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In 1489, Charles VIII, born and raised in Amboise, decided to transform the old castle into a real sumptuous palace.
Since then, the place has been the scene of events, conspiracies, destruction. What remains today is only a small part of the splendid building of the past.
Despite this, the Royal Castle of Amboise is a must see in the Loire.
First of all, because it allows us to know the political and artistic influence in Renaissance Europe; daily life and everything that happened at court. Inside, you will see splendid Gothic and Renaissance rooms and furniture. Belle, the Council Room and the Guard Room.
But it is after having followed the long access ramp that leads to the terrace, that the beauty of the place is appreciated even more. Where once the great royal festivals took place, today you will enjoy an absolutely magnificent view over the whole Valley and the center of Amboise. Really wonderful.
Do not miss the Chapelle de St. Hubert, a real Gothic jewel in which, among other things, is the tomb of Leonardo Da Vinci.
PRACTICAL INFO
HOW TO GET
The Royal Castle of Amboise is located in the center, perfectly reachable on foot.
The Gare d’Amboise train station is just over a kilometer away. You will have no difficulty in getting there by walking. Baggage permitting.
OPENING HOURS OF THE ROYAL CASTLE OF AMBOISE
The Castle is open every day of the year, except 01/01 and 25/12, at the following times:
- January, from 10:00 to 12:30 and from 14 to 16:30
- February, from 09:00 to 17:00
- March, from 09:00 to 17:30
- April, May, June, from 09:00 to 18:30
- July and August, from 09:00 to 19:00.
- September and October, from 09:00 to 17:00.
- November, December, from 10:00 to 12:30 and from 14 to 16:30
TICKETS
The ticket for adults, aged 18 and over, costs €13.50 per person. Students with a valid document certifying their status pay the fee of 11.60€. Reduced rate, equal to €9.20, for children between the ages of 7 and 18.
Free admission for children under 7 years old.
ACCESSIBILITY
For many years great efforts have been made to allow the use also to disabled people. Since 2017, even people with motor disabilities can access the Royal Castle of Amboise.
Disabled people must enter from PORTE DES LIONS, RUE AUGUSTIN THIERRY. From here, you reach the parking lot near the Royal Loggia and, subsequently, the St. Hubert Chapel and the Royal Loggia.
Each disabled person must be accompanied, compulsorily, by an adult; the presence of the latter is necessary to cross some steep slopes and paths in the gardens.
Disabled people and their carers pay the reduced rate of €9.70.
WHERE TO SLEEP
In Amboise you will be able to stay in the center without having to spend a fortune. Our advice is to stay in the center area, to easily walk around, both during the day and in the evening.
Featuring free WiFi, Logis Hotel Amboise Chaptal is located in the center of Amboise, close to the Loire and the castles of Clos Lucé and Amboise. Excellent location and excellent value for money. Info and reservations from here.
Similar in quality and price, the Hotel Le Blason, located in Place Richelieu, near the Castles. Decorated in a traditional style, all rooms feature a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a desk, and an en suite bathroom with hairdryer. Rooms for less than €70 per night with breakfast included. Book your property here.
Also recommended is the splendid B&B La Petite Vigne, just 300m from the Royal Castle of Amboise. But it is above all by staying at Au Charme Rabelaisien or at Le Pavillon Des Lys, that you will really find the best. Rather high prices compared to previous proposals, but top quality.