What to do in Centre-Loire Valley

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Château de Chambord

The Château de Chambord is an enormous castle renowned for its French Renaissance style mixed with medieval features. A forest and a park surround the 16th-century castle in a rural setting near the Cosson River. Enjoy the picturesque views of the region and the Disneyesque castle with tall turrets.
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A historic building with a large tower and multiple spires, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and trees.

2. Château de Chenonceau

Stand in awe as you view the magnificent Château de Chenonceau spanning the River Cher and examine the exquisite oil works within its extensive gallery. Meander down halls of period furniture into ornate, secluded rooms and explore the vast landscaped gardens.
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A grand castle with multiple towers and turrets, surrounded by a white fence and tall trees.

3. Chateaux de la Loire

As you travel through the Loire, see how many of the area’s more than 300 châteaux you can find. Some of these structures, from as early as the 10th century, have lasted through multiple occupations and wars, while others are relatively new, built in the 1800s.
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A meticulously landscaped garden with geometric hedge mazes, a central water feature, and a stone bridge.

4. Château de Villandry

Walk beside intricately shaped hedges and long avenues of yew and lime trees at Château de Villandry. Admire the grand fort that stands at the center and look at the superb paintings and lavish décor inside.
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A formal garden with geometric patterns, a large castle, and a clear sky.

5. Bourges Cathedral

Stand in awe of the sprawling buttresses and vast towers of Bourges Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St Étienne of Bourges. Admire carvings that tell Biblical tales in rich detail and climb to the highest tower to enjoy spectacular views.
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A historic church with intricate architecture and a tall bell tower.

6. Royal Château of Blois

Famous as the site of the blessing of Joan of Arc’s banner, the Château de Blois consists of a row of rustic structures of various architectural styles. Its façades incorporate features from the Renaissance, classic and Gothic schools. The site also has several art and history museums. The château, which played a major role in the political history of the region, has hundreds of rooms, nearly all with fireplaces. Embark on a self-guided tour around the majestic rooms of the buildings.
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A richly decorated bedroom with a large bed, ornate columns, and patterned walls.

7. Château de Cheverny

Of the castles in the Loire Valley, the Château de Cheverny stands out for its exceptional architecture, devoid of any Renaissance touch. This large white castle features a classical style with a gray roof and symmetrical aspects.
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A large, historic building with multiple domes and towers, surrounded by well-manicured lawns.

What to do in Centre-Loire Valley

Stay near popular Centre-Loire Valley attractions

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Château de Chambord

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Marvel at the majestic design of this medieval castle, explore its grounds in a horse and carriage and venture into the woods.
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Where to stay in Centre-Loire Valley

Find the best Centre-Loire Valley areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Centre-Loire Valley
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Tours City Centre

Tours City Centre is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Place Plumereau and Saint Martin Basilica.

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Bourgogne

If you're spending some time in Bourgogne, Place de la Loire and Les Halles Châtelet are top sights worth seeing.

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, with its twin towers and intricate Gothic architecture.

Centre-Ville

While you're in Centre-Ville, take in top sights like Place du Martroi and jump on the metro at République Tram Stop to see more of the city.

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Old Town Tours

Old Town Tours is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Saint Martin Basilica and Place Plumereau.

A large, historic building with a symmetrical facade, a central clock tower, and a well-manicured lawn.

La Fuye-Velpeau

While La Fuye-Velpeau isn't home to many top sights, Tours Fine Arts Museum and Château de Tours are some notable places to visit nearby.

 

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