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Things to do in Amboise

• Biking Along the Loire River

  
  

  Cycling along the Loire River is a relaxing and scenic way to take in the charm of the region. The Loire à Vélo trail passes through Amboise and extends for miles in both directions, offering a well-maintained and mostly flat route ideal for casual riders. Bicycles are easy to rent in town, and you can set off at your own pace, stopping whenever something catches your interest. Along the way, the trail offers striking views of the river, vineyards, and open countryside.

  Riding alongside the Loire provides a peaceful experience with changing landscapes on either side. You can cycle to nearby villages like Chargé or Lussault-sur-Loire, where you may come across small cafés or restaurants for a quiet meal. For those looking to explore further, towns like Vouvray or Tours are also within reach. Whether biking for a few hours or the entire day, the freedom to stop and enjoy riverside views, local wineries, or hidden picnic spots gives a fresh perspective on the beauty surrounding Amboise. Carrying water and sun protection is recommended, especially during warmer months.

  
  

• Canoe Trip on the Loire River

  
  

  Exploring Amboise from the Loire River offers a refreshing and scenic way to take in the town’s beauty. Canoeing along the calm waters provides a peaceful experience that suits both beginners and those with more experience. As you paddle, the views of the royal château and the town's skyline appear from a unique angle, offering a perspective not visible from land. For those interested in a longer outing, the river route extends past quiet villages and medieval landmarks, making the journey both relaxing and culturally rich.

  Canoe rentals are available throughout Amboise, with options ranging from short trips to longer half-day excursions. Bringing a small picnic to enjoy on one of the riverbanks adds to the charm of the experience. Early mornings are often quieter and the soft light is ideal for photography. A waterproof bag is useful for protecting your belongings, especially if you plan to take photos along the way. Paddling through this landscape blends nature, history, and tranquility in a memorable way.

  
  

• Exploring Da Vinci's World at Clos Lucé Castle

  
  

  The Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise offers a remarkable look into the final years of Leonardo da Vinci’s life. Invited by King Francis I, the Italian polymath lived here until his death in 1519 at the age of 67. Visitors begin their tour in da Vinci’s preserved bedroom, where historical furnishings and views of the nearby Saint Hubert Chapel—his burial place—help recreate the Renaissance atmosphere of the time.

  The castle is surrounded by Da Vinci Park, a landscaped area that brings many of the inventor’s ideas to life. Spread across the gardens are forty full-scale models of his creations, including designs for flying machines, military equipment, and architectural tools. These displays are interactive, allowing visitors to better understand the scope of da Vinci’s imagination and technical skill.

  Inside the exhibition halls, guests can explore a digital gallery that features seventeen of his major works alongside original sketches. The air-conditioned space offers a comfortable place to engage with da Vinci’s diverse talents, not only as a painter but also as an architect, engineer, and designer of theatrical productions. This combination of history, creativity, and innovation makes Clos Lucé an engaging destination for learning about one of the Renaissance’s most influential minds.

  
  
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• Exploring the Royal Château d'Amboise: A Step Back into Renaissance France

  
  

  The Royal Château d'Amboise is one of the most historically significant sites in the Loire Valley. This 15th-century castle was once a favored residence of French royalty and offers sweeping views of the Loire River from its elevated position. With skip-the-line access, visitors can easily begin exploring the grounds, including the chapel that houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci. Standing in the same location where such an influential figure was laid to rest adds a meaningful depth to the visit.

  Inside, the château reveals its grandeur through elegantly restored royal apartments, open balconies, and expansive terraced gardens. A highlight of the experience is the HistoPad, a tablet that uses 3D technology to recreate how the interiors once appeared during the Renaissance. This interactive tool helps bring to life the historical events and personalities associated with the château, including the many Renaissance figures who spent time within its walls.

  The formal gardens provide a peaceful contrast to the richly decorated interiors and offer scenic views across the valley. Compared to other popular landmarks in the region, Amboise often feels less crowded, allowing visitors to move through the site at a more comfortable pace. A visit typically lasts two to three hours and includes rotating exhibitions that deepen the understanding of royal life and French history.

