Day excursions

The day will begin with a visit to Château de Chenonceau, a historic gem spanning the Cher River, surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers. You will then have free time for lunch in Amboise (not included), before visiting the Clos Lucé, the residence of Leonardo da Vinci. Finally, you'll explore the prestigious Château Royal d'Amboise, a royal retreat and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.   Our team will accompany you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.   After this fascinating day, Val de Loire Travel will return you to your departure point (your accomodation or the Tourist Office).

Discover the Loire Valley and visit its 2 most prestigious castles in one great day: impressive Château de Chambord and stunning Château de Chenonceau. Learn about the intimate little secrets of the French Kings who once lived there. Enjoy off-the-crowd panoramic views thanks to your local guide, benefit from wealth of thrilling genuine details and funny anecdotes and make the most of this exciting day. Program: 9.00am: Departure from Tours. Meet your friendly guide in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours (just in front of the train station). Everybody's here? Let’s start the day! 9:30am: Start in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours, and get into our minivan, off to Chenonceau! Next step is Château de Chenonceau! On the way, get a good look at lovely privately owned châteaux but also other must-see castles of Loire Valley such as: Cheverny, Chaumont, Amboise, Montrichard... Chenonceau: this is the most visited historical monument in France after Château de Versailles. Admire this stunning chateau and its unique gallery, built on a bridge across the Cher River. With your guide, stroll through the gorgeously-manicured gardens à la Française named after the famous ladies who lived there: "Catherine de Médicis" and "Diane de Poitiers". Once inside, take your time to appreciate the refined architecture and feminine influence that prevails in each room of this renowned chateau, all decorated with beautiful antiques and the most divine fresh flower arrangements. The kitchens, the Queen bedroom, the Gallery... your tour guide will show you all the beautiful rooms of this incredible place. Lunch: Free time More than a chateau, this work of art is a glorious historical place that will take you to the heart of the Loire Valley and the Renaissance era. Your guide will make this trip back in time a fun and captivating experience. He will tell you everything about the history of the castle, built by the famous King François 1er. Unforgettable! Once inside, your guide will select for you the most emblematic rooms to visit: the double helix staircase, the chapel, the terrace...He will also share with you memorable anecdotes and point at hidden details of interest and breathtaking views of the château. So get ready to travel back in time of French Renaissance! After this exceptional visit, your tour-guide will advise you some spots to get a impressive view of the chateau. A spectacular day you will never forget. 5.30pm: Back to the Tourist Office in Tours

Your quest for authenticity will begin with a visit to the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, known by experts as the jewel of the Loire Valley. You'll enjoy lunch in the heart of a vineyard, in an enchanting setting, with a meal crafted from seasonal local produce, paired with organic wine from the estate. The highlight of the day will be exploring the Château de Villandry and, above all, its gardens, among the most renowned and admired in France.

Whether you're a lover of heritage, nature or simply looking for an original getaway, this day promises to be a real trip back in time! 9:30 Departing from the Tourist Office, treat yourself to a magical day on board a comfortable minibus, exploring four of the Loire Valley's most fascinating gems: Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry and Langeais. Let yourself be seduced by... ... the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, a fairytale castle set in lush greenery. Its Renaissance architecture and gardens will transport you back in time, while offering exceptional panoramic views. ... the Château and gardens of Villandry, renowned for its sumptuous formal gardens. Each flowerbed and avenue of greenery tells a story, and you'll be amazed by the precision and elegance of this unique place. Lunch at the Château de Villandry restaurant. Then off to... ... the Château de Langeais, a medieval fortress that plunges you into the history of royalty. Its imposing towers and architecture will take you back in time, with fascinating stories of royal marriages and court intrigues. 16:30 Return to Tours by minibus. End of the tour. Depending on the minibus schedule, the excursion programme may be subject to change. Departures are guaranteed from 2 people, a refund will be made if the number is not reached.