Excursion à la journée Chambord, Chenonceau et déjeuner dans un château privé
4.9460 avis9h 30m
dès 239 €
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168 €
Hôtel par nuit (milieu de gamme)
105 €
Meilleurs mois
Juil, Août, Sept
Langue · Monnaie
French · Euro
Discover Tours
Tours isn't just a city; it's the vibrant, beating heart of the Loire Valley. While it serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the region's legendary châteaux, the city itself is a captivating destination where Renaissance history meets a lively, youthful energy from its large student population. Wander the cobbled lanes of the Old Town around Place Plumereau, where half-timbered houses lean over bustling terraces, and you'll feel the pulse of a city that has mastered the art of living well.
This is a place where you can spend your morning marveling at the Gothic and Romanesque architecture of Tours Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Gatien), your afternoon sipping a crisp Vouvray in a sun-dappled square, and your evening indulging in a feast of local rillettes and goat cheese. Tours offers the quintessential French experience—sophisticated yet unpretentious, deeply historical yet vibrantly modern—all within a beautifully compact and walkable center that invites you to linger.
Why Visit Tours?
1
Unparalleled access to the Loire Valley châteaux: Tours is the perfect base to explore architectural masterpieces like the iconic Château de Chenonceau spanning the Cher River, the magnificent gardens of Château de Villandry, and the royal Château de Chambord, all within an hour's drive.
2
A living Renaissance city: The historic center, with its perfectly preserved half-timbered houses around Place Plumereau and the stunning Saint-Gatien Cathedral, offers an immersive journey into 15th and 16th-century France without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities.
3
A world-class wine region at your doorstep: The city is the capital of the Touraine wine region, famous for its elegant, flinty Vouvray (Chenin Blanc) and fruity Chinon (Cabernet Franc). Numerous cellars and wine bars in town offer tastings and direct purchases from local vignerons.
4
A dynamic and authentic French atmosphere: Home to one of France's oldest universities, Tours buzzes with a youthful, intellectual energy. This creates a lively café culture, affordable dining, and a genuine, less touristy vibe compared to other French urban centers.
5
A paradise for food lovers: The Touraine region is renowned for its exceptional produce. Must-try specialties include rillettes de Tours (slow-cooked pork pâté), Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine goat cheese, and the prized white asparagus from the Loire riverbanks.
6
Excellent quality of life and walkability: The city center is compact, flat, and easily explored on foot. The combination of beautiful parks like the Jardin Botanique, the Loire River banks, and pedestrian-friendly streets makes for a relaxed and enjoyable urban experience.
Tours est Connue Pour
Loire châteaux
wine
French language schools
rillettes
Vouvray
Prêt à explorer Tours?
Tours Neighborhoods
Vieux Tours (Old Town)
The historic and picturesque core of Tours, centered around the iconic Place Plumereau (known locally as 'Place Plum'). This area is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered medieval and Renaissance houses, now housing bustling cafés, crêperies, and boutique shops. The vibe is lively day and night, especially on the terraces of 'Place Plum'.
Highlights:
Place Plumereau
Rue du Grand Marché
Musée du Compagnonnage
Église Saint-Julien
Best for:
History buffs
Photographers
First-time visitors
Nightlife seekers
Cathédrale / Rue Nationale
A more formal and grand district anchored by the magnificent Tours Cathedral (Saint-Gatien) and the main shopping artery, Rue Nationale. This area blends impressive religious architecture with Haussmann-style buildings, upscale shops, and important cultural institutions. The vibe is elegant and bustling with shoppers and tourists.
Highlights:
Cathédrale Saint-Gatien et son cloître
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours (in the former Archbishop's Palace)
Rue Nationale
Hôtel de Ville
Best for:
Art and architecture lovers
Shoppers
Families
Cultural visitors
Les Halles / Gambetta
The gastronomic and market heart of the city, revolving around the magnificent 19th-century iron-and-glass Les Halles de Tours market. The surrounding streets are packed with specialty food shops, fromageries, wine merchants, and excellent bistros. The vibe is authentic, gourmet, and energetic, especially in the morning when the market is at its peak.
