Amboise awnings

The sun came out enough to brighten up these awnings along the rue Nationale in Amboise. The central street in town is for pedestrians only and is lined with inviting shops, cafés, and eateries. It's not all tourist-oriented, especially as you get farther from the castle.

Colorful storefronts in Amboise.

Amboise's population is about 12,500, so there are a good many people in town to support local commerce. The tourists do their share, of course, as Amboise and its château overlooking the Loire River draw large crowds. Not to mention the huge Sunday market along the river which pulls in shoppers from all over the region.