Tours City
Located in the heart of France, on the banks of the Loire and Cher rivers, Tours stands out as the capital of the department of’Indre-et-Loire as well as the Centre-Val de Loire. A city with a rich history, it is also a vibrant center of culture and gastronomy, promising visitors a myriad of enriching and entertaining experiences.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the many facets of Tours. In it, you'll discover a heritage exceptional, consisting of monuments historical, museums, castles, gardens, and charming neighborhoods—all of which have made this city famous.
We will also provide you with practical recommendations to help you hosting, your travel plans, dining options, and access to various local services. In addition, you’ll be given an overview of the cultural calendar and events that bring Tours to life throughout the seasons, inviting you to fully immerse yourself in your exploration of this illustrious city.
Discover Tours: a rich and diverse heritage
With more than 2,000 years of history, Tours offers a fascinating blend of’architecture, art, and culture. No matter what your interests are—art, history, nature—you’ll be charmed and relaxed in Tours. Check out these suggestions to enjoy the city in all its facets.
The Fascinating History of Tours
Founded in the 1st century B.C. by the Romans under the name Caesarodunum, Tours has played crucial roles throughout history. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Touraine, and later served as a residence for the kings of France in the 15th and 16th centuries.
From the Hundred Years' War to the Renaissance and the Revolution, its impact on French history is undeniable. Discover this history by visiting the cathedral Saint-Gatien, the Basilica of Saint-Martin, the Château de Tours, and City Hall.
Take a step back in time in the Vieux-Tours district, particularly around Place Plumereau, which is lined with medieval half-timbered houses.
Not-to-be-missed highlights
A city of art and culture, Tours is home to museums, galleries, and venues for a variety of performances. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Compagnonnage Museum with its masterpieces of craftsmanship, and the Olivier Debré Center for Contemporary Art are among the places to visit. Theater, music, dance, and circus performances are regularly held at the Grand Théâtre, the Nouvel Olympia, and the Espace Malraux.
Green spaces and places to relax
Tours turns out to be a green oasis, bordered by the Loire and the Cher rivers, offering landscapes classified by the’UNESCO. The city's gardens—such as the Botanical Garden, the Prébendes Garden, and the Mirabeau Garden—are perfect for relaxation. The Gloriette Amusement Park, with its wide variety of activities, promises fun for everyone.
Staying in Tours: tips and tricks for a successful stay
Whether you're a student, tourist or professional, Tours, a charming city full of life, promises a stay rich in discovery and comfort. It offers a wide range of accommodation, dining and transport options to meet every need.
To help you make the most of your stay in Tours, follow these tips and tricks.
Finding the ideal home
No matter what your budget or needs may be, Tours offers a wide range of options for’hosting : hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and student housing. Reservations can be made easily online, by phone, or in person.
Discounts and special offers are often available, depending on the season or the length of your stay. Visit the Tours Tourist Office website to find the accommodations that best suit your needs.
gastronomy Tourangelle: Where to Eat?
The city of Tours, renowned for its culinary culture, invites you to discover the culinary delights of Touraine and the Loire Valley. Food lovers can sample local specialties such as goat cheese, rillettes de Tours, tapées pears, and Loire Valley wines, as well as a variety of traditional dishes.
A wide variety of restaurants, brasseries, bistros, crêperies, and tea rooms are at your disposal, offering diverse menus to suit all tastes and budgets. To find the best places to eat, the Tours Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s website is an invaluable resource.
Getting around Tours and the surrounding area
Getting to Tours and getting around the city and its surrounding areas is easy thanks to an excellent public transportation system. Whether you arrive by plane, train, bus, or car, you’ll find a wide range of options for getting around: tram, bus, bicycle, taxi, and, of course, vehicle rentals, such as cars and scooters.
Ticketing and subscription solutions are available to suit your mobility needs. To explore the different means of transport and choose the one best suited to your needs, visit the Métropole de Tours website.
