Things To Do
in Thouars

Thouars is a charming town located in the Deux-Sèvres department of France, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The town features medieval streets, vibrant markets, and a stunning castle that overlooks the Thouet River. With a population of around 10,000, it offers a quaint atmosphere while still providing modern amenities.

Thouars is an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding region, including the nearby Loire Valley.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Thouars
morning
:

Begin your day at the Château de Thouars, where you can explore the beautiful grounds and learn about the history of the castle.

afternoon
:

Head to the old town center to stroll through the medieval streets, visiting the Church of Saint-Médard and the local artisan shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local bistro, followed by a leisurely walk along the Thouet River as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Culture
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Parc des Expositions to see if any local markets or fairs are happening.

afternoon
:

Take a hike in the nearby forest of Saint-Maixent, followed by a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a wine tasting at a local vineyard, sampling some of the regional specialties.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥖Baguette$1.50
🍷Glass of Wine$4.00
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15.00
Coffee$2.50
🚌Bus Ticket$1.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Charming and walkable town with friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some restaurants may have limited vegetarian choices.
  • Public transport options are less frequent.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Thouars

Visit one of these nice places.

Château de Thouars

Capture stunning views of the castle and its reflection in the Thouet River.

Old Town Streets

The narrow cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop.

Parc des Expositions

A beautiful public park, perfect for nature photography and scenic walks.

Culinary Guide

Food in Thouars

Thouars offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional French cuisine with local specialties.

Thouars Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pâté de Puy

A savory pork pâté that is a local favorite, often served with crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Chabichou du Poitou

A creamy goat cheese from the Poitou region, known for its distinct flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Thouars Market

Held every Saturday morning, this market offers fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Thouars experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with spring and autumn being particularly pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep both hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals.

Politeness

Use 's'il vous plaît' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) frequently in interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Thouars is generally a safe town, but like any travel destination, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to keep valuables secured and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Thouars

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in France, but leaving a small amount (5-10%) is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is advisable for markets and small cafes.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be warm with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F), perfect for vineyard visits.

Autumn

Fall brings colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a beautiful time for hiking.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, with occasional frost, but the town's festive decorations create a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Thouars at Night

Thouars has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafes that offer live music and local events. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often gather for a drink after work. For a livelier experience, consider visiting nearby larger towns that offer more options for nightlife entertainment.

Hiking in Thouars

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier de la Vallée du Thouet

A scenic hiking trail that follows the Thouet River, offering beautiful views and diverse wildlife.

Circuit des Moulins

A trail that takes you past several historic mills, providing both a cultural and natural experience.

Airports

How to reach Thouars by plane.

Poitiers-Biard Airport

Approximately 50 km from Thouars, this small airport offers regional flights and connections to larger cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Thouars is a very walkable town, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The cobblestone streets add to the charm, and walking is a pleasant way to explore local shops, cafes, and historical sites. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to navigate on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Thouars has a growing population of young families attracted by the town's amenities and schools.

Retirees

Many retirees are drawn to the area for its peaceful lifestyle and beautiful surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Thouars, with local clubs and community games attracting many fans.

Cycling

The region's scenic routes make cycling a favored pastime, with many organized events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Thouars is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes regular bus services connecting to nearby towns. Parking is available in designated areas, but it's advisable to check local regulations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Thouars.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available, but limited, especially in local bakeries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Thouars is good, with a local hospital and several clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide