead you along the Cher River. You will start the day with a privately guided visit of the icon of the Loire Valley: the Chateau of Chenonceau.

Chenonceau is a supreme example of Renaissance architecture, set on its arches of stone, withstands the challenges of time. Inside, you will discover magnificent furniture. You will then appreciate the two lovely gardens , designed by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici.

Have lunch in Amboise at the foot of the castle and take a short walk in the pedestrian streets of this renaissance town.

you will enjoy the private guided tour of the Royal Castle of Amboise . Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, this truly royal castle introduced Italian style and taste into the Loire Valley.

Then your guide will walk you to the Clos Lucé , Leonardo da Vinci’s last residence, located at 10 minutes’ walk from the castle of Amboise. The gardens and grounds display his inventions, a beautiful tribute to a genius.

Finally a short drive across the vineyards will lead us to Vouvray for a visit of a troglodyte wine cellar and a wine tasting , to beautifully finish the day !

Each day tour is different with its own compenent, but the price of a typical day tour will start at € 190,00 per person on a basis of 4 persons .

It includes:

• Welcome and pick-up at the train station or at your hotel by your private guide ( remember, with Riverloire you don't have to go to a point of collect nor wait for other people )
• All transportation in a deluxe vehicle
• All the entrance fees
• The gourmet lunch with drinks included
• Wine tasting, as per the intinerary
• Fees and taxes

If you’ve just returned from this “Loire Valley Day tour” tour we’d love to hear from you...

Jim (USA), a tripadvisor review (5 stars) - April 2024

Carel (Ireland), a tripadvisor review (5 stars) - July 2023

Elizabeth (USA), a tripadvisor review (5 stars) - June 2022

Scott (USA), a tripadvisor review (4 stars) - March 2022

Christina (USA) a review from TripAdvisor (5 stars) - December 2019

Keith (USA), a tripadvisor review (5 stars) - May 2019

Nicole (USA) - May 2019

Brad (USA) - April 2019

Courtney (USA), a tripadvisor review (5 stars) - November 2018

Tim (Italy), a tripadvisor review (5stars) - October 2018

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Special interests tours

Local experiences

Paris and beyond

Riverloire is the first and only travel agency exclusively dedicated to luxury travel in the Loire Valley  - © 2022 RIVERLOIRE

Your luxury travel specialist of Loire Valley, Normandy and Brittany

Whether you’re a lover of wine, art, culture, history, food, Loire Valley has a number of exclusive Loire Valley private tours entirely at your disposal.

From must-see to hidden gems , uncover Loire with our expert local driver-guide .

You will get the chance to experience authentic visits and meet with natives from the Loire ; winemakers, castle owners, bakers, wine expert, passionate guides, creative gardeners. Also, combining these authentic experiences with the visit of iconic sites such as Chambord, Chenonceau, Villandry is the perfect way to enjoy the destination. 

All of the holidays and tours we create are completely tailor-made to you or to your customers! The following tours are only examples of what we can offer!  Contact-us  for more information.

chateaux and wine experience

1 day - tailor-made trip

gardens & castle private tour

iconic loire valley castles

wine experience

loire castles and kayak experience

Cruise on the loire river, castle & wine

Loire Valley wine and cheese discovery

in the footsteps of leonardo da vinci

sancerre wine tour

looking for the black diamond

1 day - tailor-made trip​

romantic honeymoon

3 days / 2 nights - tailor-made trip

a royal wellness getaway

2 days / 1 night - tailor-made trip

loire valley's beauties

5 days / 4 nights - tailor-made trip

enchanted babymoon

3 days / 2 nights - tailor-made trip​

fontevraud abbey experience

christmas magic

Luxury Girl's getaway

6 days / 5 nights - tailor-made trip

fairytale family holidays

Château de Candes - Art and Spa experience

le mans classic experience

Organic wine tour.

8 days / 7 nights - tailor-made trip

french gardens tour

best of normandy, loire valley & brittany

Perfum workshop

Hot air balloon ride

bread making workshop

Sparkling wine house visit

wine pairing cooking class

escape game in a winery

• Loire Valley

Browse the sample tours below for inspiration or contact us straight away for a tailor-made itinerary by a local travel designer.

Our favorite loire valley tours.

The Gorgeous Loire Valley by Bike

Flavors of the Loire Valley

A Short Luxury Break in the Loire Valley

Highlights of the Loire Valley

Luxury Trip to Paris, Normandy, and Loire Valley

Luxury Escape to the Loire Valley

Loire valley in depth.

Get to know the Loire Valley

The so-called Garden of France is located just a couple hours drive southwest of Paris. It was a battleground during the Hundred Years War before becoming a playground for French royalty in the 15th and 16th centuries. Seemingly countless castles span the valley from Orleans to Anger. Some are imposing fortresses, while others are flamboyant displays of wealth and power ( ch â teau can mean both castle and palace in French ). Chenonceau, Chambord, and Amboise are the first ch â teaux that most visitors see, but many, many others are worthwhile. The extensive gardens at Château de Villandry, the sound and light show at the Royal Ch â teau of Blois, and Le Clos Lucé, Leonardo Da Vinci’s former manor, are sure to delight.

Fantastic, diverse vineyards and enchanting villages also await visitors to the Loire. Amboise, Blois, Orléans, and Tours are lovely. The gently rolling hills of this UNESCO World Heritage-designated region are a pleasure to explore on an e-bike. But, the most romantic way to appreciate the Loire Valley may be from above, aboard a hot air balloon.

The Loire Valley is known as the garden of France, and the cuisine incorporates fantastic produce with local game and freshwater fish. Try the traditional fouace or fouée breads. You’ll find them stuffed, often with rillettes , a type of pork paté.

Tarte Tatin , an upside-down apple tart, is one of our very favorite French desserts.

When to go: May through June and September to October offer the ideal conditions to appreciate the natural beauty of the region and the gorgeous gardens at the various châteaux. The climate is favorable for much of the year, as the Loire River moderates the temperatures. The climate can be cool with a springtime frost and wine harvest months may see a lot of rain. Summers are hot however influences from the Atlantic moderate the temperature with welcome breezes. 

By Train: The TGV connects Paris to Tours in about 35 minutes and 1 1/2 hours to Blois.

By Car: It is a short 2 1/2-hour drive from Paris to Amboise or Tours.

By Plane: Most people will arrive via Paris. If you prefer to avoid flying into Paris, Nantes’s airport has connections to many European hubs. It is located just 2 ½  hours west of Tours by car.

What to eat and drink:

Cheese: The Loire’s fantastic goat cheeses include 5 AOP appellations: cylindrical Saint-Maure with a piece of straw in its center, Selles-sur-Cher , Crottin de Chavignol , and the pyramid-shaped Pouligny-Saint-Pierre and Valençay.

Wine: The Loire Valley is one of France’s most productive wine regions with diverse wines including reds, rosés, whites, sparkling, and so-called grey wines. That confusing-named vin gris is actually a pale rosé and perfect for a summer day. The great variety means that there is something for every taste. We enjoy the Rosé d’Anjou and the excellent Muscadet, Pouilly-Fumé and Sancerre whites.

