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Visit Tours, the gateway city of the Loire Valley

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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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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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Tours: The ancient renaissance city in the Loire Valley

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

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

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

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

20. Wine tastings

History of tours.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Tours

1. tours cathedral.

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

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

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

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

2. Château de Tours

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

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

3. Tours Amphitheatre

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

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

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

4. Vieux Tours

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

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

5. Place Plumereau

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

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

6. Tours Charlemagne

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

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

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

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

7. Basilique Saint-Martin

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

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

8. Toue River cruises

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

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

9. Musée des beaux arts 

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

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

10. Botanical garden 

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

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

11. Halle de Tours

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

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

12. Château de Villandry

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

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

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

13. Église Saint-Julien de Tours

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

14. Harry Potter store (Les Trois sorciers)

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

15. Musée du Compagnonnage

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

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

16. Hotel Gouin

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

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

17. American Monument Fountain

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

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

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

18. Resistance and Deportation Memorial

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

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

19. Loire Valley châteaux

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Tours?

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

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

How easy is it getting around?

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

How many days should you spend?

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

Where should you stay?

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

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

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

If you enjoyed that article, you may like to read more about traveling around the Loire Valley . A bientôt!

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The Tours Loire Valley Tourist Office and the city of Tours offer a thematic tour of the Old Town of Tours, led by a guide. A guided tour of the emblematic Vieux Tours district around Place Plumereau, led by an expert guide.  Medieval half-timbered and stone houses stand side by side with exceptional townhouses. These mansions bear witness to the prosperity of this part of town, which grew up around a huge collegiate church dedicated to Saint Martin. Once home to the saint's body, it was the center of one of the oldest pilgrimages in Christendom. This tour has been awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire label.

Come aboard a tuk-tuk for an original tour of the city of Tours! For 45 minutes, Pascal will be delighted to take you to discover the city's most emblematic sites: the old town of Tours, Les Halles, the Quartier des Arts, the Basilica Saint-Martin and, of course, the riverside of the Loire.

Enjoy the destination's must-see attractions: Castle and Gardens of Villandry, Castle of Azay-le-Rideau, Castle of Tours, Centre of Contemporary Creation Olivier Debré, Fine Arts Museum, « Compagnonnage » Museum, Natural History Museum, Saint-Cosme Priory, Psalette Cloister and a guided tour of Tours. This 48h Pass also includes bike hire, access to the little tourist train (available end of March 2024) and exclusive benefits from our partners (e.g. €3 discount per player with Escape Yourself, 10% discount in the pub « Au temps des Rois »)

Discover the Loire Valley and visit its 2 most prestigious castles in one great day: impressive Château de Chambord and stunning Château de Chenonceau. Learn about the intimate little secrets of the French Kings who once lived there. Enjoy off-the-crowd panoramic views thanks to your local guide, benefit from wealth of thrilling genuine details and funny anecdotes and make the most of this exciting day. Program: 9.30am: Departure from Tours. Meet your friendly guide in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours (just in front of the train station). Everybody's here? Let’s start the day! 9:30am: Start in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours, and get into our minivan, off to Chenonceau! Next step is Château de Chenonceau! On the way, get a good look at lovely privately owned châteaux but also other must-see castles of Loire Valley such as: Cheverny, Chaumont, Amboise, Montrichard... Chenonceau: this is the most visited historical monument in France after Château de Versailles. Admire this stunning chateau and its unique gallery, built on a bridge across the Cher River. With your guide, stroll through the gorgeously-manicured gardens à la Française named after the famous ladies who lived there: "Catherine de Médicis" and "Diane de Poitiers". Once inside, take your time to appreciate the refined architecture and feminine influence that prevails in each room of this renowned chateau, all decorated with beautiful antiques and the most divine fresh flower arrangements. The kitchens, the Queen bedroom, the Gallery... your tour guide will show you all the beautiful rooms of this incredible place. Lunch will take place off the beaten path. You will enjoy a typical French lunch in a lovely private château of Loire Valley, built by Jean le Breton! Start with the visit of this unique familly Château, meet the family and discover all the authentic rooms and lovely surroundings of this haven of piece. After the visit, hosted by the French Countess who lives there permanently, indulge in the nice and cozy atmosphere with tasty food and local Loire Valley wine. This experience will make you feel like the owner of the place! More than a chateau, this work of art is a glorious historical place that will take you to the heart of the Loire Valley and the Renaissance era. Your guide will make this trip back in time a fun and captivating experience. He will tell you everything about the history of the castle, built by the famous King François 1er. Unforgettable! Once inside, your guide will select for you the most emblematic rooms to visit: the double helix staircase, the chapel, the terrace...He will also share with you memorable anecdotes and point at hidden details of interest and breathtaking views of the château. So get ready to travel back in time of French Renaissance! After this exceptional visit, your tour-guide will advise you some spots to get a impressive view of the chateau. A spectacular day you will never forget. 5.30pm: Back to the Tourist Office in Tours

