In the Steps of Leonardo Da Vinci Tour

In the Steps of Leonardo Da Vinci

in the steps of leonardo da vinci

From Chambord to Clos Lucé

This day jouney celebrates the enduring legacy of Leonardo da Vinci and his friendship with King François I, while allowing you to discover the allure of the Loire Valley and its magnificent castles.

The day unfolds in the grandeur of the Château de Chambord, the monumental Renaissance palace commissioned by François I in 1519 as a bold statement of royal ambition, famed for its extraordinary double-helix staircase often linked to Leonardo da Vinci — although the king himself spent only a few months there in total.

In the heart of the Loire Valley, refined local wines and cuisine complement the discovery of the Château d'Amboise, the royal residence overlooking the river where Leonardo spent his final years and is buried. Nearby, the Clos Lucé offers an intimate glimpse into the master’s final chapter, bringing his visionary inventions and legendary works such as the Mona Lisa to life — an inspiring immersion into Renaissance genius and the timeless elegance of the Loire.

1 Day
Private guided experience
Loire Valley, France

How we design your journey

Every journey is designed as a Signature or Premium Experience, shaped around your preferred level of comfort, personalization, and exclusivity.

We arrange seamless transfers, private chauffeurs, and expert local guides, along with curated hotel, restaurant, and activity reservations. Learn more in Our Concept.

ITINERARY

Arrival in the Loire Valley

Enjoy a pick up at your hotel in Paris or elsewhere by your guide and travel in a private vehicle with a dedicated driver for the day and a return transfer.

Chateau de Chambord

Commissioned in 1519 by Francis I of France, Chambord is the Loire’s largest château, famed for its skyline of ornate chimneys and vast forested estate. Its remarkable double-helix staircase — often linked to Leonardo da Vinci — and panoramic rooftop terraces make it one of the most extraordinary Renaissance landmarks in France.

Lunch Options

Savor local cuisine in a charming bistro, a refined countryside restaurant, or opt for a riverside picnic between the châteaux — perhaps paired with a private wine tasting in a troglodyte cellar, featuring Loire Valley gems like Vouvray and Chinon.

Chateau de Chenonceau

After lunch, discover one of the Loire Valley’s most enchanting estates, often called the “Ladies’ Castle,” shaped by influential women such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis. Built gracefully across the river and surrounded by elegant gardens, the Château de Chenonceau even served as a hospital during World War I. Admire its arches shimmering in the water, stroll through the jardins à la française, and explore the potager imagined by Catherine de' Medici — a timeless blend of beauty and power.

Optional Experiences

Hot-air balloon over the Loire. Stay overnight in a historical mansion and at sunrise drift above the Loire Valley and one of the castles, taking in sweeping views of rivers, vineyards, and castle rooftops.

Explore the Loire Valley. Extend your immersion and discover such gems as Blois, Chenonceau, Villandry, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, Cheverny, Saumur, Château d'Ussé, Chaumont-sur-Loire, etc.

Private photoshoot. Capture your journey with a professional photoshoot in Paris or the Loire Valley, framed by iconic landmarks or romantic château scenery.

Romantic river glide. Enjoy a private boat ride along the Cher River, floating gently beneath the arches of Chenonceau.

Active exploration. Discover the Loire by e-bike along scenic river paths and vineyard trails.

Culinary class. Take part in a hands-on cooking experience with a local chef, preparing refined French dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients.

Local countryside encounters. Visit a goat cheese farm or mushroom cave to experience authentic regional craftsmanship and flavors.

Extend your journey. Continue exploring France through Champagne, Normandy, Alsace, or other captivating regions.

Practical information

Each journey is fully tailored to your pace and can be designed as a Signature or Premium Experience, depending on your preferred level of comfort, personalization, and exclusivity. Learn more in Our Concept.

A professional driver and expert local guide accompany you throughout, while we handle all reservations and logistics — accommodations, transfers, restaurants, tastings, and activities — for a seamless experience.

Benefit from 24/7 English-speaking support during your travels and a flexible cancellation policy. Learn more in our FAQ.

Let's Plan Your Journey!

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