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

• December 26, 2023

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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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, 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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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 .

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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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Tours Cathedral

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Bustling Tours is a smart and vivacious city, with an impressive medieval quarter, fine museums, well-tended parks and a university of some 30,000 students. Combining the sophisticated style of Paris with the conservative sturdiness of central France, Tours makes an ideal staging post for exploring the castles of the Touraine.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Tours. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Musée du Compagnonnage

This extraordinary museum – an absolute gem! – spotlights France's renowned compagnonnages, guild organisations of skilled craftspeople who have created…

Musée des Beaux-Arts

This superb fine-arts museum, in a gorgeous 18th-century archbishop’s palace, features paintings, sculpture, furniture and objets d'art from the 14th to…

Cathédrale St-Gatien

With its flying buttresses, gargoyles and twin Renaissance-style towers (70m) – and, inside, Gothic vaulting, dazzling stained glass and huge baroque…

Jardin Botanique

Founded in 1843, Tours' delightful 5-hectare botanical gardens have a tropical greenhouse, a medicinal herb garden, a small zoo and children's playgrounds…

Hôtel Gouïn

Hidden behind an Italianate façade, this gorgeous early-Renaissance residence – visible through a stone gate – was built for a wealthy merchant around…

Basilique St-Martin

In the Middle Ages, Tours was an important pilgrimage city thanks to the relics of soldier-turned-evangelist St Martin (c 317–97). In the 5th century a…

Cloître de la Psalette

This cloister, built from 1442 to 1524 – that's why it's partly Flamboyant Gothic and party Renaissance – is located on the north side of the Cathédrale…

Hôtel de Ville

Built from 1896 to 1904, Tours' monumental city hall was designed to project both republican values and municipal prestige.

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10 Reasons to Visit Tours, the Gateway to the Loire Valley

The gateway to the Loire Valley , Tours is far more than a mere stopover on the châteaux trail . With a flurry of world-class attractions and a dreamy Old Town to boot, it is a right dazzler.

VIEUX TOURS

A maze of cobbled streets trimmed with half-timbered homes and imposing hôtels particuliers , Tours’s Old Town is a veritable time capsule. Its beating heart is without doubt the bustling Place Plumereau – hands down the best spot in town for people-watching. Make like a local and treat yourself to an apéro at one of the terraces lining the historic market square.

CULTURE A GOGO

What it may lack in size, Tours more than makes up for in museums and contemporary art galleries. Pressed for time? Make a beeline for the city’s holy trinity: the Centre de Création Contemporaine Olivier Debré, the Château de Tours and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

Nicknamed the “Jardin de France”, the Touraine region is dotted with remarkable parks and manicured gardens – and Tours is no exception. While away an afternoon in the peaceful fold of the Jardin des Prébendes, or take a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens – a 6ha green oasis in the heart of the city. And don’t miss the staggering 30m cedar tree beckoning holidaymakers to the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

CITY OF LIGHT

Tourangeaux are suckers for a good light show – so much so that they set the cityscape aglow nightly. With radiant illuminations rippling across the Old Town’s key attractions and iconic façades, it’s a brilliant way to uncover its historic gems.

Basilique St Martin. Photo: Anaïs Dutour

SAINT-MARTIN BASILICA

Vieux Tours’s centrepiece, the Basilica Saint-Martin, is sure to turns heads. Built on the tomb of Saint-Martin, between 1886 and 1924, by Victor Laloux (of Musée d’Orsay fame), the Neo-Byzantine confection is a right dazzler and a popular pilgrim stopover. Cap off a visit with a climb of the nearby Tour Charlemagne, one of the last vestiges of the medieval basilica. The 300 steps are a killer but the breathtaking vista is worth the shattered glutes.

FOODIE HAVEN

Calling all gourmands: as one of a select few awarded the coveted Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie status, Tours is a foodie Mecca – one packed to the gills with traditional bistros, high-end restaurants and farmers’ markets.

With no fewer than ten appellations in Touraine alone, the Loire Valley is an oenophile’s paradise. And you can sample them all (and more) at one of Tours’s countless wine bars. White, red, rosé, even sparkling numbers, the capital of Touraine has something to tickle every palate.

VALLEY OF CHÂTEAUX

As the gateway to the Loire Valley’s château trail – and with no fewer than 50 royal residences and Renaissance piles within a 100km radius – Tours is the perfect base from which to discover Touraine’s listed gems. Best of all? The tourist office runs minibuses daily to the region’s showstoppers, including Chenonceau, Villandry and Amboise.

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

The best way to explore the UNESCO-listed Loire River is by hopping on a traditional flat-bottomed boat. Once used to transport goods, nowadays these babies ferry tourists across France’s longest fleuve , usually with a little aperitif and canapés thrown in. Top off a cruise with a spin at the guinguette (open-air bar-cum-dance hall) flanking the river bank by the Pont Wilson in summer.

HOP IN THE SADDLE

Why not hit the road – and the sights – à bicyclette ? Just the ticket for château- hoppers, the Loire à Velo, a 900km cycle trail slicing through the region, winds its way past the city and along the Loire, Cher and Indre rivers’ sparkling waters, taking in a flurry of attractions and monuments – not least the area’s finest Renaissance palaces – and sweeps of magical scenery.

For more information visit www.tours-tourisme.fr

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

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 13th March 2023

Categories France

Last Updated on 13th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

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 loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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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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Visit the Amazing City of Tours: Things to do in Tours, France

If you have been dreaming of touring Tours, then now is the time to make it a reality! Not only dynamic and captivatingly historic, but also an imperative stopover for anyone on the Route of Loire Valley Castle.

Table of Contents

Nestled in Val-de-Loire along both riverside shores of Loire and Cher Rivers, this town has about 135 thousand inhabitants including almost 30 thousands students! Its vibrant historical core serves as a perfect starting point for all tourists looking to explore its beauty.

Looking for things to do in Tours? Winalist takes you to discover the city and its surroundings in this guide selecting the best visits and activities. You will also find our tips on the best wine experiences in the Loire Valley and the Loire Valley wine route .

Things to do in Tours: Visit Tours in 1 day

Do you want to discover Tours, but only have one day to do so ? here are the Top places that we recommend you to see first.

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.

Several buildings have remarkable and very well preserved architecture, such as the Saint-Martin Basilica , the Cloister of Psalette , or the Museum of Fine Arts .

When visiting the city center of Tours, you will be delighted to discover an abundance of bars, restaurants and shops that come alive during summertime when their terraces are bustling.

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. It is also known as the “ Tours Ampitheater “. In the past, it was one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in the West.

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.

