Details for Tours
Tours (the ‘s’ is silent) lies at the heart of Loire Châteaux Country, a legacy of the centuries when it was the capital of France and the French royal court was based in the Loire Valley. The châteaux of Chenonceau, Blois, Amboise, Cheverny, Azay, Villandry, and Chaumont are all within an hour’s drive. Quality, elegance and class are the region’s hallmarks, also famous for the vineyards surrounding the city. In the city, stylish streets are adorned by neat lines of white stone and black slate. South of the Cher and north of the Loire extend the newer business districts. The main attraction though is the historic centre between the rivers. In medieval times, Rue Colbert was the main street. Mainly pedestrianized, it remains a domain of little shops and cafés, as well as the museums and Gothic cathedral, beautifully lit up at night. Today, the main street is the always bustling Rue Nationale, with department stores and dozens of interesting small shops.
Approximately 140,000
Euro (EUR) €1 = 100 cents
Police: 17
Ambulance: 15/112
Fire Brigade: 18
Most shops are open from Tuesdays to Saturdays between 9 am-12 pm and 3-7 pm. Most supermarkets are open Mondays to Saturdays between 8.30 am-12.30 pm and 3-7.30 pm, and have late closing on certain days. Most museums and sights keep similar hours, but are closed one day a week, usually Monday or Tuesday.
The best time to visit Tours is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. These months also coincide with the blooming of gardens and the grape harvest, offering a picturesque experience.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Tours is ideal to explore the city and its surroundings. This allows time to visit the historic old town, explore nearby châteaux like Château de Villandry and Château de Chenonceau, and enjoy local wine tastings.
In Tours, don't miss the historic Place Plumereau with its half-timbered houses, the impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The city's botanical garden is also a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll.
Tours offers convenient public transportation, including buses and trams, which are efficient for getting around the city. Renting a bicycle is also a popular option, especially for exploring the scenic Loire Valley countryside.
While in Tours, try local specialties such as rillettes (a type of pâté), tarte Tatin (an upside-down caramelized apple tart), and the region's renowned goat cheese, Sainte-Maure de Touraine. Pair these with a glass of local Vouvray or Chinon wine.
Tours hosts several notable events, including the Vitiloire wine festival in May, celebrating the region's wines, and the Christmas market in December, which transforms the city into a festive wonderland with local crafts and delicacies.
From Tours, consider day trips to nearby châteaux such as Château de Chambord and Château d'Amboise. The charming town of Chinon, known for its wine and medieval architecture, is also a worthwhile excursion.
