Loire Valley Castles Day Trip from Paris with Complementary Wine

Discover the Loire Valley at a relaxed, unhurried pace on this full day escape from Paris. Rather than rushing through multiple castles, this thoughtfully designed itinerary gives you more time to explore two of France's most iconic châteaux, Chambord and Chenonceau, while also enjoying free time in the charming town of Blois and a complimentary local wine experience.

From Paris, you’ll head first to Chambord Castle. Disney fans will find this castle’s turrets familiar; it was the inspiration for the castle in ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Though originally conceived as a royal hunting lodge, it was built to a scale that must be seen to be believed. You’ll learn all about the castle’s captivating history from your guide, before getting your own chance to explore. Climb a staircase supposedly designed by Da Vinci; enjoy spectacular turret-framed rooftop views; glimpse wild deer around the grounds; and work up an appetite for the next stop.

Arriving in Blois, pass by the impressive Château Royal de Blois, a former royal residence that showcases four distinct architectural styles. Your guide will point out its highlights and share insights into its role in French royal history.

Having worked up an appetite, we'll get back on the bus and on to our next stop - the quaint town of Blois, where you’ll get some free time to enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants located around the beautiful and vibrant Square Louis XII.

Last but not least is a visit to the elegant Chenonceau Castle. Your visit starts with a complementary wine tasting in the castle’s vaulted wine cellar. Then, carry on with a self-guided visit of the chapel, bedrooms and magnificent vaulted kitchens which are still furnished and decorated from times gone by, showing off the castle’s many sweeping stone carvings. Don’t miss the impressive main hall, which spans the river Cher, or the gardens cultivated by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici – two of the famous owners that earned Chenonceau the nickname ‘the Ladies’ Castle