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Blois
Destinations › Europe › France › Centre-Val de Loire

Blois

Population: 47.000 Since: Founded around 500 BC Price: Mid-range

Introduction

Blois offers a blend of history and charm, with its medieval streets and impressive architecture. The Loire River adds a scenic backdrop, making it a pleasant place to explore on foot.

Visitors can wander through the town's rich history, from the royal château to the quaint shops lining the streets. The atmosphere is relaxed, inviting travelers to take their time and soak in the local culture.

Sightseeing

Château Royal de Blois: a historic castle once home to French royalty
Blois Cathedral: a striking example of Gothic architecture
Blois-Vienne Church: notable for its unique design
The Robert-Houdin House of Magic: a museum dedicated to magic and illusion
Saint Saturnin's Churchyard: a former cemetery turned lapidary museum
Forêt Domaniale de Russy: a forest area perfect for nature walks

"History and charm by the Loire"Blois

Things to do

Enjoy the view from Place de Château: a great spot for photos
Explore the local markets: find fresh produce and regional specialties
Take a river cruise on the Loire: see the city from a different perspective
Visit the local art galleries: discover works by regional artists

Top attractions

Local food and drinks - Blois

Local food and drinks

Tarte Tatin: a delicious upside-down caramelized apple tart
Rillons: pork delicacies seasoned with herbs
Vins de Loire: local wines to sample at various bistros
La Maison de la Magie: offers snacks and drinks with a magical theme
Le Café de la Loire: a cozy spot for coffee and pastries
Local traditions - Blois

Local traditions

Fête de la Saint-Vincent: a wine festival celebrating local vineyards
Les Jardins de la Loire: an annual garden festival showcasing local horticulture
Christmas Market: a festive event with local crafts and food
Fête de la Musique: a celebration of music with performances throughout the city

History

Blois has a rich history dating back to the Roman era, when it was a significant settlement. The town became prominent in the Middle Ages, serving as a residence for French kings and a center for political power.

The Château Royal de Blois played a crucial role in French history, hosting notable figures like Louis XII and Catherine de Medici. Over the centuries, the city has evolved, maintaining its historical significance while adapting to modern times.

Things to know

Be cautious of tourist traps near the château, where prices can be inflated
Local buses are reliable but may have limited schedules on weekends
Safety is generally good, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas
Timing your visit during weekdays can help avoid large crowds

Do's and don'ts

Visit the château early in the day for fewer crowds
Try local specialties at small bistros
Take a leisurely walk along the Loire River
Engage with local artisans at markets
Don't rush through the historical sites
Don't ignore the smaller streets, they often have unique shops
Don't rely solely on public transport, consider walking
Don't miss the sunset views from the riverbanks

Good to know

Accessibility: Most areas are walkable, but some streets are steep.
Price level: mid-range

Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons