Blois

Day Trips

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in the historic center of Blois, savoring freshly baked croissants and local coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the cobbled streets lined with Renaissance architecture, stopping to admire the stunning Hôtel de Ville. Don’t forget to visit the Maison de la Magie, dedicated to the famous magician Robert-Houdin, where you can learn about the art of magic and its history.

In the afternoon, head to the magnificent Château de Blois, where you can explore its impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. Enjoy a guided tour to delve into the rich history of the French monarchy that resided here. After your visit, relax in the nearby gardens, soaking in the beautiful views of the Loire River.

As the sun sets, dine at a local bistro featuring traditional French cuisine, enjoying dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Loire River, where the reflections of the city lights dance on the water. End your night by attending a magical performance at the Maison de la Magie, bringing the enchantment of Blois to a close.

Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a short drive to the Château de Chambord, one of the most recognizable châteaux in the Loire Valley. Upon arrival, spend your morning wandering through the expansive grounds and marveling at the stunning architecture designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Be sure to climb to the rooftop terraces for breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.

In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch on the château grounds, surrounded by nature and the splendid views. After lunch, take a leisurely bike ride through the nearby forest trails, immersing yourself in the lush greenery and wildlife of the area. Visit the on-site museum to learn more about the history and significance of Chambord.

Return to Blois in the evening and choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, perhaps indulging in a regional dish like coq au vin. After your meal, stroll through the illuminated streets of Blois, appreciating the charming ambiance of the town at night. If available, check out any local events or live music happening around town.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then set out for a wine tasting tour in the beautiful vineyards of the Loire Valley. Visit a local winery in the region, where you will have the opportunity to meet the winemakers and learn about the unique terroir. Participate in a guided tour of the vineyard, followed by a tasting of exquisite wines paired with local cheeses.

In the afternoon, continue your wine journey by visiting another vineyard, perhaps one known for its organic practices. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a vineyard restaurant overlooking the vines, savoring seasonal dishes that complement the local wines. Capture picturesque photos of the scenic landscape, making memories of this enchanting experience.

Return to Blois in the late evening and enjoy dinner at a wine bar, where you can taste some of the wines you learned about during the day. Engage with the knowledgeable staff who can recommend food pairings and share insights about the local wine scene. End your night by strolling through the quiet streets of Blois, reflecting on your delightful day of wine exploration.

After breakfast, gather your gear and head to the Loire River for an exciting kayaking adventure. Rent a kayak or join a guided tour that takes you along the river, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the lush banks and châteaux along the way. Paddle gently along the water, keeping an eye out for local wildlife, including swans and herons.

Stop for a leisurely lunch at a riverside café, enjoying fresh, local dishes while watching the boats pass by. Afterward, continue your kayaking journey, exploring hidden coves and tranquil spots along the river. For those seeking a challenge, try some gentle rapids that the Loire has to offer.

Return to Blois in the evening and refresh with a quick shower before heading out for dinner. Choose a restaurant that specializes in local gastronomy, where you can enjoy dishes inspired by the Loire Valley's rich culinary heritage. Wrap up your evening by finding a cozy spot with a view of the river, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Start your day by visiting the vibrant Blois market, held every Wednesday and Saturday morning, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Wander through the stalls, sampling fresh produce, cheeses, and artisan breads, while chatting with friendly vendors. Don't miss the chance to purchase some unique souvenirs or ingredients for a picnic later in the day.

After exploring the market, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café nearby, tasting some of the local specialties you discovered earlier. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby town of Cheverny, famous for its stunning château and picturesque gardens. Take a tour of the Cheverny estate and learn about its history, including the inspiration for Tintin’s Marlinspike Hall.

Return to Blois and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that prides itself on using local market produce. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories about your day. To end the night, enjoy a glass of local wine at a nearby wine bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Begin your morning with breakfast at a local café, then set off to explore the various museums in Blois. Start with the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where you can admire an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance to modern art. Take your time to appreciate the art pieces and learn about their historical contexts.

After your museum visit, have lunch at a nearby bistro, enjoying a selection of regional dishes. Spend the afternoon at the Maison de la Magie, where interactive exhibits bring the history of magic to life. Participate in a magic workshop if available, engaging your creativity and sense of wonder.

For dinner, seek out a restaurant that offers a tasting menu, allowing you to sample a variety of local flavors. After your meal, enjoy a stroll through the historic streets of Blois, admiring the beautifully illuminated château at night. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local pub for a nightcap or a live music performance.

After a hearty breakfast, prepare for a day of hiking in the scenic landscapes of the Loire Valley. Choose a hiking trail that winds through vineyards and picturesque villages, taking in the stunning views along the way. The crisp morning air and the beauty of nature will invigorate your spirit.

Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, enjoying the local specialties you packed earlier. Continue your hike in the afternoon, perhaps exploring the trails that lead to hidden gems like the quaint village of Chaumont-sur-Loire. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking sights and charming landscapes.

After a rewarding day of hiking, return to Blois for dinner, treating yourself to a well-deserved meal at a gourmet restaurant. Share stories of your adventure with fellow diners, and perhaps even make a few new friends along the way. Wind down your evening with a stroll along the Loire River, reflecting on the beauty of the day.

After breakfast, set out to visit the nearby Château d'Amboise, a short drive from Blois, known for its royal history. Explore the magnificent castle and its beautiful gardens, taking in the breathtaking views of the Loire River. Discover the story of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years here, and see his final resting place.

Enjoy lunch in the charming town of Amboise, where you can find a variety of cafés and restaurants. After eating, visit the Clos Lucé, the residence of Leonardo da Vinci, which offers fascinating insights into his life and inventions. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase his genius and creativity.

Return to Blois in the evening and indulge in a dinner featuring regional delicacies at a local restaurant. Consider trying specialties such as rillettes or tarte Tatin, enjoying the flavors of the Loire Valley. Conclude your day with a quiet walk through the illuminated streets of Blois, soaking in the magic of the town.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local bakery, then get ready for a cooking class centered around the delicious cuisine of the Loire Valley. Join a local chef who will guide you through the preparation of traditional French dishes, using fresh ingredients sourced from local markets. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for French culinary arts.

After your cooking class, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delightful lunch, savoring the dishes you prepared. Spend the afternoon visiting some local artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts and gourmet foods to take home. Engage in conversations with the shop owners to learn more about their crafts and the local community.

As evening falls, celebrate your culinary achievements with a dinner at a restaurant that features a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients. Share your cooking experiences with fellow diners, discussing your favorite dishes from the day. End your trip with a final stroll through Blois, cherishing the memories of your culinary adventure.