Perfect Weekend in Tours by Train: Loire Valley Castles, Markets & Riverfront Walks
- Feb 21
- 2 min read
Tours is the perfect base for exploring the Loire Valley by train — lively, elegant and full of culture. With direct rail connections from Paris, Nantes, Bordeaux and Blois, it’s an excellent car-free weekend break.
This guide covers what to see, where to eat, Loire dishes, where to stay, day trips and how to arrive smoothly by train.
Why Go?
Tours offers a walkable old town, vibrant markets, excellent food and easy train access to the region’s greatest châteaux. It’s a pleasant city with a relaxed feel and strong café culture.
A Bit of History
Tours was a major Roman and medieval city, later becoming an important stop on pilgrimage routes. Its historic districts and Renaissance houses reflect centuries of prosperity.
What to Expect
Expect charming timber houses, wide boulevards, good shopping and lively squares filled with cafés. The riverfront is beautiful for walking.
Five Things to See and Do
Place Plumereau
A lively square filled with half-timbered houses and cafés — one of Tours’ most iconic spots.
Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
A stunning Gothic cathedral with colourful stained glass and an elegant cloister.
Les Halles Market
An excellent indoor market with cheeses, pastries, wines and local produce.
Musée des Beaux-Arts
A lovely small art museum housed in a former bishop’s palace.
Day Trips to Amboise, Chenonceau or Blois
All less than 30 minutes by train — perfect for château-hopping.
Food Culture
Loire cuisine is fresh, elegant and wine-driven: goat cheese, rillettes, mushrooms, river fish and crisp white wines.
Tours Food Explained
Rillettes – Slow-cooked pork spread.
Tarte Tatin – Caramelised apple tart.
Goat cheeses – Particularly Sainte-Maure.
Friture – Small fried river fish.
Vouvray – Local sparkling and still wines.
Where to Eat
La Deuvalière – Modern French cuisine.
Le Bistrot d’Éric – Excellent seafood.
La Roche Le Roy – Fine dining in a manor house.
Place Plumereau cafés – Great for casual meals.
Where to Stay
Oceania L’Univers Tours – Classic comfort.
Hotel Ronsard – Boutique option.
Hôtel de l’Opéra – Budget-friendly and central.
Off the Beaten Track
Jardin des Prébendes: A peaceful 19th-century park perfect for a quiet walk.
How to Get There by Train
From Paris Montparnasse: Around 1 hr by TGV to Tours/St-Pierre-des-Corps.
From Nantes: About 1 hr 50 mins.
From Blois: Around 35 mins.
Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Place Plumereau, tour the cathedral, wander the boulevards and enjoy dinner near the old town.
Day 2 : Morning market visit. Afternoon château excursion (Amboise or Chenonceau). Return for a Loire wine tasting.
Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.
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