« Noël au Pays des Châteaux » 2025 : the unmissable magical event for families in Touraine
Every winter, the Loire Valley transforms into a vast, magical playground where the châteaux become the backdrop for a fairytale. With the “Christmas in the Land of Châteaux” event, returning from November 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026, families are invited to enjoy a unique experience blending heritage discovery, Christmas magic, and unforgettable moments together.
Six iconic châteaux—Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau, Chenonceau, Chinon, Loches, and Villandry—open their doors in a festive spirit, offering children and parents alike an enchanting journey where every room, every garden, and every decoration tells a story.
A family adventure through six wonderful worlds
The event’s success lies in its ability to inspire wonder at any age. No two castles are alike: each site offers its own creative world, designed to captivate children while offering adults a different perspective on heritage.
Le Château d’Amboise : Christmas in the Renaissance
In Amboise, families are immersed in the refined atmosphere of royal celebrations. Majestic fir trees, recreated banquets, sparkling decorations… Children love observing the details of the costumes, the hidden symbols, and the little figures scattered throughout the rooms. Those with a thirst for knowledge can also pay homage to the genius Leonardo da Vinci in his final resting place, making the visit both fun and enriching.
Azay-le-Rideau : the mirror château with a thousand lights
With its enchanting reflection in the moat, Azay-le-Rideau seems straight out of a storybook. At Christmas, the castle’s interior is transformed into a magical world where the theme of winter nature comes to life. Soft colors, giant floral arrangements, and plays of light soothe children and stimulate their imaginations.
Chenonceau : the kingdom of flowers and fairy tales
Nicknamed the “Ladies’ Castle,” Chenonceau is probably a favorite with families. The spectacular floral arrangements, the gigantic decorations inspired by fairy tales, the richly decorated fir trees… everything combines to create a truly enchanting experience. Children love walking through the gallery over the river, as if they were crossing a magical bridge.
Chinon : A medieval Christmas fit for knights
Perched above the Vienne River, the Chinon fortress often features displays based on medieval legends and symbols. Children can imagine themselves as knights or princesses during their visit. The vaulted rooms lend themselves perfectly to lighting effects, and the historical dimension is easily accessible thanks to interactive objects and immersive sets.
La Cité royale de Loches :the mysterious spirit of Christmas
Loches offers a more intimate experience, ideal for families who enjoy immersing themselves in the atmosphere of the place. The royal residence recounts ancient tales, while the keep impresses visitors of all ages. Christmas decorations are subtly placed throughout, creating a discreet treasure hunt that children adore.
Villandry : when nature and magic are in harmony
While the gardens of Villandry are famous in summer, they take on a special charm at Christmas. Inside the château, nature literally enters through the doors: branches, pine cones, garlands of greenery, handcrafted creations… It’s a perfect setting for families who appreciate the gentleness of traditional holidays.
An event designed for families: wonder, education and sharing
One of the great strengths of “Christmas in the Land of Castles” is its accessibility to all ages. Many of the trails are designed so that children don’t just watch: they explore, guess, observe, and interact.
Parents particularly appreciate:
the immersive sets that capture the attention of younger children,
the simplified yet fascinating historical anecdotes,
the calm and safe atmosphere,
the opportunity to take numerous souvenir photos in sumptuous settings,
and the cultural discovery that never sacrifices the fun aspect.
The magic happens naturally: children are captivated by the lights, the subtle music, and the stories told through the displays. Older children discover architectural or historical details hidden within the scenes, while parents enjoy a moment of peace and shared beauty.
The Multi-Castle Pass: ideal for a family getaway
The Christmas Pass, offered annually, allows you to visit several castles at discounted rates. For families, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan a long weekend or a short break in the Loire Valley.
These passes—for 3, 4, 5, or 6 castles—encourage families to create a truly memorable itinerary:
one day for the “fairytale” castles,
another for the more historical sites, and
a final day for immersive or nature-themed experiences.
Many family-friendly accommodations and restaurants are participating in the program, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the region.
Why families love Noël aux pays des châteaux ?
The 2025 edition promises to be a particularly successful event for families thanks to:
the diverse decorations,
the easy access to the castles,
the high level of safety of the indoor routes for children,
the opportunity to combine discovery, games, culture, and wonder,
and the incomparable magic of the Loire Valley’s heritage in winter.
In short, “Christmas in the Land of Castles” is a special moment where families can share what matters most: joy, wonder, and the pleasure of being together.
… and to know more, it’s HERE
Practical advice for families
🕒 Choosing the right time to visit
Mornings or late afternoons: these are the least crowded times, ideal for young children.
Weekdays: if possible, avoid weekends in December when it can get very busy.
Post-Christmas period: from December 26 to January 4, the atmosphere remains magical and the crowds decrease.
🚗 Planning your trip
Opt for visiting castles close to each other on the same day (e.g., Amboise – Chenonceau – Azay).
Some parking lots are a bit far away: bring a baby carrier or an all-terrain stroller.
🧥 Equipping children properly
The interiors are heated, but the gardens and grounds can be cold. Remember: gloves, a hat, a scarf, clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
Bring a small snack: the magic of Christmas works up an appetite!
🧸 Keeping Little Ones Engaged
Give them a photo mission: find the most beautiful fir trees, hidden characters, decorative animals…
For 6-12 year olds: many castles offer observation or discovery games, often free of charge.
Don’t hesitate to tell your own story during the visit: it makes the experience even more engaging.
🍽️ Planning Meal Breaks
The larger nearby towns (Amboise, Tours, Chinon, Loches) offer numerous family-friendly restaurants.
In some castles, a shop-café area provides a sheltered spot for a delicious break.
🎫 Optimizing Your Budget
The multi-castle pass is ideal for families: it allows you to save money and spread your visits over several days. Also, consider discounts for children, students, or large families (depending on the castle).