Sightseeing Tour Victoria

Sightseeing Tour Victoria

Victoria private tours

After exploring the architectural wonders by day, Star Sightseeing's exclusive night tours offer a different perspective, illuminating the city's beauty under the stars. Romantic tours in Victoria Imagine winding through the backstreets, each turn revealing stories untold by guidebooks. Don't miss the chance to snap a picture with the iconic Totem Poles in Thunderbird Park.

Sightseeing Tour Victoria - Victoria sightseeing deals

  • Old Town Victoria tours
  • Victoria wildlife tours
  • Victoria sunset tours
  • Victoria eco tours
  • Best viewpoints in Victoria
  • Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  • Victoria pet-friendly sightseeing
  • Victoria boat tours
  • Victoria zipline tours
  • Family-friendly tours in Victoria
  • Victoria winter sightseeing
  • Victoria walking tours
  • Victoria Chinatown tours
  • Best tour operators in Victoria
  • Romantic tours in Victoria
  • Victoria urban exploration tours
Learn more about Sightseeing Tour Victoria here They know it. Get ready to see Sightseeing Tour Victoria in a light you've never imagined.
You'll explore vibrant neighborhoods where the real Sightseeing Tour Victoria thrives, meet locals who embody the city's spirit, and uncover secrets that even some residents haven't stumbled upon. Here, you can sip on award-winning wines, perfectly paired with artisanal cheeses, under the guidance of passionate vintners. Lean more about Sightseeing Tour Victoria with Star Sightseeing here. You won't just pass by; you'll delve into the stories behind the majestic Parliament Buildings, feeling the pulse of history beneath your feet. Signing up for their newsletter or following them on social media could snag you an exclusive deal, making your adventure even more rewarding.
Your journey kicks off in a state-of-the-art vehicle that's more than just transportation; it's your private haven on wheels. Victoria day trips You'll feel like royalty as you explore historic sites and enjoy gourmet meals at exclusive restaurants. Each stop includes tastings and meet-and-greets with the chefs and artisans behind the flavors. They tailor their narratives to your interests, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an art aficionado, making every tour feel personal and exclusive.
Having explored the rich tapestry of Sightseeing Tour Victoria's culinary scene, let's venture off the traditional tourist trails to uncover the city's hidden gems. Sightseeing Tour Victoria's charm is also in its details – the intricate facades of Chinatown, the oldest of its kind in Canada, and the innovative designs of the Dockside Green community reflect the city's commitment to sustainability. You'll leave with a profound understanding of how the city's past enriches its present, making your visit truly unforgettable. With carefully curated experiences designed for both visitors and locals, they're promising exclusivity, personalized services, and unique access to some of the most sought-after destinations in the area.

You'll get access to private gardens that bloom with a history not found in any guidebook, and behind-the-scenes tours of iconic landmarks where you'll learn secrets that even locals are unaware of. Sightseeing Tour Victoria's numerous cafes and restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to relax and refuel. You'll leave with stories of unique experiences and encounters that go beyond the surface of this beautiful city. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, you'll find moving around the city a breeze. Victoria paddleboarding tours

With Star Sightseeing, you're not just booking a tour; you're indulging in an experience where comfort meets style every mile of the way. With Star Sightseeing, you're not just visiting the Dandenong Ranges; you're experiencing them.

Sightseeing Tour Victoria - Victoria day trips

  1. Victoria sightseeing recommendations
  2. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  3. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  4. Victoria festival tours
  5. Victoria island tours
  6. Victoria suburbs sightseeing
  7. Victoria helicopter tours
  8. Victoria wine tours
  9. Victoria scuba diving tours
  10. Victoria VIP tours
  11. Victoria guided tours
  12. Victoria city tours
  13. Victoria waterfront tours
  14. North Victoria sightseeing tours
  15. Victoria nature tours
  16. Victoria architecture tours
  17. Victoria local tour guides
  18. Victoria food tours
  19. Unique Victoria tours
It's an invitation to experience the city through the eyes of those who call it home, making your visit not just memorable but truly transformative.

Venturing further, you might find yourself on a coastal path, where the ocean breeze carries tales of the deep blue. This is your chance to immerse yourself in Sightseeing Tour Victoria's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. They're just a call or email away to help tailor your tour to perfection.

One traveler recounts the moment they stepped into the luxurious vehicle, feeling like royalty. Sightseeing Tour Victoria's calendar is packed with seasonal highlights and events that'll transform your visit into an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn to the historical landmarks, enchanted by the lush gardens, or eager to explore the vibrant art scene, there's a tour designed for you.

