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What To Do in Tours, France (Guide + Map)

• Milena Yordanova
• August 20, 2024

Located just an hour away by train from Paris, Tours is often used as a base for visiting the chateaux of Loire Valley. It is one of the largest cities in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, well connected by public transport to the most famous castles in the area. Indeed, from here, you can easily reach the historic palaces of Chenonceau, Chambord, Blois and Amboise.

Once the capital of France, today Tours is a lively city boasting a beautiful historic centre with half-timbered houses and gourmet bistros. A perfect stop on your way through the Loire Valley!

What to do in Tours, France in one day

Thanks to its central location and excellent public transport connections to the nearby towns, Tours is a great base to discover the chateaux of Loire. This is one of the main cities I’d recommend you to base yourself in, especially if you’re travelling by train.

Besides being an excellent base for touring the historic chateaux, Tours itself is worth at least half a day of exploring. Take a walk along the narrow cobbled streets while admiring the half-timbered houses, the impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral and the Renaissance Hotel Gouïn.

Follow my itinerary to discover the best things to do in Tours, France for one day. You’ll also find what are the most famous chateaux to visit near the city and some restaurant recommendations.

At the end of the blog post, you can find a map of this itinerary (with all attractions and restaurants’ websites).

What to do in Tours in one day

Breakfast at l’atelier du talemelier.

• Visit Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours

Tour de l’Horloge and Tour de Charlemagne

• Have a cup of coffee at Place Plumereau
• Admire Hôtel Goüin

Lunch at Les Gens Heureux

• Visit Saint-Gatien Cathedral

Hôtel de Ville de Tours

• Admire the art at Musée des Beaux-Arts
• Take a walk in the Botanical Garden
• Visit the quirky Musée de Compagnonnage

09:00 AM – 10:00 AM Start your one day in Tours with breakfast at L’Atelier du Talemelier or Kat’s Coffee . L’Atelier du Talemelier is a great bakery which offers quality pastries and sandwiches. However, if you prefer to enjoy some delicious cakes with your coffee, head to Kat’s Coffee.

Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours

10:00 AM – 10:25 AM Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours (Basilica of St. Martin) is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, the third bishop of Tours. It was built over the traditional burial site of the saint in the 5th century AD. During the centuries, the small basilica was replaced several times with larger structures.

The basilica in a Neo-byzantine style that you see today dates from the 19th century. However, you can still see some of the remains of the older Romanesque edifice – the western clock tower and Tour de Charlemagne (Charlemagne Tower). They are located just a few steps away from the current church.

Inside the crypt, you’ll find the tomb of Saint Martin.

10:30 AM – 10:45 AM Tour de l’Horloge (Clock Tower) and Tour de Charlemagne are the only remnants of the impressive structure of the 11th-century Romanesque Basilica of Saint Martin.

Tour de Charlemagne was built on the site of the tomb of Luitgard, the last wife of Charlemagne. The king was so greatly affected by her death in 800, that he decided that Luitgard would be buried in the Basilica of Saint Martin. In the 19th century, the Charlemagne Tower was converted into a water tower.

Although, it’s not possible to visit the towers, take a few moments and admire their structure. Just imagine the grandeur of the 11th-century Romanesque basilica, of which these towers were part!

Place Plumereau

10:50 AM – 11:05 AM Place Plumereau is the heart of the historic centre of Tours. It is a lively square with bars and restaurants, framed by charming 15th-century half-timbered houses. A popular place to sit and watch the world go by!

The square is named in honour of Charles Plumereau, a municipal councillor of Tours, who bequeathed 3000 francs to the city.

Hôtel Goüin

11:15 AM – 11:30 AM This Renaissance palace served as a private mansion of a family of silk merchants in the 15th century. The façade with its beautiful arches is a real masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance. So don’t miss to take a quick look and admire the exterior!

Hôtel Goüin is named after a family of Breton bankers who purchased the building in 1738. And don’t be fooled by the word hotel, this is not an actual hotel, but a museum for temporary art exhibitions.

12:00 PM – 02:00 PM For lunch head to Les Gens Heureux . This typical French restaurant offers a small selection of interesting dishes with a unique combination of flavours.

Saint-Gatien Cathedral

02:00 PM – 02:30 PM Tours Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Gatien) is dedicated to the first bishop of Tours – Saint Gatianus. Built between 1170 and 1547, it reflects the development of the Gothic style of architecture. Some of the cathedral’s highlights include the spectacular 13th-14th century stained glass windows and an Italian-style organ.

The cathedral houses the tombs of the children of Anne de Bretagne and Charles VII. Also, you’ll find a chapel dedicated to Joan of Arc. She had met with Charles VII here in Tours, an important meeting which became a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War.

02:45 PM – 03:00 PM The last stop of this Tours itinerary is the town hall, Hôtel de Ville de Tours. Take your time and enjoy its magnificent Renaissance Revival façade.

The town hall was built between 1896 and 1904 by the famous architect Victor Laloux. It is the same architect who designed the Orsay museum in Paris!

Dinner at La Maison des Halles

Finish your one day in Tours with dinner at La Maison des Halles . The wine list here is great and the menu is excellent (don’t miss the desserts – the best I’ve had during a week in France).

More ideas for your one day in Tours, France

Museum of fine arts.

The Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) is housed in the former bishop’s palace. The museum owns a remarkable collection of Italian Primitives from the 14th-15th centuries. Among them are two renaissance paintings by Andrea Mantegna, considered masterpieces. You’ll also find many artworks by Delacroix, Degas, Monet, Rembrandt, Rubens and Rodin.

Don’t miss the staggering cedar tree at the museum entrance, which is over 200 years old!

Castle of Tours

Close to the cathedral, you’ll find the Castle of Tours (Château de Tours). Built in the 11th century, this small chateau served as a residence of the Carolingian dynasty. Today, it houses contemporary exhibitions of paintings and photographs .

Church of Saint Julien

The Church of Saint Julien (Église Saint-Julien de Tours) is a part of a former Benedictine abbey founded in the 6th century. Most of the church is in Romanesque style and dates back to the 13th century.

Tours Botanical Garden

Founded in 1843, the Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique de Tours) is the oldest city park. It’s a lovely area with lots of wildlife and thematic gardens – greenhouses, orchards, medical gardens, arboretums and many others. There is also a petting zoo with farm animals like donkeys, sheep, rabbits and poultry!

Musée de Compagnonnage

Musée de Compagnonnage occupies the dormitory at the former Abbey of Saint-Julien. This quirky museum is dedicated to the city’s trade guilds. The exhibition represents various objects related to metalwork, tailoring, culinary, shoemaking and woodcarving.

Where to stay in Tours, France

If you intend to use Tours as a base to explore the Loire castles, take a look at my recommendations below on where to stay. You’ll find most of the historic attractions and restaurants in the area between the Loire River and the Central Railway station. So, I’d advise you to look for accommodations in this area, because you’ll be within walking distance of everything.

Perfectly located in the heart of Tours, just a short walk from everything. Also, the hotel features a good bistro-style restaurant and a wellness centre with Spa, hammam and heated indoor pool. Why book – a short walk from the Old Town and Tours train station, heated indoor pool, private parking

Les Trésorières is an excellent choice for an upscale stay in Tours. Central quiet location and bright spacious room. A great wellness area, featuring a hammam, sauna and an indoor pool. Why book – at walking distance to the Old Town and Tours train station, indoor pool, parking nearby

Getting around in Tours, France

Find here a detailed map of this Tours walking itinerary.

The Old Town of Tours is very compact and you can easily explore it by walking in less than an hour.

How to get to Tours, France

Tours is well connected to other major cities in France by train. For example, it’s less than a 2 hours journey from Paris Gare Montparnasse. Tours station (Gare de Tours) is the city’s main railway station. It’s located just a short walk from the Old Town.

Check timetables and book train tickets online at SNCF official website .

Tours is divided into three different types of zones – red, orange and blue. The first two are limited to 3 hours of parking, while the blue one – to 5 hours. However, parking in the Old Town is free on Sundays and Monday – Saturday (between 12 PM – 2 PM and 6:30 PM – 9 AM).

If you’re arriving by car I’d recommend booking a hotel with parking or using any of the paid car parks in the city centre (see a list of all car parks here ).

Day trips from Tours, France

Loire valley chateaux.

The central location of Tours makes it a great base to explore the chateaux of Loire Valley. You’ll find a few of the most popular castles just a short train ride away. For more information, take a look at my guide on how to visit the Loire Valley .

Here are the most famous chateaux you can visit near Tours:

• Château de Chenonceau – known as Château des Dames, it’s the most beautiful Renaissance castle of Loire Valley
• Château de Chambord – this royal residence is one of the largest chateaux in France
• Château de Blois – home to 7 kings and 10 queens of France between the 13th and 17th centuries
• Château d’Amboise – the place where Leonardo Da Vinci spent his last years and where he is buried
• Château de Chaumont – a fairytale 10th-century castle, once home to Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers
• Château de Villandry – is known for its beautiful French Gardens, which consist of several terraces of renaissance gardens

Blois is one of the most charming towns in the Loire Valley. The city is known for its royal chateau and the Cathedral of Saint-Louis, a Gothic masterpiece. For more information, take a look at my travel guide on how to spend one day in Blois .

How to get to Blois Take a train from Gare de Tours to Gare de Blois – Chambord (40min journey). From there, it’s a 10min walk to the Old Town and the chateau.

Located just a short train ride away, Angers is a great option for a day trip from Tours. The city is famous for its castle, the ancient seat of the Plantagenet dynasty and the Apocalypse tapestry, the largest medieval tapestry in the world. Find out more in my travel guide to the best things to do in Angers .

How to get to Angers Take a train from Gare de Tours to Gare d’Angers Saint-Laud (50min journey). From the central train station, it’s about a 10min walk to the city centre.

How many days in Tours, France

Is one day in tours enough.

The city of Tours can be easily visited in less than a day. In fact, most of the people come not for sightseeing but to use the city as a base to explore the nearby castles. Still, there is plenty to see, so dedicate at least half a day to this charming town.

Best time to visit Tours, France

If you intend to visit Tours as a part of your Loire Valley trip, do it in the months of May, June or September. Crowds are fewer and the weather is not hot, but nice and warm.

Faqs about visiting Tours, France

Tours is one of the largest cities in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. It is worth visiting not only for the impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral and the Renaissance Hotel Gouïn, but also for the picturesque half-timbered houses. Thanks to its central location, the city is an excellent base to explore the castles of the Loire Valley.

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About the author

Thank you for the blog which covers Tours in depth. We are travelling On Nov 07th to Blois to see three castles and unfortunately all public transport stops on Nov 05th. We don’t have car. Apart from Taxi any other alternate solution ?

Many Thanks -Yoga

Unfortunately, there is no other option, but a taxi. However, there are still a lot of castles, which are are reachable by train – Château de Chenonceau, Château de Blois, Château de Chaumont, Château d’Amboise, Château d’Angers, Château de Langeais, Château de Saumur, Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, Château de Loches, Château de Chinon and Château de Meung-sur-Loire.

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Tours travel guide

Visit Tours (Centre-Loire Valley, France)

The town of Tours is in the Indre-et-Loire department of the Centre region (the Loire Valley), and it is the largest town in the region. A busy, thriving town Tours is also only an hour to the south-west of Paris .

Exploring Tours

France This Way review: in Tours you will discover an extensive medieval historic centre, an imposing cathedral and cloisters, modern shopping streets and several other important monuments: together these make the town a very interesting and enjoyable destination to visit.

If possible, start your visit with a visit to Tours Tourist office on Rue Bernard Palissy to the south-east of the centre: this is adjacent to the car park on Rue Général Leclerc so we suggest you park there if arriving by car. The tourist office have lots of useful information about hidden sites and places you might not otherwise discover, such as a route for wine tasting...

