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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Amboise.
Amboise, a picturesque town nestled in the Loire Valley, offers a plethora of activities to satisfy the thirst for adventure and cultural enlightenment.
From wandering the charming cobblestone streets to exploring the rich history and stunning architecture of its châteaux, Amboise is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Amboise:
1. Château Royal d’Amboise
A royal castle located in the Loire Valley of France, which was once the residence of French kings.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the castle to see its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. Visit the chapel of Saint-Hubert, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried.
Enjoy the panoramic views of the Loire Valley from the castle’s terrace.
Don’t miss: The gardens of the Château, where you can stroll around and relax amidst the beautiful landscape.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
Plan your visit during the summer months to catch the dramatic light and sound show that takes place in the castle courtyard.
2. Château Gaillard
A magnificent castle located in the city of Amboise, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s architecture, history, and beautiful gardens. The castle offers stunning views of the Loire Valley and the city of Amboise.
Don’t miss: The castle’s impressive defensive features, such as its double walls and strategic location overlooking the river. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the chamber where King Francis I spent his final days.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the guided tours offered by the castle to gain a deeper understanding of its history and significance.
In the summer months, make sure to visit the castle in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the Loire Valley.
3. Château du Clos Lucé
A historic castle turned museum in Amboise, France, where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last three years of his life.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s chambers and galleries, which have been preserved to look how they did during da Vinci’s time.
The museum is also home to a large collection of models and replicas of da Vinci’s inventions, including some interactive exhibits.
Don’t miss: The gardens surrounding the castle, which have been re-created according to da Vinci’s sketches and are filled with various types of plants that would have been familiar to the artist.
Insider travel tips: Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance. Also, consider visiting during the off-season to avoid crowds.
Finally, don’t forget to try the local wine and cheese while you’re in the area!
4. Pagode de Chanteloup
Pagode de Chanteloup is a unique Chinese pagoda located in Amboise, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda for stunning panoramic views of the Loire Valley. The pagoda itself is an impressive piece of architecture, with intricate carvings and colorful tiles.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll around the surrounding park, which is also home to a breathtaking chateau.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and make the most of the peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, bring comfortable footwear for climbing the stairs to the top of the pagoda.
5. Le Château des Réaux
Le Château des Réaux is a historic castle located in the Loire Valley region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved interiors, including its grand reception rooms, chapel, and traditional French kitchen. The castle is also surrounded by charming gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to Le Château des Réaux is the opportunity to view its extensive art collection, which features works from both well-known and emerging artists.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the castle’s website for special events and exhibitions, as well as guided tours that offer an in-depth look at its history and architecture.
For an even more unique experience, consider staying overnight in one of the castle’s guest rooms, which are decorated with antique furnishings and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
6. Le Château de Montdomaine
Le Château de Montdomaine is a stunning castle located in Amboise, a town in the Loire Valley region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s beautiful grounds, which include a moat and gardens. Inside the castle, there are several rooms to visit, each beautifully decorated with antique furniture, tapestries, and artwork.
Guests can also learn about the history of the castle and the families who lived there.
Don’t miss: Be sure to explore the castle’s magnificent chapel, which is decorated with intricate carvings and stained glass windows. The castle’s gardens are also a must-see, featuring beautiful flowers, fruit trees, and a vegetable garden.
Insider travel tips: – The castle is open for tours from April to October.
7. Mini Châteaux Val de Loire
Miniature park featuring over 40 scaled-down replicas of famous Loire Valley chateaux.
What to see or do: Explore the intricately detailed models of chateaux such as Chambord, Chenonceau, and Azay-le-Rideau. Learn about the history and architecture of each chateau through interactive displays.
Don’t miss: The miniature train ride that takes you on a tour of the park, providing a unique perspective on the chateaux and the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: Purchase tickets online to save time and avoid lines. The park can get crowded during peak season, so plan to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.
Bring sunscreen and a hat as the park is mainly outdoors.
8. Le Château de la Bourdaisière
Le Château de la Bourdaisière is a magnificent French castle situated in the Loire Valley close to the town of Amboise.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s luxurious rooms and admire its stunning architecture and artwork. The castle also features a beautiful garden full of colorful flowers and rare plant species.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the castle is its tomato conservatory, which grows more than 650 different species of tomatoes from around the world.
Visitors can also enjoy a tomato-themed tasting menu at the castle’s restaurant.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check out the castle’s events calendar as it hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including a popular tomato festival.
For a unique experience, consider staying overnight in one of the castle’s beautiful guest rooms or suites.
9. Le Clos d’Amboise
A historic boutique hotel located in the heart of Amboise, France.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll through the beautiful Parc des Mini-Châteaux, just a short walk from the hotel.
Don’t miss: The hotel’s charming French garden, complete with towering trees, lush greenery, and relaxing benches perfect for soaking up the scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Request a room with a view of the castle for an unforgettable experience.
10. Les Caves du Père Auguste
A historic wine cellar located in the heart of Amboise, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the centuries-old cellars and taste a variety of local wines. The cellar also offers guided tours that provide insight into the history of winemaking in the Loire Valley.
Don’t miss: The chance to sample some of the unique and delicious wines produced in the region, including crisp whites and full-bodied reds.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to book a tour in advance to guarantee a spot, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the cellar is dimly lit and there are some uneven surfaces.
Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations – the staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their wines.
11. Le Château de Jallanges
A historic castle located in the town of Amboise, in the Loire Valley region of France.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the castle’s interior to see its ornate furnishings, tapestries, and paintings. Wander the castle grounds to admire the manicured gardens and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: The castle’s impressive collection of antique carriages, which includes a coach used by Napoleon Bonaparte.
Insider travel tips: Check the castle’s website for special events, such as concerts or outdoor theater performances, which are held on the grounds during the summer months.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking on the castle’s uneven terrain, and consider wearing layers as the castle can be cool inside even on warm days.
12. Chapelle Saint Hubert
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: The chapel may be small, but it’s worth taking the time to visit and appreciate its simple beauty.
It’s also conveniently located near other popular attractions in Amboise, so consider combining a visit to the chapel with a trip to the castle or nearby Château de Clos Lucé.
13. Église Saint-Florentin
Église Saint-Florentin is a beautiful church located in the heart of Amboise, a charming town in the Loire Valley.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the architectural splendor of Église Saint-Florentin, which features intricate Gothic details and a stunning stained glass window. The church also houses a number of beautiful religious paintings and sculptures.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the church tower, which offers breathtaking views over the town and the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – The church is located just a short walk away from the Château d’Amboise, so consider visiting both attractions in one day.
14. Chapelle Saint-Joseph
A small chapel located in the town of Amboise in the Loire Valley of France.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the intricate woodcarvings that adorn the interior of the chapel. Take a moment to reflect and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the town below from the chapel’s terrace. It’s the perfect spot for taking photos and soaking up the scenery.
Insider travel tips: Check the opening hours before visiting as they can vary depending on the season. If possible, try to visit during the week to avoid crowds.
The chapel is located on a hill, so be prepared for a short uphill walk.