"Amboise: A Civilized Place" Top 5 Page for this destination Amboise by von.otter

Amboise Travel Guide: 128 reviews and 368 photos

Town of Amboise seen across the River Loire, 07/08 - Amboise
Town of Amboise seen across the River Loire, 07/08

“You may go to Amboise either from Blois or from Tours; it is about half-way between these towns.
The great point is to go.” — from “A Little Tour In France” 1884 by Henry James

What was true in 1884 is true today, when visiting the Loire Valley, make a point to go to Amboise.

It is a sweet town of roughly 11,500 souls on the left bank of the River Loire. If you are a fan of history and architecture you will enjoy a visit here. Much took place in this market town that shaped the history of France, with ramifications for Western civilization.

There is free parking near the tourist information center by the river, just to the west of the bridge. Leave your car there and wander the streets. Visit the château, with its grand view of the river, and further in town, visit the manor house, Clos-Lucé, which was the last home of the Renaissance genius, Leonardo da Vinci.

The River Loire is lovely at this point, especially toward sunset. There is an island in the river near the bridge; locals fish from the riverbank or from boats.

It is a very relaxing town, with a civilized pace about it. Enjoy!

Château d’Amboise, July 2008 - Amboise

Château d’Amboise, July 2008

The rock promontory upon which Château d’Amboise is built has been part of a defensive position of this area of the River Loire since the Gallo-Roman period. Once on the château's ground it is easy to see the advantage from this position.

Château d’Amboise, July 2008 - Amboise

Château d’Amboise, July 2008

Although proudly lit at night, the castle seems to hold secrets in the dark.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:Great history and natural beauty combine to entice.
  • In a nutshell:I would like to live here.
  • Last visit to Amboise: Jul 2008
  • Intro Updated Mar 7, 2009
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Reviews (21)

Château du Clos-Lucé, Da Vinci’s Bedroom, 07/08 - Amboise Château du Clos-Lucé: The Interior Things to Do (15)

“Every now and then go away, have a little relaxation, for when you come back to your work your judgment will be surer.... more travel advice

Château de Clos-Lucé, The Chapel, July 2008 - Amboise Château du Clos-Lucé: The Chapel Things to Do (15)

“I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we... more travel advice

Château du Clos-Lucé, L’Auberge du Prieuré, 07/08 - Amboise Château du Clos-Lucé: Le Parc, Part II Things to Do (15)

“While I thought that I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die.” — Leonardo da Vinci... more travel advice

Château du Clos-Lucé, Le Parc, July 2008 - Amboise Château du Clos-Lucé: Le Parc, Part I Things to Do (15)

“You can have no dominion greater or less than that over yourself.” — Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) In addition to the... more travel advice

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