With 3 days in Tours, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. 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
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.
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.
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.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Tours adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Place Plumereau
Experience Place Plumereau, one of Tours's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Tours Cathedral
Experience Tours Cathedral, one of Tours's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Tours like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in France.
Château de Villandry
Experience Château de Villandry, one of Tours's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Château de Chenonceau
Experience Château de Chenonceau, one of Tours's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Bonus Discoveries & Departure
Before you leave, squeeze in a few more Tours experiences. Even a morning can hold wonderful discoveries in this city.
Old Town
Experience Old Town, one of Tours's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Wine Tasting
Experience Wine Tasting, one of Tours's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Ready to explore Tours?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Tours is very walkable for a short trip.
- 2The best time to visit Tours is April to October. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in French go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 63 days is ideal for the main highlights. Prioritize what matters most to you.
Must-Try Food in Tours
💡 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.
Book Activities in Tours
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Neighborhoods to Explore in Tours
Vieux Tours (Old Town)
The historic and picturesque core of Tours, centered around the iconic Place Plumereau (known locally as 'Place Plum').
Cathédrale / Rue Nationale
A more formal and grand district anchored by the magnificent Tours Cathedral (Saint-Gatien) and the main shopping artery, Rue Nationale.
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.
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