The castles of the Loire, majestic witnesses of the history of France, are architectural jewels located along the Loire Valley. If you have the chance to visit this emblematic region of France, here is an itinerary to discover the most beautiful castles of the Loire Valley in one day, with Euroairportshuttle as your travel partner.

Here is an example of an itinerary to visit the castles of the Loire Valley in one day

Château de Chambord – ^1st stage

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Chateau de Chambord, the largest of the Loire Valley castles. The Château de Chambord, an architectural masterpiece located in the commune of Chambord in Loir-et-Cher, is one of the most emblematic monuments of the French Renaissance. Its construction was ordered by Francis I in the early 16th century, with the aim of creating a luxurious hunting residence that would reflect the grandeur and power of the king. Built in the 16th century by Francis I, this impressive castle is a remarkable example of French Renaissance architecture. Admire its slender towers, slate roofs, and double-spiral staircase. The history of Chambord is closely linked to that of François I, who was an avid hunter and a great patron of the arts. The castle was designed by Italian architect Leonardo da Vinci, who brought his expertise and creative genius to its design. Although da Vinci died before construction began, his influence can be felt in the castle’s unique features, including its famous double-revolution staircase, which allows two people to go up and down without ever crossing each other. A fascinating anecdote about Chambord is related to its intriguing architecture. The castle is built on a plan in the shape of a Greek cross, with four towers at the corners and a central keep. However, it is often said that this particular design was inspired by the “double” number of Francis I, who was born on February 12, 1494 and believed in astrology. Some historians claim that the layout of the castle reflects the numbers 4 and 1, representing the letters of Francis’ name (F and I) and symbolizing his power. Apart from its remarkable architecture, Chambord also has a fascinating history when it comes to its people. The castle has been home to many kings and queens of France over the centuries, including Louis XIV, Louis XV and Napoleon Bonaparte. During World War II, the castle was evacuated and its artwork moved to safe locations to protect it from looting and destruction. Today, Château de Chambord is one of the most popular tourist spots in France, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world each year. Its architectural beauty, rich history, and expansive gardens make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Loire Valley. Open: Every day of the year. Ticket prices: €14 for adults, free for children under 18. Distance from Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport: about 200 km.

Château de Chenonceau – second stage

Next, head to the Chateau de Chenonceau, also known as the “Chateau des Dames.” It is a jewel of the French Renaissance located in the Loire Valley, in Chenonceaux, in the Indre-et-Loire department. Its turbulent history and elegant architecture make it one of the most visited castles in France. The construction of the castle began at the beginning of the 16th century under the direction of Thomas Bohier, treasurer of King Francis I. However, it was mainly under the leadership of women that Chenonceau gained its fame. Queen Catherine de’ Medici, who inherited the castle on the death of her husband Henri II, oversaw the expansion of the estate and the creation of the beautiful terraced gardens that line the Cher River. A famous anecdote about the Château de Chenonceau is related to the period of the Second World War. When France was occupied by the Nazis, the castle became a clandestine passage for refugees fleeing the Nazi regime to the Free Zone. The French resistance used the castle’s secret passages to get people to safety. In addition to its fascinating history, the Château de Chenonceau is renowned for its elegant architecture and picturesque beauty. It is built on the waters of the Cher, which gives it an almost fairytale appearance. Visitors can admire the richly decorated interiors, with period furniture, tapestries, and artwork that testifies to the luxury of Renaissance living. The gardens of Chenonceau are also an essential part of its appeal. Designed in a French style, they offer magnificent views of the castle and the river, with flower beds, fountains and shaded paths that invite you to take a stroll. Today, the Château de Chenonceau is open to the public and welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Its timeless beauty and captivating history make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Loire Valley region. This romantic castle straddles the Cher River and is adorned with beautiful formal gardens. Explore its ornately decorated rooms, galleries overlooking the water, and its famous arched bridge. Open: Every day of the year. Ticket prices: €16.50 for adults, free for children under 7. Distance from Paris-Orly airport: about 250 km.

