Tours, France: A Whimsical 5-Day Family Adventure

Discover the enchanting heart of France with a fun-filled family adventure in Tours!

19 July 2023

Tours, France offers a delightful family-friendly vacation full of history, culture, and fun activities. Explore the captivating medieval architecture of the historic city center or take a scenic boat ride along the beautiful Loire River, surrounded by stunning castles. The city is also known for its excellent museums and parks, providing endless opportunities for educational and recreational experiences for the whole family to enjoy.

Travel plan

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Day 1

The Wandering Welcome

  • Check into the Hotel des Chateaux, a charming family-friendly abode that exudes a cozy countryside atmosphere.
  • Stretch your legs with a leisurely stroll along the Loire River, where the tranquil waters whisper tales of ancient castles and poetic romances.
  • Dive into history at the Chateau de Tours, a majestic fortress that once protected the city, now flaunting its architectural grandeur and housing the Museum of Fine Arts.
  • Savor a delightful dinner at La Guinguette de Tours, a picturesque riverside spot serving traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.
  • As the night drifts in, sip on some local wines at Le Zinc Gourmand, a cozy little bar offering an extensive selection of grape delights.
Day 2

Castles & Confections

  • Embark on a fairytale adventure to the nearby Chateau de Villandry, famous for its splendid Renaissance gardens that seem to bloom magically before your eyes.
  • Treat your taste buds to heavenly pleasures at Maison Planchot, a patisserie brimming with delectable pastries and chocolates that rival Willy Wonka's creations.
  • Let the kids unleash their inner knights and princesses at a fun-filled visit to Chateau d'Ussé, which inspired the enchanted castle in the tale of Sleeping Beauty.
  • Venture back to Tours for an authentic culinary experience at Les Halles de Tours, a lively indoor market offering an array of regional delicacies.
  • Unwind with a leisurely evening walk through the charming streets of the Old Town, admiring the half-timbered houses and soaking up the ambiance.
Day 3

Biking & Picnicking

  • Rent bicycles from Vélo’TOURS, the perfect mode of transport to discover the city and its surroundings at a leisurely pace.
  • Pedal your way to the Parc de Sainte-Radegonde, a serene green expanse where you can enjoy a picturesque picnic under the shade of ancient trees.
  • Delve into the mysteries of the underground at the Cave des Producteurs de Montlouis-sur-Loire, where you can sample local wines and learn about the art of winemaking.
  • Continue your exploration on two wheels with a ride along the Loire à Vélo bicycle trail, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of France's longest river.
  • Relish a well-deserved dinner at L'Etape Gourmande, a cozy restaurant specializing in delectable regional cuisine, from succulent rillettes to savory Loire fish.
Day 4

Charming Towns & River Cruises

  • Hop on a boat tour along the Loire River, marveling at the idyllic landscapes that inspired countless artists and writers throughout the ages.
  • Embark on a day trip to the captivating town of Amboise, where you can explore the royal Chateau d'Amboise and pay homage to Leonardo da Vinci at his final resting place.
  • Treat the family to a delightful lunch at La Cave à Béret, a charming eatery where you can savor traditional French fare bursting with flavors.
  • Discover the quaint village of Rochecorbon and its fascinating troglodyte dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life.
  • As the sun sets, return to Tours for a delightful evening performance at the Opéra de Tours, showcasing the talent and passion of local artists.
Day 5

Farewell with Flair

  • Begin the day with a visit to the bustling Les Halles market, where you can pick up some delectable local produce and artisanal treats for a gourmet picnic.
  • Take a leisurely stroll to the Jardin Botanique de Tours, a charming botanical garden bursting with vibrant flora from around the world.
  • Treat the family to a final feast at Le Petit Patrimoine, a charming restaurant housed in a historic building, serving up a delightful fusion of local and international flavors.
  • Bid farewell to Tours with a visit to the Musée du Compagnonnage, where you can delve into the fascinating world of French craftsmanship and marvel at intricate trades.
  • Depart with memories of a whimsical adventure, carrying a piece of the enchanting Loire Valley in your heart.

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.

More travel plans

Two Days of Budget Bliss in Tours, France

Visiting Tours, France on a limited budget is not hard to achieve with the city's affordable accommodations, free attractions, and cheap transportation. Take a self-guided walking tour of the charming old town and enjoy some of the local delicacies at one of the farmer's markets. Explore the beautiful Château de Villandry with its stunning Renaissance gardens or take a bike ride along the scenic Loire River.

Tours, France: A Whimsical 5-Day Family Adventure

Tours, France offers a delightful family-friendly vacation full of history, culture, and fun activities. Explore the captivating medieval architecture of the historic city center or take a scenic boat ride along the beautiful Loire River, surrounded by stunning castles. The city is also known for its excellent museums and parks, providing endless opportunities for educational and recreational experiences for the whole family to enjoy.

Escape to Tours: A 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Tours, France is a charming city filled with romantic atmosphere perfect for a couple's getaway. Meander through the picturesque Old Town, take a stroll along the Loire River, and indulge in the region's famous wines and cuisine. Tours provides a cozy and intimate ambiance that will make any couple fall in love all over again.

Tours for Two: Romantic Day Trip Itinerary

Tours is a charming city in the Loire Valley, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural heritage. Its historical châteaux, vineyards, and gardens make it a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll along the charming streets and enjoy the romantic ambiance of the city, while indulging in delicious French cuisine and wine.