Victoria ferry and garden tour

Entity Name Description Source
Queen Victoria Queen Victoria was the queen of the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901, a period known as the Victorian era, marked by significant cultural and political changes. Source
Harbour Air Seaplanes Harbour Air Seaplanes is a Canadian airline providing seaplane services, mostly in British Columbia, offering scenic flights and transportation. Source
Butchart Gardens Butchart Gardens is a group of gardens located in Brentwood Bay, near Victoria, British Columbia, famous for its natural beauty and variety of plants. Source
Downtown Victoria Downtown Victoria is the urban core of Victoria, BC, offering cultural, historical, and commercial attractions in a vibrant coastal city. Source
Gray Line Worldwide Gray Line Worldwide is a global tour operator, offering sightseeing tours in many cities across the world, including bus and walking tours. Source
Chinatown Chinatown in Victoria, BC, is one of the oldest in North America and a cultural hub with historic sites, shops, and restaurants. Source
Victoria Harbour Victoria Harbour is a natural harbour located in the city of Victoria, BC, known for its picturesque waterfront and marine activities. Source
The Empress (hotel) The Empress is a historic luxury hotel located in Victoria, BC, known for its grand architecture and as a significant part of the city’s cultural landscape. Source
Water taxi A water taxi is a small boat used for short-distance transportation on water, commonly used in cities like Victoria for harbor transport. Source
Bus A bus is a large vehicle used for transporting passengers over long distances, commonly used for public transportation in urban areas. Source
Floatplane A floatplane is an aircraft designed to take off and land on water, often used for travel in regions with numerous lakes and rivers, like Victoria, BC. Source
Royal British Columbia Museum The Royal BC Museum in Victoria is a major cultural and natural history museum in British Columbia, known for its exhibitions on BC’s history and environment. Source
Wildlife Wildlife refers to non-domesticated animals and plants, which can be observed in their natural habitat in regions like Victoria, BC. Source
Greater Victoria Greater Victoria is a metropolitan area on Vancouver Island, including several municipalities and offering a mix of urban and natural landscapes. Source
Songhees The Songhees are an Indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest Coast, with historical ties to the Victoria area. Source

Victoria hop-on hop-off tours

Named for Queen Victoria, the city is one of the oldest in the Pacific Northwest, with British settlement beginning in 1843. The city has retained a large number of its historic buildings, in particular its two most famous landmarks, the Parliament Buildings (finished in 1897 and home of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia) and the Empress Hotel (opened in 1908). The city's Chinatown is the second oldest in North America, after San Francisco. The region's Coast Salish First Nations peoples established communities in the area long before European settlement, which had large populations at the time of European exploration.

Citations and other links

Sightseeing Tour Victoria’s Whale Watching Hotspots and Tours

Imagine coming face-to-face with majestic bald eagles soaring above or spotting a family of deer quietly grazing in the forest. This tour isn't just about seeing; it's about experiencing. Victoria luxury tours This means you're always equipped with the most current information, making your exploration of Sightseeing Tour Victoria hassle-free. From bustling markets filled with fresh, locally-sourced produce to cozy cafes where baristas know their patrons by name, you'll feel the genuine warmth and hospitality that's characteristic of this region. It's all about indulging in the moment, whether that's witnessing the majestic sunset at Dallas Road Waterfront, exploring the lush gardens of Butchart Gardens, or savoring exquisite local cuisine at a hidden gem recommended by your knowledgeable chauffeur.
The tour doesn't just show you places; it introduces you to people. You're an explorer, delving into the heart of Sightseeing Tour Victoria's charm. Star Sightseeing's customized tours ensure you experience these hidden gems of Sightseeing Tour Victoria, crafting memories that are uniquely yours. Don't forget to keep an eye out for special promotions.
It's not just a tour; it's a journey that connects you deeply with the spirit of the land and its ancestors. As you meander through the cobblestone streets, you're transported back in time, surrounded by the grandeur of Sightseeing Tour Victorian architecture. Victoria sightseeing deals Read more about Sightseeing Tour Victoria here After your ride, you'll explore the charming towns of Olinda and Sassafras, known for their boutique shops, artisan crafts, and cozy cafes. Moreover, these guides are more than just storytellers; they become your local friends in Sightseeing Tour Victoria.
These guides aren't just locals; they're enthusiasts, historians, and storytellers wrapped into one, ensuring you're not just seeing the sights but truly understanding them.

Sightseeing Tour Victoria - Victoria tour packages

  • Victoria Christmas market tours
  • Sightseeing Victoria
  • Victoria spring sightseeing
  • Victoria sightseeing bus
  • Victoria kayaking tours
  • Victoria heritage tours
  • Victoria bike tours
  • Victoria fishing tours
  • Victoria cherry blossom tours
  • Victoria travel tips
  • Victoria underground tours
  • Off-the-beaten-path Victoria tours
  • Victoria multi-day tours
  • Victoria art tours
  • Butchart Gardens sightseeing tours
  • Things to do in Victoria
Imagine having the flexibility to explore at your own pace, with exclusive access that isn't available to the general public, and experiences crafted to suit your every whim. This unique experience is a highlight of Star Sightseeing's guided tour packages, offering you a front-row seat to nature's enchanting performance. You'll find yourself wandering through gardens brimming with native flora, where the air is perfumed with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of wildlife fills the atmosphere.

