Must-Sees for August

Duration: 1 day - Price: €28
This is THE ideal pass for an urban and cultural getaway in Tours! It allows you to enjoy the city's museums and surrounding castles, and to access the destination's must-see attractions in complete freedom.
This Pass gives you free access to 9 tourist and cultural sites in Tours and the surrounding area:

• Tours Castle,
• Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre,
• Museum of Fine Arts,
• Compagnonnage Museum,
• Natural History Museum,
• Cloître de la Psalette,
• Prieuré Saint-Cosme,
• Villandry Castle and Gardens,
• Azay-le-Rideau Castle,
• Hôtel Goüin,
• Cave de Vouvray,
• Les Grandes Caves Saint Roch.

• 10% discount on canoe hire in Vouvray
• 10% discount on a ride in a 2CV
• 10% discount on your drinks at Au Temps des Rois, Place Plumereau
• 5% discount at the Atelier Saint Michel
• 10% discount at Fromages de Camille
• A complimentary bottle of Vouvray brut or demi-sec for two Tours City Pass holders who have booked a ‘From the vine to the glass’ tasting tour, an introduction to wine tasting or a wine course with Rendez-vous dans les Vignes
• 5% discount on a sidecar ride
• 10% discount on cookery courses and wine workshops...

Duration: 2 days - Price: €38
This is THE ideal pass for an urban and cultural getaway in Tours! It allows you to enjoy the city's museums and surrounding castles, and to access the destination's must-see attractions in complete freedom.
This Pass gives you free access to 9 tourist and cultural sites in Tours and the surrounding area:

• Tours Castle,
• Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre,
• Museum of Fine Arts,
• Compagnonnage Museum,
• Natural History Museum,
• Cloître de la Psalette,
• Prieuré Saint-Cosme,
• Villandry Castle and Gardens,
• Azay-le-Rideau Castle,
• Hôtel Goüin,
• Cave de Vouvray,
• Les Grandes Caves Saint Roch.

• 10% discount on canoe hire in Vouvray
• 10% discount on a ride in a 2CV
• 10% discount on your drinks at Au Temps des Rois, Place Plumereau
• 5% discount at the Atelier Saint Michel
• 10% discount at Fromages de Camille
• A complimentary bottle of Vouvray brut or demi-sec for two Tours City Pass holders who have booked a ‘From the vine to the glass’ tasting tour, an introduction to wine tasting or a wine course with Rendez-vous dans les Vignes
• 5% discount on a sidecar ride
• 10% discount on cookery courses and wine workshops...

Duration: 3 days - Price: €45
This is THE ideal pass for an urban and cultural getaway in Tours! It allows you to enjoy the city's museums and surrounding castles, and to access the destination's must-see attractions in complete freedom.
This Pass gives you free access to 9 tourist and cultural sites in Tours and the surrounding area:

• Tours Castle,
• Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre,
• Museum of Fine Arts,
• Compagnonnage Museum,
• Natural History Museum,
• Cloître de la Psalette,
• Prieuré Saint-Cosme,
• Villandry Castle and Gardens,
• Azay-le-Rideau Castle,
• Hôtel Goüin,
• Cave de Vouvray,
• Les Grandes Caves Saint Roch.

• 10% discount on canoe hire in Vouvray
• 10% discount on a ride in a 2CV
• 10% discount on your drinks at Au Temps des Rois, Place Plumereau
• 5% discount at the Atelier Saint Michel
• 10% discount at Fromages de Camille
• A complimentary bottle of Vouvray brut or demi-sec for two Tours City Pass holders who have booked a ‘From the vine to the glass’ tasting tour, an introduction to wine tasting or a wine course with Rendez-vous dans les Vignes
• 5% discount on a sidecar ride
• 10% discount on cookery courses and wine workshops...

Duration : 1h30 - Price : 7€
Take a guided tour of the emblematic Vieux Tours district, which stretches around Place Plumereau, led by a tour guide.

Medieval timber-framed and stone houses stand side by side with exceptional town houses. These homes bear witness to the prosperity of this part of the town, which grew up around a huge collegiate church dedicated to Saint Martin. Once home to the body of the saint, it was the centre of one of the oldest pilgrimages in Christendom.
This tour has been awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire label.

Duration: 2h - Price: from 7€
Discover Tours in a whole new light with this night-time guided tour along the ‘Parcours Lumière’.