Head west for half a day! Nature and relaxation guaranteed. Accompanied by a guide, a 15km loop will take you along the "La Loire à Vélo" itinerary to the Ile de la Métairie in La Ville-aux-Dames, formerly known as the Ile de Rochecorbon, characterised by its sandy meadows. A fun, educational trail to help you identify the flora and fauna present.

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Here, events come and go and none is alike other ! The metropolis know how to cultivate its art of living. Numbers of events from traditionnal and old music, to gastronomy or sport are organized throughtout all seasons. This eclectic program also allows to discover some nice historic, or out the ordinary, places.

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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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Guide to the City of Tours and its Attractions in the Loire Valley

The historic attractions of Tours bring people to this Loire Valley city, located where the Loire and Cher rivers join up. The main town of the Loire Valley, it's conveniently just over 2 hours from Paris by the TGV Express train. The bustling lively city is particularly known for good food and wine which attracts plenty of people who commute daily to Paris. Tours ​makes a good base for exploring the surrounding chateaux and gardens in this westerly section of the Loire Valley. If you want to go further, make your way west to Angers and its different attractions.

Tours Transportation - Rail Station

Tours Station, place du Gen. Leclerc, is south east of the cathedral district opposite the Centre de Congres Vinci.

The Old Quarter and Pilgrims

The old town clusters around place Plumereau; its old houses restored to their former glory. Today this is the place for pavement cafes and people watching in the summer but stroll the smaller, narrow streets like rue Briconnet and you step back into the historic medieval city. To the south you’ll find a romanesque basilica, the Cloitre de St-Martin and the new Basilique de St-Martin. You’re in the place which was once on the great pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. St-Martin was a soldier who became bishop of Tours in the 4th century and helped spread Christianity through France. His remains, rediscovered in 1860, are now in the crypt of the new Basilique.

The Cathedral Quarter

The other old part, the cathedral quarter, on the other side of the main rue Nationale, is dominated by the Cathédrale St-Gatien (5 pl de la Cathedrale, tel.: 00 33 (0)2 47 70 21 00; admission free), a flamboyant Gothic building with 12th-century decorated stonework covering the outside. Inside the highlights are the 16th-century tomb of Charles VIII and Anne de Bretagne’s two children, and the stained glass.

Just south of the cathedral you’ll find the Musée des Beaux-Arts (18 pl Francois Sicard, tel.: 00 33 (0)2 47 05 68 73; information ; admission free) housed in the former archbishop’s palace. There are gems to be discovered in the collections, but the main point here is to walk through the succession of 17th and 18th-century furnished rooms.

The Priory and Rose Garden at St-Cosne

Make your way 3 kilometers east of the center to the Prieure de St-Cosne (La Riche, information) . Now a romantic ruin, the priory was founded in 1092, becoming a stopping off place on the pilgrimage route to Compostella in Spain. When the royal family came to live in Touraine, the priory flourished from visits from Catherine de Medicis and Charles IX. Equally important was the prior who received them, France's most famous poet, Pierre Ronsard. He was prior here for the last 20 years of his life, dying in 1585.

There’s a little museum dedicated to the French poet, Ronsard, but the main attraction is the rose garden which includes the Pierre de Ronsard rose among its hundreds of varieties.

Markets in Tours

Tours has markets every day except for Monday. You’ll get full details from the Tourist Office. Markets to try for include the flower and food market (Wednesday and Saturday, Blvd Beranger, 8am-6pm); the gourmet market (first Friday of the month, place de la Resistance, 4-10pm); the antiques market (first and third Friday of the month, rue de Bordeaux) and the larger antiques market (fourth Sunday of the month).