Experience the Loire Valley

Château de Chambord

The Château de Chambord is a true Renaissance masterpiece. It is the biggest and most majestic of the Loire palaces. Created as a hunting lodge for King François I, it is a monumental work with more than 440 rooms. It sits on a 21-square mile walled property, equivalent in size to that of the entire city of Paris. The property features extensive royal gardens and unspoiled woods. Many elements, particularly the double-helix stairway, seem to be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s work. The view from the top offers a gorgeous panorama of the roofs, towers, chimneys, and the surrounding estate. 

Château d’Amboise and Clos Lucé

This palace was a residence for French Kings from the 15th until the 19th century. While the site was used as a fort since Roman times, the château seen today was rebuilt by King Charles VIII in a late Gothic Flamboyant style with Italian Renaissance influences. Famous he died here after hitting his head on one of its doorways shortly after the work was completed. Make the climb for the 130-foot (40-meter) Minimes Tower for impressive panoramas. 

Leonardo Da Vinci is buried in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert on the chateau’s grounds. The legendary Renaissance man lived a ten-minute walk away in Le Clos Lucé. A visit to the manor is a unique opportunity to visit the genius’s workshop and see models of his inventions. 

Château de Chenonceau, the Lady’s Castle

The graceful Château de Chenonceau is one of France’s most memorable castles. The building itself is built on arches spanning the Cher River. It is nicknamed the Château des Dames thanks to the numerous noblewomen who left their mark on its history. It was originally built by Katherine Briçonnet in 1513. King Henry II later gifted it to his mistress Diane de Poitiers. However, after his death, the Queen, Catherine de Medicis, evicted Poitiers and took up residence herself at the palace. The influence of these powerful women is evident throughout the estate, from the lush interiors to the competing Poitiers and Medicis gardens.

Loire Valley Vineyards

The Loire River is France’s longest wine route, stretching for 600 miles (1,000 km) from the Atlantic Coast to Sancerre in central France. A wide range of micro-climates means that the area produces diverse wines from dry and sweet whites to rosés, reds, and crémant sparkling wines. Cabernet Franc , Chenin , Melon de Bourgogne , and Sauvignon are among the most popular varietals. Many wine cellars are in extensive troglodyte galleries, former quarries dug to supply building material for the valley’s châteaux. They make for a fascinating place to sample the region’s fine wine or cool off on a summer day. Among the dozens of Loire Valley AOCs, Vouvay and Chinon are two of the best-known.

Favorite Hotels

Chateau de Pray

Relais de Chambord

Hotel Pavillon des Lys

Château des Grotteaux

Le Manoir Les Minimes

Hotel Fleur De Loire

Les Tresorieres

Les Sources de Cheverny

Domaine de Primard

Related articles.

10 Essential Loire Valley Châteaux

A Fall Getaway to the Loire Valley

What to Do in the Loire Valley in 2023

What our clients are saying, why french side travel.

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Visit Chateau de l'Islette - Loire Valley driving tours Chateau de l'Islette

Self-drive Loire Valley Tours

Loire valley tours - castles & wine.

There is nowhere better in France than the Loire Valley to give you a real taste of the sweet way of life. The mildness of its climate, the tasty  local cuisine  and wine and the hearty welcome of the Touraine people are guaranteed to make this a trip of a lifetime. 

In 2013 I had 2 big reasons to plan a trip to France: a new grand baby boy in Avignon, and I wanted to surprise my husband with a trip to Normandy. He absolutely loves anything and …

In 2013 I had 2 big reasons to plan a trip to France: a new grand baby boy in Avignon, and I wanted to surprise my husband with a trip to Normandy. He absolutely loves anything and everything he can find to read or watch that is related to WWII. So, I started exploring online for a custom tour designer that could put together a great itinerary for these two objectives, and I found the most amazing person, Emilie from France Just For You! She listened to what I wanted to do and created the most amazing 2 week itinerary from Normandy, to the Loire Valley, to Provance. She set up stays in restored castles, grand estates, warm and inviting B &B's, arranged rental cars, train tickets, special retired military tour guides in Normandy, and too many things to list! The icing on the cake was an amazing customized bound itinerary in book-form, with tips about driving in France, tolls, roundabouts, gas stations, speed limits, traffic signs, 3-4 day trips by car for each area we visited, so we could choose how and what we wanted to see the countryside or quaint towns. Suggested out-of-the-way sights, cafes, wineries, shopping, scenic places, etc. One of the places we loved most, was staying in her parents' B&B in the Loire Valley. Their home was lovely, warm, inviting and we met such wonderful travelers there! I fell in love with her mother's homemade fresh yogurt, and she told me how to make it once I got home! I love it and make it all the time now!! We ended our trek through France in the south, in Avignon, where we spent time with family and met our grandson for the first time! We stayed in a comfortable home there that was like being in our own home. We were able to share relaxing family time with lots of space. And don't forget the lavender fields and the natural beauty of Provance! What a way to end our trip. I highly recommend Emilie for all of your travel in France! I will always call her for my trips there- and I'll probably call her for any trip to Europe in the hopes that she can help with other countries too!!!

Our Self-Guided Tours in Loire Valley

Between Northern and Southern France, the Loire Valley can be included to many different French itineraries.

Villandry castle & gardens ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

The Loire Valley's Heritage & Gastronomy

Be seduced by France Just For You's very special way of discovering the Loire Valley, its must sees and hidden beauties. In this itinerary, you will experience the "sweet life" in Touraine, stopping over in little villages to savor local goat cheese or taste amazing wines. Take the time to relax in rose gardens, or to enjoy the traditional cuisine in many small restaurants frequented by the locals.

Villandry French style gardens France Just For You

The Loire Valley & Bordeaux UNESCO sites

Uncover every hideaway and detail of the Loire Valley and Bordeaux UNESCO heritage sites. Taste typical regional fo od at your hosts’ table and stay at Bed & Breakfasts with unique atmospheres .

La Liodière restaurant & chef ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

Scenic Roads & French Cuisine

Travel through three of the most fascinating regions in France. Let your friendly hosts introduce you to the French "sweet life" in their charming B&Bs.

Cochise - OT Vallée de la Dordogne Cochise - OT Vallée de la Dordogne

The diversity of French Landscapes

Let yourself be carried away by three of the most iconic regions of France. From the Vallée de la Loire's "sweet life" to Dordogne's castles and Provence's colorful landscapes, you'll have a most enjoyable and memorable journey!

Half timbered houses in the Loire Valley Half timbered houses in the Loire Valley

Castles, Caves & Coves

Explore French culture and history in three of its most representative regions: the Loire Valley, Dordogne and the Riviera, with a nice stop in Carcassonne.

Dentelles in Provence Alain Hocquel - CDT Vaucluse

The "Tour de France"

France Just For You has organized its own very special Tour de France. No need for a bike but be ready for a great deal of adventure! This itinerary will take you off the beaten path to all the must sees & dos in four of the most enthralling regions of France.

