Tours

Tours, the largest city in France's Centre-Val de Loire region, sits along the banks of the Loire River. Home to 136,000 residents, Tours has a long history dating back to Roman times. You can explore the remains of a Roman amphitheater, admire the Gothic Saint-Gatien Cathedral, or stroll through the medieval streets of the Old Town. The city serves as an excellent base for discovering the Loire Valley's châteaux and vineyards.

Place Plumereau: The Heart of Old Tours

At the center of the Old Town, you'll find Place Plumereau, a square surrounded by well-preserved medieval buildings. This area has many cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a drink while observing local life. In the evenings, the square becomes busy with locals and visitors, creating a lively atmosphere.

Architectural Landmarks

The Saint-Gatien Cathedral dominates Tours' skyline. Construction of this Gothic structure began in 1170, replacing an earlier church that burned down. Its intricate facade and twin towers make it a prominent landmark. Other interesting buildings include the Renaissance-style Hôtel Goüin and the Château de Tours. You can also visit the Basilique Saint-Martin, built over the tomb of St. Martin of Tours, an important figure in French Christianity.

Museums and Culture

Tours has several museums to visit. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, located in the former Archbishop's Palace, displays a large collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. In its garden, you'll find a massive cedar tree said to have been planted by Napoleon. For contemporary art, visit the Olivier Debré Contemporary Creation Centre, which offers rotating exhibitions of modern works.

Green Spaces and Gardens

Tours has several parks and gardens where you can relax. The Jardin Botanique de Tours, a municipal botanical garden, contains a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The Prébendes d'Oé garden, designed in the 19th century, showcases the English garden style and is classified as a remarkable garden of France.

Culinary Specialties and Loire Valley Wines

Tours is known for its culinary specialties, including rillettes (a type of pâté) and Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine goat cheese. The city's location in the heart of the Loire Valley means you're close to many wineries. Take a short trip to nearby Vouvray to visit wineries and taste the region's white wines.

Cycling Through the Loire Valley

Tours serves as a convenient base for exploring the Loire Valley by bicycle. The Loire à Vélo cycling route passes through the city, giving you easy access to nearby châteaux and vineyards. You can rent a bike and take day trips to attractions like the gardens of Villandry (19 km away) or the Montbazon fortress (15 km away).

Roman and Medieval History

Tours has a long history dating back to the Roman Empire when it was known as Caesarodunum. You can still see the remains of the city's Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in the empire at the time. As you walk through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town (Vieux Tours), you'll see how the city changed through the centuries. Half-timbered houses from the medieval period line these historic lanes, giving you a glimpse into France's past.