Blois - Discovering France

Travelling to Blois

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Blois, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Blois and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Blois, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Blois for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Blois

Blois is a city located in the Loire Valley region of France. It is situated on the banks of the Loire River and is known for its beautiful historic architecture, including the Château de Blois which was once the royal residence of several French kings. The city has a rich cultural history and there are many museums, art galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. Blois is also a great base from which to explore the surrounding Loire Valley region, which is known for its picturesque countryside, vineyards, and châteaux.

What to visit in Blois

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Blois, France: 1. Château de Blois - This is the iconic castle located in the city center of Blois and was built in the 17th century. It features a mix of architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance, making it a unique and historical landmark in the city. Visitors can explore the castle's royal apartments, chapel, courtyard, and gardens.
2. Cathedral of St. Louis - This cathedral is also known as the Blois Cathedral and was built in the 17th century. It is situated close to the Château de Blois and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows that depict various biblical scenes.
3. Maison de la Magie - This is a museum dedicated to magic and illusionism, located within the city center of Blois. Visitors can watch live magic shows, learn about the history of magic, and see old magic tricks and equipment.
4. Halle aux Grains - This is a historical building that now serves as a cultural center in Blois. It is a great place to visit if you want to attend a concert or exhibition.
5. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Blois - This is a fine art museum located near the Château de Blois. It features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks from various periods.
6. Jardin des simples - This is a beautiful and peaceful garden located on the grounds of the Hôtel de Sully. It features a collection of medicinal plants, flowers, and herbs.
7. Parc des Mini-Châteaux - This is a theme park located on the outskirts of Blois and is dedicated to miniature castles. Visitors can see replicas of famous French castles and learn about their history.
These are just a few of the popular tourist attractions that you can visit in Blois, France. Each site offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors to the city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Blois.

When to go on holiday to Blois

The best time to visit Blois is during the spring and the fall, specifically from April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the busy summer season. The summer months, from July to August, are ideal for those who enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, but it can be crowded and more expensive. Winters in Blois can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, but it can be a great time to visit for those who enjoy holiday events and winter sports. Ultimately, the best time to go to Blois depends on your preferences and interests.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Blois

There are several ways to get to Blois, France depending on where you are coming from. Here are some options: 1. By train: Blois has a train station that connects it to major cities in France, including Paris, Tours, and Orléans. You can check train schedules and purchase tickets on the SNCF website.
2. By car: Blois is located on the A10 motorway, which connects Paris to Bordeaux. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Paris to Blois.
3. By bus: Flixbus and Ouibus offer bus services to Blois from Paris and other major cities in France.
4. By plane: The closest airports to Blois are the Tours-Val de Loire Airport and the Paris-Orly Airport. From there, you can take a train or rent a car to get to Blois.
No matter which option you choose, traveling to Blois is relatively easy and convenient.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Blois, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Blois

Here are some typical foods of Blois in France, with a short description for each: 1. Tarte Tatin - A classic French dessert made with caramelized apples and a flaky pastry crust that is turned upside down when served.
2. Pâté de Pâques - A traditional savory pie that is made with pork, bacon, and vegetables, all encased in a pie crust and baked until golden brown.
3. Rillettes - A meat spread made with pork that is slow-cooked in its own fat until it becomes tender and then shredded.
4. Macarons - A popular French dessert made up of two almond-based meringue cookies that sandwich a creamy filling in between them.
5. Salade de Chevre Chaud - A salad made with warm slices of goats' cheese on toasted bread, topped with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing.
6. Fricassée de Gésiers - A delicious dish made with cooked chicken gizzards that are sautéed in a creamy sauce and served over mashed potatoes.
7. Poulet à la Crème - A savory chicken dish cooked in a creamy sauce that is flavored with mushrooms and white wine.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods that Blois has to offer. Bon appétit!
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Blois an expensive destination for tourists?

Blois, France can be considered a moderately expensive tourist destination compared to other cities in France. Accommodation and dining can be relatively expensive, especially during peak tourist season. However, there are ways to save money by staying in more affordable accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts or guesthouses outside of the city center, and trying local street food or grocery stores instead of eating at expensive restaurants. Additionally, many of the city's attractions, such as the Château de Blois and the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, offer student discounts and free admission on certain days.

Where to find accomodation in Blois

Blois is a small city in the Loire Valley of France, known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes and beautiful castles. The best areas to find accommodation in Blois for visiting the main attractions are: 1. The historic center (Centre Ville): This is the most popular area to stay in Blois, as it's within walking distance of the Chateau de Blois and the majority of the city's restaurants and shops.
2. Near the Loire River: If you're looking for a more tranquil setting, you can opt to stay in the area near the Loire River. This will give you easy access to the riverbanks for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
3. The Castle District (Quartier du Chateau): This is the area located around the Chateau de Blois and is perfect for history enthusiasts looking to explore the castle and its surrounding attractions.
Overall, any of these areas would be ideal for visitors to Blois, as they offer easy access to the city's main attractions and a range of accommodation options at varying price points.
You can check hotel prices at Blois here:
Booking.com

Is Blois a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Blois is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Blois is relatively low compared to other cities in France. However, as with any city, it is always important to take precautions such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, keeping your valuables secure, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to follow any safety advice or warnings from local authorities or your accommodations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Blois.

What type of travelers will enjoy Blois the most?

Blois in France can be enjoyed by different types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. For couples, Blois has a romantic atmosphere with its Renaissance architecture, beautiful gardens, and charming narrow streets. They can spend time exploring the château, taking a stroll along the Loire river, or enjoying a wine tasting session in one of the many wineries in the region.
For young people looking for fun, Blois has several bars and pubs where they can enjoy a night out with friends. The town also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Festival BD Boum (comic book festival) and the Fête de la Musique (music festival).
Families will enjoy the history and culture of Blois. There are plenty of activities for kids, such as visiting the Maison de la Magie (House of Magic) and the Musée de l'Objet (Object Museum). Children will also love exploring the nearby Château de Chambord, which is just a short drive from Blois.

How to get around Blois

The best ways to move around Blois are by foot, bike, car, or public transportation. The town is quite walkable as many of the interesting sights and attractions are located in the historic center. Biking is also a great option as there are many bike paths and rental options available.
If you prefer driving, there are several car rental companies in the area and parking is available throughout the town. However, be aware that parking can be difficult to find in the historic center.
Public transportation options include buses and trains. The local bus company, Fil Bleu, operates several routes throughout Blois and the surrounding areas. The train station is located just outside the town center and offers connections to other cities in the Loire Valley and beyond.

What to see around Blois

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Blois, France: 1. Château de Chambord: This majestic castle is only a 15-minute drive from Blois. It is the largest and most impressive castle in the Loire Valley.
2. ZooParc de Beauval: This zoo is one of the best in Europe and is only an hour's drive from Blois. It is home to over 10,000 animals from around the world.
3. Chenonceau Castle: Located about 45 minutes from Blois by car, this impressive castle spans the Cher River and features beautiful gardens.
4. Amboise: This charming town is about 30 minutes away by car and offers a beautiful castle, the Chateau d'Amboise, and the Clos Luce, the former home of Leonardo da Vinci.
5. Tours: This historic city is about an hour away by car and is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and bustling food market, Les Halles.
6. Chartres Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is about 90 minutes away by car and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning stained-glass windows.
7. Orléans: This city is about an hour away by car and is known as the birthplace of Joan of Arc. It offers a beautiful historic district and a cathedral.
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