Chenonceaux Château Revealed: Exclusive Walking Tour

Tours , France

Chenonceaux Château Revealed: Exclusive Walking Tour

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About this experience

Embark on a captivating 2-hour private tour of Chenonceau Palace. Begin in the meticulously manicured gardens, learning about their Renaissance-era significance. Marvel at the palace's distinctive architecture over the River Cher and discuss its strategic location and evolution. Inside, explore the stunning Grand Gallery and opulent rooms like the King's Chamber and Diane de Poitiers' Bedroom, filled with period furniture and artwork. Hear intriguing stories of royal intrigues and wartime history, including the palace’s role as a World War I hospital. Visit the beautifully preserved 16th-century chapel, then stroll through the scenic grounds, enjoying river views and picturesque landscapes. Conclude with a recap and an optional visit to the gift shop. Immerse yourself in Chenonceau's enchanting blend of art, history, and natural beauty.

Available options

Chenonceaux Château Revealed: Exclusive Walking Tour

What's included

Entrance Fees

Planned Itinerary

Limited Size group

Detailed itinerary

Begin your tour by exploring the meticulously manicured gardens surrounding the château. Admire the ornate flower beds, elegant fountains, and tranquil pathways. Learn about the garden's design and its symbolic importance during the Renaissance era.
Walk around the exterior of Chenonceau Palace, marveling at its distinctive architecture spanning the River Cher.
Discuss the strategic location of the palace, its defensive features such as the moat, and its evolution over the centuries.
Enter the Grand Gallery, a highlight of Chenonceau known for its stunning arched windows and gallery of portraits.
Explore the opulent interior rooms, including the King's Chamber, Queen's Chamber, and Diane de Poitiers' Bedroom, adorned with period furniture, tapestries, and artwork.
Hear captivating stories about the palace's illustrious residents and its role in French history, including its use as a hospital during World War I.

What's not included

Meals and Beverages

Transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

About Tours

Tours is a historic city in the Loire Valley, known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and proximity to some of France's most famous châteaux. The city offers a blend of medieval charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the Loire Valley.

Top Attractions

Château de Villandry

A stunning Renaissance château known for its beautiful gardens, including the famous ornamental gardens and vegetable gardens.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €11.50 (adult), €6.50 (child)

Tours Cathedral

A beautiful Gothic cathedral with a rich history, featuring stunning stained-glass windows and intricate stonework.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

A fine arts museum housed in a former bishop's palace, featuring a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Museum 1-2 hours €7 (adult), Free for EU residents under 26

Jardin Botanique de Tours

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a wide variety of plants, greenhouses, and a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Place Plumereau

A charming medieval square in the heart of Tours, surrounded by half-timbered houses, cafes, and restaurants.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rillettes de Tours

A traditional pork pâté made with shredded meat and fat, slow-cooked and served as a spread.

Appetizer Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Tarte Tatin

A famous upside-down apple tart with a caramelized top, originating from the Loire Valley.

Dessert Vegetarian (if made with butter and sugar only)

Chinon Wine

A red wine from the nearby Chinon region, known for its fruity and earthy flavors.

Drink Contains alcohol, not suitable for those avoiding alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Loire Valley Cycling along the Loire River Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting Picnicking in the gardens Spas and wellness centers Visiting châteaux Exploring historic streets

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities and exploring the châteaux.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken (Many people in the tourism industry speak English, but it's helpful to know some basic French phrases.)

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe (Tours is generally a safe city, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.)

Tours is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to be vigilant and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Tours Val de Loire Airport • 6 km from city center
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport • 250 km from Tours

By train

Tours Centre

By bus

Tours Centre Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Fil Bleu bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Vieux Tours (Old Town) Les Fontaines Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire

Day trips

Château de Chambord

40 km from Tours • Full day

One of the most famous châteaux in the Loire Valley, known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and vast forest.

Château de Chenonceau

30 km from Tours • Full day

A stunning château spanning the Cher River, known for its elegant architecture and beautiful gardens.

Amboise

25 km from Tours • Half day to full day

A charming town in the Loire Valley, known for its beautiful château, historic streets, and proximity to other attractions.

Festivals

Tours International Jazz Festival • October Fête de la Musique • June 21 Tours en Fête • July

Pro tips

Visit the local markets, such as the Marché des Halles de Tours, for fresh produce, cheeses, and specialty foods.
Explore the historic streets and neighborhoods of Tours, such as Vieux Tours (Old Town) and Les Fontaines.
Take a day trip to the nearby châteaux, such as Château de Villandry, Château de Chambord, and Château de Chenonceau.
Sample local wines and visit the vineyards of the Loire Valley, such as those in Chinon and Vouvray.
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Tours International Jazz Festival and the Fête de la Musique.