From Paris: Loire Valley Castles Private Day Tour

Exploring the enchanting Loire Valley castles from Paris promises an unforgettable day. This private tour immerses visitors in the region’s rich history, from the grandeur of Chambord to the architectural marvel of Chenonceau. With an experienced driver-guide and comfortable transportation, travelers can discover these iconic landmarks at their own pace, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a glimpse into France’s past, this tour offers an opportunity to experience the true essence of the Loire Valley.

Key Points

• A private day tour from Paris that visits four iconic Loire Valley castles, including Chambord, Amboise, Clos Lucé, and Chenonceau.
• Priced at $679.72 per person for a 14-hour tour, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes E220 or minivan used for transportation, with a professional driver/guide.
• Highlights include the French Renaissance architecture of Chambord, da Vinci’s residence at Clos Lucé, and the "ladies’ castle" of Chenonceau.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private day tour from Paris to the Loire Valley castles offers guests an immersive experience in the region’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Priced from $679.72 per person, the tour lasts 14 hours and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle transports guests on the 180 km drive to visit the iconic Châteaux de Chambord, d’Amboise, du Clos Lucé, and de Chenonceau.

With skip-the-line access and a professional driver/guide, this tour provides an in-depth exploration of the Loire Valley’s architectural marvels.

Transportation and Comfort

Travelers embark on this Loire Valley tour in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes E220 or Mercedes minivan.

The transportation includes:

• A professional driver/guide to ensure a smooth and informative journey

• Bottled water provided to keep hydrated during the approximately 2.5-hour drive covering 180 km

• A comfortable ride in a climate-controlled vehicle, allowing for relaxation and enjoyment of the scenic countryside along the way.

The transportation and comfort features of this tour are designed to prioritize the convenience and enjoyment of the participants throughout their day exploring the magnificent Loire Valley castles.

Château De Chambord

The Château de Chambord is the first castle visited on the Loire Valley tour. It’s known for its iconic French Renaissance architecture, built from 1519 to 1547.

The castle features an astounding 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 84 staircases, including a famous double-spiral staircase. Visitors spend about 1.5 hours exploring this architectural masterpiece, marveling at its grandeur and historical significance.

With a short drive time from Paris, the Château de Chambord provides an impressive start to the day’s castle tour through the picturesque Loire Valley.

Château D’amboise

After visiting the grand and imposing Château de Chambord, the tour moves on to the Château d’Amboise, a residence of King Charles VIII showcasing a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

The highlights include:

• The grand château, with its distinctive towers and turrets, overlooking the Loire River

• The site where Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked for the last three years of his life

• The Gothic chapel where the Italian polymath was laid to rest

Visitors can explore the château’s opulent interiors and stunning riverside setting during the 75-minute visit.

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Lunch Break

Where does the tour provide a lunch break for participants?

After visiting Château d’Amboise, the tour schedule includes a lunch break from 13:15 to 14:15 in the city of Amboise.

The tour provider offers assistance with restaurant reservations during this break. This allows guests to enjoy a leisurely lunch and recharge before continuing the castle tour.

With the next stop at Château du Clos Lucé not until 14:20, the lunch break provides a perfect opportunity for participants to sample local cuisine and take in the charming ambiance of the historic Amboise city center.

Château Du Clos Lucé

Following the visit to Château d’Amboise, the tour schedule includes a stop at Château du Clos Lucé, which served as Leonardo da Vinci’s residence for the last three years of his life.

Visitors can explore this museum dedicated to the renowned inventor’s life and work, including:

• Exhibits showcasing da Vinci’s engineering designs and innovations

• Interactive displays demonstrating his groundbreaking ideas

• Recreations of his living quarters and work spaces

The visit to Château du Clos Lucé provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the remarkable mind and legacy of Leonardo da Vinci.

Château De Chenonceau

The tour schedule then moves on to Château de Chenonceau, known as the "ladies’ castle" for its significant feminine history and stunning Renaissance-style architecture.

Visitors can explore the castle from 16:00 to 17:30, admiring its beautiful gardens with over 130,000 flowering plants.

Visitors can explore the castle from 16:00 to 17:30, admiring its beautiful gardens with over 130,000 flowering plants.

The château is renowned for its feminine history, having been owned and influenced by several prominent women, including Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers.

Guests can marvel at the remarkable Renaissance architecture and learn about the castle’s storied past during the allocated time slot before departing for the return journey to Paris.

Return Journey

At 17:30, the tour departs Chenonceau and begins the return journey to Paris.

The travel time is approximately 3 hours (245 km), and guests will be dropped off at their hotel by 21:00.

Some key details about the return journey:

• The comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle continues the drive back to the city.

• Bottled water is provided for the journey.

• The professional driver/guide accompanies the group throughout the return trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Castles?

Customizing the itinerary is possible, as the tour is private. Guests can request to visit specific castles or modify the included sites by communicating their preferences with the tour provider prior to the tour date.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request additional time at the castles or add other stops along the route. This is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Accommodations for Children?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children are welcome, though booster seats/car seats are not provided. Special accommodations like baby strollers can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are not allowed to bring their own alcoholic drinks or food on the tour. However, bottled water is provided. Any special dietary needs should be communicated to the tour operator in advance.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour With a Smaller Group Size?

The private day tour from Paris to Loire Valley Castles offers a private tour option, but the tour group size is not specified. Guests may want to inquire about smaller group sizes when booking.

Recap

Discover the enchanting Loire Valley on a private day tour from Paris. Visit iconic castles like Chambord, Amboise, Clos Lucé, and Chenonceau. Enjoy guided tours, soak in the rich history, and take in the stunning landscapes. With hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a professional driver/guide, it’s a seamless and comfortable way to explore this picturesque region.

You can check if your dates are available here: