Capturing all that’s good about the Loire Valley, the city of Tours is popular both as a stop on a tour of the Indre-et-Loire département and as a destination for a relaxing holiday. Whether you come to sample the fine wines and culture or enjoy fine scenery and outdoor pursuits, this is a vacation destination with universal appeal.

Museums with themes such as local and natural history and art cater to the needs of culture seekers, while the many wineries in the Touraine region present those with avid interests in fine vintages with endless opportunities to indulge their passions.

Sightseers will enjoy the extensive selection of castles, churches and other fascinating old buildings that offer visual testament of the city’s eventful history. The old town district is as charming and alluring as it is historically interesting and is capable of capturing the essence of Tours of yesteryear like nowhere else in the city.

Dining and shopping opportunities are plentiful, the former offering especially pleasing experiences for visitors who appreciate fine cuisine. Locally made wine flows freely in most dining establishments and is the perfect accompaniment to the tasty dishes typical of the Loire Valley.

The city receives its fair share of visitors, especially in the summer months, when days are long and warm. To cater to its holidaymaking population, Tours offers a good selection of accommodation options, including reputable names such as Best Western and Holiday Inn as well as a large selection of smaller, independent establishments.

Tours is easily reached, with UK visitors able to fly direct from London to the city’s own international airport. Visitors from some other parts of Europe can also benefit from direct flights to this airport, while others are obliged to fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport then transfer by road or rail to Tours. By rail from Paris, the connection can be made by TGV high-speed service in just 1 hour, 30 minutes.

The summer season, lasting from May to September, brings the hottest weather in Tours, although things never get too steamy. In July and August, daily highs can reach the low 20s (°C) and days are mostly pleasantly warm. Winter gets cold and average temperatures hover around 5°C, but only occasionally fall below 0°C.

Rain falls heaviest in the late autumn and winter months, with November seeing the heaviest downpours and things remaining wet until February. Rainfall during this period is often followed immediately by bright spells with sunshine and blue skies, so provided you pack an umbrella or waterproof jacket, it’s feasible to visit the city at this time.