General Information
Tours, often called the “Gateway to the Loire Valley,” is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. Known for its beautiful old town, stunning cathedrals, and proximity to famous Loire Valley castles, Tours is a must-visit destination for history lovers, foodies, and wine enthusiasts. With its charming riverside setting and a lively student population, the city offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.
Location
Tours is located in central France, in the Centre-Val de Loire region. It sits on the Loire River, making it an ideal base for exploring the famous Loire Valley châteaux. The city is about 240 km (150 miles) southwest of Paris, easily accessible by train or car.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Tours Val de Loire Airport (TUF) offers limited European flights.
- Paris Orly (ORY) and Charles de Gaulle (CDG) are major international airports, about 1.5–2 hours away.
- By Train:
- TGV high-speed trains from Paris Montparnasse to Tours take just 1 hour.
- Direct trains also connect to Bordeaux, Nantes, and Lyon.
- By Car:
- Accessible via the A10 motorway from Paris (2.5 hours).
- Well-connected to major Loire Valley destinations.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus and BlaBlaBus offer affordable routes from Paris and other cities.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Best for vineyard tours, mild weather, and fewer tourists.
- Summer (July – August): Ideal for castle visits, river cruises, and outdoor dining.
- Autumn (September – October): Wine harvest season with fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors.
- Winter (November – February): Quieter but magical, with Christmas markets and cozy cafés.
Key Festivals & Events:
- Vitiloire Wine Festival (May): A celebration of Loire Valley wines.
- Tours Jazz Festival (June): A must for music lovers.
- Christmas Market (December): One of the most charming in the region.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Château Belmont Tours: A stunning 4-star hotel with a spa.
- Clarion Hôtel Château Belmont: A mix of historic charm and modern comfort.
- Mid-range:
- Oceania L’Univers Tours: A stylish hotel near the train station.
- Hôtel Ronsard: A charming boutique hotel in the city center.
- Budget:
- Ibis Tours Centre Gare: Affordable and well-located.
- The People Hostel – Tours: A modern, budget-friendly option.
- Unique Stays:
- Château de Beaulieu: A luxury castle stay just outside the city.
- Loire Valley Treehouse Retreats: Stay in a unique treehouse near Tours.
Top Attractions
- Old Town (Vieux Tours): A lively historic district with half-timbered houses, charming squares, and cafés.
- Saint-Gatien Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral with impressive stained glass.
- Place Plumereau: The city’s most beautiful square, perfect for dining and people-watching.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts: A fine arts museum with works by Rubens, Delacroix, and Rembrandt.
- Loire River Walks & Cruises: Explore the scenic riverbanks by foot, bike, or boat.
- Basilica of Saint Martin: A key pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours.
- Jardin Botanique de Tours: A peaceful botanical garden, great for a relaxing stroll.
Getting Around
- Walking: The city center is very pedestrian-friendly.
- Public Transport: Efficient tram and bus network (Fil Bleu) connects all major attractions.
- Bike Rentals: Available via the Vélociti bike-sharing system.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and Uber are widely available.
Local Cuisine
- Rillettes de Tours: A delicious pork pâté spread, a local specialty.
- Sainte-Maure de Touraine: A famous goat cheese from the Loire Valley.
- Tarte Tatin: A caramelized upside-down apple tart, originally from the region.
- Loire Valley Wines: Try Chinon, Vouvray, and Sancerre wines.
Best Restaurants:
- L’Embellie: A Michelin-recommended spot with modern French cuisine.
- Le Saint-Honoré: A cozy bistro known for its Loire Valley specialties.
- La Deuvalière: A hidden gem with a fantastic local menu.
Shopping
- Rue Nationale: The main shopping street with boutiques and department stores.
- Les Halles de Tours: A covered market with fresh produce, cheeses, and wines.
- Maison Hardouin: The best place to buy rillettes and other local delicacies.
Nightlife
- Les Trois Orfèvres: A trendy cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere.
- Le Serpent Volant: A cool jazz bar with live music.
- Le Strapontin: A wine bar with a great selection of local wines.
- Le Palais: A stylish nightclub for dancing and late-night fun.
Day Trips from Tours
- Château de Chambord: One of France’s most famous castles, known for its stunning Renaissance architecture.
- Château de Chenonceau: A breathtaking castle built over the Cher River.
- Amboise: A charming town with Château d’Amboise and Leonardo da Vinci’s home.
- Villandry Gardens: One of the most beautiful gardens in France.
- Bourgueil & Chinon: Perfect for wine tasting in historic vineyards.