Once you have entered the Saint-Gatien cathedral, you will not miss the stained glass windows and its imposing rose window which adorn the walls, as well as its large organ made up of around 4000 pipes.

Walk along the banks of the Loire

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 5 kilometers (1h30), you 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.

Today this garden has several roles:

• ensure the safeguarding of rare and protected plants through their conservation
• coordinate scientific research work on the plants already present and those introduced into the park
• raise public awareness of species preservation
• provide a quiet place for locals and tourists

Visit the vineyards of the Val-de-Loire

With over 65 distinct appellations, the Loire Valley is renowned for its vineyards and iconic Castles.

Let Winalist guide you through 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.

Discover Maison Brédif in Rochecorbon

Founded in 1893, Maison Brédif and its wine-loving owner open their doors to you . In a few hours, you will discover how the different wines produced on the estate are made, and how they are kept in the 2 kilometers of cellars and underground galleries.

Private visits with Maison Brédif are one of the best things to do in Tours and are always accompanied by a tasting of 5 of the best wines from Maison Brédif (Chinon, Bourgueil or Saumur Champigny).

Among the themes of the various visits and tastings, you will have the choice between:

• The simple visit
• Visit with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie
• Taste wine directly in the troglodyte cellars, a magical place

See the details of the oenological experiences offered by Maison Brédif . Oneological experiences are some of the absolute best things to do in Tours, France.

What is the most beautiful castle to visit near Tours?

For one of the best things to do in Tours, you could visit the Château de Tours located in the center of the city. This is a Carolingian-style castle hosting exhibitions of contemporary and historical art.

But if you are rather looking to see one of the most beautiful castles of the Loire , we recommend that you go west from Tours to enter the magnificent Château de Villandry. This great Renaissance palace is notably surrounded by a famous park with a labyrinth: the famous gardens of Villandry.

What to do in Tours: The best activities

Here is a selection of ideal things to do in Tours during a stay with family or friends in this beautiful city:

• Museum of Fine Arts

Visit Segway Tours

• Take a day trip to the vineyards
• Take a wine rally in the heart of the vineyards

The Museum of Fine Arts in Tours

Located in Old Tours near the cathedral, in the former episcopal palace, the Museum of Fine Arts in Tours has an important collection of paintings including several masterpieces. There are Italian Renaissance galleries, French paintings from the 17th to 19th centuries, as well as Flemish and Dutch paintings by Rubens.

This museum also preserves statues and sculptures, some of which date back to antiquity.

Don’t feel like walking? Then you can go to the Tours Tourist Office to rent a segway! After a brief introduction, all you have to do is explore Vieux-Tours thanks to this original and ecological means of transport.

The tourist office offers day and night rides by segway, on the banks of the Loire or in the town centre. Count about 1h30 for each walk.

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.

Oeno-Rally in the heart of the vineyards

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore the wines of the Loire Valley, Ame-Wine is your go-to! They offer custom quizzes that will reveal all the secrets of local vineyards – one glass at a time.

Tour, France is a beautiful city full of history and culture. From its impressive gardens to its majestic châteaux, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Tour. Whether you’re looking for some historic sites, outdoor activities or a vibrant nightlife, Tour has something for everyone. With its array of cultural attractions and stunning architecture, the city is sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. Discover more about how to have the best time in Tours, France, with Winalist.

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Why Visit The City Of Tours in France?

Tours in France is described by the Lonely Planet as ‘a smart, solidly bourgeois kind of place’. I wasn’t entirely sure what the guide book meant but upon our arrival, it became clear. Around 200km east of Nantes, the city of Tours is filled with wide boulevards, picturesque piazzas and up-market shops. As soon as we saw the grand Hotel de Ville, we knew Tours was indeed a bourgeois kind of place.

For a city I’d never heard of previously, Tours provided a very pleasant stop-off on our travels from London to the Dordogne in southern France at the end of July. With the likes of Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux and Biarritz within reach, it’s a practical place to stay halfway down France for those travelling south. So, is Tours worth visiting? Find out what there is to do in Tours and how we spent our day in the city with two young children.

Click here to read about our France road trip itinerary to Provence

Where is Tours located?

Tours in France sits between the Loire and Cher rivers, in the province of Touraine. Known for its good food and purely spoken French language there’s good reason to linger in the area.

We travelled there in one day from west London. Getting the Eurotunnel from Folkestone at around 10am, we arrived in Tours for 5pm. That left us around 250 miles to cover the next day to reach our destination near Bergerac in southern France.

Tours’ place in  history

Originally a Gallic settlement, the Romans took over in the 1st century AD. An important figure in the city’s history was Saint Martin who was its bishop during the 4th century. Once a Roman solider, he chose to follow his religious path after seeing a vision of Christ. It followed an incident where he cut his cloak in half to share with a naked beggar. As a Roman soldier he would not have been encouraged to mingle with the locals. This act of Christian compassion has made him a popular figure.

His shrine put Tours on the route of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. It became a thriving centre during the Middle Ages. The battle of Tours – which took place just outside the city in 732 – is cited as a turning point in the Christian fight against the Moors. The French, under Charles Martel, were victorious and helped to preserve Christianity in Western Europe.

Things to do in Tours, France

We arrived in the city of Tours late afternoon and after dumping our bags at our Mecure hotel room, we, headed straight out. The magnificent Hôtel de Ville was one of the first sights which caught our eye. It stands opposite the (just as impressive) Palais de Justice. The fountains outside each of the buildings gave them an extra grandiose flair.

Of course there was a carousel – a pink one at that. My daughter was delighted.

There was also a big wheel there when we visited in July.

We fuelled up at a nearby brassiere and enjoyed the late evening sun.

The next morning we spent a couple of hours looking around Tours before embarking on the rest of our journey to southern France. Tours’ medieval centre and its half-timbered housing was the first area in our sights.

It was there we came across two contrasting sights. We encountered a ‘hole-in-the-wall pizza place (although resisted trying it out) alongside the ancient housing.

A few streets away is the Basilica of St Martin. It houses the relics of the famous Tours resident. Built in 1862, it replaced the original building which suffered heavy damage during the Wars of Revolution and French Revolution. Inside, there’s a small museum with artefacts from the original church

The only remaining building from the original St Martin church is the north tower, the Tour Charlemagne. It stands across the road from the new basilica and gives some idea of how big the original building would have been. Consecrated in 818, my daughter’s eyes opened wide when I explained that some of the building was over one thousand years old.

Tours Cathedral

Tours’ centre piece is its cathedral. I could have stared at its show-stopping Gothic facade for a long time. Dedicated to Saint Gatian, the first bishop of Tours, it is a mishmash of styles. The lower sections of the towers are from the 12th century (so are Romanesque) the tops are Renaissance while the rest is from the 15th century (Gothic).