Annual markets include the Foire de Tours (from the first Saturday to the second Sunday of May), the Garlic and Basil Fair (July 26th), a huge flea market (first Sunday of September) and a Christmas market (three weeks before Christmas). All these have become major attractions in the region.

Hotels in Tours

The Tourist Office can help with booking hotels. It's worth going on to the website for special offers, though many may be last minute.

Restaurants in Tours

You'll find a whole slew of cheaper restaurants, bistros and cafe around Place Plumereau, particularly on rue du Grand Marche. For good restaurants and more local places, try the cathedral side of rue Nationale.

Local Food & Wine Specialties

Rabelais' Gargantua came from the region, so expect plenty of good food. Local special dishes to look out for in restaurants include rillettes (coarse goose or pork pate), andouillettes (tripe sausage), coq-au-vin in Chinon wine, Ste Maure goat's cheese. 'Tours prunes', macaroons from the monks of Cormery and fouaces (cakes) beloved by Rabelais.

Drink the local Loire Valley wines: white from Vouvray, Montlouis, Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau, and red wines from Chinon, Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas. You'll also find red, white and rose wines certified as 'Touraine'.

Visiting Attractions Beyond Tours

Tours is ideally placed for visiting the Loire Valley Chateaux as there are bus and train connections to chateaux like Langeais, Azay-le-Rideau and Amboise .

If you plan to use Tours as a base, then go further to the chateaux of Blois and Chambord.

If you're interested in gardens rather than chateaux, don't miss Villandry with its terraces, water garden and Renaissance vegetable garden.

Find out about organised excursions from the Tourist Office at 78-82 rue Bernard-Palissy  (Tel.:  00 33 (0)2 47 70 37 37).

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

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France)

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

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

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

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

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

Lets explore the best things to do in Tours :

1. Tours Cathedral

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

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

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

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

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

2. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

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

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

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

3. Tours Botanical Garden

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

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

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

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

4. Le Vieux Tours

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

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

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

5. Musée du Compagnonnage

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

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

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

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

6. Hôtel Goüin

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

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

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

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

7. Halles de Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé

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

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

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

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

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

9. Église Saint-Julien de Tours

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

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

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

10. “Toue” River Cruises

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

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

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

11. Loire à Vélo

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

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

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

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

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

12. Guinguette sur Loire

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

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

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

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

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

13. Wine and Gastronmic Visits

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Château de Villandry

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

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

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

The gardens are the showstopper at this château.

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

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

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

15. Château d’Amboise

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

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

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

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

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

15 Best Things to Do in Tours (France):

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

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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

From France Today magazine

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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.

Visit Tours, a Historic City in the Loire Valley

Inspiration

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

Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

Here, living is an art

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

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

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

What not to miss in this beautiful European city:

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

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

The "Tours" of events

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

Visit Tours

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

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

Getting to Tours

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

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

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When we went inside the pavilion noticed so many people cheering and laughing, some pouring the wine, some tasting it, and some talking about it with the Vitiloire wine glass in their hand. Numerous of them sitting on the picnic table arranged around the trees and many standing at the stall sipping the wines. Other than wines, we found traditional delicacies and yummy french desserts. Exciting, isn't it? The atmosphere so festive that no one wants to leave. We loved that and stayed to enjoy it.

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

Around 150 plus winegrowers and professionals participate in this festival. Viti Loire wine festival is visited by approximately 35,000 visitors every year (Figure facts from Vitiloire website).

The Surprise

The city of tours, how to reach the city of tours, where to stay in the city of tours, a short story, car hire in the city of tours, the middle story, viti loire festival at the city of tours, jardin de la préfecture, cathédrale saint-gatien, musée des beaux-arts de tours, château de tours, pont de fil or pont de saint symphorien, rue colbert street, place plumereau.

How lucky is that? This was a great surprise for us. We only had to pay 6 Euros each for the entry where they provide you with a list of the local wine stalls, participants and a glass printed VitiLoire on it to taste the wines and buy it if you like.

We saw many people with boxes full of wine bottles, they must have bought at a reasonable price. Oh wow! Why can't we buy these wines too and take them with us? I also the Viti Loire inscribed glasses as a souvenir(which they let you keep). Somewhere in my heart, I felt.

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

The city of Tours is a charming little town of France, the centre of Loire Valley and a gateway to explore the chateaux de Loire Valley. Right from its history to its beauty, the city of Tours (France) has so much to offer. The city's Cathedral, Museum of Beaux-Art, gastronomy, wines and Stroll along the River Loire. River Loire is Europe's last wild river and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tours is an ideal place to visit spectacular Loire Valley and surrounding region vineyards.

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

Tours was our next stop from Paris. To visit Loire Valley the next day, as I mentioned earlier its a traditional gateway for Loire Valley. The plan was to catch an early morning train to Paris to change and catch another train for Geneva, Switzerland from Paris. We booked 2 nights in the Hotel Novotel next to the train station Gare de Tours came out to be a great decision. The hotel is a convenient place to start checking out the city being the city's centre.

Our room was not that big but still spacious enough for 2 Adults and one baby. Though the crawling space for Aanick wasn't sufficient, he always found some. Along with many support of furniture for him to stand and enjoy the room.

The room included a wall-mounted TV, a writing table and a chair, a Single Sofa bed, a luggage rack attached with a side table and had tea/coffee set up and also a mini-fridge. Though a let down was a paper cup, It felt strange as the hotel claims the 4-star category for itself. Not forgetting to mention the window was wall to wall three large glass windows which you can open to have a city view. We had a pleasant stay at the hotel except they don't replenish your tea/coffee set up once it's used for the day. I felt sad because I am a tea lover. Related to this let me tell you a small funny tale. It made my husband laugh at me.

So here it goes – When I called the receptionist to ask to replenish some tea/coffee, first, the girl didn't understand me. The language becomes a barrier sometimes. Tours(France) is one of the cities in France; they speak the “purest” form of French in the whole country. When I opened our hotel room door, all happy, thinking finally I can enjoy some tea, I found a server probably from the restaurant, with a smile, a tray of one portion coffee with a bill of 9 Euro uh what!!! Not only that I had asked for a bottle of water, so we ended up paying 13 euros for misunderstanding.

However, we had a decent stay at the Novotel hotel and loved the breakfast buffet they offer. The hotel also has its own free car parking second reason to choose this hotel. Not many hotels in Europe provide free parking. And it can get expensive if you have to pay everywhere you go for parking. So be aware of this fact too while choosing the car option. There are many more hotels you can find on a budget around the station. The town is small but offers many good hotels to stay in. We prefer booking.com to compare the rates.

Mostly we book the car a few days early then our arrival, but this time due to our jobs we forgot to book the vehicle. Upon reaching the station of Tours we marched straight towards the Avis car rentals, to book the car, but we found out there was no car available with them at the time. But then, after a few hours, they managed to arrange a vehicle for us, hurray! Now it is sure we go to visit Loire valley with that car. We got Peugeot 208 for around 80 USD a day. Worst case scenario, we were prepared to take the local train services to visit the castles if we couldn't have the car. Whereas if you fall in a similar situation, now you know you can hire a car directly from the station tours station too.

While rentals looking for a car, we headed to our hotel to get some rest.

After settling down, we went out on a hunt for a good lunch. It was just the afternoon when we arrived. Near the hotel, there are many interesting cafes and restaurants. But unfortunately, most of the shops and restaurants were closed. We saw a Vietnamese restaurant open and rushed to find out they do serve Chinese, but this was authentic Chinese, not the ones most Indians like. Anyway having plain Chinese was better than starving.

After having lunch, we headed to a crowded place opposite the station, curious what's going on, is it some kind of flea market. We couldn't be happier with what we found.

A Few Places We Could Manage to See in This Charming City in A Short Time

The festival was held in the Jardin de la Préfecture (in easy words Préfecture Garden). Opposite the train station. A beautiful, elegant garden with plane trees, chestnut trees, and a small lake. Also has a statue of writer Anatole France. You can spend some time over here if you like to see the Gardens. The city of Tours is not huge, but you can walk and visit the place. Because we had a baby, we decided to go directly to these tourist attractions and have a look.

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

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

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

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

We wandered to some narrow roads, small shops, around the banks of the river Loire and a bridge (Pont de Fil) over it. Walking back to our car, we found this intriguing place, a street full of various restaurants offering a variety of cuisine.

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

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

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

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

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Tourism, holidays & weekends guide in the Indre-et-Loire

Now the capital of Touraine , Tours was the capital of the kingdom of France in the 15th and 16th centuries. The city has kept many traces of its past and invites you to discover them. A very lively neighbourhood, the old town and its famous Place Plumereau are the beating heart of Tours. Lined with half-timbered houses and mansions, this pedestrian square is brimming with restaurants and cafés. Also discover the city's flagship monument, the Gothic Cathedral of St. Gatianus with a richly decorated Flamboyant façade. Inside, you can see a 13th-century choir, admire splendid stained glass windows from the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries, and see the tombs of the children of Charles VIII. Adjacent to the cathedral, the Psalette Cloister is composed of three galleries combining Flamboyant and Renaissance architecture. Tours' old town also includes the royal castle. One famous figure who spent time there was Joan of Arc, following her victory in Orleans. Today, it is a mecca for contemporary art.

Art and history enthusiasts should check out the city's various museums. Situated in the Goüin mansion with its Renaissance architecture, the Touraine Archaeological Museum documents the history of the region from Prehistory to the 18th century. The Museum of Fine Arts is located in the former Archbishops' Palace and exhibits works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. If you are a lover of fine vintages, the Touraine Wine Museum should appeal to you.

Then enjoy a little free time in one of the city's green spaces. The lush, verdant Prébendes d'Oé garden is ideal for a stroll. It is one of six Touraine gardens classified as "Remarkable Gardens". The Gloriette Park, meanwhile, is ideal for various outdoor activities and hosts many events such as the kite festival or music festivals.

We cannot talk about Tours without mentioning its wide range of entertainment for visitors. For instance the Light Trail (Parcours Lumière): over one kilometre, illuminated monuments tell the history of the city. In the summer, the Renaissance Nights offer a sound and light show projected onto the façades of the Museum of Fine Arts. Also worth mentioning is the summer guinguette (open-air café event) with its range of entertainment for young and old alike, which is always a great success.

Additional information Tours

City Tours is situated on the banks of the royal river, in the heart of the Loire Valley World Heritage listed by UNESCO. Capital of the kingdom from 1450 to 1550, the city of Gauls, The Turones, has never ceased to grow demographically and economically.

Originally small Gallo-Roman town perched on a hill protected from river floods, the city of Tours will spread more and more to join the Cher (a tributary of the Loire flowing 3 km further south) . With its port, the city of Tours will acquire great wealth allowing him to build one of the largest basilicas of the age: the Basilica of St. Martin. Destroyed, the fact remains today that two traces, the two towers: the Clock in the West, where stood the entrance, and Charlemagne Tower, 100 meters to the east, in the rue des Halles, paver color symbolize the floor where the pillars that supported the building.

Top Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages, the cult of St. Martin will give the city an international reputation. And through waterways (mainly the Loire), the influx of many craftsmen will give rise to huge fairs.

During the Renaissance, Tours and the Loire Valley in general will be the center of the kingdom of France, geographically, culturally, economically and politically. Also becoming a mecca for leather tanning.

Aristocratic city in the empire, here and there with beautiful homes will be built in the district including Prébendes.

The arrival of the train will cause many changes in economic and philosophical. Station and City Hall were built by the famous architect Victor Laloux (he has also the Gare d'Orsay in Paris, now converted into a Museum of Arts of the nineteenth).

Partly destroyed during the Second World War, the city will benefit from American assistance for the reconstruction of the city, in honor of this precious help, the old stone bridge rebuilt by the GI's will be renamed Wilson Bridge, the behalf of the President of the United States at the time (also located on the fountains and other library are gifts from the USA). Will follow the war boom and major urban projects of the iconic mayor (and deputy minister) Jean Royer: Congress Centre Vinci, HLM banks of the Cher, Two Lions Technopole.

Nougat (round cake made with almonds and candied fruit) is a specialty of the city. The other specialty is rillette Tours.

Things to see and do

• The historic district of medieval and Renaissance houses.
• Plumereau square with its cafés, always lively.
• The hotel Goüin.
• The Museum of Fine Arts and majestic cedar of Lebanon.
• The Museum of Companionship, unique in France.
• The area of the Cathedral Saint -Gatien.
• The Basilica of St. Martin.
• The Garden of Prébendes of Oë and beautiful magnolias.
• The Botanical Garden and the old buildings Bretonneau Hospital.
• Houses and Art Deco buildings, but also Haussmann style.
• City Hall and the Courthouse Place Jean Jaures.
• The park and the neighborhood of St. Radegund.
• The lake ( no swimming but sailing club ).
• The pool at the lake with his 5 outdoor pools / indoor (play pool for children, relaxation pools with massage jets, whirlpools, river rapids, slides and other traditional pools of different depths).
• The rink and the Palais des Sports, which frequently host events.

Leisure activities

Places of interest, events and festivities.

• Frequently garlic.
• Great flea market of Tours.
• Vitiloire .
• Tours sur Loire
• The Vocal Anthology.
• La Biennale Rays costs.
• The holidays Musical Touraine .
• The Academy Francis Poulenc.
• Aucard of Tours.
• Film Festivals: Bad gender, Night Studio.
• A Festival of Bubbles Tours.
• Emergence Festival (jazz).
• Total Meeting Festival (electronic music).
• Paris-Tours: cycling.
• 10 and 20 km from Tours.
• Christmas Market.
• From 3 to 12 may 2024
• Avenue Camille Chautemps
• As a major regional event, the Tours fair welcomes more than 300,000 visitors, seduced by the free admission to this event and by the products or services offered by the 700 exhibitors. Alongside the commercial space, a large gastronomic village meets with great success every year !
• From 25 to 26 may 2024
• Boulevard Heurteloup
• 35,000 visitors are expected in front of Tours train station for Vitiloire ! With nearly 150 exhibitors, winegrowers and food artisans, Vitiloire is the essential event in the Centre-Val de Loire region for Loire Valley wines. It is also an opportunity to discover the latest culinary trends.
• From 4 to 8 june 2024
• 33 route de Savonnières
• Let the show begin ! From the Chapit'auc to the Gloriette and Apérocks in local bars, with the sound on high and a touch of the wild, this combination of genres and generations has been a hit since 1986.
• From 28 to 30 june 2024
• Discover the world of manga, Japanese traditions and geek culture during an exceptional festival ! A weekend at the rhythm of the setting sun, not to be missed. - The biggest fair of the region, with animations and concerts for all as well as exceptional meetings !
• On 26 july 2024
• This tradition is said to date back to the Middle Ages. On Saint Anne day, July 26th, garlic and basil producers and enthusiasts come together for an event in one of the oldest neighbourhoods of Tours. Colours ranging from white, pink and green will highlight your stroll among the …

Detailed information

Visits, leisure and activities nearby

• Castles: Azay-le Rideau , Amboise , Chenonceau, Langeais , Chambord, Cheverny ...
• The Gardens of Villandry Castle Rivau, Valmer Castle, the Chatonnière.
• The cellars in Tours-sur-Loire, Vouvray , Bourgueil , Chinon .
• The valley of Goupillères troglodyte.
• The Houses of writers (Ronsard, Rabelais, Balzac ...).
• For children: tree climbing, karting, cycling ("Loire by bike") aquarium.
• For larger golf, rowing, canoeing ...

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Related articles Tours

Best things to do in the city of Tours, France

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

Table of Contents

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

Best things to do & see in Tours, France

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

The historic city center of Tours

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

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

Saint-Gatien Cathedral

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

Walk along the banks of the Loire river

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

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

The botanical garden

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

What to do near Tours, France?

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

Visit the amazing Loire Valley Castles

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

Meet Loire Valley wine growers

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

Take a Loire Valley Vineyard Day Trip

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

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

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

What is Tours, France known for?

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

Is tours a city in France?

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

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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

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St Paul’s Cathedral Visit With Its Incredible London Views

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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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Walking tours gaining popularity in European cities, says travel company

Thursday, 25 Apr 2024

If you want to visit tourist sites on foot, Rome may be your best bet, as there are tons of historical sites like the Roman Forum that are within city limits. — AFP

When it published its latest guide, Lonely Planet highlighted the trend to visit tourist sites on foot or by bike, as optimal means for slowly voyaging through unknown regions and really taking the time to discover them. Of course, some destinations are more suitable for this kind of travel than others.

Locals know that if you’re cycling in Paris, France you can usually outpace the cars. But using your legs is also a good way to get around. While this type of vacation is feasible in the City of Light, it’s less the case in other major tourist destinations around the globe such as London, England unless you concentrate solely on the must-sees around Big Ben and Westminster (but that would be a shame!).

