Under $100: Tours, France

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.