{"id":13306,"date":"2022-02-07T16:48:08","date_gmt":"2022-02-07T15:48:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogdev.winalist.fr\/uncategorized\/visit-tours-things-to-do-and-see-for-a-successful-stay"},"modified":"2026-05-28T13:40:14","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T11:40:14","slug":"things-to-do-in-tours","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/travel-france\/loire-valley\/things-to-do-in-tours","title":{"rendered":"Best things to do in Tours: Uncover the Loire Valley"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Nestled in the Loire Valley along the riverside shores of the Loire, Tours is the first main city you’ll probably stop in while visiting the Loire Valley from Paris. Not only is Tours dynamic and captivatingly historic, but it is also an imperative stopover on your Route of Loire Valley Castle. Some of the team members at Winalist are actually from the Loire Valley and created this amazing guide to help you discover the city and its surroundings. You will also find our tips on the best Loire Valley wineries<\/a> to visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What are the best things to do in Tours?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1- Discover the historic city center <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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One of the most captivating things to do in Tours is exploring its historic city center, which will instantly transport you to a different era. The cobblestone streets and Tudor-style architecture evoke an almost mesmerizing atmosphere that encourages further exploration through every winding corner. In the evening, the city of Tours showcases all its riches by offering ” <\/strong>Light Trails“<\/strong> by illuminating the city’s emblematic monuments. All you have to do is criss-cross the “Vieux-Tours” or “Balzac” route to enjoy this open-air spectacle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2- Admire Saint-Gatien Cathedral<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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One of the most impressive things to do in Tours is this special amphitheater. Built on the remains of the Gallo-Roman city Caesarodunum<\/em>, the Saint-Gatien Cathedral is right in the center of the city. Bringing together the pious, lovers of art, architecture, or history, this building is a <\/strong>clever mix of Gothic construction and Renaissance style, testimony to its evolution through the ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3- Walk along the banks of the Loire River<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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As you probably know, Tours is crossed by the Loire River. It is therefore natural that we advise walkers and hikers to tread the urban path starting from rue Andr\u00e9 Malraux. For about 3 miles (1h30), you can follow the banks of the Loire and discover Ile Aucard as well as Ile Simon which offers a beautiful view of the Pont Wilson for a photo break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4- Breath in the botanical garden<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Next on our list of things to do in Tours is the botanical garden. Since 1843, the botanical garden has been an essential place for a walk. There is a space dedicated to plant collections, a playground for children, and even an animal park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5- Stroll around Place Plumereau <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Located in the historic center, Place Plumereau<\/strong> is one of the most iconic spots in Tours and a must-see when exploring the city. Surrounded by beautiful half-timbered houses, this square perfectly captures the charm of old Tours. By day, it\u2019s a great place to relax on a terrace and take in the atmosphere, while in the evening it becomes one of the liveliest areas in town, filled with restaurants and bars. Whether you\u2019re stopping for a drink or simply walking through, Place Plumereau is the perfect place to experience the vibrant soul of Tours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What to do around Tours?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Visit the amazing Loire Valley Castles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The Loire Valley is home to some of the most magnificent castles in France, and those near Tours are not to be missed. One of the top castles to visit is Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau<\/strong>, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that are reflected in the waters of the River Cher. Another must-see is Ch\u00e2teau de Chambord<\/strong> (above), a Renaissance masterpiece with its iconic double-helix staircase. Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry is also worth a visit for its elaborate gardens, while Ch\u00e2teau d’Amboise offers breathtaking views of the Loire River. These castles near Tours showcase the rich history and architectural beauty of the Loire Valley, making them a must-see for any visitor to the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Uncover our guide and tour the Loire Valley Castle<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Meet wine growers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of French winemaking, discovering Loire Valley wineries is a must-do while in the region. Known for its picturesque vineyards, historic chateaux, and diverse wine production, it is an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts. From sharing a meal with a winegrower to walking in the vineyards or exploring some antics troglodytes cellars (old chalk cellars), import our interactive map to your cell phone and book your next wine experience on Winalist!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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