Getting around the Loire Valley

Whether you’re chasing fairytale castles or cruising vineyard roads, here’s how to get around the Loire Valley by car, train, bus, or tour—each with its pros, routes, and tips.

Best for: Flexible explorers, families, and road-trippers keen to reach remote châteaux and villages.

Timings & availability: You drive on your schedule. Available daily in cities like Orléans, Tours, Blois, and at airports. Book ahead during peak season.

Where to start/stop: Pick-up/drop-off at train stations, airports, or city centers. Parking is widely available at châteaux.

The Loire Valley is perfect for road trips. Roads are scenic, signage is clear, and distances are manageable.
Driving lets you stop at charming towns, vineyards, or gardens en route. Typical trips cover 3–5 castles over 3–6 days.
GPS is a must—some remote areas have patchy mobile service. Fuel and tolls are additional costs to consider.

🔁 Pro tip: Combine car rental with a stay in a château hotel or vineyard B&B for the full countryside escape.

Best for: Eco-conscious travelers, solo explorers, and those visiting popular towns or castles with nearby stations.

Frequency & timings:

TGV: Paris to Tours or Angers in ~1 hour, multiple departures daily.
TER regional trains connect Orléans, Blois, Amboise, Saumur, and Nantes throughout the day.
“Train Vélo Loire” (summer only): 3 daily round trips for cyclists between Orléans and Nantes.

Nearest stops: Stations in Orléans, Blois, Tours (St-Pierre-des-Corps and Tours Centre), Saumur, Angers, and Nantes.

Trains are fast, clean, and reliable—great for covering large distances. Most tickets can be booked online or at the station; validate paper tickets before boarding.
Some castles like Chenonceau have train stations right outside the entrance. Others (like Chambord) require a shuttle or taxi from the nearest town.

🚲 Bonus: Traveling with a bike? "Train Vélo Loire" lets you ride the scenic Loire à Vélo trail with train support in summer.

Best for: Budget travelers and those filling gaps between train stops and remote châteaux.

Frequency & timings: Limited regional bus service between towns; often only a few trips per day. For example: SNCF bus from Port Boulet to Tours runs 5x a week, ~every 4 hours. Seasonal shuttles connect some châteaux to nearby train stations during summer.

Nearest stops: Stops in town centers, train stations, or near château entrances—check local timetables.

Buses are affordable but slower and less frequent than trains.
Timings can be sparse on weekends or holidays—planning ahead is essential.
Local tourism offices (e.g., in Blois, Amboise) often list seasonal shuttles to major castles.

📍 Tip: Use Rome2Rio or local transport apps for updated schedules and connections.

Best for: First-timers, limited-time visitors, and anyone who wants a stress-free, informative experience without driving or planning.

Frequency & timings: Daily departures from Paris, Tours, Amboise - morning departures, returning late afternoon/evening. Options include half-day, full-day, and multi-day itineraries.

Nearest stops: Pick-up points at train stations, central hotels, or designated spots in major towns.

Tours cover 2–3 castles in one day, including entry tickets, skip-the-line access, and an expert guide.
Some also include wine tastings or lunch at local restaurants. Small-group and private tours offer a more personal experience.
Best booked in advance—especially in high season.

🌟 Bonus: No need to worry about driving, parking, or navigating rural roads—just sit back and soak in the stories.

Things to do at the castle

International Gaden Festival

An annual festival that welcomes global landscape artists and designers to transform the castle’s gardens into a living canvas of creativity. Visitors learn new concepts of horticulture and gardening, in addition to enjoying a unique sensory experience.

Centre for Arts & Nature

Explore contemporary art installations and multimedia exhibits which transform the castle grounds into an open-air museum. The centre celebrates the fusion of nature and creativity, providing an immersive experience for visitors.

The guard room

Adorned with 15th and 19th-century armour and weapons, including Ottoman pieces gifted by the Maharaja of Kapurthala, the guard room served several purposes over the years. It was a security entrance, a space for weaponry training, and a vantage point overlooking the drawbridge and inner courtyard.

Catherine de Medici room

Named after the queen who bought the castle in 1550 for profit, this space may have served as a state room, dining room, bathroom, or reception area. It features the castle’s oldest tapestry, The Story of Perseus and Pegasus, woven in Tournai in the late 15th century.

Council chamber

Renowned for its Planets and Days tapestry and Sicilian majolica floor tiles, this was the official state room, used for important events such as audiences, judgements, and feasts. Fully furnished today, it reflects the grandeur of the 16th century.

Private apartments

Home of the Broglie family who owned the castle between 1875–1938, it was historically remodelled in 2007, leading to the rehabilitation of the Great Salon, Library and Dining Room—making it one of the Loire Valley’s most richly furnished castles.

The chapel

A small, hexagonal chapel featuring stained glass windows, contemporary art installations, and the council chamber with Sicilian majolica floor tiles.

The stables

Horses were of prime importance in the 19th century, used for hunting. Two stables were built—a larger one was for the family and a smaller one for guests.

Plan your visit

By season: The castle is open every day at 10am and closes between 5:30–7pm, depending on the season. The last entry is one hour before closing time.
Closed on: January 1 and December 25.
Best time to visit: During the International Garden Festival, which runs from April–November.
Recommended duration of visit: 3–4 hours while visiting during the garden festival. Otherwise, 2 hours.

Check complete monthly schedule

Address: Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, 41150 Chaumont-sur-Loire, France. Find on Maps
From Paris

By train: Board from Paris Montparnasse to St Pierre-des-Corps, then transfer to Onzain station. Travel time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
By bus: Board from Paris Quai de Bercy to Blois, then transfer to a local shuttle service.
Travel time: 3 hours and 24 minutes
By car: Drive on the A10 motorway and take exit 18. Free parking is available in the village of Chaumont-sur-Loire.
Travel time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

A free car park is available at the castle’s south entrance, in the village, and along the Loire River. Access from the car park to the castle is a climb up the hill.

Detailed directions to Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle

Local transport

By train: Board from Blois to Onzain station, which is 4 km from the castle.
Travel time: 30 minutes
By shuttle service: Board an Azalys-operated shuttle from Blois.
Travel time: 10 minutes
On a bicycle: Via La Loire à Vélo route from Blois to Chaumont-sur-Loire.
Travel time: one hour

Locker facility
Pushchair storage
Baby facilities
Seating areas inside the castle and its surroundings during the garden festival
Restaurants
Boutique
Free parking

Parking: Six designated parking spaces are available at the south entrance.
Access: Entry is free for visitors with disabilities (requires presentation of proof); their accompanying person may qualify for a reduced rate.The castle’s ground floor, courtyard, chapel, and boutique are wheelchair-accessible. Adapted restrooms are located in the stables.
Services: Wheelchairs are available for rental. A Braille visitors' guide is available upon request. Adapted guided tours are available for small groups, upon request and reservations. Recliner chairs and benches throughout the castle and the grounds during the garden festival.

Le Grand Chaume: Located 300 meters from the castle at Hotel Le Bois des Chambres, this Michelin-rated restaurant offers a refined, seasonal menu crafted by Chef Guillaume Foucault. Try their Poached pigeon with quince and leek. Budget for two: €80–€110
Le Grand Velum: Situated within the castle grounds, this restaurant features a glass-roofed dining area and offers a gourmet menu inspired by the International Garden Festival themes. It is open seasonally from April to November. Budget for two: €60–€70
Le Comptoir des Tilleuls: Located near the castle’s entrance, this casual eatery offers a selection of regional dishes made with local and organic ingredients. Enjoy Assorted local cheeses with fresh bread. Budget for two: €30–€40
Le Café du Parc: Set within the castle’s grounds, this cafe serves light meals, pastries, and beverages, perfect for a mid-visit break. Try theirQuiche Lorraine with a side salad. Budget for two: €20–€30
L'Estaminet: A traditional French bistro offering a variety of classic dishes in a cozy setting. Try Coq au vin with seasonal vegetables. Budget for two: €35–€45

Le Bois des Chambres: ~600 m (8‑min walk) Charming boutique B&B with garden terrace, free parking, and a restaurant on-site. Ideal if you want comfort just steps from the château.
Les Hauts de Loire (Relais & Châteaux): ~4 km (6‑min drive) Luxury country lodge with spa, Michelin-starred restaurant, pool, and elegant gardens. Perfect for a romantic or indulgent stay.
Le Motu Loire: ~1.1 km (14‑min walk) Comfortable and budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and garden views. Great for a peaceful, no-fuss night near the Loire.
Au Ginkgo: ~1 km (12‑min walk) Warm, well-rated guesthouse with thoughtful hosts—they even store bikes—and tasty breakfast. Ideal for a cozy stay near the château.
Gîte La Chaumonière: ~1 km (11‑min walk) Self-catering cottage with garden and private feel—great for families or those wanting a home-away-from-home vibe.

Security checks are mandatory.
Larger bags and suitcases are prohibited on-site.
Pets are allowed in the gardens but on leash. They are not allowed in the castle, the French gardens, or the stables.
Guide dogs are allowed throughout the estate.

Arrive before 10:30am to enjoy the gardens and château peacefully before crowds roll in—especially during the Garden Festival (April to Nov).
Prioritize the gardens—they’re the real stars, with new artistic designs each year. Let yourself wander.
Bring a picnic! There’s a lovely picnic area by the south entrance or quiet spots near the lake.
If visiting in summer, stay for evening events like the candlelit “Magical Nights” or the “Gardens of Light”—they’re stunning.
For unique château photos, cross the river for the best panoramic shots—sunrise and sunset light work wonders.
Accessibility is decent—wheelchairs available on request, with marked routes and lots of benches.
Dogs are welcome in the gardens and park (but not inside the château).

Explore Loire Valley’s most innovative château reimagined yearly through ever-changing garden art.

Everything you get: Skip the ticket line and explore Chaumont’s storybook towers, historical apartments—like the famous guard room and the so-called Catherine de Medici room—and expansive parklands with Loire views. From Apr 19 to Nov 2, enjoy the world-renowned International Garden Festival with 30+ avant-garde landscapes, plus seasonal programs and art exhibits.
Why choose this: Set your own pace as you explore the perennial garden art, bold art installations, and richly restored château interiors—a rare blend of heritage and creativity.

Inclusions

Skip the ticket line entry
Access to the International Garden Festival from April 19—November 2, 2025
Cultural programs and events (subject to availability)

Exclusions

Guided tours

Audio guides
Transportation

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
The castle and gardens are wheelchair-accessible.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Animals are not allowed on site, except for guide dogs.
Languages spoken on-site are English and French.

These tickets are valid until 2 November, 2025.

Plot your Loire fairy-tale—one château at a time

Chaumont-sur-Loire sits right in the middle of château country. You’re just a short drive from big names like Chenonceau, Chambord, and Amboise—each offering something different: garden art, royal drama, or Renaissance flair. Whether you're day-tripping or planning a full route, Chaumont pairs perfectly with nearby castles. Here's how to mix and match them for the most rewarding detours.

Plan your route

Pair your Chaumont visit with another Loire Valley gem—choose from Chambord, Chenonceau, or Blois Castles.

Everything you get at Chaumont: Step into a fairytale world where Gothic towers meet modern creativity. Explore the 15th-century château, wander Catherine de Medici’s room, and discover reimagined royal apartments. Outside, roam the acclaimed International Garden Festival (Apr–Nov), where up to 30 themed gardens push the boundaries of landscape design. Inside the château, contemporary art installations bring bold new energy to historic halls.
Everything you get at your chosen castle: Pick your second stop: climb the twin-helix staircase at Chambord, stroll Chenonceau’s arched bridge over the Cher, explore the Gothic-to-Renaissance wings of Blois, or return to Chaumont-style gardens with a twist. Each ticket comes with skip-the-line access—so you can see more, wait less.
Why choose this: Pair Chaumont with a second must-see château in the Loire Valley—no juggling bookings or lines, and up to €12 saved when booked together.

Inclusions Chamount-sur-Loire

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the International Garden Festival from April 9—November 2, 2025
Cultural programs and events (subject to availability)

Chenonceau Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Multilingual visitors' brochure (available in 18 languages)

Chambord Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to temporary exhibitions
Multilingual visitor's guide
A 20-minute movie about the castle translated into English, Spanish, German, and Italian

Royal Blois Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the royal apartments and the Museum of Fine Arts
Multilingual visitor's guide (available in 14 languages)

Exclusions

Guided tours

Audio guides
Transportation

Chaumont-sur-Loire

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person. Also, for children under 18 years can enter for free.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Animals are not allowed on site, except for guide dogs.
Languages spoken on-site are English and French.

Chenonceau Castle

The castle, restrooms, restaurants, shops, and gardens are wheelchair-accessible.
Leashed dogs are allowed in the gardens, and small dogs should be carried; guided dogs are allowed throughout the estate.

Chambord Castle

There is low connectivity within the castle; download your tickets in advance.
The ground floor is wheelchair-accessible; upper floors have elevators.
Pets are not allowed inside the castle, gardens, and stables; they are in the park, on a leash.
Guide dogs are allowed through the entire estate.
Since this is a historic site, certain rooms are exceptionally closed to visitors.
Autumns and winters are exceptionally cold inside the castle. Plan accordingly.

Royal Blois Castle

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Children under 13 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
No animals are allowed on site except guide dogs.

These tickets are valid until 2 November, 2025.

See 3 iconic castles in one day—save on entry and skip the lines across the Loire.

Everything you get: Enjoy a self-paced tour of a cliffside château with medieval towers and Renaissance flair. Step through historic rooms once tied to Catherine de Medici, then experience bold landscape art at the seasonal Garden Festival (Apr–Nov).
Everything you get at your 2 chosen castles: Pick two to round out your trio- Climb Chambord’s famous double-helix staircase and walk its rooftop terraces. Cross Chenonceau’s river bridge—one of the Loire’s most romantic châteaux. Explore Blois’s mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and royal drama across centuries.
Why choose this: Flexible three-castle ticket lets you dive deeper into the Loire’s royal legacy—no multiple bookings, no ticket counter waits, and up to €20 saved versus booking separately.

Inclusions Chamount-sur-Loire

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the International Garden Festival (seasonal)
Cultural programs and events (subject to availability)

Chenonceau Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Multilingual visitors' brochure (available in 18 languages)

Chambord Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to temporary exhibitions
Multilingual visitor's guide
A 20-minute movie about the castle translated into English, Spanish, German, and Italian

Royal Blois Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the royal apartments and the Museum of Fine Arts
Multilingual visitor's guide (available in 14 languages)

Exclusions

Guided tours
- Audio guides
- Transportation

Chaumont-sur-Loire

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Animals are not allowed on site, except for guide dogs.
Languages spoken on-site are English and French.

Chenonceau Castle

The castle, restrooms, restaurants, shops, and gardens are wheelchair-accessible.
Leashed dogs are allowed in the gardens, and small dogs should be carried; guided dogs are allowed throughout the estate.

Chambord Castle

There is low connectivity within the castle; download your tickets in advance.
The ground floor is wheelchair-accessible; upper floors have elevators.
Pets are not allowed inside the castle, gardens, and stables; they are in the park, on a leash.
Guide dogs are allowed through the entire estate.
Since this is a historic site, certain rooms are exceptionally closed to visitors.
Autumns and winters are exceptionally cold inside the castle. Plan accordingly.

Royal Blois Castle

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Children under 13 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
No animals are allowed on site except guide dogs.

These tickets are valid until 2 November, 2025.

Pair your Chaumont visit with another Loire Valley gem—choose from Chambord, Chenonceau, or Blois Castles.

Everything you get at Chaumont: Step into a fairytale world where Gothic towers meet modern creativity. Explore the 15th-century château, wander Catherine de Medici’s room, and discover reimagined royal apartments. Outside, roam the acclaimed International Garden Festival (Apr–Nov), where up to 30 themed gardens push the boundaries of landscape design. Inside the château, contemporary art installations bring bold new energy to historic halls.
Everything you get at your chosen castle: Pick your second stop: climb the twin-helix staircase at Chambord, stroll Chenonceau’s arched bridge over the Cher, explore the Gothic-to-Renaissance wings of Blois, or return to Chaumont-style gardens with a twist. Each ticket comes with skip-the-line access—so you can see more, wait less.
Why choose this: Pair Chaumont with a second must-see château in the Loire Valley—no juggling bookings or lines, and up to €12 saved when booked together.

Inclusions Chamount-sur-Loire

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the International Garden Festival from April 9—November 2, 2025
Cultural programs and events (subject to availability)

Chenonceau Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Multilingual visitors' brochure (available in 18 languages)

Chambord Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to temporary exhibitions
Multilingual visitor's guide
A 20-minute movie about the castle translated into English, Spanish, German, and Italian

Royal Blois Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the royal apartments and the Museum of Fine Arts
Multilingual visitor's guide (available in 14 languages)

Exclusions

Guided tours

Audio guides
Transportation

Chaumont-sur-Loire

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person. Also, for children under 18 years can enter for free.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Animals are not allowed on site, except for guide dogs.
Languages spoken on-site are English and French.

