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9 Available Tour Excursions in Chinon
Let us take you to some of the best vineyards in the area - Chinon, Saumur, Bourgueil - and discover the amazing wines - whites, rosés, reds, and sparkling. Walk the vineyards, tour the caves, and taste wines (10+ wines) with the winemakers. Full-day tours include 3 wineries and a homemade picnic lunch served at a vineyard. The lunch or snacks can be added to a half-day tour (for an additional fee) to make a truly French experience. You'll have the opportunity to buy wines at each vineyard and we can arrange shipping services for the wine to be delivered to your home! NOTE: Pickup originating from a 10km radius of Chinon. If it's a one-person, private tour, there is a 60 euro surcharge. For pickup locations in Saumur, an additional fee will be added.
Price: $275.60
Duration: 3-7 hours
I'm formerly of Devon in the United Kingdom but now live in Chinon. I've always cycled and loved my bike, and for the best part of my adult life, always loved wine... this is me! With my family, I now find ourselves living amongst vineyards, with wine producers creating something very special on our doorstep. Chinon wine is recognised as being very special across France, yet throughout the rest of the world it's lesser known and we're keen to spread the word about the local wine through vineyard tours! We spent years and years holidaying in France before moving here, never quite summoning up the courage to head in through the big barn doors of a wine producer, but now we've started we can't stop! This type of visit is so important to many independent producers, and we're now keen to share this experience with you. First and foremost our vineyard tours by bike are designed to be a fun experience, for you, family and friends to make the most of your time in the Chinon area.
Price: $155.77
Duration: 5-6 hours
The Château du Petit Thouars has been in the same family since 1636. Enjoy an interesting and informative vineyard and cellar tour followed by a view of the ground floor of the château and then a full wine tasting paired with artisanal local products, which takes place in the dining room of the château.
Price: $118.99
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy a unique day exploring French gastronomy. A taste walk in the Loire Valley! Chinon, a historic city full of heritage. In a small group, the chef will accompany you and adapt to your expectations in order to make the purchases at the Point of Sale for lunch. Together, discover the local specialties thanks to the knowledge of the chef. On the way, you will stop for a wine tasting. Your picnic will be prepared with your chef, in all conviviality, on the banks of the Loire. A generous and warm moment, where you will discover some Ace tips to enhance a picnic and reveal the flavors of the Ligurian terroir.
Price: $113.84
Duration: 5 hours
Embark on a side-rant experience! You will enjoy strolling the cobbled streets of Chinon, crossing the most renowned estates of the Chinon appellation and visiting Crissay-sur-Manse, one of the most beautiful villages in France. You can also admire the magnificent castle of Azay-le-Rideau, the most confidential castle of Islette, or the castle of Ussé, the castle of Sleeping Beauty The most beautiful walk in Touraine will offer you an explosion of colors to the rhythm of the seasons. The sidecar is undoubtedly the most suitable and original way to appreciate the magnificent landscapes. Very comfortable and accessible to everyone, it will be suitable for families, friends, looking for adventure or gentle transport.
Price: $479.31
Duration: 4 hours
Located 10 minutes from Chinon at our family-run château in the Loire Valley, enjoy a tour of our Cabernet Franc and Chenin blanc AOC CHINON vineyard, leading to a visit of the cellar, then a wine tasting in a historic tasting room. After which you will be escorted to your private picnic spot to enjoy a lovely lunch at a beautifully dressed table overlooking the vines with 1 bottle. In winter time, you will be seated in an vaulted indoor location with cozy candles and sheepskins to warm your chair. An unforgettable Loire Valley experience from an award-winning family-run winery. Please note that the tour and tasting can be combined with other groups. However the picnic portion is always in a private location for you and your group alone.
Price: $91.54
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the unique history of the Château du Petit Thouars, a family-owned castle built in 1423 by the Dukes of Thouars. Owned by the Aubert du Petit Thouars family since 1636, the castle has been passed from father-to-son in a direct line, with a vineyard in existence on the property for hundreds of years. Visitors will visit Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc vines and learn about vineyard practices in the Chinon appellation. A leisurely stroll will take you to our troglodyte caves where our wines are vinified and aged on-site. You will be walked through French wine vinification practices. Returning to the château you will taste our range of wines, paired with delicious local specialties.
Price: $56.73
Duration: 1 hours
Savor a delightful afternoon tea experience at the Château du Petit Thouars, a family estate built in 1423 and in the same family since 1636. Explore the picturesque grounds featuring an ancient dovecote and lush vines before indulging in an exquisite tea service in the beautifully adorned dining room, complete with stunning historic artwork. This exquisite gathering offers a taste of aristocratic life with high-quality tea from importers Georges Cannon or fresh-brewed coffee, accompanied by cucumber sandwiches and sweet treats such as local fruit tarts or macaroons (according to the season). An unforgettable moment awaits in this enchanting French château setting. - Enjoy afternoon tea/coffee hosted by the Countess du Petit Thouars - Explore the scenic château grounds with highlights like the ancient dovecote - Indulge in high-quality tea, cucumber sandwiches, and seasonal sweets - Experience a taste of aristocratic life in a historic dining room adorned with exquisite paintings
Price: $107.84
Duration: 1 hours
Embark on a side-rant experience to discover beautifully preserved heritage treasures, such as the Fortress of Chinon, the castles of Villandry, Langeais, Ussé, or even Azay-le-Rideau, which you will visit. The most beautiful walk in Touraine will take you to see Crissay-sur-Manse, one of the most beautiful villages in France, or even little-known buildings, such as the Prieuré Saint-Léonard and the Eiffel bridge at Ile-Bouchard. The sidecar is undoubtedly the most suitable and original way to appreciate the magnificent landscapes. Very comfortable and accessible to everyone, it will be suitable for families, friends, looking for adventure or gentle transport.
Price: $718.96
Duration: 7 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: French, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Oceanic
- Timezone: Europe/Paris
- Population: Approximately 7,200 residents
- Best Time to Visit: time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter France visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Others may require a Schengen visa. Visa on arrival is not available. E-visa options are generally not applicable for France; travelers should apply for a Schengen visa in advance if required.
About Chinon
Chinon is a charming medieval town nestled in the Loire Valley, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant wine culture. Its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and the imposing Château de Chinon overlooking the Vienne River create a picturesque setting that transports visitors back to the Middle Ages. Chinon is famously linked to Joan of Arc and offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The town is a haven for wine lovers, as it lies in one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, producing excellent reds primarily from the Cabernet Franc grape. Visitors are drawn to Chinon for its authentic French small-town atmosphere, historic landmarks, and the opportunity to explore vineyards and taste local wines. The combination of history, gastronomy, and scenic landscapes makes Chinon a compelling destination for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience away from the bustle of larger cities.
Chinon Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Loire Valley
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The ideal time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and a rain jacket as weather can be variable. Respect local customs such as greeting shopkeepers with “Bonjour” and dining etiquette. Chinon is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some euros in cash is advisable for small purchases. Learning a few basic French phrases enhances the experience.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $250
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Château de Chinon – A majestic medieval fortress with panoramic views, historic exhibitions, and connections to Joan of Arc. 2. Église Saint-Maurice – A beautiful Gothic church with impressive stained glass and architectural details. 3. Old Town – Wander through narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses, quaint shops, and cafes. 4. Musée Jeanne d’Arc – Dedicated to the life and legacy of Joan of Arc, showcasing artifacts and historical context. 5. Vienne Riverbanks – Scenic walking paths along the river ideal for relaxation and photography.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours in the surrounding vineyards, exploring the renowned Chinon wine appellation. Walking and cycling along the Loire Valley trails provide scenic outdoor experiences. Cultural activities include guided historical tours, visiting museums, and attending local festivals. The river offers opportunities for kayaking and leisurely boat rides. Food lovers can participate in cooking classes focusing on regional cuisine. Seasonal events such as medieval fairs and wine harvest celebrations add unique local flavor to the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Chinon’s cuisine reflects traditional French flavors with a focus on local produce and wines. Signature dishes include rillettes (slow-cooked pork spread), goat cheese from the Loire region, and freshwater fish from nearby rivers. The town is known for hearty stews and dishes paired perfectly with Chinon red wines. Dining customs emphasize leisurely meals with multiple courses. Noteworthy restaurants include La Table de Jeanne and Le Lion d’Or, both offering authentic regional menus and excellent wine selections.
Getting Around
Chinon is accessible by train from Paris and Tours, with regular regional services. The nearest major airport is Tours Val de Loire Airport. Local transportation includes buses and taxis, but the town is compact and best explored on foot. Bicycle rentals are popular for exploring the surrounding countryside. Costs for local transport are moderate, and walking is often the most convenient way to navigate the historic center.
Travel Tips
The ideal time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and a rain jacket as weather can be variable. Respect local customs such as greeting shopkeepers with “Bonjour” and dining etiquette. Chinon is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some euros in cash is advisable for small purchases. Learning a few basic French phrases enhances the experience.
Culture & Customs
Chinon’s culture is deeply rooted in its medieval heritage and wine traditions. Social customs include polite greetings and a relaxed pace of life. Important festivals include the annual Chinon Wine Festival and medieval reenactments celebrating local history. Visitors should be mindful of quiet hours in residential areas and dress modestly when visiting churches. Sharing meals and wine is a key part of social interaction. Respect for historical sites and local traditions is appreciated.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..