Langeais town in the Loire Valley David Darrault

Normandy & the Loire Valley Loop

Normandy & the Loire Valley are 2 regions of France you should not miss: the climate is mild, the people are very welcoming and history is around every corner.

Burgundy wine tasting ©Alain Doiré

The Center of France on the Back Roads

Exploring by the back roads is the best way to experience France and immerse yourself in the culture. Get a real feel for the authentic France, and enjoy at your own pace.

Chambord castle FJFY

Sceneries, Wineries & Castles in the Heart of France

Explore and fully experience two "very French" regions, both famous for their gastronomy, wines, beautiful landscapes and very rich heritage.

La Concorde in Paris David Lefranc - OT Paris

Heritage, Wine & Back Roads

Get a taste of the real France in very typical regions, famous for their cultural heritage as well as their sweet way of life.

Arromanches cliffs L.Durand - Calvados Tourisme

Normandy beaches, the Loire river banks & Paris

Follow the waterways in France from the Norman beaches on the Atlantic coasts to the Loire river, its castles and wonderful gardens . . . ending along the Seine river banks in Paris.

Honfleur - Chateaux of the Loire tour - loire valley castles tour OT Normandie

Chateaux of the Loire & Norman History

From the Loire Valley castles, the famous village of Mont Saint Michel surrounded by water, the landings beaches and the Norman countryside . . . to end the trip at Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny: you’ll have to keep your eyes wide open!

You may not believe it but this is a Paris street... David Lefranc - OT Paris

Northern France at your own pace

This itinerary gives you the perfect tour of Northern France, including Paris, the Loire Valley castles and gastronomy, and ending in Normandy with the landing sites, the hinterland and beautiful Giverny.

on the Loire River David Darrault

Northern France Must Sees & Hidden Beauties

This is the best itinerary to thoroughly discover the Northern part of France: Burgundy vineyards, Loire Valley castles, Normandy WWII history . . . and ending in the most famous and beautiful capital in the world - Paris.

Le Rivau Castle Jean-Christophe Coutand - ADT Touraine

Paris, Burgundy Gastronomy & Loire Castles

Discover French gastronomy in three regions famous the world over for their food and wines. Burgundy and the Loire Valley are actually arguing about where Coq au Vin was first invented. Burgundy is famous for wine sauce and the Loire Valley for river fish, fruits and goat cheese. And of course Paris is heaven to gourmets! You’ll find the best boulangeries in the world in Paris, and the food markets are amazing.

chambord castle loire valley Chambord castle

Romantic Day Tour in the Loire Valley

How to Get There If you are already in the Loire Valley, we can plan your day from your accommodation. If you are in Paris, you may take a 1 hour high speed train to Tours train station. For this special day, we plan for you to get an overview of the diversity of the Loire Valley.

Local sheep from Basque Country Sare Tourist Office

From Paris to Biarritz on the back roads

From Paris to Toulouse, this trip will allow you to explore these unique regions by the backroads. Take the time to visit some of the hidden castles of the Loire Valley, enjoy duck confit in Dordogne, and discover the typical villages of the Basque Country.

france itinerary 4 weeks CRT Bouches du Rhone

Self-Driving around France - from Paris to Nice

Spend about a month traveling from Paris to Nice on the French Riviera and get a real feel for the authentic France!

Lovely Dordogne town CDT Dordogne - Cochise

The Many Facets of France

This itinerary is for independent travelers who may already know the southern coast of France and who are looking for discovering the “inside” of the country. Five regions that are totally different from each other, showing you the diversity of France.

enjoy Provence towns P.Aguilar - Provence Tourisme

From Provence to Paris - Immersion into the "Real France"

This itinerary will take you from South to North, following some of the most typical and beautiful scenic roads in France. We recommend flying into Marseille airport.

Calvados Tourisme - L. Durand

Paris, the Loire Valley and Normandy at a slower pace

This itinerary will take you to three of the culturally richest regions of France, at a relaxed pace and away from the beaten tracks. We recommend flying into and out of Paris for this itinerary.

Chinon fortress Jean-Christophe Coutand - ADT Touraine

From Verdun history to the Loire castles

This itinerary gives a nice overview of the center of France: the Verdun WWI battlefields, the wine and heritage of Burgundy, and ending in the Loire Valley with its gardens, castles and sweet life.

Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

France for Wine Lovers

This itinerary is designed for gourmet travelers who aim at discovering and learning more about French wines. Our tours also mix heritage, culture, nice walks, gardens, etc. In this tour, you will stay in wineries, by vineyards & in wine towns. An absolute must for wine lovers !

Royal Fortress in Chinon Jean-Christophe Coutand - ADT Touraine

The Very Best of Northern France

From East to West, discover the Northern half of France at your own pace. Visit Alsace, Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Normandy, ending your wonderful adventure in Paris.

Marc Schaffner - Morbihan Tourisme

Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley Tour

From the landing sites in Normandy to Mont Saint Michel on to Brittany ending in the Loire Valley, this itinerary will have you discover all the history, traditions and gastronomy of the North-West of France.

How to get to the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is very easy to reach from Paris. From downtown Paris or CDG Airport, the Loire is only around 3 hours by car. With a quick stop somewhere to stretch your legs, it will be an easy journey. The Loire is also only 1hr on the High Speed Train (TGV) from Paris - however it is difficult to get automatic cars in Tours and therefore we usually recommend that our travelers pick up a rental car in Paris. 

For those who want to see several different regions, the Loire Valley is just a 3 and half hour drive from the Normandy Landing Sites and the Bordeaux Vineyards . For those who want to continue their trip by heading to Provence, there are some direct trains from Tours to Avignon in Provence . 

The Loire Valley Map

The most interesting part of the Loire region - also known as Castle Country - spreads along the Loire River from Blois (upstream) down to Saumur.

In 2000, the Loire Valley was listed as a UNESCO protected site for its natural beauty from Sully sur Loire to Chalonnes. The area envelops the remarkable cities of Tours, Orléans, Blois, Saumur and Chinon and of course the castles of the Loire Valley such as the Chateau de Chambord, the Chateau de Chenonceau and many more.  

Northern Loire Valley

The most famous and most visited sites of the Loire Valley are in the North-East part of the region, closer to Paris. Chambord and Chenonceau are in constant battle with each other for the title of ‘the most visited site of the region’ with about 800,000 visitors a year. Due to their popularity, we provide some tips on how to see these gorgeous places whilst avoiding the crowds as much as possible on our Loire Valley tours.

Less famous but still fascinating is Cheverny castle. This chateau inspired Belgian comic book creator Hergé to design Moulinsard castle, which featured in  The Adventures of Tin-Tin . It is one of the few places where you can see hunting hounds (still hunting in the Sologne woods) and the castle is sure to blow you away as its interiors are exceptionally well preserved. Chaumont castle has also gained fame for its annual  International Garden Festival , which brings together and delights flower lovers from all over the world.

Amboise is one of the easiest base camps from which to explore the Northern Loire Valley on our self guided tours. The city itself is charming and has a beautiful castle, the Clos Lucé – where Leonardo Da Vinci lived in the last years of his life.