Take a new look at the city as night falls. The ‘Parcours Lumière’ highlights Tours by magnifying its monuments and natural spaces. The streets of Vieux-Tours, the timber-framed houses of Place Plumereau, the Basilique Saint-Martin, the Tour Charlemagne, the Grand Théâtre... the urban landscape reveals a different face as you take this tour. A not-to-be-missed opportunity to discover the city in a different way!

This tour has been awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire label.

Duration: 2h - Price: from 7€
From the founding of Tours in the 1st century to the flourishing of the Renaissance, discover the city through the key dates in its history under the guidance of a tour guide.

The city of Tours was founded in the 1st century on the left bank of the Loire. In the Middle Ages, two distinct areas developed: one built around the Cathedral, the other around a huge collegiate church dedicated to Saint Martin, the Châteauneuf area, also known as Old Tours. Tours was the royal capital from 1440 to 1520, and at the end of the Middle Ages and beginning of the Renaissance, almost all of the city's residences were rebuilt. From this flourishing period, the town inherited a homogeneous collection of old houses and religious buildings, which you can discover on this tour.

This tour has been awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire label.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours - Price: €49
Combine cultural discovery with fine dining on this audio-guided tour of Tours.
An intuitive app guides you at your own pace, without the constraints of a group. As you wander, you’ll hear explanations about the heritage and key points of interest in the city’s historic centre, along with directions to help you find your way easily, without needing to look at your screen. The tour also includes gourmet stops at carefully selected venues, where you can savour local produce and specialities. An ideal experience for lunchtime.

Duration: 1h30 - Price: €10
Discover Tours by bike after dark, accompanied by a tour guide. This tour along the ‘Parcours Lumière’ offers a different perspective on Tours' iconic sites and heritage. You will pass through the streets of Old Tours, Place Plumereau and its half-timbered houses, Saint Martin's Basilica, Charlemagne Tower and, further east, Saint Gatien Cathedral and the Grand Théâtre.
This tour is offered in partnership with Accueil Vélo & Rando.
If you’re the DIY type, you’re welcome to come repair your bike yourself at the self-service repair shop located inside the Accueil Vélo & Rando.

Highlights of the walk:

• A 6 km route through the city
• At dusk, a subtle play of light showcases the monuments and urban spaces

Duration: 4h - Price: €10
Treat yourself to a wonderful nature getaway by bike from Tours to Montlouis-sur-Loire! Accompanied by an eco-guide, this loop invites you to discover the flora, fauna, and landscapes along the banks of the Loire.

Along the way, observe the local biodiversity and discover the richness of the natural environments that shape the Touraine landscape.

This ride is offered in partnership with Accueil Vélo & Rando.
If you’re the DIY type, you’re welcome to come repair your bike yourself at the self-service repair shop located inside the Accueil Vélo & Rando.

Highlights of this ride:

• A beautiful 25-km bike ride
• Ideal for cyclists looking to combine the joy of riding with exploration and the great outdoors.

Duration: 3 hours - Price: €10
Nature and relaxation guaranteed with this 15 km loop accompanied by a guide who will take you along the ‘La Loire à Vélo’ route between Tours and the Ile de la Métairie in Ville-aux-Dames.

On the agenda: discovering the Loire environment, its fauna, flora and landscapes. This Sensitive Natural Area also offers an educational and fun trail.
This ride is offered in partnership with Accueil Vélo & Rando.
If you’re the DIY type, you’re welcome to come repair your bike yourself at the self-service repair shop located inside the Accueil Vélo & Rando.

The advantages of this ride:

• A route accessible to all along the Loire
• An educational approach to the river's preserved natural heritage

Duration: 1h45 - Price: from €11 - From 4 July to 15 August 2026 
A magnificent show to see and to offer, 450 extras will take you on a journey through time, from the Gallo-Roman period to the French Revolution.
A historical fresco without equal in the Loire Valley.

Chambord - Chenonceau - Amboise
Validity: 1 year - Price: from €53

With the Pass Châteaux “The Essentials”, set out to explore the top three castles of the Loire Valley: Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise.

The château de Chambord impresses with its monumental architecture and its famous double-helix staircase. A symbol of royal power and the French art of living, it embodies all the grandeur of the Loire Valley castles.

Nicknamed the “Ladies’ Castle”, Chenonceau charms visitors with its unique elegance, its architecture spanning the Cher River, and its history shaped by exceptional women. A true Renaissance gem, it is one of the most visited and beloved sites in the Loire Valley.

The château royal d'Amboise, located in the heart of the town, served as the royal residence of Charles VIII and Francis I and is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb. This castle offers an exceptional view of the Loire River, best enjoyed from its gardens.
The must-see exhibition: “On the Trail of the Traveling Princes”, running from June 9 to September 20, which highlights Renaissance-era expeditions.

The Pass “The Essentials”, valid for one year from the date of purchase, gives you simple and convenient access to these three sites on a single pass.

Highlights

• A combination of the three most-visited castles in the Loire Valley
• A single pass for access to three must-see sites
• A digital pass, convenient and easy to use

Chambord - Chenonceau
Validity: 1 year - Price: from €38

With the Pass Châteaux “The Icons”, treat yourself to an immersive experience at the heart of the Loire Valley’s two most emblematic monuments: Chambord and Chenonceau.

The château de Chambord impresses with its monumental architecture and its famous double-helix staircase. A symbol of royal power and the French art of living, it embodies all the grandeur of the Loire Valley castles.

Nicknamed the “Ladies’ Castle,” Chenonceau charms visitors with its unique elegance, its architecture spanning the Cher River, and its history shaped by exceptional women. A true Renaissance gem, it is one of the most visited and beloved sites in the Loire Valley.

The Pass “The Icons”, valid for one year from the date of purchase, provides you with simple and convenient access to both of these sites on a single digital pass.

Highlights

• Your key to visiting the two most famous sites in the Loire Valley
• A single pass for access to two must-see sites
• A digital pass, convenient and easy to use

Langeais - Loches - Chinon
Validity: 1 year - Price: €34

With the Pass Châteaux “The Medievals”, discover three iconic sites of the Middle Ages: the Château de Langeais, the Cité Royale de Loches, and the Forteresse Royale de Chinon.

With its drawbridge, towers, and moat right in the heart of town, the château de Langeais is a historic icon of the Middle Ages! This 15th-century fortified site was notably the setting for a royal wedding: that of Anne of Brittany and Charles VIII. In the park, a lookout point and a massive treehouse built in an Atlas cedar offer breathtaking views of the castle and the Loire Valley.

With its 37-meter-tall keep, the Cité Royale de Loches leaves visitors in awe! Once a seat of power, it has welcomed “historical figures” such as Joan of Arc, Agnès Sorel, and Louis XI. From its ramparts, you can admire the charming medieval town of Loches.

To round out your trip in style, head to the Forteresse Royale de Chinon on the banks of the Vienne River. Henry II Plantagenet, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Joan of Arc all left their mark on this castle over the course of its thousand-year history. Today, you can explore it through reenactments, interactive tours, and family-friendly activities within its ramparts.
The must-see exhibition: “Royal Treasures”, running from May 24 to November 2, featuring 60 works bequeathed by the kings, queens, and princes of French history.

The Pass “The Medievals”, valid for one year from the date of purchase, gives you simple and convenient access to these three sites with a single pass.

Highlights

• Discover Touraine’s medieval past through a selection of three must-see castles in the region
• One pass for access to three must-see sites
• A digital pass, convenient and easy to use

9 Must-See Castles in the Loire Valley
Validity: 1 year - Price: from €128

With the Pass Châteaux “Premium”, you’ll have nine must-see castles in the Loire Valley at your fingertips (Chambord - Chenonceau - Amboise - Clos Lucé - Villandry - Azay-le-Rideau - Loches - Langeais - Chaumont-sur-Loire).

Château de Chambord: internationally renowned with over 1.2 million visitors each year, it is a symbol of royal power and the French art of living.

Château de Chenonceau: nicknamed the “Castle of the Ladies,” it captivates visitors with its architecture spanning the Cher River and its history shaped by exceptional women. A true Renaissance gem, it is one of the most visited and beloved sites in the Loire Valley.

Château royal d'Amboise: built on a hillside, the château royal d'Amboise offers a 360° view of the Loire landscapes, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s no wonder this palace was one of the favorite sites of the kings of France!
The must-see exhibition: “On the Trail of the Traveling Princes”, running from June 9 to September 20, which highlights Renaissance-era expeditions.

Château du Clos Lucé: exploring this place is like stepping behind the scenes of one of the Renaissance’s most brilliant inventors! From his bedroom to his workshop, via his models and giant machines, the world of Leonardo da Vinci will hold no more secrets for you.
 