Highlights:
Les Halles de Tours market
Rue du Commerce
Place de la Résistance
Numerous wine bars and fromageries
Best for:
Foodies
Local life enthusiasts
Self-catering travelers
Gourmet shoppers
Prébendes / Jardin Botanique
A green and tranquil residential district south of the center, offering a peaceful escape. It's dominated by the beautiful Jardin Botanique de Tours, a 5-hectare park with themed gardens, greenhouses, and a small zoo. The area is calm, upscale, and perfect for a leisurely stroll away from the urban bustle.
Highlights:
Jardin Botanique de Tours
Musée des Vins de Touraine (in the former Saint-Julien cellars)
Quiet, elegant residential streets
Parc de Grandmont (nearby)
Best for:
Nature lovers
Families with children
Travelers seeking tranquility
Garden enthusiasts
Principales Attractions
1
Place Plumereau2
Tours Cathedral3
Château de Villandry4
Château de Chenonceau5
Old Town6
Wine TastingLes meilleures visites et activités à Tours
Les visites et billets les plus réservés par les voyageurs, avec les notes et avis Viator.
Balade en montgolfière sur la vallée de la Loire, Amboise ou Chenonceau
4.7295 avis3h
dès 255 €
Voir les disponibilités
« AMBACIA CELLARS », visite et dégustation de vins à Amboise, dans le Val de Loire
4.7273 avis1h 30m
dès 32 €
Voir les disponibilités
Matinée - Visite œnologique dans la vallée de la Loire et dégustation, Vouvray
5.0187 avis3h 30m
dès 125 €
Voir les disponibilitésQue faire à Tours →
Visites et prix de Viator, une société Tripadvisor. Les prix varient selon vos dates. Nous pouvons percevoir une commission si vous réservez, sans frais supplémentaires.
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •For the best market experience, visit Les Halles de Tours on a Saturday morning. Go early (before 10 AM) to see the locals shopping and to get the freshest picks of goat cheese, rillettes, and seasonal produce.
- •Don't just look up at the half-timbered houses on Place Plumereau—look down. The square's pavement features a beautiful compass rose mosaic (La Rose des Vents) that's easy to miss.
- •The best view of the city isn't from a tower, but from the north bank of the Loire River, especially from the Pont Wilson bridge at sunset. You'll get a stunning panorama of the cathedral and old town skyline.
- •When ordering wine, ask for a 'vin de Touraine'. This is the local generic appellation and often offers incredible value and character, sometimes rivaling the more famous specific village wines.
- •Many smaller châteaux near Tours (like Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau) offer stunning evening light shows (son et lumière) in summer. Book tickets in advance and plan for a magical night visit.
- •Use the tram system's 'Ticket à l'Unité' wisely: it's valid for one hour with unlimited transfers. Perfect for a short hop from the station to the old town and then out to the botanical garden.
- •The 'Office de Tourisme' on Rue Bernard Palissy offers an excellent 'Tours City Pass' for 24, 48, or 72 hours. It includes public transport, château entry discounts, and guided tours, and pays for itself quickly.
- •To experience a true local aperitif, order a 'Touraine Gamay' (a light red wine) or a 'Pineau de la Loire' (the local name for Chenin Blanc) with a plate of rillettes before dinner.
- •Free guided tours of the old town are often offered by the tourism office, but you can also download their self-guided walking tour app for a flexible exploration at your own pace.
- •If you're driving to the châteaux, take the smaller 'Route des Châteaux' (D751) along the Cher River instead of the main highway. It's slower but infinitely more scenic, passing through charming villages and vineyards.
