A Weekend of Culture and Cuisine in Tours

Experience the charming history and beauty of Tours, France.

22 April 2023

Tours, France is a charming medieval city located in the heart of the Loire Valley. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by wandering the narrow streets of its Old Town, admire the stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture of its many churches and cathedrals, and indulge in some of the best wine and cuisine the country has to offer. A trip to Tours is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a mixture of culture, history, and gastronomy.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check-in at the charming Hotel Univers situated in the city center
  • Start your tour with a visit to the half-timbered Houses of the Old Town
  • Take in the view from the 15th-century Tour Charlemagne
  • Enjoy lunch at the cozy and authentic Les Halles de Tours
  • Head to Musee des Beaux-Arts for an afternoon of art appreciation
  • Finish the day with a glass of local wine at the cozy L'Heure Tranquille
Day 2

Castles and Gardens

  • Pack a picnic and catch a train to Chateau de Chenonceau
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the incredible gardens
  • Return to Tours and discover the gardens of Botanic de la Presle
  • Enjoy a traditional dinner at the atmospheric La Roche le Roy restaurant
  • Sip on local craft beer at the funky La Brasserie de la Pigeonnelle
  • End the day with a walk under the stars along La Loire River
Day 3

Vineyards and Wines

  • Get up early and set off to see the Caves visit in Vouvray
  • Sample the crisp and refreshing Chenin Blanc wines
  • Head back to Tours, and pop into the delightful Creperie Le Bengal
  • Explore the vineyards of Domaine de la Noblaie by bike or foot
  • Discover Loire wines at the medieval-style winery La Cave Tourangelle
  • Finish with a gastronomic dinner at the Michelin-starred L'Atelier des Augustins
Day 4

Local Markets and a Show

  • Explore the local market of Les Halles de Tours for breakfast
  • Take a walk for unique discoveries at Parc des Expositions, venue for events
  • Relax for some shopping beneath the neon lights of the La Galerie shopping mall
  • See a show at the stunning Theatre Olympia, preserved in classic 1920s style
  • Satisfy your hunger pangs at the lively Les Antiquaires Bar
  • End your evening on a high note in the cellar nightclub of Le Grenier a Bieres
  • Enjoy your time in Tours!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tours, France by plane is to fly into Tours Val de Loire Airport. There are also options to fly into Paris airports and take a train or bus to Tours.

Car

The best way to get to Tours, France by car is to take the A10 motorway, which connects Tours to Paris, Bordeaux, and other major cities in France.

Train

Tours has its own train station, Tours Centre, which can be reached by train from several major cities in France, including Paris, Bordeaux, and Nantes.

Boat

Since Tours is not located on the coast, the best way to get there by boat is to take a river cruise on the Loire River, which passes through the city. There are several companies that offer river cruises on the Loire River.

Bus

The best way to get to Tours, France by bus is to take a coach from Paris, which takes about two and a half hours. There are also options to take a coach from other cities in France and neighboring countries.

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Tours, France offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and family-friendly activities for an unforgettable trip. The city is known for its stunning historic architecture, such as the iconic Cathedral of Saint Gatien and the Château de Tours, which provide ample opportunities for sightseeing. Families can also enjoy outdoor adventures at the nearby Loire Valley, with its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and cycling paths along the river.

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