One of the main attractions in Tours is the historic centre of the old town, in and around Place Plumereau. Around the edges of the square there are beautiful 12th to 15th century half timbered houses and some houses that also include fascinating features such as the carved figures on the facade of the house on the corner with Rue du Commerce.

The square is also filled with cafes and open air seating, so it’s a great place to sit and have a drink.

After exploring the streets in the historic centre, if you walk a short distance south along Rue du Change you reach another group of interesting buildings including the Tour Charlemagne, built over the tomb of Luitgarde, the wife of Charlemagne, and the Basilica Saint-Martin.

Inside the Basilica Saint-Martin , built in Tours in the 19th century in the neo-byzantine style, you can admire the painting of the dome and in the crypt of the church is the tomb of Saint-Martin, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in France.

There are a number of grand houses dating from the Renaissance period along Rue du Commerce, to the east of the old town. Our favourite is the Hotel Gouin with a lovely Renaissance façade: the archeaology museum is now housed in the building.

At the end of Rue du Commerce you can see another impressive religious monument, the Church of Saint-Julien, that combines both roman and gothic styles of architecture.

Cathedral Saint-Gatien and La Psalette cloisters

The Cathedral Saint-Gatien, the most important religious monument in Tours, is at the east end of Rue Commerce and Rue Colbert, and contains the tombs of the children of Charles VIII. Most notable, although part of the cathedral dates from the 12th century, much of the western end was built in the 15th century in so-called 'flamboyant gothic' style.

Adjacent to the cathedral are the cloisters of la Psalette - an impressive structure in a mix of architectural styles with elaborate stonework and a beautiful renaissance staircase. In part of the cloisters you can see the room where religious chanting was practiced. The cloisters are listed as one of 85 National Monuments in France.

See our separate guide for information about Tours cathedral and the la Psalette cloisters .

Other monuments in Tours

Next to the cathedral is the Museum of Fine Arts housed in the Archbishops Palace. You should stroll around the pretty gardens even if you are not going into the museum. There is also a cedar tree in the garden of the Archbishops palace, famous for being planted by Napoleon.

Next to the river on the other side of the cathedral you can see the Chateau of Tours, although only two towers now remain. The Tour de Guise houses a wax-work museum and a Tropical Aquarium.

If you walk south along Rue Nationale from the Church of Saint-Julien you can pause to do some shopping then continue to Place Jean Jaures to see two very impressive classical style buildings dating from Tours period of prosperity in the 18th century: the Palais de Justice and the Hotel de Ville.

As you would expect of a major town such as Tours you will also find a wide range of shops, restaurants and all other commerces. There are also markets held in different parts of the town almost every day of the week.

Parcs and gardens in Tours

For a change from the bustle of the streets there are several public parks and gardens in Tours. We enjoyed a visit to the Botanic gardens, an extensive area of trees, gardens and water features opposite the Bretonneau Hospital to the west of the centre and also a stroll around the Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé to the south of Tours town centre (rue Roger Salengro).

There are many others that we did not unfortunately have time to visit, which you will find on the map given out by the tourist office in Tours.

Attractions nearby

Of course no visit to the Loire Valley would be complete without visiting a castle or two, and several of the most important castles, towns and villages are within easy reach of Tours.

Among our favourites, the gardens at Château de Villandry are a short distance along the river to the west of Tours, and in the pretty town of Amboise you can visit the Chateau d'Amboise and Chateau de Clos Lucé , once home to Leonardo da Vinci. See also Loire Valley castles for more information.

You can find more travel ideas in the Indre-et-Loire guide and the Loire Valley guide .

See also Find Tours hotels

Photos of Tours

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Map of tours and places nearby, visit near tours with france this way reviews.

Basilica of Saint-Martin in Tours

The basilica Saint-Martin is an imposing neo-byzantine church in the town of Tours

Tours Cathedral and La Psalette Cloisters

The la Psalette cloister and the cathedral of Tours together make a very impressive religious monument with various architectural styles

Chateau de Villandry

The rooms at Chateau de Villandry can be explored, but it is the world famous French style gardens here that will hold your attention the longest

Although it is the castle that attracts visitors to Amboise, you will also enjoy exploring the main square and old streets elsewhere in the small town

Azay-le-Rideau

The village of Azay-le-Rideau is best known for its castle but also has a pleasant centre with a historic church and mill to explore

Chateau d'Amboise

The Chateau d'Amboise is a castle with impressive gardens and a lovely view across the rooftops of Amboise

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Indre-et-Loire

Tourist classifications for Tours

Tours has received the following tourist classifications: listed town of Art and History ; historical protected town centre' (secteur sauvegardé); village in bloom (ville fleurie) 4*

Address: Tours, Loire Valley, 37000, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 47.393, longitude 0.6891

Plan your visit to Tours, Indre-et-Loire

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Cloisters of la Psalette : national monument
• Le jardin des Prébendes d'Oé: remarkable garden
• Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire: ville fleurie 4*
• Les jardins du prieuré de Saint-Cosme: remarkable garden (2 km)
• Les jardins du château de Villandry : remarkable garden (14 km)
• Parc et jardins du château de Valmer: remarkable garden (15 km)
• Aquarium du Val-de-Loire: aquarium (17 km)
• Les jardins de la Chatonnière: remarkable garden (22 km)
• Amboise : secteur sauvegarde (22 km)
• Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau : national monument (22 km)
• Réserve de Beaumarchais: zoo or wildlife park (27 km)
• Parc et jardins du château de Chenonceau : remarkable garden (30 km)

The French version of this page is at Tours (Francais)

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Visit Tours, the gateway city of the Loire Valley

Home › Discover › Tours and the finest cities in Touraine › Visit Tours, the gateway city of the Loire Valley

Beautiful, vibrant and lively, Tours is a pretty stopping point during a couple of days in the middle of the Loire Valley Chateaux . Tour its historic quarters with their half-timbered houses, the bustling Place Plumereau and Saint-Gatien Cathedral, as well as the new Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre.

On sunny days, the star of Tours is the River Loire! The now famous ‘Tours-sur-Loire’ guinguette  and the Tours beach extend the city limits to the banks of the river. Numerous activities are offered.

Tours is packed with gourmet bistros featuring fresh, locally sourced produce on their menus. You should taste the nougat of Tours , the potted rillettes of Tours, the saffron , or the "poires tapées" (dried pears). Genuinely unique!

Tours – A tale of two cities

In a perfect location, Tours is the great capital of the Loire Valley, a Unesco world heritage site, but it is far more than just a gateway to the Loire Chateaux. Indeed, Tours delights in being charming and doesn’t think twice about playing a double game in order to do so.

Visit Tours and its architecture full of history

First of all, there is its historical heritage. The birthplace of  Balzac   (more than fifty books to read) is proud of its old quarters , which take visitors on a wonderful journey back in time in France. Explore the narrow cobbled streets,  half-timbered french houses and the stone façade of the monumental  Saint-Gatien Cathedral , which give the city a charming medieval air.

The architecture of the Fine Arts Museum , the Hotel Gouïn  (Renaissance architecture),  Tours castle , the ‘la Psalette’ cloister and the Saint Martin Basilica (near the “tour Charlemagne” and the “tour de l’horloge”) is of great interest! You will enjoy those monuments through a illuminated walking experience , and of course with a guided tour proposed by the tourist office.

Tours - Saint-Gatien Cathedral

Château de Tours - Illuminated walking experience

Tours, a beautiful city in France

In addition to the built heritage, large green spaces perfectly enhance the french city. Designed in the 19th century and classified as a remarkable garden, the Prebendes d’Oe garden is a perfect example, as is the botanic garden and the Gloriette park . Attached to the latter, the practice of La Gloriette Golf may allow you to make your first swing!

You have a few days ahead of you?   Renting a bike , you will cycle from Tours to :

• the St Cosme priory (4km / 14 min),
• the Montbazon fortress (15km / 56 min),
• Vouvray wineries ( Château Gaudrelle , Vigneau-Chevreau …).
• the gardens of Villandry (19km / 1h03),
• the Valmer gardens (19km / 1h06).

The gardens of Villandry castle. France

It is also very pleasant to go shopping, to have a look at the exhibitions at the new  Olivier Debré Contemporary Creation Centre and at the Arts district , to relax at the summer ‘guinguette’, situated along the banks of the Loire River from which you can see the traditional boats (belonging to the Boutavant association ). You may also like to go on board for a fifty minute cruise on the river !

Tours - Boutavant boat on the River Loire

Visit Tours - Olivier Debré Contemporary Creation Centre

For night owls , a stopover in Tours also gives them an opportunity to treat themselves to a show, an evening in one of the many bars and cafés in the Old Town or a front seat at the free sound and light show  projected onto the Fine Art Museum façade every evening in the summer.

Some more pictures of Tours:

The Plumereau square

The Art Deco American Memorial

The Monster of Xavier Veilhan

The Jean Jaurès Square, with the Tours City Hall.

Visit Tours in video

Tours is the ideal place to spend a night as it is situated close to the main Loire Valley chateaux, along the Loire by bike trail , along the GR3 pedestrian route and on the way to Santiago de Compostela !

Practical: Tours Val de Loire Tourist Office

Book tickets, guided tour, day trip, activities for groups: www.tours-tourisme.fr/en +033 (0)2 47 70 37 37

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

It’s no mystery that Tours is a favourite base for people discovering the Loire Valley’s exalted châteaux.

Villandry, Chenonceau and Amboise are moments by car, and with the help of the Loire à Vélo network you can visit them on two wheels with ease.

But you may find that if you delve a little more into Tours’ history and attractions, it could be difficult to leave the city at all.

In the centre are timber houses and renaissance mansions on car-free streets, and museums that draw you into the city’s medieval past.

There are vineyards welcoming inquisitive oenophiles in the countryside and both the waters and banks of the Loire invite you to go wherever your sense of curiosity leads.

Lets explore the best things to do in Tours :

1. Tours Cathedral

Even by the glacial speed of construction in the middle ages, Tours Cathedral took a long time to be completed.

Building began in 1170 and wouldn’t be finished until 1547, but this means we’re met with a perfect summary of the evolution of gothic art.

The ensemble of original 13th-century stained glass windows in the ambulatory chapels and above the choir is one of the finest in France, and seems to generate its own light.

The cathedral has information panels giving you the meaning behind each image.

The marble renaissance tombs of King Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany’s children are also moving, as both died in infancy.

2. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

The riches from Cardinal Richelieu’s 17th-century campaign against the Huguenots and the art seized from abbeys during the Revolution all ended up at Tours’ stellar museum of fine art.

Because of their religious source there’s a good body of Italian gothic primitives from the 14th and 15th centuries, while the two renaissance paintings by Andrea Mentegna are regarded as masterpieces.

You’ve got over a thousand artworks to get through, with sculpture by Rodin, Flemish and Dutch painting by Rembrandt and Rubens, and Impressionism by Monet and Degas.

3. Tours Botanical Garden

The city’s municipal garden has a bit of a troublesome setting, between the Loire and Cher, which made it susceptible to flooding in the past, with two devastating inundations in the mid-19th century that filled the greenhouses with two metres of water.

Even after being hit by bombs in the Second World War there isn’t the slightest hint of a troubled past at these serene gardens.

On your walk you may notice some trees you haven’t seen before, like the Chinese empress tree, ginkgo biloba and the endangered dawn redwood.

The animal park is from 1863 and has farm animals for kids to bond with, as well as more exotic species like wallabies.

4. Le Vieux Tours

Like all the best historic city centres the historic buildings on the pedestrian streets around Place Plumereau aren’t sterile museum pieces but vibrant cornerstones of local life, used as shops, restaurants and bars.

Place de Plumereau is at the nerve centre of one of the largest conservation areas in Europe, with renaissance mansions boasting sculpted reliefs or cantilevered timber houses, going strong for hundreds of years.

