Château de Tours

Close to our charming hotel

Constructed in front of the only bridge that crossed the Loire in the 11th century, the Château de Tours was originally more of a residential rather than a defensive structure. Owned by the Counts of Anjou until the beginning of the 13th century, it fell under royal control after the annexation of the Touraine province by Philippe Auguste. It was then that Louis IX made it a real fortress.

Today, the Château de Tours, located only 5 minutes from our charming hotel, makes for a good visit with remnants spanning its varied history. Here, you’ll find the Logis des Gouverneurs, the Tour du Cachot Secret and the Tour de Guise, a tower named after the young Duke of Guise who escaped from it after his father’s assassination. You’ll also be able to discover the Jeu de Paume collections, which house several exhibitions each year, and the Tours History Workshop, which traces the city’s history from its origins to the present day.

Tourism in Tours

A member of the “Cités de la Gastronomie” network, listed as a protected “City of Art and History” and the gateway to the Loire Valley with its regal fairytale castles, Tours is a place to enjoy a gentle way of life surrounded by outstanding cultural heritage.

Botanical garden

Between the Loire and Cher, the botanic garden is a lovely place to visit. On the south side, visit the arboretum where its range of beautiful, fragrant trees have made it an outstanding garden. There is also a petting zoo accessible to the public.

Musée des beaux-arts

In the former archbishop's palace located between the city’s château and station and 5 minutes on foot from the hotel, the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum) has an impressive collection of paintings. Its traditional French garden provides a lovely view of the cathedral.

Saint Gatien Cathedral

From its 13th century choir area to its façade of the 15th and 16th centuries, the city’s cathedral illustrates the evolution of Gothic architecture, but its crowning glory are its two Renaissance-era towers.

Place Plumereau

A pedestrian zone, this square is surrounded by beautiful 15th century timber-framed houses that alternate with stone buildings. On sunny days, take a seat at one of the café and restaurant terraces to watch the world go by.

Old Tours

Restored in the 1970s, Old Tours, centred around Place Plumereau, is an unmissable destination just a stone’s throw from the banks of the Loire. Wander down its ever-lively, traditional winding streets with its bustling shops.

Conference Centre

The Vinci International Conference Centre, designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, hosts countless concerts, dance shows, plays and musicals each year. As the name suggests, its large auditoriums also host business meetings.