Things to do in Loire Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Loire Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
The Loire Valley is famed for its magnificent châteaux that line the river and define the landscape.
Château de Chambord
A colossal Renaissance masterpiece with a double helix staircase and vast grounds.
Château de Chenonceau
The Château des Dames spans the Cher River and features exquisite gardens.
Château d'Amboise
Royal residence perched above the Loire, with panoramic views and royal tombs nearby.
Château de Villandry
Renowned for its Renaissance architecture and famous ornamental gardens.
Museums
Cultural institutions span fine art, literary heritage, and magical histories across the valley.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
A fine-art collection housed in the historic center of Tours.
Maison Balzac (Saché)
Exhibition on Honoré de Balzac in his beloved residence near Tours.
La Maison de la Magie (Blois)
A whimsical museum dedicated to the art of magic with interactive displays.
Religious Monuments
Ancient abbeys and cathedrals reveal the region’s medieval spiritual life.
Cathédrale Saint-Gatien de Tours
A Gothic cathedral with striking towers dominating Tours' skyline.
Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud
A vast royal abbey complex set in the Loire Valley, linked to medieval religious reform.
Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d'Angers
A monumental Gothic cathedral in Angers with rich stonework.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and animal encounters add outdoor dimension to the valley.
Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine
A protected landscape preserving the Loire corridor and its towns.
ZooParc de Beauval
One of France's top zoos, home to a wide array of wildlife.
Jardin du Chaumont-sur-Loire
Iconic riverside gardens featuring seasonal designs and sculpture.
Neighborhoods
Historic cores invite strolls through medieval lanes and riverside vibes.
Vieux Tours
The old quarter of Tours, full of timbered houses, cafés and markets.
Vieille Ville de Blois
Charming medieval lanes surrounding the royal château.
Centre historique d'Amboise
Picturesque town center with riverside walks and cafés.
Free Things to Do
Experience the region without an entry fee with scenic walks and open spaces.
Promenade le long des bords de Loire
Stroll along the riverbanks and enjoy sweeping views.
Explore the historic centers on foot
Wander the streets of Tours, Blois and Amboise at your pace.
Stroll through public gardens such as Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé
Tranquil green spaces perfect for a leisurely break.
Gastronomy
The region pairs world-class wines with distinctive cheeses and regional specialties.
Pouilly-Fumé wine tasting
Sample crisp Sauvignon Blancs from the Loire’s Pouilly region.
Sancerre wine tasting
Enjoy the famed Sauvignon Blancs from Sancerre’s vineyards.
Sainte-Maure de Touraine cheese tasting
Try the region’s classic goat cheese with its edible straw skewer.
Nightlife
Evenings bring bars, live music and riverside strolls in several towns.
Evening ambiance in Tours’ historic center
Lively bars and cafés cluster around Place Plumereau.
Saumur riverfront nightlife
Pubs and live music along the Loire in the town by the water.
Nighttime river cruises on the Loire
Seasonal boat trips offer a different way to see the valley.
Entertainment
The valley hosts theatres, shows and cultural venues across its towns.
Grand Théâtre de Tours
A historic venue hosting plays, concerts and performances.
Chambord seasonal light shows
Evening illumination events set against the château’s silhouette.
Sports
Outdoor adventures abound along the Loire’s waters and paths.
Canoeing/kayaking on the Loire
Paddle the calm stretches through gentle rapids and scenic towns.
Loire à Vélo cycling route
Bike trips along the Loire with family-friendly sections.
Ballooning over the Loire Valley
Soar above vineyards and châteaux for panoramic views.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the usual highlights with these lesser-known experiences.
Troglodyte villages of Turquant
Explore ancient troglodyte dwellings carved into soft rock.
Balzac’s Maison in Sache
Visit the writer's preserved home and exhibitions near Tours.