Your Essential Travel Guide to the Loire Valley
Things To Do In Loire Valley
The Loire Valley in France is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its majestic chateaus and stunning countryside. Step into a world of fairy-tale castles, delectable French wines, and enchanting landscapes that will leave you mesmerised. Lose yourself in picturesque villages as you explore the rich history and culture of this outstanding region.
There's an endless array of activities and attractions to discover in the Loire Valley. History buffs will delight in visiting museums and exploring the magnificent French chateaux that are scattered throughout the region. For the wine connoisseurs, indulge your senses with wine-tasting at beautiful vineyards where you can savour the flavours of world-renowned varieties and blends.
Adventurous travellers can enjoy cycling along the scenic Loire River, while those looking for a bird's eye view can take a breath-taking hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes below. No matter your interests, the Loire Valley offers something for everyone.
Be sure to check out GetYourGuide for the top attractions and activities to see and do in Loire Valley.
Tours in Loire Valley
Experience the best of the region with one of the many tours available in Loire Valley. You could even take advantage of one of the many tours in and from the city of Tours! An excellent base for exploring the Loire Valley, Tours has been an important cultural centre since the Middle Ages and is home to many historic sites.
Wine enthusiasts can enjoy unique experiences like Château de Chenonceau's starlit events, where you can taste exquisite wines under the night sky. For a more immersive experience, opt for a full-day trip to local wineries in the Bourgueil wine region, with the opportunity to try local delicacies, see the wine making process and soak up the atmosphere of the Cabernet Franc grape vineyards.
Visiting the Loire Valley provides the perfect opportunity to visit Nantes, a bustling city nestled on the banks of the Loire River approximately 2 ½ hours’ drive from Tours. Take a leisurely guided tour of the city to uncover its secrets, or purchase a Nantes City Card Pass to explore all of its attractions, from the Château des ducs de Bretagne to the Natural History Museum.
Camping in Loire Valley
Camping in Loire Valley provides a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known areas of the region, giving visitors a chance to discover its hidden gems and reconnect with nature. There are plenty of family-friendly campsites in Loire Valley to choose from, offering everything from basic amenities like hot showers and laundry services, to more luxurious options with private bathrooms and access to pools.
A great option is Les Alicourts Loire Valley, which promises campers a five-star experience in the heart of nature. Located on a 60-hectare estate, the campsite features a lake surrounded by lush forests and fields.
Loire Valley Castles
Experience the breath-taking castles of the Loire Valley – a must-see for every traveller visiting the area! Discover over 300 magnificent structures that range from 10th-century wonders to splendid residences built centuries later. As French kings erected their grand châteaux, the elite of society followed suit, bringing together the best architects and landscape designers.
Get ready to be transported to a world of grandeur and beauty at Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau, admire the magical gardens of Chateau de Villandry, step into history at Chateau of Amboise, and marvel at the Royal Chateau in Blois. Each castle offers unique features and captivating stories waiting to be uncovered. Visit during the spring or autumn season for the best experience, when the crowds are thinner, and the gardens are in full bloom.
