What to do in Tours

Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, Tours is a city rich in history and culture. It offers a multitude of activities and sites to discover, whether you’re a heritage lover, a nature enthusiast or curious about art and culture. This list of the top ten things to do in Tours will help you make the most of your stay. Don’t forget that the Château de La Rolandière has a reception hall in Tours and is an ideal place to stay with your guests during your visit to the capital of the Loire Valley.

Top 10 things to do in Tours

Tours, Ville d’Art et d’Histoire, is a must-see destination in the heart of the Loire Valley. With its medieval streets, magnificent gardens and lively markets, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and easy living. The capital of the Loire castles, Tours will appeal to lovers of history, gastronomy and walks along the Loire. Discover the charm of tourism in Tours for a memorable getaway.

1. Saint-Gatien Cathedral

Saint-Gatien Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Located right in the center of Tours, this sumptuous cathedral impresses with its colorful stained glass windows and high vaulted ceilings. A visit to the cathedral will allow you to admire its ornate facade and superb interior chapels. Nearby, don’t miss the Psalette cloister, annexed to the cathedral, which is also well worth a visit.

2. Stroll along the banks of the Loire

The banks of the Loire are perfect for a relaxing stroll. Whether on foot or by bike, this natural setting offers breathtaking views of the river. The towpath is particularly pleasant, allowing you to discover beautiful landscapes while enjoying the fresh air. Photographers will appreciate the beautiful light and viewpoints.

3. Historic center of Tours

The historic center of Tours is like stepping back in time. Stroll along its cobbled streets and discover half-timbered houses, picturesque squares and mansions dating back to the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Every street corner hides a piece ofTours’ rich history.

4. Visit the Loire castles

As Tours is ideally situated in the heart of the Loire Valley châteaux region, it would be a shame not to visit these iconic sites, such as the Château de Chenonceau, the Château de Villandry and its famous garden, and the majestic Château de Chambord, all within easy reach of the city. These visits offer a fascinating plunge intoFrench history.

5. Tours Botanical Garden

The Botanical Gardens of Tours are ideal for a relaxing break surrounded by greenery. This magnificent park features a wide variety of plants and trees, divided into several thematic zones. Young and old alike will appreciate the richness of the vegetation and the serenity of the place, as well as the areas dedicated to animals and children’s play areas.

6. Museum of Fine Arts

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours houses a remarkable collection ranging from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Housed in the former archbishop’s palace, the museum features a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, highlighting works by French and international artists. A must-see for art and culture lovers.

7. Saint-Martin Basilica

Located in the heart of the city, the Basilique Saint-Martin is another of Tours’ major religious monuments. Dedicated to Saint Martin, bishop of Tours in the 4th century, this basilica boasts a superb interior, including a crypt and the remains of the former abbey. A place imbued with spirituality and much appreciated by visitors.

8. Place Plumereau

Place Plumereau, affectionately known as “la place Plum'”, isone of Tours’ liveliest squares. Surrounded by half-timbered houses and numerous cafés and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink on a terrace and observe local life. All in all, it’s a friendly place where residents and tourists alike enjoy meeting up.

9. Grand Théâtre de Tours

For a cultural evening, head for the Grand Théâtre de Tours. This elegant 19th-century building offers a varied program of operas, ballets, concerts and plays. With its top-quality performances and magnificent architecture, the grand théâtre is one of the city’s must-see cultural venues.

10. Parks and gardens

Tours boasts a number of parks and gardens where you can get away from it all. These include the Parc Honoré de Balzac, perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the Jardin François-Ier, known for its magnificent flower beds. These green spaces offer calm and beauty to those who want to recharge their batteries.

Additional suggestions to make the most of your stay in Tours

• Stroll through the colorful stalls of the Halles market to discover local produce and savor Touraine gastronomy.
• Take part in a wine tasting at one of the region’s vineyards to appreciate the famous Loire wines.
• Rent a bike and explore the cycle paths along the Loire for a sporty and enjoyable activity.

Château de La Rolandière near Tours: the ideal starting point

Stay at Château de La Rolandière in Tours is the perfect way to discover all these wonders. This charming establishment offers an elegant and relaxing setting after your days of sightseeing and adventure. Its comfortable rooms and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal base for exploring Tours and the surrounding area.

All in all, Tours has a wealth of incredible sites and activities to discover. Between its rich historical heritage, impressive monuments and soothing natural spaces, there’s something for everyone. On your next getaway, don’t hesitate to include this amazing city in your itinerary, and make the Château de La Rolandière your preferred accommodation.