Tours Food Scene
Tours sits at the heart of the 'Garden of France,' and its food scene is a direct reflection of the Loire Valley's incredible bounty. The cuisine is robust yet refined, celebrating local pork, river fish, goat cheese, and garden vegetables. Meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly, often accompanied by the region's superb wines.
Must-Try Dishes
Rillettes de Tours (shredded pork confit)
Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine (ash-coated goat cheese log)
Fouées (small, hollow breads stuffed with rillettes or goat cheese)
Sandre au beurre blanc (pike-perch in white butter sauce)
Tarte Tatin (upside-down apple tart, invented nearby)
Vouvray (Chenin Blanc wine, both sparkling and still)
Traditional Bistros
- • Le Lapin qui Fume for classic rillettes and fouées
- • L'Atelier Gourmand for modern Touraine cuisine
- • La Maison des Halles for market-fresh dishes
Look for the 'Plat du Jour' (daily special) chalkboard outside—it's often the freshest and best-value meal.
Wine Bars & Cave à Manger
- • Le Bistrot des Belles Caves for extensive local wine list
- • Le Wine Bar by Le Bistrot de la Place for small plates
- • La Maison des Vins for tasting and buying directly
Order a 'planche' (shared board) of charcuterie and cheese to sample multiple local specialties with your wine.
Market & Street Food
- • Fresh goat cheese from a fromagerie in Les Halles
- • A fouée stuffed to order at a market stall
- • Rillettes sandwich from a charcuterie
At Les Halles, many vendors will let you taste before you buy, especially the cheese and charcuterie merchants.
Fine Dining
- • L'Odéon for creative, Michelin-starred tasting menus
- • La Roche le Roy for elegant regional cuisine in a manor house
- • Rive Gauche for sophisticated French dishes
Book well in advance, especially for dinner. Consider the 'Menu Dégustation' (tasting menu) for the full culinary journey.
Populaire Auprès
wine lovers
history buffs
families
château enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit Tours
Spring
Spring is arguably the best time to visit Tours. The city and surrounding châteaux gardens burst into color with blooming flowers, particularly the famous gardens of Villandry. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for cycling and walking.
Pros:
- + Ideal weather (15-20°C)
- + Gardens at châteaux are in full bloom
- + Fewer crowds than summer
- + Pleasant for outdoor activities
Cons:
- - Some rain showers are common
- - Evenings can still be cool
Summer
Summer brings warm, sunny days and a lively festival atmosphere. The city is vibrant, with outdoor cafés and evening light shows at the châteaux. However, it's also the peak tourist season.
Pros:
- + Warmest weather (avg 25°C), perfect for river activities
- + Long daylight hours
- + Festivals and night markets
- + Son et lumière shows at châteaux
Cons:
- - Largest crowds and highest prices
- - Can be hot for extensive sightseeing
- - Need to book accommodation and tours far in advance
Autumn
Autumn is a magical season, with the Loire Valley's forests and vineyards turning golden and red. The grape harvest (vendange) takes place, and the weather remains pleasant into October. The summer crowds have dissipated.
Pros:
- + Beautiful fall foliage
- + Wine harvest season—great for vineyard visits
- + Mild temperatures
- + Fewer tourists
Cons:
- - Days get shorter
- - Weather becomes more unpredictable in late autumn
Winter
Winter is quiet and chilly, with a festive charm during the Christmas market season. While some château gardens are dormant, the interiors are still stunning, and you'll have them largely to yourself.
Pros:
- + Lowest tourist numbers
- + Christmas markets and decorations
- + Atmospheric cozy dining in bistros
- + Great for focused museum and indoor château visits
Cons:
- - Coldest weather (avg 6°C), often damp
- - Some attractions have reduced hours
- - Outdoor activities are limited
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Day Trips from Tours
Château de Chenonceau
35 min by train or car
The most iconic and visited château of the Loire Valley, famously spanning the Cher River. Known as the 'Ladies' Château' for the influential women who shaped its history, it's a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture set amidst beautiful gardens and a forest park.
The iconic gallery bridge over the river
The exquisite floral arrangements in every room
The formal gardens of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de' Medici
The maze and vegetable garden
Château de Villandry
25 min by car
World-renowned not for its architecture, but for its spectacular, meticulously maintained Renaissance gardens. The château itself is elegant, but the real draw is the stunning geometric patterns of the ornamental gardens, the water garden, and the vast, productive kitchen garden.
The Renaissance ornamental gardens (Love Garden, Music Garden, etc.)
The Kitchen Garden (Potager) with its colorful vegetable patterns
The panoramic view from the Belvedere over the gardens
The elegant interior and art collection
Amboise
25 min by train
A charming royal town dominated by its cliff-top château, which was a favorite residence of French kings. It's also the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last years here at the invitation of King Francis I.
Château Royal d'Amboise and its panoramic terrace
Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last home and park with working models of his inventions
The medieval town center with half-timbered houses
Views of the Loire from the town's bridges
Tours Budget Guide
Tours offers good value compared to Paris or the French Riviera. While not a budget backpacker destination, mid-range travelers can enjoy excellent food, wine, and culture without breaking the bank. Costs are highest in summer and around major holidays.
Budget
€50-80 per person for hostels, market meals, free sights, and walking.
per day
Mid-Range
€100-180 per person for a comfortable hotel/B&B, restaurant meals, château entries, and some taxis/trains.
per day
Luxury
€250+ per person for 4-star hotels, fine dining, private château tours, and wine tasting experiences.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •The 'Tours City Pass' saves money on transport and attractions.
- •Picnic with supplies from Les Halles market for a cheap and delicious lunch.
- •Many museums are free on the first Sunday of the month (October to March).
- •Consider a rental car only if visiting multiple remote châteaux; trains/buses serve major ones.
- •Drink the local house wine (vin de Touraine) in restaurants—it's excellent and affordable.
Tours Hidden Gems
Musée du Compagnonnage
A unique museum dedicated to the French 'Compagnonnage' tradition, a historic guild system for skilled craftsmen and artisans.
It houses an astonishing collection of intricate 'masterpieces' crafted by journeymen in wood, metal, stone, and leather—breathtaking works of art that are rarely seen by tourists.
Les Caves de la Loire (Monoprix Cellars)
Beneath the Monoprix supermarket on Rue Nationale lies a vast, atmospheric network of medieval and Renaissance stone cellars.
These historic tufa stone caves now host occasional art exhibitions and events. It's a fascinating, cool escape that reveals the city's subterranean history.
Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé
A lesser-known but beautiful 19th-century English-style garden, a short walk from the more famous Jardin Botanique.
It's quieter, with romantic winding paths, a duck pond, exotic trees, and a charming bandstand—perfect for a peaceful stroll away from any crowds.
Île Aucard
A small, tranquil island in the Loire River, accessible by footbridge from the Quai d'Orléans, near the Pont de Pierre.
It offers unique, postcard-perfect views back towards the cathedral and old town, and is a favorite local spot for a picnic, jog, or quiet moment by the water.
Eglise Saint-Julien (Former Abbey)
A striking, large church near the train station, built on the site of a medieval abbey, now deconsecrated.
It houses the eclectic 'Musée des Vins de Touraine' in its ancient cellars and hosts temporary exhibitions and concerts in the nave, blending history, wine, and culture in one unexpected spot.
Tours Culture & Customs
Tours embodies the gentle, welcoming spirit of the Loire Valley. Life moves at a relaxed pace, centered around good food, good wine, and conversation. The large student population keeps the city feeling young and dynamic, while a deep pride in local history and traditions (like the Compagnonnage) anchors its identity.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always greet shopkeepers with 'Bonjour' upon entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving.
- •Meals are social events. Don't rush; it's polite to linger over coffee after lunch or dinner.
- •When toasting, make eye contact and say 'Santé' or 'Tchin-tchin'.
