Things to Do in Tours

Choose from 5 Fun Things to Do in Tours

Chateau de Villandry

This picturesque castle was once an impressive fortress known as Colobier back in the 17th century. And while the towering white façade definitely says “royalty” ties to the protective past are still apparent on a visit to Chateau de Villandry.

Famous for its expansive Renaissance gardens, which include ornamental plants, water lilies and even a vegetable garden, the chateau attracts visitors from across the globe. Many argue that the geometric box hedges, reminiscent of a scene from Alice in Wonderland, and well-kept landscapes are some of the most beautiful in all of France. Perhaps that’s why this castle, which is recognized as a World Heritage Site, is one of the most visited in the country.

Practical Info

Villandry is located nine miles from Tours and both free car and bike parking is available. Admission is 10 euros for adults and 6.5 euros for garden-only access. Although the chateau’s hours are seasonal, it is typically open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Villandry, France

Adults: 10 euros; Garden: 6.5 euros

From $ 13

Château de Chambord

Château de Chambord is perhaps the most iconic of the Loire Valley castles, with its multi-gabled roof, palatial grounds and opulent interior. The 15th-century castle, which took only 28 years to build and has had no additions in the ensuing centuries, receives well over half a million visitors a year. And unlike many of the castles in the region, it's possible to spend an entire day at Chambord; there are carriage rides, boat and bike rentals, walking trails through the forest and a full calendar of programs and exhibitions throughout the year.

Of course, that's not to take away from the château itself. From its double-helix staircases to the fantastic views from the rooftop and the interiors that represent several centuries worth of decorating, Château de Chambord is what one has in mind when thinking of the castles of the Loire Valley.

Practical Info

Château de Chambord is closed on Christmas, New Year's Day and the first Thursday in February. Otherwise it's open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from April through September, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the rest of the year. It is 11 euro to enter the castle, and there is a 4-euro parking fee if arriving by car. There are bathrooms and water fountains outside the castle, and leashed animals are allowed on the grounds but not inside the castle.

Chambord, France

April-September: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; October-March: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: €11; Parking: €4

From $ 179

Chateau de Cheverny

The Château de Cheverny is an excellent choice for those looking to spend a full day at one of the castles of the Loire Valley. With extensive grounds, a cafe on site and cars and boats for rent, there's plenty to do and see after touring the exquisite castle itself. The unique aspect of this castle is that its owners have always lived here, which makes it less of a museum and more of a peek into just how one does live in a castle!

Also of interest is the Tintin exhibition. The château was used in creating Tintin's Marlinspike Hall, and there is a fantastic collection of Tintin items that bring this world-famous comic to life in its not-so-fictional home!

Practical Info

The Château de Cheverny is open daily, with hours ranging from 9:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter and spring and from 9:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the high season. An individual adult ticket for the castle and gardens is €9, and there are discounts for large families, groups, students and children over 7. Additional fees apply for use of the boats and carts that are available on the grounds. Trains to Blois, Tours, Orléans or Vendôme from Paris are as far as public transport goes; cars are best in the Loire Valley.

Cheverny, France

Hours vary

Adult: €9, Children (7-14) €6, Children 7 and under are free

From $ 231

Chateau du Clos Luce

Chateau de Clos Luce may not be the country’s grandest castle, but it’s still gained favor among art and history loving travelers thanks to its notoriety as the official final residence of famed artist Leonardo da Vinci. While the castle was once home to King Francis I, today it stands as a museum to the great painter’s works. Travelers can wander the halls and check out more than 40 models and machines designed by da Vinci, as well as wander the underground tunnel that connects Chateau du Clos Luce to the royal Chateau d’Ambroise.

Practical Info

Chateau du Clos Luce is located at 2 Rue du Clos Luce in Ambroise, about two hours from Paris and 400 meters from the Royal Chateau. It is accessible by train, car or bus. Although the castle is open daily, times vary depending on the month and season.

2 Rue du Clos Luce, Ambroise, France

Open daily, closed December 25 and January 1

Varies by season

From $ 179

Chateau d'Amboise

Situated less than 500 meters from the famed Chateau du Close Luce, Chateau d’Ambroise is connected to the former residence of Leonardo da Vinci by an underground passage. The stunning Renaissance castle looks out over the scenic Loire River and offers travelers a memorable look at the history of French royalty. Visitors can wind through the dark past of this impressive structure, which includes royal takeovers, complicated conspiracy theories and epic declines. The rich history is worthy of a tour, so travelers suggest hiring an expert guide to fully access and appreciate Chateau d’Amroise place in French history.

Practical Info

The chateau is open daily, but hours vary depending on the season. Admission fees range from 10.9 euros for adults—which includes entry and a leaflet—to 15.4 euros for a behind-the-scenes history tour.

Amboise, France

Varies

From $ 14