If you’re OK with everybody knowing you’re a tourist, jump aboard the little train that departs every hour from Place Plumereau in summer.

5. Musée du Compagnonnage

In the 16th-century Dormitory at the former Abbey of Saint-Julien is a museum devoted to a French workers’ movement that dates back to medieval times.

Roughly, the Compagnons du Tour de France is like a guild of journeymen that preserves historic trades and educates young people about them as part of an apprenticeship.

To complete the apprenticeship and become a “companion” a craftsman had to create a masterpiece for whatever discipline he worked in.

And these dumbfounding creations are presented at the museum, in all kinds of different disciplines, like metalwork, tailoring, shoemaking and woodcarving.

6. Hôtel Goüin

What may be the most beautiful of Tours’ many old building has just come through a long restoration and is open to the public once more.

Hôtel Goüin is an early-renaissance palace on Rue du Commerce, with a balustraded porch and the sort of loggia in which you might expect to see Juliet calling for Romeo.

During the restoration they unearthed fragments of an older building from the 1100s, with four arches and a well, which are on show.

You might just want to stop for a photo of that magnificent facade, but there’s an archaeological museum inside with artefacts from Roman times up to the 1800s.

7. Halles de Tours

Billed as the “Belly of Tours” (ventre de Tours), the city’s indoor market may not be France’s largest, but it’s a gastronome’s idea of heaven.

You may even want to bring your camera or have your phone at the ready, because the cheese, charcuterie, seafood and in-season fruit and vegetable counters are presented with real flair.

If you’re stuck for gift ideas then markets like this tick the box as they’re stocked with all the best from the region.

At Tours that entails wine from the Loire Valley and luxury chocolate.

The city is one of France’s chocolate capitals, and every years holds the Salon du Chocolat de Tours at the Centre de Congrès Vinci.

Come for lunch too: The oyster bar shucks your oyster as you go.

8. Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé

During the French Second Empire from the mid-1800s English-style parks like this one popped up in provincial cities across France.

This was a spot for urban families to take promenades, kids to play and for the city to put on outdoor concerts at the park’s gazebo.

There’s less of the formality of French parterres, as paths weave through tulip flowerbeds and  copses of lime, plane, cedar, chestnut and lofty redwood trees.

So if you could do with a moment of repose take a wander by the pond and pause for a tea or coffee at the kiosk.

On warmer days you could load up on cheese and charcuterie at the market and have the perfect French picnic.

9. Église Saint-Julien de Tours

The predecessors of this  12th-century abbey were wrecked by the Normans in the 9th century and then in a war between the feudal houses of Blois and Anjou in the 10th century.

But miraculously the building that followed has survived everything from the French Revolution to the Second World War.

It was part of a long-gone abbey, and the garden next to the church is where the cloister used to be, while the Musée de Compagnonnage occupies the old dormitory.

10. “Toue” River Cruises

Commercial craft floated along the Loire and Cher since antiquity, hauling people, wine, silk, lumber, salt and all sorts of other cargo up and down these rivers.

Because the waterways can get very shallow they used flat-bottomed sailboats called “toues”, and you can too! Toues can carry between 12 and 30 passengers for hour-long trips, or even romantic dinner cruises in the evening.

Their skippers know these waters and banks like the backs of their hands: And with the deck as your balcony, they’ll shed light on the Tours’ river trade, its many colourful characters and perils.

11. Loire à Vélo

If you had to picture some quintessentially French holiday activities, a bike ride next to the Loire with a backdrop of gentle vine-striped hills and châteaux must be one of the first that comes to mind.

About 150km of the of the Loire à Vélo cycle trail’s totalling 800km are in the Touraine region.

The route is clearly-marked, easy -going because it never leaves the riverside and convenient as there are dozens of hire stations along the way.

You could give yourself set destinations like Amboise or Villandry, which are both reachable in about an hour.

Or make more of an adventure of it by going further afield and spending the night at the inns on the route that are happy to accommodate cyclists.

12. Guinguette sur Loire

On the left bank of the Loire, just by Pont Wilson, is where Tours’ “Guinguette” takes place from May to September.

It isn’t officially summer in Tours until this outdoor café by the river is bustling every evening with locals and tourists at the bar terrace, taking part in dance lessons, enjoying concerts or watching movies at the outdoor cinema.

Tours is a student city so the atmosphere is always warm and energetic.

The location is wonderful, under willow trees and string lights, with the river rolling past.

And every year there Guinguette has something new on the schedule.

13. Wine and Gastronmic Visits

If you’re a wine-lover you’ve come to the right place.

There’s an absurd amount of AOCs nearby: A dozen within an hour, and five bordering the city.

The diversity will make your head spin more than the wine itself, with the reds of Touraine-Chenonceau, the whites of Touraine Sauvignon and rosés made in Touraine noble joué.

When it comes to precious foodstuffs there’s a saffron market in Preuilly-sur-Claise and a seasonal truffle market at Marigny-Marmande.

The local cheese, Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine is known to all for its cylindrical shape and the straw that pierces it through the centre.

To know more, pay a visit to the dairy at Les Passerelles or the child-friendly goat farm, Cabri au Lait, which makes Sainte-Maure but also has a petting zoo for the little guys and girls.

14. Château de Villandry

It would be criminal to visit Tours and not call in at one of the abundant château in the region.

Tours is touted as a gateway for these sensational pieces of French royal or noble heritage.

You can reach Villandry in 20 minutes, and it’s one of the finest.

The gardens are the showstopper at this château.

They were restored at the turn of the century by the Spanish doctor Joachim Carvallo.

He conceived several terraces of renaissance gardens, all with precisely trimmed boxwood hedges in joyous geometric configurations.

There’s a water garden, labyrinth, sun garden, ornamental garden with high hedges, but the most astounding is the formal medieval kitchen garden, all in neat plots.

15. Château d’Amboise

The home of Francis I and most of the French royalty in the 16th century is a 20-minute car or train ride to the east.

The château had its heyday in the renaissance period after Charles VIII turned it from a fortress into the Loire valley’s first Italian-style palace in the late-1400s.

In 1516 Francis I invited Leonardo da Vinci to live and work in Amboise, and the polymath’s home at Clos Lucé was actually connected to the Château d’Amboise by underground passageways that you can discover today by prior arrangement.

Da Vinci died here in 1519 and is buried at the Chapel of Saint-Hubert at the Château.

The gardens are embellished with spherical topiaries and the views from this spur above the Loire are divine.

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France):

• Tours Cathedral
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
• Tours Botanical Garden
• Le Vieux Tours
• Musée du Compagnonnage
• Hôtel Goüin
• Halles de Tours
• Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé
• Église Saint-Julien de Tours
• "Toue" River Cruises
• Loire à Vélo
• Guinguette sur Loire
• Wine and Gastronmic Visits
• Château de Villandry
• Château d'Amboise

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Visit Tours, a Historic City in the Loire Valley

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Loire Valley Food and Wine Cultural Heritage Sporting Activities Nature and Outdoor Activities Cities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023

Here, living is an art

Tours , the capital of Touraine , enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the prestigious region of the Loire châteaux . Crossed by two rivers, this charming Gallo-Roman town maintains its status as a timeless "Garden of France."

On foot, by train or bicycle, discover the famous district of "Old Tours" or stroll through the historic gardens of the city. On the terrace of a café, in medieval alleys or through its markets, you'll taste the "sweetness of Tours."

Traditional departure site for tours to major cultural attractions in the Loire Valley, Tours is also the home of the "live well and eat well" ideal, so dear to Rabelais.

What not to miss in this beautiful European city:

As a city of art and history, Tours has benefited from an active policy of restoring its old quarters during the 60s, which has allowed it to keep the Place Plumereau, one of the largest restored areas in Europe.

• The Museum of Compagnons: The heritage of Compagnons - the guilds of skilled craftsmen found nowhere else in the world!
• Place Plumereau and its half-timbered houses, medieval streets, the Châteauneuf neighborhood.
• The Cathedral of St. Gatien
• The Basilica of St. Martin
• Traditional markets
• The Vinci International Convention Center, designed by Jean Nouvel.
• The Prébendes d'Oé Garden
• Specialties: "Rillettes de Tours," "Nougat de Tours," Vouvray wines, and wines from Montlouis-sur-Loire

The "Tours" of events

• The Fêtes Musicales in Touraine: International Festival of Classical Music. In February, June and November.
• The Vocal Anthology: International Competition of Choral Singing at Pentecost.
• Tours on the Loire: Guinguette along the Loire, outdoor cinema, and shows. From mid-May to mid-September.
• Vitiloire: one hundred winegrowers give you a taste of the wines of the Loire. Early June.
• Garlic and Basil Fair: traditional gourmet feast. In July.
• 10 and 20 km Tours marathons. In September.
• The Paris-Tours: for over a hundred years, this famous bicycle race is held annually in October.

Visit Tours

• Led by guide-lecturers from Villes et Pays d'Art et d'Histoire , the Tours/Loire Valley Tourist Office offers a wide selection of general or themed guided tours: "Antique", "Renaissance", "Cathedral", "St. Martin", "Victor Laloux," and "Nocturne"
• Audio tours: Discover Tours at your leisure with our IPOD!
• The little train: Let yourself be carried through the old quarters of the city for a 50-minute guided tour. Easter to October.
• The carriage: You'll discover the streets of Tours to the rhythm of hooves pounding the pavements of the old town. In July and August.
• Visit Tours and its surroundings with the "Pass through Tours" passes available in several options at reasonable prices.

"This town is joyous, loving, fresh, flowery, and better-perfumed than any other city in the world ..." - (Balzac, born in Tours).

Getting to Tours

Tours is one of the major French cities, situated at the crossroads of central France and at the heart of European communication lines.

• Train: Take the train to the Gare de Tours Centre, or to the Gare de Saint-Pierre-des-Corps (with shuttle trains to Tours).
• International airport just outside Tours
• Freeways: A10 - A85 - A28
• TWITTER - Tours N' Loire (French)

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10 Best Things To Do In Tours, France

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: August 14, 2021  - Last updated: February 20, 2023

Are you looking for the best things to do in Tours, France ?

The birthplace of Honoré de Balzac , one of France’s greatest authors , the city of Tours is the gateway to the Loire Valley . It was also once the base of the French government.

Planked by the rivers Cher and Loire, Tours is the largest city in the French region of Centre-Val de Loire. It offers sights and activities you cannot (and should not) say no to.

Things you'll find in this article

1. Be awed by Loire Valley’s famous chateaux in Tours

2. understand why tours is known as “le jardin de la france” , 3. visit cathédrale saint gatien de tours, 4. enjoy the medieval and local atmosphere at place plumereau, tours, 5. visit the past at the musée du compagnonnage, 6. pay homage to st. martin at the basilique saint martin, 7. stroll across pont wilson (wilson bridge), 8. meet the giant cedar tree at the musée des beaux-arts de tours, 9. buy flowers at marché aux fleurs (flower market), travel tips and resources.

Here are the best things to do and see in Tours, France

If you’re visiting Tours, you simply can’t not be awed by the famous Loire Valley chateaux found in this city – Château de Tours, Château de La Branchoire, Château de Beaulieu, and Château de la Crouzillière, to name a few. 

These beautiful old chateaux should get you started. 

Dubbed the “Garden of France,” Tours is home to numerous parks located within the city. 

The Botanical Garden, which dates to the mid-19th century, is a nice place to visit especially if you have children. There are also some animals in the gardens which make it more interesting.

Jardins des Prébendes d’Oé, with its lake, big sequoia trees, a number of quiet spots to sit and rest, and a nice little café by the main gates, is a delightful park hidden away in the city. It’s worth finding it.

Parc Honoré de Balzac, named after the famous French author – Tours’ very own – is on a man-made island. It has a play area, an animal park, and a river if you want to practice canoeing. 

These are but a few of numerous parks and gardens that make Tours quite the “Garden of France.”

