Loire Valley Castles private day tour from Paris by train
About this activity
Travel independently by high-speed train from Paris to Tours, then explore Chenonceau and Chambord with a private Loire Valley guide, premium vehicle transfers, guided château visits, free time, and return to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station.
Highlights
- Visit 2 of the most emblematic Loire Valley Castles
- Local guide, expert in Loire Valley Castles
- Possibility to purchase tickets during booking process
- Wine tasting option possible at Chateau de Chenonceau
Full description
Explore two defining Renaissance châteaux on a private Loire Valley tour by train from Paris. Travel independently by high-speed TGV train from Montparnasse to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, near Tours, where your English-speaking local guide meets you. Travel by premium air-conditioned vehicle to Château de Chenonceau, the elegant “Ladies’ Castle” spanning the Cher River, for a guided walk and free time to explore. Pause for lunch at your own expense before continuing to Château de Chambord, renowned for its vast Renaissance design and double-helix staircase linked to Leonardo da Vinci. After guided visits and time for personal discovery, return to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps for your train back to Paris.
High-Speed Train from Paris to the Loire Valley
Begin your private Loire Valley château tour from Paris at Montparnasse train station, where you board the high-speed TGV train for the journey through the French countryside. Train tickets are not included. On arrival at Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station near Tours, meet your English-speaking local guide, an expert in the Loire Valley’s châteaux.
Private Transfers and Expert Local Guide
Travel through the Loire Valley in a premium air-conditioned vehicle with your guide. This private experience combines the convenience of rail travel from Paris with local transportation and guided château visits, allowing you to focus on the architecture, history, and landscapes of the region.
Château de Chenonceau, the Ladies’ Castle
Begin at Château de Chenonceau, the graceful château known as the “Ladies’ Castle” for the influential women who shaped its history. Follow your guide through its furnished rooms, art collections, and distinctive architecture, then enjoy free time to discover the estate at your own pace. Chenonceau’s celebrated gallery stretches across the Cher River, creating one of the Loire Valley’s most memorable architectural settings.
Lunch in the Loire Valley
Pause for lunch at a local restaurant or bistro, with the meal at your own expense. This break offers time to relax and enjoy the Loire Valley atmosphere before continuing to the day’s second château.
Château de Chambord and the Double-Helix Staircase
Continue to Château de Chambord, a monumental expression of French Renaissance architecture. Join your guide for a visit of the château, including its renowned double-helix staircase, widely associated with Leonardo da Vinci. Explore the château’s grand scale and enjoy time for personal discovery before returning by premium vehicle to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station for your TGV train back to Paris.
Included / Excluded
- Pick up at train station in Saint Pierre des Corps
- English speaking local guide, expert in Loire Valley Castles
- Premium A/C vehicle
- Reservation and guided visit of Chambord Castle
- Reservation and guided visit of Chenonceau Castle
- Meals and drinks (lunch)
- Personal travel insurance, expenses
- Gratuities for the driver/guide
Itinerary
Montparnasse Station and TGV Train Departure
Make your way to Montparnasse train station in Paris and board your high-speed TGV train. Travel through the French countryside toward Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station, near Tours, the gateway to the Loire Valley.
Meet Your Guide at Saint-Pierre-des-Corps
Arrive at Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station and meet your English-speaking local guide. Set off by premium air-conditioned vehicle for a private day of château discovery in the Loire Valley.
Meeting point
Start Location
Tours train station
Gare de Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, Rue Fabienne Landy, Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, France
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operated in English
- Train travel begins at Montparnasse station in Paris.
- Train tickets are not included in the tour price.
- The guide meets you at Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station near Tours.
- The tour is conducted in English, other languages on request
Know before you go
- Allow time to locate your train platform and board independently.
- Wear good walking shoes for château interiors and estate grounds.
- Bring a light layer for changing conditions during the day.
- The local touring portion uses a premium air-conditioned vehicle.
- Return to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps for your train back to Paris.
Cancellation policy
Ophorus requires full payment to guarantee your booking. We accept payment by credit cards (Visa, Master card, American Express) or bank transfer (Wire transfer fees at the charge of the Guest). There is no charge or service fee for processing credit card payments except with American Express +3%. For any cancellation, the following fees will be deducted from the refund: Up to 22 days prior to departure > full refund except for all the non‐refundable tickets required for bookings* 21 days prior to departure and less > no refund * Cancellations fees for non‐refundable tickets - Museums or Attractions (Louvre, Orsay, Rodin, Sainte Chapelle, Conciergerie, Mont Saint-Michel Abbey …): 25 euros/person - Giverny Monet House: 25 euros/person - Loire Valley Castles: 75 euros/person - Château de Versailles: 60 euros/person - Champagne tastings : 120 euros/person - Eiffel Tower with access to the 2nd floor: 40 euros/person - Eiffel Tower with access to the 3rd floor: 55 euros/person
Reviews
Had a great time and our tour guide Lea was very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend the tour.
Valentin was very knowledgeable and engaging- we thoroughly enjoyed his tour.
A fantastic tour of the most gorgeous Alsace villages and scenery. Carlos our guide was very knowledgeable and a wonderful photo taker haha! Would highly recommend.
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Additional information
This experience is ideal for travelers staying in Paris who want to discover the Loire Valley without a full-day road journey from the capital. It suits history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and couples or small private groups drawn to the elegant river setting of Chenonceau and the ambitious Renaissance design of Chambord. The combination of high-speed rail, a private local guide, and premium vehicle touring is particularly appealing to guests who want an efficient, independently arranged train journey paired with expert local discovery once they arrive in the Loire Valley.