Sightseeing Tour Victoria’s Whale Watching Hotspots and Tours
Sightseeing Tour Victoria's Best Coastal and Seaside Routes

Sightseeing Tour Victoria's Best Coastal and Seaside Routes

From the majestic Parliament Buildings to the picturesque Inner Harbour, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and lesser-known facts that bring these sites to life. Best tour operators in Victoria Now, you can choose from a wider range of themed tours, each designed to cater to different interests and tastes. Let's turn your visit into an exclusive, one-of-a-kind adventure. Your guide tailors the journey to your interests, whether that's historical architecture, culinary delights, or natural wonders.

In essence, these chauffeurs transform a simple sightseeing tour into a personalized journey, tailoring each excursion to your interests and ensuring that every moment in Sightseeing Tour Victoria is as enriching as it's effortless. It's not just about the well-trodden paths; it's about diving deep into the heart of the city and its surroundings. It's not just about observing; it's about connecting with the natural world in a way you've never done before.

These tours aren't just about seeing, they're about experiencing. You won't want to miss the chance to stroll through gardens awash with color or participate in community activities that bring locals and visitors together in admiration of nature's beauty. It's your adventure, your way.

You'll walk the same streets where gold-laden carts once rolled and visit the Sovereign Hill Outdoor Museum, a perfect recreation of a 19th-century gold mining town. Star Sightseeing ensures every detail is taken care of, from comfortable transportation to providing insightful commentary about the penguins and their conservation. Victoria cruise tours It's also wise to factor in travel time between locations.

Eco-Tours and Sustainable Sightseeing in Sightseeing Tour Victoria

No matter your choice, Star Sightseeing's got you covered for an unforgettable exploration of Sightseeing Tour Victoria. You'll leave with a heart full of memories and a renewed sense of togetherness, proving that Sightseeing Tour Victoria isn't just a destination-it's a journey back to each other. You're not just a passenger; you're a revered guest, treated to an experience that's meticulously crafted to surpass your expectations. It's an opportunity to create lasting memories while enjoying the luxury and comfort that Star Sightseeing is known for. Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you'll be exploring some of the most picturesque spots on foot.

The tours showcase the city's illuminated beauty, from the historical architecture to the serene parks, all under the stars. You'll start your day early, catching the golden sunrise that illuminates the surf against the backdrop of the Twelve Apostles – towering limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. They understand that each traveler is unique, with their own tastes, interests, and desires.

Sightseeing Tour Victoria - Victoria cruise tours

  1. Victoria food tours
  2. Unique Victoria tours
  3. Victoria adventure tours
  4. Victoria hiking tours
  5. Victoria night tours
  6. Victoria rainforest tours
  7. Victoria holiday lights tours
  8. Victoria photography tours
  9. Victoria brewery tours
  10. Inner Harbour sightseeing tours
  11. Victoria harbor tours
  12. Victoria sightseeing tickets
  13. Victoria tourist attractions
  14. Victoria cultural tours
  15. West Victoria sightseeing tours
  16. Victoria ferry tours
  17. Victoria festival experience tours
  18. Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  19. Victoria hot air balloon rides
  20. Victoria senior-friendly sightseeing
Star Sightseeing ensures that your entire itinerary is peppered with premium experiences. Victoria tour packages

Sightseeing Tour Victoria's dining scene is a mosaic of tastes, with farm-to-table restaurants, bustling seafood markets, and cozy cafés dotting the cityscape. Next, you'll experience the majestic Craigdarroch Castle, immersing yourself in the opulence and history of Sightseeing Tour Victoria's Sightseeing Tour Victorian era. They're not just any tour company; they specialize in crafting experiences that match your interests, pace, and style. Every hidden gem you'll encounter on this tour comes with its own unique cultural story, letting you delve deep into the rich tapestry of Sightseeing Tour Victoria's heritage.

This way, you can prioritize what you're most excited to see. Ready to turn your Sightseeing Tour Victoria dreams into reality? The tours don't just show you the sights; they plunge you into the heart of each festival, connecting you with the stories and people behind these celebrated events. From the moment you're picked up, you'll notice the difference.