A must-visit when in Tours, Cathédrale Saint Gatien de Tours, also known as Tours Cathedral, is a magnificent building that’s beautiful inside and out. 

Hands down the best church in Tours, it was constructed in stages from 1170 to 1547, between the Gothic and Renaissance styles. It’s definitely one of the best you’ll ever see.

The garden next door also provides the perfect view of the church towers.

Place Plumereau is the heart of Old Tours. 

Situated in the center of the old quarters of the city, Place Plumereau’s main feature is the 15th-century half-timbered houses that make it such a perfect place to enjoy the medieval and local atmosphere.

The square is brimming with restaurants and cafés so you can admire the beautiful Romanesque and Renaissance façades while you sip your latte.

Musée du Compagnonnage is a small museum that showcases intricate crafts and exhibits so you can have a glimpse into how the trades developed in France. 

This is a must-see museum if you want to visit the past and pay tribute to forgotten craftsman and artisans who made masterpieces with their brains and bare hands. 

The trades museum is right at the end of the main shopping street so it’s very accessible.

A lovely church built over the tomb of St. Martin of Tours, Basilique Saint Martin has a very long history. 

The site itself dates back to the 5th century, when the first church was built. It was completely destroyed during the French Revolution in 1793. The present church was constructed between 1886 and 1924 in a neo-Byzantine style.

It is an interesting place to visit, a definite stop whether you’re a Catholic or not. A visit to the crypt downstairs is unmissable. Go see for yourself!

Pont Wilson was built between 1765 and 1778, making it the oldest bridge in Tours. This historical monument is named in honor of Woodrow Wilson, 28th president of the United States and an ally of France during the First World War.

Pont Wilson was destroyed by a terrible flood but has been restored to its original state since. You can tell from the high water marks just how severe the floods were in the past centuries.

A stroll across this famous bridge provides some excellent views of the city skyline on either sides, as well as the charming riverside cafés. 

… and while you’re there, go and check out the museum’s impressive collection of eclectic art! 

Also, say hi to the stuffed elephant in front of the museum.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Tours houses over 12,000 works – however, only a thousand are on public show. Still a good number, though.

The giant cedar of Lebanon, the stuffed elephant, and those fine artworks inside are all masterpieces surely not to be missed when in Tours.

If you’re like me who neither has the time nor the inclination to go on a trip to the local market, well, this is your chance for a market experience while on a holiday!

There is a large flower market in the streets of Tours twice a week – Wednesdays and Saturdays. 

A market that smells heavenly; what more can you ask for? Here they sell not just flowers but craft items as well, so you can also get some souvenirs while you shop for tulips and sunflowers.

And of course, photos are compulsory with all the colorful blooms around.

10. Sample the world-famous Loire Valley wines in Tours

If you love fine wine , Tours is your piece of heaven on earth. The number of AOCs (“appellation d’origine contrôlée”/”controlled designation of origin”) in and around Tours is simply insane! 

The Loire Valley wine region is known for producing dry, white wines, as well as tannin-rich red wines.

So a trip to the Loire Valley without tasting its wines is committing a sin and definitely unheard of. So oenophile or not, go have a sip or two (or twenty-two) of Chenin Blanc!

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Best things to do in the city of Tours, France

Nestled in Loire Valley along the riverside shores of Loire, Tours is the first main city you’ll probably stop in while visiting Loire Valley from Paris . Not only dynamic and captivatingly historic, Tours is also an imperative stopover on your Route of Loire Valley Castle .

Table of Contents

Some of the team member at Winalist’s are actually from the Loire Valley and created this amazing guide to help you discover the city and its surroundings in. You will also find our tips on the best Loire Valley wineries to visit.

Best things to do & see in Tours, France

We recommend you to spend around a half-day in Tours before driving to another destination in the Valley. Find out about the Top places to visit in Tours now!

The historic city center of Tours

One of the most captivating things to do in Tours is exploring its historic city center, which will instantly transport you to a different era. The cobblestone streets and Tudor-style architecture evoke an almost mesmerizing atmosphere that encourages further exploration through every winding corner.

Idea for a walk: In the evening, the city of Tours showcases all its riches by offering ” Light Trails “ by illuminating the city’s emblematic monuments. All you have to do is criss-cross the “Vieux-Tours” or “Balzac” route to enjoy this open-air spectacle.

Saint-Gatien Cathedral

One of the most impressive things to do in Tours is this special ampitheater. Built on the remains of the Gallo-Roman city Caesarodunum , the Saint-Gatien cathedral is right in the center of the city. Bringing together the pious, lovers of art, architecture or history, this building is a clever mix of Gothic construction and Renaissance style, testimony to its evolution through the ages.

Walk along the banks of the Loire river

As you probably know, Tours is crossed by the Loire River. It is therefore natural that we advise walkers and hikers to tread the urban path starting from rue André Malraux.

For about 3 miles (1h30), you can follow the banks of the Loire and discover Ile Aucard as well as Ile Simon which offers a beautiful view of the Pont Wilson for a photo break.

The botanical garden

Next on our list of things to do in Tours is its Botanical garden. Since 1843, the botanical garden has been an essential place for a walk. There is a space dedicated to plant collections, a playground for children and even an animal park.

What to do near Tours, France?

Discover this incredible region of white and rosé wines! Experience the beauty of local cellars, engage with passionate winegrowers and collect unforgettable memories while indulging in a variety of flavors.

Visit the amazing Loire Valley Castles

The Loire Valley is home to some of the most magnificent castles in France, and those near Tours are not to be missed. One of the top castles to visit is Château de Chenonceau , known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that are reflected in the waters of the River Cher. Another must-see is Château de Chambord (above), a Renaissance masterpiece with its iconic double-helix staircase. Château de Villandry is also worth a visit for its elaborate gardens, while Château d’Amboise offers breathtaking views of the Loire River. These castles near Tours showcase the rich history and architectural beauty of the Loire Valley, making them a must-see for any visitor to the region.

Meet Loire Valley wine growers

Great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of French winemaking, discovering Loire Valley wineries is a must-do while in the region. Known for its picturesque vineyards, historic chateaux, and diverse wine production, making it an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts. From sharing a meal with a winegrower to walking in the vineyards or exploring some antics troglodytes cellars (old chalk cellars), import our interactive map to your cell phone and book your next wine experience on Winalist!

Take a Loire Valley Vineyard Day Trip

Discover the treasures of the Loire Valley comfortably seated in a 9-seater mini-bus with the Val de Loire Travel agency.

During a full day, you will be taken to several villages around Tours to discover the troglodytes, the know-how and the wines of the region . The wine tour will end with a visit to one of the most beautiful private castles in the region, located in the middle of the forest of Chinon.

The expedition will include several tastings of fine wines and a delightful meal, all meticulously planned by the organizers. At day’s end, you’ll be brought back to your launching point in Tours’ city center.

What is Tours, France known for?

The main attractions of Tours, France are the Saint-Gatien Cathedral, the Museum of Fine Arts, the botanical garden and Vieux-Tours with its half-timbered houses.

Is tours a city in France?

Yes, tours is a city located in France, in the Loire Valley. It is known for its beautiful architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Tours is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its many attractions and cultural sites. So, to clarify, tours is a city in France.

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Tours: Renaissance city in the Loire Valley

• Post category: Loire Valley
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

The city of Tours is one of the oldest cities in France. Located on the river Loire, it is a beautiful city surrounded by several world-famous châteaux that are within an hours drive.

It is within 1 hour of several famous châteaux in the area like Château de Chenonceau , Château Royale d’Amboise , Château de Chaumont , Château de Chambord , and Château de Cheverny , near the cities of Amboise and Tours . And it is about 3 hours away from Paris, making it ideal for a day trip from the city.

But even before the chateaux of the Loire , the city of Tours is one that marked the history books, dating back to the Roman era. So let’s see why Tours is so famous and what there is to see and do in the city, shall we? Allons-y!

History of Tours

The city of Tours is located with the Loire river on one side and the Cher river on the other. This strategic location made a settlement here of vital importance for centuries. The city was formerly named Caesarodunum by its founder, Roman Emperor Augustus, after his predecessor Julius Caesar who had conquered Gaul (old France) .

Much of what is known about this period is due to the famous 6th century historian Gregoire de Tours who was from the area, and who produced several books about the time, including about Clovis, the 1st King of the Franks .

It was also the location of the historic Battle of Tours of 732, when Frankish tribes led by Charles Martel defeated over the invading Saracen forces who had come from the muslim-ruled Iberian Peninsula (today Spain). The defeat prevented the Sarancen invasion of France, stopping further invasions into northern Europe.

The city of Tours became the seat of the authority of the Counts of Tours (later Counts of Anjou) and the Kings of France , as the capital of the province of Tourraine . The one of the first major currencies used in France was named after the city’s mint, the Livre Tournois .

In the Middle ages, Tours was heavily disputed between the Counts of Anjou and the Counts of Blois . (The English King Richard the Lionheart fought here as he was also the Count of Anjou and Aquitaine, titles gained from war and from his mother Eleanor of Aquitaine .)

The city of Tours became so important, it was practically considered a capital of France between 1430 and 1530, with a continual stay of kings in the province of Touraine.

However, it was the château at Blois (Louis XII’s childhood home) and then Château d’Amboise ( François Ier’s childhood home) where the Kings of France would eventually stay, rather than the Château at Tours.

Although Tours would slowly decline in importance as the French royals would install themselves in Fontainebleau and then eventually Versailles , the city would become the capital of France again briefly in 1870 during the Franco-Prussian war . As Paris was under seige for 4 months by the Germans , and the French government operated from Tours during that period.

During WWI, Tours became a garrison town with 25,000 American soldiers stationed here in 1917. Factories for the manufacture of uniforms, repair shops for military equipment, munitions dumps, and even an American military hospital was set up to support the Allied armies.

The city of Tours suffered greatly during WWII, when it was severely bombed. Large fires destroyed much of the city’s core. Many monuments around the city are dedicated to this era, including a bridge named after Woodrow Wilson, the U.S. president during the war.

After the war, reconstruction efforts have made it a vibrant center in the Loire valley, and a university town attracting the young and old.

Things to do in Tours

1. tours cathedral.

The Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, which is also known as the Tours Cathedral is one of the grand gothic cathedrals of France .

It is the seat of the Archbishops of Tours, and construction began in the 12th century, around the same time as the cathedrals of Paris , Reims , and Chartres . Earlier churches have stood on the site, dating back to the 4th century.

It is a Roman Catholic church and is also notable for holding the tombs of the children of Anne of Brittany and her first husband, King Charles VIII of France.  (Her 2nd husband was King Louis XII, making her twice the Queen of France.)

In 1793, during the French Revolution , it was nationalised and transformed into a Temple of Reason, until it was finally restored to a church in the 19th century.

2. Château de Tours

Constructed in the 11th century, the Château de Tours stands just footsteps away from the Cathedral of Tours. Unlike the newer and ornamental Renaissance châteaux of the Loire, the Château de Tours is a medieval fortress that was built to defend.

It was almost completely destroyed in the 18th century, with only two medieval towers remaining. A newer wing to the château was added later. These days it is an events and cultural space, holding temporary exhibitions with paintings, sculptures, engravings, drawings, photography, and video.

3. Tours Amphitheatre

As Tours used to be a Roman settlement, it used to hold one of the largest amphitheaters of the Roman Empire in France , the Tours Amphitheatre. Known at the time as the  Caesarodunum amphitheater, it is located directly behind the Tours Cathedral and

However, not much of the amphitheatre remains above ground today. Its walls were integrated in the ramparts of the city, along with the Château de Tours, and much of it was completely forgotten and demolished over the centuries.

The amphitheater was rediscovered (1855) during construction works nearby, and its cellars uncovered under the city. You can still see some of the walls and ruins along Rue du Général-Meusnier, Rue Racine and Rue de la Bazoche, which are free to explore.

