Lisa in Loire Valley

We've been to Amboise twice and we didn't find it any more touristy than any other place. We may have been there slightly off season (mid September-mid October or so) Without a car, though, it seems like you'd be best off in Tours where tours originate. You might grab a train map and see where the train can take you. I do recall that there is a train station in Amboise, but the day we were leaving, there wasn't train service. It might have been a Sunday?? Also, there is a high speed train from Paris to Tours. We did some fun wine tasting in Chinon, Saumor, Vouvray and a few other places, but we had a car.

Amboise would be a good base, but without a car you'll have to either depend on buses or take guided tours like these. I found this company by googling "loire chateau tours," there are others as well. These go from Amboise and from Tours, which might be a better base if you want to see the eastern and western parts of the valley. Tours is a bigger city with more lodging and dining options. Its downside for drivers is having to get in an out of it as you explore, but without a car you may not care as much about that. Tours is an easy train trip from Paris, and I believe there's TGV service from nearby St-Pierre-des-Corps direct to CDG airport if that simplifies your departure from France.

If you have just a week "to explore France, by train," you haven't nearly enough time. I'd suggest sticking to the Loire. Maybe a visit to Chartres on the way.

Thank you both so much! Great tip on the direct CDG train, too!

hmmm now I think I might have to rent a car...

There is both a Sixt and Eurocar rental counter at the St.-Pierre-des-Corps station.

Driving in france is easy and gives you so much more flexibility. I will be in Amboise in the middle of june - with my car! enjoy. sue