Sightseeing Tour Victoria - Victoria tour packages

  • Victoria ghost tours
  • Victoria day trips
  • Victoria seaplane tours
  • Victoria luxury tours
  • Victoria history tours
  • Victoria snowboard tours
  • Victoria extreme sports tours
  • Victoria sightseeing itineraries
  • Victoria road trips
  • Victoria botanical garden tours
  • Victoria scenic drives
  • Victoria whale watching
  • Victoria coastline tours
  • Victoria sightseeing on a budget
  • Victoria cultural experience tours
  • Victoria snorkeling tours
  • Best places to visit in Victoria
  • Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing


Eco-Tours and Sustainable Sightseeing in Sightseeing Tour Victoria
Sightseeing Tour Victoria ghost tours at night
Sightseeing Tour Victoria ghost tours at night

You'll wander through historic districts, each telling tales of yesteryears' ambitions and hardships. After exploring the coastal and vineyard charms of the Mornington Peninsula, we'll guide you through the serene pathways of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The new sightseeing tour by Star Sightseeing not only takes you through the iconic landmarks that have defined the city's skyline but also whispers the tales of hidden gems quietly tucked away, waiting for the curious traveler to uncover them. This choice will shape your schedule, balancing between must-see attractions and those off-the-beaten-path gems that make your trip uniquely yours. These are the spots where the true essence of Sightseeing Tour Victoria comes alive, away from the crowded tourist sites. Victoria fall sightseeing

Next, select your preferred date. It's these experiences that will make your culinary adventure in Sightseeing Tour Victoria truly unforgettable. They'll discuss your preferences further, offer suggestions, and answer any questions you may have. Imagine sipping fine local wines at a vineyard that's off the radar for most, or enjoying a private viewing of a sought-after art collection.

You'll wander through enchanting gardens, hand in hand, under a canopy of stars, and dine at intimate restaurants with breathtaking views that seem painted just for you. It's a community-driven event that showcases the best of Sightseeing Tour Victoria's creative talents. You won't just be another tourist in a crowd; you'll feel like a local explorer, uncovering secrets of Sightseeing Tour Victoria's charming streets and stunning architecture. Star Sightseeing's journey next unveils Sightseeing Tour Victoria's cultural and historical treasures, offering you an intimate glimpse into the heart of the city's heritage.

You'll explore the legacy of the miners who flocked here from around the world, dreaming of striking it rich. Don't worry if you're feeling overwhelmed by the options; Star Sightseeing's customer service is top-notch. Imagine having the key to unlock experiences that aren't available to the general public. Star Sightseeing also knows the best family-friendly eateries, where everyone can refuel with delicious, kid-approved meals. Victoria seaplane tours

Sightseeing Tour Victoria private tour experiences

We understand that everyone's idea of a perfect trip is different, and that's why we go the extra mile to ensure your tour is exactly what you've dreamed of. Moreover, their expertise isn't just about locations. These moments aren't just scenic; they're transformative, offering a sense of serenity and awe that's hard to find elsewhere. As you venture through Sightseeing Tour Victoria, you'll be captivated by the blend of historic architecture and vibrant street life. As you glide through the streets of Sightseeing Tour Victoria, your chauffeur, a connoisseur of the city, ensures you don't miss a beat of its rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
It's not just about the sights; it's an immersive experience that includes tales of the city's nighttime lore, making history come alive in the dark. Each stop is a chapter in Sightseeing Tour Victoria's story, told through stone, glass, and steel. Whether you're a nature lover, a gardening enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Royal Botanic Gardens walk promises an enchanting escape into nature's embrace. This approach not only allows for a deeper connection with the guide but also facilitates an interactive dialogue among participants, enriching your understanding of each site.
Next, you'll step inside the Royal BC Museum, where British Columbia's past comes to life. Your tour doesn't just stick to the beaten path; it reveals the hidden gems often overlooked. The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens dazzles with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations, turning the garden into a winter wonderland. You'll find packages that cater to every interest and desire, ensuring your visit is nothing short of unforgettable.
Star Sightseeing understands that luxury is in the details. Opting for a private tour with Star Sightseeing offers you unparalleled flexibility and personal attention, ensuring your experience is tailored just for you. Star Sightseeing's customized tours will guide you through these wonders, ensuring you don't miss a detail. Their chauffeurs are well-trained in health and safety protocols, wearing masks and practicing social distancing whenever possible to protect you and themselves. Victoria private tours

Explore Sightseeing Tour Victoria here
Sightseeing Tour Victoria private tour experiences

 

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]

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Star Sightseeing supports local communities and sustainable tourism in Victoria by partnering with local businesses, reducing waste, and promoting eco-friendly practices to ensure you're not just visiting, but also positively contributing to the area.

Yes, there are age restrictions for participating in the guided tour packages. You'll need to check the specific requirements for each tour, as they can vary. Always best to confirm directly before booking your adventure.

Yes, there are age restrictions for the Star Sightseeing Victoria tour. You'll need to check their official guidelines or contact them directly to find out the specific age requirements for participants.