Chinon Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful town of Chinon in Central France with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and things to do in Chinon.


Introduction to Chinon

Chinon is a charming town located in the Center-Val de Loire region of France. The town is steeped in history, as it was once a medieval fortress and the site of many battles. Today, tourists from all over the world flock to Chinon to explore the town’s rich history and enjoy its beautiful natural scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Chinon

If you’re planning a trip to Chinon, here are the top places you should visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chateau de Chinon: This 12th-century fortress is the most famous landmark in Chinon. Walk around the castle’s ramparts and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding valley. You can also visit the museum located inside that showcases the town’s history, from prehistoric times to modern-day.
  • Musee d’Art et d’Histoire de Chinon: This museum is dedicated to local history and arts. Here, you will find an impressive collection of artifacts and artworks from the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Chinon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fontevraud Abbey: Located just a short drive from Chinon, the Fontevraud Abbey is an ancient monastery built in the 12th century. Today, the abbey is open to the public and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Vieux Port: This historic port is located on the banks of the Vienne River. Take a stroll along the banks of the river and admire the striking views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chinon

Chinon is a great destination for hiking enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Les Caves Painctes Hike: A beautiful, easy hike that will take you past vineyards, caves, and historical sites.
  • Loire à Velo Trail: This 800-kilometer long trail that winds through the Loire Valley, including Chinon. Rent a bike and enjoy the stunning scenery as you pedal along this famous route.

Best Things to Do in Chinon: Activities and Tours

Here are some things to do in Chinon to make your trip memorable:

  • Wine Tasting: Chinon is famous for its delicous wines, including the red wine made with the Cabernet Franc grape. Take a tour of the local vineyards to learn more about the wine-making process and enjoy some tastings.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon tour over the Loire Valley for a stunning perspective of the beautiful French countryside.
  • Boat Tours: Take a boat ride along the Vienne River to explore the town and see the sights from a different angle.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chinon

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Chinon:

Day 1: Explore the Chateau de Chinon and its museums.

Day 2: Take a hike along the Les Caves Painctes trail.

Day 3: Visit the Fontevraud Abbey.

Day 4: Rent a bike and follow the Loire à Velo trail.

Day 5: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley.

Day 6: Visit the Musee d’Art et d’Histoire de Chinon.

Day 7: Spend the day relaxing in the town’s cafes and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Chinon

Chinon is a food lover’s paradise. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rillons: Slow-cooked pork belly, a must-try pork delicacy of the region.
  • Gache: Yeast bread glazed in sugar with a hint of orange blossom water.

Local Beverages

  • Chinon Wine: Famous for its red wine, Chinon offers delicious varietals made from the Cabernet Franc grape.
  • Calvados: A brandy made from apples that is popular in the region.

Where to Stay in Chinon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chinon offers a variety of accommodations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, you will find something that suits your needs. Here are some of the popular options:

  • Hotel Diderot Chinon: A cozy, stylish hotel located in the heart of Chinon’s old town.
  • Gite les Tournesols: A self-catering guesthouse with beautiful views of the Loire Valley.
  • Auberge Saint-Jacques: A charming, family-run inn located just outside the town center.

What to Buy in Chinon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a special souvenir to bring back home? Here are some of the local products that you should consider buying:

  • Chinon Wine: A bottle of the famous Chinon wine makes an excellent gift.
  • Saffron: The region of Chinon is home to many saffron farms. Purchase high-quality saffron and other saffron-infused products as a unique souvenir.
  • Pottery: The town is well-known for its pottery. Visit one of the local workshops and buy some hand-crafted ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Chinon

Here are some unique customs and traditions of Chinon:

  • Joan of Arc: Joan of Arc visited Chinon and met with the French king at the Chateau de Chinon, a significant event in French history.
  • Feast of Saint Vincent: A wine-centric festival that takes place every January in Chinon.

Best Time to Visit Chinon

The best time to visit Chinon is during the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are much smaller. Visiting during the summer months (June to August) can be a good option too, but expect more tourists and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chinon

Do:

  • Try the local wines and cuisine.
  • Visit local museums and historic sites.

Don’t:

  • Dress inappropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Litter in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chinon

Chinon is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it’s always essential to take precautions and keep an eye on your belongings when traveling.

Health in Chinon

Make sure you have travel insurance before visiting Chinon. Although there are medical facilities available in the town, comprehensive travel insurance is always recommended.

Getting to Chinon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chinon

The closest airports to Chinon are Tours Loire Valley Airport, located about 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car, and Poitiers–Biard Airport, located about 1 hour and 20 minutes away.

Bus Stations Near Chinon

The Chinon train station is located in the town center, and there are several bus routes that run through town, connecting it to other towns in the region.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from Paris, you can take a high-speed train to Tours or Angers and then take a regional train to Chinon.

How to Get Around in Chinon

Chinon is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot. However, if you want to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a bike or a car is highly recommended.

Where to Go Next from Chinon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tours

Located just an hour away from Chinon, Tours is an excellent destination for history buffs and foodies alike. The city is famous for its magnificent chateaux, historic sites, and delicious cuisines.

Orleans

Located about two hours away from Chinon, Orleans is a charming town known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Must-sees include the famous Orleans Cathedral and the Joan of Arc statue.

Conclusion

Chinon is a charming and historic town that offers a wealth of activities, sights, and natural beauty. From exploring the Chateau de Chinon to hiking through the scenic countryside, there is something for everyone in this beautiful town. Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or plan to spend a week exploring the region, you’re sure to fall in love with Chinon’s beauty and tranquility.

View of the Château View of the Château