Amboise: The Complete Guide

In the winding streets around the Château Royal, a handful of elegant townhouses have been converted into intimate boltholes. Hôtel Le Choiseul sits on a quiet square just steps from the drawbridge, its rooms blending exposed stone walls with velvet armchairs and champagne minibars. A block away, Le Manoir Les Minimes occupies a former 17th-century convent; its cloistered courtyard and vaulted lounges lend a sense of serene history, while polished wood floors and four-poster beds ensure modern comfort.

Along the Loire banks, riverside lodgings capture the ebb and flow of the water and the golden light that shimmers across the town. Hôtel Anne d’Anjou boasts balconies overlooking passing bateaux and a terrace café for lazy breakfasts by the river. Just around the bend, Le Clos d’Amboise is set in a troglodyte cave house planted into the hillside; its garden is a hidden oasis where you can sip evening wine beneath climbing roses.

A short drive or cycle ride from the centre brings you to country estates and spa retreats set amid the vineyards and forests of the Loire Valley. Château de Pray opens its 16th-century salons and manicured parterres to guests, with rooms overlooking parkland and a Michelin-starred restaurant on site. Nearby, Les Hautes Sources – Relais & Châteaux perches above the Cisse River, offering spa therapies, an indoor pool and suites designed like elegant country cottages, making it an ideal base for exploring the châteaux trail.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Amboise. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Amboise in Spring

Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Amboise, as the weather is mild and the town’s gardens and parks come to life with blooming flowers. The pleasant temperatures make it ideal for exploring the town’s outdoor attractions, such as Château d’Amboise and the scenic riverside. Spring also marks the start of the local festival season, adding a vibrant atmosphere to the town.

Visiting Amboise in Summer

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Amboise, with warm weather perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like cycling or boat tours on the Loire River. The town comes alive with tourists, local markets, and outdoor events, making it a lively time to experience Amboise’s charm. However, it is also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

Visiting Amboise in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) is a great time to visit Amboise, as the weather remains pleasant, and the autumn foliage creates beautiful colors around the town and its surrounding vineyards. The crowds begin to thin out, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful visit to the château and other attractions. It’s also harvest season in the Loire Valley, so visitors can enjoy wine tastings and local culinary delights.

Visiting Amboise in Winter

Winter (December to February) in Amboise is quieter and offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those looking for a more tranquil escape. The cooler temperatures make it perfect for exploring the town’s indoor attractions, such as museums and the historic Château d’Amboise. The holiday season also brings festive markets and decorations, creating a cozy and charming ambiance in the town.

Getting to Amboise

Amboise is a charming town in the Loire Valley, easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Whether you’re arriving by air, train, or car, the town is well-connected and convenient for visitors.

By Air

The nearest major airport to Amboise is Tours Val de Loire Airport (TUF), which is about 25 kilometers away. The airport offers domestic flights and some international routes. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Amboise in approximately 30 minutes.

By Train

Amboise is well-connected by train, with the Gare d’Amboise station offering regular services from Tours and other major cities in the Loire Valley. The train ride offers scenic views of the countryside, and the station is located just a short distance from the town center. The train is a convenient option for visitors traveling from Paris or other nearby cities. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

By Car

Driving to Amboise is easy, as it is accessible via the A10 and A85 highways. The town is approximately a 2-hour drive from Paris, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Renting a car allows you to explore the surrounding vineyards and picturesque towns in the Loire Valley at your own pace. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Getting Around Amboise

Amboise is a compact town, and many of its attractions can be easily explored on foot. The town’s charming streets, Château d’Amboise, and other sites are within walking distance from each other. For those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a bike or using a taxi can be a convenient option. Public transportation in Amboise is limited, but the town’s small size makes it easy to navigate.