Loire Valley Tours Castles in 2 Days

Here's a detailed itinerary for your 2-Day Loire Castles Private Tour from Paris:

Day 1: Paris – Blois – Azay-le-Rideau – Villandry or Cheverny

Morning: Paris to Blois

• 7:00 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in Paris by your English-speaking guide in a luxury van.
• 7:15 AM – 9:30 AM – Scenic drive from Paris to Blois (~2h15m). Enjoy the French countryside as your guide shares insights about the Loire Valley.
• 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM – Visit Château de Blois.
  • A favorite residence of French kings, this château showcases Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architecture.
  • Discover the grand staircase, the lavish royal apartments, and the fascinating history of Louis XII, François I, and Catherine de Medici.

Midday: Azay-le-Rideau

• 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Drive from Blois to Azay-le-Rideau (~1h30m).
• 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch in a charming local restaurant in Azay-le-Rideau (at your own expense).
• 2:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Visit Château d’Azay-le-Rideau. A stunning Renaissance château, often called a "fairy-tale castle," built on an island in the Indre River.
• Marvel at its elegant turrets, grand staircase, and lavishly decorated interiors.
• Afternoon: Villandry or Cheverny

Option 1: Château de Villandry (if you love gardens)

• 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM – Short drive to Château de Villandry.
• 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Explore the world-famous gardens of Villandry.
  • Wander through the Renaissance ornamental gardens, the water garden, and the maze-like vegetable gardens.
  • Learn about the château’s history and how the gardens were restored to their 16th-century design.

Option 2: Château de Cheverny (if you love history and interiors)

• 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Drive to Château de Cheverny (~1h).
• 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Visit Château de Cheverny.
  • One of the most lavishly furnished châteaux in the Loire.
  • Inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in The Adventures of Tintin.
  • Visit the grand dining hall, bedrooms, and the famous hunting dog kennels.

Evening: Transfer to Hotel in Amboise (or nearby)

• 6:45 PM – Check-in at your hotel (not included). Free evening to explore Amboise or have dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Chenonceau – Amboise – Chambord – Back to Paris

Morning: Château de Chenonceau

• 8:00 AM – Check out from the hotel in Amboise and depart for Château de Chenonceau (~30m drive).
• 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM – Visit the "Ladies’ Castle", one of the most romantic and elegant châteaux in France.
  • Spanning the Cher River, the château is known for its beautiful arches, grand gallery, and exquisite gardens.
  • Hear stories of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, two of the most powerful women in French history.

Midday: Amboise & Clos Lucé

• 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM – Short drive to Amboise (~30m).
• 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Visit Château Royal d’Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried.
  • Learn about the French Renaissance and enjoy breathtaking views over the Loire River.
  • Optional visit to Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s last residence.
• • Discover his inventions, artworks, and a museum dedicated to his genius.
• 12:45 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch in Amboise (own expense).

Afternoon: Château de Chambord

• 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Drive to Château de Chambord (~1h).
• 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Explore the largest and most extravagant château in the Loire Valley.
  • Marvel at its 440 rooms, double-helix staircase (designed by Leonardo da Vinci), and grand hunting park.
  • Learn about King François I’s ambitious vision and how the château remained unfinished for centuries.

Evening: Return to Paris

• 7:00-30 PM – Drop-off at your hotel in Paris.

Tour Includes:

✅ Private English-speaking guide
✅ Luxury van transportation
✅ Gas, tolls, and parking

Not Included:

❌ Entrance tickets to castles
❌ Meals & personal expenses
❌ Guide gratuities

This 2-day private tour offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and stunning landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience in the Loire Valley! ????????