Embark on a Loire Valley Self-Drive Tour Full of Castles, Wine, and Culture.
Set out on an unforgettable self-drive tour, where you’ll explore majestic castles, charming towns, and scenic vineyards at your own pace. This 6-day, 5-night itinerary leads you through the heart of the Loire Valley, with memorable stops in Tours and Saumur, two iconic destinations of the region.
From medieval towns to wine tastings in troglodyte cellars, this self-drive adventure in the Loire Valley blends history, culture, and gastronomy—ideal for travelers seeking authentic French charm.
Highlights of Your Loire Valley Self-Drive Tour
- Discover Tours and its medieval heritage
- Explore Tours by bike with a local guide
- Visit iconic Loire castles like Chambord and Chenonceau
- Stroll through the remarkable Gardens of Villandry
- Taste wines in Saumur’s unique troglodyte cellars
- Enjoy a semi-gastronomic lunch paired with local vintages
Arrival in Tours – Explore the Historic Heart of the Loire Valley
Welcome to Tours, the starting point of your Loire Valley self-drive tour! After checking in, take time to explore the historic heart of the city.
Wander the cobbled Rue Colbert, admire the half-timbered houses of the Plumereau district, and visit the impressive Saint-Martin Basilica. A sunset stroll along the Loire River offers a perfect introduction to the region.
Don’t forget to taste local specialties like rillettes and nougat, paired with a crisp Loire white.
Bike Tour of Tours – Discover the City from a New Angle
Begin your day with breakfast, then set off on a guided 1.5-hour bike tour of Tours. Pedal through medieval streets, leafy gardens, and charming bridges as your guide shares local legends and history. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Fine Arts to admire works by Monet, Rodin, and more—an enriching cultural stop on your Loire Valley road trip.
Castles of the Loire – Chambord & Chenonceau
Today, your self-drive tour takes you to two of the region’s most iconic castles:
Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.
Join a small group tour by minibus, or use your castles pass to visit independently. These stunning Renaissance masterpieces offer rich history, grand architecture, and unforgettable photo moments.
Villandry Gardens and Scenic Drive to Saumur
Continue your self-drive itinerary through the Loire Valley with a stop at the Gardens of Villandry, famous for their elaborate floral and geometric layouts. Then, head to Saumur, a charming riverside town. Explore the Château de Saumur, admire its medieval streets, and enjoy the relaxed local ambiance.
Saumur's Heritage – Troglodyte Cellars & Wine Tasting
Start the day with a visit to Saumur’s troglodyte wine cellars and local museums. Discover regional craftsmanship at the Martin de Candre soap factory or the Combier distillery. Enjoy a semi-gastronomic lunch in a troglodyte cellar, perfectly paired with local wines. Then, explore the estate’s vineyards and indulge in a tasting that reflects the essence of your Loire Valley self-drive tour.
Saumur – Departure or Extended Stay in the Loire Valley
Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Saumur before concluding your tour. Want to extend your journey? We’re happy to tailor extra days so you can continue exploring castles, gardens, or charming villages at your own pace.
Ready to explore France your way?
Book your Loire Valley self-drive tour today and experience the perfect mix of history, nature, and gastronomy in one of France’s most enchanting regions.
- 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Tours, including breakfast
- 2-hour guided bike tour of Tours
- Minibus tour of the Loire castles, with entrance tickets to Chambord and Chenonceau
- 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Saumur, including breakfast
- Semi-gastronomic lunch and wine tasting in troglodyte cellars
- Wine estate tour and wine tastings
- Hotel: Château Belmont, The Crest Collection (or similar)
- Hotel: Hôtel Anne d’Anjou, The Originals Collection (or similar)