The slower pace of travel on foot is in fact an approach gaining ground, and not only among backpackers, as spotted by the Lonely Planet guide at the end of 2023. So-called “soft” travel, or travelling “on foot or by bike”, is truly in vogue. For instance, the Portuguese Way, which links Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela, was an unprecedented success last year, according to Lonely Planet.

For a city break all on foot, Spain offers the most opportunities, according to searches and bookings made on the Guruwalk platform, which organises free pedestrian tours worldwide, spotted by The DailyMail.

In this Top 100 list of the best destinations to explore without ever relying on the metro or bus, Spain appears 28 times!

It’s worth remembering that the methodology of ranking is based above all on popular walking tours.

Other popular Spanish cities for these types of visits include Seville (15th), Toledo (16th), Valencia (21st) and Granada (27th).

France is another option for visiting the sites by foot. There are seven possibilities, including Paris (11th), Bordeaux (47th), Strasbourg (51st), Toulouse (67th), Nice (81st), Marseille (82nd) and Lyon (95th).

However, it is Rome that really stands out as the most popular destination for a visit without any means of transport.

Meanwhile, the only United States city on the list is New York in the 53rd spot. – AFP Relaxnews

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Tags / Keywords: Paris , Bordeaux , Walking Tours , Spain , Historical sites , Cycling , New York , France , Tourism , Rome

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"Tour de France Cycle City" label: soon 150 towns and 10 countries in the loop?

As part of its "Riding into the Future" programme to promote sustainable mobility, the Tour de France launched the "Tour de France Cycle City" label in 2021, encouraging all the initiatives taken by towns and cities that have already hosted the Grande Boucle to promote everyday cycling.

For this fourth edition, the Tour de France and the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift have received bids from 24 cities, including six outside France. This year, 16 towns on the 2024 Tour de France route have applied, and two are on the 2024 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift map, which should take the number of approved cities to 150... in 10 different countries!

The results will be announced on 15 May as part of the “Mai à vélo” (Bike in May) campaign.

150! That's the symbolic milestone the "Tour de France Cycle City" label could reach in its fourth edition. This initiative, created in 2021, enables towns that have already hosted the Grande Boucle to have their commitment to developing cycling in all its forms assessed and rewarded. Whether they are French or foreign, rural or urban, towns applying for the label must highlight all the existing measures to encourage cycling in their application and present local short- and medium-term development plans (infrastructure deployment, improving rider safety, learning to cycle with the "How to ride a bike" campaign, parking and combating theft, maintenance and repair, etc.). All these measures contribute to the growth of cycling as a means of daily transport, a source of leisure, and exercise.  

Since 2021, 133 cities in eight countries have already received at least one level of accreditation. With 24 applications, the 2024 campaign could see the number of towns and cities recognised for promoting cycling rise to 150. In addition to the new French and Belgian cities that could appear on the map, two new territories are about to join the club, representing ten countries with towns awarded the label! Italy, where the Tour de France will set off on 29 June for the first time in its history, has three candidates: Rimini, Piacenza and Pinerolo. More exotic still, Japan, which for over ten years has welcomed the champions of the Grande Boucle to Saitama in the middle of autumn as part of a festive criterium reminiscent of the Asian craze for the event, could also be in the running!  

Sixteen French towns on the route of the 2024 Tour and two others on the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift submitted bids, from Evaux-les-Bains, the least populous of the candidate towns, to Nice, the host town of a new and spectacular finish of the Tour de France on 21 July, reflecting the diversity of bids once again this year for a label that allows towns to showcase their assets on their scale. Four French cities that have hosted the event in the past have also applied, while two municipalities that have already received the label have requested a reassessment of their rating. The jury is now studying all the applications. The results will be announced to the candidate cities on 15 May 2024 as part of the "Bike in May" campaign.  

Composition of the jury for the "Tour de France Cycle City" label: Christian Prudhomme, Director of the Tour de France; Émilie Defay, deputy editor-in-chief at France Bleu Paris; Jean Ghedira, director of communications, sponsorship and general secretariat at LCL; David Lazarus, mayor of Chambly and chairman of the "Sports" working group of the Association des Maires de France; Olivier Schneider, president of the FUB (French Federation of Bicycle Users); Karine Bozzacchi, CSR manager for the Tour de France.  

Candidate cities for the 2024 label:  

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