Hotels in Tours

Whispers of History: Unveiling the Enchantment of Cathedrals, Castles, and Gardens

Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, Tours is a charming blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Known as the Garden of France, this picturesque city boasts beautiful gardens, magnificent châteaux, and the impressive Tours Cathedral. Stroll through the vibrant center, where local markets offer a taste of authentic French life, or relax along the serene banks of the Loire River. Explore nearby castles, indulge in regional wines, and enjoy the mild climate year-round. With its rich heritage and romantic ambiance, Tours is an enchanting destination for travelers seeking a quintessential French experience. For the best hotel rates in Tours, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Tours

Some of the best places to stay in Tours are Amboise, Chinon and Chambray-les-Tours. Amboise, Chinon, and Chambray-les-Tours each offer unique experiences for travelers. Amboise is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring the majestic Château d'Amboise and charming streets. Chinon boasts rich history and beautiful vineyards, while Chambray-les-Tours is perfect for a quieter stay near Tours. Hotel accommodations range from budget-friendly options to luxury stays, with many charming boutiques and modern hotels available in each area, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler’s preference. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Tours:

1. AmboiseOpens in a new window: Amboise is a charming town rich in culture and history, famous for its stunning castles and beautiful landscapes. Key attractions include the Clos Lucé Castle, a historic residence of Leonardo da Vinci, and the romantic Château d'Amboise. For accommodation, consider Le Manoir les MinimesOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel set in a historic building, ideal for those seeking a premium experience. Château de NoizayOpens in a new window also offers a similar upscale experience with business amenities. For a family-friendly option, Auberge du Bon LaboureurOpens in a new window provides adventure sports and recreation activities onsite or nearby, making it perfect for active travelers.
2. ChinonOpens in a new window: Chinon is known for its impressive historic forts and romantic castles, making it an attractive destination for culture enthusiasts. The Royal Fortress of Chinon and Château d'Usse are must-visit sites. For a comfortable stay, Château de MarçayOpens in a new window is a boutique 4-star hotel that welcomes pets and features uniquely designed decor. Fontevraud L'ErmitageOpens in a new window is another great choice, offering family-friendly amenities and a golf experience. Additionally, La Marine de Loire Hôtel & SpaOpens in a new window provides adventure sports like horse riding and hiking, making it ideal for outdoor lovers.
3. Chambray-les-ToursOpens in a new window: Chambray-les-Tours offers a blend of culture and business-friendly amenities, with attractions such as the Parc des Expositions de Tours and the Vinci International Convention Centre. Les TrésorièresOpens in a new window is a luxurious spa hotel in the city center, featuring wellness facilities to rejuvenate after a day of exploring. For more family-oriented travelers, Château d'ArtignyOpens in a new window provides adventure activities, while Chateau D'artignyOpens in a new window offers a luxury experience tailored for those seeking relaxation and comfort.

Things to do in Tours for first time

A three-day visit to Tours offers a delightful blend of stunning gardens, serene parks, and charming riverside views. Travelers can enjoy leisurely boating, scenic hikes, and peaceful picnics amidst lush landscapes, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Tours:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Château de Villandry, renowned for its stunning gardens and Renaissance architecture. After exploring the castle, head to the Cave of Goupillières, where you can discover fascinating underground caves that tell tales of the region's history. Finally, unwind in the picturesque Valley of the Goupillières, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk amidst beautiful scenery, offering a serene end to your day.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Prieuré de St-Cosme, a historical priory that provides a glimpse into the life of the French poet Ronsard. Next, visit the Domaine de Candé, where you can explore the beautiful estate and its lush gardens. Conclude your day at the impressive La Forteresse du Faucon Noir, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views and a deep dive into the area's rich history.
• Day 3: Your morning begins at the Priory of Lavaray, a quaint and charming site perfect for history enthusiasts. Continue your exploration at the Château d'Amboise, a majestic castle overlooking the Loire River, filled with art and culture. Wrap up your itinerary with a visit to the Clos Lucé Castle, where you can learn about Leonardo da Vinci's life in France, enjoying the beautiful gardens and interactive exhibits that make history come alive.

5 tips to find a great Tours hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those traveling on a budget, the most affordable time to visit Tours is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. To truly experience the city's highlights, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. While in Tours, visitors can explore its stunning cathedral, beautiful gardens, and historic castle, all of which offer great value for money and an enriching experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Explore exciting last-minute deals to Tours, where you could find great savings on hotels and enjoy flexible, refundable options. To discover these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com for discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and unique promotions, helping you capitalize on opportunities to save on your travel accommodations. Plus, you can take advantage of price guarantees, ensuring you get the best deal available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Tours.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Tours is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses, trams, or bikes to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Tours and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Tours

Here are a few popular dishes in Tours, Indre-et-Loire, France:

• Baguette: The quintessential French bread, a baguette is known for its crispy crust and airy interior. In Tours, you can find artisanal bakeries where these loaves are crafted daily. Enjoy it fresh, perhaps with some local cheese or cured meats, making it a perfect picnic option in the picturesque parks of the city.
• Croissant: This flaky pastry is a breakfast staple in Tours, often enjoyed with coffee. Made with layers of buttery dough, the croissant reflects the region's baking traditions. You can savor it plain or filled with almond paste, chocolate, or even ham and cheese, adapting your experience to your taste preferences.

Best time to go to Tours

Tours experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 40.5°F (4.7°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 68.4°F (20.2°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Tours, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.