The city of Blois, located on the banks of the Loire River, is full of character and charm. Its elegant architecture, royal history, and pedestrianised streets make it an ideal place to spend a relaxed and rewarding weekend. 

Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Blois:

Day 1

MORNING 

No trip to France is complete without a visit to the local market, and Blois is no exception. Every Saturday from 8.45am to 12.45 pm, Place Louis XII comes alive with farmers selling fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and charcuterie. Keep an eye out for regional specialties like tarte Tatin, which originated in nearby Lamotte-Beuvron. 

One of the best ways to explore Blois is by following the “bronze nail” walking tours, four self-guided routes marked by bronze nails in the pavement. You can pick up a map at the Office de Tourisme or download one (along with an app) at www.bloischambord.com. Follow the Parcours La Fleur de Lys, a gentle route through the cathedral district. It will lead you to the Escalier Denis-Papin, one of Blois’ most iconic sights. The staircase features an ever-changing art installation; in 2025, it’s decorated with lemon trees in honour of Manet’s Le Citron, currently on display at the Château Royal de Blois. The Jardins de l’Évêché offers beautifully kept gardens and panoramic views of the Loire. Just behind the gardens stands the Cathédrale Saint-Louis, rebuilt in Gothic style after nearly being destroyed by a hurricane in 1678.

AFTERNOON 

In the afternoon, cross the Pont Jacques-Gabriel to enjoy the riverside views and then Port de la Creusille for a boat ride on a traditional gabarre. Gabarre boat rides run at 2.30 pm (April to September, Tuesday to Sunday; daily in July and August) and this scenic cruise includes engaging commentary on Blois’ architecture and the wildlife of the Loire. Booking is recommended.

If time allows, make a stop at the Natural History Museum (6 Rue des Jacobins) showcasing the region’s unique biodiversity, from forests and plains to ponds and rivers. You won’t need more than an hour, but it’s worth a visit.

EVENING 

Wrap up your day by enjoying an aperitif or cocktail at quirky Ben’s Blues Bar (41 Rue Saint-Lubin) before heading for your evening meal at Le Castelet (40 Rue Saint-Lubin, closed Wednesday and Sunday). This fantastic restaurant offers the very best of home cooked French food with good vegetarian options.

Day Two

MORNING 

Start your day in typical French style, with a coffee and pâtisserie at O Château (1 Rue de la Voûte du Château). Begin your sightseeing with the Maison de la Magie (Place du Château), a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to magic, mystery, and the life of French magician Robert-Houdin. It closes for lunch at 12.30pm, so be sure to arrive early to catch the live magic show at 11.15am. Don’t miss the six-headed mechanical dragon, it’s a real highlight.

AFTERNOON 

After lunch head to the Royal Château de Blois, a masterpiece of French architecture, with elements from Renaissance, Gothic, Medieval and Classic architectural styles. It also served as a royal residence during the French Renaissance. It has an intriguing past, as the place where Catherine de Medici spent her final years and Marie de Medici was imprisoned by her son, Louis XIII.

For something a little different, the Fondation du Doute (14 Rue de la Paix) is an unconventional contemporary museum founded by the artist Ben. Inspired by the Fluxus movement of the 1960s, it may not be to everyone’s taste, but will definitely get you thinking. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6.30pm. 

EVENING 

Restaurant Au Coin D’Table offers a warm and friendly welcome and is a delicious way to wrap up a weekend well spent. The menu changes regularly based on seasonal ingredients. It’s popular so make sure to book ahead. (9 Rue Henri Drussy) Closed on Wednesdays.

And finally, make your way back to the Château for Son et Lumiere to end your weekend in sparkling style. A spectacular display of music, light projections and special effects which brings to life hundreds of years of royal heritage. (April and September, 10 pm, May to August 10.30pm, October & November 7.15pm)

*It is possible to purchase a combined ticket for the activities on Day 2. See the ticket office at the Château or www.Châteaudeblois.fr for full details.

Thanks to its small-town feel, Blois has a more personal atmosphere than most French cities. Despite its modest size, its historic significance and striking architecture make it a unique and worthwhile destination, and a superb choice for a weekend that is both relaxing and steeped in French history and culture.