Things To Do
in Tours
Tours is a picturesque city located in the Loire Valley region of France known for its charming old town and historic architecture. The city is home to beautiful half-timbered houses, grand chateaux, and scenic parks along the Loire River. Tours is also famous for its gastronomy, with traditional French cuisine and local wines to savor.
Visitors can explore the city's rich cultural heritage, including museums, art galleries, and quaint shops selling artisanal goods.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $60
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Basilica of Saint Martin. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of the old town afterwards.
Visit the ChĂąteau de Tours and its beautiful gardens for a peaceful afternoon. Enjoy a picnic nearby while soaking in the history.
Dine at a local bistro and sample traditional French cuisine. End your night with a peaceful walk along the Loire River.
Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts to admire an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures. Take some time to explore the surrounding gardens.
Join a guided tour of the historic Ronsard House for a glimpse into the life of the famous poet. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring local artisan shops.
Experience an evening performance at the Grand Théùtre de Tours. Savor a dessert at a nearby café to cap off your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including stunning architecture and ancient sites.
- Charming and picturesque scenery along the Loire River.
- Vibrant local culture with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
- Delicious gastronomy, known for local wines and regional cuisine.
- Accessibility to other major cities in France, making it a great base for exploration.
- Smaller size compared to major French cities means fewer activities and attractions.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger urban areas.
- Areas can become crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Weather can be variable, particularly in spring and autumn.
- Language barrier for non-French speakers may pose challenges in communication.
Best Activities in Tours
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic cobblestone streets, charming squares, and beautiful architecture of Tours' Old Town on a leisurely walking tour.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the picturesque Loire River, passing vineyards, chateaux, and idyllic countryside.
Take a tranquil boat tour on the Cher River to admire the scenic landscapes and stunning riverside castles.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tours with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tours
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval square lined with half-timbered houses, a popular spot for dining and socializing.
Historic basilica offering panoramic views of Tours from the top of its towers.
Beautiful gardens with a lake, flowers, and walking paths, perfect for photography.
Food in Tours
Tours Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory spread made from pork or duck, often enjoyed with crusty bread and a glass of local wine. Try it at Les Halles de Tours.
Must-Try!
A delicious upside-down apple tart with caramelized fruit. Savor this iconic dessert at L'Antre Amis.
A sausage delicacy made from tripe and pork chitterlings, typically served with mustard and pommes frites. Sample it at Au Fin Bec.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tours better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local delicacies, from fresh fruits and vegetables to gourmet cheese, charcuterie, and regional wines. It's an ideal place to immerse yourself in the local food culture.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this square is lined with charming cafes and bistros offering classic French street food such as crepes, galettes, and tasty local snacks. It's a great spot to grab a quick bite while soaking up the city's ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tours, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and a friendly 'Bonjour' (good morning) or 'Bonsoir' (good evening) depending on the time of day.
When dining in Tours, it's important to observe proper table manners, such as keeping your hands visible on the table and using utensils rather than eating with your hands.
Tours is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, so it's important to show respect when visiting historical sites and landmarks by following any posted rules and refraining from behavior that could damage or disrespect the property.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tours with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tours
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Tours, France is not as common as it is in some other countries. In restaurants, a service charge is usually included in the bill, so tipping is not necessary. However, leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service is always welcome.
In Tours, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case you come across establishments that do not accept cards. Contactless payment methods are also gaining popularity in many shops and restaurants.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tours.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor events. Expect mild temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Peak tourist season with warm weather, vibrant festivals, and longer daylight hours. Expect crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices.
Beautiful fall foliage, fewer tourists, and lower hotel rates. Expect cooler temperatures and occasional rainy days.
Quiet time for tourism, lower hotel prices, and festive Christmas markets. Expect chilly weather and shorter daylight hours.
Tours at Night
Hiking in Tours
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast natural park featuring a variety of hiking trails along the Loire River, offering stunning views and a diverse ecosystem.
A beautiful forest area with numerous trails for hiking, located near Chinon, this spot is perfect for nature lovers and offers a peaceful environment.
A scenic walking path through vineyards, providing a unique blend of nature and local wine culture, ideal for leisurely hikes.
A picturesque village with several hiking trails that take you through the countryside and along the Vienne River, showcasing charming landscapes.
While known for its stunning gardens, Parc de Villandry also features walking paths and trails that can be explored while enjoying the views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tours through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tours by plane.
The closest airport, mainly serving regional flights.
An international airport located in Nantes, approximately 200 km from Tours.
An international airport in Bordeaux, about 350 km from Tours.
France's largest international airport, located approximately 250 km from Tours.
Another major international airport, situated around 500 km from Tours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population consisting of individuals born in France or with French citizenship.
A significant demographic group, primarily from countries such as Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Includes people from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Individuals from other European countries who have relocated to Tours, though they make up a smaller percentage of the population.
Includes individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Tours.
Encompasses various smaller ethnic and cultural minorities within the city.
The Soul of Tours
Discover the essence of Tours through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Tours, with several local clubs participating in regional and national leagues.
Basketball has a strong following in Tours, with local teams and youth programs promoting the sport.
Rugby is another popular sport in Tours, with established clubs and a vibrant community of players and fans.
Cycling is both a competitive sport and a recreational activity, thanks to the scenic routes around Tours.
Tennis is enjoyed by many residents of Tours, with facilities and clubs available for players of all levels.
Athletics events and training are popular in Tours, supported by local athletics clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tours.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tours' culinary scene is increasingly accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes crafted from locally sourced produce. Notable venues include Le Bistrot de Xavier and Le Mange Grenouille.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at several establishments in Tours, such as Les Gourmandises de Miyuko and Le Cocorico. These venues offer gluten-free menus or dishes tailored to dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tours with these cultural adventures.
