The Loire River

About the Loire
UNESCO Heritage Sites
Explore the chateau and vineyards of the Loire River valley

Ports-of-Call on the Loire River

Here you can find a list of some of the more common river cruise ports along the Loire River as it flows through Europe.  These may be the most common, but there may be others that can be found on select river cruises.  Your River Cruise Artist can provide you with the full itinerary and all ports for any river cruise that you may be interested in, on any river cruise operator. Explore the Loire River further and learn more about it’s ports-of-call.

Angers

France

Angers is a vibrant city of around 150,000 residents located in the Loire River Valley in the west of France. Angers lies on the banks of the small Maine River, a short distance from where the Maine River joins the Loire River. Angers was the medieval center of the Plantagenet dynasty and now features an historic old town with half-timbered architecture. The Cathédrale St-Maurice, in central Place Sainte-Croix, features elaborate stained-glass rose windows and is worth a visit. One of the best ways to experience Angers is by foot with most of the main attractions and shopping areas located in a compact area.

Blois

France

Blois is a historic city located along the banks of the Loire River. Blois is the capital of the Loir-et-Cher state in central France and is centrally located for easy exploration. Don’t miss the gothic Blois Cathedral that looms over the old town center. Also visit the Château de Blois, a former French royal palace illustrating period architecture and artistic works from the 17th to the 19th centuries. On your Loire River Cruise Blois will definitely be a favorite port day.

Château D’Ussé

France

The Château d’Ussé has a storied history dating from the 11th century. This picturesque castle overlooking the Loire River with enchanting gardens is often cited to be one of the castle structures that were inspiration for aspects of the Disney castles. Although Loire River cruise ships are unable to reach this portion of the river due to water levels, this chateau is a highlight of the popular Château of the Loire Valley excursions off ship that take you up the river by land to visit this and many other spectacular Château.

Nantes

France

Nantes is a large port city located in the northwest of France where the Loire River meets the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean. It has a deep historical relevance with its trading and defensive position. Nantes is the embarkation and disembarkation point for Loire River cruises. Here you will find architectural, cultural, artistic and modern treasures to explore. You may want to visit the Château des ducs de Bretagne, or Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, today a museum of history. Or marvel at the history in the Cathédrale Saint Pierre. Whatever your pleasure – shop, dine, art, music, history, architecture – you are sure to experience it here in Nantes.

Saumur

France

Saumur is a historic French town located between the Loire and Thouet rivers. It is surrounded by vineyards which produce some of France’s finest wines. The skyline of Saumur has often been compared with that of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. In Saumur you will likely visit the Cadre Noir the École Nationale d’Équitation or National School of Horsemanship. It is known for its annual horse shows, as well as the Armored Branch and Cavalry Training School. You may also visit the national tank museum, the Musée des Blindés, where you can examine more than 800 armored vehicles from France and other countries. You will notice also the Château de Saumur atop a hill seemingly watching over the town itself.

Tours

France

In the central Loire River Valley lies Tours, yet another French town that boasts a rich history and excellent wines. Tours architectural marvels include numerous traditional half-timbered buildings in Place Plumereau, a 12th century Cathédrale St. Gatien, and Roman ruins throughout the city, including in the Jardin de St Pierre le Puellier. Enjoy a walk through the old town and visit the place where Joan of Arc had her armor made. Shopping, eating, drinking, touring – whatever your tastes Tours will have what you are looking for.

Villandry

France

Another popular chateau that is often a favorite of Loire River cruisers is the Château de Villandry. The Château de Villandry is a grand country house in the Loire River Valley and is particularly known for its expansive and intricate gardens. The chateau was originally constructed in the 14th century with numerous rebuilds since that time. Today it is a popular stop on Chateau of the Loire river cruise excursions.

Your Loire River Cruise Awaits!

Are you ready to start planning your Loire River Cruise Vacation Your Way? A River Cruise Artist at River Cruise Your Way is ready to be your vacation concierge. Contact us today at 1-800-259-7612 or use the form below and let us know when it is most convenient to call you, we will confirm via e-mail, and then reach out at the agreed upon time and date.