4. Vieux Tours

In the center of the city of Tours, stands the medieval old town. With its timbered buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, there is much to explore.

Notable streets in the area are Rue de Colbert, Rue de Commerce and Rue de Grand Marché, all of which are lined with tiny shops and restaurants.

5. Place Plumereau

Place Plumereau in the center of the old part of Tours is a large square that is lined with restaurants.

It is a bustling part of town that gets very busy in the evening, so head over early if you are looking for dinner and a prime spot to watch all the activity.

6. Tours Charlemagne

The Charlemagne tower in Vieux Tours is a remnant of an old basilica dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours . Saint Martin was the local Bishop of Tours from the 3rd century who is heralded as one of the patron saints of France .

Known as Martin the Merciful, he converted to Christianity at a young age and was later sanctified.

The name of Tour Charlemagne however comes from the 8th century, when Emperor Charlemagne buried his 4th wife Luitgarde d’Alémanie near the tomb, after she died during his stay in Tours.

The Tour Charlemagne is the start of the Circuit Saint Martin to follow the footsteps of Saint Martin. Signs around the city note that the “Pilgrimage of Tours is one of the oldest of Christendom along with ones in Rome, Jerusalem, and Santiago de Compostela”.

7. Basilique Saint-Martin

A few meters across the street from the Tour Charlemagne is the Basilique Saint-Martin. With gold decorations on its dome, it is another stop on the Circuit Saint-Martin.

The present church was built between 1886 and 1924 in a neo-Byzantine style, on the site of a church which dated back to the 6th century.

8. Toue River cruises

Around Tours you will find the traditional flat-bottomed wooden boats called the “Toue” which sail on the Loire and Cher rivers.

The boats usually sail in the summer time, offering commentary about the local history, stories and other anecdotes while floating past beautiful landscapes. You can catch a toue on the quais along the Loire, from the center of Tours.

9. Musée des beaux arts 

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours is located in a former palace of the Bishops of Tours, near the Cathedral St. Gatien. The museum has a wide collection of paintings from the Middle ages, when Tours was at its height in terms of cultural influence.

There are also many sculptures dating back to antiquity and the Roman era, as well as more recent paintings from the 18th and 19th century. The museum is also famous for its model of Fritz, a stuffed Asian elephant that was shot when it became uncontrollable during a Barnum & Bailey circus parade in Tours in 1902.

10. Botanical garden 

Established in 1843, the Jardin botanique de Tours is a large botanical garden holding over 2000 types of trees and plants.

Inside the garden are several greenhouses to allow for a wide variety of plants to be grown, including several exotic species and medical plants. The gardens are open daily, although may be closed on holidays.

11. Halle de Tours

The Halle de Tours is a large French indoor market selling local specialties such as artisan breads , charcuterie , cheeses & wine from the terroir .

The current building dates back to the 19th century, and people flock here form all over the Loire for its gastronomical delights.

12. Château de Villandry

About 20 minutes outside of Tours, you will find the magnificent Château de Villandry and its beautiful gardens . While the other grand châteaux are a bit further away, the Château de Villandry is a lovely place to visit in the afternoon, after visiting the city center of Tours.

Dating back to the 10th century and the Middle ages, the fortress that once stood here was known as the “Coulombiers”. It is believed that the French King Philippe Auguste and English King Richard the Lionheart met at Villandry to discuss peace terms. You can see still see the fortified castle of Coulombiers as it was during this period.

Today, the Château de Villandry is a private château with elaborate exhibitions inside, along with beautiful curated gardens and even a labyrinth maze. You can find guided tours to take you Château de Villandry f r o m T o u r s here.

13. Église Saint-Julien de Tours

A church has stood on the site of the Église Saint-Julien de Tours since the 6th century. The current building dates mostly back to the 13th century after it was destroyed and rebuilt many times (including during WWII).

14. Harry Potter store (Les Trois sorciers)

If you are a Harry Potter fan, you will want to check out Les Trois sorciers shop in Tours. It is located on Rue du Commerce and is dedicated to toys, books, and tricks for all sorts of sorcery and witchery.

15. Musée du Compagnonnage

Just in front of the Église Saint-Julien de Tours church is the Musée du Compagnonnage.

It is a museum displaying crafts & exhibits relating to the trade-guilds and their history. Skilled labor works such as stone sculpting, woodcarving, etc are located in what used to be an abbey attached to the church, along with temporary exhibitions.

16. Hotel Gouin

An emblematic building in the city of Tours is the Hotel Gouin. It is a 15th century hotel particulier (private mansion) that was the home of a family of silk merchants.

The sub-basement contains Galloroman remains, but the visible facade dates from the 16th century in early Renaissance style. Inside is an exhibition center featuring various exhibitions and events for limited periods of time.

17. American Monument Fountain

The Monument aux morts Américain de Tours was constructed by the U.S. Government in dedication to the 640,000 soldiers who served in the area during WWI.

The American Services of Supply (SOS) had their headquarters in Tours, supporting the expeditionary forces that were operating across Western Europe.

This fountain with its golden eagle stands on the quai of the Loire river, right next to Pont Wilson bridge, in dedication to their bravery.

18. Resistance and Deportation Memorial

Right next to the American monument stands the Resistance and Deportation memorial for those who fought and lost their lives during WWII.

On the banks of the river Loire, it is a beautiful place to reflect on the past and the history that has occurred on the city’s shores.

19. Loire Valley châteaux

The Loire Valley is famous for its multitude of châteaux and the city of Tours is right in the thick of things.

The châteaux of Chambord , Blois , Chenonceau , Chaumont and Chéverny are within 1 hour, and the city of Amboise (with the Château Royale d’Amboise ) is also within 30 minutes. The various Loire Valley châteaux are officially recognized on the UNESCO world heritage list .

Along with those famous châteaux and royal palaces , there are several smaller châteaux for nobility who lived in the area and built housing near the seat of power during the Renaissance.

In all, you can easily spend a week in the area, going from château to château and exploring the area. (For those travelling with children, there is also the Zoo de Beauval at Saint-Aignan within 50 minutes of Tours, if you want to a break between the châteaux.)

20. Wine tastings

One of the local specialties in and around Tours is the Loire valley wines. Although not as famous as other French wines , they have a following of their own and are gaining in popularity.

The Loire Valley mostly produces white wines , but there are some red wiens as well. The area is the second-largest concentration of sparkling-wine producing vines in France after the Champagne region.

Having French royalty like François I and Catherine de Medici nearby as well as the British royals, meant that their courtiers and followers all got used to drinking wines from the Loire Valley, and effectively marketed the wines to other nobles and royals around France and Europe.

There are many wine-tasting tours that will combine with chateaux visits in the Loire Valley.

How to get to Tours?

The city of Tours is quite accessible from Paris by car and by train. It takes approximately 2h15 to drive from Paris depending on traffic. By train, you can take a TGV high speed train from Paris’s Montparnasse station to the city of Tours, which takes approximately 1 hour.

There are also various tour options leaving from Tours which head to the Château de Chambord and Chenonceau and other sights in the area. Certain tours combine wine-tasting and sightseeing. You can see the  tour options for the city of Tours  here.

How easy is it getting around?

The city of Tours is quite walkable, and there are several large parking lots that you can park your car at and visit all the centrally located sights. One of the larger parking lots is right under the quai in front of Pont Wilson bridge. From there you will find the Cathedral of Tours and the Château on one side, with the Old Tours on the other.

How many days should you spend?

I would suggest spending at least a day in Tours, to explore its different streets and neighborhoods. You can choose to base yourself here and stay overnight for a few days as there are several châteaux and vineyards in the surrounding area.

Where should you stay?

There are several wonderful hotels in the Tours city center, near all the sights and shops. Some recommended hotels are:

• €€€ – Hotel Du Cygne Tours
• €€€€ – Oceania L’Univers Tours
• €€€€€ – Les Trésorières hotel

You can also choose to stay in nearby Amboise or Blois which are a bit closer to the other famous châteaux of the Loire.

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A Guide to the Best Things to do in Tours, Loire Valley

Last Updated on 13th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Nestled in the heart of the Loire valley, a region of France well known for its many historic châteaux, the town of Tours has kept many vestiges of its medieval past. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Tours , as well as what to know before you go.

What is Tours known for?

Tours cathedral, château de tours, musée des beaux arts de tours, relax in the park prébendes d’oé garden, enjoy the cherry blossom, harry potter store (les trois sorciers), musée du compagnonnage, walk along the river loire , take a boat ride , flood level, get a drink at place plumereau , charlemagne tower , clock tower, basilica , christmas market, take a day trip to amboise, take a day trip to the loire valley château, boll n roll, where to stay in tours.

Tours is a city located in the Loire Valley region of central France, known for its rich history, architecture, and cultural attractions. Among them are the Château de Tours and the Cathedral of Saint Gatien.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours is another notable attraction, featuring a collection of over 12,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

The city also boasts the picturesque Place Plumereau, a popular spot for dining and socialising surrounded by medieval half-timbered buildings, and Les Halles de Tours, a bustling indoor market.

Tours is also known as the gateway to the Loire Valley, home to numerous historic châteaux, including Château de Chenonceau, Château de Chambord , and Château de Villandry, making it a popular destination for history, culture, and food enthusiasts. For more inspiration, check out our suggested Loire Valley itinerary .

Things to do in Tours

Truth be told, one of the best things to do in Tours is to stroll around the old town, which is characterised by its little lanes and timber-framed architecture.

Old Tours makes up the streets surrounding Place Plumereau. Largely pedestrianised, the little cobbled lanes are perfect for snapping stunning medieval-esque photos.

Widely regarded to be one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France , Tours Cathedral is officially known as Cathédrale Saint-Gatien and was constructed between the 12th and 16th-centuries.

Today, highlights of the Gothic ecclesiastical building include original 13th-century stained glass windows and several ornate stone-carved tombs of the children of Anne of Brittany.

As is the case with many medieval towns, Tours boasts its own Château with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. The Château de Tours was constructed in the 11th-century and was once home to the  Lords of France. Today, the castle can be visited for a small fee.

Those who wish to enjoy some of the finest paintings held in the Loire Valley need to look no further than the Museum of Fine Arts. Highlights of the art museum, which is set against the backdrop of the bishop’s former palace, include fine Italian paintings and two paintings by Andrea Mantegna.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Tours is the park of Prébendes d’Oé, which is a beautiful green space that is centred around a central lake teeming with ducks. When the weather is warm, it’s a great spot to people watch and sit on a bench in the sunshine.

If you happen to be visiting Tours in the summertime, then one of the best places to soak up some summer sunshine is at Guinguette Tours (official name Guinguette de Tours sur Loire), which is an open-air terrace along the banks of the River Loire from the late Spring to early Autumn.

It may surprise many, but Tours is actually a fantastic place to enjoy gorgeous cherry blossoms during the springtime. The best places to enjoy cherry blossom in Tours is along rue Constantine, on the adjacent rue du commerce, and around the train station.

Please note that the pink cherry blossom around the train station is slightly later blooming than that in the centre of town, which tends to bloom in the last couple of weeks of March. If you visit during the last week of March then you will be sure to see at least a few trees in bloom!

One of the more unusual shopping experiences to have in Tours is to head to the wizarding store along  Rue du Commerce. Head in at any given moment and you’ll soon find a wide selection of magical collectibles and clothing inspired by the Harry Potter series.

Set against the backdrop of a former abbey dedicated to Saint-Julien, yet another museum in Tours which is worth checking out is the Musée du Compagnonnage, which is all about trade-guild history.

One of the most famous rivers in France is the Loire, and this is what gives the area its name. As well as being the 171st longest river in the world, the Loire is the longest river in France and the 3rd longest in Europe.

