Things To Do
in Blois

Blois, France, is a charming town located in the Loire Valley, known for its rich history and stunning Renaissance architecture. The town features the magnificent Château de Blois, which showcases a blend of Gothic and classical styles. Blois is also a gateway to the Loire Valley's famous châteaux, making it a popular destination for tourists exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.

With its picturesque streets, vibrant culture, and beautiful gardens, Blois offers a delightful experience for visitors of all interests.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Blois
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Château de Blois, where you can explore its stunning architecture and learn about its history. Enjoy breakfast at a local café nearby, sampling freshly baked pastries.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic old town, visiting the Maison de la Magie, dedicated to the art of magic, and enjoy lunch at a local bistro serving regional cuisine.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Loire River, followed by dinner at a restaurant with a view of the château, enjoying local wines.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Parc de la Préfecture for a morning walk among the gardens, then grab a coffee and a croissant from a local bakery.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Blois, showcasing a range of artwork from the Renaissance to modern times. Have lunch at a nearby food market.

evening
:

Experience Blois' nightlife by catching a performance at the local theater or enjoying live music in a cozy bar, followed by dinner at a trendy eatery.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$3
🥐Croissant$1.50
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful landscapes along the Loire River.
  • Vibrant local cuisine and wine.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may have entrance fees.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est…?" - Where is…?

Places to Visit in Blois

Visit one of these nice places.

Château de Blois

Capture the stunning architecture and gardens of this historic château, especially during sunset.

Loire River Banks

The scenic riverside offers beautiful views of the châteaux and natural landscapes, perfect for sunset photography.

Place Louis XII

This vibrant square features charming cafes and shops, ideal for capturing the essence of Blois.

Culinary Guide

Food in Blois

Blois offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich gastronomic heritage and local specialties. Be sure to indulge in the flavors of the Loire Valley while exploring the town's vibrant food scene.

Blois Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tarte Tatin

A caramelized upside-down apple tart, a classic French dessert originating from the region.

Must-Try!

Rillons

Pork belly cooked in its fat, seasoned and served as a savory treat.

Sancerre

A renowned white wine from the Loire Valley, perfect for pairing with local dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Blois Market

Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, this bustling market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Street Crepes

Delicious crêpes served from street vendors, a must-try for a quick snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Blois experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 25°C (77°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in spring and autumn. The weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to dress in layers and carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants. A friendly demeanor is appreciated.

Dining Manners

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs, especially during cultural events and religious ceremonies.

Safety Guide

Safety

Blois is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any incidents.

Tipping in Blois

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in France, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common, but having some cash is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists, ideal for outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, perfect for photography and wine tasting.

Winter

Cold weather and occasional snow create a cozy atmosphere; check out holiday markets and local events.

Nightlife Guide

Blois at Night

Blois offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of bars and cafés. The town has a few pubs and wine bars where you can enjoy live music and local wines. The atmosphere is friendly, with many locals and tourists mingling after dark. For those looking for entertainment, theaters host performances throughout the year, and seasonal events often feature outdoor concerts.

Hiking in Blois

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chemin de la Loire

A scenic trail running along the Loire River, perfect for leisurely hikes with beautiful views.

Forêt de Blois

A forested area offering various hiking paths through nature, ideal for those looking to escape into the woods.

Airports

How to reach Blois by plane.

Tours Val de Loire Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Blois, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections. It is the nearest airport, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Blois is a highly walkable town, with many attractions situated within a short distance from each other. The medieval streets are charming and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches and cafés where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town has a mix of long-term residents and families who contribute to the community's vibrant culture.

Tourists

Blois attracts a diverse group of tourists, including history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and families exploring the Loire Valley.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is popular in the Loire Valley, with numerous trails and routes available for both casual and competitive cyclists.

Football

Football is a favorite pastime in the region, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Blois is generally manageable, with narrow streets in the old town requiring cautious driving. Public transportation is available through buses that connect various parts of the town and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular option, with designated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Blois.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu or ask staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available, particularly in bakeries and restaurants that cater to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Blois is accessible and of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. The main hospital is Centre Hospitalier de Blois, offering a range of services. Pharmacies are common and often provide over-the-counter medications and advice.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide