Just 18 kilometers southwest of Tours, the small down of Villandry is dominated by the Château de Villandry and its splendid gardens. That's really why you're there and where you want to spend your time.

The château is right in the village, and the nearby St-Étienne Church is just beyond the grounds.

If you drive in from Tours, don't worry if all the parking just across from the château seems to be full. Just a bit farther on, behind the Tourist Office, is a large parking lot. The Tourist Office can provide information about the château and other local events. The day we visited, there was a large "Vide Grenier" (attic emptier--a big rummage sale) nearby.

While you're in the area, you might consider visiting the nearby châteaux of Ussé, Azay-le-Rideau, or Langeais. A bit farther south is the fascinating town and château of Chinon.

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Château de Villandry Château d'Ussé Château d'Azay-le-Rideau Château de Chinon Loire Valley Châteaux How to Visit Châteaux Loire Valley Transportation