Chenonceau Castle

The castle, restrooms, restaurants, shops, and gardens are wheelchair-accessible.
Leashed dogs are allowed in the gardens, and small dogs should be carried; guided dogs are allowed throughout the estate.

Chambord Castle

There is low connectivity within the castle; download your tickets in advance.
The ground floor is wheelchair-accessible; upper floors have elevators.
Pets are not allowed inside the castle, gardens, and stables; they are in the park, on a leash.
Guide dogs are allowed through the entire estate.
Since this is a historic site, certain rooms are exceptionally closed to visitors.
Autumns and winters are exceptionally cold inside the castle. Plan accordingly.

Royal Blois Castle

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Children under 13 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
No animals are allowed on site except guide dogs.

These tickets are valid until 2 November, 2025.

See 3 iconic castles in one day—save on entry and skip the lines across the Loire.

Everything you get: Enjoy a self-paced tour of a cliffside château with medieval towers and Renaissance flair. Step through historic rooms once tied to Catherine de Medici, then experience bold landscape art at the seasonal Garden Festival (Apr–Nov).
Everything you get at your 2 chosen castles: Pick two to round out your trio- Climb Chambord’s famous double-helix staircase and walk its rooftop terraces. Cross Chenonceau’s river bridge—one of the Loire’s most romantic châteaux. Explore Blois’s mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and royal drama across centuries.
Why choose this: Flexible three-castle ticket lets you dive deeper into the Loire’s royal legacy—no multiple bookings, no ticket counter waits, and up to €20 saved versus booking separately.

Inclusions Chamount-sur-Loire

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the International Garden Festival (seasonal)
Cultural programs and events (subject to availability)

Chenonceau Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Multilingual visitors' brochure (available in 18 languages)

Chambord Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to temporary exhibitions
Multilingual visitor's guide
A 20-minute movie about the castle translated into English, Spanish, German, and Italian

Royal Blois Castle

Skip the ticket line entry (security check is a must)
Access to the royal apartments and the Museum of Fine Arts
Multilingual visitor's guide (available in 14 languages)

Exclusions

Guided tours
- Audio guides
- Transportation

Chaumont-sur-Loire

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Animals are not allowed on site, except for guide dogs.
Languages spoken on-site are English and French.

Chenonceau Castle

The castle, restrooms, restaurants, shops, and gardens are wheelchair-accessible.
Leashed dogs are allowed in the gardens, and small dogs should be carried; guided dogs are allowed throughout the estate.

Chambord Castle

There is low connectivity within the castle; download your tickets in advance.
The ground floor is wheelchair-accessible; upper floors have elevators.
Pets are not allowed inside the castle, gardens, and stables; they are in the park, on a leash.
Guide dogs are allowed through the entire estate.
Since this is a historic site, certain rooms are exceptionally closed to visitors.
Autumns and winters are exceptionally cold inside the castle. Plan accordingly.

Royal Blois Castle

Free admission is available for visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person.
Wheelchair available for loan.
Children under 13 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
No animals are allowed on site except guide dogs.

These tickets are valid until 2 November, 2025.

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Chaumont-sur-Loire Tickets

Top things to do in Loire Valley

Why visit Chaumont-sur-Loire?

International Garden Festival

Castle with a storied past

Centre for arts and nature

Loire views worth lingering over

Summer nights, garden lights

Is Chaumont the right castle for you

Things to know before booking your Chaumont-sur-Loire tickets

Booking guide: Find the right ticket for your Chaumont visit

Entry ticket

Multi-castle ticket

Visual guide to Loire Valley castles

Getting around the Loire Valley

What to see at the castle

Things to do at the castle

International Gaden Festival

Centre for Arts & Nature

The guard room

Catherine de Medici room

Council chamber

Private apartments

The chapel

The stables

Plan your visit

Beyond Chaumont-sur-Loire

Villandry Castle

Ussé Castle

Chenonceau Castle

Frequently asked questions about booking Chaumont-sur-Loire tickets

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