Château & gardens de Villandry: With its gardens designated as “Jardin Remarquable,” this Renaissance gem is a must-see in the Loire Valley! Geometric flowerbeds, an ornamental vegetable garden, an Andalusian-style garden, a maze… everything is designed to create a colorful journey! Next, visit the château and its richly furnished rooms, adorned with floral arrangements.

Château d’Azay-le-Rideau: perched on its “water mirror,” which reflects its Renaissance façade onto the Indre River, this monument blends Gothic architecture with Italian influences—a sight to admire from the gardens as well, right by the water’s edge.
The must-see exhibition: “Karen Knorr Lives in the Castle” from June 13 to November 1—a retrospective of over forty years of work by the American photographer.

Cité Royale de Loches: with its 37-meter-tall keep, it towers over the town and invites you on a journey back in time. Once a seat of power, this fortified city has welcomed “historical figures” such as Joan of Arc, Agnès Sorel, and Anne of Brittany.

Château de Langeais: It’s hard not to stop and admire Langeais Castle with its drawbridge, towers, and moat right in the heart of town! This 15th-century fortified site was notably the setting for a royal wedding: that of Anne of Brittany and Charles VIII.

Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire: a leading name in the world of art and gardens, it hosts the International Garden Festival every year, as well as a permanent collection of contemporary artworks in its park and within the castle walls.
The event not to be missed: the International Garden Festival, from April 19 to November 2, with the theme “The Garden Takes Center Stage” in 2026.

The Pass “Premium”, valid for one year from the date of purchase, gives you easy and convenient access to these nine sites with a single pass.

Highlights

• A special rate that saves you €25 on admission
• A single Pass for access to nine of the Loire Valley’s most iconic châteaux, valid for one year from the date of purchase
• A digital Pass, convenient and easy to use

Duration: 1h - Price: €30
Take advantage of the sunny days to treat yourself to an aperitif cruise on the Loire River, departing from Tours with the Boutavant association. Take a seat aboard a traditional boat for a one-hour cruise and enjoy the late-afternoon light on the river. A basket of Tours specialties and a glass of wine will accompany this timeless experience.

Highlights
•    Enjoy the Loire in its most beautiful light
•    The perfect opportunity to unwind and let yourself drift away
•    Passionate boat captains who share their knowledge of the river, its flora, and fauna
•    A gourmet aperitif featuring 100% local Tours specialties

Duration: 1h 30m - Price: starting at €20
The Rabouilleuse - Ecole de Loire association has two sailboats that can each accommodate up to 12 passengers for trips that emphasize sustainable transportation (sailing or rowing).

Upstream from Tours, board at Rochecorbon and sail down the Loire along the riverbanks for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The highlights of this trip: the light on the Loire, spotting its wildlife, the charm of its islands, and taking in the scenery…

When the winds are favorable, the sail is hoisted; otherwise, the motor, oars, or a “bourde” (traditional rowing boat) are used. In any case, part of the route is dedicated to “soft mobility” (without a motor) to better savor the river’s rhythm.

Highlights
•    An activity perfect for unwinding just a stone’s throw from Tours
•    Insights into the local flora and fauna from passionate boatmen
•    A guaranteed smooth and peaceful cruise

Duration: 2½ hours - Price: from €36
With La Rabouilleuse, enjoy a truly special experience on the Loire at sunset aboard a traditional boat.
Just upstream from Tours, along the slopes of Rochecorbon and Vouvray, La Rabouilleuse invites you to discover the Loire through its unique atmosphere and colours. What we offer: the light of the Loire, the chance to spot wildlife, the charm of its islands, and the chance to take in the scenery… Come and enjoy it all!
When the winds are favourable, we set sail; otherwise, we use the engine, oars or a paddle. In all circumstances, we include a section of the trip using gentle propulsion (without the engine) to better savour the river’s rhythm.
You’re welcome to bring your own aperitif basket to share, if you wish, with the other guests. A convivial atmosphere guaranteed!

 
Please note that the outings on Sunday, August 30, and Sunday, September 27, will be themed tours led by subject matter experts:
August 30: Swimming in the Loire vs. Dragonflies, led by Renaud Baeta (Be Caudalis)
September 27: An archaeo-zoological tour led by Marie-Pierre Roue-Horard (MSH)

Highlights
•    Watch the sunset over the Loire from aboard a traditional boat
•    A friendly experience, with the option to bring your own appetizer basket to share!
An ideal cruise to learn all about the flora and fauna of the Loire.



