Day 1:

Transfer from Paris to Tours by TGV, the high speed train. Upon arrival, visit the former palace of the archbishops houses, housing such famous artists as; Degas, Rubens, Rembrandt, Delacroix, and the American sculptor, Calder. Lunch in the old quarter of Tours. Afternoon visit to Villandry gardens to see the elegance of the Renaissance period. Continue to La Riche, visit Saint-Cosme prieure, residence of the poet "Pierre de Ronsard." Dinner at the restaurant "la Cave." Accommodation in Amboise.

Day 2:

Morning visit of the "Clos Luce Manor," the house of Leonardo da Vinci to see several of his fabulous inventions. Next it's to the park of "minichateaux", which is a gathering in miniature of all the castles of the Loire valley. After lunch continue to Chenonceaux Castle, jewel of the French Renaissance and residence of the six ladies. Late afternoon show at the "Eagles Donjon." Dinner and accommodation in Blois.

Day 3:

Sight-seeing of Blois with a stop in front of the castle constructed of four different periods of French architecture. After lunch there is an afternoon excursion to the castle of Cheverny which served as a model for Herge' in the books of Tintin. There's a possibility of riding in the largest balloon of the world. Return to Blois for dinner.

Day 4:

Excursion to Chambord to visit the castle of Francois the 1st., the largest palace of the Renaissance period. Continue to "Romorantin-Lanthenay" for a gastronomic lunch. Later tour the museum of Sologne. Return to your hotel for dinner.

Day 5:

Drive to the castle of "Chaumont sur Loire," dominating the Loire Valley and the property of Catherine de Medicis. Visit of the international Gardens Festival which was created by landscape architects from the world over. In the afternoon enjoy lunch before a return to the train station