Chambord is one of the most iconic castles in the Loire Valley, and it shines brightest when explored through a guided tour or a memorable aerial experience. The estate’s sprawling grounds, distinctive Renaissance architecture, and the chance to enjoy unique activities like hot air ballooning make it a prime destination for travelers. Among the options, we’re especially fond of the full-day guided tours that let you explore Chambord alongside other spectacular Loire castles, as well as the exhilarating hot air balloon rides that give you a bird’s-eye view of the region.
If you’re after a deep dive into the Loire’s castles and want to learn about their history from expert guides, the full-day tours from Amboise or Villesavin are excellent choices. But for a truly memorable experience that combines adventure with scenic beauty, the balloon flights stand out. Whether you prefer a guided land visit or soaring over the estate, this list covers all bases for your perfect Chambord adventure.
1. From Amboise : Full-Day Chambord & Chenonceau Chateaux
At number 1, this full-day tour offers an ideal combination of two of the Loire Valley’s most famous castles—Château de Chambord and Chenonceau. Starting from Amboise, the tour includes guided visits, free time for exploration, and even a local bakery stop, making it perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience. The tour runs throughout the year, including during the Christmas season, which adds a festive touch to the castle visits.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of guided insights and free time, allowing you to absorb the grandeur of each castle at your own pace. The guided portion of each visit is led by knowledgeable guides who can share fascinating details about the architecture, stories, and significance of these landmarks. With a rating of 5/5 based on 10 reviews, travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see two top castles in one day for around $228.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those who want a full-day, immersive experience with expert commentary and a chance to enjoy the Loire’s most celebrated castles in a single trip. The combination of guided tours and free time offers good value for the price.
2. Hot Air Balloon Flight: Flight Over Sologne and Castles
For around $269, the hot air balloon flight over Sologne, Loire, and castles is a spectacular way to see the region from above. This experience is available year-round, weather permitting, and offers approximately an hour of flight time. The flight covers Chambord, the Loire River, and the lesser-known Sologne forests, giving you a new perspective on this historic landscape.
What makes this experience truly special is the chance to float over the estate at sunrise or sunset, when the light bathes the castles and forests in a soft glow. The pilots have an average of 35 years of flying experience, ensuring safety and a professional touch. You’ll start at Les Ballons de Loire, where the crew prepares you for the peaceful glide over the region, followed by a traditional champagne toast after landing.
Guests often describe this as a magical, unforgettable experience—an absolute highlight for those who love sky-high adventures or want a unique perspective of Chambord and its surroundings. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a gentle, 1-hour flight and seeking a bucket-list experience.
Bottom line: This balloon ride offers unparalleled views and a peaceful, once-in-a-lifetime perspective of Chambord and the Loire landscape. It’s well worth the splurge if you’re eager for a scenic adventure above the castles.
3. From Villesavin: Full Day Guided E-bike Tour to Chambord
Priced at around $216, the full-day guided e-bike tour from Villesavin offers a lively way to explore the Loire Valley’s natural beauty. This 6-hour experience combines cycling through lush forests with visits to Chambord and Villesavin, a charming family castle.
The highlight is riding through Chambord Park, where you can enjoy the fresh air and scenic vistas as you pedal past the estate’s iconic trees and grounds. The guided visit of Chambord itself provides inside knowledge about its unique double-helix staircase and the estate’s royal past. The tour also includes a bucolic lunch beneath a linden tree at Villesavin, adding a touch of local charm.
What makes this tour appealing is its balance of physical activity and relaxed sightseeing, making it suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels who want to see the region actively. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the chance to explore both the natural and architectural wonders of the Loire.
Bottom line: For active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with exercise, this e-bike tour offers a fun, immersive way to experience Chambord and its surroundings. It’s especially good for those who enjoy cycling and want a more personal, hands-on experience.
$216 per person
4. Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Chambord
The hot air balloon flight over Chambord stands out as the most exclusive and scenic experience on our list. Priced at $386 per person, the 3-hour adventure includes a 1-hour flight over the estate, with experienced pilots guiding the balloon. The flight begins from Les Ballons de Loire, with transportation included.
This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, memorable outing. The pilots have over 35 years of flying experience, ensuring safety and professionalism. After the flight, you’ll enjoy an aperitif and breakfast at the landing site, adding a touch of elegance and relaxation to the day.
What makes this tour exceptional is the panoramic perspective it offers—seeing Chambord’s distinctive towers and the surrounding countryside from above. The gentle ascent and descent provide incredible photo opportunities and a sense of peacefulness. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a flight and looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Guest feedback often mentions how surreal and beautiful the views are, with some calling it “the highlight of their trip.” It’s ideal for couples, special occasions, or anyone wanting a top-tier experience.
Bottom line: This balloon flight delivers a refined, awe-inspiring view of Chambord and the Loire estate, perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, memorable experience above all.
$386 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, think about your budget, time, and what kind of experience excites you most. For a full-day, in-depth exploration, the Amboise full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at two castles, perfect for history lovers. If you’re after a unique perspective, the hot air balloon rides—whether the scenic flight or the luxurious balloon experience—are unparalleled.
Active travelers who enjoy cycling should consider the Villesavin e-bike tour for its blend of exercise and sightseeing. Meanwhile, those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure should not miss the balloon flight over Chambord, which combines comfort, stunning views, and expert pilots.
Booking early is advised, especially for balloon experiences, which are popular and weather-dependent. Be sure to check the season and weather conditions to make the most of your chosen tour.
Final Thoughts
Chambord’s rich scenery and grand architecture lend themselves well to a variety of memorable experiences. For history buffs or those who want a full day of exploration, the guided castle tours deliver depth and insight. If you’re craving a sense of adventure, soaring above the estate in a hot air balloon offers a breathtaking perspective. Active travelers will enjoy cycling through the forests, and those celebrating a special occasion will love the elegance of a balloon flight.
Whatever your preference, these tours showcase the best of Chambord and the Loire Valley. Be sure to book early to secure your spot—and get ready for an unforgettable journey into one of France’s most remarkable regions.