Tours
Experience the Loire Valley Your Way: Private 4-Day Package with Tailored Experiences
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multi-day tours
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Cultural
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04 days
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Small Groups ( 2~6 )
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Relaxed
- Highlights
- Program
- Prices
- Accommodation
- Know before
- Meeting point
- FAQ
Highlights
- The Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit Loire Valley Renaissance Castles & Historical Towns
- Guided tours of Chambord & Chenonceau Castles
- Taste Loire Valley wines in Bourgueil & Chinon vineyards
Program & Itinerary
The Loire Valley: Enchanting Private Tours Await
Step into a fairytale on a private tour of the Loire Valley! Explore France's "Garden of France" with our bespoke itineraries, led by passionate local guides. Discover captivating castles, charming villages, and world-renowned wines.
Craft Your Dream Loire Valley Escape
Tailor-Made Itineraries: Choose iconic castles like Chambord and Chenonceau, or explore hidden gems beyond the crowds. We design the perfect tour for you.
Uncork Local Flavors: Savor the Loire Valley's acclaimed wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to bold Cabernet Francs. Indulge in expert-led wine tastings.
Unwind in Comfort: Relax with seamless transportation, comfortable accommodation in Tours, and expert guidance throughout your journey.
Immerse Yourself in Culture: Explore charming markets, visit artisan workshops, and sample the region's delectable cuisine and exquisite crafts.
Unforgettable Experiences
Fairytale Castles: Witness the grandeur of Chambord, the romantic allure of Chenonceau, and discover hidden gems like Villandry or Azay-le-Rideau.
Wine Regions: Explore vineyards in Bourgueil, Chinon, or Saumur-Champigny, learning about local grape varietals and savoring tastings.
Charming Towns & Villages: Wander through the picturesque streets of Tours, Amboise, or Blois, soaking in the region's rich history and local charm.
Cultural Delights: Immerse yourself in local markets, discover artisan workshops, and savor the Loire Valley's renowned gastronomy.
Book your private Loire Valley tour today and embark on a magical journey!
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day 1
ARRIVAL TRANSFER FROM TOURS TRAIN STATION
Pick up in Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps Train Station. Transfer to your centrally located hotel in Tours and check in. Night at your hotel.Pick up in Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps Train Station. Transfer to your centrally located hotel in Tours and check in. Night at your hotel.Read moreRead less -
day 2
VISIT LOIRE VALLEY CASTLES OF CHENONCEAU & CHAMBORD
Breakfast at your hotel9.30am Pick up at your hotel. Morning guided tour of Chenonceau CastleThe “Chateau des Dames”, bridge built across the Cher, is famous for the great feminine figures who lived in it (Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici) and for the beauty of its French Renaissance architecture and gardens.The...Breakfast at your hotel
9.30am Pick up at your hotel.
Morning guided tour of Chenonceau Castle
The “Chateau des Dames”, bridge built across the Cher, is famous for the great feminine figures who lived in it (Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici) and for the beauty of its French Renaissance architecture and gardens.
The original Château dates back to the 13th century but was later torched and rebuilt to be finally taken by King Francis I as a debt. The next most important owner was Diane de Poitiers, mistress of Henri II, who transformed the building and added the arched bridge that spans over the River Cher. After the king's death, the Chateau became the property of Catherine de Medici who expelled Diane de Poitiers.
During her time at the Château as owner, Catherine de Medici spent large amounts of money for renovation and embellishments and was known to house spectacular night time parties. It is here that in 1560, the first ever fireworks took place in France.
After the death of Catherine de Medici, the Château passed into several hands including that of Louise Dupin famous for hosting a literary salon that was attended by some of the most famous figures of the time including Voltaire, Montesquieu, Buffon or Marivaux. Famous philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau was Louise Dupin's secretary and tutored her son.
In more recent history, the castle was bought in 1913 by Henri Menier whose family was famous as chocolate makers and the Chateau de Chenonceau is still in their possession today.
After your arrival at Chenonceau castle, begin your guided tour with our professional tour guide. Chenonceau is home to an outstanding collection of furniture, tapestries and paintings that included artworks from Rubens, Tintoretto, Van Loo, Murillo, Veronese, Poussin, Van Dyck and many more.
Also, during your tour, you will visit the highlights of the castle including Diane de Poitiers' bedroom, the Green Study, the Gallery and the kitchens.
Free time for lunch in a local restaurant (at own expense)
Afternoon Guided tour of Chateau Chambord
The Castle of Chambord is considered as one of the most beautiful Chateaux of the Loire Valley. After a short drive of about 1 hour, reach the stunning Château de Chambord. Listed since 1981 as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Chambord is without a doubt one of the most fascinating Loire Valley Castle to visit.
Located in the heart of the Sologne region of France, Château de Chambord was the desire of King Francis 1 (François 1er) who ordered the construction in the early 16th century. Built as a hunting lodge, the castle was not designed to be a permanent residence for the King who only stayed within the castle a few weeks every year.
The architecture of the Château is a good example of the Italian Renaissance style that was prized at the time and Château de Chambord was in fact built to impress foreign visitors and ambassadors and demonstrate the power of the young king of France.