One of the most gentle and relaxing ways to get a different view of the Loire Valley is by taking a boat ride along the River Loire. One agency that proposes tours down the river in a flat-bottomed wooden river boat is the Boutavant Association. Find more details here.

If you’re looking for a unique hidden gem of Tours that’s a little off the beaten path, then you can head to the flood level marker that lies along the banks of the River Loire. The marker details all recent flooding levels, as well as more historic ones.

The very beating heart of Tours is Place Plumereau, which is a big open square with sprawling cafés, restaurants, and eateries. While the brasseries on the square are not of the best quality, it’s one of the best spots in the city to grab a drink and people watch when the sun is shining.

One of the more historic buildings you’ll see when wandering around town is the Charlemagne Tower. This is known as the tower of Charles the Great in English and is now all that remains of the original Basilica of St. Martin of Tours. Local legend suggests that it was in this basilica or close by that Charlemagne interred his wife.

Known as the Tour de l’Horloge in French, the clock tower is situated in the vieux-ville portion of Tours and dates back to the 11th-century, though much of what you see today was added in the 16th-century.

Tours Cathedral is not the only important ecclesiastical building in Tours. There is also the Basilica of Saint Martin (known as the Basilique Saint Martin in French) which was constructed to replace an earlier one of which the Charlemagne Tower is the only remaining remnant. Today, a visit to the interior of Basilica is free and open every day of the week.

Visitors who frequent the ancient settlement during the winter will soon discover the Tours Christmas Market, which takes place on an annual basis. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our Tours Christmas Market guide .

Tours is the gateway city to the Loire Valley, making it a great place to base yourself from which to explore the wider region. One of the most delightful towns near Tours is Amboise, which is where there’s a wonderful château and medieval town.

Of course, history buffs will be well aware that the Loire Valley is best-known for its amazing Châteaux. Some of the most famous Châteaux in the region are Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.

The easiest way to get to the Loire Valley Châteaux is by car as many of the castles are not served by public transport. Alternatively, if you want all of the transportation details taken care of for you, then you can book a guided tour like this one.

Where to eat 

In the French countryside outside of Paris, it can be hard to find vegetarian options and any vegan offerings are even harder to find still. One particular favourite of mine when it comes to somewhat healthy fast food in Tours is Boll n Roll, where there are several meat-free options on the menu.

Thanks to its fairly large size and popularity, there are a number of different places to stay in Tours to suit almost any budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to stay in Tours based on web-reviews and location:

Budget: One of the most affordable and yet cosy places to stay in Tours is The People. This chic hostel offers private rooms as well as mixed-gender and female-only dorms. There’s a bar onsite with a terrace. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: Those in search of an affordable luxury option when it comes to staying in Tours can check out this cosy little hotel. Amenities include air conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fairly central location. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury: For the ultimate luxury experience during your time in Tours, consider booking yourself a stay at this four-star hotel. Highlights include a pool and spa, as well as a fitness centre. Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Tours? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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Tours City in France: A Complete Travel Guide

Published by roslin dwivedi on july 14, 2020 july 14, 2020.

Last Updated on June 7, 2024 by Roslin Dwivedi

Tours is a charming city in France that offers a delightful mix of historical charm, cultural richness, culinary delights and natural beauty. It’s a perfect French experience destination.

Right from its history to its present beauty, the city of Tours (France) has so much to offer. Tours history, dating back to Roman times. The city played a significant role during the medieval period and the Renaissance.

Cathedral of Saint Gatien is a masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows and impressive architecture.

The old town, with its half-timbered houses and narrow streets are a charming peek into medieval life.

Tours is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. Musee des Beaux-Art houses an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures. Where as, Château de Tours, a historic castle that hosts various exhibitions and cultural events.

Tours often called the “Garden of France,” renowned for its food and wine, the city offers traditional French dishes, markets, and fine dining. Loire Valley’s Vouvray and Chinon wines are some of the best in the world, so don’t loose the chance to taste them.

Tours is ideally located in the centre of Loire Valley and a gateway to explore the chateaux de Loire Valley. The Loire Valley offers scenic cycling routes and river activities such as boating and kayaking.

Major universities makes Tours a youthful and dynamic city. Having a great connectivity by train and road, makes it easily accessible. TGV , High-speed trains connect Tours to Paris in about an hour, that’s a great opportunity for a convenient day trip or a longer stay.

The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

Tours sur Loire , featuring concerts, entertainment, and activities along the banks of the Loire River.

Christmas Market : A festive holiday market that attracts visitors with its charming stalls and holiday cheer.

On our Tours city exploration something amazing happened, As we walked and admired the city we stumbled upon a crowded place. Our luck brought us to this grandeur wine tasting festival , called Viti Loire in Tours, France. We didn’t get a chance to go for one of those wine tasting tours on our Paris trip and here we were enjoying the local wines from Loire region.

finally, Tours and its surroundings are known for their picturesque landscapes.

And these are the reasons why you should visit the city of Tours in France.

This blog contains affiliate links. Here’s my   Disclaimer.

Things to do in Tours, France in one day

Jardin de la préfecture.

The festival was held in the Jardin de la Préfecture (in easy words Préfecture Garden). Opposite the train station. A beautiful, elegant garden with plane trees, chestnut trees, and a small lake. Also has a statue of writer Anatole France. You can spend some time over here if you like to see the Gardens.

The city of Tours is not huge, but you can walk and visit the place. Because we had a baby, we decided to go directly to these tourist attractions and have a look. 

Cathédrale Saint-Gatien

In our search for Tours attractions, we found a Church. It is called Cathedral: St Gatien de Tours. Built between 1170 to 1547 (when it was completed). The cathedral was established to honour the first canonized bishop of Tours, Saint Gatien. The outside of the cathedral is as remarkable as the interior, with its Gothic windows, facade with Renaissance pinnacles and flying buttresses. The architecture is imposing. The cathedral has been a classified monument Historique (a national heritage site) since 1862.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

Near to the cathedral you can visit the museum. The former archbishop’s palace is now an art museum. It exhibits magnificent collections. We couldn’t visit inside of the museum, it was late by the time we reached over there. But definitely, a beautiful place to see some terrific arts from renowned artists from their times and history of tours. 

Château de Tours

The Château de Tours was the residence of the Lords of France. Built-in the 11th century, the castle featured an architecture of the  Carolingian   period. The Royal Castle of Tours used as an aquarium where about 1,500 fish of 200 different species could be seen. It also served as Grévin museum. We saw the castle from outside. As it was closed by the time we reached. You can also have a glimpse of it from the road. 

Pont de Fil or Pont de Saint Symphorien

Pont de Fil or Pont de Saint Symphorien is a calm pedestrian and bike bridge on the river Loire. We reached this bridge while evening stroll, which provided a picturesque view of the river, bridge and town.

Rue Colbert street

Rue Colbert street full of gastronomy. Being a foodie, I wanted to taste and try in all the restaurants, but my husband’s choice won, and we ate Indian food. The restaurant Le Palais du Rajah (Rajasthan) is probably good for the people living in Tours or other foreigners. Indian restaurants out of India, prepare Indian food extra spicy as soon as they see Indian customers. 

We met a fantastic local old couple, and we had a lovely talk over dinner. I love meeting local people and talking to them to know their life at the place. I suggest you have at least one dinner over here. The location offers diverse cuisine and is buoyant in dusks.

Place Plumereau

Not far from Rue Colbert you can walk up to the Place Plumereau, another sparkling and cheerful medieval place in Vieux Tours. Where you can find half-timbered houses. This is an old town of Tours, and it’s impressive to see how they have kept it preserved.

On our half-day of Tours visit, we loved the place. And won’t mind going back. Who knows we may end up making a plan only to see the Viti Loire festival, but this time with a foolproof plan to absorb the most juice out of it. We will eat in one of the restaurants at Rue Colbert street again, probably the first one in the row. Where they were serving an enormous round platter with different food in a bowl. I wonder what those dishes would be. It would be lovely strolling at the nightfall at Place Plumereau and enjoy the nightlife a bit more.

Viti Loire Festival at the city of Tours (France)

The scene at the festival was so cheerful. People chatting and laughing with a glass of wine, some were in the action, pouring the wine to their friends and family, everyone tasting the unique wines, local made wines and some talking to the booth owners about their wines, gathering all sorts of informations.

Extended scenes were the picnic tables covered by people that were arranged around the trees and many standing at the stall enjoying some local food tasting. There were cooking demonstrations by local chefs, on how to make classic French dessert.

Exciting, isn’t it? The atmosphere so festive that no one wants to leave. We loved that and stayed to enjoy it until the place started getting slow. and people left with crates of local wines they bought from the festival.

Viti Loire wine festival is an open-air exhibition for the local wineries of the region, an opportunity to taste authentic regional food with some top chefs from the Loire region. This festival gives you a glimpse of the heritage and culture of the area. You can look for this festival, happening every year in May over here.

Approximately 150 plus winegrowers and professionals participate in this festival. Viti Loire wine festival is visited by approximately 35,000 visitors every year (Figure facts from Vitiloire website). How lucky is that? This was a great surprise for us. We only had to pay 6 Euros each for the entry ticket in Vita Loire Festival. They provided us with a list of the local wine stalls participanted and a glass printed Viti Loire on it to taste the wines and buy it if you like. We saw many people left with crates full of wines. And yearned to the fact that we couldn’t travel back to Seychelles with a wine full crates.

With this incident, I learnt we need to look for the festivals and exhibitions around the town prior to our visit.

However, we planned to visit the Loire valley the next day. A unique place to spend a day or two traversing all the french castles.

You can read about the adventure here :   Travel tips for Loire Valley  and our  one day trip to Loire Valley   .  

How to reach the city of Tours from Paris (France)

Tours is a centre of France and an easy drive to the Loire Valley chateaux. Tours is easily accessible from Paris. The city is around an hour away by train and about two hours by car. Train connections from Paris are numerous and quick. You can take the TGV (high-speed train) from Montparnasse train station in Paris direct to Tours. If you are travelling by a car from Paris, take the A10 motorway towards Bordeaux.

Where to stay in the city of Tours (France) 

Tours was our next stop after Paris, to visit Loire Valley the next day, as I mentioned earlier its a traditional gateway for Loire Valley.

The plan was to catch an early morning train to Paris to change and catch another train for Geneva from Paris.

We booked 2 nights in the  Novotel Hotel Tours centre Gare next to the railway station Gare de Tours came out to be a great decision.

The hotel is a convenient place for exploring the city of Tours as it’s in the city’s centre. 

Our room was not that big but spacious enough for 2 Adults and 1 child (baby). Though the crawling space for our 10 months old wasn’t sufficient, he always found some.

The room included a wall-mounted TV, a writing table and a chair, a 2 seater Sofa, a luggage rack attached with a side table and had tea/coffee set up and also a mini-fridge. Those paper cups were a let down, It felt strange as the hotel claims the 4-star category for itself. Not forgetting to mention the wall to wall, huge glass windows opened to a lovely city view.

We had a pleasant stay at the hotel except they don’t replenish your tea/coffee set up once it’s used for the day.

Good facts about hotel are:

• Their buffet breakfast buffet is basic but nice.
• The hotel has its own free car parking second reason to choose this hotel. Not many hotels in Europe provide free parking. And it can get expensive if you have to pay everywhere you go for parking. So be aware of this fact too while choosing the car option.

There are many budget hotels around the station . The town is small but offers many good hotels to stay in.

How to get around Tours and Loire Valley

Upon reaching the station of Tours we marched straight towards the Avis car rentals , to book the car. We found out that they did have any car available at the time. But later in the day they called us to inform about arranging one for us.

We rented the car mainly to drive around Loire valley the next day . We got Peugeot 208 for around 80 USD a day.

Other way to go to Loire Valley is to take the local train .

Near the hotel, there are many interesting cafes and restaurants. But unfortunately, most of the shops and restaurants were closed. We saw a Vietnamese restaurant open and rushed to find out they do serve Chinese, but this was authentic Chinese, not the ones most Indians like. Anyway having plain Chinese was better than starving.