It also has some nice restaurants and a vast array shops. Amboise is also the home of the best chocolate and pastry maker in the whole region as well as a relatively unknown cellar where you can choose from a staggering selection of old wines (you might even be able to buy a bottle of Loire Valley wine from the year you were born).

Southern Loire Valley

For those who would like to venture off the beaten track, allow us to present to you the Southern Loire Valley, passing the city of Tours. Even if the castles might not be as big and impressive as in Northern Loire, this region is sure to delight visitors with its small villages, hillside vineyards and beautiful gardens such as those at the Chateau de Villandry.

History lovers will also be impressed by  Loches fortress  and  Fontevraud Abbey . If you have a penchant for castles, you're in for a treat. Azay-le-Rideau, Langeais, Candé, Montrésor are just a few of the Châteaux of the Loire you will find here. We are more than happy to tailor your castle experience according to the type of architecture and history you like best.

The Loire Valley Castles Tour

Perhaps one of the most magnificent things you’ll see during your time here are the freestone chateaux strung out along the Loire river. These include the Château de  Chambord , the Château d' Amboise , the Château de  Chenonceau  and  Chinon Castle, all showcasing the greatness of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. 

Officially there are about 42 castles, also known as the  Chateaux de la Loire . However, if you are ready to venture away from the Loire River, you’ll discover hundreds of architectural gems that have remained unknown to most travelers. This magnificent region will take you back to a more romantic time, characterised by balls, banquets, and power struggles. 

Embark on a Loire Valley castles tour and  feel like Kings and Queens walking up and down the spiral staircases and along the tapestry galleries, royal bedrooms, and large courts and gardens.

Many Experiences in the Loire Valley

However, our Loire Valley self-drive tours are not only about castles. There are plenty of other activities here that can make your trip even more special: hot air balloon rides, wine tasting, outdoor activities (such as kayaking or cycling along the Loire River), enjoying the tantalising array of local food and so much more. 

For something a bit more relaxed, visitors are encouraged to go for a wander off the beaten track, following the twists of the Loire River as it winds between breathtaking chateaux, vineyards, beautifully manicured gardens and dense forests...which makes it a very romantic destination in France .

The Loire Valley wine tours are also quite a must try and we will be happy to include one to your road trip to the Loire region if you wish.

Loire Valley Accommodations : Hotels, B&Bs, Castles

The Loire Valley is a popular region of France and, unless you are just there on a day trip from Paris, you will be able to choose from a selection of fantastic local accommodations. The most famous hotels are located in Blois, Amboise and Tours, right in the middle of the best-known areas.

We have selected accommodations away from the crowds - mostly  Bed & Breakfasts and boutique hotels  - in the Loire region so our travelers can feel at home. You will have the opportunity to interact with the locals and be perfectly located to explore the region on your Loire Valley driving tour.

For those who dream about  staying in a French chateau , we have handpicked a few chateau hotels so your dream can finally become a reality. For one night (or several) you will feel like the Kings and Queens of France!

Castle accommodation in the Loire Valley

What to do in the Loire Valley

Now it’s time to talk about the most famous Loire Valley castles. There are certainly some that should take priority on your Loire Valley castles tour. We live in the Loire region and are therefore well positioned to recommend the best castles in the region, both on and off the beaten track.  Let us know what interests you and we will design a schedule that matches your wishes for your Loire Valley driving tour. 

Do you like medieval or Renaissance castles? Or are you more interested in religious sites such as chapels, churches, abbeys and cathedrals? Perhaps you would rather spend your time on a visiting wineries, cheese producers and restaurants? We love sharing the best our region has to offer with foreigners so tell us what interests you and let us do the rest.

Castles, Castles... but not only Castles...

For history or heritage lovers, the Loire Valley is pretty much Heaven on earth. If you would like to see some of our favorite Loire Valley castles, you check our  Loire castles pictures .

However, the Loire Valley has much more to offer than just its castles. We will make sure your daily itineraries are varied and balanced so you won't get overwhelmed with French history.

Brézé Castle in the Loire Valley

Gardens in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley hosts some of the most  beautiful gardens in France . The French style gardens at the Chateau de Villandry are pristine and a true marvel. But garden lovers can also tour many other sites such as Valmer, Candé or St Cosme and be really surprised by the quality of the gardens. Mixing art and gardening, the International Garden Festival in Chaumont sur Loire is also a great day out. 

Villandry Gardens in the Loire Valley

Wine Tasting Tours in the Loire Valley

For wine lovers and connoisseurs, a driving tour of the Loire Valley will be an unforgettable experience. Vineyards line the road and stretch out as far as the eye can see. An impressive range of wines can be found in this region,  from the red wines of Chinon to the sparkling white wines of Vouvray .

We have selected several wineries to include in our Loire Valley tours where visitors can enjoy wine tours with a qualified English-speaking winemaker or sommelier. White wines from Saumur or Montlouis, rosés from Anjou or red wines from Chinon, Bourgueil or Touraine are all on offer, so sip away until you find the one you like best.

Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley - ©Stevens Frémont

You can enjoy simple wine tastings, or advanced  wine and cheese pairings where you may match the local wines with some local delicacies. Most of the tastings take place in the wine cellars where the wines are aged. You will enjoy an authentic ambiance while you sample these regional specialties.

If that’s not enough, you can also go on a private Loire Valley wine tour with a passionate wine guide  who will take you to several wineries for a unique wine experience. The program can be tailor-made according to the type of wine you like. Don't worry - we will arrange for a driver to take you back to your B&B. 

If you like wine, we can organize a tour of the wine regions of France . 

Loire à Vélo Bike Tour

The Loire Valley is a flat region offering pleasant biking trails along the Loire River  and its tributaries. Many of the Loire Valley castles are quite close to each other and easily reachable by bike so this is a great way to get outside and see the best of the region. 

"Loire à Vélo" was recently created to offer trails along the Loire River, designed to allow cyclists an easy passage from Blois to Nantes.

For those who are particularly interested in cycling holidays, we have a great full day biking tour along the Loire River . We provide you with all the information you need to make the most of this beautiful route.

Biking along the Loire River - ©David Darrault

The Loire Valley Cuisine

The Loire is not just about wine. The Loire River has always been a means of transportation, especially in the past centuries. This has made the Loire cuisine very rich and varied, as it has benefited from the commerce relations that have always existed in the area.  

You can learn more about the  fouées , the  rillettes  or  poires tapées  checking the  Loire Valley Gastronomy  page...or enjoying a Loire valley tour !  

Rillettes de Tours - ©Stevens Frémont

FAQs about the Loire Valley

It really depends on what you wish to do. As a very minimum you need 3 full days (4 nights) to be introduced to the castle's country.

Our Loire Valley tours are usually about 5-7 nights to cover some of the most known places and also hidden gems. 

We can also plan 2 full weeks self-drive tour in the Loire Valley and guarantee that you won't get bored. 

Our favorite months to go on a road trip to the Loire Valley are May, June, July and September. However, self-drive tours in the Loire Valley can be enjoyed anytime from March until November (and during Christmas holidays).

