Loire Valley Castles Private Day Trip from Paris

France's Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its dozens of castles, or 'châteaux,' where French kings and nobility lived during the 15th and 16th centuries. Discover the extravagance and design styles of a few of the most famous castles on this day trip from Paris with private transportation. Learn about figures like Leonardo da Vinci who contributed to the region's artistic landscape, and see beautiful gardens, as well.

Your driver picks you up at your hotel in Paris in the morning for the drive to the Loire Valley, where you'll visit three castles—Château de Chenonceau, Château de Chambord, and Château de Cheverny—which are emblematic of Renaissance architecture and each have their own styles, history, and garden designs. Each castle visit takes about one hour with your guide, who tells you about the history of the estates and shows you their gardens. You can decide with your guide which castle you might spend longer at, if you wish, or you can choose to visit only two castles to explore at a slower pace. It's up to you. If you wish, you also have the opportunity to dine at a local restaurant (own expense); your guide can suggest a menu that provides a French art de vivre (art of life) experience. Upon demand, wine tasting of Loire wines is also available (own expense). You can choose this instead of visiting the third castle. When booking, please specify if you'd like this option. A third possibility is an interior visit of Château de Chambord, which is by reservation only, so please specify when booking if you prefer this option. Your day trip ends with return to Paris for drop-off.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.