We wandered to some narrow roads, small shops, around the banks of the river Loire and a bridge (Pont de Fil) over it.

Walking back to our car, we found a intriguing place , a street full of various restaurants offering a variety of cuisine. 

Tips to visit the city of Tours in France

Visiting Tours can be a delightful experience with the right planning. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

1.  Timing Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit : Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is also beautiful but can be busier with tourists.
• Festival Season : If you enjoy festivals, consider visiting during events like Tours sur Loire in the summer or the Christmas Market in December.
• Weekend Day Trip : While making plans for Tours, try to go on weekends so that you don’t have difficulty in getting parking. Most hotels in Tours have car parks in the hotel, so again no problem of paid parking.

2.  Accommodation

• Location : Stay in the old town area (Vieux Tours) for charming surroundings and proximity to major attractions. Alternatively, consider staying near the train station for convenience.
• Types of Accommodation : Tours offers luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and charming bed-and-breakfasts.

3.  Transportation

• Getting There : Tours is easily accessible by TGV (high-speed train) from Paris, taking about an hour. It’s also connected to other major French cities.
• Local Transport : The city has a good public transportation system, including buses and trams. Walking or renting a bicycle are great ways to explore the compact city center.
• Car Rental : Consider renting a car if you plan to explore the surrounding Loire Valley and its châteaux.

4.  Exploring the City

• Walking Tours : Join a walking tour to get an insightful overview of the city’s history and major sights.
• Key Attractions : Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Gatien, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the historic Plumereau Square with its medieval half-timbered houses.
• Markets : Visit the local markets such as the Halles de Tours for fresh produce and regional specialties.

5.  Day Trips

• Châteaux Tours : Use Tours as a base to visit nearby Loire Valley châteaux such as Château de Chenonceau, Château de Chambord, and Château de Villandry.
• Wine Tours : Take a wine tour to nearby vineyards to sample local wines like Vouvray and Chinon.

6.  Dining and Cuisine

• Local Specialties : Try local dishes such as rillettes (a type of pâté), goat cheese from Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, and Tarte Tatin (a caramelized apple tart).
• Wine : Pair your meals with local wines from the Loire Valley, renowned for their quality and variety.
• Dining Options : From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros, Tours offers a diverse dining scene. Check out the restaurants in Place Plumereau for a vibrant atmosphere.

7.  Practical Tips

• Language : While French is the primary language, many people in the tourism industry speak English. Learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
• Currency : France uses the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for small purchases and market shopping.
• Safety : Tours is generally safe, but like any city, stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

8.  Cultural Etiquette

• Greetings : Greet people with a polite “Bonjour” (Good day) or “Bonsoir” (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.
• Tipping : Service is typically included in restaurant bills, but leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

9.  Stay Connected

• Wi-Fi : Many hotels, cafes, and public places offer free Wi-Fi. Consider getting a local SIM card if you need constant internet access.
• Tourist Information : Visit the local tourist office for maps, brochures, and additional information on current events and attractions.

By planning ahead and following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything Tours and Loire Valley have to offer.

Do save this for later!

Roslin Dwivedi

Hi! I am Roslin, a travel blogger. I am a gastronomist, an excursionist and love to learn about a different culture. Apart from travel updates, you will find some aha moments and life learnings in my blog. My writing recipe includes a little bit of humour only to see you smiling. You can find me on my website, Facebook and Instagram as Travelnlifewithroaz.

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Buenos días.Soy de Puerto Rico y a finales del mes de diciembre tuve la oportunidad de realizar un viaje a  Canadá específicamente a Montreal y Quebec. Siempre he creído, y confirmado en todos mis viajes, que por mejor que sea el destino quién hace del viaje uno inolvidable es la responsabilidad del operador y la dinámica del guía. Este viaje que realicé  ha sido uno de los mejores gracias a la mejor guía que he tenido que fue JOëlle. Su conocimiento, su manera de integrarse al grupo, sus deseos de que lo pasaramos bien sin contratiempos, su familiaridad, el uso de la tecnología le dieron un toque especial y maravilloso al viaje. Me pareció que la conocíamos de años. Entiendo que este fue el sentir del grupo. Quiero también hacer constar del excelente chofer cuyo nombre no recuerdo quien siempre estuvo dispuesto a ayudarnos.

Muchas gracias por un viaje que siempre será recordado. Reciban mis deseos de éxito en su gestión empresarial.

Estimados. He formado parte del Grupo proveniente de Córdoba _ Argentina del Operador Mayorista Jazz, a cargo del Sr. Sergio García Crespo para todo el trayecto. Quiero expresar mi satisfacción por el Circuito y destacar la conducción de Sergio, con un conocimiento de historia y descripción de los lugares, admirable. Unido todo eso a la dosis de humor en anécdotas y narraciones. Con capacidad para transmitir seguridad y confianza al numeroso grupo que le tocó conducir. Siempre de buen humor, y bien predispuesto.

Entre los días 20 y 31 de agosto de 2019 realizamos el circuito “Maravillas del oeste”. Resultó una experiencia enriquecedora. Los servicios de la empresa fueron cumplidos con alto nivel. En ese sentido debo destacar el desempeño de nuestro guía Gonzalo Prado y Jesús como excelente operador del ómnibus. Gonzalo colmó nuestras expectativas por su eficiencia, conocimientos, dedicación y humanidad en el trato.

Estimados señores: Por medio de la presente, queremos manifestarles nuestra gran satisfacción por la excursión realizada a Boston, el día 21 del corriente.Tanto el guía a cargo Sr. Fernando Vela, como así también el conductor del vehículo, han logrado con su cordialidad y su preparación una excelente jornada, que permitió informarnos de un montón de conocimientos. Sin otro particular, aprovechamos para saludarlos a ustedes muy cordialmente.

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LPGA Tour: Jeeno Thitikul builds Kroger Queen City Championship lead with Lydia Ko in pursuit and Charley Hull adrift

Jeeno Thitikul holds a two-shot lead over Lydia Ko at the Kroger Queen City Championship after third round; world No 1 Nelly Korda now six shots off the lead, while England's Charley Hull remains eight shots back; watch live on Sunday from 6pm on Sky Sports Golf

Saturday 21 September 2024 22:26, UK

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Jeeno Thitikul extended her lead with a four-under par 68, going ahead by two strokes on 16 under with a round to play at the Kroger Queen City Championship, while England's Charley Hull remains eight shots back. 

Thitikul, a former world No 1 who entered the day nursing a one-stroke lead, is seeking her first individual LPGA win in two years.

On a warm sunny day, the 21-year-old from Thailand started her day hot with birdies on two of her first three holes - the first and third - and sprinkled in birdies on the eighth, 11th and 15th before eventually suffering bogeys on back-to-back holes on 16 and 17.

She closed her day with a rally to grab a birdie on the par-five 18th, shaking off the challenge of the heat.

• Kroger Queen City Championship leaderboard [external]
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Still at the top is @jeeno_atthaya 😮‍💨 She heads into Champ Sunday with a two shot lead 💪 FULL LEADERBOARD ⬇️ https://t.co/VJZYSjGPcF — LPGA (@LPGA) September 21, 2024

"I think stay(ing) hydrated is the most important here," Thitikul said. "And then you can see all the umbrella, which is the sun - it's really killing us this week.

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"But it's good. It's good. I like it more than the cold weather."

New Zealand's Lydia Ko, who Thitikul paired with, remains her closest pursuer at 14 under after her three-under 69.

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Ko's round was steady after a bogey to open on the first. From there, she scored birdies on the eighth, 10th, 14th and 18th.

Ko, who won Olympic gold and the AIG Women's Open over the summer, also recently clinched enough career points to be inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame.

China's Yan Liu fired a four-under 68 to take third place after three rounds. Her day ran the gamut, including a double bogey on the third and an eagle on the 11th. She balanced an additional bogey with five birdies.

South Korea's Haeran Ryu (70) and Switzerland's Albane Valenzuela (68) round out the top five at 12 under after 54 holes.

"I think here there is a lot of birdie opportunities and girls go low, so I'm just trying to make as many as I can," Valenzuela said. "If it's one, if it's 10, like who knows? It's golf. You can't control the variables. All I can do is really stick to my process, my routine, and try my best."

Five golfers are tied for sixth five shots behind the leader: Lindy Duncan (68), South Korea's Hyo Joon Jang (67), Australia's Stephanie Kyriacou (69), Thailand's Jasmine Suwannapura (69) and the Philippines' Bianca Pagdanganan (69).

World No 1 Nelly Korda sits six shots off the lead on 10 under.

Hull is tied for 23rd on eight under after a four-under 68.

Who will win the Kroger Queen City Championship? Watch throughout the weekend live on Sky Sports. Live coverage continues Sunday from 6pm on Sky Sports Golf. Stream the DP World Tour, PGA Tour, LPGA Tour and more with NOW .

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Stevie Wonder announces Milwaukee show, part of 10-city tour hitting battleground states

L egendary 25-time Grammy winner Stevie Wonder has announced a rare 10-date tour for next month — and Milwaukee is one of the stops.

Wonder, 74, will be at Fiserv Forum on Oct. 24, the Milwaukee Bucks arena announced Thursday, for what's being called the "Sing Your Song! As We Fix Our Nation's Broken Heart" tour.

The tour takes its name from Wonder's new single, "Can We Fix Our Nation's Broken Heart," and according to a press release, is timed to take place "at the height of a critical election season and a pivotal juncture in American politics and culture."

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In a statement, Wonder suggested the concerts will be a call for "joy over anger, kindness over recrimination, peace over war." Several of the stops are in battleground states — kicking off in Pittsburgh Oct. 8, and wrapping up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Oct. 30. Other stops include Philadelphia, Atlanta, Detroit, Greensboro, North Carolina, and also New York, Baltimore and Minneapolis.

In a press release, Wonder announced that some complimentary tickets will be issued to people "who are already working tirelessly to fix our nation's broken heart." The tour follows Wonder's performance at the United Center in Chicago during the Democratic National Convention last month.

This will be Wonder's first concert in Milwaukee in nine years. His last show in town, a headlining appearance at Summerfest, made the Journal Sentinel's best concerts of the year list in 2015.

Tickets for the Milwaukee concert go on sale at noon Friday at the box office (1111 N. Phillips Ave.) and fiservforum.com . Prices have yet to be announced.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Stevie Wonder announces Milwaukee show, part of 10-city tour hitting battleground states

Music and Concerts | Stevie Wonder’s 10-city Sing Your Song! Tour to…

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Music and concerts | stevie wonder’s 10-city, politically-charged sing your song tour to hit msg.

Kicking off Oct. 8, the tour will play Madison Square Garden on Oct. 10 before visiting major cities in battleground states including Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, Michigan and Wisconsin. The tour concludes Oct. 30 in Grand Rapids.

Tickets went on sale Friday at noon .

According to the announcement, the tour is a call for “joy over anger, kindness over recrimination, peace over war.”

As a “special thank you,” the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer will be offering a designated amount of complimentary tickets “to those in our communities who are already working tirelessly to fix our nation’s broken heart.”

Wonder released “Can We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart” on Aug. 30, following his rousing performance at the 2024 Democratic National Convention on Aug. 21.

“Now is the moment to understand where we are and what it will take to win: win the broken hearts, win the disenchanted, win the angry spirits — now is the time,” the 74-year-old told the massive crowd at Chicago’s United Center .

“This is the moment to remember when you tell your children where you were and what you did … We must choose courage over complacency. It is time to get up and go vote!” he said before launching into his 1973 classic “Higher Ground.”

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MLB's travel plans for '24: Seoul, Mexico City, London, D.R.

David Adler

The MLB World Tour is coming to four international destinations in 2024: London, Mexico City, Seoul and Santo Domingo. 

