The Perfect Weekend in the Loire Valley by Train: Castles, Vineyards and River Views

Chateau de Chenonceau

The Loire Valley is one of France’s most beautiful regions, known for its fairytale châteaux, riverside towns and peaceful countryside. Thanks to fast rail links from Paris, it’s easy to explore without a car. Tours makes the ideal base for a weekend, offering quick train access to some of the region’s most famous castles, vineyards and landscapes.

This guide covers what to see, how to get around, where to eat and stay, what Loire Valley dishes actually are, and how to enjoy a relaxed 48 hours in France’s historic “Garden of Kings”.

Why Go?

The Loire Valley is perfect for travellers who love history, wine, quiet landscapes and charming old towns. Its castles range from grand royal palaces to intimate manor houses, and the region’s villages and vineyards are a joy to explore. With excellent train connections and compact towns, it’s a wonderfully easy and scenic weekend escape from Paris.

A Bit of History

For centuries, the Loire Valley was the chosen home of French kings and nobles. From the late Middle Ages to the Renaissance, royalty built palaces along the river, turning the region into a cultural and architectural showcase. Writers, artists and thinkers were inspired here too — from Leonardo da Vinci in Amboise to Jeanne d’Arc in Orléans. Today, the region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its historic river landscapes and châteaux.

What to Expect

Expect peaceful rivers, rolling vineyards, elegant towns and some of the most famous castles in Europe. Tours is the natural rail hub, with great food markets, a lively medieval quarter and quick TER links to Amboise, Blois, Chenonceau and Chinon. The pace is relaxed, distances are short and the scenery is beautiful year-round.

Five Things to See and Do

Château de Chenonceau: A romantic castle spanning the River Cher. Known as the “Ladies’ Château” for its influential female patrons.

Château d’Amboise: A royal residence offering panoramic river views and historic links to Leonardo da Vinci.

Château de Blois: An impressive mix of medieval, Renaissance and classical architecture, all in one grand complex.

Chinon: A wine town with a hilltop fortress, medieval streets and easy access to vineyards and tastings.

Tours Old Town: Half-timbered houses, narrow lanes, lively cafés and the atmospheric Place Plumereau.

Food Culture

The Loire Valley’s food culture is shaped by its rivers, forests and farmland. Expect freshwater fish, goat cheeses, orchard fruits, wild mushrooms and poultry dishes. The region is especially known for its crisp white wines, sparkling wines and light reds such as Chinon. Meals here lean toward fresh, seasonal produce and are often enjoyed with excellent local wine.

Loire Valley Food Explained

Rillettes de Tours: Slow-cooked shredded pork spread, traditionally served with crusty bread.

Tarte Tatin: A caramelised upside-down apple tart, originally from the region.

Sainte-Maure de Touraine: A soft goat cheese rolled in ash with a gentle, creamy flavour.

Sandre: Pike-perch caught in the Loire River, often served with beurre blanc.

Fouées: Small baked breads served warm with rillettes or goat cheese.

Vouvray Wines: Fresh, aromatic whites (still or sparkling) made from Chenin Blanc.

Where to Eat

La Deuvalière (Tours): A charming restaurant serving refined local dishes in a cosy setting.

Le Petit Patrimoine (Tours): A friendly, relaxed spot with regional specialities and great value.

L’Epicerie (Tours): A popular café offering simple, comforting tartines and light meals in the old town.

Le Shaker (Amboise): A cocktail and wine bar by the river, perfect for a drink after touring Amboise.

Where to Stay

Hotel L’Univers (Tours): A central, comfortable hotel with classic rooms and easy access to the station.

Hotel du Manoir (Tours): A charming small hotel near the cathedral, ideal for exploring on foot.

Château de Perreux (near Amboise): A boutique château hotel for travellers wanting a special stay in the countryside.

Oceania L’Univers Tours: A reliable, elegant option close to transport and restaurants.

Off the Beaten Track

Loches: A medieval hilltop town with an impressive fortress and peaceful old streets.

Candes-Saint-Martin: A riverside village where the Loire and Vienne meet, known for its calm beauty.

Villandry Gardens: Formal Renaissance gardens famous for their patterns, colours and symmetry.

How to Get There by Train

• From Paris to Tours: Direct TGV from Paris Montparnasse in about 1 hour 10 minutes.

• Tours to Amboise: Around 20 minutes by TER.

• Tours to Blois: About 40 minutes by TER.

• Tours to Chenonceaux: Around 25 minutes by TER to the small station right by the château.

• Tours to Chinon: About 1 hour by TER.

Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 : Take a morning TGV to Tours. Explore the old town and cathedral. Afternoon trip to Amboise for the château and river views. Dinner back in Tours.

Day 2 : Visit Château de Chenonceau in the morning. Afternoon in Blois or Chinon for wine tasting. Return to Tours for a relaxed evening before your train back to Paris.

Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.