The university town of Tours, France, lies in the lush and majestic Loire Valley, the region of France known for its fairy-tale chateaux and robust wines. Approximately 2.5 hours southwest of Paris, Tours makes for a splendid weekend getaway from the City of Lights.
© Daniel M. Cisilino | Dreamstime
Start the day with a croissant and café au lait at Hansel et Gretel, a cozy breakfast spot serving teas and cakes, as well as brunch specials during the weekend.
The city’s main attractions center around the Cathedral of Saint Galien, completed in the 12th century. Other notable sights include the Wilson Bridge, the botanical gardens and the Musée de Beaux-Arts. Architecture fiends will marvel at the town’s City Hall (Hotel de Ville), the Basilique de Saint Martin and Place Plumereau.
Hotel de Ville © Jose I. Soto | Dreamstime
After touring the museum and cathedral, head down Rue Colbert for a filling lunch of grilled sandwiches at Hell’s Kitchen.
A day or afternoon trip to the Loire Valley is an absolute must. The region’s chateaux transport visitors to a medieval fantasy land where royals lived in luxury and stories hum from within the stone walls. The castles of Chambord and Chenonceau are arguably the most recognized, while the castles in Blois and Amboise exhibit unique character and design. Entrance fees to tour the castles and gardens range from $10 to $15.
Read This Next
Under $100: Bordeaux
Under $100 / Europe
Apr 12, 2016#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Nov 6, 2026Mandarin Oriental Welcomes New Guest Experiences
Rather than focusing on just food and beverage offerings at its on-site restaurant and bars, Mandarin Oriental introduces a new approach to guest dining experiences around the globe.
Sponsored Content
A New Rhythm of Work in Seoul
SEOUL REDEFINES THE FUTURE OF WORKATION by seamlessly integrating business, leisure and culture across the city. From the established MICE hub of Magok to the creative energy and scenic lifestyle along the Han River, it offers a dynamic ecosystem where productivity and relaxation naturally coexist — positioning Seoul as a global destination for a new way of working and living.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 6, 2026The Ruxton Restaurant Coming to The Rittenhouse Hotel in Spring 2027
A new and dynamic culinary experience arrives at The Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia next spring. The Ruxton steakhouse will debut after a multimillion-dollar renovation at the hotel, marking the second concept from Atlas Restaurant Group in the city and the third location of The Ruxton.
North America
Nov 5, 2026Ocean Casino Resort Welcomes the Holiday Season with Themed Suites, Bar and More
The holiday season is in full swing at Ocean Casino Resort, and it's bringing festive accommodations, seasonal dishes, holiday fun and more to the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk.
Sponsored Content
Taiwan: Whatever Your Pleasure
Taiwan’s wealth of offerings ensures travelers find destinations, activities and amenities to suit all interests.
Airlines
Nov 5, 2026JetBlue Launches New Service to Colombia
Last month, JetBlue launched daily, non-stop service between Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Cali, Colombia (CLO), as well as new daily, non-stop service between Fort Lauderdale and Barranquilla, Colombia (BAQ). The two new services build upon the airline’s pre-existing service to Cartagena (CTG) and Medellín (MDE).
ShareThis