In the heart of the Loire Valley, Chinon has a fascinating medieval heritage and wine-growing landscape. From the royal fortress that dominates the town to the picturesque narrow streets and wine cellars, there's something to discover at every stop. Easy to get to, with plenty of parking, the town is an ideal place to combine culture, nature and gastronomy on a self-guided tour.

The town has two traditional markets every week, on Thursday and Sunday mornings, showcasing the local produce.

Here you can discover the famous Touraine rillons and rillettes, Chinon wines and the famous Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine AOC goat's cheese.

Chinonese cuisine also features river fish, often enhanced by a glass of Cabernet Franc, the region's emblematic grape variety.

Other gourmet specialities not to be missed include:
- la fouée
- small wafer cooked over a wood fire and filled with rillettes or fromage frais
- and the winegrower's tart, the emblematic sweet speciality of the Ayrolle house.

Medieval Market (1ᵉʳ Saturday in August)
Free admission to the lively medieval streets of Chinon, with stalls and costumed walks.

Nocturne Gourmande (September)
An evening market combining crafts and delicacies in a friendly atmosphere.

Super U supermarket 800 metres away
The shops in the town centre are 2.5 km away.

Winegrowers in the City" festival (mid-April)
Print and micro-publishing festival (end of April to end of May)
Chinon en fanfares" festival (third weekend in May)
Chinon en jazz" festival (first weekend in June)
Medieval festivals at the Fortress - July and August
Nuits des Lumières (mid-August)
BAR - Blues d'Automne en Rabelaisie" festival (mid-September)

Canoeing and kayaking on the Vienne river
Hire a canoe or kayak for an adventure on the Vienne and let yourself be carried along by the water while admiring the superb scenery.

Walks around Chinon
Put on your walking shoes and explore the footpaths surrounding the town for a break from nature and authentic views.

The Loire by bike
Discover Chinon in a different way by following the Loire à Vélo itinerary, a renowned cycle route offering magnificent views of the river and its banks.

Royal fortress of Chinon
Immerse yourself in the Middle Ages with a visit to this emblematic fortress, perched high above the Vienne river and witness to the great hours of French history.

Salle du Jeu de Paume
A 16th-century monument, this historic hall in the heart of Chinon reveals the elegance of period architecture.

Town of Art and History
With its picturesque narrow streets, half-timbered houses and many cultural events, Chinon has a charming heritage.