Things To Do
in Blois
Blois is a picturesque city located in the Loir-et-Cher department of central France. It is best known for its historic architecture, including the impressive ChĂąteau de Blois, a magnificent royal residence that showcases different architectural styles from various time periods. The city offers a charming medieval city center with quaint cobblestone streets and bustling marketplaces.
Blois also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with museums, art galleries, and vibrant festivals throughout the year.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the ChĂąteau de Blois, a stunning royal residence. Take time to admire its rich architecture and the historical significance it carries.
Visit the gardens surrounding the chĂąteau for a tranquil experience. Enjoy a leisurely picnic while soaking in the beautiful scenery.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional French cuisine. Stroll through the quaint streets of Blois as the sun sets.
Begin with a guided walking tour of the historic district of Blois. Discover fascinating stories of the townâs past and its architectural gems.
Lunch at a café, sampling local pastries and cafes. Visit the Fondation du Doute, a unique contemporary art space.
Catch a local performance, such as theater or live music, to immerse yourself in Blois' cultural life. Enjoy a light dinner afterward at a nearby eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with numerous chĂąteaux nearby, including the famous ChĂąteau de Blois.
- Charming, picturesque streets and a vibrant town center.
- Cultural events and festivals that celebrate local traditions.
- Conveniently located in the Loire Valley, making it easy to explore other nearby attractions.
- Mild climate, conducive to outdoor activities.
- Smaller town with fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Tourism can lead to crowded streets during peak seasons.
- Limited nightlife options for younger visitors.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive as in larger urban areas.
- Cost of living may be higher in tourist-heavy areas.
Best Activities in Blois
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic and architectural beauty of this medieval castle with its stunning courtyard and panoramic views of the city.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the picturesque Loire River, taking in the natural beauty of the region's countryside.
Stroll through these beautiful gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat with their colorful flowers, fountains, and charming pathways.
Tours
Uncover the best of Blois with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Blois
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic royal castle with panoramic views of the city and the Loire River
A scenic area with forests and chĂąteaux, offering stunning photography opportunities
A bridge with picturesque views of the Loire River and the city of Blois
A beautiful garden with charming views and perfect for capturing scenic photographs
Food in Blois
Blois Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A succulent chicken dish prepared with a savory sauce, often featuring local mushrooms. Best savored at Le Relais de Chambord, a renowned restaurant near the ChĂąteau de Chambord.
Must-Try!
This classic French upside-down apple tart originated in the Loire Valley. Try a delectable version at PĂątisserie Bigot, a charming bakery dating back to the 19th century.
A luscious spread made from pork or duck, slow-cooked and shredded to perfection. Seek out Le Grand Vatel, a local delicatessen known for its exceptional rillettes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market to sample fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal goods. Don't miss the opportunity to savor delectable street food like crĂȘpes and galettes from the bustling stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Blois, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. In more informal situations, a simple 'hello' or 'bonjour' is appropriate.
When dining in Blois, it is polite to keep your hands on the table, but never your elbows. It's also customary to wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal.
Blois is rich in historical landmarks, and it is important to show respect when visiting these sites. This includes following all posted rules and preserving the integrity of the locations.
Safety
Tipping in Blois
Ensure a smooth experience
In Blois, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Blois, France, electronic payments such as credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Cash is also commonly used, especially for small purchases or in establishments that do not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Blois with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists.
Peak tourist season with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities.
Beautiful fall foliage and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor exploration.
Cool temperatures, festive holiday atmosphere, and fewer crowds, great for exploring indoor attractions.
Blois at Night
Hiking in Blois
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large and famous Loire Valley chĂąteau with extensive gardens and nearby trails that offer beautiful views and hiking opportunities.
A scenic cycling and walking path along the Loire River, providing access to various landscapes and historical sites, perfect for leisurely hikes.
A forested area close to Blois with multiple walking paths and trails ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A regional nature park a bit further from Blois, known for its wetlands, biodiversity, and extensive hiking trails amidst beautiful landscapes.
The park surrounding the ChĂąteau de Blois offers walking paths with stunning views of the chĂąteau and the city, providing a quick and enjoyable hike.
Aiports
How to reach Blois by plane.
An international airport located approximately 64 kilometers from Blois, offering domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 70 kilometers from Blois, this airport serves general aviation and charter flights.
Approximately 110 kilometers from Blois, Angers Loire Airport offers regional flights and a limited number of international options.
The largest airport near Blois, located about 190 kilometers away, with a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Situated around 200 kilometers from Blois, this is one of the busiest international airports in the world, providing extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This demographic group represents a significant portion of the population in Blois, known for their presence in the workforce and family formation.
This group includes middle-aged individuals who often have established careers and families.
Young adults and teenagers make up this demographic, including students and young professionals.
This aging population represents the senior community, often retired individuals.
This group encompasses minors and is important for future demographic shifts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Blois, with several local clubs and a strong community following.
An increasingly popular sport in Blois, with various teams and youth programs being developed.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Blois, with local clubs competing at different levels.
Handball is popular in Blois, featuring teams that participate in regional competitions.
With its scenic routes and cycling clubs, cycling is a favored recreational activity in and around Blois.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Blois, with several courts and clubs available for both amateurs and professionals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blois.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including La Pierre Ă Four and Le MĂ©dicis, both renowned for their plant-based selections.
For delicious gluten-free options, head to La Vieille Ville, a charming restaurant offering a variety of gluten-free dishes without compromising on taste.