  
  
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• Chenonceau Castle - Loire Valley's Water Palace

  
  

  The Château de Chenonceau stands out among France’s castles due to its striking position over the Cher River. This elegant Renaissance structure is often called the "Château des Dames" because of the influential women who shaped its history, including Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici. Their legacy is reflected in both the architecture and the carefully maintained gardens. The reflection of the castle on the river creates a picturesque scene that draws visitors year-round.

  Inside, the castle reveals its past through rooms furnished with original pieces, floral arrangements, and artwork that highlight stories of royal life and political intrigue. Visitors can explore the distinct gardens designed by its historic female residents, each offering a different perspective on beauty and power. Additional areas such as the Dômes Gallery and Carriage Gallery expand the experience, while displays recount the château's role as a military hospital during World War I, adding a layer of historical significance beyond its royal past.

  To make the most of a visit, purchasing tickets in advance allows entry without waiting in line and offers flexibility in scheduling. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, enhances the tour by providing context and insight into the château’s architecture, residents, and role in French history. With its riverside charm and rich cultural legacy, Chenonceau offers a well-rounded and memorable experience.

  
  
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• Sunset Hot-Air Balloon Adventure Over Loire Valley

  
  

  Experiencing the Loire Valley from a hot air balloon at sunset offers a tranquil and memorable perspective. Departing from Amboise, the flight glides over iconic UNESCO-listed scenery, providing aerial views of well-known châteaux including Amboise, Chenonceau, and Chaumont-sur-Loire. As evening sets in, the light softens and casts a golden glow across the vineyards, forests, and gentle hills, making it an ideal time to take in the beauty of the region.

  The full experience lasts around three hours and begins with the inflation of the balloon, followed by a safety briefing. Once in the air, the flight continues for approximately an hour. During the journey, the pilot points out notable landmarks and offers commentary about the landscape below. The quiet atmosphere, broken only by the sound of the burner, adds to the calm and reflective nature of the experience.

  After landing, guests are welcomed with a glass of champagne to mark the occasion, and each participant receives a personalized flight certificate. The combination of scenic views, peaceful flight, and thoughtful touches at the end makes this outing a distinctive way to connect with the Loire Valley’s natural and historical charm.
  

  
  
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• Exploring Château de Chenonceau

  
  
  
  
  

  Located just 12 kilometers from Amboise, the Château de Chenonceau is one of the most striking castles in France. Built across the Cher River, its elegant arches reflect beautifully in the water, creating a picture-perfect view. Known as the 'Ladies' Castle,' it was shaped by influential women whose presence is still felt throughout the estate. The interiors are richly furnished, offering a glimpse into Renaissance life, with the long riverside gallery standing out for its grand design and panoramic views. The gardens are meticulously designed, including two formal layouts attributed to rival château owners Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, as well as a working kitchen garden that supplies fresh flowers used throughout the château.

  Visitors can explore the castle and grounds more freely than in many historic sites, with fewer barriers separating them from the rooms and exhibits. The château has a complex past, serving as a hospital during World War I and later playing a role in World War II as a discreet passage between occupied and free zones. With so much to see, including the gardens and historical features, a visit typically takes two to three hours. The site is accessible by car, taxi, or bicycle for those traveling from Amboise.

  
  

• La Pagode de Chanteloup

  
  

  Located just outside Amboise, the Pagode de Chanteloup is one of the more distinctive landmarks in the Loire Valley. This 44-meter-tall pagoda, designed with Chinese architectural influences, is the only surviving structure from the former estate of the Duke of Choiseul, a key figure in the court of Louis XV. Although the grand château was destroyed after the French Revolution, the pagoda was preserved and now stands in the middle of tranquil parkland. Inside, a small exhibition shares the story of the estate and displays old illustrations of the original château. Climbing the pagoda’s seven levels rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding forest and countryside, including distant views of Amboise and its castle.

  The surrounding grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere with shaded paths, a reflective pond, and a recreated Chinese garden that includes a half-moon bridge. The area is rarely crowded, which makes it a quiet and relaxing place to explore. There is a small café on site where visitors can enjoy a light refreshment while taking in the scenery. The visit usually takes one to two hours and can easily be added to an Amboise itinerary. The site is around three kilometers from the town center and is accessible by foot, bicycle, or car.

  
  

• Visit Château Royal d'Amboise

  
  
  
  
  

  Set high above the Loire River, the Château Royal d'Amboise offers sweeping views of the valley and stands as a striking reminder of France's royal past. This historic castle once housed French monarchs and dates back to the 15th century. Visitors can explore the elegant royal apartments, view original furnishings, and walk through gardens that are carefully maintained and ideal for photography. One of the most notable features of the site is the chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried.

  The château experience is enhanced by interactive displays that provide insight into Renaissance life. During the summer, evening light shows are sometimes held on-site, adding a visual storytelling element to the visit. For younger visitors, highlights include secret corridors and a spiral ramp designed for horses to ascend into the castle. After exploring the grounds, nearby cafés offer a relaxing spot to enjoy a coffee with views of the château and its surrounding landscape.

  
  

• Stroll Through Mini-Châteaux Park

  
  

  The Mini-Châteaux Park in Amboise presents a creative way to explore the Loire Valley's most iconic castles in just one visit. Featuring over 40 detailed 1:25 scale models, the park showcases the architectural charm of each château with remarkable accuracy. As you walk through the garden paths, you can admire the craftsmanship behind these replicas, each set among carefully designed miniature landscapes that maintain the correct proportions. Informational panels placed beside each model offer brief historical context, allowing visitors to appreciate how these structures evolved through different periods of French history.

  The park provides an ideal setting for photography, with unobstructed views and excellent angles for capturing the miniature buildings. Its wide, stroller-friendly paths make it accessible for families, yet the attention to detail in the models appeals just as much to adults interested in architecture and history. A visit typically takes around two to three hours, and late afternoon is an especially pleasant time to explore, offering soft natural light and fewer visitors on the grounds.

  
  

• Wine & Wonder: Cave Exploration and Tasting at Caves Ambacia

  
  

  The Caves Ambacia wine tour in Amboise offers a distinctive experience in the Loire Valley. Set inside 15th-century caves carved into limestone, this 75-minute visit combines wine education with sensory exploration. The tour begins with a smell-focused activity where guests try to identify aromas commonly found in wine, followed by a look at the wine house's vintage collection that spans over a century. Established in 1874, Caves Ambacia holds a long-standing connection to the region’s wine heritage.

  The highlight of the visit is a guided tasting led by a sommelier who introduces three to five wines, depending on your selected package. Choosing the food pairing option allows you to sample local cheeses and charcuterie, each selected to complement specific wines. The guides offer clear explanations in a relaxed setting, avoiding overly technical language. With group sizes kept small, there is time to ask questions and enjoy the experience at a comfortable pace.

  After the tasting, guests can visit the on-site boutique, which offers international shipping for those who wish to bring wines home. There is also a bistro that serves fresh Loire Valley cuisine made with local ingredients. It is a popular spot that often fills quickly during high season, so making a reservation in advance is recommended. For those looking to explore beyond historic sites, this tour offers an engaging way to connect with the region’s wine culture.

  
  
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• Mushroom Cave Tours at Cave des Roches

  
  

  Located just a short distance from Amboise, the Cave des Roches offers a fascinating underground experience in the Loire Valley. Originally carved out to extract the soft limestone used in many of the region’s châteaux, these caves have since been repurposed as mushroom farms. The guided tour leads visitors through a network of cool, dimly lit tunnels where exotic mushroom varieties are cultivated under carefully maintained conditions. The tour provides insight into the growing process, showcasing mushrooms in various stages of development, many of which are unfamiliar in shape and color.

  Beyond its agricultural interest, the site also reveals traces of its quarrying past. Intricate carvings left by former workers are still visible on the cave walls, depicting tools, local scenes, and decorative elements. The temperature remains steady at around 12 degrees Celsius, so it is advisable to bring a light jacket. After the tour, guests can browse the shop for fresh mushrooms and related products, and some visits may include tastings or cooking demonstrations. This combination of history, agriculture, and artistry offers a distinctive experience unlike other attractions in the area.

