Top 5 Chateaux in the Loire Valley

Loire Chateau

The Loire Valley has been known for its beautiful chateaux since the 15th century. Kings, queens, and wealthy aristocrats outdid one another over and over again for two centuries, leaving us the legacy of their lavish estates. Today many of the Loire chateaux can be visited, and they are well worth a day trip from Paris to do so. Here are my picks for the top 5 chateaux in the Loire Valley:

1. Villandry
Villandry, a box-like chateau, is better known for its stunning gardens than its interiors. After touring the chateau, don’t miss the potager and the formal French gardens.

2. Amboise
A royal residence of Charles VIII and Francois I, Amboise is a stunning medieval chateau right on the banks of the Loire River.

3. Chambord
The largest and perhaps the most famous chateau in the Loire Valley, Chambord was inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. A tour through the huge castle and a stroll through the hunting grounds are enough to exhaust even the most tireless traveler.

4. Chaumont
Not far from Chambord, the chateau of Chaumont sits high over the river and has lovely views of the valley below.

5. Chenonceau
Situated on the Cher River, this gorgeous castle literally sits on top of the water. When you visit, take a stroll through the rooms, then rent a boat and paddle along the river.