Visitors to ‘Le Jardin de la France’ won’t be left wanting for things to fill their time. As its nickname suggests, Tours has several pristine and decorative gardens and parks for visitors to stroll around in, as well as being a stone’s throw from the beautiful chateau-dotted hills of Loire Valley.
For anyone more motivated by retail therapy than horticulture, there are beautiful boutiques and independent shops, not to mention more than thirty street markets across the city throughout the year. If those ideas don’t inspire you, there’s plenty more for you to explore in Tours.
The pretty Place Plumereau
In most older European cities, the most architecturally significant and aesthetically pleasing area to enjoy is usually in the ‘Old Town’. Normally found in the very centre, it gives a real indication of the history and culture of your destination. For a taste of ancient Tours, head to Place Plumereau.
The history of the city is evident as soon as you set foot in this medieval square. Surrounded by a warren of charming streets, the open space is framed by beautiful mansions, each marked with a criss-cross of ancient wooden beams.
Wander the square and marvel at the lasting history in this area of the city, or sit down and enjoy a coffee and a light bite as you take in the hubbub of this bustling place.
Take in a little fine art
While in the city, take the opportunity to visit one of the most exciting museums in France, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours. Housed within this gallery are some incredible works, by masters such as Rembrandt, Monet, Rubens, Delacroix, Degas and Rodin to name but a few.
As well as a fantastic collection of artwork, the building they’re housed in is equally impressive. The pristine white structure is nothing short of palatial. Once you’ve taken in the artwork, head outside and stroll around the lush gardens to get the best possible view of the building, best seen on a sunny day when all is serenity.
The sensational Château of Chambord
No exploration of French countryside would be complete without a visit to a beautiful castle or Château. There are many dotted among the rolling hills around Tours, but for the most memorable experience you should visit the Château de Chambord. It is, quite simply, one of the most breathtaking buildings in the world.
This enormous castle, with its distinctive French Renaissance architecture, is less than an hour’s drive east from Tours. Surrounded by enchanted forests full of wildlife, this magical place comes with some of the largest and most pristine formal gardens you’ll ever see.
Culture, cuisine, Châteaux and - above all - class. Tours and the area around it is as captivating as it is charming and you’re all but guaranteed to fall in love with it. Make life easy for yourself with car rental from Tours.
