Romantic adventure by train to see the châteaux of the Loire valley

Itinerary

  • duration7 days
  • stages7 steps

Couple in the gardens of the Château of Chenonceaux - Loire Valley
© David Taljat / ISTOCK - Couple in the gardens of the Château of Chenonceaux - Loire Valley

Reading time: 0 minPublished on 22 January 2025

This rail adventure is the perfect way to discover the beautiful châteaux scattered along the banks of the river Loire. Prepare for a surprisingly romantic trip through this region oozing with charm. Here’s our turnkey itinerary for a romantic getaway you’ll never forget!

Départ de Paris

Paris Austerlitz gare, Quai d'Austerlitz, Paris, France

Day 1: Paris to Orléans (train time: 1 hr 6 mins)

Orléans, France
Château of Meung-sur-Loire  - Loire Valley
© Pierre Holley - Château of Meung-sur-Loire - Loire Valley

The area around Orléans is full of fairytale castles. In Ferté Saint-Aubin, walk hand-in-hand in the beautiful green gardens spanning 40 hectares. Plunge into history at the Château of Meung-sur-Loire and its ancient jails that still seem haunted by the spirits of Louis XI and Joan of Arc.

 

When evening falls, book a table for two at Le Lift, a gourmet restaurant in Orléans centre. Spend a pleasant, peaceful night in the subdued atmosphere of the Hôtel l’Abeillea cosy little haven. 

Day 2: Orléans to Blois/Chambord (train time: 37 mins)

Blois, France
François I Wing I Royal Château of Blois - Loire Valley
© F. Christophe - François I Wing I Royal Château of Blois - Loire Valley

Head for Blois/Chambord Station, just a 37-minute train ride from Orléans. The favourite residence of 17 kings and queens of France, the  Château of Blois is an architectural gem that has stood up to the test of time. 

 

For an intimate dinner with your loved one, try Les armes du château, to soak up the historical atmosphere and enjoy a stunning view of the Château of Chambord. 

 

Stay overnight at the Hôtel Anne de Bretagne, in Blois town centre. You’ll love the ideal location of this hotel near the château and the town centre, as well as its spacious, well-equipped rooms, the soothing calm and the variety of the full breakfast served every morning.

 

Day 3: Blois/Chambord

Chambord, France
Cycling past the Château of Chambord - Loire Valley
© Leonard de Serres - Cycling past the Château of Chambord - Loire Valley

Stay an extra day to visit the must-see Château of Chambord. Admire its famous double-spiral staircase and the sublime formal gardens. Spread your gingham tablecloth at a spot facing the château to enjoy a gourmet picnic. You can also walk around the Chambord estate, head into the forest and observe the wildlife.

 

Have dinner at the  Médicisto enjoy their foie gras and sweetbread specialities. Then head back to the Hôtel Anne de Bretagne for a second night of great hospitality.

 

Day 4: Blois/Chambord to Amboise (train time: 18 mins)

Amboise, France
Leonardo da Vinci Park, Amboise - Loire Valley
© Eric Sander - Vue sur le Château du Clos Lucé - Leonardo da Vinci Park, Amboise - Loire Valley

Your week travelling between the Loire châteaux now takes you to Amboise. Be at  Chambord as soon as it opens, to admire the amazing architecture of this château straddling the river Cher. 

 

After lunch, visit the Clos-Lucé to learn all about Leonardo da Vinci, who spent the end of his life here. 

 

For dinner, go to the Clos d’Amboise, a 17th-century mansion where you can also spend the night.

 

Day 5: Amboise to Tours (train time: 18 mins)

Tours, France

The history-steeped Château of Tours has crossed the centuries. Nowadays, it opens its doors to visitors (afternoons only) to offer a whole programme of cultural activities. Why not join a workshop together? Choose from painting, photography, pottery or sculpture. 

At the end of the day, go for a walk in the botanical gardens or stroll in the streets of the old part of Tours, before having dinner at L’accalmieStay overnight in the Art Deco atmosphere of the  Grand Hôtel de Tours.

Day 6: Tours to Azay-Le-Rideau (train time: 26 mins)

Azay-le-Rideau, France
The Château of Azay-le-Rideau - Loire Valley
© Léonard de Serres - The Château of Azay-le-Rideau - Loire Valley

In the 19th century, the Château of Azay-le-Rideau, an icon of the Renaissance period, underwent a transformation to become the château we know today. Enjoy a romantic stroll through its corridors and in the gardens, then head for the restaurant L’Orangerie d’Azay for lunch. From there you’ll make the most of the superb view of the château. 

In the evening, the Hôtel de Biencourt and its lovely flower-festooned patio promise a night of sweet dreams. 

 

Day 7: Azay-le-Rideau to Paris (train time: 2 hrs)

Paris, France
Maison Favart swimming pool
© November Studio - Maison Favart swimming pool

This is where you’ll round off your Loire châteaux adventure by rail! Prolong your romantic week with a day and evening in the city of light. Admire the Eiffel Tower, stroll along the Champs-Élysées or relax in the spa at  La Maison Favart. For one last, fabulous meal as romantic as they come, choose one of the restaurants run by Yannick Alléno. The ultimate dining experience! 

Tips and suggestions

It’s very pleasant visiting the châteaux of the Loire Valley by train. But it’s even better by bike! If you have enough time, why not cycle from château to château for an even more eco-friendly getaway. 

By Margot PYCKAERT

Baroudeuse dans l'âme, Margot prend tout autant de plaisir à écrire qu'à voyager.