France

Amboise is a nice place to base.

So is Chinon!

And as well Blois!

And my favorite, Chenonceaux !

We really liked Amboise too.

Another vote for Chenonceaux ! The Auberge du bon Laboureur is an excellent hotel if within your budget (price varies wildly according to season).

Only have been there once, had a car, based in Amboise, enjoyed it!

Amboise and order the French onion soup at the Restaurant Anne de Bretagne.

Another vote for Amboise. Charming town on the Loire River with a chateau, Leonardo da Vinci’s house, very walkable, many restaurant choices, laundromat, shops. Very easy to drive in and out and very convenient for visiting other towns and chateaux.
Love the very small town of Chenonceaux (and the Chateau de Chenonceau is my favorite), for a quaint village experience it’s perfect.

I stayed in Blois there is castle there less tourists than Amboise still easy to get around

Blois is a city, if that’s what you’re looking for. A very nice city. Charming towns or villages are my preference in the Loire Valley.

Amboise is a good "central" location to the chateaux. Consider Le Clos d'Amboise for hotel. They have their own parking lot.

Thank you for all the great comments about the Moore valley. We are going to base in amboise and visit 4 chateaus. The input from the forum was very helpful.