It is no wonder a number of French monarchs are entombed within the cathedral. A fitting, regal resting place. We were very glad we made the time to visit.

With that, our short trip to Tours was over and we returned to our car and continued our journey to the Dordogne. A great stopover en route to southern France or northern Spain. Certainly, Tours in France is worth visiting.

Other sights to see in Tours

Tours is known as the ‘Garden of France’ due to its numerous open spaces. Its 19th century botanical garden has tropical greenhouses and a petting zoo. The Musee des Beaux-Arts has a number of high profile artist’s works such as Monet, Rubens and Rembrandt. Of course Tours is surrounded by vineyards . Take a wine tour out of Tours and taste what the Loire valley has to offer. If you want some more history (or a more family-friendly activity), the area is dotted with magnificent castles to explore.

Where to stay in Tours?

We stayed at the Mercury hotel close to the railway station which had an underground car park. Perfect for a road trip stop-off. It was well located close to shop and around a 10 minute walk to the main sights. It had a large room and it served us very well for our one night stay in Tours.

Click here to book your stay at the Mercury Hotel or look at other accommodation options in Tours .

Those are some of the things to do when visiting Tours. We visited as part of an  epic three week road trip around Provence .

You may also enjoy reading:

7 Reasons to visit Provence Road trip itinerary: 11 days in France and Italy One day in Troyes, France

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I've always loved to travel so when my two daughters came along, I didn't stop. Travelling as a family can have its ups and downs but I love showing my children the world and helping others navigate travelling with children in tow.

The Perfect Holiday, By A Five Year Old

City tripping #87.

Oh, you must go! Would love to return and check out the castles (and wine).

Oh, I must read your post. France is packed with beautiful historic towns and cities.

Now I get it too 🙂 Didn’t know there was a place called Tours 🙂

Neither did I. Glad to have made you aware.

Neither did I. I’m glad I found it!

It was a great city to visit! Thanks…I need to get writing!

Is it? Then you’ll know all about him and Tours! A pilgrimage is most certainly overdue!

It certainly is Tanja!

Oh, do! You won’t be disappointed!

Oh Tours looks beautiful – gorgeous architecture and such a mix of styles too! Pizza & Carousel = child friendly too which is always nice to see 🙂

Absolutely, very family-friendly. It had lovely wide streets too.

Yes, exactly… a pizza vending machine! Although may take a bit longer than a bar of chocolate to come.

It was great!

We are hoping to go on a road trip around France next spring and those medieval houses really caught my attention! I’ll study a good itinerary to try include Tours, provisional plan already includes this area but no specific stops are decided yet! #citytripping

Oooh – how exciting! Tours is worth a visit. Where else are you planning on going?

Tours looks brilliant – I’m always excited to hear about places that aren’t the usual well-trod cities! #citytripping

Great! Me too. So glad to have brought it to your attention.

That cathedral looks incredible! I think I might have visited Tours during my own childhood trip to the Dordogne but my memory is a little hazy so I’ll have to pay it another visit! #citytripping

Yes, do. It’s worth another look – with adult eyes.

I do like a good provincial town (allthough I;d better not let Tours hear me call it that). Good location, love the medieval buildings.

Thanks! It was a good one to explore!

Thanks for sharing your visit to Tours. The cathedral looks like it was worth the trip all by itself. I also thought that the Medieval timber townhouses were really interesting.

Absolutely, the cathedral was incredible! I’d have liked to have spent more time exploring the medieval quarter, no doubt it would truly come alive in the evening.

Wow, the cathedral looks massive, quite impressive! And speaking of impressive, I can’t believe that your youngest is growing up fast! Wasn’t it just recently that you brought her to HK as a baby? Time flies really quickly 🙂 #Citytripping

It really does go so quickly! Feels like she’s really grown in the past few months!

France is such a beautiful and perfect place!!

Isn’t it!

We love Tours too! Always feels like a good halfway point on our annual drive South. The kids absolutely love Lulu Parc, just across the river. And the attached restaurant, La Guinguette I think it’s called, is super family friendly.

Oooh, great tips Daisy! Thank you!

I went to this area years ago with my parents and remember loving the feel of it then – the buildings, the history and the food! It doesn’t seem to have changed that much, and that can only be a good thing. #citytripping

How lovely. That’s great to hear. Hope I brought back some memories!

Hehe – #allaboutfrance was why we went! Plenty more mosts to come Phoebe! I’ve not seen an oyster vending machine. I can vouch for how good the pizzas were but it’s an interesting concept!

I was lucky enough to spend an academic year, as a student, in Tours; such happy memories! When we drive down to our home, in Castelnaudary, from Dieppe. We always have an overnight stop in Tours. I still love the city!

Oh wow – how wonderful! Must have been a great experience being a student there. Glad I brought back memories!

Oh absolutely! Definitely worth a closer look.

It’s many years since I visited Tours, but I can remember happy days spent looking at the Loire châteaux. We are very fond of Sancerre (both the place and the wine!) in the eastern part of the Loire. Your post has given me the appetite to go back. #AllAboutFrance

Oooh, and your comment has made me want to explore more of the chateaux and Sancerre (I’m a fan of the wine too).

This really gives a flavour of Tours. I like the half timbered houses especially #AllAboutFrance

Thanks Janet. It was a great city to explore.

Solidly bourgeois? Count me in! 😉 The city looks lovely and so fun to explore with kids! #citytripping

Absolutely! I think I need to go back.

I didn’t even think of going to Tours before this post! My family of 5 will arrive in Paris this summer and it’s onwards from there. We may have to come back from Asia a little early just to stay in this town. That and Cornwall where Poldark is filmed! It’s no Tours, but if you’re ever in Raleigh, NC you should check out this post https://rebelhearttravel.com/15-things-to-do-raleigh/

Tours is a great city to visit, hope you get there one day!

Thats a great trip you had in Tours. We also fell in love with this lovely city when we visited it last summer. You have provided a very good insight on Tours.

Thank you very much Roslin. It’s a beautiful city!

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City Tripping #124

City Tripping #123

St Paul’s Cathedral Visit With Its Incredible London Views

City Tripping #119

City Tripping #117

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Wandering Baboon

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

The attractive city centre streets of Tours have led to this city in Western France being given a series of celebratory nicknames, from Little Paris for its culture, to the Garden of France for its parklands.

Situated on the River Loire as it makes its way towards the Atlantic Ocean, the city boasts a historic centre that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Once the capital of France, Tours is simply awash with wonders old and new, from important museums to the botanical garden. The surrounding countryside is also filled with vineyards that have been producing renowned wines for decades.

Here are the best things to do in Tours.

