Blois has plenty to see and do. It also makes a good base for exploring other towns and villages in the Loire Valley. The châteaux of Chambord and Cheverny are particularly close to Blois.

In the town, the Château Royal de Blois is your first goal. This royal residence was home to seven French kings and ten queens and is a fascinating place to visit. The château also offers a Sound and Light Show in the summer.

Across from the château is the Jardin des Simples et des Fleurs Royales, which provides a wonderful view of the Façade des Loges (François I wing)

Just across the square from the château is the Maison de la Magie, a Museum of Magic and Illusion that honors famous classical magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin.

The Tourist Office in Blois sells an inexpensive and helpful guide to walking tours in the city. Four different walks allow you to explore the château and surrounding areas; the cathedral and the Puits Châtel area with its Renaissance houses (including the Maison des Acrobates) and the Archbishop's gardens; the area of Old Blois near the Saint-Nicholas Church; and the left bank of the Loire.

Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets in Old Blois is a great way to pass an afternoon. Even with a map it's pretty easy to get lost, but you can't go too far astray and meanwhile you'll see some great things you might have missed. There are a number of half-timbered houses in the old town, as well as a variety of cafés and restaurants when you need a break.

Lovely views of the Loire and surrounding area are available from the château and the Jardins de l'Évêché (Archbishop's gardens).

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