The Castle is laid out around a central keep that includes for massive bastion towers at each corner. All in all, Chambord is home to more than 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces and 84 staircases. The plan of the castle has for the central axis the famous double helix staircase that was presumably inspired by the work of the great genius Leonardo da Vinci.
The two helices ascend the three floors without ever meeting, illuminated from above by a sort of light house at the highest point of the chateau. Another highlight of the visit is the ornate roof that makes the Chateau so recognizable. When you reach the top level of the Chateau, you can walk between the towers and admire the enormous attention to detail in the masonry work.
King Francis 1st never actually saw the castle finished and it wasn't until the reign of King Louis XIV (the Sun King) that the building was actually completed. The sheer size of Château de Chambord makes it a difficult place to maintain and after being owned by different persons close to royalty, it is finally preempted by the French State who becomes the sole owner as of 1930.
Upon arrival, follow your guide for a guided walking tour of the Castle. The tour will last around 1 hour and your guide will lead you through the main rooms, will show you the famous double spiral staircase and take you to the top of the Castle to the terraces where you will have a great view of the surrounding area. After the visit, you will have some free time to discover the Castle of Chambord on your own.
5.30pm Drop off in Tours and night at your hotel.Read moreRead less -
day 3
LOIRE VALLEY WINE TOUR IN BOURGUEIL & CHINON VINEYARDS
Breakfast at your hotel.9.30am Pick up at your hotelFull day Loire Valley Wine TourThis morning, we will come and pick you up at your hotel or accommodation in Tours. Meet your guide at your hotel or accommodation in Tours. Once you have met your guide, he will go over the...Breakfast at your hotel.
9.30am Pick up at your hotel
Full day Loire Valley Wine Tour
This morning, we will come and pick you up at your hotel or accommodation in Tours. Meet your guide at your hotel or accommodation in Tours. Once you have met your guide, he will go over the program and itinerary of the day with you. Then, board your comfortable, air conditioned Mercedes minivan and begin to make your way to the Loire Valley wine producing region.
All our vehicles are equipped with an on board P/A system which means that everyone will hear the guide's commentary during driving time, even if you are seated in the back of the van! Also, we have bottled water at your disposal and you can use our free wifi as you travel from one destination to another.
Morning wine tasting tour in the Bourgueil wine region
The Loire Valley is not only famous for its Renaissance castles, but also for its wines. To kickstart the day, this Loire Valley wine tour will first take you to the town of Bourgueil. Indeed, this charming small town is surrounded by vineyards producing wines typical from the region.
Here, the diversity of soils gives the wines a delicate and fruity taste. Wines from the Loire Valley can be consumed young or aged depending on the vintage.
Your guide will take you to a traditional winery, where you will learn about wine production from the grape to the bottle. After the tour, you will be able to taste different wines produced by the winery and, if you wish, you will be able to buy your favorite one to bring it back home.
Stop in Chinon for a short walking tour & lunch (at own expense)
After that, this Loire Valley tour will take you to Chinon, a picturesque town with preserved medieval half-timbered houses and Renaissance townhouses. Chinon is dominated by its medieval fortress, which is actually made of three castles.
The Chinon castle used to be the residence of Henry II of England. Other historic events taking place in the Chinon castle were the death of Richard the Lionheart, as well as Joan of Arc persuading King Charles VII to fight the English invasion of France.
You will have the privilege to visit the town accompanied by your private guide who will tell you about the history of Chinon and its castle in greater detail. You will have time to stroll the streets and stop for shopping at any time you want. At lunch time, your guide will indicate the best places to try some local specialties in Chinon.
Afternoon wine tasting tour in the Chinon wine region
Around this area, you will mainly find red wines from different qualities. Head to a winery for a visit and wine tasting session. While you are there, take some time to fully appreciate the beautiful view over the vineyards around you. You will also have a chance to buy some red Loire Valley wine from the winemaker.
After your wine tasting session, return to Tours.Read moreRead less -
day 4
DEPARTURE TRANSFER FROM HOTEL TO TOURS TRAIN STATION
Breakfast at your hotel and return transfer to the train station of Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps.End of our services.Breakfast at your hotel and return transfer to the train station of Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps.
End of our services.Read moreRead less
Prices
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3* Hotel Option
From € 920.00-
Base 2 persons in double room sharing
1295€ p/p -
Base 4 persons in double room sharing
915€ p/p -
Base 6 persons in double room sharing
790€ p/p -
Base 8 persons in double room sharing
725€ p/p -
Single supplement
320€
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4* Hotel Option
From € 920.00-
Base 2 persons in double room sharing
1425€ p/p -
Base 4 persons in double room sharing
1045€ p/p -
Base 6 persons in double room sharing
920€ p/p -
Base 8 persons in double room sharing
855€ p/p -
Single supplement
430€
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Accommodation
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Ferdinand Hotel (or similar)
In the heart of Tours, near the Saint-Martin basilica, the Ferdinand Hotel offers a chic and cozy atmosphere for a stay in all serenity near the Old Tours, ...In the heart of Tours, near the Saint-Martin basilica, the Ferdinand Hotel offers a chic and cozy atmosphere for a stay in all serenity near the Old Tours, its shops, or its restaurants, guinguette and entertainment.
