Amboise is one of those towns where history, art, and scenery blend seamlessly along the Loire River. Its compact size makes it perfect for exploring with a variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or simply looking for a memorable adventure. We’re especially fond of the Amboise: Caves Ambacia Visit and Wine Tasting for its sensory journey through 15th-century troglodyte caves and wine tastings paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. If soaring above the vineyards sounds more your speed, the Hot-Air Balloon Sunset Ride offers a breathtaking view of the Loire Valley castles at sunset. And for a deep dive into Leonardo da Vinci’s world, the Private Guided Tour of Clos Lucé is a highlight that blends art, science, and history in one fascinating visit.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the eight best tours in Amboise, ranging from wine tastings and hot-air balloon flights to private castle visits and e-bike adventures. Each offers a distinctly different way to experience this charming town and its surroundings.
1. Amboise: Caves Ambacia Visit and Wine Tasting
At number 1, the Amboise: Caves Ambacia Visit and Wine Tasting earns high marks for its blend of history and flavor. This 1.5-hour tour takes you into 15th-century troglodyte caves, carved from limestone—an underground world that has been used for wine storage since 1463. Your guide, a sommelier, will walk you through a collection of wines, including tastings of six varieties paired with cheese and charcuterie, creating an immersive experience that engages all five senses. Visitors rave about the “sensory tour” and the opportunity to explore wine’s deep roots in the Loire Valley. The vintage collection is especially appealing for those interested in both the history of winemaking and discovering excellent wines. The tour’s intimate setting and expert guidance make it ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to learn and taste in one go.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an authentic, sensory-rich introduction to Loire wines with a touch of history, this tour hits the mark. It’s a perfect way to start your visit or unwind after a day of sightseeing.
2. Amboise Hot-Air Balloon Sunset Ride over the Loire Valley
Number 2 on our list is the unforgettable Amboise Hot-Air Balloon Sunset Ride. This three-hour experience begins with hotel pickup, followed by a gentle ascent in a hot air balloon that offers spectacular aerial views of the castles of Amboise, Chenonceau, and Chaumont-sur-Loire. The small-group setting ensures your flight is personal and relaxed, with a memorable hour floating over vineyards, forests, and historic sites. The sunset timing provides ideal lighting to capture stunning photos and enjoy the peaceful silence of the sky—an experience that stays with travelers long after landing. Price-wise, at $298 per person, it’s an investment in a rare perspective of the Loire Valley.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of personalized service, breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of floating high above the landscape. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind early mornings or late evenings and want a story worth telling for years.
Bottom line: If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view and enjoy gentle adventure, this hot-air balloon ride offers unmatched scenery and an intimate connection with the Loire countryside.
3. Amboise: Private Guided Tour of the Castle with Entry Ticket
At number 3, the Private Guided Tour of Château d’Amboise offers a personalized deep dive into this royal residence. For about $247, your licensed guide will escort you through the castle’s royal apartments, gardens, and the iconic Chapel of Saint-Hubert where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. The tour lasts two hours and includes an entry ticket, so you skip the lines and get a tailored experience. The guide’s commentary brings the site’s history alive, revealing stories about the kings who made it their home and the Renaissance artists who once wandered its halls.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to explore with a knowledgeable guide who provides context and humor, making history accessible and engaging. The castle’s panoramic views of the Loire are spectacular, and the private setting means you can ask questions and focus on your specific interests.
Bottom line: For those wanting a comprehensive and personalized look at the castle’s artistic and regal significance, this private tour offers exceptional value.
4. Amboise Private Walking Tour
Number 4, the Amboise Private Walking Tour is perfect for travelers craving an intimate stroll through the town’s streets. Costing around $322 for up to 15 people, this 1.5-hour guided walk explores Amboise’s medieval roots, Renaissance architecture, and its connection to Leonardo da Vinci. The guide shares stories about Viking influences, the city’s strategic importance, and da Vinci’s final years in Amboise. You’ll also learn about the Conspiracy of Amboise, a plot involving Catholic and Protestant factions, giving you insight into France’s turbulent past.
