Medieval Streets to Gourmet Eats: Audio Tour of the City of Tours

Tours is a city with Roman origins that entices you to explore its rich historical heritage. During this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover the city’s remarkable evolution, from Antiquity to the Middle Ages, through the Renaissance, and up to today. You’ll also see how each era has left its mark in Balzac’s birthplace. The tour begins at Place Châteauneuf, where the imposing Charlemagne Tower stands, a remnant of the former Saint-Martin Collegiate Church. Throughout the tour, you’ll receive recommendations for local products and restaurants showcasing the Loire Valley’s gastronomic heritage. The tour ends in the heart of the city, the Place Jean Jaurès where you'll be able to admire the imposing Town Hall.

1. 1

   Collegiale Saint Martin et Tour Charlemagne

   Pass by

   Begin at the imposing Charlemagne Tower, a remnant of the former Saint-Martin Collegiate Church that once dominated Tours. Explore this medieval monument that stands as a testament to the city's religious importance throughout history.

2. 2

   Cathedrale Saint-Gatien

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   Marvel at this magnificent Gothic cathedral with its soaring spires and stunning stained glass windows spanning five centuries. Discover a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture that took nearly 400 years to complete.

3. 3

   Stop 3

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   Stroll through this vibrant covered market where local vendors display the bounty of the Loire Valley. Enjoy discovering Touraine specialties including rillettes and the famous pastry called "le Nougat de Tours."

4. 4

   Place Plumereau

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   Walk into one of the most beautiful squares in France, surrounded by charming half-timbered houses from the 1400s. Experience the heart of old Tours where cobbled streets and medieval architecture create the perfect setting for an aperitif.

5. 5

   Stop 5

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   Pass along this historic street lined with Renaissance mansions featuring finely sculpted facades. Explore how Tours' wealthy merchants displayed their prosperity through stunning architectural details.

6. 6

   Hotel Gouin

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   (Renaissance mansion on the tour route) Admire this exceptional Renaissance mansion with its Italian-inspired façade showcasing intricate stone carvings. Discover a rare survivor of Tours' architectural heritage that escaped destruction over the centuries.

7. 7

   Stop 7

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   Pass by this elegant opera house designed by renowned Tours architect Victor Laloux, who also created the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. Marvel at the Belle Époque grandeur that brought cultural sophistication to the Loire Valley.

8. 8

   Place Jean Jaures Fountain

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   End your tour at the heart of the city where the imposing Town Hall dominates this grand square. Experience the administrative and social center of Tours where history meets modern civic life.

9. 9

   Basilique Saint Martin

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   Explore this basilica built on the tomb of Saint Martin, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in medieval Europe. Discover how this sacred space has drawn pilgrims and shaped the city's identity for over 1,500 years.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    Pass by

    Stroll through this peaceful garden that offers a tranquil retreat in the historic center. Enjoy a moment of calm surrounded by greenery while reflecting on Tours' layered history.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.