Blois Itinerary 7 Days: A Royal Retreat in the Loire Valley (2026)

Welcome to Blois! Upon your arrival, settle into your accommodation and get ready to explore this enchanting city. Your first stop is the magnificent Château Royal de Blois, a true masterpiece of French architecture. As you wander through its halls, you'll be transported through time, with each wing representing a different architectural style: Gothic, Flamboyant Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical. Don't miss the stunning spiral staircase in the François I wing, a true marvel of Renaissance design. The château also houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where you can admire a collection of paintings and sculptures from the 16th to the 19th centuries. After immersing yourself in royal history, take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town of Blois. The cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and hidden courtyards create a magical atmosphere. As evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant in the old town to enjoy your first taste of Loire Valley cuisine. Indulge in local specialties like 'tarte Tatin' or 'rillons', paired with a glass of regional wine. This first day sets the stage for a week of discovery and delight in the heart of the Loire Valley.

Today is a day of magic and mystery! Start your morning with a visit to the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, a museum dedicated to the art of illusion. Located opposite the Château Royal, this unique museum is a tribute to the famous 19th-century magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, who was born in Blois. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of magic, with interactive exhibits, optical illusions, and a live magic show that will delight visitors of all ages. Be sure to watch the six-headed dragon that emerges from the windows of the museum every half hour! In the afternoon, continue your exploration of the old town. Follow the porcupine trail, a marked route that will guide you through the most picturesque streets and squares. Discover hidden gems like the Hôtel de Ville, the Saint-Louis Cathedral, and the Denis Papin staircase, which offers a panoramic view of the city. As you wander, you'll find plenty of charming shops, art galleries, and cafes to explore. For dinner, try a traditional 'crêperie' for a delicious and authentic French meal. This day is a perfect blend of entertainment, history, and local culture.

Today, you'll venture out of Blois to visit one of the most iconic châteaux in the world: the Château de Chambord. Just a short drive from Blois, Chambord is a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture, with its distinctive skyline of towers, turrets, and chimneys. Commissioned by King François I, the château is a symbol of royal power and artistic ambition. Spend the day exploring its vast halls, including the famous double helix staircase, which is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. Climb to the rooftop terrace for a breathtaking view of the surrounding forest and the intricate details of the château's architecture. The estate of Chambord is as impressive as the château itself. The vast forest, which is the largest enclosed park in Europe, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including red deer and wild boar. You can explore the grounds on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. There are also several restaurants and cafes on the estate where you can enjoy lunch. A visit to Chambord is a truly unforgettable experience, a journey into the heart of the French Renaissance. Return to Blois in the evening, filled with memories of this architectural marvel.

Today's destination is the elegant Château de Cheverny, a privately owned and beautifully preserved estate. Unlike many of the other châteaux in the Loire Valley, Cheverny has been in the same family for over six centuries, and its interiors are remarkably well-preserved. As you wander through the rooms, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, with original furniture, tapestries, and works of art. The château is also famous for being the inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in the Tintin comics. Fans of the adventurous reporter will love the permanent exhibition dedicated to Tintin, which brings the world of the comics to life. After exploring the château, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. The estate includes a formal French garden, a romantic English-style park, and a kitchen garden. You can also take a boat trip on the canal or visit the kennels, where you can see the château's pack of over 100 hunting hounds. Cheverny offers a unique and charming experience, a glimpse into the aristocratic life of the Loire Valley. In the afternoon, you can visit a nearby winery for a tasting of the local Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny wines. Return to Blois in the evening for a relaxing dinner.

After several days of château-hopping, today is a day to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Loire River. Start your morning with a leisurely walk or bike ride along the banks of the river. The 'Loire à Vélo' is a well-maintained cycle path that follows the river, offering stunning views of the landscape. You can rent bikes in Blois and explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace. Alternatively, you can take a traditional boat trip on the Loire, a relaxing way to see the city and its surroundings from a different perspective. In the afternoon, it's time to indulge in the flavors of the Loire Valley. The region is famous for its wines, and there are many wineries near Blois that offer tastings and tours. Visit a local 'cave' to sample the crisp Sauvignon Blancs of Touraine or the fruity Cabernet Francs of Chinon. You can also visit a local market to discover the fresh produce of the region, including goat cheese, asparagus, and strawberries. For dinner, treat yourself to a gourmet meal at one of Blois's many excellent restaurants, where you can savor the creative cuisine of the Loire Valley.

Today, you'll visit the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire, a unique estate that combines a historic château with a contemporary art center and an international garden festival. The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, perched on a cliff overlooking the river, has a rich history, having been owned by Catherine de' Medici and Diane de Poitiers. Explore the château's beautifully furnished rooms and enjoy the stunning views of the Loire Valley. The highlight of a visit to Chaumont-sur-Loire is the International Garden Festival, which takes place every year from April to October. The festival features a series of temporary gardens created by landscape artists from around the world, each with a unique theme and design. It's a feast for the senses, a celebration of creativity and nature. The estate also has a permanent collection of contemporary art, with installations by renowned artists scattered throughout the park. Chaumont-sur-Loire offers a perfect blend of history, art, and nature, a truly inspiring experience. Return to Blois in the evening for your last dinner in the Loire Valley.

On your final day in Blois, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local 'boulangerie', savoring a fresh croissant and a 'café au lait'. Depending on your flight or train schedule, you may have some time for some last-minute souvenir shopping. The streets of the old town are filled with charming shops where you can find local crafts, regional specialties, and unique gifts to take home. You can also take one last stroll along the banks of the Loire, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the river. As you bid farewell to Blois, you'll take with you memories of magnificent châteaux, enchanting gardens, and the warm hospitality of the Loire Valley. This 7-day journey has been a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this remarkable region. We hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore more of France and to return to the Loire Valley for another adventure. Bon voyage!