We are based in Amboise the last two weeks in April, 2026, and plan to visit many towns and castles. Any really good 'don't miss' spots recommended?
We will take the train back to GDG Airport, after Alamo car drop-off at Tours-St. Pierre.
Posted by
304 posts
Chenenceau castle. Do not miss it.
Posted by
Seattle
396 posts
Clos Luce, Leonardo's chateau in Amboise.
Chateau Gaillard in Amboise.
Chateau d'Amboise.
Posted by
Pacific Northwest, Washington State
16 posts
My wife and I spent this past October all over France and Fontevraud is one of those places that lingers long after you leave. I still find myself visiting it in dreams—and I would return in a heartbeat the next time we’re in France. It quickly became one of my favorite experiences in France. With a rental car, it is a perfectly easy drive.
Founded in 1101, the Abbaye de Fontevraud grew into the largest surviving monastic complex from the Middle Ages and later became the burial place of the Plantagenet dynasty—Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II, and Richard the Lionheart among them. Centuries later, Napoleon converted it into a prison, a role it served until 1963. Today the restoration reveals these layers of history beautifully.
Descending into the crypt and seeing the original stones of the abbey’s foundation was awe-striking. The space felt deeply reverent. With perfect October weather and very few other visitors, we wandered the grounds for more than three hours, often feeling less like tourists and more like quiet witnesses to history.
Posted by
Canada
57 posts
Check out Loches. Lovely town to spend the day in!
Posted by
PA, USA
107 posts
I second Loches, especially on a market day. Nearby Chedigny is just about our favorite village in France, tiny but packed with roses, wisterias, and lots of perennials along its few streets. They have a rose festival at the end of May but I think there'd be something to see in April.
Posted by
60 posts
I would second Chenoceau. It is lovely - especially in April when it is decorated for the Easter holiday. It's our favorite castle in the area. Chateau d'Amboise is also interesting and an easy walk through... Sip coffee and eat something delightful at Bigot after. If you are there on a Sunday, Amboise has an amazing farmers market. Great pick up for a picnic lunch -the roast chicken and potatoes are wonderful.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
7155 posts
If you have 2 weeks, then you will have ample time to explore all the usual suspects in the Loire. But in late April I would expect the gardens of Villandry to be outstanding. Also the gardens at Chenenceau (but it might still be a bit early for the roses).
Posted by
Upstate NY
13 posts
My wife and I enjoyed Chenonceau, but loved Chambord. Highly recommend Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise.
Posted by
916 posts
Montresor.
I am done. the quiet place