Paris is always a good idea! There’s so much to see and do, so many museums, galleries, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and so much more. But, with the Loire Valley just a short distance away, close enough for a day trip – you really don’t want to miss out on seeing some of the most beautiful castles in the world. And the good thing is, it’s easy to to it without a car. Just hop on the train to Tours, and join a tour.
Day trips to the Loire Valley
To make your day trip to the Loire easy and doable – we recommend Ophorus Tours. Hop on a train from Paris to Tours, the quickest way to reach the Loire Valley 200km away. Trains take from just one hour 8 minutes – and there are 20 trains a day. From the Tourist office in Tours, a 5-minute walk from the station, Ophorus organise tours to the most beautiful Loire Valley Chateaux and to the vineyards where a wine tasting is included.
These are small group tours with transport to the parts of the Loire Valley that are not so easy to reach by public transport or take too much time to get to. You’ll get skip the line access. And a local English speaking guide will accompany you to make your visit the very best it can be. You’ll then be dropped back at Tours to take the train back to Paris.
Chateau de Chambord
The Chateau de Chambord is monumental. It was intended to reflect the almighty power of the King of France, Francois I. It worked then as it does now. Unique architecture, the memorable rooftop with its many towers and turrets. If you only have time to visit one chateau in the Loire Valley – this one is the grandest (and Chenonceau, below, is the prettiest). Chambord boasts 440 rooms. Numerous staircases including a famous double-helix staircase said to have been inspired by Leonardo da Vinci who lived close by in Amboise. The grandeur of this castle is quite breath-taking. And, since it’s so easy to reach from Paris – don’t miss out! Find out more and book the tour: ophorus.com/chambord
Chateau de Chenonceau
Visit one of the most beautiful, elegant and enchanting castles in France. The Chateau de Chenonceau, in the heart of the Loire Valley, is approached by a majestic tree-lined drive. At the end of the walkway, before you lies some of the most incredible architecture in the world. The splendour is quite overwhelming with towers and turrets and a unique arched gallery that crosses the river Cher, where Kings and Queens once danced.
This is a masterpiece of Renaissance architectureEvery room is filled with gorgeous floral displays, produced by the onsite florist, awarded title of the best florist in France. The rooms are sumptuously decorated. The gardens are magnificent. This is a must-visit castle if you’re in Paris! Find out more and book the tour: ophorus.com/chenonceau
Day trip to the Loire Valley Vineyards and Chinon
If you long to see the famed Loire Valley vineyards, taste the wine where it’s made, and visit an ancient town with a majestic fortress – then take a day trip from Paris! After you arrive in Tours, meet your guide at the tourist office and you’ll be whisked away in comfort to visit a Loire Valley domaine and enjoy a wine tasting. No need to worry about driving!
Then you’ll go to the city of Chinon, dominated by its royal fortress. Wander the ancient cobbled streets lined with medieval houses, a favourite resort of French Kings and their nobles. You’ll have time to stop for lunch in the gorgeous town before heading off back to the vineyards for another wine tasting at a different winery. Wine tastings include red, white and sparkling wines. And you’ll be back in Paris in time for dinner! Find out more and book at ophorus.com/loirevalleywinetour