 

Duration: 3 hours - Price: starting at €22.50
With family or friends, set off on an adventure on the water!
Take your time on the banks of the Loire, admire the scenery, and soak up this relaxing moment and the wonders of nature. To make the most of your day, there’s no time limit on your trip!

“La Découverte” is a 6-km trip between Rochecorbon and Tours, ideal for a first canoeing or kayaking experience and for a taste of adventure. The tour departs from Tours by minibus to Rochecorbon, where the trip begins.

Highlights
•    An easy route, accessible to everyone
•    Transportation from Tours included to make planning easier
•    A perfect activity to mix things up from cultural visits in the Loire Valley

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes - Price: starting at €21
Departing from Savonnières, a former village of boatmen and fishermen, board a traditional 18th- or 19th-century boat (12 passengers) for a 1.5-hour guided tour. Change of scenery and peace guaranteed!

Highlights

• 4 departure times throughout the day: 10:00 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., or 6:15 p.m.
• Commentary from the boatman to learn more about the local flora and fauna
• Tours with a maximum of 12 participants

Duration: 2h - Price: €36
This 2-hour sunset excursion is an invitation to (re)connect with the natural environment of the Loire. It’s a magical moment when you let yourself be carried along by the current and the light of the setting sun—the best time to spot birds and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of that elusive and little-known animal: the European beaver! So… don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

To make this trip even more enjoyable, we highly recommend bringing a picnic to share (or not) with the other passengers!

Highlights
•    A unique atmosphere that invites you to let yourself drift away
•    Birdwatching along the Loire
•    A friendly time among passengers (10 maximum!) over a picnic

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours - Price: from €20
How about exploring a famous Loire Valley castle by stand-up paddleboard? Embark on a tour along the Indre River that will take you to the foot of the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau—an experience to enjoy as a couple or with up to eight people on the same board!

Highlights
•    A unique perspective on the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau
•    A fun and original activity to share with family or friends
•    A nature getaway combining gentle exercise, relaxation, and exploration

Duration: 1 hour - Price: €32 for 2 persons
A visit to the Cave de Vouvray is a real journey into the world of Vouvray. A journey in several stages, from vine to glass. Discover our new mediation space ‘Follow the Chenin’ where a sound and visual immersion in the world of cooperation awaits you. Follow our guide through 3 kilometres of troglodytic galleries where 6 million bottles are kept. He'll reveal the secrets of how our still and sparkling Vouvray wines are made. Your visit will end with a convivial tasting!

Duration: 3h - Price: €40
Immerse yourself for a few hours in a working family winery. It's a complete tour, from the grapes and vines to the glass of wine, that Myriam offers on this guided tour. 

Duration: 1h30 - Price: €22
Located 45 km from Tours, Château Minière, a committed Bourgueil vineyard, offers visitors the chance to discover the vineyard's finest organic and biodynamic wines, accompanied by a platter of charcuterie and cheese.
Visits are available every day, at several different times.

Duration: 1h00 - Price: €8
Visit our vineyard in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil for an immersive tour of our winery and cellar, discovering our winemaking expertise. Throughout the tour, trace the history of the Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil appellation, following in the footsteps of our ancestor Adrien Ory, the appellation's founder. The tour concludes with a guided tasting of our wines, a reflection of our terroir and family heritage:

• Red wine from Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil
• Red wine from Bourgueil
• Dry and aromatic white wine from the IGP Val de Loire
• Dry and fruity Bourgueil rosé wine
• Crémant de Loire White and Rosé

Duration: 1h30 - Price: €16
Step into this unique place and discover wines steeped in history and terroir. The troglodyte cellar of Domaine de la Chopinière du Roy, located in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, is home to unique vintages, carefully preserved in an authentic setting.
After the tour and tasting of an old vintage, you’ll have the chance to sample the estate’s current cuvées, offering a great opportunity to compare aged wines with more recent ones.
Discover our Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil wines, Bourgueil wines and Loire wines, typical of the region:

• Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil 100% Cabernet Franc
• Bourgueil 100% Cabernet Franc
• Dry, aromatic Chenin Blanc
• Rosé dry and fruity
• Crémant de Loire White and Rosé