Tours, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

In the Loire Valley lies the lovely Tours, France, full of amazing finds. It’s rich in history, beautiful architecture, and famous wines. Here, we will show you the best things to do and top picks in and around Tours.

There's so much to enjoy, from the famous Loire Valley's châteaux to the wine scene. You can soak up the arts and culture of Tours and see the exceptional Chartres Cathedral. Are you excited to find the hidden gems and unique experiences of Tours and the French Riviera, Provence, Paris, Bordeaux, Normandy, Champagne, Mont Saint-Michel, and Alsace?

Key Takeaways

• Explore the historic châteaux of the Loire Valley, like the lovely Château de Chenonceau and the stunning gardens of Château de Villandry.
• Get to know the famous wine culture of the region with a tour and tasting at Bouvet-Ladubay.
• Enjoy the arts and culture of Tours by visiting the grand Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours.
• Feel the magic of the Loire Valley from a hot-air balloon over Amboise.
• See the impact of the great Leonardo da Vinci at the Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise.

Are you all set to discover the secret spots and amazing experiences of Tours and the nearby areas? Let’s get started!

Explore the Historic Châteaux of the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley in France is famous for its beautiful châteaux. These castles have amazed people for centuries. When you visit, make sure not to miss the stunning Château de Chenonceau and the lovely Château de Villandry.

Tour the Iconic Château de Chenonceau

The Château de Chenonceau is an amazing mix of old Gothic and new Renaissance styles. This château is special because it was built over the Cher River. It's known for its connection to the strong French Queen Catherine de Medici.

Inside, you'll see beautiful tapestries, furniture, and art. It shows how the people who lived here before had good taste.

Discover the Gardens of Château de Villandry

The Château de Villandry is near Château de Chenonceau and has stunning gardens. You can walk through a maze, see colorful flower beds, and find charming fruit and veggie gardens. There's even a tennis court and lovely fountains, making it a peaceful place.

Indulge in the Region's Renowned Wine Culture

The Loire Valley is famous for its beautiful scenery and old castles. It's also well-known for its great wine culture. The Bouvet-Ladubay winery is a top place to visit, loved by both wine experts and beginners.

Wine Tasting at Bouvet-Ladubay

In the heart of the Loire Valley, Bouvet-Ladubay is a great spot to learn about and taste sparkling wine. The winery offers a tour through its huge underground cellars, that stretch for about 10 miles. Here, you can see how they make this special bubbly wine.

The tour ends with a wine tasting. Guests can enjoy tasting different Bouvet-Ladubay wines. Their experts help visitors understand and enjoy the wonderful wines of the Loire Valley.

For those who like to be active, the winery also has cycling tours. These tours let you see the beautiful vineyards and land around the winery at your own speed.

Immerse Yourself in the Arts and Culture of Tours

Tours, in the historical Loire Valley, is filled with art and culture. Here you can find the famous Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours. It's a must-see for anyone who loves art.

This museum is in an old bishop's palace. It holds a lot of France's art. You can see beautiful paintings by Rubens and Monet. There are also amazing sculptures of old French kings. This place is a treasure trove of art.

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours

Walking through this museum is like stepping back in time. You'll see beautiful art and learn about the culture of Tours. Every painting and sculpture tells a story.

Experience the Beauty of the Loire Valley from Above

Want to see the Loire Valley in a unique way? Take a hot-air balloon ride over Amboise. Ballon Plaisir offers a chance to fly over vineyards and Château d'Amboise. You'll see views that most tourists miss.

This journey lets you see the valley's stunning views and historic sites from high above. Imagine floating above Amboise and seeing its famous spots with a guide's help. They'll tell you about the area's interesting past and its cultural treasures.

If you're looking for a special trip, a hot-air balloon ride here is perfect for romance or family fun. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and make memories you'll treasure from the heart of France.

Marvel at the Architectural Wonder of Chartres Cathedral

Get ready to be amazed. The Chartres Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It's also known as the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres. This iconic cathedral is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows and detailed stone work.

Inside, look up at the vast, high ceilings and the thin stone arches. They look like they're flying. Take in the beautiful stained glass panels. These vibrant works of art are from the medieval times.

Visit in summer for a special light show. It lights up the cathedral's Gothic architecture in a beautiful way. This show makes your visit even more special.

When you visit, look at the outside of the cathedral first. Then, go in to enjoy its quiet beauty. Don't miss the light show. It all adds up to an unforgettable experience. It's a top spot for anyone who loves history and culture.

Uncover the Legacy of Leonardo da Vinci

In the Loire Valley is the Château du Clos Lucé. This estate is special because Leonardo da Vinci once lived there. Leonardo, a famous artist, inventor, and scientist, stayed there for three years until he died in 1519.

Explore the Château du Clos Lucé

The Château du Clos Lucé is now a museum. It invites people from all over to learn about Leonardo da Vinci's life and work. You can explore the castle and see where he lived and created.

In its gardens, find models of Leonardo's unique inventions. These include tanks, flying machines, and detailed anatomical sketches. You'll also see a replica of the Mona Lisa and Leonardo's tomb.

Knowledgeable guides will enhance your visit. They share fascinating details about Leonardo da Vinci. This makes the experience both fascinating and inspiring.

Discover the Natural Wonders of Tours

In France's Loire Valley, Tours is a gem for exploring nature. Here, the Natural History Museum is a key stop for anybody interested in nature.

The museum shows off the region's wide variety of life. You'll see reptiles, amphibians, and insects up close on the second floor. Then, on the first floor, find a breathtaking mammoth exhibition. It takes you back in time and shows the area's natural history.

But there's more to the museum than these great displays. A library on the third floor lets visitors learn even more about the area's natural wonders. There are also interactive games for fun and learning.

If you love nature or want to explore Tours, don't miss the Natural History Museum. You'll be amazed by the region's natural wonders. And you'll come away with a deeper love for the life that makes this part of France special.

Embrace the Summer Vibes at La Guinguette

Feel the sun's embrace and the days becoming longer. This marks the perfect time to dive into summer in Tours. By paying a visit to the renowned La Guinguette cafe. It's a seasonal gem located next to the Loire River, bringing life and fun to the city from April to September.

Entering La Guinguette welcomes you with joy and music. Choose a table outside, enjoy the delicious local food, and pair it with a fine wine or cocktail. Here, you're set to enjoy the essence of summer amidst serene river views and historic buildings.

This spot shines with more than just great food. It's known for hosting events by the summer calendar full of life. Think open-air concerts and outdoor movies. This adds an extra layer of enjoyment, diving deep into the local culture and fun vibes. So, it's not just eating; it's a complete summer experience.

Looking for a spot for lunch, relaxation, or fun night out? La Guinguette caters to everything, perfectly capturing summer in Tours. Enjoy the pleasant weather, flavorful local dishes, and a great time. It's a memorable spot by the river, indeed.

Cycle Through the Picturesque Countryside

Looking to see the beautiful countryside near Tours? Add a cycling trip on the Loire à Vélo path through Orléans to your list. This pretty path takes you through the Loire Valley countryside, past small towns and historical sites.

The Loire à Vélo path is well-kept and 800 kilometers long, going from the Atlantic to Loire's heart. In Orléans, it’s easy to rent a bike and sign up online. This lets you see the beautiful views and learn about the area's culture.

Loire à Vélo Cycle Path in Orléans

On the way in Orléans, the stunning Loire River waits. You'll cycle by rolling hills, quaint villages, and old châteaux. The paths are clear, making it simple to enjoy the peace of the countryside and see the charm of each town.

Love cycling or just looking for a scenic adventure? The Loire à Vélo path in Orléans is a great choice. It's a memorable way to see the stunning Loire Valley.

Tours, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Exploring Tours, France opens a door to amazing experiences. You'll see rich history, beautiful landscapes, and lively culture. Visit the stunning châteaux of Loire Valley and enjoy the famous wines. Your trip will be both fun and enriching.

Outside Tours, more wonders wait in places like the French Riviera and Paris. See magnificent sites like Chartres Cathedral or remember Leonardo da Vinci's legacy. Tours and its nearby areas grab your attention and make unforgettable memories.

Planning a trip through France? Our guide will show you the best things to do and top picks. It will help make your time in Tours and surrounding areas extraordinary.

Conclusion

Tours, France is a place full of amazing adventures in the Loire Valley. It's known for its old châteaux, famous wine, lively arts, and beautiful nature. This city is perfect for anyone looking for fun.

You might have seen the stunning Chartres Cathedral or learned about Leonardo da Vinci here. Or maybe you enjoyed the summer days by the Loire River. Tours mixes history, culture, and nature in a lovely way. Say goodbye to this wonderful place, and take with you a love for what France's heart has to give.

Tours is the first step to explore the stunning Loire Valley and more. The city is full of beautiful views, important sites, and chances for excitement. Keep on exploring to find the hidden gems of this amazing part of France.