Chinon is a jewel in the Loire Valley, famous for its rich wines, medieval streets, and stunning châteaux. What makes Chinon stand out for tours is its deep connection to wine and history — and the fact that many experiences combine both. Whether you’re a wine lover eager to learn the secrets of Loire wines or a history buff wanting to explore medieval castles, Chinon offers options that feel authentic and personal. We particularly love the Picnic in the Vines tour for its combination of scenic beauty, relaxed tasting, and delicious local food. Plus, it includes a visit to Château du Petit Thouars, making it a perfect blend of wine, landscape, and history. For a broader vineyard experience, the English-Speaking Loire Winery Tours from Chinon take you deep into the region’s best vineyards with knowledgeable guides, skipping the tourist traps. And if cycling appeals, the Vineyard cycle tours let you pedal through the vineyards, tasting wine from independent producers along the way.
Quick Overview of Top Chinon Tours
Our list features a diverse range of experiences: intimate wine tastings at historic châteaux, full-day winery tours with picnics, cycling adventures through vineyards, and even vintage town tours in classic VW combis. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a comprehensive day of wine and sightseeing, there’s something here to suit your style. To see the full options, check the Picnic in the Vines for a romantic, scenic lunch or the English Speaking Loire Winery Tours for an in-depth vineyard exploration. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Picnic in the Vines – A Unique Loire Wine Experience
At number 1 on our list, Picnic in the Vines offers an intimate taste of Loire wines paired with a scenic picnic overlooking the vineyards — and it’s rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 160 reviews. The experience begins with a guided tour and wine tasting at Château du Petit Thouars, where you’ll learn about the region’s winemaking secrets. Afterward, guests select a bottle of their favorite wine to enjoy with a romantic picnic lunch amid the vines — vegetarian options included, which is a thoughtful touch.
What makes this tour stand out is its personal atmosphere and stunning setting. The hosts excel at sharing stories about the family estate, making the experience both educational and relaxing. Many reviewers highlight the peaceful countryside, the quality of the wines, and the delicious local food. The flexible departure times make it easy to fit into your schedule, whether you want a daytime escape or a sunset picnic.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a relaxed, scenic wine experience with a personal touch and a beautiful view, this tour is hard to beat — especially for couples or small groups seeking romance and authenticity.
2. English Speaking Loire Winery Tours originating from Chinon
Number 2 on our list is a fuller experience—English-speaking Loire Winery Tours from Chinon. Priced at around $272.53 per person, it’s ideal for those wanting to explore multiple vineyards in one trip. These tours typically last from 3 to 7 hours and include visits to Bourgueil, Chinon, and Saumur — some of the Loire’s most renowned wine regions.
This guided tour is perfect for anyone eager to meet winemakers and understand the region’s terroir and grape varieties. You’ll taste roughly ten different wines and enjoy a traditional French picnic lunch. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the tour’s flexibility allows you to visit three vineyards in a day, including cellar and cave visits.
Reviewers often mention how easy it is to ship wine home, thanks to the organized logistics, and how much they appreciated the personalized attention. It’s a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at Loire wines, making it suitable for serious wine enthusiasts or anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of French viticulture.
Bottom Line: For a full, well-rounded day with expert guides, multiple tastings, and regional insights, this tour offers excellent value — especially if you want to learn about Loire wines from passionate locals.
3. Vineyard cycle tours in and around Chinon, in the Loire Valley
Number 3 on our list takes you on a bike ride through Chinon’s vineyards with the Vineyard Cycle Tours. Created by wine-loving expats, this 5-6 hour ride is perfect for active travelers who want to combine exercise with wine tasting. For around $154.16, you get a guided ride to a select number of independent winemakers, where you’ll sample local wines directly from their bottles.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on independent producers and the opportunity to cycle through the scenic countryside, avoiding crowded tourist spots. The tour includes a picnic of local produce, so you’ll have plenty of energy for the ride. The guides are praised for their passion and knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational.
Guests love the relaxed pace and intimate small-group setting — capped at eight. Reviewers mention how Quintin’s friendly and humorous manner made the day memorable, and many comment on the quality of the wines tasted. It’s best suited for those comfortable cycling and wanting an active, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: If you prefer cycling over walking and wish to discover lesser-known wineries while tasting excellent wines, this tour hits the sweet spot.
4. Chinon : Discovery Tours and Wine Tasting
At number 4, Chinon: Discovery Tours and Wine Tasting offers a compact, 1.5-hour exploration of Chinon’s wine scene. For just $19 per person, you’ll visit a family-run vineyard that practices sustainable agriculture (HVE), blending tradition with modern techniques. The tour includes a commented tasting of six Chinon AOP wines, notably made from Cabernet Franc, paired with local delicacies.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Chinon’s signature wines without spending a whole day. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the focus on local, family-run wineries guarantees an authentic experience. Guests appreciate the detailed explanations and the chance to try different styles of Chinon wine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with limited time or a casual interest in wine, this tour provides a focused, quality tasting experience at a very accessible price.
