Discover Centre | A Visitor's Introduction to Centre

Amboise, set along the Loire River, is crowned by its elegant château once home to French kings. The town is deeply tied to Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years here at Clos Lucé. Charming streets, riverside views, and nearby vineyards create a perfect blend of history and relaxation, making Amboise a jewel of the Loire Valley.

Chambord, a small village in France’s Loir-et-Cher department, sits beside the grand Château de Chambord. With fewer than 200 residents, it offers a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by forests and meadows. The village is part of the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage site, welcoming visitors with charming guesthouses, local cuisine, and easy access to cycling and walking trails.

Orléans, a vibrant Loire city, is closely tied to Joan of Arc, who helped liberate it in 1429. The majestic Sainte-Croix Cathedral dominates the skyline, while the old town offers elegant squares, half-timbered houses, and lively cafés. With museums, riverfront walks, and proximity to Loire Valley châteaux, Orléans blends rich history with a dynamic, welcoming atmosphere.

Bourges, in central France, is famed for its UNESCO-listed Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Étienne, with stunning stained glass and intricate carvings. The medieval old town charms with half-timbered houses, narrow lanes, and lively squares. Canals and gardens add greenery, while museums showcase art and history. Bourges also hosts the renowned Printemps de Bourges music festival, blending heritage with vibrant culture.

Chartres, southwest of Paris, is world-renowned for its UNESCO-listed cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with remarkable stained glass windows. The medieval old town, with half-timbered houses and riverside walks along the Eure, adds to its charm. Illuminated displays, museums, and lively markets enrich the atmosphere, making Chartres both a spiritual landmark and a cultural destination.

Amboise, set along the Loire River, is crowned by its elegant château once home to French kings. The town is deeply tied to Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years here at Clos Lucé. Charming streets, riverside views, and nearby vineyards create a perfect blend of history and relaxation, making Amboise a jewel of the Loire Valley.

Chinon, set along the Vienne River, is crowned by its imposing medieval fortress overlooking vineyards and rooftops. Known for its rich red wines, the town’s winding streets reveal half-timbered houses, lively squares, and historic ties to Joan of Arc. With riverside charm, local markets, and a strong winemaking tradition, Chinon blends history, flavor, and atmosphere beautifully.

Loches impresses with its formidable medieval citadel, towering above a maze of cobbled streets and Renaissance houses. Famous for its royal connections and ties to Joan of Arc, the town blends history with charm. Its lively markets, ancient churches, and riverside setting create an authentic atmosphere, making Loches a must-visit for lovers of heritage and character in the Loire Valley.

Rochecorbon, nestled along the Loire near Tours, is renowned for its troglodyte dwellings and celebrated Vouvray vineyards. Steep cliffs and limestone caves give the village a unique character, while the riverside offers peaceful walks and cycling paths. Its historic church, wine cellars, and panoramic views make it a charming stop for exploring the cultural and natural treasures of the Loire Valley.

Vouvray, perched on the Loire’s north bank, is celebrated for its Chenin Blanc wines, ranging from sparkling to sweet. The village is dotted with wine cellars carved into limestone cliffs, offering tastings in unique troglodyte settings. With scenic river views, vineyard landscapes, and proximity to Tours, Vouvray is a perfect blend of wine heritage, natural beauty, and Loire Valley authenticity.

Blois, set on the Loire River, charms with its historic old town and the magnificent Château de Blois, once home to French kings. Cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and lively squares create a vibrant atmosphere. The city also offers panoramic river views and easy access to nearby châteaux, making it an ideal gateway to the Loire Valley’s royal and cultural heritage.

Romorantin-Lanthenay, nestled in the Sologne region, is known as the “capital of Sologne.” Surrounded by forests, lakes, and wildlife, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. The town features the Musée de Sologne, charming riverside walks, and a lively market. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring Sologne’s natural beauty as well as Loire Valley châteaux and nearby vineyards.

Orléans, a vibrant Loire city, is closely tied to Joan of Arc, who helped liberate it in 1429. The majestic Sainte-Croix Cathedral dominates the skyline, while the old town offers elegant squares, half-timbered houses, and lively cafés. With museums, riverfront walks, and proximity to Loire Valley châteaux, Orléans blends rich history with a dynamic, welcoming atmosphere.