About Tours
A Living Medieval Quarter
The cobblestone streets around Place Plumereau form one of the best-preserved medieval centers in France. Half-timbered houses dating from the 12th to 15th centuries line the squares, their facades adorned with carved figures and ornate details. Today this atmospheric quarter buzzes with café terraces, independent boutiques, and restaurants serving local specialties.
Gateway to the Royal Châteaux
Tours is the most convenient base for exploring the Loire Valley's legendary castles. Château de Chenonceau, the elegant Castle of the Ladies spanning the River Cher, is just 30 minutes away. Château de Chambord, the largest of the Loire châteaux with its 440 rooms and iconic double-helix staircase, lies an hour to the east. Closer still are Villandry's spectacular Renaissance gardens and the royal Château d'Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years.
Gastronomy & Wine
The Loire Valley produces an extraordinary range of wines — from crisp Vouvray whites to elegant Chinon reds — and Tours is the perfect place to taste them all. The city's markets, especially Les Halles de Tours, overflow with rillettes de Tours, goat cheeses from Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, and seasonal produce that reflects the region's Garden of France heritage. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros, the dining scene rivals cities twice its size.
A Living Medieval Quarter
The cobblestone streets around Place Plumereau form one of the best-preserved medieval centers in France. Half-timbered houses dating from the 12th to 15th centuries line the squares, their facades adorned with carved figures and ornate details. Today this atmospheric quarter buzzes with café terraces, independent boutiques, and restaurants serving local specialties.
Highlights of Tours
- Perfectly preserved medieval old town around Place Plumereau
- Ideal base for visiting Chenonceau, Chambord, and Villandry châteaux
- Magnificent Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Gatien with flamboyant façade
- Renowned gastronomy — rillettes, goat cheese, and Loire Valley wines
- UNESCO World Heritage Loire Valley landscape
- Vibrant university city with lively café culture and markets
Why Visit Tours
Tours combines a beautifully preserved medieval heart with unmatched access to the Loire Valley's royal châteaux, world-class gastronomy, and a relaxed riverside lifestyle that makes it far more than just a day-trip base.
Loire Valley Château Capital
No other city offers such easy access to the valley's greatest castles. Chenonceau, Chambord, Villandry, Amboise, and Azay-le-Rideau are all within an hour, reachable by train, bus, or bike.
Medieval Architecture
Place Plumereau and the surrounding streets preserve one of France's finest collections of half-timbered medieval houses, creating an atmospheric old town that rewards leisurely exploration.
Gastronomy & Wine
From Vouvray sparkling wines to Sainte-Maure goat cheese and the famous rillettes de Tours, the city is a culinary destination in its own right, with excellent markets and restaurants at every price point.
Cultural Richness
Home to the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Prieuré Saint-Cosme — the last home of poet Ronsard — Tours offers deep cultural experiences beyond the châteaux.
Quick Facts
Travel Statistics
Location & Geography
Travel Statistics
Itineraries for Tours
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
View all
Museums and Heritage of Tours
Tours
Daily Budget in Tours
Estimated daily costs per person
About Cost Estimates
Prices shown are average estimates to help you plan your budget. Actual costs may vary.
Budget
€44
per day
Mid-Range
€94
per day
Luxury
€375
per day
Prices are estimates and may vary by season and availability
Attractions in Tours
20 attractions available
Showing 12 of 20 attractions
View All AttractionsQuick Facts
Location & Geography
Frequently Asked Questions About Tours
How many days should I spend in Tours?
Is Tours a good base for visiting Loire Valley châteaux?
What is the best time to visit Tours?
What food specialties should I try in Tours?
Can I visit the châteaux without a car?
Other Cities in Centre-Val de Loire
Discover more destinations in the region
Orléans
16 attractionsFrance
Amboise
12 attractionsFrance
Blois
12 attractionsFrance
Chartres
11 attractionsFrance
Bourges
10 attractionsFrance
Montargis
9 attractionsFrance
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Start exploring curated itineraries with complete cost breakdowns