The 5 Greatest Castles in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is home to more than 300 castles! Some are grand, some are elegant, some are photogenic, but a few stand out above the rest for their architecture, their setting, or the stories they hold.

The most popular castles in the Loire Valley are clustered in the central region, around Tours, Amboise, and Blois. This area is easy to explore by car. These castles are close enough to combine in one trip without long drives.

Highlights include Chambord with its vast scale and rooftop terraces, Chenonceau stretching elegantly across the Cher River, Blois showcasing four architectural styles in one complex, and Chaumont with its clifftop views and garden festival.

Here are 5 great ones worth going out of your way for.

1. Château de Chambord

Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture with its dramatic silhouette and sprawling grounds. Its double-helix staircase, thought to be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, is an engineering marvel where two people can ascend without crossing paths. The castle’s façade is adorned with hundreds of chimneys, turrets, and towers, which gives it an almost fairy-tale appearance.

Set within Europe’s largest enclosed forest park, Chambord is a symbol of royal ambition and artistic innovation. Its sheer size and design make it unlike any other in the Loire Valley.

2. Château de Chenonceau

Château de Chenonceau stands out for its striking gallery that stretches over the River Cher, unlike any other castle in France. This elegant château has a history deeply intertwined with powerful women, including Diane de Poitiers, who added the iconic bridge, and Catherine de’ Medici, who transformed it into a lavish royal residence.

The interior reflects their influence, with rich tapestries, elaborate fireplaces, and personal touches that reflect the rivalries and triumphs of its time. It’s a highlight of the Loire Valley due to its riverfront location and lush formal gardens.

3. Château d’Amboise

Perched high above the Loire River, Château d’Amboise offers breathtaking views and an amazing royal history. Once home to French kings, it was a hub of political and cultural influence in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its Gothic and Renaissance elements reflect the evolving styles of the era.

Château d’Amboise is also the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, whose tomb lies in the castle’s chapel. Visitors are also drawn to the stunning terraced gardens and panoramic views over the river.

4. Château de Villandry

Château de Villandry is best known for its beautiful gardens, some of the most famous in France. These gardens are arranged in perfect shapes and patterns, with sections for flowers, vegetables, and water features. The designs change with the seasons, so there’s always something new to see.

Built in the 16th century, the Château was the last of the major Renaissance castles constructed in the Loire Valley. The interiors show a blend of French elegance and Spanish influence, with beautiful wooden ceilings and tapestries.

5. Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire

This Château sits high above the Loire River with fantastic views of the landscape. Built in the 10th century and later transformed into a luxurious residence, it’s a mix of medieval strength and Renaissance elegance. It was once owned by Catherine de’ Medici, who hosted grand parties – Nostradamus was among the guests.

The château features unique stables considered among the most modern of their time. Today, it hosts the International Garden Festival (Festival International des Jardins), an annual event that showcases creative and innovative garden designs from around the world.

Visiting tips

It’s easiest to base yourself in either Tours or Amboise, as both are well-connected and central to most of the châteaux on the list. To visit all five châteaux efficiently, you’ll need a car as public transport won’t cut it for this kind of itinerary.

For Chambord and Chenonceau especially, booking tickets online in advance will save you time and hassle.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Even the smaller castles often have long walkways or gardens that take a while to explore.