Christmas in Touraine: our ideas for festive outings

1. For Christmas tree enthusiasts

The highlight of the festive season: Christmas in the land of châteaux

At the end of the year, the festive spirit will be in full swing at the châteaux of Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau, Chenonceau, Chinon, Loches and Villandry: it's Christmas in the land of châteaux! Magical decorations, sparkling Christmas trees and baubles, light shows, scenes inspired by fairy tales and seasonal treats: each location will enchant young and old alike. To prepare for your visit, the 3, 4, 5 or 6 castle passes and even ready-made stays to experience the event in XXL style will be available from september 2026.

A little further afield...

For more festive fun in Touraine:

• Santa's Village at Montbazon Fortress: Christmas decorations, creative workshops, an ice rink and shows bring the medieval fortress to life during the festive season. Upcoming dates in 2026.
• Magical Christmas at the Château de Candé in Monts: amid illuminations and Art Deco, Father Christmas sets up his workshop at the château. Upcoming dates in 2026.
• Christmas at Château Gaillard in Amboise: Dom Pacello's orangery sparkles with lights during the festive season and offers a range of activities such as a family treasure hunt, storytelling and Santa's tavern. Upcoming dates in 2026.
• Christmas at Château de Montpoupon: storytelling, Christmas tree decoration making and Santa Claus' arrival are all on the programme at Montpoupon! Upcoming dates in 2026.

2. For insatiable foodies

Roasted chestnuts, 100% local products, soft waffles and mulled wine to enjoy under wooden chalets: December is also the time for Christmas food markets! In Tours, numerous stalls dedicated entirely to gastronomy and winter delicacies are set up at christmas. Find all the information and events not to be missed at these markets in our article ‘Christmas: events not to be missed in Tours’.

For a quick lunch or drink, head to the La Bodega des Pistes restaurant in Montbazon or the winter village in Tours, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal... in the warmth of a real cable car cabin! A cosy atmosphere, breathtaking views and mountain spirit guaranteed, without leaving Touraine.

Another suggestion is a ‘royal’ brunch in the Orangery of the Château de Chenonceau. Here, you can enjoy refined cuisine under the large glass roofs opening onto the winter gardens before enjoying Christmas in the land of châteaux. Booking is strongly recommended at the Orangery!

And because Christmas would be nothing without chocolate, the Château de Minière in Ingrandes-de-Touraine is organising wine and chocolate tastings, in association with the Tours-based chocolate makers and roasters ‘Fèves’.

3. For those who want to see stars in their eyes

When night falls, the magic of Christmas comes to life in the streets of Tours thanks to the illuminations. There are several ways to admire them: on foot, by Fil Bleu horse-drawn carriage or during a guided night tour offered by the Tourist Office.

And for a panoramic view of the whole sparkling city, head up to the rooftop of the Central Library of Tours! Upcoming dates in 2026.

4. For artists at heart

Calling all creative minds! We have selected some workshops for you to enjoy a colourful winter!

At Prieuré Saint-Cosme, the former home of Ronsard, you can compose your own winter landscape in the form of a miniature painting to hang on the Christmas tree. This poetic interlude is open to 7-10 year olds.

For a breath of fresh air, the Château de Villandry offers a fun workshop tour on the history of Christmas in France, Spain and the United States, followed by the creation of nature-inspired decorations.

In Leonardo da Vinci's former home, the Château du Clos Lucé, creativity is expressed in all its forms: Christmas wreaths, modelling, calligraphy and discovering Renaissance tableware and spices. These free workshops, which do not require registration, offering a different way to extend your visit.

And to make your own creation, head to the Récréatives workshop Tours!

5. Offer local gifts!

The best resolution for 2026? Treat yourself and your loved ones! To do so, head to the the Tours Tourist Office shop or Tours Val de Loire Box for a 100% local gifts

Tours Val de Loire Tourist Office & Convention Bureau – 78-82, rue Bernard Palissy in Tours – open Monday to Sunday (except in January).