6 activities to do with children in Amboise
6 activities to do with children in Amboise
The long-awaited summer holidays are finally here! Pencil cases and schoolbags have been put away to make room for flip-flops and shorts—and summer workbooks for the less lucky ones. In Amboise Val de Loire, holidays go hand in hand with discovery. Situated along the banks of the Loire, this royal town is packed with activities that are both educational and entertaining, fun and enriching. The Tourist Office has selected six activities to enjoy with children in Amboise.
Mini-Chateaux Park
Visiting a château is great. Discovering 41 Loire Valley châteaux in a single visit is even better! At Parc Mini-Châteaux, you can explore the Loire Valley’s finest treasures in giant strides. Once you cross the drawbridge, you are instantly transformed into Gulliver, strolling among scale models of the most magnificent Loire châteaux. Each setting is meticulously crafted, featuring tiny figures arranged within the monuments and their recreated (miniature) gardens. Historical anecdotes and games for children punctuate the route, blending culture with fun.
The Chanteloup Pagoda
The Chanteloup Pagoda reveals itself at the end of a long, tree-shaded avenue. This intriguing Asian-style tower is the only remaining trace of the former estate of the Duke of Choiseul, a minister under Louis XV. You can explore the Pagoda both from within its park and from the very top, 40 meters up. Small boats allow you to cruise the ornamental pond and watch impressive koi carp swimming near the surface. Be sure to try your hand at the dozen or so traditional wooden games and put your dexterity to the test—fits of laughter guaranteed!
The Confectionery Conservatory
Just a stone’s throw from the Amboise train station, Nicolas Viollet—a confectioner carrying on a family tradition—has set up his copper kettles. In their sweet-scented workshop-museum, he and his team craft candies, lollipops, pralines, and nougat using antique machinery. Watching one of their demonstrations is a real spectacle, ranging from the spreading of molten sugar to its shaping into whimsical forms. Don’t forget to leave with your own personalized lollipop and to browse the colorful, mouth-watering displays in their charming shop.
Theatrical tour of Clos Lucé with Mathurine
Do you know Mathurine? Dressed in her red gown and white apron, she is Leonardo da Vinci’s one and only cook. At the Château du Clos Lucé, she guides you from the kitchen garden to the science park, revealing the little secrets of this great genius. How did he live? What did he eat? What was he working on? These historical anecdotes offer a glimpse into the daily life of the Renaissance’s greatest artist. Tours are available Monday through Saturday during school holidays [by reservation, tour in French only].
The Touraine Aquarium
The tone is set the moment you step inside. You embark on a journey across the planet’s oceans, seas, and rivers, getting up close to the wildlife. More than 360 species across 80 tanks await you, representing three distinct ecosystems. Impressive Loire catfish lurk in the depths, while sharks and clownfish roam tropical waters. Be sure to check the schedule before your visit so you can take part in “Lab” workshops and share a special moment with the Aquarium de Touraine’s animal keepers.
Amboise little train
After so much exploring and wandering, it is time to rest your legs! And what better way to do so than by hopping aboard the Amboise little train—a service running daily to the town’s finest monuments? Starting from the foot of the Royal Château, it takes you from squares to narrow streets, revealing magical views of the royal city. The narrated tour then winds along the banks of the Loire, pausing for a photo at a spectacular viewpoint. It is a leisurely tour, perfect for ensuring you don’t miss any of Amboise’s charms.
In Amboise Val de Loire, heritage isn’t something you discover in a dusty old book—it’s something you experience firsthand! Whether historical, natural, or gastronomic, a unique experience awaits behind the doors of every château, museum, and artisan’s workshop. It is the perfect combination for learning while having fun, blending a holiday with an educational experience.
10 activities = 1 single Pass !
With the Amboise City Pass, enjoy a special rate to visit Amboise’s 10 must-see attractions. You also benefit from discounts at over 70 shops and restaurants in Amboise.
Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the Amboise City Pass offers savings of up to 40% on admission fees!