The Loire region is first known for its amazing castles. However, going on a self-drive tour in the Loire region you will figure out that it has a condensed taste of France: gorgeous gardens to stroll, amazing cuisine and delicious wines, lots of restaurants in lovely towns, huge history, many outdoor activities...a lot to keep travelers happy. 

Blog posts about Loire Valley

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The Best Time of Year to Visit France’s Wine Regions

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16 of the most beautiful gardens in France

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Best Castles to Visit in France

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Off the Beaten Path: Exploring France's Hidden Gems

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Our travelers’ reviews.

We could not be happier. When we first received the guide book and brochures, we thought we would not need them, but they were invaluable! Our first stay with Florence and Phil was especially memorable but really we cannot think of a highlight because it was all wonderful. We will certainly recommend your company to anyone we know travelling to …

We could not be happier. When we first received the guide book and brochures, we thought we would not need them, but they were invaluable! Our first stay with Florence and Phil was especially memorable but really we cannot think of a highlight because it was all wonderful. We will certainly recommend your company to anyone we know travelling to France. We will send you nice photos when we get back home.

Emilie, You have created for us the most outstanding well planned vacation possible. We have thoroughly enjoyed following your suggestions each day-- each choice well selected specifically for us. And even when things didn't go perfectly-- like a flat tire on the rental car or a pilot's strike which resulted in the cancellation of our light, you …

Emilie, You have created for us the most outstanding well planned vacation possible. We have thoroughly enjoyed following your suggestions each day-- each choice well selected specifically for us. And even when things didn't go perfectly-- like a flat tire on the rental car or a pilot's strike which resulted in the cancellation of our light, you still remained by our side and managed the process until a solution was reached. We can't thank you enough for your remarkable service. Our vacation to France would have been entirely different and not as interesting without you. Thank you for everything,

Just a quick word of admiration and thanks for well planned and executed vacation for us. Every hotel, Chateau, B&B was clever, different and fun. Guides were outstanding and your recommendations without a flaw. I know we would enjoyed this vacation more because of your efforts Our time in France ends tomorrow and we have memories to carry us to …

Just a quick word of admiration and thanks for well planned and executed vacation for us. Every hotel, Chateau, B&B was clever, different and fun. Guides were outstanding and your recommendations without a flaw. I know we would enjoyed this vacation more because of your efforts Our time in France ends tomorrow and we have memories to carry us to our next visit A la prochaine

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• Journey to the Loire Valley (38987)

Journey to the Loire Valley

Includes : International Airfare, Hotel, Tours, Transfers and More!

Land Program : Includes Full-day Guided Tours on Most Days

Start Date : October 22, 2025 (Sailing October 30, 2025)

About This Journey

If it is romanticism, grandeur and epicurean delights you crave, then travel to the heart of France to explore the rich cradle of French history that is the Loire Valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this river valley is sprinkled with vineyards, gardens and fields; it is no wonder that aristocrats and artists have come to make this beautiful land their residence for centuries. Begin your Journey in Paris with a starlight dinner cruise along the Seine to put you in the “joie de vivre” spirit before heading south to your home base in the city of Tours. From here, each day you will encounter the opulent chateaux and noble states that sprinkle the landscape. From the largest chateau in the Loire Valley the extravagant Chateau de Chambord, to the Chateau de Chenonceau, iconic for its renaissance gallery spanning the river below it. Tour the fairytale castle rumored to have inspired Charles Perrault to write Sleeping Beauty and spend the afternoon wandering the lush Villandry Gardens to see why they call this region the “Garden of France.” Partake in a wine tasting in Vouvray, a region known for its Chenin blanc and sparkling varieties. You’ll enjoy the bucolic scenery and a tasting of the region’s celebrated wines while cruising on the peaceful Cher River before rolling up your sleeves for a lesson in local cuisine with a cooking class experience. You will then fly to Barcelona with a day to explore the city on your own, followed by a farewell flamenco show dinner. Then embark the Celebrity Eclipse for a relaxing transatlantic cruise home, no doubt dreaming of the glistening banquet halls, manicured gardens, delicious wines and soaring spires of the Loire Valley.

Visits: Celebrity Eclipse, Paris, Tours, Barcelona, Lisbon, Madeira (Funchal), King’s Wharf, Fort Lauderdale, 38987

Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.

For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.

Included Features

• International airfare, transfers and baggage handling
• Airfare from Paris to Barcelona, including transfers and baggage handling
• Welcome Seine Dinner Cruise
• Full-day tour to Chateau Chambord
• Full-day Tours City Tour and Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau
• Full-day tour of Chateau d’Usee and Villandry Gardens
• Full-day tour of Amboise and Vouvray Winery
• Full-day tour of Chateau de Chenonceau and Cooking Class
• Flamenco Dinner show
• Tour Leader throughout pre-cruise land program and Local Tour Hosts during included tours
• Most meals while on tour (see itinerary highlights) and all meals while onboard
• 10% off shore excursions (see “special offers”)
• Drinks and Wi-Fi are All Included on Celebrity Cruises
• Sail with up to   $1,400 Onboard Credit and a $200 Visa Gift Card with  Drinks and Wi-Fi —All Included.  Learn More ➤

What to Expect on Your Trip

5 out of 5 – Land program Includes Full-day Guided Tours on Most Days

The overall pace is active, as most days include a full-day tour. Guests should be prepared to walk a couple miles per day while on full-day tours. Breakfast is always included at the hotel. Some additional meals will be included, while other meals may be at your leisure. All hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine. If you wish to go out, your guide is available to make suggestions for nearby dining.

During the cruise you will have a mix of relaxing days at sea and exciting days on land to explore the port cities. You may choose from optional shore excursions, which will allow for cultural immersion, exotic meals and numerous activities.

Physical Activity

The land portion of the trip should be considered moderate to active and includes a considerable amount of walking. In the Loire Valley, many places visited are smaller towns with cobblestone streets. Roads and walkways on inclines could transform a short walk into a strenuous one. The chateaus will have stairs and may not offer accessible alternatives to other floors.

Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. However, some areas cannot be accessed by coach, so our drivers will get you as close to sites as is legally allowed. Sensible, rubber-soled walking shoes are strongly recommended. Historical sites often do not have elevators, escalators, or ramps due to the age of the building/structure. Steps can be steep and uneven. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed.

Wheelchair access at many sites is limited to extremely limited. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation. Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program.

For the cruise portion of the trip, passengers will board and leave the ship up stairways and gangways and you may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to train, bus and car stations. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.

Cultural Focus

The entire Loire Valley was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the region’s significance in French history and culture. You will encounter dishes and ingredients typical to the region that you may not have encountered before and you will be introduced to local artistry of the region. Enrichment Journeys encourages an open mind when in unique situations and meeting people abroad. Sometimes the attractions, beaches and cities themselves can be crowded, especially while on the cruise.

Unique Factors

If you have special needs or physical limitations, you will need to check in with your personal vacation manager before booking the trip. Many sites on the itinerary will not be able to accommodate wheelchairs or scooters. The temperature can vary between day and night, so pack accordingly with items that can be layered. Some guests may wish to have a light sweater or windbreaker with them.