1. Tours Cathedral

With a fine riverside location, the current Cathedral of Saint-Gatien was begun in 1170. However, the two intricately-decorated towers on its main façade date from only the fifteenth century. They incorporate some of the city’s original Roman-era walls in their form.

The several centuries of building work means the cathedral shifts in style from Romanesque to Renaissance, via the Gothic architecture often associated with such structures.

Its interior is decorated with a series of stained-glass windows, including a spectacular symmetrical window behind the organ, which is itself a masterpiece of artistry at least 500 years old.

2. The Old City

Typified by the medieval timber-framed buildings of Place Plumereau, the Old City of Tours has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historic importance.

Its cobbled streets are filled with atmosphere, and dotted with all manner of independent cafes and boutique stores, mixing souvenirs with local foodstuffs.

The smell of freshly-baked bread, ripening cheeses, and spice blends hits its peak in the covered market of Place des Halles, where you can find rillette confit-like meats, local wines, and tasty traditional nougats.

Elsewhere, the winding and narrow streets are perfect for a little urban exploration, leading to stunning historic structures amid the sounds of the gently-flowing river.

3. Museum of Fine Arts

The Musée des Beaux-Arts is located close to the cathedral in the former bishop’s palace. Its collection has expanded to some 12,000 works of art, with around one thousand on public display at any one time.

Its ground floor is dedicated to local art from the 1400s and 1500s, while other rooms are hung with paintings by Delacroix, Degas, and Monet among many other famous names.

The museum is surrounded by well-tended gardens, which include a large Lebanon cedar said to have been planted by Napoleon Bonaparte. A niche also contains the taxidermy remains of an elephant that escaped the Barnum and Bailey circus when it visited Tours in 1902.

Website: http://www.mba.tours.fr/

4. Tours Castle

Also close to the cathedral, on the south bank of the Loire, is Tours Castle, the Château de Tours.

Built from the eleventh century onwards, the castle was a royal residence, and home to the Carolingian dynasty.

Taking the form of a rectangular mansion attached to the much older, round form of the Tower of Guise, its many notable occasions includes the marriage of King Louis XI to Charlotte of Savoy in 1436, which led his father to send an army to try and stop him.

It now hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, with a focus on contemporary art and photography.

Website: https://chateau.tours.fr/

5. Botanical Garden

Spread over five hectares, Tours botanical garden, or jardin botanique, is the oldest of the city’s parklands, founded in 1843 by public subscription.

It began life as a medical garden for the nearby hospital, housing several thousand plants thought to have medicinal properties within the garden, greenhouses, and orchard.

The greenhouses and an orangery survive to this day, alongside attractions including a pool planted with water lilies to the north of the garden, and a small petting zoo.

Website: https://www.tours.fr/services-infos-pratiques/585-jardin-botanique.htm

6. Hôtel Goüin

Important enough to have previously appeared on a French postage stamp, the Hôtel Goüin is a hôtel particulier mansion built in the 1400s by a family who made their fortune in the silk trade.

It takes its name from the banking family that purchased the property in 1738, and is now occupied by the collection of the Goüin Museum.

A delight inside and out, its exterior has beautiful carvings above the windows and on the various projecting surfaces, while the interior displays objects from the region’s prehistory right up to the 1700s.

Website: http://www.hotelgouin.fr/

7. Touraine vineyards

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this time for its landscape of rolling vines and hill-top castles, the Loire Valley is home to world-famous vineyards.

The Touraine sub-division centred on Tours produces millions of litres every year, with white, red, and rosé wines that meet pretty much every taste.

Among them is Domaine Nicholas Paget, operated by a family has been in the wine trade for five generations.

This vineyard offers visitors a huge range of options for exploring, from tours of their underground cellars to bicycle routes around the grounds, in addition to picnics and more traditional tasting sessions.

The vineyard is 35 kilometres southwest of central Tours.

Website: https://domainepaget.fr/

8. Pont Wilson

Crossing the Loire in the centre of Tours, the Pont Wilson, or Wilson Bridge, was named after US President Woodrow Wilson. He received the honour after providing American troops to support French and British forces during the First World War.

Often decked out with flags gently fluttering in the wind, it is the city’s oldest river crossing, first dating to the 1760s.

Pont Wilson is just one of the many bridges, both ancient and modern, that now cross the Loire at various points along its journey to the ocean.

Of the 40 or so that exist today, each and every one has contributed to the history and look of this stunning region.

9. Basilica of Saint Martin

Constructed over the traditional burial site of the saint, this basilica was first established in 471 AD.

Replaced several times since, the current structure dates from 1886, with the rebuilding of religious structures destroyed during the French Revolution almost a hundred years earlier. It was only rededicated in 1925.

The church was constructed in a Neo-byzantine style, distinguishing it from Tours cathedral. Its Charlemagne Tower is one of the main survivors of the former structure, alongside the clock tower.

Devotees can find the re-established tomb of Saint Martin in the crypt, whose walls are covered with votive prayers.

Website: https://www.basiliquesaintmartin.fr/

10. Château de Plessis-lèz-Tours

The remaining portion of Plessis-lèz-Tours Castle in La Riche represents a much larger U-shaped structure also pulled down during the French Revolution, this time because of its association with French royalty and the ancien régime.

A favourite residence of Louis XI, it also witnessed a meeting between France’s Henry III and IV a hundred years later.

The small red-brick building with limestone detailing that can be visited today includes the room in which Louis XI died, carved wood dated to the 1400s, and cramped metal cages that were once used to hold prisoners.

La Riche is on the western outskirts of modern-day Tours, close to the botanical garden.

11. Cruise down river

Enjoy incredible views of the town from the waters of the Loire, slipping under bridges and past the city’s most important sites, including the castle and cathedral.

The most authentic tours take place on traditional wooden-built flat-bottomed boats known as Toue that are able to slip across even the shallowest parts of the Loire.

With seating for around 10-30, even on the busiest of summer days these cruises are a tranquil way to explore Tours further without wearing out your feet.

12. Musée de Compagnonnage

This museum hosts a vast collection of pieces related to France’s Guilds – the stone masons, leather workers, carpenters, and roofers that has made the country what it is today.

Its display cases show off everything from shoes to scale models of cathedrals, all housed within a dramatic chateau with sweeping rooflines pierced with stonework chimneys.

Certainly worth the short journey to the countryside around the town of Blois in the Loire Valley, you can reach the museum’s home of Château de Chambord in roughly an hour.

Website: https://www.museecompagnonnage.fr/

13. Town Hall

Equally decorative is Tours Town Hall, or Hôtel de Ville. In many ways its structure is typically French, with its columned frontage dotted with statuary reminding many of train stations and palaces that can be found throughout the country.

Officially, it boasts a Louis XIII style, rich in rococo detail. Inside, the Town Hall is just as fine, with grand staircases leading to rooms that are undeniably luxurious. Here you’ll find huge fireplaces, and stucco work that spans its walls and ceilings.

14. Cloître de la Psalette

The setting for the story Le Curé de Tours by Balzac, who was born in Tours, these cloisters date from the fifteenth century.

Connected with the cathedral, the cloister takes its name from the religious psalms that were heard entering its doorways from the music school next door.

It once contained one of the most important libraries in France, and while this has now been distributed to other centres across the country, its historic architecture remains, and has been legally protected since 1889.

Website: http://www.cloitre-de-la-psalette.fr/

15. Grand Theatre

The city’s premier performance space, the Grand Theatre is the base for both the Opéra de Tours opera company and the region’s official symphony orchestra.

Constructed in 1872 in the Second Empire style, it took its influence from the Opéra Garnier in Paris. It is situated in the Old Town and has seating capable of receiving an audience of 900.

However, even if there are no shows scheduled while you’re in town, you can still take pleasure in admiring its front from one of the cafes nearby.

Website: http://www.operadetours.fr/

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France):

• Tours Cathedral
• The Old City
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Tours Castle
• Botanical Garden
• Hôtel Goüin
• Touraine vineyards
• Pont Wilson
• Basilica of Saint Martin
• Château de Plessis-lèz-Tours
• Cruise down river
• Musée de Compagnonnage
• Cloître de la Psalette
• Grand Theatre

Is Tours, France Safe? – A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Planning your first trip to Tours, France, but concerned about your safety? As an absolute beginner on this topic, it’s natural to have some reservations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the safety aspects of Tours, France, and provide you with useful information to help you make an informed decision about your trip.

Understanding Tours and its Safety Situation

Tours is a beautiful city located in the Loire Valley of France. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, it offers a fantastic experience for travelers. As a tourist, your safety is undoubtedly a top priority.

The Overall Safety Level

Tours is generally considered a safe city for visitors. Like any other destination, there may be occasional petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching, but these are rare and can be minimized by taking simple precautions.

Crime Rates

The crime rates in Tours are relatively low compared to larger cities in France. Violent crimes are rare, and most incidents involve non-violent offenses. The local police force is well-trained and responsive, maintaining peace and security in the city.

Safety Tips for Tourists in Tours

1. stay alert in crowded areas.

As with any popular tourist destination, crowded places present a higher risk of theft. Be cautious of your belongings, keep your bag zipped up and close to your body, and be aware of your surroundings.

2. Secure Your Valuables

When exploring the city, leave your expensive jewelry and unnecessary valuables in your hotel’s safe. Carry only the essentials and ensure you have photocopies of important documents like passports and identification.

3. Use Reliable Transportation Services

If you’re using public transportation, make sure to use official taxis, buses, or recognized ride-sharing services. Avoid unlicensed or unmarked vehicles to ensure your safety during transportation.

4. Be Cautious in Nightlife Areas

Tours offers a vibrant nightlife scene, but it’s wise to exercise caution, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

5. Emergency Numbers

Save the local emergency numbers in your phone in case of any unfortunate incident. The emergency number in France is 112, which connects you to police, medical services, and fire departments.

Safety During COVID-19

During these uncertain times, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Check the travel advisories and guidelines provided by the local health authorities and abide by them. Remember to practice social distancing, wear masks, and frequently sanitize your hands.

Tours, France, is a safe and delightful destination for tourists. By being vigilant and following some basic safety tips, you can fully enjoy your time exploring the city’s fascinating history, charming streets, and mouth-watering cuisine. Remember, it’s always better to be cautious, even in the safest of places.

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Living in Tours, France as an Expat: An In-depth Analysis

Written by Kittenproperties

• 1 Introduction
• 2 Pros of Living in Tours as an Expat
• 3 Cons of Living in Tours as an Expat
• 4 Conclusion
• 5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Introduction

Tours, a picturesque city nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley in France, is known for its rich history, beautiful châteaux, and gourmet offerings. For expatriates, living in Tours can be an enchanting experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. This article delves into the advantages and drawbacks of residing in Tours from an expat's perspective.

Pros of Living in Tours as an Expat

Cultural experiences.

Rich History: Tours boasts a captivating historical ambiance with medieval quarters, cobblestone streets, and ancient landmarks.

Festivals and Events: From the wine festivals to local music and arts events, there's always something happening in Tours.

Local Gastronomy: The local wines, cheeses, and other gourmet delights are a treat for the culinary enthusiast.

Favorable Climate

Mild Winters: Unlike many northern European cities, Tours has relatively mild winters.

Pleasant Summers: Summers are warm but not overly hot, making outdoor activities enjoyable.

Quality of Life

Healthcare: France, including Tours, is renowned for its high-quality healthcare system.

Safety: Tours is known for its low crime rates and is generally considered a safe city to live in.

Public Transportation: Efficient public transportation makes it easy to navigate the city.

Educational Opportunities

Language Schools: There are numerous schools offering French courses tailored for expats.

International Schools: For families with children, there are international schooling options available.

Proximity to Other Major French Cities

Strategic Location: Located just about an hour's train ride from Paris, Tours provides easy access to the capital and other major French cities.

Social Connectivity

Intimate Atmosphere: As compared to sprawling metropolitans, Tours offers a more intimate setting which makes it easier to foster relationships and connect with the community.

Networking Opportunities: Various cultural events and local meetups offer chances for expats to network and socialize.

Scenic Beauty

Loire Valley: The proximity to the scenic Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vineyards and châteaux, offers an enchanting landscape to explore.

River Tours: The serene Loire River adds to the city's charm, and one can often enjoy tranquil boat rides or picnics by the riverbanks.

Art and Architecture

Museums and Galleries: The city houses numerous art museums and galleries that showcase both historical artifacts and contemporary art.

Architectural Marvels: Tours has preserved its medieval architecture, which coexists beautifully with the modern infrastructures, making the city a visual delight.

Lesser Tourist Traffic: Quiet Charm: Unlike tourist-heavy French cities like Paris or Nice, Tours provides a more authentic, less crowded experience.

Diverse Recreation Activities

Local Markets: Weekly markets offer fresh local produce, handicrafts, and a chance to mingle with the locals.

Nightlife and Dining: With a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, Tours offers an active nightlife and diverse culinary options.

Cons of Living in Tours as an Expat

Language barrier.

French Dominance: While many locals speak some English, most daily transactions and communications are conducted in French.

Cost of Living

Relative Expense: While cheaper than cities like Paris, living in Tours can still be relatively expensive compared to other regions.