  
  

• Local Wine Tasting at Cave des Vignerons d'Amboise

  
  

  Sampling local wine is an essential part of any visit to the Loire Valley, and the Cave des Vignerons d'Amboise offers an excellent introduction. This wine cooperative brings together producers from across the region, making it easy to explore a wide range of varietals in one location. The tasting room is set within atmospheric limestone caves that naturally maintain ideal storage conditions, enhancing the experience as you taste selections like Vouvray, Touraine Sauvignon, and Montlouis. The staff create a welcoming environment and are happy to guide visitors through the tasting process in English, making it accessible to all levels of wine knowledge.

  The sparkling wines here are particularly notable for their quality and value. Since the cooperative supports many small growers, each purchase helps sustain the local wine community. Various tasting options are available depending on how many wines you wish to try, and while there is no obligation to buy, many guests choose to bring home a bottle or two. International shipping is available, or they can pack bottles securely for travel. Spending an hour or two here provides both a relaxed tasting experience and a deeper appreciation for the region's winemaking traditions.

  
  

Where to stay in Amboise

Best hotels in Amboise:

• Hôtel Le Blason (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Hôtel Le Blason is a delightful hotel located in the center of Amboise, housed in a charming 15th-century building full of historic character. Its prime location places you just steps from the Royal Castle and within a short walk of Leonardo da Vinci’s house, making it an excellent base for exploring the town’s attractions.

  The rooms are traditionally styled with a touch of modern comfort, featuring flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Though compact, they are clean and cozy. Guests appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, always ready to share local recommendations. Breakfast is simple yet delicious, with fresh bread and pastries to start the day. While there’s no on-site restaurant, plenty of great dining options are just a short walk away. Parking can be a bit tricky, so it’s worth considering alternative transportation if possible.

  
  

• Villa Mary (homestay)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Villa Mary is a charming, cozy spot located in Amboise, right in the heart of the Loire Valley. It’s ideally situated, just a short walk from the train station and only 10 minutes on foot to the town center. The rooms are inviting and well-decorated, offering comfortable beds and modern bathrooms for a pleasant stay.

  What sets Villa Mary apart is its attention to detail. The rooms are impeccably clean and feature thoughtful touches like towel warmers and free WiFi. The location is fantastic—close to major attractions like Château d'Amboise and Clos Lucé, yet on a peaceful street away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds. If you’re looking for a friendly and budget-friendly place to stay while visiting the Loire Valley châteaux, Villa Mary is an excellent choice. The hosts are warm and happy to offer recommendations for exploring the area, making it a perfect base to experience all that Amboise has to offer.

  
  

• Château De Pray (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Château De Pray is a magnificent hotel located just outside the delightful town of Amboise in France’s Loire Valley. This historic castle has been transformed into a charming hotel, offering guests a unique experience surrounded by beautiful grounds and timeless architecture.

  The rooms are elegantly decorated in a classic French style, with many featuring four-poster beds and antique furnishings that evoke the charm of a bygone era. Modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning ensure a pleasant stay. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, set against the backdrop of meticulously maintained gardens. The on-site restaurant is a treat for food enthusiasts, serving sophisticated French dishes crafted with local ingredients, making it an ideal spot for a romantic meal or celebration. Conveniently located near Amboise and offering free parking, Château De Pray serves as an excellent base for exploring the castles and vineyards of the Loire Valley.

  
  

• Hôtel Spa - Au Charme Rabelaisien (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Hôtel Spa - Au Charme Rabelaisien is a delightful place to stay in the center of Amboise. Housed in an 18th-century building, it exudes character and warmth, with spacious rooms furnished with antique pieces that create a relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the heated outdoor pool and sun terrace, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring the town.

  The hotel's location is excellent, within easy walking distance of Amboise’s main attractions. Guests consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, as well as the delicious breakfast with a wide range of options to start the day. While some of the decor has a vintage charm, the bathrooms are modern and well-equipped. It’s a fantastic choice for discovering the Loire Valley’s chateaux and experiencing the charm of Amboise.