Things To Do
in Thouars
Thouars is a historic town in the Deux-Sèvres department of western France, perched along the Thouet River. It boasts a picturesque medieval core with timber-framed houses, a commanding château, and winding streets that invite relaxed exploration. The town serves as a quiet gateway to the Poitou countryside, offering pleasant markets, riverside strolls, and easy access to regional vineyards.
With a friendly, small-town atmosphere, Thouars makes for a charming weekend retreat or a leisurely cultural detour from larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing stroll through the cobblestone streets of Thouars, absorbing the charm of medieval architecture. Visit the impressive Château de Thouars, where you can explore the grounds and learn about its history through informative displays. Stop by a local bakery for a fresh pastry, savoring the delightful flavors of traditional French cuisine.
After lunch at a quaint café, head to the Notre Dame Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Musée de Thouars, where art and local history come together in an engaging exhibition. Wrap up the afternoon with a leisurely walk in Parc de la Brèche, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
As the sun sets, find a cozy bistro for dinner, indulging in regional specialties paired with a glass of local wine. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Thouet River, where the reflections of the historic buildings create a picturesque scene. Conclude your day by enjoying a performance at the local theater, immersing yourself in the cultural offerings of the town.
Start your day at the bustling Thouars market, where you can explore stalls filled with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and handmade goods. Engage with local vendors to learn about their products and perhaps pick up some ingredients for a picnic. After browsing the market, savor a traditional French breakfast at a nearby café, complete with coffee and croissants.
After your market experience, take a cooking class where you can learn to prepare classic French dishes under the guidance of a local chef. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit down to an authentic lunch featuring the dishes you’ve created. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the town, visiting local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs.
For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its regional dishes, sampling local delicacies like goat cheese or duck confit. As night falls, enjoy a walk through the illuminated streets, appreciating the charm of Thouars after dark. End your evening with a nightcap at a local wine bar, discussing your culinary adventures with newfound friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $5-8 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and a picturesque, walkable town center
- Relaxed pace with easy access to the countryside
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
- Public transport options within town can be limited; best explored by car or bike
- "Bonjour" - Hello (good day)
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Thouars
Visit one of these nice places.
The château’s silhouette against the sky makes for iconic photos, especially from the surrounding streets or riverside vantage points.
Photograph the narrow lanes and preserved half-timbered façades that define Thouars’ historic center.
Soft light along the river with reflections of trees and bridges provides tranquil photo opportunities.
The town’s churches offer intricate stonework and stained glass details ideal for architectural photography.
Food in Thouars
Thouars Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional savory pie featuring meat or hearty fillings; best tasted in a traditional bistro that specializes in Poitevin classics.
Must-Try!
Fresh goat cheese from nearby farms, often served with crusty bread, olive oil, and honey or fig jam.
Freshwater trout prepared with a light butter-lemon sauce, a nod to the Thouet’s riverine heritage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering local cheese, vegetables, meats, bread, and regional specialties; great for sampling seasonal produce.
Covered shopping halls with a mix of vendors selling ready-to-eat options, pastries, and artisanal products.
Seasonal pop-ups along the riverfront offering simple, local dishes and snacks during warm-weather evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening). A friendly hello goes a long way in shops and cafés.
Stand in line patiently; speak softly and avoid loud conversations in public spaces.
Keep hands on the table but not elbows; use utensils for most dishes; say 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' when interacting with staff.
Safety
Tipping in Thouars
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is typically included (service compris) at many restaurants. If not, a small tip of 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; cash is still commonly used in small venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm temperatures, and lively riverside terraces. Markets and open-air events are common; stay hydrated and use sun protection for daytime exploring.
Harvest time brings seasonal produce and harvest-related events. Cooler evenings pair well with wine tastings and cozy dinners.
Chillier days with possible rain. Markets indoors provide shelter, and festive lights brighten the town center in December.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes. Great for walking along the river and enjoying outdoor cafés as the town wakes up after winter.
Thouars at Night
Hiking in Thouars
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails along the river, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A network of short hikes through farmland and small villages, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Thouars by plane.
Closest regional airport with domestic and some international connections; reachable by car in about 1 hour.
Major western France airport offering broader international connections; about 2 hours by car or train.
Regional airport serving central France; convenient for accessing the Loire Valley region; roughly 1.5-2 hours away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, couples, and retirees, maintaining a preserved historic center and community-oriented lifestyle.
Some international visitors and students explore Thouars as a peaceful base for regional travel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the region with local clubs and community fields.
Excellent for exploring the countryside and river paths; routes suited for all levels.
A common pastime in town squares and cafés, especially during warm evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thouars.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in Thouars’ bistros and cafés. Look for salads with local cheese, vegetable tarts, goat cheese plates, and vegetable-based mains; in some places, request no meat stock and request eggs or dairy to meet vegetarian preferences.