Adjustment to French Bureaucracy

Complex Systems: Expats often find the French bureaucratic system intricate and time-consuming.

Limited Job Market for Non-French Speakers

Language Requirement: Most jobs, especially outside the tourist industry, require proficiency in French.

Potential Cultural Misunderstandings

Cultural Differences: Expats might encounter misunderstandings due to cultural nuances, which can be challenging.

Smaller Expat Community

Isolation Feel: With a smaller expat community compared to bigger cities, some might feel isolated or out of place initially.

Regional Limitations

Limited Global Exposure: Tours, being a regional city, might not provide the same global exposure or amenities as Paris or Lyon.

Weather Unpredictability

Sudden Changes: While the climate is generally favorable, Tours can sometimes have unpredictable weather shifts.

Traditional Outlook

Conservative Approach: Some expats might find the local community to be more traditional or conservative compared to cosmopolitan European cities.

Local Norms and Etiquettes

Cultural Learning Curve: Expats might need to invest time in understanding and respecting local norms, etiquettes, and customs.

Living in Tours, France, as an expat offers a blend of rich cultural experiences, quality of life, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the French way of life. While there are challenges, the rewards of integrating into this vibrant community make it a worthy consideration for many expatriates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. how well do locals in tours speak english.

While younger generations and those in the tourist sector often speak English, it's beneficial for expats to learn some basic French for daily interactions.

2. Is Tours a good place for families?

Yes, with its safety record, good schools, and family-friendly activities, Tours is suitable for families.

3. What's the local cuisine like?

Tours, like much of the Loire Valley, is renowned for its wines, cheeses, and traditional French dishes.

4. Is it easy for expats to integrate into the local community?

Integration can vary based on individual effort. Joining local clubs, attending language classes, and engaging in community events can aid the process.

5. Are there any expat communities or networks in Tours?

Yes, there are several expat communities and online forums where newcomers can connect, share experiences, and seek advice.

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• Your opinion of T...

Your opinion of Tours, France

Hi, I will be in France for three weeks next year, and I reserved a quaint hotel in the old section of Tours, France for three nights. I just read an extremely negative review on this forum of Tours, but I see the poster has only created two postings, and they were both very negative.

Anyway, for those who have stayed overnight in Tours, what’s your opinion? I’m traveling by train, and am planning to take a couple of chateau minivan tours.

I know I've read two different reviews of Tours, neither very good. It's a bigger city, we've used the train station there a couple times. My preference would be Amboise or Saumur, BUT, I always have a rental car in Loire. If you are not inclined to rent a car and want to do chateau or wine tours, you may be best off in Tours.

We stopped there for an overnight on our way to Loches. We stopped again 4 or 5 nights later for an overnight after staying in Amboise and visiting Langeias. The cathedral is very impressive. The older part of town is nice, pretty at night. Town hall is impressive. Had a pleasant run along the river. We found a nice Irish pub, Shannons? Had decent meals at a small restaurant next to the pub. We were more focused on getting to other nearby smaller towns. Loches is a short bus ride away. We loved Loches. Stayed in a beautiful 15th century hotel. Beautiful town, great history. Amboise is just a short train ride away from Tours. Busier, more touristy than Loches but the Chateau is impressive. Langeias is also a short train ride from Tours. It has a beautiful Chateau too.

In summer, Amboise is absolutely inundated with tourists. There are only two restaurants in town worth bothering with: l´Epicerie or le Parvis. The rest are only there for the tourists. Frankly I find Amboise over hyped and much ado about nothing - or very little.

Tours is the transportation hub of the Loire Valley and a lively college town. If you do not have a car, it is the only place I would consider staying but only then in the area broadly defined as between Place Plumereau (in Old Tours) and Tours Centre - the train station. Other areas of Tours are not particularly interesting for tourists.

The Office de Tourisme, from where the minibus tours depart is just across the street from Tours Centre. Place Plumereau, in the heart of Vieux Tours, is a relatively short walk away and has numerous cafés and restaurants.

I have heard negative comments about Tours from people who have never really been there and know nothing about Place Plumereau. It´s a wonderful location with a lot of charm. I would ignore comments from the uninformed. You´ll have a wonderful time there.

Hi Jean. My response was knocked out quickly at midnight last night (I am an Aussie) so was brief. I did have a look for the negative review but because of it's name a search is a bit of a nightmare lol. As I said we just used it as I start and finish point so never got a chance to explore deeply. What I saw of the city in our 2 brief stays impressed and I would not hesitate to return and spend more time there. I am sure you will have a great time. I do wonder about people who post really negative reviews. I seem to fall in love with nearly every place I go. Maybe it is an attitude thing. I would recommend a visit to lovely Loches. The Donjon and the surrounding area is most impressive. We were there in peak season and yet found few tourists. Also Langeais impressed us. The interior of the Chateau was wonderful. It also had few tourists. Probably 20 to 30 people there on a beautiful summers afternoon. Amboise was crowded. The Chateau is a mighty impressive sight and we felt well worth our time. I am sure you will find many great options in the area. What is the name of the hotel in Tours that you are staying in?

Hi Mo’pak, yes, the town of Tours was ill-named for word searches! Try searching for “If your considering a visit to Tours France....don't.”

I have a refundable reservation at Hotel L’Adresse, a block away from Place Plumereau. My itinerary is flying into CDG & immediately heading to Rouen for a few days. Then a couple of smaller towns, staying at B&B’s and then three nights at Tours. I figured by then I would be ready for a larger town; also, I’m traveling solo for the first two weeks and then hubby joins me for a final week. So, the mini-van tours would give me activities that would prevent any loneliness and a nice break to speak English.

But, Langeais and similar do look appealing. I really want to see the gardens of Villandry, and Langeais is just a taxi ride from it.

Thanks, Andrew, for your recommendations and comments about Tours. I definitely think “less is more”, so I’ll just see a few from all of the options. I definitely want to see the gardens of Villandry. All of those impressive chateaus, and I’m drawn to enjoy seeing & smelling the gardens!

Mo’pak, I agree about the negative posts. It would be very hard for me to not have a wonderful day on vacation! And I like the quirky old town portions of cities.

My main concern for posting is if there’s actually a safety issue or absolutely no chance for a decent night’s sleep.

Well, if Tours is terrible, we will be in misery together, as I have a trip planned for next year there as well. I picked Tours as a base for the Loire Valley for the same reason as you, since we will be also traveling by train. The old town from google street views look nice as does the cathedral, and with easy access to transportation all the chateau are within reach. I am also interested in a large enough city to have shopping and food options. I'm excited about visiting Tours, can it really be bad, it is France after all! Enough caramel, chocolate, and wine will fix any bland site. Sorry I can't give you an actual report since I haven't been YET but, I think you will love your trip, it sounds fun to me.

