Top Castles in Centre-Val de Loire

Don’t miss the rooftop terrace! It might seem like a trek up the stairs, but the panoramic views are totally worth it.

If you're into photography like I am, aim for golden hour. The castle looks so magical in the evening light!

I recommend downloading the audio guide app before visiting. It’s free and gives you a deeper insight without the need for a guided tour.

Wear comfy shoes since you’ll do a lot of walking around the extensive grounds and inside the castle. Trust me, heels aren't a good idea!

I suggest getting the audio guide if you're into history. It really enriches the experience, and you'll learn so much more than just walking around.

Honestly, I recommend arriving right when they open at 9 AM. The morning light on the castle is just magical, and you'll avoid the crowds that build up by noon.

I learned the hard way—wear comfortable shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and some paths can be uneven... Trust me, your feet will thank you later

Don't just stick to the castle; the gardens are stunning! Spend at least an hour wandering around. I'd say that was my favorite part of the visit

I suggest packing a light snack and water. The café was a bit overpriced, and while the food was nice, it was hard to find a good place to sit. A picnic in the gardens would be lovely!

If you're planning to visit the gift shop don't do it before you've seen everything else. I ended up buying a bunch of souvenirs that I wasn't even sure I wanted while I was rushing through!

my advice is to grab the audio guide. it really added to the experience and helped me understand the significance of each exhibit better. totally worth the extra few euros!

I think you should budget a bit of time for the gardens. The park is super peaceful and beautiful, and we ended up spending way more time than planned just relaxing there.

My advice is to bring a packed lunch. The café on site is overpriced and can get crowded, plus you can find a lovely spot to eat in the gardens!

I recommend booking your tickets online ahead of time to avoid those long queues at the entrance. We saved about 30 minutes doing this!

I suggest checking out the interactive exhibits after the main tour; they add so much to the experience and you can do them at your own pace, unlike the rush during group tours.

I think visiting right when the castle opens, around 9 AM, is the best bet. You get a more peaceful experience and fewer tourists around for photos.

Check out the local bakery before heading to the castle. The fresh pastries are delicious and perfect to grab on the go. Trust me, you won't regret it!

If you can visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds on weekends. I went on a Saturday and it was hectic. Much more peaceful on a Tuesday morning!

Bring a picnic and enjoy it in the gardens near the castle. There's plenty of space and it's a great way to save money instead of eating at nearby cafés.

I suggest arriving around 10 AM to avoid the lunch rush. It's way more peaceful, and you get awesome photo ops without a ton of people in the way. Trust me, it makes a difference!

I think you should bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens. The views are stunning, and dining options nearby can get a bit pricey. Grab some local goodies and enjoy the atmosphere!