Charlemagne Tower, Tours
Plan your visit
Tours: Main Attractions
9 attractions · 7h 7min · transit route
Tickets ~€27.4
Step-by-step route with transport options and cost breakdown
About Charlemagne Tower
The Charlemagne Tower is an 11th-century Romanesque bell tower that once formed part of the Collegiate Church of Saint-Martin, one of medieval Europe's most important pilgrimage sites. Standing 48 meters tall at 83 Rue des Halles in central Tours, the tower was built over the tomb of Luitgarde of Alemannia, Charlemagne's fourth wife, who died in Tours in the year 800. The original basilica was demolished after the French Revolution, leaving the tower freestanding.
Charlemagne Tower — Planning Your Visit
Ticket Prices
Self-Guided Visit
Available on select dates only (public holidays and special openings), 14:00-18:00, last entry 17:30. No reservation required. 248 steps, no elevator — not suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
Guided Visit
RecommendedReservation required (max 19 people). Thu-Fri 18:00-19:00, Fri also 11:30-12:30, Sat-Sun 16:30-17:30 and 18:00-19:00. Duration: 1 hour. Groups of 10+ receive reduced rate. 248 steps, no elevator.
Tasting Visit
Wine and local products pairing with heritage experience. Reservation required. Duration: 1h30, starts at 18:30 on select dates. 248 steps, no elevator.
In day plans, the recommended ticket is pre-selected and included in the total price.
Combine with 8 nearby attractions for a full day
From €27.4 / person — all tickets and transport included — transit route with total cost breakdown
The tower is not named after Charlemagne because he was buried here. It takes its name from the tomb of Luitgarde of Alemannia, his fourth wife, who died in Tours on June 4, 800 while accompanying the Emperor on a journey. Charlemagne himself was buried in Aachen, over 700 km away.
Travel Plans for Charlemagne Tower
Explore a city in one day
- Step-by-step walking route through the city
- Transport options with travel times and fares
- Entrance fees and opening hours for every stop
- Total cost calculated based on your preferences
Day Routes
Nearby Attractions
Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre