Attractions and Places To See around Tours - Top 20

Tours offers a rich array of historical landmarks. You can visit the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, known for its Gothic architecture and stained glass, or explore the Château de Tours, an 11th-century castle now hosting cultural exhibitions. The Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours is another significant religious site, and the Hôtel Goüin provides a glimpse into Renaissance architecture and Gallo-Roman history.

For a truly historic atmosphere, head to Vieux Tours (Old Tours), characterized by its cobblestone streets and medieval timber-framed buildings. The heart of this district is Place Plumereau, famous for its colorful half-timbered houses and lively terraces, often cited as one of the best places in France for an aperitif.

Yes, Tours has several interesting museums. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed in a former archbishop's palace, features nearly 12,000 works, including paintings by masters like Delacroix and Rembrandt. You can also visit the Musée du Compagnonnage, which explores the arts and crafts tradition, and the Centre de Création Contemporaine Olivier Debré (CCC OD) for contemporary art.

Tours is an excellent base for exploring the renowned Loire Valley châteaux. Must-see options include Château de Chenonceau, unique for being built over the Cher River, and the Gardens of the Château de Villandry, famous for their lavishly landscaped designs. Other popular choices are the Château d'Amboise and Le Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last residence.

You can enjoy the serene banks of the Loire River for scenic walks and cycling. The Jardin Botanique de Tours offers a tranquil space with diverse plant species, while La Bergeonnerie Lake provides a 2.5-kilometer circuit ideal for walking, running, or cycling, complete with fitness equipment and play areas.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities around Tours. You can find trails like the 'On the Banks of the Cher at Chenonceaux Trail' or the 'Savonnières Hundred Steps Trail'. For more options, explore the 'Hiking around Tours' guide which features various routes, including easy and moderate trails. You can find more details on these routes in the Hiking around Tours guide.

Absolutely! The region around Tours is very cyclist-friendly. You can cycle along the Loire River banks or take routes that lead to famous châteaux. For example, there's an easy route from Tours to Château de Chenonceau. Other options include the 'Château de Villandry — loop from Tours' or the 'Loire Banks Loop'. Discover more routes in the Cycling around Tours guide.

Many attractions in and around Tours are suitable for families. The Château de Chenonceau and the Gardens of the Château de Villandry are often enjoyed by all ages. La Bergeonnerie Lake offers play areas and space for outdoor activities. Additionally, the Jardin Botanique de Tours provides a pleasant environment for family strolls.

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent architecture and rich history of the châteaux, especially the unique design of Château de Chenonceau. The lavishly landscaped gardens of Château de Villandry are also a major highlight. Many appreciate the tranquil beauty of natural spaces like La Bergeonnerie Lake for relaxation and outdoor activities.

The châteaux and their gardens are particularly stunning during the spring and summer months (April to October) when the gardens are in full bloom. However, many châteaux, like Villandry, are open year-round, offering different seasonal beauty. Visiting outside peak summer can provide a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.

Yes, the region around Tours is renowned for its wine production. You can embark on various Loire Valley wine tours to explore local vineyards and enjoy wine tastings. Many tour options are available from Tours to discover the diverse wines of the area.

While not exactly 'hidden,' the Cloître de la Psalette, located on the north side of Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, is a beautiful and often overlooked site with exceptional Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including a remarkable spiral staircase. The Jardin des Prébendes d'Oé is another lovely, peaceful green space within the city that offers a quiet escape.