In perpetual effervesence, Tours has a knack for combining the gentleness of the Loire with urban vitality. When the sun goes down, the city reveals a festive and convivial atmosphere, from the banks of the Loire to the historic quarters, far from the traditional image of “sleeping beauty”.
Tours has a great sense of festivity, an effervescence created by the city’s 30,000 students. From May to September, the banks of the royal river become an unmissable meeting place. “La Guinguette de Tours”, a cocktail bar, restaurant and concert stage.
“Tourangelle” evenings on the banks of the Loire river
Here, you can board one of the traditional boats for a “sunset aperitif”… A short distance upstream, Rochecorbon is the place to enjoy the winning cocktail of “Loire fries, java and bowling contests” on the floor of France’s largest guinguette!
The Old city of Tours, the vibrant heart of the city
Back on solid ground, Tours can be explored along its cobbled streets, squares and timber-framed facades. The Place Châteauneuf, with Italian charm and view of the Tour Charlemagne, offers an elegant pause before returning to the inevitable Place Plumereau. Voted “one of the most beautiful squares to enjoy a drink by the Lonely Planet, it unfurls its café terraces, tapas bars and restaurants in a picture-postcard setting. An epicenter of local life of the city, it guarantees lively evenings, in summer and winter alike.
Tours is an invitation to take it easy, savor the moment and enjoy the festive energy.