Chenonceau & Chambord Castles: A Royal Journey Through History
About this activity
Visit two of the most famous castles of the Loire Valley on a small-group day trip from Tours. Discover the majestic Château de Chambord and the elegant Château de Chenonceau, two masterpieces of Renaissance architecture.
Highlights
- Visit the magnificent Château de Chambord
- Discover the elegant Château de Chenonceau
- Explore two masterpieces of Renaissance architecture
- Learn about French royal history and Renaissance culture
- Small-group experience (max 8 guests)
Full description
Discover two of the most iconic castles of the Loire Valley on this full-day small-group tour from Tours. Begin with a visit to the spectacular Château de Chambord, the largest castle in the Loire Valley and a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture commissioned by King Francis I in the 16th century.
Famous for its remarkable towers and unique double-helix staircase inspired by Renaissance design, Chambord reflects the ambition and artistic vision of the French monarchy.
Continue to the elegant Château de Chenonceau, one of the most romantic castles in France, gracefully spanning the River Cher. Built in the early 16th century and shaped by influential women such as Catherine de Médicis and Diane de Poitiers, the château is often known as the “Ladies’ Castle.”
Combining extraordinary architecture, history and beautiful landscapes, this tour offers a complete introduction to the heritage of the Loire Valley.
Discover the Majestic Château de Chambord
The Château de Chambord is one of the most recognizable castles in France. Commissioned by King Francis I in 1519, it represents the height of Renaissance ambition and architectural creativity. The château combines medieval defensive elements with Renaissance elegance and is famous for its elaborate roofline and remarkable central staircase believed to have been influenced by the ideas of Leonardo da Vinci. Surrounded by a vast forest estate, Chambord was originally designed as a royal hunting lodge and a symbol of royal power.
Explore the Elegant Château de Chenonceau
The tour continues to the Château de Chenonceau, one of the most graceful castles in the Loire Valley. Built between 1513 and 1517, the château spans the River Cher with its famous gallery bridge. The castle is closely associated with the women who shaped its history, including Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis, which is why it is often referred to as the “Château des Dames.” Visitors can explore beautifully furnished rooms, art collections and magnificent gardens overlooking the river.
A Jewel of the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is renowned for its extraordinary concentration of castles and historic landscapes, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage cultural landscape.
A Perfect Day Trip from Tours
This small-group tour offers travelers the opportunity to visit two of the most famous castles of the Loire Valley while enjoying scenic countryside along the Loire River.
Included / Excluded
- Transportation in premium air-conditioned minivan
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Entrance tickets to Chambord Castle
- Entrance tickets to Chenonceau Castle
- Small group experience (max 8 guests)
- Personal travel insurance and expenses.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Meals and drink (lunch)
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
Itinerary
Meeting point
Meet your guide
Visit Château de Chambord
Stop at Chateau de Chambord and guided tour with your guide. Free time to explore on your own.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the Tours Tourism office.
Important information
Know before you book
- Instant booking confirmation
- Tour is operated in English
- Prices are per person
- Children under 4 years old are not allowed on the tour
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible
Know before you go
- Departs from Tours Tourism Office
- Please be ready 10 minutes before departure time
- Moderate walking during castle visits
- Wear good walking shoes
- Photography allowed in most areas
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are non-refundable.
Reviews
Great experience, guide was super knowledgeable and friendly. Victor brought us around the different sites and showed us so many cool sites
Alex was the most experienced, knowledgeable, and chilled tour guide of all the 5 tour guides we experienced. We learned a lot from him about the culture, history, and geology of the region. He also provided great context to understand the regions' wines. This tour to Cassis and the calanques was beautiful and would get a 5 stars if it weren't for the fact that this expensive tour did not include lunch. The wine tasting was good but I had better in Bordeaux and it included lunch.
Matt was an awesome tour guide. His passion for D-day made the experience that much better. He was very knowledgeable. Even my children were glued to his every word. Great experience!
Additional information
The Loire Valley contains hundreds of castles built during the Renaissance when French kings and nobles transformed the region into a center of culture and architecture.
Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle.