Expert-Guided Vancouver Tours

Expert-Guided Vancouver Tours

Vancouver cultural experience tours

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or someone who simply wants to soak up the natural beauty, there's a tour just for you. Learn more about Expert-Guided Vancouver Tours Here Once you've picked a date, you'll be prompted to fill in some personal details and select any add-ons, enhancing your experience further.

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Diving into the world of exclusive access perks, you'll discover unique opportunities that enhance your sightseeing journey in Vancouver. After exploring Stanley Park's natural wonders, it's time to discover the urban charm of Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood.
Your tour wouldn't be complete without a visit to Gastown, the city's historic heart. Lean more about Sightseeing Tour Vancouver here. Book your tour with us today!

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While Star Sightseeing will do their best to accommodate your first choice, flexibility may be necessary during peak seasons.
Having prioritized your comfort and safety, let's explore how you can secure your spot on this unforgettable sightseeing tour. You're not just another tourist when you embark on one of these tours; you're an explorer diving into experiences tailor-made for you. It's not just about the natural beauty; Stanley Park is steeped in history and culture, with totem poles that whisper stories of the land's indigenous peoples.
Foodies, meanwhile, can revel in a culinary journey through the city's diverse neighborhoods, tasting everything from freshly caught seafood to authentic Asian cuisines. Star Sightseeing's expert guides don't just show you around; they immerse you in experiences that connect you personally with the local culture. Embarking on a personalized journey through Vancouver allows you to immerse yourself in experiences that resonate deeply with your own interests and curiosities.

From this vantage point, the city sprawls below you, a stunning contrast to the serene wilderness that surrounds it. Vancouver VIP tours With these exclusive access perks, you're not just visiting Vancouver; you're immersing yourself in its lifestyle, creating unforgettable memories that ordinary tours can't match. Come summer, the city's outdoor spirit comes alive.

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Plus, we offer discounts on group bookings, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. It's smart to book as early as possible, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you snag your preferred slot.

The guides are more than just knowledgeable; they're passionate storytellers, bringing Vancouver's sights and history to life in a way that resonates and entertains.

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With us, you'll enjoy exclusive access to some of the city's most coveted attractions, bypassing the usual crowds.

You'll find a range of packages tailored to different interests, whether you're keen on exploring Vancouver's vibrant art scene or immersing yourself in its natural beauty. Its Colosseum-inspired design stands as a testament to the city's commitment to blending functionality with aesthetic beauty.

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Vancouver Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

Indigenous settlement of Vancouver began more than 10,000 years ago and included the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh (Burrard) peoples. The beginnings of the modern city, which was originally named Gastown, grew around the site of a makeshift tavern on the western edges of Hastings Mill that was built on July 1, 1867, and owned by proprietor Gassy Jack. The Gastown steam clock marks the original site. Gastown then formally registered as a townsite dubbed Granville, Burrard Inlet. The city was renamed "Vancouver" in 1886 through a deal with the Canadian Pacific Railway. The Canadian Pacific transcontinental railway was extended to the city by 1887. The city's large natural seaport on the Pacific Ocean became a vital link in the trade between Asia-Pacific, East Asia, Europe, and Eastern Canada.

Citations and other links

Unique and Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

You'll taste local delicacies and marvel at handcrafted goods, immersing yourself in the creative spirit of Vancouver. You'll need to provide some basic information, such as your name, contact details, and the number of participants.
It's not just about seeing the sights; it's about connecting with them in a unique and personal way.
So, let's dive in and experience the heartbeat of this fascinating district together. Gastown sightseeing tours Read more about Expert-Guided Vancouver Tours Here
They'll share their passion for food and perhaps even a secret or two about their signature dishes.

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Custom Sightseeing Packages for Visitors

Custom Sightseeing Packages for Visitors

Whether it's a refreshing beverage to welcome you aboard or the free Wi-Fi keeping you connected, they've thought of everything. Stay tuned to uncover how this exclusive tour could redefine your travel expectations. Kitsilano Beach offers a blend of relaxation and recreation that's hard to beat, making it a must-visit on your luxury tour of Vancouver's iconic landmarks.

Each landmark tells a story, promising you unforgettable experiences as you explore Vancouver's remarkable sights.

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Isn't it interesting how you've been yearning for a unique travel experience, and just like that, Star Sightseeing announces its exclusive tour of Vancouver?

You'll also notice a recurring mention of the tour's organization and smooth operation. Vancouver cultural experience tours 'Everything was so well organized, from start to finish. You'll participate in local traditions, from First Nations' ceremonies to contemporary Canadian art workshops, giving you a hands-on approach to understanding the city's heritage and current cultural dynamics.

You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for Vancouver's culinary landscape and stories to share about the people behind the plates. You'll see modern architectural marvels alongside historic sites, understanding the blend of tradition and innovation that defines Vancouver.

Wildlife Tours in Vancouver

It's a view that's not just seen but experienced. Instead, they specialize in creating personalized itineraries that cater to your interests, whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie. Understanding that every traveler is unique, our tours are designed to be fully customizable, ensuring your Vancouver adventure perfectly aligns with your personal interests and desires. This isn't just a tour; it's a feast for the senses.

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    Even in winter, the adventure doesn't stop. Or, perhaps you'd prefer a day filled with gallery visits, boutique shopping, and a leisurely stroll through the city's vibrant neighborhoods. Vancouver winter sightseeing In just 40 seconds, you'll reach the observation deck, where the city unfolds below you.

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    This is the time to hike through vibrant forests or enjoy the crisp air at a cozy café. Moreover, the recent addition of the Sustainability Exhibit showcases green technologies and sustainable solutions to everyday problems.

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    Or, ascend the peaks of the nearby mountains in a helicopter, landing in secluded spots for a picnic with a view.

    It's a place where every visit enriches your understanding and appreciation of Vancouver's diverse community. In that case, a personalized kayaking journey along the serene waters, with the city skyline in the backdrop, awaits you. You're an explorer discovering what makes this city truly magical.

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    Moreover, the convenience factor is unparalleled. Don't miss out on the culinary secrets either. You'll savor dishes that showcase the city's multicultural heritage, from authentic Asian fusion to fresh West Coast seafood. Vancouver sightseeing deals You're encouraged to communicate your preferences, ensuring that your Vancouver journey isn't just a tour, but a personal story waiting to unfold.

    The air's fresh, the surroundings are quiet except for the natural sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves, making it a perfect spot for some introspection or a peaceful walk. You'll find yourself wandering through the hallowed halls of the Vancouver Art Gallery, where the works of both Canadian and Indigenous artists come alive. Here, you're not just a spectator but a part of the landscape, enveloped by the serene beauty of British Columbia.

    We've partnered with local event organizers to offer you exclusive access to some of the season's hottest tickets, along with a guided tour of Vancouver's bustling streets and hidden gems. Customizable sightseeing tours in Vancouver offer a variety of unique features that cater specifically to your interests, ensuring each trip is as memorable as it's personal. These tours take you beyond the surface.

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    You'll also receive a personalized itinerary planning service. The attention to detail and the personal touches made it truly memorable.' This sentiment is echoed across numerous testimonials, indicating the tour's ability to connect with visitors on a personal level. From personalized itineraries that cater to your unique interests to luxurious transport options ensuring you travel in style, every detail is meticulously planned to enchant the most discerning traveler.

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    Here, chefs showcase the finest ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Beyond the rush of adrenaline-fueled activities, Vancouver unveils its seasonal wonders, offering a different kind of enchantment throughout the year. Next, check the availability calendar. First up, you'll find the majestic Stanley Park, not just a park but a green oasis with its stunning Seawall offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.
    You'll wander through towering forests, marvel at the expansive seawall, and stumble upon hidden beaches that offer tranquility amidst the city's hustle. In spring, you're greeted with a vibrant display of cherry blossoms, painting the city in shades of pink and white. Beyond uncovering hidden gems, these tours also offer deep dives into Vancouver's rich cultural heritage, letting you connect with the city's soul in a way you've never imagined.
    Don't forget about Sam, the foodie of the group. Star Sightseeing's new VIP tour services promise to elevate your visit to this vibrant city, offering an exclusive glimpse into its hidden gems and iconic landmarks through a lens of unparalleled comfort and elegance. Here, you'll encounter a perfect harmony of architecture, nature, and water, meticulously designed to reflect Taoist principles of balance and serenity.
    Star Sightseeing's new premium packages are designed to showcase these natural wonders in all their glory, ensuring you don't miss a thing. You'll taste local flavors, hear stories from the people who call this city home, and see Vancouver through a lens that most visitors never do. Your job is simply to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of Vancouver, experiencing it through a lens that's uniquely yours.

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    Early tour bus in Salt Lake City, 1909
    A colourful tour bus at Kuranda, Queensland, Australia
    Tourists taking photos from a ParisCityVision open-topped tour bus in Paris.
    Salvador Bahia Bus in Santo Antonio da Barra Lighthouse, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
    The Needles "Breezer", Isle of Wight, England

    A tour bus service is an escorted tour (sometimes a package holiday) or bus service that takes visitors sightseeing, with routes around tourist attractions.

    Information

    [edit]

    Double-decker buses and open top buses are commonly used, for providing a good view. Large coaches are used internationally by tour operators, intercity bus lines and charters, for short and long distance destinations. These buses are larger than regular transit buses, with 2 to 4 axles (6 to 10 wheels).

    The history of tour buses in North America began in the early 20th century, when trucks were converted to provide a means for sightseeing within large American cities.[1] Gray Line, the largest sightseeing operators, began operations in 1910.[2] Sightseeing was likely a side business for many intercity bus operators because the same types of buses were used (this remains true even today). World War II saw the industry decline, but it slowly re-emerged as an alternative to driving.[1]

    Many musicians, entertainers, dancing crews and bands travel in sleeper buses, commonly referred to as "tour buses". While most if not all of the buses and coaches listed above are for commercial applications, there are many coaches manufactured for personal use as motorhomes. These bus based motorhomes are considered the top end of the RV market.

    Common features

    [edit]
    • Padded fabric or leather front-facing seats, often reclining.
    • Foot and arm rests.
    • TV monitors connected to DVD player or VCR to provide entertainment or possibly analog TV or DTV for local news or programs (possibly in seats with viewer choosing what station).
    • Basic lavatory – riders may be discouraged from using it except in an emergency,[3][failed verification] but some newer buses feature full service lavatories[4]
    • Cool water dispenser, refrigerator, hot water urn.
    • Wheelchair lift or ramp and "kneeling suspension" for easier access (especially for the elderly and infirm).
    • Tinted windows (and/or curtains or blinds).
    • Luggage compartment (or bins) below in the underbelly of the bus, with overhead hand-luggage racks.

    Tour coach manufacturers

    [edit]

    See also

    [edit]

    References

    [edit]
    1. ^ a b "Driven John Mack Kept on Truckin', Helping Build Modern America". Investors.com. Archived from the original on January 11, 2013. Retrieved March 28, 2011.
    2. ^ Risko, Karin (2018). A History Lover's Guide to Detroit. Arcadia Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4671-3567-2.
    3. ^ "Bus Toilets / Toilets of the World". toilet-guru.com. Retrieved May 22, 2011.
    4. ^ "New Prevost features to be showc". Prevost-stuff.com. December 22, 2006. Retrieved March 28, 2011.

     

     

    Tours is located in Centre-Val de Loire
    Tours
    Tours
     
    Tours
    Medieval buildings on Place Plumereau
    Pont Wilson over the Loire
    Prébendes d'Oé garden
    Flag of Tours
    Coat of arms of Tours
    Location of Tours
    Map
    Tours is located in France
    Tours
    Tours
     

    Coordinates: 47°23′37″N 0°41′21″E / 47.393611°N 0.689167°E / 47.393611; 0.689167CountryFranceRegionCentre-Val de LoireDepartmentIndre-et-LoireArrondissementToursCantonTours-1
    Tours-2
    Tours-3
    Tours-4
    IntercommunalityTours Métropole Val de LoireGovernment

     

     • Mayor (2020–2026) Emmanuel Denis[1] (The Greens)

    Area
    1

    34.7 km2 (13.4 sq mi) • Urban

     (2018)

    684.9 km2 (264.4 sq mi) • Metro

     (2018)

    3,631.6 km2 (1,402.2 sq mi)Population

     (2022)[2]

    138,668 • Rank26th in France • Density4,000/km2 (10,000/sq mi) • Urban

     (2018)

    359,992 • Urban density530/km2 (1,400/sq mi) • Metro

     (2018)

    516,973 • Metro density140/km2 (370/sq mi)Demonym(s)Tourangeau (masculine)
    Tourangelle (feminine)Time zoneUTC+01:00 (CET) • Summer (DST)UTC+02:00 (CEST)INSEE/Postal code

    37261 /37000, 37100, 37200

    Elevation44–119 m (144–390 ft)1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

    Tours (/tʊər/ TOOR; French: [tuʁ] ⓘ) is the largest city in the region of Centre-Val de Loire, France. It is the prefecture of the department of Indre-et-Loire. The commune of Tours had 136,463 inhabitants as of 2018 while the population of the whole metropolitan area was 516,973.[3]

    Tours sits on the lower reaches of the Loire, between Orléans and the Atlantic coast. Formerly named Caesarodunum by its founder, Roman Emperor Augustus, it possesses one of the largest amphitheaters of the Roman Empire, the Tours Amphitheatre. Known for the Battle of Tours in 732 AD, it is a National Sanctuary with connections to the Merovingians and the Carolingians, with the Capetians making the kingdom's currency the Livre tournois. Saint Martin and Gregory of Tours were from Tours. Tours was once part of Touraine, a former province of France. Tours was the first city of the silk industry. It was taken by Louis XI, as the royal capital under the Valois Kings with its Loire castles and city of art with the School of Tours. The prefecture was partially destroyed during the French Wars of Religion in the late 16th century and again during the Second World War in June 1940.

    The White and Blue city keeps a historical center registered in the UNESCO, and is home to the Vieux-Tours, a patrimonial site. The garden city has a green heritage and an urban landscape strongly influenced by its natural space. The historic city that is nicknamed "Le Petit Paris" and its region by its history and culture has always been a land of birth or host to many personalities, international sporting events, and is a university city with more than 30,000 students in 2019. Tours is a popular culinary city with specialties such as: rillettes, rillons, Touraine vineyards, AOC Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine cheeses and nougats. The city is also the end-point of the annual Paris–Tours cycle race.

    Etymology

    [edit]

    A popular folk etymology of the word "Tours" is that it comes from Turonus, the nephew of Brutus. Turonus died in a war between Corineus and the king of Aquitaine, Goffarius Pictus, provoked by Corineus hunting in the king's forests without permission. It is said that Turonus was buried in Tours and the city is founded around his grave.[4]

    History

    [edit]

    In Gallic times, Tours was an important crossing point over the Loire. It became part of the Roman Empire during the 1st century AD, and the city was named Caesarodunum ("hill of Caesar"). The name evolved in the 4th century when the original Gallic name, Turones, became Civitas Turonum and then Tours. It was at this time that the Tours Amphitheatre was built.

    Tours became a metropolis in the Roman province of Lugdunum towards 380–388 AD, dominating Maine, Brittany, and the Loire Valley. One important figure in the city was Saint Martin of Tours, a bishop who shared his coat with a naked beggar in Amiens. The importance of Martin in the medieval Christian West made Tours, and its position on the route of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, a major centre during the Middle Ages.

    Middle Ages

    [edit]

    In the 6th century, Gregory of Tours, author of the Ten Books of History, restored a cathedral destroyed by a fire in 561. Saint Martin's monastery benefited from its inception, at the very start of the 6th century from patronage and support from the Frankish king, Clovis I, which increased considerably the influence of the saint, the abbey and the city in Gaul. In the 9th century, Tours was at the heart of the Carolingian Renaissance, in particular because of Alcuin, of York in Northumbria, a renowned book collector and an abbot of Marmoutier Abbey.

    In 732, Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi and an army of Muslim horsemen from Al-Andalus advanced 500 kilometres (300 miles) deep into France, and were stopped at Moussais-la-Bataille[5] (between Châtellerault and Poitiers) by Charles Martel and his infantry. This ignited the Battle of Tours. The Muslim army was defeated, preventing an Islamic conquest of France.

    In 845, Tours repelled the first attack of the Viking chief Haesten. In 850, the Vikings settled at the mouths of the Seine and the Loire. Still led by Haesten, they went up the Loire again in 852 and sacked Angers, Tours and Marmoutier Abbey.

    During the Middle Ages, Tours consisted of two juxtaposed and competing centres. The "City" in the east, successor of the late Roman 'castrum', was composed of the cathedral and palace of the archbishops as well as the castle of Tours. The castle of Tours acted as a seat of the authority of the Counts of Tours (later Counts of Anjou) and the King of France. In the west, the "new city" structured around the Abbey of Saint Martin was freed from the control of the city during the 10th century (an enclosure was built towards 918) and became "Châteauneuf". This space, organized between Saint Martin and the Loire, became the economic centre of Tours. Between these two centres were Varennes, vineyards and fields, little occupied except for the Abbaye Saint-Julien established on the banks of the Loire. The two centres were linked during the 14th century.

    Place Plumereau, Medieval buildings

    Tours became the capital of the county of Tours or Touraine, a territory bitterly disputed between the counts of Blois and Anjou – the latter were victorious in the 11th century. It was the capital of France at the time of Louis XI, who had settled in the castle of Montils (today the castle of Plessis-les-Tours, at the junction of the Loire and the Indre rivers). Tours and Touraine remained a permanent residence of the kings and court until the 16th century. The Renaissance gave Tours and Touraine many private mansions and castles, joined to some extent under the generic name of the Châteaux of the Loire. It is also at the time of Louis XI that the silk industry was introduced – despite difficulties, the industry still survives to this day.

    16th–18th centuries

    [edit]

    Charles IX passed through the city at the time of his royal tour of France between 1564 and 1566, accompanied by the Court and various noblemen: his brother the Duke of Anjou, Henri de Navarre, the cardinals of Bourbon and Lorraine. At this time, the Catholics returned to power in Angers: the attendant assumed the right to nominate the aldermen. The Massacre of Saint-Barthelemy was not repeated at Tours. The Protestants were imprisoned by the aldermen – a measure which prevented their extermination. The permanent return of the Court to Paris and then Versailles marked the beginning of a slow but permanent decline. Guillaume the Metayer (1763–1798), known as Rochambeau, the well-known counter-revolutionary chief of Mayenne, was shot in Tours.

    19th to 20th centuries

    [edit]

    The arrival of the railway in the 19th century saved the city by making it an important nodal point. The main railway station is known as Tours-Saint-Pierre-des-Corps. At that time, Tours was expanding towards the south into a district known as the Prébendes. The importance of the city as a centre of communications contributed to its revival and, as the 20th century progressed, Tours became a dynamic conurbation, economically oriented towards the service sector.

    First World War

    [edit]
    Tours Cathedral: 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic west front with Renaissance pinnacles, completed 1547.

    The city was greatly affected by the First World War. A force of 25,000 American soldiers arrived in 1917, setting up textile factories for the manufacture of uniforms, repair shops for military equipment, munitions dumps, an army post office and an American military hospital at Augustins. Because of this, Tours became a garrison town with a resident general staff. The American presence is remembered today by the Woodrow Wilson Bridge over the Loire, which was officially opened in July 1918 and bears the name of the President of the United States from 1913 to 1921. Three American air force squadrons, including the 492nd, were based at the Parçay-Meslay airfield, their personnel playing an active part in the life of the city. Americans paraded at funerals and award ceremonies for the Croix de Guerre. They also took part in festivals and their YMCA organised shows for the troops. Some men married women from Tours.

    Inter-war years

    [edit]

    In 1920, the city hosted the Congress of Tours, which saw the creation of the French Communist Party. One future consequence of that congress was the presence of Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnamese nationalist, who became one of the first members of the party.

    Second World War

    [edit]

    Tours was also marked by the Second World War, as the city suffered massive destruction in 1940. For four years it was a city of military camps and fortifications. From 10 to 13 June 1940, Tours was the temporary seat of the French government before its move to Bordeaux.

    German incendiary bombs caused a huge fire, which blazed out of control from 20 to 22 June and destroyed part of the city centre. Some architectural masterpieces of the 16th and 17th centuries were lost, as was the monumental entry to the city. The Wilson Bridge, which carried a water main that supplied the city, was dynamited to slow the progress of the German advance. With the water main severed, nobody could extinguish the inferno. That made inhabitants have no option but to flee to safety. More heavy air raids by Allied forces devastated the area around the railway station in 1944, causing several hundred deaths.

    Post-war developments

    [edit]

    A plan for the rebuilding of the central area drawn up by the local architect Camille Lefèvre had been adopted even before the end of the war. The plan was for 20 small quadrangular blocks of housing to be arranged around the main road (la rue Nationale), which was widened. This regular layout attempted to echo but simplify the 18th-century architecture. Pierre Patout succeeded Lefèvre as the architect in charge of rebuilding in 1945. At one time, there was talk of demolishing the southern side of the rue Nationale to make it in keeping with the new development.

    The recent history of Tours is marked by the personality of Jean Royer, who was mayor for 36 years and helped save the old town from demolition by establishing one of the first Conservation Areas. This example of conservation policy would later inspire the Malraux Law for the safeguarding of historic city centres. In the 1970s, Jean Royer also extended the city to the south by diverting the course of the Cher River to create the districts of Rives du Cher and des Fontaines. At the time, it was one of the largest urban developments in Europe. In 1970, the François Rabelais University was founded and centred on the bank of the Loire in the downtown area, not, as was the current practice, in a campus in the suburbs. The latter solution was also chosen by the twin university of Orleans. Royer's long term as mayor was, however, not without controversy, as is exemplified by the construction of the practical but aesthetically unattractive motorway, which runs along the bed of a former canal just 1,500 metres (4,900 feet) from the cathedral. Another bone of contention was the original Vinci Congress Centre by Jean Nouvel. The project incurred debts although it at least made Tours one of France's principal conference centres.

    Jean Germain, a member of the Socialist Party, became mayor in 1995 and made debt reduction his priority. Ten years later, his economic management was regarded as much wiser than that of his predecessor because of the financial stability of the city returning. However, his achievements were criticised by the municipal opposition for a lack of ambition. There were no large building projects instituted under his two terms. That position is disputed by those in power, who affirm their policy of concentrating on the quality of life, as evidenced by urban restoration, the development of public transport and cultural activities.

    Climate

    [edit]

    Tours has an oceanic climate that is very mild for such a northern latitude. Summers are influenced by its inland position, resulting in frequent days of 25 °C (77 °F) or warmer, whereas winters are kept mild by Atlantic air masses. The entire valley between Orlans and Angers is famous for the luminosity of its air and for its fabulous châteaux, most of them Renaissance (over 600 between Orlans and Angers).

    Climate data for Tours (1991–2020 averages)
    Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
    Record high °C (°F) 16.9
    (62.4)
    22.1
    (71.8)
    25.3
    (77.5)
    29.2
    (84.6)
    31.8
    (89.2)
    39.1
    (102.4)
    40.8
    (105.4)
    39.8
    (103.6)
    35.5
    (95.9)
    31.1
    (88.0)
    22.3
    (72.1)
    18.5
    (65.3)
    40.8
    (105.4)
    Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7.7
    (45.9)
    9.0
    (48.2)
    12.9
    (55.2)
    16.0
    (60.8)
    19.6
    (67.3)
    23.4
    (74.1)
    25.9
    (78.6)
    26.0
    (78.8)
    22.1
    (71.8)
    17.0
    (62.6)
    11.4
    (52.5)
    8.1
    (46.6)
    16.6
    (61.9)
    Daily mean °C (°F) 5.1
    (41.2)
    5.6
    (42.1)
    8.6
    (47.5)
    11.0
    (51.8)
    14.5
    (58.1)
    18.0
    (64.4)
    20.2
    (68.4)
    20.2
    (68.4)
    16.8
    (62.2)
    13.0
    (55.4)
    8.3
    (46.9)
    5.5
    (41.9)
    12.2
    (54.0)
    Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 2.5
    (36.5)
    2.3
    (36.1)
    4.3
    (39.7)
    6.0
    (42.8)
    9.4
    (48.9)
    12.6
    (54.7)
    14.4
    (57.9)
    14.3
    (57.7)
    11.4
    (52.5)
    9.0
    (48.2)
    5.3
    (41.5)
    2.9
    (37.2)
    7.9
    (46.2)
    Record low °C (°F) −17.4
    (0.7)
    −14.2
    (6.4)
    −10.3
    (13.5)
    −3.4
    (25.9)
    −0.6
    (30.9)
    2.6
    (36.7)
    4.3
    (39.7)
    4.8
    (40.6)
    0.9
    (33.6)
    −2.3
    (27.9)
    −7.1
    (19.2)
    −18.5
    (−1.3)
    −18.5
    (−1.3)
    Average precipitation mm (inches) 63.0
    (2.48)
    52.4
    (2.06)
    48.7
    (1.92)
    53.0
    (2.09)
    57.7
    (2.27)
    53.2
    (2.09)
    46.6
    (1.83)
    44.0
    (1.73)
    51.8
    (2.04)
    66.0
    (2.60)
    69.3
    (2.73)
    72.1
    (2.84)
    677.8
    (26.69)
    Average precipitation days 11.0 9.8 9.3 8.9 9.0 7.6 6.7 6.6 7.5 9.8 11.4 11.5 109.0
    Average snowy days 2.4 2.9 1.8 0.7 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 1.7 10.6
    Average relative humidity (%) 87 84 79 74 77 75 72 73 77 84 87 89 79.8
    Mean monthly sunshine hours 68.4 95.2 148.8 187.3 214.2 228.5 247.1 237.7 191.3 122.9 78.9 64.6 1,884.8
    Source 1: Météo France[6][7]
    Source 2: Infoclimat.fr (humidity and snowy days, 1961–1990)[8]

    Sights

    [edit]
    Hôtel de Ville, Place Jean Jaurès
    St Gatien Cathedral, from Rue Lavoisier, just north of the Rue Colbert intersection.
    Pont Wilson

    Cathedral

    [edit]

    The Cathedral of Tours, dedicated to Saint Gatien, its canonized first bishop, was begun about 1170 to replace the cathedral that was burnt out in 1166 during the dispute between Louis VII of France and Henry II of England. The lowermost stages of the western towers belong to the 12th century, but the rest of the west end is in the profusely detailed 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic, which were completed just as the Renaissance was affecting the patrons who planned the châteaux of Touraine. The towers were being constructed at the same time as, for example, the Château de Chenonceau.

    When the 15th-century illuminator Jean Fouquet was set the task of illuminating Josephus's Jewish Antiquities, his depiction of Solomon's Temple was modelled on the nearly complete cathedral of Tours. The atmosphere of the Gothic cathedral close permeates Honoré de Balzac's dark short novel of jealousy and provincial intrigues, Le Curé de Tours (The Curate of Tours) and his medieval story Maître Cornélius opens in the cathedral itself.

    Other points of interest

    [edit]

    Language

    [edit]

    Before the French Revolution, the inhabitants of Tours (Les Tourangeaux) were known for speaking the "purest" form of French in the entire country.[9] The pronunciation of Touraine was traditionally regarded as the most standard pronunciation of the French language, until the 19th century when the standard pronunciation of French shifted to that of the Parisian bourgeoisie.[10] That is explained by the fact that the court of France lived in Touraine between 1430 and 1530. French, the language of the court, had become the official language of the entire kingdom.

    A Council of Tours in 813 decided that priests should preach sermons in different languages because the common people could no longer understand classical Latin. This was the first official recognition of an early French language distinct from Latin, and can be considered as the birth of French.

    The Ordinance of Montils-lès-Tours, promulgated by Charles VII in 1454, made it mandatory to write laws and oral customs in the native language of the area.

    An ordinance of Charles VIII (born in Amboise, near Tours) in 1490 and one of Louis XII (born in Blois, near Tours) in 1510 broaden the scope of the ordinance of Charles VII.

    Finally, the Ordinance of Villers-Cotterêts, signed into law by Francis I in 1539, called for the use of French in all legal acts, notarized contracts and official legislation to avoid any linguistic confusion.

    Gregory of Tours wrote in the 6th century that some people in the area could still speak Gaulish.

    City

    [edit]
    Pont Wilson crosses the river Loire at the old civic core

    The city has a population of 140,000 and is called "Le Jardin de la France" ("The Garden of France"). There are several parks located within the city. Tours is located between two rivers, the Loire to the north and the Cher to the south. The buildings of Tours are white with blue slate (called Ardoise) roofs; this style is common in the north of France, while most buildings in the south of France have terracotta roofs.

    Tours is famous for its original medieval district, called le Vieux Tours. Unique to the Old City are its preserved half-timbered buildings and la Place Plumereau, a square with busy pubs and restaurants, whose open-air tables fill the centre of the square. The Boulevard Beranger crosses the Rue Nationale at the Place Jean-Jaures and is the location of weekly markets and fairs.

    Tours is famous for its many bridges crossing the river Loire. One of them, Wilson Bridge, collapsed in 1978 but was rebuilt.

    In the garden of the ancient Palais des Archevêques (now Musée des Beaux-Arts) is a huge cedar tree said to have been planted by Napoleon.[11] The garden also has a stuffed elephant named Fritz. He escaped from the Barnum and Bailey circus during their stay in Tours in 1902. He went mad and had to be shot down, but the city paid to honor him, and he was taxidermied as a result.

    Tours is home to University of Tours (formerly known as University François Rabelais of Tours), the site of one of the most important choral competitions, called Florilège Vocal de Tours International Choir Competition, and is a member city of the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing.

    Population

    [edit]

    The population data in the table and graph below refer to the commune of Tours proper, in its geography at the given years. The commune of Tours absorbed the former commune of Saint-Étienne in 1845 and Sainte-Radegonde-en-Touraine and Saint-Symphorien in 1964.[12]

    Historical population
    Year Pop. ±% p.a.
    1793 21,000 —    
    1800 20,240 −0.53%
    1806 21,703 +1.17%
    1821 21,928 +0.07%
    1831 23,235 +0.58%
    1836 26,669 +2.80%
    1841 30,072 +2.43%
    1846 30,766 +0.46%
    1851 33,530 +1.74%
    1856 38,055 +2.56%
    1861 41,061 +1.53%
    1866 42,450 +0.67%
    1872 43,368 +0.36%
    1876 48,325 +2.74%
    1881 52,209 +1.56%
    1886 59,585 +2.68%
    1891 60,335 +0.25%
    1896 63,267 +0.95%
    Year Pop. ±% p.a.
    1901 64,695 +0.45%
    1906 67,601 +0.88%
    1911 73,398 +1.66%
    1921 75,096 +0.23%
    1926 77,192 +0.55%
    1931 78,585 +0.36%
    1936 83,753 +1.28%
    1946 80,044 −0.45%
    1954 83,618 +0.55%
    1962 92,944 +1.33%
    1968 128,120 +5.50%
    1975 140,686 +1.35%
    1982 132,209 −0.88%
    1990 129,509 −0.26%
    1999 132,820 +0.28%
    2007 136,578 +0.35%
    2012 134,978 −0.24%
    2017 135,787 +0.12%
     
    Source: EHESS[12] and INSEE (1968–2017)[13]

    Transportation

    [edit]
    Tram model, design by the French agency RCP Design Global

    Today, with extensive rail (including TGV) and autoroute connections linking to the rest of the country, Tours is a jumping-off point for tourist visits to the Loire Valley and the royal châteaux.

    Tours is on one of the main lines of the TGV. It is possible to travel to the west coast of Bordeaux in an hour and forty minutes. From there, the line follows the Mediterranean coast via Avignon, and then to Spain and Barcelona. There are also lines to Lyon, Strasbourg and Lille. It takes less than one hour by train to get from Tours to Paris by TGV and one and a half hours to get to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Tours has two main stations: Gare de Tours, the central station, and Gare de Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, used by trains that do not terminate in Tours.

    Tours Loire Valley Airport connects the Loire Valley to European cities.

    Historically, Tours was served by trams and trolleybuses, the trolleybus system lasting from 1949 to 1968. Tram service returned to the city in 2013, when a new tram system began operation. Twenty-one Alstom Citadis trams were ordered.[14]

    There is also a bus service, the main central stop being Jean Jaurès, next to the Hôtel de Ville, and rue Nationale, the high street of Tours. The tram and bus networks are operated by Fil Bleu and they share a ticketing system. A second tram line is scheduled for 2025.[15]

    Sport

    [edit]

    The city's football team, Tours FC, currently play in Championnat National 3, the fifth level of French football. They also have a second team, CCSP Tours. CCSP's home stadium is the Stade des Tourettes and they play in the Division d'Honneur Regionale de Centre, the seventh tier of the French football league system.[citation needed]

    Tours has served as the finish location for Paris–Tours, a one-day road cycling classic race held almost every October since 1896.[16]

    Tours also has a volleyball club named the Tours VB.

