7-Day Europe Castle Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 7-day Europe Castle itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaEurope Castle travel expert at TourRadar

• 5 Day Loire Valley Itinerary, incl. Blois and Chitenay

  The Loire Valley opens up with Château de Chambord's 440 rooms, medieval Fougères-sur-Bièvre, and 18 châteaux in Celettes. Daily routes range 24-64km from your Chitenay base, supported by detailed maps and GPS tracking for self-guided exploration.

  

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  • Day 1

    Arrival in Chitenay

    Start your Loire Valley adventure in Chitenay, a quiet village just 15 minutes south of Blois. Getting there is simple with regular trains from Paris to Blois taking about 1.5 hours. Your bike will be ready when you arrive or by 9 AM the next morning. Take some time to walk around the village center and check out the local shops. It's smart to test your bike in the evening to make sure it fits well and get used to the gears before your first full day of cycling.

    
  • Days 2-4

    Loire Valley Cycling Routes

    You'll have three full days to explore different cycling routes, each offering its own special castle experiences. For beginners or families: Try the 24km Fougères-sur-Bièvre loop. This easy route takes you along quiet country roads and bike paths. A recent visitor shared: "The medieval castle of Fougères was a delightful surprise - much less crowded than the famous châteaux but full of authentic charm." For moderate cyclists: The 38km Chaumont-sur-Loire route shows off beautiful river views. You'll ride through old fishing villages like Candé-sur-Beuvron. If you're visiting between June and September, stop at Château de Chaumont's International Garden Festival. Bring a light jacket since mornings can be cool near the river, even in summer. For experienced riders: The 64km Chambord loop is your best bet. Leave by 8 AM to avoid crowds and afternoon heat. While the route through Chambord's forest is well-marked, bring extra water since fountains are limited. Plan about 2 hours to see the château's 440 rooms. Important cycling tips: - You'll ride on both dedicated "Loire à Vélo" paths and quiet country roads - The best cycling months are May through September when conditions are ideal - Bikes come with panniers, repair kit, and lock - E-bikes are available for an extra fee - Save the GPS tracks to your phone before riding

    
  • Day 5

    Departure from Chitenay

    Have breakfast before heading to Blois station. Book trains to Paris after 10 AM to avoid rushing. The hotel can arrange station transport for an extra fee if you prefer not to cycle.

    

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• 5 Day Loire Valley Itinerary, incl. Amboise and Blois

  The 5-day cycling route from Amboise to Blois showcases 4 iconic French castles. The magnificent Chateau de Chenonceau spans the Cher River, while Chateau de Chambord captivates with unique architecture. Elegant Chateaux of Cheverny completes the journey. Package includes 4 nights in charming hotels, daily breakfast, and hybrid bike rental for rides through Loire Valley's flat terrain.

  

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  • Day 1

    Arrive in Amboise

    Take the TGV from Paris to Saint Pierre des Corps (1 hour) followed by a 15-minute taxi to Amboise. If you arrive before 4 PM, visit Château d'Amboise or Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's final home. Book your TGV tickets 2-3 months in advance for the best rates of $35-45.

    
  • Day 2

    Amboise to Chenonceau Loop (25-30 km)

    Start your day early to avoid the crowds at Chenonceau. The flat route takes you through forest trails and past the Parc Mini-Châteaux. Plan about 2 hours to explore Chenonceau. Its unique position over the Cher River offers excellent photo opportunities, especially in the morning light. A recent visitor shared: "The bike route to Chenonceau was well-marked and peaceful. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the castle gardens, but bring cash as the nearby shops don't all accept cards."

    
  • Day 3

    Amboise to Blois (30-45 km)

    Pick between two routes: go directly via Chaumont-sur-Loire (30 km) or take the scenic countryside path past Château de Fougères (45 km). Consider planning your trip during the International Garden Festival at Chaumont (April-November). The roads are quiet but watch for occasional hills. Bring extra water since rural water spots are limited.

    
  • Day 4

    Chambord and Cheverny Loop from Blois (35-60 km)

    Choose between a shorter route to Chambord (35 km round trip) or a longer option including Cheverny (60 km). Visit Chambord early to properly explore its 426 rooms and famous double-helix staircase. Stop in Bracieux for artisanal chocolates. The route stays flat but afternoon winds can be strong, so plan accordingly.

    
  • Day 5

    Departure from Blois

    Trains to Paris run regularly (1.5 hours). Book ahead and allow extra time if returning a rental bike. Take an early afternoon train to avoid Paris rush hour.

    

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• 7 Day Ireland Itinerary, incl. Dublin and Galway

  This 7-day Irish adventure covers 19 destinations, from medieval Clonmacnoise monastery to majestic Blarney Castle. Accommodations span Galway (2 nights), Dingle (2 nights), Killarney and Kinsale. The UNESCO Cliffs of Moher and Kylemore Abbey highlight the route. Costs approx. $300 per day, including authentic B&Bs and Irish breakfasts.

  

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  • Day 1

    Dublin to Kinsale

    Get an early start from Dublin to avoid traffic. Drive 2.5 hours south to the Rock of Cashel and try to arrive by 9:30 AM before the tour buses. A recent visitor shared: "The Rock of Cashel was stunning with its natural setting and historic architecture - get there early to really soak in the atmosphere without crowds." Visit medieval Cahir Castle next, then head to Kinsale. This pretty harbor town is perfect for an evening walk and fresh seafood dinner.

    
  • Days 2-3

    Killarney & Ring of Kerry

    Visit Blarney Castle first (arrive by 8:30 AM to avoid long lines). Take the Ring of Kerry route and stop for photos at Ladies View and Moll's Gap. Stay in Killarney for good access to the national park. A recent visitor noted: "The sheep dog demonstration near Killarney was a highlight - watching the border collies herd sheep and getting to bottle-feed baby lambs made it so special." Use day 3 to explore Killarney National Park by bike, boat or traditional jaunting car.

    
  • Days 4-5

    Dingle Peninsula

    You'll find Ireland's most dramatic coastal views on the Dingle Peninsula. Take the Slea Head loop in the morning when visibility is best. One traveler advised: "The Slea Head Drive had incredible views of the Blasket Islands. Go early before tour buses arrive." Spend your afternoon trying local food and craft beer in Dingle town. Day 5 gives you time for more exploration or activities like sea kayaking or horseback riding on Ventry Beach.

    
  • Day 6

    Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

    Take the 30-minute Shannon Ferry to County Clare. See the famous Cliffs of Moher - plan to arrive by 10 AM for fewer crowds and better photos. Drive through the unique Burren landscape to reach vibrant Galway City. A visitor suggested: "The Cliffs were incredible but get there early. By noon, the viewing areas get very crowded."

    
  • Day 7

    Connemara & Return to Dublin

    Start your morning in beautiful Connemara. Visit Kylemore Abbey and drive through the Inagh Valley. One traveler described it perfectly: "The drive through Connemara was stunning - wild ponies, mountain sheep, and amazing views around every turn." Head back to Dublin through Ireland's heartlands to arrive by 5:30 PM.

    

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