What makes this tour appealing is its flexibility and focus on local stories, perfect for those who prefer walking to large museums or castles. The guide’s engaging style helps bring Amboise’s layered history to life, and the walk’s length is just right for a relaxed overview without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a tailored, historical exploration of Amboise’s streets, especially those interested in its medieval and Renaissance stories.
5. Amboise: Highlights Private E-Bike Tour w/ Clos Lucé Ticket
Number 5, the Highlights Private E-Bike Tour with Clos Lucé combines active exploration with cultural highlights. For $374, you’ll enjoy a guided day riding an e-bike or e-scooter around Amboise’s key sites, including the Château du Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s final home, and the Château de Chenonceau. The tour also features a wine tasting and a relaxing picnic on the Loire’s banks, making it a full-day adventure.
The e-bike allows you to cover more ground comfortably while soaking in views of vineyards and historic towns. This tour is suited for active travelers who want variety—visiting castles, tasting wine, and enjoying a scenic picnic—all in one day. The inclusion of a hotel transfer and private guide enhances the experience, ensuring a smooth day of exploring.
Bottom line: For those wanting a comprehensive, active day with cultural and culinary highlights, this e-bike tour offers excellent value and flexibility.
6. Clos Lucé: Da Vinci’s Castle Private Guided Tour with Ticket
Number 6, the Clos Lucé Private Guided Tour is a must for Leonardo da Vinci fans. For $252, you get a two-hour private exploration of his last residence, including the lush gardens and his inventions. Your guide will narrate stories of Da Vinci’s life and work, highlighting his influence on the region. The tour provides an intimate look at the art, science, and engineering that defined his genius, with special attention to his time in France.
What sets this experience apart is the personalized attention and focus on Da Vinci’s legacy, making it ideal for art lovers and those interested in science and innovation. The gardens and exhibits are both inspiring and educational, with plenty of time to ask questions and enjoy the surroundings.
Bottom line: If you want an in-depth, private look at Da Vinci’s last home, this guided tour offers a compelling and enriching experience.
7. Guided tour of the Château du Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci
This tour, also focused on Da Vinci, offers a guided walk through his final residence and park. It emphasizes Da Vinci’s inventions and artworks, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see his ideas come to life. The tour includes audio guides for clarity, and walking through the Clos Lucé park reveals replicas of his inventions, offering a hands-on experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for visitors who want a dynamic, engaging take on Da Vinci’s last years, with a focus on his creative genius.
8. Guided tour of the royal château of Amboise
Number 8, the Guided Tour of the Château Royal d’Amboise offers a concise, fun overview of one of France’s most celebrated castles. The 1.5-hour tour covers the castle’s role in French history, including its ties to kings and queens, with humorous anecdotes along the way. With audio guides and panoramic views of the Loire, this tour makes history accessible without overwhelming.
It’s a good choice for visitors who want to see the castle but prefer a guided narrative to wandering without context. The emphasis on royal genealogy and amusing stories makes it especially engaging for families and casual visitors.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a lively, informative visit to the royal castle, this tour offers a perfect balance of history and fun.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting your ideal Amboise tour, consider your interests and schedule. If wine tasting and underground caves appeal to your senses, the Caves Ambacia offers a unique experience. For breathtaking views and adventure, the hot-air balloon is ideal, especially if you’re comfortable with early starts. History and architecture buffs will love the private castle tours, while active visitors can explore on e-bikes. Art lovers should prioritize the Da Vinci experiences for a deeper understanding of his life.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like balloon rides and private castle tours, and consider the time of year—spring and fall offer the best weather without the crowds.
Final Thoughts
Amboise offers a wide range of memorable experiences tailored to different interests and activity levels. For a taste of local wine culture, the caves and tastings are hard to beat. For stunning vistas and a touch of adventure, the hot-air balloon ride is unforgettable. Art and history fans will find the private castle and Da Vinci tours especially rewarding.
No matter your choice, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these top-rated experiences. Whether you’re after a relaxing cultural stroll or an exhilarating aerial adventure, Amboise’s tours promise to enrich your visit with stories, sights, and flavors that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
Enjoy your trip to Amboise, and don’t forget to pick the experience that sparks your curiosity most. Happy exploring!