The Seoul Series will be the opener of the 2024 MLB regular season -- and will mark the first MLB regular-season games ever played in Korea. 

Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association announced the full plans for the four series on Wednesday.

• Seoul Series: Dodgers vs. Padres, March 20-21 (MLB season opener) • Mexico City Series: Astros vs. Rockies, April 27-28 • London Series: Mets vs. Phillies, June 8-9 • Dominican Republic Series: Red Sox vs. Rays, March 9-10 (Spring Training)

• MLB international

"Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024," Commissioner Rob Manfred said. "Our recent efforts have produced strong enthusiasm around the globe, and we look forward to building on that foundation with returns to Mexico City and London, while also opening the season in Korea for the first time. In addition, we can’t wait to celebrate the tradition of the sport in the Dominican Republic with our visit to Santo Domingo next March. We are thrilled that our fans across four different countries outside the United States and Canada will have the opportunity to see the game’s stars."

The MLB World Tour schedule for next year includes the return of games to the United Kingdom and Mexico for a second consecutive season, after the 2023 London Series between the Cubs and Cardinals and Mexico City Series between the Giants and Padres, in addition to new stops in Korea and the Dominican Republic.

“Players have a deep interest in growing baseball around the world. No matter where they come from, players are linked by a passion for our game that transcends different languages, cultures, and nationalities,” said Tony Clark, the executive director of the MLB Players Association. “The series announced today will allow fans around the globe to gain a first-hand appreciation for the unmatched skill and infectious enthusiasm players display every time they go to work. We are excited to expand our international presence in new communities and celebrate the game we all love.”

Here's a look at each of the four international series in 2024.

Seoul Series

The Dodgers and Padres will open up the 2024 season with two games in Korea from March 20-21.  

The Seoul Series will mark the ninth time that the MLB season has opened outside the 50 U.S. states and Canada, and the first time in five years. Previous international openers include:

• 1999 -- Monterrey, Mexico (Rockies vs. Padres) • 2000 -- Tokyo, Japan (Mets vs. Cubs) • 2001 -- San Juan, Puerto Rico (Rangers vs. Blue Jays) • 2004 -- Tokyo, Japan (Rays vs. Yankees) • 2008 -- Tokyo, Japan (Red Sox vs. A's) • 2012 -- Tokyo, Japan (A's vs. Mariners) • 2014 -- Sydney, Australia (Dodgers vs. D-backs) • 2019 -- Tokyo, Japan (A's vs. Mariners)

It will be the Dodgers' first international games since they played the Padres in Mexico in 2018, and their second Opening Day abroad after the 2014 season opener in Australia.

"The Dodgers have a long and proud history of helping to grow the game abroad, highlighted by our trips to Mexico, China and Australia. It's very exciting to add Korea to the list," Dodgers president Stan Kasten said. "I know our players are thrilled to put their talents on display in a country so rich with baseball tradition and talent, including former Dodgers Chan Ho Park, Hee-Seop Choi and Hyun Jin Ryu."

The Padres will be playing internationally for a second straight season, but in a new country, going from the 2023 Mexico City Series to the 2024 Seoul Series. Like the Dodgers, they've also played abroad on Opening Day before, in the inaugural international season opener back in 1999. 

"Korea is a great baseball country with a rich tradition, passionate fans, and talented players, including current Padre and San Diego fan favorite Ha-Seong Kim," Padres CEO Erik Greupner said. "The Padres are proud to serve alongside the Dodgers as global ambassadors for the game of baseball with our historic 2024 Korea Series."

Mexico City Series

The second Mexico City Series will feature the Astros and Rockies for a pair of games on April 27 and 28, almost exactly a year after this season's inaugural Mexico City Series.

Both Houston and Colorado last played internationally in Mexico, but in Monterrey, not Mexico City. The Astros played two regular-season games against the Angels there in 2019, and the Rockies played an exhibition series against the D-backs that same year.  

The Astros have played exhibition games in Mexico City before, in 2016 against the Padres and 2004 against the Marlins.

• 2023 Mexico City Series

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London Series

The London Series returns for its third edition overall, with the Mets and Phillies facing off at London Stadium on June 8 and 9.

The Mets will be playing abroad for the first time since 2010, when they faced the Marlins in Puerto Rico. But they're no stranger to international games, having participated in both MLB's first-ever international regular season games in 1996 in Mexico and MLB's first-ever regular-season games in Japan in 2000.

• 2024 London Series will feature NL East rivalry in Mets-Phils

"Interest in baseball is growing all over the world, and to bring the Mets' 'never-say-die' attitude to sports fans in London is a tremendous honor," Mets owner Steve Cohen said. "Our Queens family is ready to show London a great time with exciting baseball and amazing experiences that create new fans and build the Mets community throughout the United Kingdom." 

The Phillies have never played regular-season games internationally, and have left the U.S. and Canada only once, over 50 years ago, for a pair of exhibition games against the Pirates in San Juan in 1977.

"Major League Baseball has done an excellent job of expanding its footprint internationally, and we are honored to play a role in that effort as part of the 2024 London Series," Phillies managing partner John Middleton said. "This will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase our players' talents and highlight the excitement that comes with a Phillies-Mets matchup for our fans in the UK and for those who have never attended a baseball game."

Dominican Republic Series

In addition to the three international regular-season series planned for in 2024, the Red Sox and Rays will play a Spring Training series in Santo Domingo at Estadio Quisqueya from March 9-10.

"This unique opportunity builds on our long-standing connection to the Dominican Republic and allows us to celebrate the remarkable talents and rich cultural heritage of a country whose passion for the game has distinctly shaped our organization," Red Sox president Sam Kennedy said. "From the players who have passed through our Dominican Republic Academy to those who have helped us win championships, we have been fortunate to witness the profound impact of Dominican players within our game, and we are thrilled to be able to bring Red Sox baseball to such a vibrant baseball community next year."

Exhibition games are also a key part of the MLB World Tour, which includes up to 16 exhibition games being played internationally between 2023 and ‘26, as well as up to 24 regular-season games spanning Asia, Europe and Latin America.

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Sep 22, 2024 | 7:59 AM EDT

The Gold Over America Tour train is gaining momentum, and its next stop is just on the horizon. The GOAT has left California and will be halting in Salt Lake City, Utah, this Monday (23rd September). With 7-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles leading the way, fans are once again expecting high-flying action to take over the iconic Maverik Center. The tour has garnered significant attention within the USA’s gymnastics community, especially with its return after a three-year hiatus.

Given the iconic status of the venue, it’s safe to say that the GOAT experience will be significantly elevated by all the Maverik Center has to offer. But what exactly makes the West Valley City stadium so coveted?

History of Maverik Center

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Originally known as the E Center, the arena hosted its first event in 1997. Built with a unique theater-style configuration, the Maverik Center can accommodate up to 12,000 fans, ensuring an intimate experience for all. Its design makes it the perfect venue for the Gold Over America Tour, where the nation’s most popular gymnastics stars are set to deliver a show of a lifetime for their fans.

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Simone Biles' Gold Over America Tour is taking Salt Lake City by storm! React!

Designed by renowned architect Populous, the arena boasts a cauldron-like shape in the gates of its parking lot, inspiring attendees to “ Light the Fire Within. ” Home to the ECHL’s Utah Grizzlies, the Maverik Center has earned its place as one of the most prestigious ice hockey venues in the USA. It famously hosted the ice hockey matches during the 2002 Winter Olympics, where the victorious Canadian men’s team secured the top spot on the podium. As part of their triumphant journey, the team left behind a memento, ensuring that Ed Belfour & Co. would remain immortalized in the halls of the Maverik Center.

Preserved behind a thin layer of plexiglass, the autographs of the dozen Canadian gold medalists proudly greet visitors, reinforcing the venue’s elite reputation. Grizzlies Vice President Jared Youngman considers them an integral part of ice hockey history and frequently expresses his deep admiration for their significance. “ It was breathtaking to realize and know that a piece of the Olympics stayed. It’s cool to say we’re the home of the 2002 Winter Olympics, of the hockey championship games, and a lot of the games that mattered, ” the lifelong hockey fan told ABC4 in an interview in 2021.

Over its more than two decades of existence, the Maverik Center has become a premier choice for many organizers to entertain fans of all ages and backgrounds. But what sets the bar so high for Biles and her squad as they prepare to bring their A-game to the arena?

Major events held at this venue

If you live in Salt Lake City, there’s certainly no shortage of things to keep you going back to the West Valley City-owned indoor stadium. From nationally broadcasted mega shows like WWE Smackdown Live, WWE Monday Night RAW Live, and Holiday Festival on Ice to family shows like Bob the Builder, Dragon Tales Live, and Arenacross have been filmed at this very location. If these weren’t enough famous musicians and music-themed shows have also mesmerized fans with their tunes from time to time.

From the iconic Pink Floyd and Elton John to generational favorites like Linkin Park and TOOL, and even American Idol episodes, the walls of the Maverik Center have certainly been witness to the binding magic of music. Serving as a venue for the 2002 Winter Games further reiterates its national significance, as it also hosted the 2002 Winter Paralympics’ ice sledge hockey. That’s a pretty high standard to live up to, right? But the GOAT squad isn’t coming in light either. With Simone Biles leading the charge, the Gold Over America Tour promises to deliver a performance worthy of this prestigious venue.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 25: Simone Biles performs during the Gold Over America Tour at Staples Center on September 25, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

Along with Biles, Olympians Jade Carey, Brody Malone, and Joscelyn Roberson will give fans plenty to cheer for this Tuesday. The excitement doesn’t stop there—Stanford Cardinals’ Ian Gunther and Canadian gymnast Peng-Peng Lee are set to amp up the thrill even more. Plus, Simone’s BFF, Jordan Chiles, is another enticing name on the roster. You definitely won’t want to miss her in action as she looks to move past her own Olympic challenges. So, who will you be most excited to see when the Gold Over America Tour hits its fifth stop in just two days?

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Dil-Luminati Tour Update: Diljit Dosanjh Adds New Show In Delhi, Includes Jaipur And Mumbai To The List

Diljit dosanjh is currently impressing his fans in europe.

Are you one of Diljit Dosanjh 's fans who could not get a ticket for the Dil-luminati Tour? Well, we have exciting news — the singer has added another show in Delhi. Not only that, but he has also extended the India leg of his tour to include Mumbai and Jaipur. How do we know? The star himself announced it through a post on Instagram. Currently in Paris for the Europe phase of his tour, Diljit shared a set of images posing inside The Peninsula Paris. He also included a few shots from the Cartier store in his album. In his caption, Diljit wrote, “SURPRISE  DELHI DAY 2 Stadium  - JAIPUR & MUMBAI New Shows Added Tickets Info Coming SOON DIL-LUMINATI TOUR Year 24”

Reacting to the post. American rapper Saweetie, who collaborated with Diljit Dosanjh for his song Khutti, said, “Richtivities.”

Check out the post below:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)

Diljit Dosanjh's India tour will start in Delhi on October 26, followed by Hyderabad on November 15, Ahmedabad on November 17 and Lucknow on November 22. It will then continue in Pune on November 24, Kolkata on November 30 and Bengaluru on December 6. After Indore on December 8 and Chandigarh on December 14, the tour will conclude in Guwahati on December 29.

Presales for the India leg of the Dil-luminati Tour started earlier this month, and tickets sold out in just two minutes. HDFC Pixel Credit Card holders got exclusive access to buy tickets 48 hours before the general public, with an extra 10 percent off on early bird tickets. All the discounted tickets were gone in two minutes, as per Hindustan Times . Click here to read more.

Diljit Dosanjh is currently impressing his fans in Europe. His concerts are scheduled until October 2. From Paris to England, Ireland, and the Netherlands, fans in multiple locations are experiencing his energetic performances. Click here to learn more about the Europe leg of the Dil-luminati Tour.

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