- •Dress is generally smart-casual. Avoid overly sporty attire in restaurants for dinner.
- •Be patient and try a few words of French. A simple 'Parlez-vous anglais?' is much appreciated before launching into English.
Useful Phrases
Une fouée, s'il vous plaît. - A fouée (stuffed bread), please.(oon foo-ay, seel voo play)
Un verre de Vouvray, sec. - A glass of dry Vouvray.(uhn vair duh voo-vray, sek)
Où sont les toilettes ? - Where are the toilets?(oo sohn lay twa-let)
L'addition, s'il vous plaît. - The bill, please.(la-dee-syon, seel voo play)
C'est délicieux ! - It's delicious!(say day-lee-syuh)
Je voudrais goûter les rillettes. - I would like to taste the rillettes.(zhuh voo-dray goo-tay lay ree-yet)
Frequently Asked Questions about Tours
How many days do I need in Tours?
A minimum of two full days is recommended: one to explore the historic city center itself, and a second to take a day trip to at least one or two of the major nearby châteaux like Chenonceau or Villandry. With three or four days, you can explore the city more deeply and visit multiple châteaux at a relaxed pace.
Is Tours a good base for exploring the Loire Valley châteaux?
Yes, it's one of the best bases. Tours is centrally located in the valley, with excellent road and rail connections to the most famous châteaux (Chenonceau, Amboise, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau). It also offers a wide range of accommodation, dining, and services that smaller château towns lack.
Do I need to rent a car to visit the châteaux?
Not necessarily. Key châteaux like Chenonceau and Amboise are easily reached by train. For others, like Villandry or Azay-le-Rideau, local buses or organized tours from Tours are available. A car offers maximum flexibility for visiting multiple, more remote châteaux in one day, but it's not essential for a first visit.
What is the best way to get to Tours from Paris?
The fastest and most convenient way is by TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Montparnasse station. The journey takes just over 1 hour. Driving takes about 2.5-3 hours via the A10 motorway. Flights exist but are not practical due to the short train journey time.
Is English widely spoken in Tours?
In the tourism sector (hotels, major restaurants, châteaux), staff usually speak some English. In smaller local shops and cafés, it's less common. Learning a few basic French phrases is highly appreciated and will greatly enhance your experience.
What is the local specialty I must try?
You absolutely must try 'Rillettes de Tours', a rich, spreadable pâté made from slow-cooked pork. It's typically served on bread or with 'fouées' (small hollow breads). Pair it with a glass of local Vouvray wine for the authentic Touraine experience.
Are the châteaux open year-round?
Most major châteaux are open year-round, but with significantly reduced hours from November to March. Their famous gardens are best visited from April to October. Always check the official website for the exact opening times and dates before your visit, especially in the off-season.
Is Tours safe for tourists?
Tours is generally a very safe city for tourists. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your belongings in crowded areas like the train station or markets, and be cautious in less-frequented areas late at night. The historic center is well-lit and populated into the evening.
Tours Itinéraires
Guides de Voyage
Comparer avec D'autres Villes
Combien coûte un voyage à Tours ?
Coûts quotidiens habituels pour un voyageur, d'après les prix moyens dans le pays (France).
| Petit budget | Milieu de gamme | Confort | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hébergement (par nuit) | 45 € | 105 € | 180 € |
| Repas et boissons (par jour) | 18 € | 38 € | 75 € |
| Visites et activités (par jour) | 8 € | 25 € | 55 € |
| Total par jour | 71 € | 168 € | 310 € |
Les estimations n'incluent pas les vols ni les transports longue distance. Comparer les coûts quotidiens entre villes
Où dormir à Tours
Des hôtels proches du centre de Tours, du petit budget au luxe. Les prix sont des tarifs par nuit habituels lors de notre dernière vérification.
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Petit budget
Milieu de gamme
Milieu de gamme
Haut de gamme
Haut de gamme
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