Itinerary for 7 day trip to Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a stunning region in France, known for its beautiful châteaux, charming villages, and delicious wines. Traveling without a car is totally doable, and I’m excited to help you plan a delightful 7-day itinerary. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in

Morning: Arrive in , the gateway to the Loire Valley. Check into your hotel and freshen up. has a lovely old town, so take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of the , where you can grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café.

Afternoon: Visit the and explore the . The museum has a fantastic collection of art, including works by famous artists.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local bistro. Try some regional specialties like rillettes or a delicious tarte Tatin for dessert!

Day 2: Amboise and

Morning: Take a train from to Amboise (about 20 minutes). Once you arrive, head straight to the . This stunning castle offers breathtaking views of the Loire River and has a fascinating history, including ties to Leonardo da Vinci.

Afternoon: After exploring the château, visit the , where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last years. The gardens and exhibits are delightful!

Evening: Stroll through Amboise’s charming streets and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to try some Loire Valley wine!

Day 3: Chenonceau and Villandry

Morning: Take a bus or train to (about 30 minutes from Amboise). This château is famous for its beautiful gardens and the way it spans the Cher River. Spend the morning exploring the grounds.

Afternoon: After lunch at a nearby café, head to (you may need to take a bus or taxi). The gardens here are some of the most beautiful in France, and you can easily spend a few hours wandering through them.

Evening: Return to Amboise for dinner. Try a local wine bar for a cozy atmosphere!

Day 4: Blois and

Morning: Take a train to Blois (about 30 minutes from Amboise). Start your day at the , which has a rich history and stunning architecture.

Afternoon: Explore the town of Blois, including the , dedicated to the magician Robert-Houdin. It’s quirky and fun! Grab lunch at a local café.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Blois. The town has a vibrant dining scene, so you’ll have plenty of options!

Day 5: Cheverny and Chambord

Morning: Take a bus or taxi to (about 30 minutes from Blois). This château is known for its beautiful interiors and the inspiration for Tintin’s Marlinspike Hall.

Afternoon: After exploring Cheverny, head to (you can take a bus or taxi). This iconic château is a must-see, with its impressive architecture and vast grounds. Don’t forget to climb to the top for a panoramic view!

Evening: Return to Blois for dinner. Try some local cheese and charcuterie to pair with your wine!

Day 6: Saumur and

Morning: Take a train to Saumur (about 1 hour from Blois). Once you arrive, head to the , which overlooks the Loire River. The views are spectacular!

Afternoon: Explore the town of Saumur, known for its troglodyte caves and wine production. You can visit a local winery for a tasting or explore the (Tank Museum) if you’re interested in military history.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Saumur. The town has a lovely atmosphere, especially in the evening!

Day 7: Return to and Departure

Morning: Head back to (about 1 hour by train). Spend your last morning picking up any souvenirs or enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a café.

Afternoon: If time allows, visit the or the for a bit of culture before you depart.

Evening: Depending on your travel plans, enjoy a final dinner in , reminiscing about your wonderful week in the Loire Valley!

Tips:

Make sure to check train and bus schedules in advance, as they can vary.
Consider purchasing a regional pass for discounts on attractions and transportation.
Don’t forget to try the local wines, especially the whites from Vouvray and the reds from Chinon!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in the Loire Valley! If you have any questions or need adjustments, just let me know! Safe travels! 🌍✨