Nothing hurts my heart more than hearing negative things said about Tours.

I studied abroad in Tours and have gone back for work on many occasions and I have never grown bored of it. I wonder if those who did not like it just didn't see the right spots. To me it is as charming as a big city can be. Place Plumereau is a gem. The gare and the Hotel de Ville are architectural delights and the St. Gatien cathedral is my favorite cathedral in the world. Not to mention, their Beaux-Arts museum is fantastic and there is no shortage of parks or restaurants. What's not to love? It now is even more convenient with its tramway and dont forget to visit the Ginguette on the Loire.

If I was allowed to move to France, it would be my number one pick of city. I have never understood Rick Steves' disdain for this gem of a city and like the above poster said, people who don't have first-hand information chime in when they shouldn't,

It is the perfect place for a Loire Valley trip, especially if you are taking the minivan excursions.

My personal experience is riding a bicycle through Tours heading from Villandry to Amboise. I was following my GPS, set on bike mode, and it took me on a hellish ride through narrow roads with heavy traffic. I didn't die but I can't say I found a single thing charming about the Tours I went through. I was on the bike trail along the Loire until I came into Tours but didn't find the trail again until I got to the other end of the urban area. My GPS, which worked great in a car, didn't seem to know a bike trail existed.

It is a pretty good sized city. I imagine cycling through most big cities wouldn’t be fun.

Thank you, everyone, for taking the time to respond! It’s good to read some balanced comments to hear both very positive aspects of Tours along with less positive comments. I liked that Tours had several options of things to see in town, along with being a good city to catch some mini-van tours. And, I really enjoy taking early morning unique photos which tend to make any location look wonderful.

I didn’t see any safety or sleeping issues, so it sounds like Tours would still be a great stop.

Tours is a larger City and as mentioned above it is a transportation hub,we liked Amboise because it is more Quaint with lots to see and it does get crowded.As for the Poster that Said there are only two Restaurants in town,if you go to Amboise there is a Small Restaurant called La Fourchette,country French and Reservation required. Mike

As a travel professional based in the Loire Valley I am of course obliged to say that Tours is lovely.

The truth is - Tours is lovely, but not all of it. Like any medium sized city there are some areas that are less picturesque, but the area around the Cathedral, Place Plumerau, and Les Halles (the market hall) really are pretty. It's quite a buzzy city because of all the students, but it's a quiet buzz in an area full of medieval buildings. In any area you are likely to be in you will never feel unsafe or threatened, but some parts are less picturesque due to the number of buildings destroyed in the allied bombing of world war 2.

L'addresse is a great hotel - we have had family stay there, as well as clients. It is an old (probably 15th or 16th century) building right in middle of the most appealing part of central Tours, near many restaurant and a few pleasant bars. I would recommend it without hesitation.

Thank you, Simon, for your local insight! It sounds perfect for what I would like. I’m in my early 60’s but enjoy being in a university town, and my initial research looks like there’s nice options of things to see and places to wander in town. Appreciate hearing that the Hotel L’Adresse will be a good choice.

Well Jean I did finally locate the "bad Tours" thread. None of the complaints matched with my experiences in Tours. I should highlight that we walked from the friendly Irish pub "The Pale" through Place Plum onto our hotel the far side of the station. We did this at 10 pm on a Saturday night and felt very safe and comfortable.

One of the most unique and interesting museums I have ever seen is in Tours: Musée du Compagnonnage http://www.museecompagnonnage.fr/page-accueil-an.html . We spent several hours admiring the masterpieces and the tools used by the craftspeople.

I realize that you asked about the city of Tours. But I would note that if you are seeing the Loire without a car, you need to book your van excursions in time to get a seat - especially in high season. I am not a fiend about renting a car, but the Loire is one place where it enhances your options. Exact dates are also important for garden displays and occasional Chateau "Illuminations" and "Son et Lumiere." In lettuce season (cooler weather), I remember a help-yourself vegetable bin at Villandry!

Edit: If you can get there from Tours, the very short trip to Chateau de la Bourdasiere might fill a hole in your schedule. You can't view the entire Chateau because it has been converted to a hotel. But it has substantial modern gardens, specializing in multiple species of tomatoes, and dahilias! I'd call it a garden-destination, not so much a history-destination. Also cooler shadowy forest walks.

Thanks, Tim, for your comments about the excursions. I created a spreadsheet with several different mini-van tour options and was waiting until early January to solidify the dates at Tours before reserving in case I wanted to slide the itinerary by one day in that area. My time in Tours will be the final days of August/1st of Sept. so hopefully beautiful weather to explore the chateaux & gardens.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

Vingegaard, Evenepoel, and Roglič see Tour de France and 2024 Olympic hopes hurt in serious crash at Itzulia Basque Country

A massive crash on Thursday, April 4th, injured several marquee riders on stage 4 of the Itzulia Basque Country road cycling race, including reigning Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard and fellow tour favourites Remco Evenepoel and Primož Roglič .

It'll now be a race against time for the three champions, and others injured in the accident, to regain full fitness ahead of a European Summer which includes the Tour de France stage race and the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Nasty crash floors three champions

The crash happened on a sharp bend in the road within the final 40 km of the stage. A dozen riders were involved, with many falling on the deck and into concrete ditches alongside the road.

Two-time defending Tour de France champ Vingegaard spent minutes on the ground before leaving the race on a stretcher to be taken to an ambulance.

"It was a nasty crash, but fortunately, he is stable and conscious. Examinations at the hospital have revealed that he has a broken collarbone and several broken ribs," his Danish team Visma Lease a Bike detailed on social media.

"Further examination in the hospital revealed that he also suffered a pulmonary contusion and pneumothorax,' they later added.

Remco Evenepoel, the 2022 Vuelta a Espana winner, had to wear a sling after the fall. His team, Soudal Quick Step, explained that the Belgian had suffered a fractured clavicle and shoulder plates. They announced on social media that he went to the hospital for further examination.

"Remco will travel to Belgium on Friday, where he will undergo an operation on his collarbone and further examination at the hospital in Herentals. Further updates will be given in due course," the team shared.

Roglič had been leading the race, but was also forced to abandon after a heavy fall. The Olympic time trial gold medallist isn't believed to have suffered injuries as serious as his two rivals. Slovenian cycling fans will be hopeful that the 34-year-old will be back on his bike well ahead of the Grand Tours season.

Others injured in the crash include Australian world champion from 2022 Jay Vine, and Eritrean cyclist Natnael Tesfatsion.

