Before Paris claimed the title, Tours served as the capital of France. This elegant city on the Loire River still carries that regal bearing. Its historic centre, known as the Vieux Tours, is a maze of half-timbered houses and narrow lanes that have remained unchanged for centuries. The Cathedral of Saint Gatien dominates the skyline with its stunning Gothic facade and Renaissance details. Tours is also the gateway to the Loire Valley chateaux. Wine lovers come here for the Vouvray and Chinon vintages. The city is compact, walkable, and full of life. Cafes spill onto cobblestone squares. Markets fill the air with the scent of fresh goat cheese and ripe fruit.

In the valley of Loire river, not far from the famous castles, you can find a big thriving city of Tours. It offers lots of museums, shops, restaurants and beautifully remodelled old buildings. During the reign of Louis XI (3 July 1423 – 30 August 1483) it was even the capital of France. Today it is the most charming city on the Loire river featuring a great French atmosphere.

Town hall and Place Jean Jaures, Tours, France by Tango7174

City of Tours was established during The Hundred Years’ War, between the years of 1337 and 1453. At that time, the three smaller cities were merged into one and such created the present Tours. Already in Gallic-Roman period Tours was an important city and in the Middle Ages it became rich. It gained fame mainly due to the famous tomb of the bishop of St. Martin, who is now buried in the crypt of the new basilica. The city flourished during the Renaissance as well, at that time, thanks to the silks, jewellery and weapons. But after that the city became to fall followed by several centuries of decline, which was completed by the devastation of the World War II, during which the city of Tours became a temporary capital of France (10–13 June 1940). At that time the city suffered great losses and only a few relics remained standing undamaged. However, those sights still show the original shine and glance, which had the city at the peak of its fame during the 15th and 16th centuries.

The Vieux Tours Quarter and Place Plumereau

The historic heart of Tours lies in the Vieux Tours district, centred on the lively Place Plumereau. This square, known locally as Place Plume, is the social hub of the old city and one of the most photographed locations in the Loire Valley. Its medieval buildings, constructed from timber and stone, lean at slightly different angles, creating a charmingly irregular skyline. The ground floors of these ancient houses have been converted into cafes and restaurants, their outdoor terraces filling the square with chatter and the clinking of wine glasses from morning until late evening. Directly behind the square, the narrow Rue du Grand-Marché leads to the covered market of Tours, Les Halles, where local farmers sell goat cheese, charcuterie, fresh baguettes, and the celebrated rillettes of Tours. The market is open every morning except Monday and is at its liveliest on weekends. From Place Plumereau, the labyrinthine streets of the Vieux Tours unfold in every direction, revealing hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and tiny chapels tucked between the half-timbered facades.

Wine, Chateaux, and the Loire Valley Experience

Tours is the undisputed gateway to the Loire Valley’s world-famous chateaux and vineyards. Within a 30-minute drive from the city centre, you can visit Chateau de Chenonceau, spanning the River Cher with its iconic gallery, or Chateau de Chambord, the Renaissance hunting lodge with its double-spiral staircase. Closer to Tours, Chateau de Villandry is renowned for its spectacular ornamental gardens. Wine enthusiasts will find cellars in Vouvray for Chenin Blanc or Chinon for Cabernet Franc, and the city’s wine museum in the Abbey of Saint-Julien offers tastings of local vintages.

Best part of the city of Tours is its quarter of Saint-Julien spread along the river. It is full of trendy restaurants and antique shops. It is good to start your tour at the busy quarter of Place Plumereau, which is lined with cafes and restored half-timbered buildings. Nearby is the Hotel Gouin – a Renaissance building that now houses the Musée de l’Hôtel de Gouin, which exhibits art and archaeological collections.

Tours Cathedral, France by Dave Hamster

Through the Pont Wilson from 1978, which is a true copy of the original stone bridge of 18th century, you can get to the former Abbey of Saint-Julien. The facility now serves to the wine museum – Musee des Vins de Touraine. Also charming is Musée du Compagnonmage located next to it. This museum is dedicated to the history of craft guilds and trade.

Recently renovated Cathedral of St.-Gatien dominates the skyline of the city. The tower rises to a height of 87 meters, and overlooks the Old City. It was built in the period from 13th to 16th century and is an excellent example of the development of Gothic architecture. Its very complicated façade combines several architectural styles that were typical for the particular century at the time of its construction. The interior of the cathedral is built in the late Gothic style.

Tours is generally quiet and peaceful town but offers everything you can expect from your relaxing and truly French holidays.