Cultural agenda and events: live Tours at 100%
Tours, known for its vibrancy and festive spirit, offers a diverse range of cultural and artistic events throughout the year. Whether your passion lies in music, theater, dance, film, or literature, Tours is sure to satisfy your thirst for culture and entertainment.
Let's explore some of the city's not-to-be-missed festivals and events.
Festivals and cultural events
Tours is known for hosting festivals of national and international stature that celebrate diversity and artistic creativity. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, such as concerts, performances, exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and meet-and-greets with artists.
Don't miss: the Japan Tours Festival, for lovers of Japanese culture; the “37° in the Shade” Festival, featuring captivating street performances; the Tours Guitar Festival, bringing together virtuosos of the instrument; and the Rayons Frais Festival, offering free performances in the heart of the Tours gardens.
Activities and leisure for the whole family
The city of Tours is also ideal for family outings, offering a myriad of activities for young and old alike. Enjoy entertainment, games, workshops, and guided tours organized by institutions such as museums, monuments historic sites, libraries, and cultural centers. Explore the city in a fun and innovative way with walks led by a greeter, costumed guided tours, or scavenger hunts.
For family fun, visit the Gloriette leisure park, a space dedicated to sports, leisure and educational activities for all.
Shopping and local crafts
The city is also a great place for shopping and discovering local crafts. Stroll through its streets and markets to find quality products, such as the famous Loire wines, goat cheeses, tapées pears, and fruit tarts. You can also admire the work of local artisans—including potters, glassblowers, cabinetmakers, and jewelers—who contribute to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Don't miss the sales and clearance periods for bargains.
Conclusion
Tours, the city where everything invites you to charm: with its historical heritage A vibrant atmosphere, exquisite and diverse cuisine, a comfortable and affordable lifestyle, efficient public transportation, and enriching cultural and artistic events. Add to that a wide variety of activities for all ages, as well as an exceptional selection of shops and artisanal products. Tours is a destination to be fully experienced and cherished.
Don't wait any longer—plan your getaway to Tours today and immerse yourself in the splendor of this incomparable city. It's an experience you won't soon forget!
FAQ
What's the city of Tours like?
The city, located in western France and nestled between the Loire and the Cher rivers, stands out for its vibrant academic and cultural life. This city in the Centre-Val de Loire region shines both on the sports scene and through its high-quality amenities. Tours is known for its vibrant neighborhood life, which fosters a dense network of local services.
It is also famous for its rich heritage historical and architectural. Among its treasures are the prestigious châteaux of the Loire Valley, a captivating historic center, remarkable religious buildings, and the Château de Tours.
What cities are close to Tours?
Surrounding the commune are the communes of the Tours Val de Loire metropolis, including Ballan-Miré, Berthenay, Chambray-lès-Tours, Chanceaux-sur-Choisille, Druye, Fondettes, Joué-lès-Tours and Luynes. Also less than 10 km away are Saint-Cyr-sur-Loire, La Riche, Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, Saint-Avertin, Rochecorbon and La Ville-aux-Dames.
Is Tours a big city?
Recognized as a major city in western France, Tours is the beating heart of the Indre-et-Loire department and the Centre-Val de Loire region. With a catchment area of more than 500,000 residents, it ranks among France’s largest metropolitan areas. Tours enjoys a well-established reputation for its historical heritage and the châteaux of the Loire Valley, making it a must-see destination on the country’s cultural and tourist map.
Which district to visit in Tours?
The city’s soul is revealed through its neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. For a deep dive into history, the Vieux-Tours neighborhood offers an exceptional view with its half-timbered houses, the famous Place Plumereau, and chateaunine, not to mention the Basilica of Saint-Martin, the Charlemagne Tower, and the ruins of bygone eras. For lovers of contemporary art, the Olivier Debré Center for Contemporary Creation (CCCOD) is a vibrant space that combines exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events within a architecture resolutely modern.