Transportation

While on tour:

Paris – Tours: 3-hour Coach

Paris – Barcelona: 2-hour Flight

Please note that these times are approximate and only reflect the transportation time. Our trip may be longer due to stops for sightseeing along the way.

International Airfare:

Included international airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.

Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $100 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $100 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.

Ask about receiving 10% off all shore excursions from Shore Excursions Group!

Special offer for journeys on celebrity cruises—ends 8/31.

All guests must choose the same package type. View Celebrity Terms and Conditions . Offer expires August 31, 2024 or when sold out.

1-night Paris Extension (pre)

Although everyone on the Enrichment Journey will fly into the Paris airport, the itinerary does not include any time in the city other than the first night. With this optional extension you will arrive to Paris 1 day early and stay in the city, giving you time to explore Paris on your own before the start of the Enrichment Journey program. Note: tours are not included. Call to ask for quote about the price per person (based on double occupancy) which includes:

• 1-night hotel accommodations in Paris with daily breakfast
• Private transfer from airport to hotel (applicable when air is booked through Enrichment Journeys)

2-night Paris Extension (pre)

Although everyone on the Enrichment Journey will fly into the Paris airport, the itinerary does not include any time in the city other than the first night. With this optional extension you will arrive to Paris 2 days early and stay in the city, giving you 2 full free days to explore Paris on your own before the start of the Enrichment Journey program. Note: tours are not included. Call to ask for quote about the price per person (based on double occupancy) which includes:

• 2-night hotel accommodations in Paris with daily breakfast

Prices are in USD and are based on double occupancy.

This Journey is sold out. Please call to inquire about being added to the waitlist. -->

All prices on our website and e-Journey Travel Guide are subject to change without notice. While we make every effort to provide you the most accurate and up-to-date information, occasionally, a trip or pricing category may be misprinted or unavailable at the time of booking. In the event of an incorrect price due to typographical, photographic, or technical error, or error in pricing information received from our suppliers, we retain the right to correct the price and to refuse or cancel any bookings placed at the incorrect price. In addition, all offers, prices, and conditions of sale may be subject to change without notice including tours, included features, highlights, minimum or maximum stays, itinerary, times in port, and/or other conditions/restrictions.

The following hotel list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.

16 Boulevard Haussmann, Paris, France, 75009

Toll Free:+0-800-19271927

The Art Deco Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel, built in 1927, known as “Hotel Ambassador,” is located on Boulevard Haussmann, Paris’ vibrant cultural and shopping district, next to Opera Garnier and iconic department stores. The hotel’s chic design, defined by the authentic Haussmann facade and stylish furnishing, creates an elegant, contemporary environment inspired by Opera Garnier. The hotel features 297 modern guest rooms and suites with marbled bathrooms, elegantly furnished in various blue shades, for business travelers or family gatherings.

5 Boulevard Heurteloup, 37000, Tours, France

Telephone: + 33 02 47 05 37 12

The hotel in Tours is one of the city’s historic hotels. Since it opened in 1846, the hotel has welcomed big names, including Serge Gainsbourg, Sarah Bernhardt, Katherine Hepburn and Edith Piaf. You can admire their portraits in the impressive gallery overlooking the foyer steeped in memories. Discover the authentic hotel and La Touraine restaurant and bar, from the spa and wellness area to the rooms, where the unique decor, blending tradition and modernity, invites you to travel.

Roger de Lluria 16-18, 08010 Barcelona, Spain

Telephone: +34 932 150 052

Just steps from Plaça Urquinaona, Plaça Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia. Hotel Negresco Princess’ privileged location makes it the perfect choice for visiting Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s Cathedral, the Gothic Quarter, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló and shopping at the best boutiques on Passeig de Gràcia. Whether from the avant-garde atrium, one of the 128 welcoming rooms, relaxation area, gym or terrace with privileged views of the whole city, a solarium and infinity pool, the hotel is the perfect base for discovering all of Barcelona’s secrets. Plus the great food at Nesgresco Restaurant on the ground floor and La Terrazza by Bobby’s on the seventh floor. Cool and cosmopolitan, Hotel Negresco features a free minibar in every room and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Cruise Line: Celebrity

Since its inception in 1989, Celebrity has held true to its original commitment of taking the very best aspects of classic, elegant cruising and updating them to reflect current lifestyles. In 1997, they merged with Royal Caribbean International to form Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. What sets Celebrity apart from other vacation choices today is the cruise line’s passionate dedication to providing guests with a cruise experience that embodies modern luxury. This has become the definition of Celebrity Cruises and has set the worldwide standard for today’s expression of what first made cruising famous—high quality, superior design, spacious accommodations, grand style, attentive service and exceptional cuisine. Celebrity Cruises’ iconic “X” is the mark of contemporary spaces that are at once coolly sophisticated and warmly inviting. Where the culinary experience is influenced by global cuisines and designed by their Michelin-starred chef. Where their staff provides seamless and intuitive service that’s both personal and unobtrusive. Where everything is designed to provide an unparalleled Relaxed Luxury sm  resort at sea experience. Celebrity’s 15 award-winning ships offer unique experiences in more than 300 destinations on all seven continents.

Ship:  Celebrity Eclipse

Unwind in stylish accommodations, including Concierge Class and our spa-inspired AquaClass® with exclusive dining at Blu. And, the ultimate in luxury, exclusive sanctuary, The Retreat® which includes private restaurant dining and 24/7 lounge. Enjoy globally inspired cuisine in distinctive restaurants with menus crafted by our Michelin-starred chef. Make a toast in the Passport Bar, Martini Bar or World Class Bar. Enjoy endless ocean views, catch some sun and play your favorite outdoor games on a ½ acre of real grass at The Lawn Club. You’ll feel refreshed in The Spa, which features soothing treatments to invigorate the senses. Savor an incredible five-course meal designed by our Global Culinary Ambassador, Chef Daniel Boulud. Onboard experiences also include shopping at the finest boutiques and family fun activities, including Hot Glass classes and theatrical events. Set sail and discover a whole new level of rest and relaxation.

Celebrity Eclipse  is sailing with Starlink — the world’s most advanced broadband satellite internet — to bring you high-speed connectivity for a better onboard experience.

• Before You Go

Money Matters

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

ATM Machines

These are often readily available, especially in major cities. Some will charge fees on top of what your hometown bank may charge for using ATMs abroad. Look for well-marked machines that have the Visa or MasterCard symbols.

Foreign Banks

Currency can be exchanged at most banks, if needed. Ask a local host or tour manager if there is a nearby bank that is open.

Credit Cards

During your trip, you’ll find that most major credit cards are accepted. Call your specific card issuer ahead of time to find out its limitations and benefits overseas.

Incidentals

Do be aware that some additional charges for mini-bars, laundry and room service will not be included in the tour package. Plan accordingly for these extra charges.

Packing Guidelines

Pack as simply as possible for easy transfers and customs screenings. Check with your domestic and international carriers regarding baggage guidelines, allowances, and check for additional fees. All bags will be screened before boarding flights and the cruise ship.

