Things To Do
in Blois
Blois sits along the Loire River in the heart of the Loire Valley, where Renaissance chateaux meet a lively riverside town. Its compact center is anchored by the Château de Blois and a medieval old town that rewards wandering. From grand palaces to cobbled lanes, the town blends royal heritage with French provincial charms.
Today Blois is a gateway for Loire Valley explorations, with easy access to castles, gardens, and outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in the historic center of Blois, savoring freshly baked croissants and local coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the cobbled streets lined with Renaissance architecture, stopping to admire the stunning Hôtel de Ville. Don’t forget to visit the Maison de la Magie, dedicated to the famous magician Robert-Houdin, where you can learn about the art of magic and its history.
In the afternoon, head to the magnificent Château de Blois, where you can explore its impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. Enjoy a guided tour to delve into the rich history of the French monarchy that resided here. After your visit, relax in the nearby gardens, soaking in the beautiful views of the Loire River.
As the sun sets, dine at a local bistro featuring traditional French cuisine, enjoying dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Loire River, where the reflections of the city lights dance on the water. End your night by attending a magical performance at the Maison de la Magie, bringing the enchantment of Blois to a close.
Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a short drive to the Château de Chambord, one of the most recognizable châteaux in the Loire Valley. Upon arrival, spend your morning wandering through the expansive grounds and marveling at the stunning architecture designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Be sure to climb to the rooftop terraces for breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch on the château grounds, surrounded by nature and the splendid views. After lunch, take a leisurely bike ride through the nearby forest trails, immersing yourself in the lush greenery and wildlife of the area. Visit the on-site museum to learn more about the history and significance of Chambord.
Return to Blois in the evening and choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, perhaps indulging in a regional dish like coq au vin. After your meal, stroll through the illuminated streets of Blois, appreciating the charming ambiance of the town at night. If available, check out any local events or live music happening around town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥖Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🧀Local cheese or groceries | $4-8 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $80-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architectural splendor around the Loire Valley
- Compact, walkable historic center with easy day trips to châteaux
- Genuine French town atmosphere with markets, cafés, and riverside scenery
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to big cities
- Certain sights and services can be seasonal in hours
- Public transport options may require planning for longer day trips
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais ceci" - I would like this
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Blois
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic Renaissance–medieval blend with ornate staircases and panoramic views of the Loire valley courtyards.
Historic building with charming façades and interesting architectural details, excellent for exterior shots and reflections near the street lamps at dusk.
Historic bridge spanning the Loire, offering classic river and château silhouettes, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Food in Blois
Blois Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Puffy, hollow bread baked outdoors and served with butter, rillettes, or cheese. A regional favorite for a casual snack.
Must-Try!
Slow-cried pork morsels often enjoyed as a rustic accompaniment to bread and cheeses in the Loire Valley.
A caramelized apple tart with a buttery crust, a classic Loire dessert often found in local pastry shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, bakery goods, and ready-to-eat bites during market days.
Street-side vendors offering sweet and savory crepes, perfect for a quick snack while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' when entering shops; say 'S’il vous plaît' and 'Merci' as you interact with locals.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces; queue politely; avoid loud behavior in churches or during temple-like visits.
Smart-casual is typical for nicer restaurants; casual wear is fine for cafés and markets.
Safety
Tipping in Blois
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is included in many tourist restaurants; if not included, a 5-10% tip for good service is customary. Rounding up the bill for cafés is common but not required.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; cash is handy in markets and smaller cafés. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make Blois very walkable; carry a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
Warm days with plenty of daylight; outdoor dining and riverfront activities are popular. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Comfortable cooler days with russet-hued foliage; perfect for long strolls along the river and late-season markets.
Chillier with occasional rain; some outdoor sights have limited hours, but the historic center is cozy with cafés and lit monuments at night.
Blois at Night
Hiking in Blois
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near the Château de Chambord offering shaded paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Flat to moderate hiking along the Loire with views of vineyards, orchards, and riverbanks.
Airports
How to reach Blois by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights; about 100-120 km from Blois; best reached by car or shuttle/rail connections.
Major international hub with frequent rail connections to Blois via Paris; time and connections vary by service.
Large international airport with multiple transport options to Blois by high-speed rail and regional trains; travel time longer but schedules frequent.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong school presence and family-friendly attractions; safe neighborhoods and open spaces appeal to visitors with kids.
Year-round visitors exploring châteaux, markets, and riverfront scenery.
Appealing for a slower pace, cultural activities, and accessible walking paths.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular along the Loire Valley routes and countryside; ideal for day trips and scenic rides.
Local clubs and informal matches are common; watch matches at community grounds or stadiums when available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blois.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy fresh market vegetables, cheese, and egg dishes. Look for veggie galettes, seasonal salads, and cheese plates; ask for butter-based sauces rather than meat stocks to keep meals vegetarian.