Loire Valley Day Trip – Chenonceau & Chambord Most Iconic Castles
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6h - 8h
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About this experience
Two iconic Loire Valley castles in one unforgettable day trip from Paris.
Embark on a memorable day trip from Paris to the Loire Valley, where fairytale châteaux rise above peaceful rivers and royal forests.
Discover Château de Chambord, the largest and most majestic castle in France — a masterpiece commissioned by King Francis I, with its double-helix staircase, panoramic terraces, and elegant royal apartments.
Then continue to the romantic Château de Chenonceau, known as the Ladies’ Castle, where Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici once left their mark. Walk through its flower gardens, admire the graceful arches over the River Cher, and enjoy the refined beauty that makes Chenonceau one of the Loire’s most beloved gems.
This journey through France’s royal heartland combines architecture, history, and pure enchantment — an experience you’ll remember long after you return home.
Available options
Loire Valley Day Trip – Chenonceau & Chambord Most Iconic Castles
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Entrance fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Castle is one of the most recognisable châteaux in the world because of its very distinctive French Renaissance architecture which blends traditional French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures. The building, which was never completed, was constructed by Francis The First, King of France.
Chambord is the largest château in the Loire Valley; it was built to serve as a hunting lodge for Francis I, who maintained his royal residences at the Château de Blois and Amboise. The original design of the Château de Chambord is attributed to Italian architect Domenico da Cortona; Leonardo da Vinci may also have been involved or influenced the design.
2
Stop 2
The Château de Chenonceau is a French castle spanning the river Cher, near the small village of Chenonceaux, Indre-et-Loire. It is one of the best-known châteaux of the Loire Valley.
The estate of Chenonceau is first mentioned in writing in the 11th century. The current château was built in 1514–1522 on the foundations of an old mill and was later extended to span the river. The bridge over the river was built (1556-1559) to designs by the French Renaissance architect Philibert de l'Orme, and the gallery on the bridge, built from 1570 to 1576 to designs by Jean Bullant.
What's not included
Lunch
Photo tax
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.
Top Attractions
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Museum
3-4 hours
€17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)
Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.
Historical
Full day
€18-€28 (depending on the pass)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Croissant
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Baguette
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains gluten
Steak Frites
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat
Crêpes
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
Snack/Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides
Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest
Kayaking on the Seine
Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden
Boat tours on the Seine
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a cabaret show
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon
By bus
Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot
Getting around
Public transport
The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Le Marais
Montmartre
Latin Quarter
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Champs-Élysées
Day trips
Versailles
17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.
Giverny
75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day
Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.
Château de Fontainebleau
55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual)
Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual)
Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
- Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
