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At the Château d'Amboise, visitors can explore the grand Renaissance architecture, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, and visit the royal apartments. Highlights include the chapel where Leonardo da Vinci is buried, and the tower offering panoramic views of the Loire River. A boat ride along the river also provides a unique perspective of the castle.
The Château d'Amboise, located in Amboise, France, is a castle that combines medieval Gothic and Renaissance styles. It was where King Francis I of France grew up and is also the burial place of the renowned genius Leonardo da Vinci, whose tomb still stands in the castle's chapel. As the French royal family's castle, many significant events have taken place here. The castle boasts not only a fascinating history but also captivating scenery.
1-2 hours
The entrance fee to the castle is 12 euros per person
Sunday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The Château d'Amboise has been a royal residence since the 15th century. It was favored by kings such as Charles VIII and François I. The château is also famous for being the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last years in Amboise. The château played a key role in the French Renaissance and remains a symbol of France's royal heritage.
The Château d'Amboise is located in the town of Amboise, in the Loire Valley of France. It can be accessed by train from Tours (about 20 minutes), or by car. Taxis and local buses are available from the town center, and the château is within walking distance from the Amboise train station.
The Château d'Amboise is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with extended hours in the summer months. The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee for the Château d'Amboise is around €14-€16 for adults, with discounts for children, students, and seniors. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via the official website.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays). Tickets can be booked up to a few weeks in advance through the official website to ensure entry on busy days.
A visit to the Château d'Amboise typically takes 2-3 hours, allowing time to explore the castle, the gardens, and the chapel where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. If you plan to take a boat ride on the Loire River, add an additional hour.
The must-see highlights include the royal apartments, the chapel of Saint-Hubert (where Leonardo da Vinci is buried), the terraced gardens overlooking the Loire River, and the Château's tower with panoramic views. Don’t miss the interactive exhibitions on the Renaissance period and the French monarchy.
Guided tours are available in French and English. Audio guides are also offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and German. These are available for rent at the entrance and provide an informative and self-paced tour of the château.
The best viewpoints for photography are from the top of the château’s tower, offering sweeping views of the Loire River and the town of Amboise. The terraced gardens and the chapel area also offer excellent photo opportunities, particularly with the château as a backdrop.
Start by exploring the royal apartments and then make your way to the chapel where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. Afterward, take a stroll through the terraced gardens before heading up to the tower for panoramic views. End your visit with a walk along the Loire River or a boat ride if time permits.
While there are no night visits or light shows, the château occasionally hosts special evening events, such as Renaissance-themed tours and concerts, especially during the summer months. Check the official website for updates on these events.
The Château d'Amboise can get quite crowded, particularly in the summer. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on weekdays. Spring and fall also offer quieter visits compared to peak summer months.
The château has toilets and a small gift shop selling souvenirs, books, and local products. There are no food or water facilities inside the château, but there are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby in the town of Amboise.
The Château d'Amboise is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. Some areas, such as the tower and parts of the gardens, may be difficult to access due to stairs and uneven surfaces. However, the main castle and gardens are accessible, and there are accessible facilities available.
Cards and mobile payments are accepted at the château’s entrance and gift shop. It’s recommended to carry cash as a backup, though it is not necessary for most transactions.
Nearby restaurants include Le Lion d'Or, a classic French bistro with a view of the Loire River, and La Mère Léon, known for its traditional French cuisine. Many cafés and casual dining options are also available in the town of Amboise.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Amboise, with dishes like ratatouille, salads, and vegetable-based pastries. Halal options may be more limited, but some restaurants offer meat-free and fish-based alternatives.
Several hotels are located near the Château d'Amboise, including Hôtel Le Choiseul, which offers comfortable rooms with views of the Loire River, and La Maison d'Alice, a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Amboise. For more luxurious stays, try Château de Pray, a historic hotel located a short drive from the château.
Nearby attractions include the Château de Chenonceau, just a short drive away, and the Château de Villandry, famous for its stunning gardens. The town of Amboise itself is also worth exploring for its quaint streets, cafés, and proximity to the Loire River.
There is a gift shop at the château selling souvenirs such as local wine, books on French history and the Renaissance period, and products related to Leonardo da Vinci. In Amboise, you'll also find artisanal goods, local cheeses, and wines as popular souvenirs.
After visiting the Château d'Amboise, the best options are to continue your trip by car, especially if you're heading to nearby châteaux like Chenonceau or Villandry. Alternatively, take a train from Amboise to Tours for further exploration of the Loire Valley.
