The Loire Valley in France is often called the “Garden of France,” but it could just as easily be known as the “Valley of Castles.” Stretching along the Loire River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 300 châteaux, each with its own fascinating story. From medieval fortresses to Renaissance masterpieces, these castles reflect centuries of French history, art, and architecture.
For travelers, the Loire Valley is a dream destination. Whether you’re drawn by fairytale-like towers, romantic gardens, or fascinating royal stories, the region has a château for everyone. To help you plan your trip, here are some of the best castles to visit in the Loire Valley.
1. Château de Chambord
No trip to the Loire Valley is complete without seeing Château de Chambord, the largest and most famous castle in the region. Built in the 16th century under King Francis I, Chambord is a Renaissance marvel, blending French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures.
Highlights include:
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The double-helix staircase, believed to be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci.
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More than 400 rooms and 365 fireplaces.
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Expansive grounds perfect for cycling or picnicking.
Chambord feels less like a home and more like a grand showcase of power and artistry — making it a must-see.
2. Château de Chenonceau
Known as the “Ladies’ Castle”, Château de Chenonceau is perhaps the most romantic of all Loire castles. Stretching gracefully across the Cher River, its reflection on the water is breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Its history is tied to influential women such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici, who shaped its design and legacy. Inside, you’ll find lavish tapestries, a grand gallery over the river, and stunning flower arrangements that change weekly.
The gardens here are also a highlight, making Chenonceau one of the most photogenic and memorable stops in the Loire Valley.
3. Château de Villandry
If you love gardens, Château de Villandry is the place to be. While the château itself is beautiful, it’s the world-famous Renaissance gardens that steal the spotlight. Designed in geometric patterns, the gardens include:
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The ornamental garden of love, shaped like hearts.
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A water garden with tranquil pools.
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A vegetable garden that’s as artistic as it is practical.
Villandry is especially popular in spring and summer, when the gardens burst with vibrant colors.
4. Château d’Amboise
Perched high above the Loire River, Château d’Amboise offers stunning views of the valley below. This castle has a strong royal history, serving as the residence of French kings from the 15th to 16th centuries.
One of its most famous connections is with Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years nearby at Clos Lucé, and is buried in the castle’s chapel. Exploring Amboise is like stepping into the crossroads of French and Italian Renaissance culture.
5. Château de Blois
If you’re fascinated by French history, Château de Blois is a must-visit. Once home to seven French kings and ten queens, it’s a castle where political intrigue and drama unfolded.
The architecture is unique, showcasing four different styles: Gothic, Renaissance, Medieval, and Classical. Inside, the grand staircase and the richly decorated royal chambers are highlights. The evening son et lumière (sound and light show) in summer brings its dramatic past to life in a magical way.
6. Château de Azay-le-Rideau
Often described as a “jewel of the Loire,” Azay-le-Rideau is a smaller castle but incredibly charming. Built on an island in the Indre River, its reflection on the water makes it picture-perfect.
It combines French Renaissance elegance with Italian influences, and its intimate scale makes it a joy to explore. It’s the kind of château that feels straight out of a fairytale.
7. Château de Cheverny
For something a little different, head to Château de Cheverny, known for its beautifully preserved interiors and connection to Tintin comics (it inspired Captain Haddock’s Marlinspike Hall).
Cheverny is also famous for its pack of hunting dogs, which visitors can see during feeding times — an unusual but fascinating tradition that sets this castle apart.