5. Chinon: Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries with Picnic Lunch
Number 5 is a full-day cycling adventure between Chinon and Saumur, rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 8 reviews. For about $374 per person, you’ll pedal through vineyards, enjoy wine tastings at several wineries, and stop for a picturesque picnic lunch. This guided tour combines scenic cycling with wine exploration, giving you a chance to see the Loire’s countryside at a leisurely pace.
The highlights include visits to renowned wineries in Saumur, tasting their best wines, and enjoying the lovely rural landscape. Reviews mention how the guided aspect makes the day smooth, with friendly hosts leading the way. It suits active travelers who want a comprehensive day that combines physical activity with wine and food.
Bottom Line: If you love cycling and want to visit multiple wineries in a single day with a scenic backdrop, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and indulgence.
6. Epicurean Discovery Tour with Wine & Local Specialties
Number 6 provides a shorter, 1-hour 15-minute experience perfect for food and wine lovers. Epicurean Discovery Tour focuses on sampling local specialties paired with wines from the Château du Petit Thouars. It includes a visit to the château’s troglodyte caves, offering a taste of both tradition and modernity.
With a small-group atmosphere, you’ll learn about the winemaking techniques that create Loire’s diverse cuvées. Reviewers praise Sebastian for his engaging storytelling and excellent English. The tour includes tasting Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc wines, making it a good choice for those on a tight schedule but wanting a meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an introduction to Chinon wines paired with local foods, this tour offers depth in a short time frame.
7. Chinon Vintage Tour: Tour the town in a Combi VW
Number 7 offers a fun, vintage twist on sightseeing — a 2-hour tour in a classic VW Combi. For just $41, you’ll cruise through Chinon’s medieval streets, enjoying scenic views and a tasting in a local cellar. It’s a charming way to see the town from a different perspective, ideal for casual visitors wanting a relaxed overview.
Reviews highlight the nostalgic charm and friendly guides. The tour covers the main sights and includes a wine tasting, making it a light, entertaining experience suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a fun, quick introduction to Chinon with a nostalgic edge.
8. Castle Epicurean Experience with Wine & Local Specialties
At number 8, this castle experience combines history, wine, and cuisine over approximately two hours. You’ll tour Château du Petit Thouars, then enjoy a tasting of high-quality wines paired with artisanal local dishes in the castle’s elegant dining room.
Guests appreciate the combination of a vignoble and castle tour with a gourmet tasting. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a more luxurious, immersive experience in a historic setting.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy combining castle visits with gourmet wine tastings, this experience offers a memorable and refined outing.
9. Private Half-Day Excursion Departing from Chinon
Number 9 is a tailor-made private half-day tour for up to two people, priced at $463.44 per group. It’s a flexible option allowing you to visit Chinon’s streets, castles, and nearby villages like Crissay-sur-Manse and the castles of Azay-le-Rideau and Ussé.
The tour combines personalized itineraries with visits to notable sites, offering a relaxed pace and exclusive attention. Reviews are limited but positive, highlighting the flexibility and bespoke nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting exclusive access and the freedom to customize their sightseeing.
$463.44 per group (up to 2)
10. Loire Valley Tour & Wine Tasting Vouvray, Chinon, Bourgueil
Finally, number 10 is a full-day private tour covering three famous wine regions: Vouvray, Chinon, and Bourgueil. At about $1,087 per group, it’s ideal for those seeking an all-encompassing exploration of Loire wines and sights, departing from Tours or Amboise.
Your day includes guided tours and tastings at each region, with scenic drives and visits to historic sites like Chinon’s château. It’s perfect for serious wine enthusiasts and travelers with a full day to dedicate.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, all-in-one Loire Valley experience, this private tour offers the most coverage and personalization.
$1,087 per group up to 1
How to Choose Your Perfect Chinon Tour
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you want a romantic, scenic picnic, the Picnic in the Vines is perfect. For a deep dive into regional wines with expert guides, look at the English-Speaking Loire Winery Tours. If cycling is your thing, the Vineyard cycle tours combine activity and tasting in a relaxed setting.
Budget travelers should consider the Chinon Discovery Tour, which offers a quick yet informative experience. For those wanting a private, customized day, the Private Half-Day Excursion provides flexibility and personal attention.
Book early, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment. Think about what you’re most interested in — wine, castles, cycling — and pick a tour that matches your pace and curiosity.
Final Thoughts
Chinon offers a fantastic mix of wine, history, and scenery, with options suited to every taste and budget. Whether you choose a romantic picnic, an active cycle tour, or a comprehensive private day, each experience promises a taste of authentic Loire. For history lovers, the castle tours pair beautifully with tasting sessions, while wine aficionados will find full-day tours to satisfy their curiosity. Remember to book early — these tours fill up quickly in the warm months. No matter your choice, Chinon’s charm is sure to leave you with lasting memories.