What to pack

Basics and layers are key to a comfortable Journey. Be sure to check the weather in the destinations you will visit, and pack accordingly. There are always unpredictable variables as well, so make sure you have one sturdy jacket and an outfit for a formal occasion too, just in case.

Here are a few key items to take on your trip:

• Raincoat/poncho
• Hooded jacket/fleece pullover
• Pants with pockets
• Skirt with pockets
• Hat with visor & sunscreen/bug spray
• Sturdy sandals
• Practical shoes for walking/easy hiking
• Extra pair of prescription sunglasses and/or glasses (if needed)

Have back-ups for everything to avoid disappointment. Charge batteries in advance and bring extra film or digital memory cards. If bringing a high-end camera, consider investing in insurance to protect your asset.

Luggage Screening Process

To pass through screening, have liquids either in small containers and bagged, or in checked luggage. All valuables necessary for the trip should be on your person at all times, if possible. This includes medications and documentation. We recommend one main bag and a carry-on, per airline guidelines for weight and size.

Have all your bags labeled with your name and address clearly marked. Add something to you luggage that is recognizable in the event your bags are misplaced. You may also consider marking your bags with “Enrichment Journeys” for efficiency.

Carry-on items

In many countries, including the US, large liquid containers are not allowed in carry-ons. On the way back into The States, food or agriculture items are prohibited. If you have questions about a certain item, visit  www.tsa.gov  for a list of items that cannot be packed.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are included as part of your Enrichment Journey. Local representatives will advise you of the departure time from your hotel the night before departure. Generally speaking, arrangements have been made to have you at the airport approximately three hours in advance of departure, though this may vary depending on local circumstances. At the end of the cruise, an airport transfer will also be provided. Please advise your Personal Vacation Manager if you do not require transfer arrangements at the time of booking your Journey.

Cell phones

Some cell phones will work overseas, but incur additional charges for the use. Choose whether you would like to add an international plan by calling your carrier, or consider purchasing a pay-as-you-go phone overseas. However, in some destinations, many smartphones and tablets can pick up wireless Internet for free.

Protecting the Value of Your Travel Investment

Enrichment Journeys offers a comprehensive travel insurance package you can purchase alongside your trip. It eases the mind and lets you cancel your trip for a covered reason up until the departure date with a full refund of the Journey.

The insurance covers a wide variety of incidents, including travel delay, emergency medical services, and even baggage delay. You will also receive a pre-existing medical conditions waiver if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of your initial deposit. For a full list of coverage provided, visit the FAQ section of the website.

Medical Issues and Handicaps

As with any extensive trip abroad, our excursions with Enrichment Journeys will require some physical capabilities, including transfers from cruise ships, walking on cobblestone streets and navigating through some busy cities with guides. Although we encourage all types of travelers to join us, we do ask you are aware of your own physical limitations. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual care to those who may have walkers, wheelchairs or other aids. Enrichment Journeys also cannot accommodate pregnant women past their six month gestation period. Please speak with one of our Personal Vacation Managers to see if certain itineraries are suitable for you and your needs. We are happy to suggest other viable options for you that are more accessible.

Per the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, travelers have the right to be reasonably accommodated in terms of tours in public situations. However, the laws do not apply for trips and outside the United States. So you must let Enrichment Journeys know ahead of time of any physical limitations, including information added to our questionnaire that needs to be filled out by all passengers. Failure to inform Enrichment Journeys of these limitations could result in refusal to participate, whether it be at the airport through the airline, on board the ship or at the accommodations booked.

If you have any sort of prescription medication, this should be a number one priority in packing. Bring extra, just in case. A small medical kit is also advisable for quick access to remedy minor aches and pains.

Briefing sessions

A local host or tour manager will be happy to guide you through the trip and answer all of your questions. Upon arrival to your destination, an Enrichment Journeys representative will meet with the group and go over items such as the daily schedule, weather and local customs.

All hotels booked by Enrichment Journeys are held to a high standard of comfort and quality, in accordance to international accommodation standards and rating systems. However, each accommodation varies so you may experience various types of properties throughout your excursions.

Journey to Versailles, Normandy and Paris

Journey to Bordeaux, Brittany and Normandy

Journey to Porto, Lisbon and Casablanca

• Regional Information

Travel Documentation

Have your passport and visas ready and available at all checkpoints. Scan and copy these documents to print out. It is recommended that you e-mail a copy to yourself and someone back home in the event these documents are misplaced. Also, it may be worth bringing an international ID or license.

Passport and Visa

To travel internationally, you must have a passport in good condition and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Visa requirements change frequently and for various reasons . As a result, our Personal Vacation Managers are not always able to provide visa information, and you should not rely on the information provided below to be the most current and accurate. The best way to obtain up-to-date information regarding visa requirements is to visit the official US government website for Americans traveling abroad,  Travel.State.Gov (Canadian citizens should visit https://travel.gc.ca/ , for all other countries please visit your government website or local embassy), which details specific information on the countries you would like to visit, including visa requirements.

You may also use a third-party visa service. These services require an additional service fee but make the process of applying for a visa much simpler.

Note: as of August 2024, U.S. and Canadian passport holders traveling to Europe’s Schengen Zone may have to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETIAS) for travel starting in May 2025. We encourage you to verify at the official website listed below as the requirements may change. More information can be found at https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/etias/ .

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are recommended to protect one’s health from preventable diseases abroad. It is always good to have routine vaccinations up to date when traveling for ailments such as chickenpox, measles, and the flu shot. Use your own discretion when deciding on what vaccinations to have based on your preferences and personal medical history. During your Enrichment Journeys tour, the utmost care will be taken with prepared food, atmosphere and other elements, so the likelihood of contracting diseases is scarce.

For a list of recommended vaccinations based on destination, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or feel free to contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention directly at 1-800-232-4636.

Electric Current

You will need an adaptor for some parts of your trip.  To see what the plugs will look like at your destination, visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/ and click on each country from the right menu.

You may also need to use a converter. Most countries outside of North and Central America use 220-240 V, whereas the U.S. and Canada use 110 V. However, most chargers these days have a box which will act as a converter so that it can be used in all countries around the world. If your charger box says “Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz” then you do NOT need to use a converter (but you may still need an adaptor so that the plugs fit in the socket).

Some hotels may have two and three pronged outlets to use for various appliances. Ship cabins also have outlets for you to use with their converter. However, we recommend having at least one or two adaptors with you, as we cannot guarantee that all hotels will be able to accommodate this.

Local Currency

France, Spain and Portugal uses the Euro (€), currency code EUR

Bermuda uses the Bermudian Dollar, but as it is fixed to the U.S. Dollar, the U.S. Dollar is commonly accepted

Please visit https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ for the current exchange rate.

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. We suggest having at least some local currency with you during the trip, at least enough to take a taxi if needed. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is always appreciated but not always required. Expect several instances throughout the hospitality industry that allow for tipping. Have small bills ready for hotel staff, boat crew, restaurant servers, drivers, guides, and baggage handlers. If you have a meal outside the itinerary or hire a resident driver, a few dollars in the local currency is customary.

