Tours on a budget: 5 days of French fun

Discover charming Tours on a tight budget.

21 June 2023

A trip to Tours, France on a limited budget can still provide a delightful experience for travelers. The city offers budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels, and plenty of restaurants with affordable menus. There are also several free or low-cost attractions to explore, such as the magnificent Cathedral of St. Gatien and the Jardin Botanique.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrivée à Tours

  • Check into Hotel des Arts, centrally located and budget-friendly
  • Take a stroll through the historic district, admiring the half-timbered buildings and charming boutiques
  • Enjoy a traditional French dinner at Chez Marcel, known for their beef bourguignon and extensive wine selection
Day 2

A Day of Châteaux

  • Rent a bike and cycle to Château de Villandry, known for its stunning gardens and art exhibitions
  • Visit Château de Blois, with its mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and fascinating history
  • End the day with a glass of wine at Cave des Producteurs de Vouvray, a local winery and cooperative
Day 3

Museums and Markets

  • Start the day at the Musée des Beaux Arts, where you can admire works by Monet and Rubens among others
  • Visit the bustling marché de Tours to sample local cheeses, meats, and pastries
  • Take a walk along the Loire River, admiring the view and perhaps stopping for a picnic lunch
  • Take a wine tasting tour, visiting some of the many vineyards in the surrounding countryside
  • Visit Château de Chambord, the largest castle in the Loire Valley, with its ornate Renaissance architecture and stunning grounds
  • End the day with a rustic dinner of regional specialities at La Cantine des Gourmets
Day 5

Farewell to Tours

  • Spend the morning exploring the medieval fortress of Château de Tours, which houses a museum of local history
  • Admire the stained-glass windows at the Gothic-style Cathédrale Saint-Gatien de Tours
  • Have a final meal at Les Halles de Tours, a food hall with a wide selection of restaurants and vendors.

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

Romantic Weekend Getaway in Tours, France.

Explore the charming streets of Tours hand in hand with your significant other, and take in the beauty of the historic architecture and quaint shops. Indulge in delicious French cuisine, from freshly baked croissants to savory cheese platters. Enhance your romantic trip with a visit to nearby châteaus and vineyards for a taste of the French countryside.

5-Day Romantic Tour of Picturesque Tours

Explore the charming city of Tours, known for its picturesque architecture and quaint streets perfect for strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one. Visit historic landmarks such as the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien and the Château de Tours, or indulge in the local cuisine at romantic restaurants like L'Atelier des Augustins. Spend your evenings savoring local wine or taking a sunset river cruise along the Loire River.

Two-day Loire Valley escape to Tours.

If you're planning a trip to France, you should consider visiting Tours. Tours is a beautiful city that is situated in the Loire Valley. Visitors can enjoy the city's rich history, stunning architecture, world-class museums, delectable French cuisine, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Tour the Timeless Beauty of Tours, France

Tours is a beautiful French city famous for its stunning architecture and rich history. Despite being a popular tourist destination, there are plenty of affordable options for those on a budget, including budget-friendly accommodations and local street markets offering delicious and affordable food. Visitors can enjoy free walking tours, explore the local culture and history at museums, and take in the sights and sounds of the city without breaking the bank.