    Catholics from Tours

    [edit]
    Venerable Leo Dupont, Holy Man of Tours

    Tours is a special place for Catholics who follow the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus and the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. In 1843, Sister Marie of St Peter of Tours reported a vision which started the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus, in reparation for the many insults Christ suffered in His Passion. The Golden Arrow Prayer was first made public by her.

    The Venerable Leo Dupont also known as The Holy Man of Tours lived in Tours at about the same time. In 1849 he started the nightly adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which spread throughout France. Upon hearing of Sister Marie of St Peter's reported visions, he started to burn a vigil lamp continuously before a picture of the Holy Face of Jesus. The devotion was eventually approved by Pope Pius XII in 1958 and he formally declared the Feast of the Holy Face of Jesus as Shrove Tuesday (the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday) for all Roman Catholics.[17] The Oratory of the Holy Face on Rue St. Etienne in Tours receives many pilgrims every year.

    Tours was the site of the episcopal activity of St. Martin of Tours and has further Christian connotations in that the pivotal Battle of Tours in 732 is often considered the first decisive victory over the invading Islamic forces, turning the tide against them. The battle also helped lay the foundations of the Carolingian Empire.[18]

    Notable people

    [edit]
    Louise de la Vallière, 17th.C
    General Régis de Trobriand, 1865

    Public service

    [edit]

    Arts

    [edit]
    Jean Fouquet self portrait, ca.1450
    Philippe Néricault Destouches, 1741
    statue of Honoré de Balzac

    Science and business

    [edit]
    Gabriel Lamé

    Sport

    [edit]
    Pascal Hervé, 2000

    Twin towns — sister cities

    [edit]

    Tours is twinned with:[28]

    [edit]

    See also

    [edit]

    References

    [edit]
    1. ^ "Répertoire national des élus: les maires" (in French). data.gouv.fr, Plateforme ouverte des données publiques françaises. 13 September 2022.
    2. ^ "Populations de référence 2022" (in French). The National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies. 19 December 2024.
    3. ^ "Comparateur de territoire". INSEE. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
    4. ^ Historia Brittonum 7, 10–11
    5. ^ The Andalusian History, from the Islamic conquest till the fall of Granada 92–897 A.H. (711–1492 C.E.), by Professor AbdurRahman Ali El-Hajji, a professor of the Islamic history at Baghdad University, published in Dar Al-Qalam, in Damascus, and in Beirut. "Second Edition". p. 194
    6. ^ "Données climatiques de la station de Tours" (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
    7. ^ "TOURS (37)" (PDF). Fiche Climatologique: Statistiques 1991–2020 et records (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
    8. ^ "Normes et records 1961–1990: Tours – St Symphorien (37) – altitude 112m" (in French). Infoclimat. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
    9. ^ "Tours, France". Meet Minneapolis. 2012. Archived from the original on 22 July 2012. Retrieved 3 August 2012.
    10. ^ de Montvalon, Jean-Baptiste. "Philippe Boula de Mareüil : « Les accents participent à la richesse de notre langue". Le Monde (in French). Paris. Retrieved 19 July 2015.
    11. ^ "City summary: Tours". us.media.france.fr.
    12. ^ a b Des villages de Cassini aux communes d'aujourd'hui: Commune data sheet Tours, EHESS (in French).
    13. ^ Population en historique depuis 1968, INSEE
    14. ^ "Tours selects Citadis and APS". Railway Gazette International. London. 14 September 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2010.
    15. ^ "Tramway de Tours – Le Tram de Tours". letramdetours.net.
    16. ^ "City tourism: Tours". Paris–Tours. Amaury Sport Organisation. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
    17. ^ Dorothy Scallan. "The Holy Man of Tours." (1990) ISBN 0-89555-390-2
    18. ^ Davis, Paul K. (1999) "100 Decisive Battles From Ancient Times to the Present" ISBN 0-19-514366-3
    19. ^ "Berengarius" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 768–769.
    20. ^ "La Vallière, Louise Françoise de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 16 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 290–291.
    21. ^ "Viollet, Paul Marie" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 28 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 107.
    22. ^ "Foucquet, Jean" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 10 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 737.
    23. ^ Williamson, George Charles (1911). "Clouet, François" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 6 (11th ed.). pp. 559–560.
    24. ^ "Destouches, Philippe" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 104.
    25. ^ "Dutens, Louis" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 736.
    26. ^ "Bouilly, Jean Nicolas" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 4 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 318.
    27. ^ Saintsbury, George (1911). "Balzac, Honoré de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). pp. 298–301.
    28. ^ "Jumelages et partenariats". tours.fr (in French). Tours. Retrieved 16 November 2019.

    Further reading

    [edit]
    [edit]

     

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