The seriously injured riders will face a battle against time to recover in time for the Tour de France. The 111th edition of the famous French race will begin in Florence, Italy, on June 29th, and end three weeks later in Nice on Sunday, July 21st.

The Paris 2024 Olympic road cycling competitions begin with the Individual Time Trials on 27 July, with the Men's Road Race on 3rd August.

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Jonas Vingegaard’s Tour de France defence in doubt after Basque crash

• 2022 and 2023 winner fractures collarbone and scapula
• Twelve riders crash on fourth stage of Basque tour

The Tour de France champion, Jonas Vingegaard, was taken to hospital with a broken collarbone after a serious crash on stage four of the Itzulia Basque Country.

Vingegaard also suffered several broken ribs from the high-speed accident that also included Remco Evenepoel and Primoz Roglic among a group of 12 affected riders. “It was a nasty crash, but fortunately he is stable and conscious. He remains in hospital as a precaution. Thank you for all your messages,” Vingegaard’s team Visma-Lease a Bike said in a statement.

Six riders went to hospital after the incident, including the Australian Jay Vine, who was diagnosed with a fractured cervical vertebra and two fractures in his thoracic spine. “Fortunately, there were no neurological problems and there are no other serious injuries or skull injuries,” Vine’s UAE Team Emirates said in a statement.

Evenepoel’s team Soudal-QuickStep revealed the Belgian must undergo surgery on a fractured collarbone and fractured scapula. Roglic was the least affected of the big-name trio involved and he headed for the team car having received medical attention. The incident took place when the peloton was descending around a tight right-hand bend with less than 40km of the stage to go, one riding sliding out of the road and on to the bank, sparking a chain reaction as more followed.

The race was then neutralised until the finish, with only the six riders who had been at the front being allowed to sprint for the finish to try to win the stage, victory eventually going to the underwhelmed South African Louis Meintjes, who admitted it was a hollow triumph.

“It’s a sad day. I wish all the guys who crashed all the best and wish them a fast recovery,” Mattias Skjelmose, who took the overall race lead from Roglic, said at the finish. “My mind is with the guys who crashed, and right now I am not thinking about the leader’s jersey.”

Vingegaard won the Tour de France in 2022 and 2023 but with this year’s event starting on 29 June, doubt now hangs over his ability to defend his crown.

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Tour de France in doubt for Jonas Vingegaard and Jay Vine after horrific crash during the Itzulia Basque Country race in Spain

Sport Tour de France in doubt for Jonas Vingegaard and Jay Vine after horrific crash during the Itzulia Basque Country race in Spain

Jonas Vingegaard has been taken to hospital along with leading Australian rider Jay Vine after some of the world's best cyclists suffered injuries in a mass crash at high speed in the Itzulia Basque Country race in Spain. 

The reigning double Tour de France champion Vingegaard was reported to have suffered a broken collarbone and several broken ribs but was "conscious" after the alarming crash that threatens his hopes of a famous treble in July.

Vine, last year's Tour Down Under winner, also ended up crashing heavily in a concrete ditch and was taken away by ambulance.

The 28-year-old was later diagnosed with a fractured cervical vertebra and two fractures in his thoracic spine, with no other major injuries or head trauma. 

It was a disastrous day for another modern-day great too, with Remco Evenepoel, the 2022 world champion, managing to walk away from the crash despite suffering what his Soudal-Quick Step later confirmed was a fracture to his right collarbone and to his right shoulder blade.

He will need surgery on Friday in Belgium.

Giro d'Italia champ Primoz Roglic, who had been the overnight leader, also abandoned the race after giving a thumbs-up to cameras from the team car to show he was OK.

In all, 12 riders near the front of the peloton were involved in the crash, which happened with about 35 kilometres left of the fourth stage between Etxarri Aranatz and Legutio, in northern Spain.

The leaders were making a sweeping right-hand turn on a slight but swift descent, with some sliding off, sending others off the road into the ditch.

Denmark's Vingegaard, who has been in spectacular form and was favourite for the 2024 Tour de France, had to be carried to the ambulance in a neck brace and needed oxygen after treatment at roadside by doctors.

The race was then neutralised until the finish, with only the six riders who had been at the front being allowed to sprint for the finish to try to win the stage, with victory eventually going to the underwhelmed South African Louis Meintjes, who admitted it was a hollow triumph.

"It's a sad day. I wish all the guys who crashed all the best and wish them a fast recovery," Mattias Skjelmose, who took the overall race lead from Roglic, said at the finish.

"My mind is with the guys who crashed, and right now I am not thinking about the leader's jersey."

The crash, which featured three of the world's most outstanding riders in Vingegaard, Evenepoel and Roglic, was also a huge blow for 25-year-old Vine, who has graduated from riding a turbo trainer in his living room to being a peloton star.

He had begun the week-long race on Monday with an exceptional time trial that had left him second behind only Roglic at that stage and revealed afterwards that the Itzulia had been only a late addition to his schedule.

Earlier on Thursday, Roglic's teammate at BORA-Hansgrohe, Lennard Kamna, was reported to be in a "stable condition" in intensive care after he had collided with a car during a training ride in Tenerife.

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Tour de France champ Vingegaard has collapsed lung after crash

Danish rider may not be able to defend his title.

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Two-time defending Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard remained hospitalized in Spain a day after he broke his collarbone and several ribs in a bad crash with other top riders during the Tour of Basque Country.

The Danish rider's Visma-Lease A Bike team said Friday that further tests revealed the Vingegaard also suffered a collapsed lung and a pulmonary contusion. The team said that cycling's leading star was "stable and had a good night" but remains in a hospital in the northern Spanish city of Vitoria.

The accident comes less than three months before the start of the Tour on June 29 when Vingegaard is scheduled to to again face off against top rival Tadej Pogačar. That highly anticipated rematch is now in doubt.

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Vingegaard was hardly moving as he was put in an ambulance wearing an oxygen mask and neck brace after the crash occurred on Thursday with less than 30 kilometres left in the race's fourth stage.

The pileup also took out cycling stars Primož Roglič and Remco Evenepoel.

Evenepoel, considered one of the favourites for the road race at the Paris Games, broke a collarbone and his right shoulder blade and was set to undergo surgery when he returns to Belgium on Friday, his Soudal Quick-Step team said.

The accident happened as riders were making what looked to be a conventional right-hand turn going downhill when one rider's front tire appeared to slip out and send other cyclists off the road. There were some large rocks and trees in the area, though it wasn't clear if any of the riders hit them. There was also a concrete drainage ditch place on the edge of the curve.

Roglič, a three-time Spanish Vuelta winner, emerged with just scratches but he did have to abandon the race he was leading.

Vingegaard was trying to defend the tittle he won last year at the six-day Tour of Basque Country.

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