Gratuities are included for group meals, at hotels, and at airports. The host, guide, or tour manager can be tipped roughly $10-$12 USD per person, per day. Drivers can be tipped $5 USD per person, per day. To view the gratuities policy for Celebrity Cruises, please visit https://www.celebritycruises.com/faqs/gratuity-program .

For more information about when and how much to tip in each country, feel free to speak with your tour guide at the start of your Journey. A good reference for international tipping is https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2008-11-11/etiquette-101-tipping-guide .

Time Differences

Please be aware that you may be crossing through several time zones throughout your Journey. To view a time zone map, visit https://m.worldtimezone.com/m-index12.php .

With the tour covering various regions, you will most likely come in contact with warm and/or cool weather, occasional rain, wind and/or damp environments. Check the weather online before departing for an up-to-date look at the conditions in major destinations.

Many countries outside of North America use Celsius. Here is a °C to °F quick reference guide:

High/Low Temperatures in Fahrenheit:

Practice the Local Language

Knowing a few phrases in the local vernacular can be a wonderful way to connect with people and feel immersed in the culture. Here are some keywords and phrases:

France: French

• Bonjour (Boh(n)-zhoo): Hello
• Oui (wee): Yes
• Non (No): No
• Où sont les toilettes? (Oo soh(n) lay twa-let?): Where are the restrooms
• Merci (Mare-see): Thank you
• Je vous en prie (Zhuh vooz ahn pree): You’re welcome
• S’il vous plaît (Seal voo play): Please
• Pouvez-vous m’aider? (Poo-vay voo meh – day?): Can you help me?
• Au revoir (Ah reh-vwarh): Goodbye

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/french/ for more phrases with sound.

Spain: Spanish and Catalan

The region of Catalonia, including Barcelona, has two official languages: Spanish and Catalan. Although the locals understand Spanish, daily activity is conducted in Catalan and there is a fierce pride in their Catalonian heritage. The same is true for both Andorra and Palma de Mallorca. In Valencia you will see and hear both Spanish and Catalan. The phrases below overlap in both languages, but many other common phrases can different.

• Hola (OH-lah): Hello
• Si (see): Yes
• No (noh): No
• Gracias (GRAH-syahs): Thank you

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/spanish/ for more phrases with sound in Spanish.

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/catalan/ for more phrases with sound in Catalan.

Portugal: Portuguese

• Oi (oy): Hello
• Tchau (chow): Goodbye
• Sim (sing): Yes
• Não (now): No
• Por favor (PAWR-fah-VAWR): Please
• If you are a male, say Obrigado (regardless of who you are speaking to)
• If you are a female, say Obrigada (regardless of who you are speaking to)

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/portuguese/ for more phrases with sound.

Check out these interesting facts about the destinations you will visit on your Journey.

• Paris was originally a Roman city called “Lutetia”.
• The French government gives medals to citizens who have “successfully raised several children with dignity.”
• There’s only one STOP sign in the entire city of Paris.
• French toast isn’t a French cuisine. Joseph French advertised the modern toast but forgot to add the apostrophe “s.” It should have been advertised as “French’s Toast” not “French Toast.”
• Louis XIX was King of France for just 20 minutes.
• The first novel was written by a Spaniard. Cervantes’ Don Quixote , written in 1605, is considered to be the first modern novel.

eJourney Guide

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• Detailed Destination Information
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• Saint-Émilion
• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• French Riviera
• Hauts de France
• Île-de-France
• Carcassonne
• Montpellier
• Loire Valley
• Aix-en-Provence
• Rhône-Alpes

• Christmas Markets

• Multi-regional

• Food & Wine

• Exclusive Travel

• Arts & Crafts

• Shore Excursions

• Sightseeing

• Battlefields

• Walking Tours

• Special Offers
• Cherbourg-en-Cotentin

Atlantic Coast

• La Rochelle
• Le Verdon-sur-Mer

Mediterranean

• Port-Vendres
• Sanary-sur-Mer
• Saint-Tropez
• Villefranche-sur-Mer
• Shared Tours
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19 trips match your search criteria

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Learn more about tours, tours: your gateway to the enchanting loire valley.

Tours, a captivating city nestled in the heart of France's Loire Valley, beckons travelers seeking a vibrant base to explore the region's renowned châteaux, historical sites, and delectable cuisine.

Ophorus curates unforgettable experiences, ensuring your Loire Valley adventure is nothing short of magical.

Immerse Yourself in History & Culture

Cathedral Saint-Gatien: Marvel at the architectural wonder of Cathedral Saint-Gatien, a magnificent example of Gothic design. Be captivated by its soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and rich history.

Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé: Unwind amidst the tranquility of Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé. Stroll through this picturesque park, boasting formal gardens and a serene lake, offering a welcome respite from sightseeing.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours: Embark on an artistic journey at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours. Explore its impressive collection, showcasing works of art from the Renaissance period to the present day.

Place Plumereau: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Place Plumereau. This picturesque square, bustling with cafes and restaurants, is the perfect spot for people-watching and savoring a delicious meal.

Unveiling Loire Valley Treasures

Day Trip Delights: Venture beyond Tours with our meticulously planned day trips led by expert guides.

Château de Chenonceau: Be mesmerized by the enchanting Château de Chenonceau, a stunning castle spanning the Cher River. Explore its captivating gardens and architectural marvels.

Château de Chambord: Immerse yourself in grandeur at Château de Chambord, the largest chateau in the region. Marvel at its iconic double-helix staircase and awe-inspiring architecture.

Amboise: Journey back in time at the charming town of Amboise. Explore its picturesque streets and the imposing Château d'Amboise, overlooking the river.

Vineyard Tours: Discover the secrets behind the Loire Valley's acclaimed wines on a captivating vineyard tour. Visit local vineyards in Chinon & Bourgueil, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in delightful tastings.

Tantalize Your Taste Buds

La Maison des Halles: Embark on a culinary adventure at La Maison des Halles. This bustling market hall offers a treasure trove of fresh produce, local meats and cheeses, alongside cafes and restaurants catering to every palate.

Les Bocaux: Savor delectable homemade dishes using fresh, local ingredients at the cozy Les Bocaux restaurant.

L'Atelier des Augustins: Indulge in classic French cuisine with a modern twist at L'Atelier des Augustins. Housed in a beautiful 15th-century building, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience.

Rest and Recharge

Hotel Oceania: For a modern haven in the heart of Tours, look no further than Hotel Oceania. Offering comfortable rooms and a stunning indoor pool, this hotel provides the perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

Hotel de L'univers: Steeped in history, Hotel de L'univers has been welcoming guests since the 16th century. Offering comfortable accommodations and a prime location, this hotel embodies classic French charm.

Mercure Tours Centre Gare: For convenient access to the city center, consider Mercure Tours Centre Gare. This modern hotel boasts comfortable rooms, ideal for exploring Tours.

Tours and the enchanting Loire Valley await, promising a captivating blend of history, culture, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking scenery. Book your unforgettable escape today!

Reviews from our Tours trips

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