Completely renovated in 2021 the Ferdinand Hotel combines publisher's furniture, designer lighting,
deep and current colors in a warm and upscale style.It is also a place where you feel right at home. A place where you come with family or friends to let go, a place that breaks free from classic hotel codes.
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Hotel de l'Univers (or similar)
This stylish hotel is a 3-minute walk from the Jardin de la Préfecture, a 10-minute walk from the fine arts exhibitions at the Musée des ...This stylish hotel is a 3-minute walk from the Jardin de la Préfecture, a 10-minute walk from the fine arts exhibitions at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours, and an 11-minute walk from the Basilique Saint Martin.
The rooms are simple yet sleek, with pale wooden floors. Some add bright floral accents for a chic touch. All have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, and some rooms have whirlpool tubs, pull-out sofas and Nespresso coffeemakers. Room service is available.
A breakfast buffet is offered for an additional fee. There's a bar and classic restaurant that serves traditional French and regional dishes, along with a business center.
Show moreShow lessShow 4 medias
Know before you book
- Tour available from April to end of October
- Tour is operated in English, other languages on request
- Prices are per person - based on the number of travelers
- Tour is not wheelchair accessible
Meeting point
Departure
Return
FAQ
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What type of vehicles are used during your Loire Valley private tours?
Our company uses only premium cars or minivans for all our private tours in France. All vehicles include individual A/C, shaded windows and large leg room. -
Who conducts your private tours in the Loire Valley?
All our tours are conducted by English speaking local guides, experts in the destination where they are based. Most of them are fully licensed guides that are authorized to make commentaries in museums, monuments and historical city centers. In the wine regions, most of them hold the WSET level 2 in wines & sprits or are professional sommeliers. Finally, we are proud to mention that we work essentially with our own in-house guides. -
Should I stay in Tours or Amboise on this Loire Valley private package?
Tours is a mid sized city, whereas Amboise is one of those charming small towns of France. Both make for great departing points to visit the Loire Valley Castles or Loire Valley vineyards.
Tours
The city of Tours is a pleasant town to stay in. Like all cities of France, it offers a wide range of attractions and sightseeing opportunities. It also possesses a large number of bars & restaurants for those of you wishing to experience local delicacies or wish to have a drink in the evening. Since Tours has a large University, the student population is important and the evening ambiance can be quite festive.
Amboise
This charming small town is famous for its castle that overlooks the Loire River. The population is less than 15 000 but in the summer months of July & August this can be multiplied by 2 due to the high number of French or foreign tourists that stay in town. Since this is a small town, the number of sightseeing options are not as important as in Tours and the number of restaurants is more limited. The town tends to ' fall asleep' past 9.00pm.
Your choice will really depend on the time of the year you are traveling and what exactly you would like to do on your evenings. If you want to travel far from the crowds then avoid Amboise in the summer months, Tours will be much more accessible with all the students having left and most French on holiday. If you want to visit major landmarks and have a large choice of activities and dining options, then Tours should be your choice. -
What can we expect on this Loire Valley private package?
This package highlights some of the most famous Renaissance Castles of the Loire Valley. Your guide is an Expert of the Loire Valley and you will be able to take in all the rich history this region has to offer. Your tour includes the visit of Chambord, Chenonceau, Blois, Amboise, Clos Lucé and Cheverny including the entrance tickets. This means that you will not have to wait in line! -
Can we modify the program of this private Loire Valley package?
Yes, absolutely. As this is a private tour just for you and your party, you can modify the program and adapt it to your wishes. Contact our team of travel experts and let them know what you would like to modify and they will do the rest. We will need to have a final program established before the 1st day of your tour.
Then, once your tour begins, you can also adapt the itinerary of the day directly with your guide. Please note however that if you decide not to take part in an activity or visit that was included on your tour, the fees of the activity will not be refunded. -
Can we choose which Loire Valley Castles we will visit during private travel package?
Yes, absolutely. We have included the visits of our selection of Loire Valley Castles in this program but if you would like to include some specific Castles just reach out to our team of travel experts and they will do the rest. They will re-design the tour and adapt it to your wishes including the Castles that you have required to visit. -
Are lunches included on this Loire Valley private small group package?
In general, we never include lunch on our private packages unless there is a local restaurant we believe that it would enhance your experience in the region you are visiting. The tour will stop in an area where there will be different options. You can can also ask your guide on each morning to give you some recommendations for the day.
It is possible for us, if you wish, to include lunch during your days of touring with us. Just reach out to our team of travel experts and they will do the rest. We will pre-book local restaurants adapted to your budget and that highlight the local cuisine. -
Is this private Loire Valley Travel Package tour only available in English?
No, we have guides that speak fluently other languages. If you would like a private tour in another language don't hesitate to get back to us and we will let you know if your language is available in the region you are visiting.
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