Discover Blois: A Loire Valley Gem
Perched on hills above the Loire River, Blois is a town of elegance and history, with the Château Royal de Blois and Cathédrale Saint-Louis dominating its skyline. Known for its 15th-century rise to prominence, the city's Renaissance spirit is evident in its noble townhouses and charming timbered homes.
Blois is a cultural haven, offering a serene setting to explore the Loire Valley's heritage. Visitors can book tickets online to avoid queues at popular attractions.
Explore the top attractions in Blois for a memorable visit.
1. Château Royal de Blois
The Château Royal de Blois, a highlight in the Loire Valley, has housed Dukes, Kings, and Counts. Its Renaissance architecture features from the 13th to 17th centuries, including the Louis XII wing and the Francis I wing with its ornate staircase.
The château's Musée des Beaux-Arts displays art from the 16th to 19th centuries, and the Jardins du Roy offer a contemporary take on Renaissance gardens, hosting cultural events. The château is open daily, excluding December 25th and January 1st, and features a Son & Lumière show in spring and summer.
Across from the castle, L'Orangerie du Château serves modern French cuisine.
Address: 6 Place du Château, 41000 Blois
Official site: http://www.chateaudeblois.fr/?lang=en
2. Vieux Blois (Old Town)
The historic center, Vieux Blois, is a maze of half-timbered houses and narrow streets. Notable sites include the Ancien Evêché, now the Town Hall, and the Jardins de l'Évêché with its Rose Garden and views of the Loire Valley.
Visitors can wander the medieval Rue Pierre de Blois, Rue Denis Papin, and Rue du Puits Châtel, and admire Renaissance houses like the Maison des Acrobates and Hôtel Sardini.
3. Maison de la Magie (House of Magic)
Opposite the Château Royal, the Maison de la Magie is Europe's only museum dedicated to magic. It features a fire-breathing dragon and exhibits on magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin and the history of magic.
Address: Maison de la Magie, 1 Place du Château, 41000 Blois
4. Eglise Saint-Nicolas
This church, dating back to the 12th century, combines Gothic and Romanesque styles and houses contemporary stained-glass windows.
Address: Parvis Saint-Nicolas, 41000 Blois
5. Eglise Saint-Vincent-de-Paul
In central Blois, this Baroque church features a dramatic interior with red marble columns and ornate chapels.
Address: Place Victor Hugo, 41000 Blois
6. Cathédrale Saint-Louis
With a history dating back to early Christian times, the cathedral has been rebuilt several times and features contemporary stained-glass windows.
Address: Place Saint-Louis, 41000 Blois
7. Eglise Saint-Saturnin
One of Blois's oldest churches, Saint Saturnin was reconstructed in the 16th century and showcases Gothic architecture and fine art.
Address: 13 Rue Munier, Blois
8. Jardin de Plantes Médicinales
This garden, also known as the "Garden of the Five Senses," is a tranquil space with medicinal and aromatic plants.
Address: Place Saint-Louis, Blois
9. Festivals
Blois hosts "Des Lyres d'été," a summer festival with over 300 events, and the Carnaval de Blois in March, featuring parades and performances.
10. Fondation du Doute: Museum of Contemporary Art
This museum showcases contemporary art from the 1960s and 1970s and includes a café and boutique.
Address: 14 Rue de la Paix, Blois
11. Music Concerts & Cultural Performances
Blois offers a rich cultural scene with venues like Maison de Bégon, Chato'do, and Halle aux Grains hosting a variety of performances.
Where to Stay in Blois for Sightseeing
For the best experience, stay in the historic center of Blois. Luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels are available, with countryside options for a more relaxed visit.
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