Welcome to Blois, a historic city nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, where every corner reveals a piece of France’s rich heritage. From magnificent châteaux to charming townhouses, Blois is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Join us as we uncover the 15 best things to do in this enchanting city.
1. Château de Blois
- Step back in time at the Château de Blois, a stunning masterpiece that embodies the opulence of the French court during the Renaissance.
- Marvel at the majestic spiral staircase in the Aile François I and immerse yourself in the intrigue and history that surrounds this iconic palace.
2. Fondation du Doute
- Explore the world of Fluxus at the Fondation du Doute, a museum dedicated to the radical art movement of the 60s and 70s.
- Dive into the avant-garde works of artists like Yoko Ono and John Cage, and discover how art pushes the boundaries of creativity.
3. Maison de la Magie
- Unlock the secrets of magic at the Maison de la Magie, a museum and performance venue dedicated to the art of illusion.
- Witness live magic shows and explore the world of renowned conjurer Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, whose influence extends to modern-day magicians like Harry Houdini.
4. Château de Chambord
- Venture beyond Blois to the magnificent Château de Chambord, the largest and most impressive château in the Loire Valley.
- Admire the grandeur of this 16th-century palace, marvel at the iconic double helix staircase attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, and explore Louis XIV’s royal apartments.
5. Les Jardins de l’Ancien Évêché
- Escape to the Les Jardins de l’Ancien Évêché, a serene oasis in the heart of Blois that offers a sensory journey through its terraced gardens.
- Wander through the roseraie and Le Jardin des Sens, where horticultural wonders await, tantalizing your senses with vibrant colors and scents.
6. Escalier Denis Papin
- Climb the Escalier Denis Papin, a unique staircase that offers a historical glimpse into Blois’ past.
- Discover the intricate architecture of this stairway, adorned with floral accents, and enjoy panoramic views of Pont Jacques Gabriel and the Loire River.
7. Place Louis XII
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place Louis XII, especially on Saturdays when the square transforms into a bustling market.
- Indulge in farm-fresh produce, local delicacies, and captivating sights like the Fountain of Charles XII, a stunning monument from the 16th century.
8. Tour Beauvoir
- Uncover the history of Tour Beauvoir, a medieval tower that has stood the test of time since the 1100s.
- Explore the remnants of a fortress and a former prison, and learn about the tower’s role in Blois’ defensive ramparts.
9. Rue du Puits-Châtel
- Wander through the Rue du Puits-Châtel, a picturesque street lined with elegant stone houses that showcase the architectural splendor of old Blois.
- Discover hidden courtyards and renaissance elements like arches, towers, and galleries that add a touch of grandeur to this charming alleyway.
10. Hôtels Particuliers
- Delve into the world of Hôtels Particuliers, stately townhouses that once housed nobility seeking proximity to the royal court in Blois.
- Admire the architectural marvels like Hôtel de Villebresme and Hôtel Alluye, each boasting unique features that reflect the opulence of their era.
11. Château de Chaumont
- Venture to the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire and explore the enchanting world of Château de Chaumont, a fairy-tale castle with a rich history.
- Wander through the castle’s grounds and admire the international garden festival, where landscape artists showcase their creative talents.
12. Château de Cheverny
- Experience the baroque beauty of Château de Cheverny, a unique château renowned for its lavish interior decor and rich history.
- Discover tapestries, paintings, and ornate furnishings that make Cheverny a standout among the Loire Valley’s châteaux.
13. Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre
- Embark on a journey to Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, a lesser-known gem that exudes charm and elegance.
- Explore the fortress-turned-château and admire the masterful craftsmanship of its medieval architecture.
14. Loire River Trips
- Cruise along the Loire River on a traditional toue cabanée and immerse yourself in the river life of centuries past.
- Experience the beauty of the Loire Valley from a different perspective, surrounded by nature and history on these picturesque river trips.
15. Chateaux à Vélo
- Pedal through the Sologne countryside on a cycling adventure with Chateaux à Vélo, exploring the region’s iconic châteaux at your own pace.
- Enjoy well-maintained cycle trails, scenic landscapes, and the freedom to roam through orchards, vineyards, and forests with ease.
In Conclusion
From grand châteaux to charming gardens, Blois offers a treasure trove of experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, this charming city has something for everyone. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and embark on a journey through Blois’ rich heritage and picturesque landscapes. Bon voyage!
Remember, Blois is waiting to be explored, and each discovery promises to be more enchanting than the last. So why wait? Start planning your adventure today and immerse yourself in the wonders of this captivating city in the Loire Valley.