Embrace the rare beauty of Tours and venture further into the glorious Loire Valley, exploring its intriguing museums, natural beauty and discovering eye-catching architectural wonders by the river.
Enjoy the architectural splendor of Saint Gatianus Cathedral
With its twin bell towers, the Gothic-style Tours cathedral – known as the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien de Tours – is hugely impressive. Construction started in 1170, but the cathedral wasn't finished until 1547, revolutionizing the Gothic style over time and bringing a range of different influences together in this fascinating structure.
Its intricate façade features sharp floral details, spooky gargoyles and eye-catching Renaissance patterns, making St Gatianus cathedral a true masterpiece and a vision of architectural excellence.
Inside, a checkerboard floor stretches out through the narrow cathedral, past the stone arched aisles into the apse, where a regal chandelier hangs. Be dazzled by the shimmering 13th-century stained glass windows contrasting against the grand baroque organ that sits below it.
Discover ancient art and history
Step back in time through Tours’ fantastic array of museums and galleries. Take a trip to the Museum of Fine Arts – Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours – in the stunning 18th-century archbishop’s palace.
Check out the lavish interior of the gold-trimmed state rooms, while paintings telling tales of the past line the walls. Sculptures stretch along the hallways, each with a little dash of history woven into its artistry. Marvel over famous masterpieces from world-renowned artists such as Rembrandt.
The intriguing Compagnonnage museum, set on the banks for the River Loire, is all about France’s trade guilds, where you can follow them from the Middle Ages through to the 20th century.
The museum celebrates a handful of professions and crafts, from carpentry to cobblery. The collection of archived documents, stories, artifacts and emblems led to Compagnonnage being added to UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Wine and dine in style
Among the many things Tours does well is cuisine, and lovers of the good life will feel wonderfully at home here. Fine food runs through the heart of Tours, influencing much of what you’ll see on any visit to the city.
There are a number of street markets throughout the week. Les Halles is perhaps the most famous, where you can wander to your heart’s content and pick up delectable treats.
Your senses will appreciate the tempting aromas of fresh bread, and the wide selection of cheeses, meats and wines, not to mention offerings from artisan chocolatiers. It’s the perfect place to pick up some provisions for a picnic by the river
Experience the beauty of the Loire Valley
One of the best ways to see the beauty of this region is to travel along the famous Loire Valley route. Tours is known for being the launchpad to the rest of the region, where lush, rolling hills are speckled with aristocratic chateaux.
The UNESCO World Heritage Loire Valley region stretches from the coast to Orleans. It’s made up of ancient woodland, three natural parks, vineyards and babbling brooks.
There are plenty of unforgettable sights to see along the way, such as the Château de Chenonceau, which is the most photographed chateau in the region. Park up and explore this charming 16th-century setting on foot, just a 40-minute drive from Tours.
Walk through the lavishly dressed rooms into the quaint chapel and on to the balcony to view the flourishing gardens below. Stroll around the grounds to see the pristine reflection of the bright-stoned chateau on the River Cher.
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