Tuesday for Towns and Villages – Vendôme, the Little Venice on the Loir.

Reflections on the Loir... a gentle riverside stroll in a town full of medieval charm.

Today's town: Vendôme (Loir-et-Cher), often called the 'Little Venice' of the Loire Valley thanks to the multiple arms of the Loir River criss-crossing the historic center.

From this riverbank perspective, the view highlights the town's medieval heritage: the 12th-century tower and remnants of the old château walls perched on the hillside, overlooking stone houses with slate roofs, chimneys, and autumnal foliage. The Loir flows calmly below, bordered by quays, flower beds bursting with chrysanthemums and other blooms, and the quiet townscape—perfect for a peaceful walk or photo stop.

Vendôme is a classified 'Ville d'Art et d'Histoire' with a rich past (from Gallic origins to counts of Vendôme, including César de Vendôme son of Henri IV). Key sights nearby include the Flamboyant Gothic Abbaye de la Trinité (with its stunning façade and cloister museum), the ruined Château de Vendôme (panoramic terrace views), Place Saint-Martin (with its carillon tower), and the Rochambeau district's half-timbered houses.

Why linger in Vendôme?

• Riverside paths along the Loir for calm walks or cycling.
• Covered market halls (15th century) for local produce.
• Easy day trip base: 40 min TGV from Paris, close to Lavardin (one of France's "Most Beautiful Villages") or the Loir Valley vineyards.

A quiet Tuesday gem: history mirrored in the water, flowers framing the stone—pure Touraine serenity. What's your favorite riverside town in the Loire?

“Every town and village in the Loire Valley tells its story gently — in rooftops, stonework and narrow streets.”

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Part of the “Towns & Villages of the Loire” Series

Each Tuesday, we visit one of the Loire Valley's towns or villages of the Loire Valley — their streets, stories, and quiet beauty.

Browse the full series

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