Château de Blois – third stage

Continue your visit to the Château de Blois, which offers a unique architectural panorama with its four wings of different styles: medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and classical. This castle was the residence of several kings of France, including Louis XII and Francis I. The Château de Blois, located in the city of Blois in the heart of the Loire Valley, is a magnificent example of French architecture from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Its rich history and its different wings reflect the different periods of the history of France. The construction of the castle began in the thirteenth century, during the reign of Louis IX, but it was mainly from the fifteenth century that the castle was enlarged and embellished. During the reign of French Renaissance kings, including Louis XII and Francis I, the castle was transformed into a veritable royal palace. One of the most notable features of the Château de Blois is its famous Italianate façade, added by Francis I in the 16th century. This richly decorated façade is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and testifies to the influence of Italian art on France at that time. An interesting anecdote related to the Château de Blois is related to its double spiral staircase, designed by the Italian architect Leonardo da Vinci. This unique staircase ensured that people going up and down never crossed paths, ensuring the safety of the castle’s residents. In addition to its remarkable architecture, the Château de Blois also houses a museum that traces the history of the castle and the city of Blois through the ages. Visitors can discover richly decorated rooms, art exhibits, and re-enactments of life in the Renaissance. Today, the Château de Blois is one of the most visited historical sites in the Loire Valley, attracting tourists from all over the world with its fascinating history and spectacular architecture. A visit to the castle is a journey back in time through the history of France.Explore its richly furnished rooms and learn about its turbulent history. Open: Every day except January 1st and December 25th. Ticket prices: €12 for adults, free for children under 18. Distance from Beauvais-Tillé airport: about 280 km.

Château de Cheverny – last stage

Your final stop is the Chateau de Cheverny, known for its elegant architecture and perfectly preserved period furniture. This family castle has been inhabited by the same family for more than six centuries. The Château de Cheverny, a jewel of 17th-century French architecture, is located in the Centre-Val de Loire region, near the city of Blois. Known for its magnificent classical façade and immaculate gardens, the castle is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in the Loire Valley. The construction of the Château de Cheverny began at the beginning of the sixteenth century under the direction of the architect Jacques Bougier. It was completed in 1634 by Henri Hurault, Lord of Cheverny, in a classical Renaissance style that testifies to the opulence and grandeur of the time. A peculiarity of the Château de Cheverny is its perfect symmetry and its elegant façade adorned with Corinthian columns. Visitors are impressed by the beauty and harmony of the architectural ensemble, which seems to come straight out of a fairy tale. The interior of the castle is equally sumptuous, with rooms richly decorated and furnished in a Renaissance style. Visitors can admire an impressive collection of works of art, tapestries and antique furniture, testifying to the refinement and taste of its former owners. A fascinating anecdote about the Château de Cheverny is its connection to the Tintin comic strip. Hergé, the creator of Tintin, was inspired by the castle to design the famous Château de Moulinsart, the residence of Captain Haddock in several Tintin albums. Today, Tintin fans can visit the castle and discover the locations that inspired some of the famous reporter’s most iconic adventures. In addition to its fascinating history and remarkable architecture, Château de Cheverny is surrounded by beautiful French gardens. Visitors can stroll through the tree-lined walkways, admire the colorful flower beds, and enjoy the tranquility of the place. In summary, a visit to the Chateau de Cheverny is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to discover the history, art, and beauty of the French Renaissance in an enchanting setting. Whether it’s for its elegant architecture, picturesque gardens, or connection to Tintin, the castle continues to captivate and inspire visitors from all over the world. Don’t miss a visit to its formal gardens and its famous kennel, where about thirty hunting dogs reside. Open: Every day of the year. Ticket prices: €14 for adults, free for children under 7. Distance from Paris-Beauvais airport: about 300 km.

So, would you like to visit the castles of the Loire Valley in one day from Paris or elsewhere?

A one-day tour of the Loire Valley castles is an unforgettable experience that will immerse you in the history and beauty of France. With Euroairportshuttle as your travel partner, you can enjoy this excursion to the fullest without worrying about logistics. Book your transfer now and get ready to discover the treasures of the Loire Valley.