Getting around by car is by far the most convenient way to discover the Loire Valley. A car allows you freedom to move at your own pace and you won’t need to be depending on train and bus schedules. A car also allows you to travel off the beaten path and to some of the lesser known castles, enjoy the scenic landscape up close, and discover the vineyards. Driving castle to castle is fairly easy to navigate and the roads are well maintained with plenty of signs posted on the way. Parking is free at most all the castle, with the exception of Chambord.

Rental cars can be found in all major cities: Tours, Amboise, Blois, and Orleans. Book your car rental early, especially if you are traveling during high season (June-September).

Public transportation is possible in the Loire Valley, but it does require planning ahead. If you do plan on using public transportation, we recommend staying in Blois, as you will have access to shuttle buses accessing Chambord, Cheverny, and Chaumont, as well as the train where you can visit Chenonceau, and Amboise. Also worth noting, public transportation works for visiting the more popular castles, however it is not recommended if you plan to visit the lesser known castles. For more information on the castle shuttle bus, visit httpss://www.remi-centrevaldeloire.fr/tourisme/navette-chateaux.

Discovering the Loire Valley by bicycle is a fantastic way to explore the region. Cycle along the Loire River on the La Loire a Velor that will take you through villages, vineyards, and forests stopping at one castle to the next. The 560 mile cycle route is well maintained with great signage that connects Nevers to Saint-Brevin-les-Pins in France. For more information visit www.loirebybike.co.uk.

The terrain throughout the Loire Valley is mostly flat, making cycling doable for mostly anyone, regardless of your fitness level. Many of the bike rental companies also offer electric bikes as an option as well. Bike rentals can be located at the railway stations, hotels and dedicated shops. Prices start around 16 euros for a standard bike or around 34 euros for electric bikes per day, less expensive if you rent for consecutive days. Visit www.chateauxavelo.co.uk for more information on routes, itineraries, maps and more on cycling in the Loire Valley.