While the personalized experience of a private tour enhances your visit, meeting local guides truly brings Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's stories and secrets to life. They can arrange that. If you've ever yearned for a travel experience that transcends the ordinary and catapults you into the extraordinary, the details of this tour might just hold the key to your next grand adventure.
It's not just a photo; it's a moment frozen in time, a testament to your adventures. Luckily, the booking process is as premium as the experience itself. You won't find yourself in crowded tourist spots; instead, you'll be introduced to hidden gems of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC that only a privileged few know about. 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.
From the bustling streets of Melbourne to the serene beauty of the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley's inviting vineyards, and the enchanting wildlife of Phillip Island, there's a slice of paradise for every type of traveler. Your journey continues with a helicopter ride, offering breathtaking aerial views of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's landscape, juxtaposed with the luxury of flying privately. Victoria boat tours 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.
Entity Name | Description | Source |
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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 is the southernmost major city in Western Canada and is about 100 km (62 mi) southwest from British Columbia's largest city of Vancouver on the mainland. The city is about 100 km (62 mi) from Seattle by airplane, seaplane, ferry, or the Victoria Clipper passenger-only ferry, and 40 km (25 mi) from Port Angeles, Washington, by ferry Coho across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Your chauffeur will whisk you away to hidden gems, like the breathtaking vistas at Beacon Hill Park, that many visitors overlook. Victoria sightseeing deals North Victoria sightseeing tours By preparing thoroughly, you'll ensure your Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC sightseeing tour is enjoyable and hassle-free.
Having explored the rich tapestry of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's history, let's now turn our attention to the highlights of the exclusive tour that await you. Star Sightseeing ensures that your wildlife encounters are both respectful and sustainable, contributing to the preservation of these species for generations to come. Think state-of-the-art amenities, unparalleled comfort, and sleek designs. After payment, you'll receive a confirmation email with all the details of your adventure, including meeting points and what to bring. As you explore these bespoke journeys, you'll discover not just the well-trodden paths but also the hidden gems that this beautiful location holds, all wrapped in a package of luxury that redefines travel norms.
From its indigenous roots, through the boom of the Gold Rush era, to its current status as a cultural and architectural gem, every site you visit is a chapter in a captivating narrative. This means if you're captivated by the city's historic architecture or its vibrant art scene, you can dive deeper into these aspects without worrying about keeping up with a group or missing out on what interests you most. Embarking on the New Sightseeing Tour Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC by Star Sightseeing, you'll discover the city's iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Victoria tourist attractions Whether you're a history buff keen on exploring Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's rich past or an adventure seeker looking for the thrill of outdoor activities, we've got you covered.
Whether it's over a shared meal at one of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's renowned eateries or during a leisurely stroll through the Butchart Gardens, these moments of connection can enrich your experience. This tour isn't just about seeing the sights; it's about indulging in an atmosphere of luxury and serenity. Diving into the heart of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC, you'll uncover the city's iconic landmarks, each with a story waiting to be told. These are the kinds of experiences we strive to provide, making your visit not just memorable, but truly personalized.
Embark on a journey of discovery with Star Sightseeing, where Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's hidden gems and celestial wonders await your exploration. And don't forget your camera – the views you'll encounter are nothing short of Instagram-worthy. Unlike conventional tours, Star Sightseeing offers an immersive experience that combines the thrill of discovery with the luxury of personalized attention. With just a few clicks, you can secure your spot on a journey through this breathtaking city, taking the hassle out of planning your itinerary.
You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's past and present, understanding not just the what and the where, but the why behind every sight. Expect to be wowed by the beauty of Butchart Gardens, where the floral displays are a feast for the senses. Victoria cultural tours You'll dive into the rich history and vibrant culture that define this beautiful city. Choosing Star Sightseeing for your Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC adventure ensures you'll experience the best the city has to offer, thanks to their expert guides and meticulously planned tours.
You'll engage in discussions, enjoy exclusive access to certain exhibits, and even meet some of the artists behind contemporary works. First, visit the Star Sightseeing website. Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's gourmet scene is a haven for foodies, offering everything from farm-to-table experiences to high-end dining adventures.
Their tips often lead to the most memorable parts of your trip, making your experience truly unique. Victoria scuba diving tours Star Sightseeing's premium tours whisk you away from the city's hustle and bustle, guiding you through serene settings that seem worlds apart. It's your time to explore, indulge, and create unforgettable memories, all facilitated by a hassle-free booking experience.
Let's take a closer look at how they're changing the game in Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's tourism industry, and perhaps, find the perfect adventure that awaits you. They ensure every detail of your tour is curated to your interests, making every moment feel special. You'll sip on expertly brewed coffee in hidden cafes that only locals know about, letting you in on the secret behind Melbourne's title as the coffee capital of Australia.
Let Star Sightseeing guide you through Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's coastal marvels. Imagine sipping on fine local wines aboard a private yacht as it sails through the sparkling waters near the coast, offering not just a taste of the region's renowned viticulture but also an adventure at sea. And if you're booking for a group, there might be discounts available, so be sure to inquire. Imagine the thrill of spotting seals basking on the rocks at Seal Rocks or catching a glimpse of koalas in their natural habitat at the Koala Conservation Reserve. Star Sightseeing doesn't just show you where to eat; they immerse you in Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's culinary culture.
From folk to jazz, Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's lively music scene offers something for every taste. Don't worry if you're feeling overwhelmed by the options; Star Sightseeing's customer service is top-notch. Victoria guided tours You'll find yourself whisked away to exclusive vineyards, where the art of winemaking is both a tradition and a passion. The question now isn't whether you should embark on this adventure, but what wonders await you in Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's hidden gems and storied streets.
After your ride, you'll explore the charming towns of Olinda and Sassafras, known for their boutique shops, artisan crafts, and cozy cafes. You're all there to explore and learn, so you'll likely find common ground quickly. Read more about Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC here As you wander through the cobbled streets, you're not just stepping on stones; you're retracing the steps of pioneers, visionaries, and everyday folk who left their mark on Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC. Keep a portable power bank handy to ensure your devices never run out of juice during your explorations.
So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to uncover the countryside's secrets, with memories that'll last a lifetime. Nature lovers, prepare for your heart to swell as you wander through ancient forests, home to an array of unique wildlife. Stick around to uncover how a customized tour can transform your view of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC, making your trip an adventure that's as unique as you are. Sightseeing Victoria It's not just a tour; it's your own private exploration of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's best-kept secrets.
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. You'll find the tour listed under the 'Exclusive Tours' section. 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. As the leaves change color, the Fall Fairfield festival in autumn offers a chance to experience local arts, crafts, and culinary delights. This era, starting in the 1850s, transformed Ballarat from a small sheep station to a bustling city with the discovery of gold.
These are the spots where the true essence of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC comes alive, away from the crowded tourist sites. Each stop is an opportunity to dive deeper into what makes Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC truly special. Want to stop for a photo at a scenic viewpoint? Whether you're keen to explore Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's majestic gardens, delve into its historic architecture, or simply soak up the vibrant city atmosphere, Star Sightseeing has a tour that's tailored just for you.
In addition to providing a luxurious travel experience, Star Sightseeing prioritizes your safety and hygiene with rigorous standards. If you've got a daring spirit, this is your moment to shine, with the city bustling beneath your feet. Victoria sightseeing with kids The Skydeck has plenty to offer with its state-of-the-art telescopes and informative displays, giving you a closer look at Melbourne's iconic landmarks without leaving solid ground. It's not just about seeing; it's about experiencing.
Our selection of vehicles isn't just about getting you from point A to B; it's about ensuring your journey is as memorable as the destinations themselves. Each pole tells a story, rich with Indigenous culture and artistry, capturing the essence of Photography Guided Tours Victoria BC's diverse heritage. Nestled just an hour's drive from Melbourne, this lush, mountainous region invites you to immerse yourself in its cool fern glades, towering forests, and quaint hilltop villages. But it's not all about the past.
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A tour bus service is an escorted tour (sometimes a package holiday) or bus service that takes visitors sightseeing, with routes around tourist attractions.
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It has been suggested that this section be split out into another article titled City tourist bus service. (Discuss) (January 2023)
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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.
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Tours
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Prefecture and commune
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Medieval buildings on Place Plumereau
Pont Wilson over the Loire
Prébendes d'Oé garden
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Coordinates:
47°23′37″N 0°41′21″E / 47.393611°N 0.689167°ECountryFranceRegionCentre-Val de LoireDepartmentIndre-et-LoireArrondissementToursCantonTours-1
Tours-2
Tours-3
Tours-4IntercommunalityTours Métropole Val de LoireGovernment
• Mayor (2020–2026) Emmanuel Denis[1] (The Greens)
34.7 km2 (13.4 sq mi) • Urban
684.9 km2 (264.4 sq mi) • Metro
3,631.6 km2 (1,402.2 sq mi)Population
138,668 • Rank26th in France • Density4,000/km2 (10,000/sq mi) • Urban
359,992 • Urban density530/km2 (1,400/sq mi) • Metro
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
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 (/tÊŠÉ™r/ TOOR; French: [tuÊÂ] ⓘ) 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.
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]
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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) | |||||||||||||
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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] |
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.
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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.
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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.
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]
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Source: EHESS[12] and INSEE (1968–2017)[13] |
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]
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.
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]
Tours is twinned with:[28]
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, you'll find special discounts for early bookings and for large groups joining the tour. It's a great way to save while ensuring an amazing experience. Don't miss out on these fantastic opportunities!
You'll need to check Star Sightseeing's cancellation policies directly, as they vary. Typically, there's flexibility for unforeseen circumstances, but it's best to review the terms or contact them directly for specifics on refunds or rescheduling.