Must-Sees for September

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...

Azay-le-Rideau - Villandry
Validity: 1 year - Price: €28

With the Pass Châteaux “Renaissance”, follow in the footsteps of two symbols of the Loire Valley: the château d’Azay-le-Rideau and the château & gardens de Villandry.

Built during the reign of Francis I, the château d’Azay-le-Rideau appears to float on the water thanks to its famous “water mirror,” which reflects its Renaissance façade onto the Indre River. It’s impossible not to be moved by its architecture, which blends Gothic traditions with Italian influences! It’s also a sight to behold from the gardens along the water’s edge.
The must-see exhibition: “Karen Knorr Lives in the Castle”, running from June 13 to November 1, a retrospective of more than forty years of work by the American photographer.

At the château de Villandry, the famous Renaissance gardens take center stage. Designated a “Remarkable Garden”, they captivate visitors with their geometric flowerbeds, decorative ponds, and ornamental vegetable garden, which change with the seasons. The tour continues inside the château, built in the 18th century, where elegant furnishings, floral arrangements in every room, and a collection of antique Spanish paintings attest to the refinement of this historic residence.

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

Highlights

• Castles and outdoor settings that invite you to take in the scenery
• A single pass for access to two 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

Chinon - Azay-le-Rideau - Villandry - Langeais
Validity: 1 year - Price: €48

With the Pass Château “The Authentics”, explore four must-see destinations: the Royal Fortress de Chinon the château d’Azay-le-Rideau, the château and gardens de Villandry, and the château de Langeais.

On the banks of the Vienne River, discover the Royal Fortress de Chinon and its thousand years of history. Henry II Plantagenet, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Joan of Arc all left their mark here. Today, this medieval castle comes to life through reenactments, interactive tours, and family-friendly activities within its ramparts.
The must-see exhibition: “Royal Treasures”, May 24 through November 2, featuring 60 works bequeathed by the kings, queens, and princes of French history.

Built during the reign of Francis I, the château d’Azay-le-Rideau appears to float on water thanks to its famous “water mirror,” which reflects its Renaissance façade onto the Indre River. It’s impossible not to be moved by its architecture, which blends Gothic traditions with Italian influences! It’s also a sight to behold from the gardens along the water’s edge.
The must-see exhibition: “Karen Knorr Lives in the Castle”, from June 13 to November 1, a retrospective of more than forty years of work by the American photographer.

At the château de Villandry, the famous Renaissance gardens take center stage. Designated a “Remarkable Garden”, they captivate visitors with their geometric flowerbeds, decorative ponds, and ornamental vegetable garden, which change with the seasons. The tour continues inside the château, built in the 18th century, where elegant furnishings, floral arrangements in every room, and a collection of antique Spanish paintings attest to the refinement of this historic residence.

Another must-see stop in the Loire Valley: the château de Langeais. With its drawbridge, towers, and moat right in the heart of town, a trip back in time is guaranteed! 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!

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

Highlights

• An ideal way to journey through history
• A single pass for access to four must-see sites
• A digital pass, convenient and easy to use

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 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