Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours

Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours

Victoria photography tours

Whether you're hiking through lush forests that seem to whisper secrets of the old, or strolling along rugged coastlines battered by waves yet standing resilient, you're part of the scenery. Lean more about Victoria Private Sightseeing Tours here. Learn more about Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours here You'll find yourself mesmerized by the architectural marvels and the tales they harbor. Next, you'll glide to the Royal BC Museum, where history and nature converge. You'll taste the local cuisine in a way that goes beyond mere eating. Don't forget to include some downtime in your itinerary.
Here, you'll find yourself on specially constructed viewing platforms that ensure you get the best view without disturbing the penguins' natural habitat. From the bustling streets of the city during the renowned Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours International Arts Festival to the colorful explosion of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, you'll experience firsthand the dynamic cultural tapestry that makes this region unique. With the latest expansion, the tour company has introduced a series of exclusive destinations in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours, ensuring your sightseeing adventure is unparalleled and memorable. Star Sightseeing listens and adjusts, making sure your time in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours is exactly what you dreamed it would be. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
You're not just seeing these iconic limestone stacks; you're experiencing the power of nature.

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Exploring Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's vibrant art scene and prestigious museums, Star Sightseeing's tours offer you an immersive journey into the heart of the region's cultural heritage. From the opulence of the fleet to the knowledge and professionalism of your personal chauffeur-guide, every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience. As you embark on this journey, you'll gain cultural insights and hear stories that breathe life into the architectural marvels you'll encounter, offering a glimpse into local life that many visitors miss.
You'll explore the legacy of the miners who flocked here from around the world, dreaming of striking it rich. Star Sightseeing's guides are your gateway to discovering these treasures, sharing tales that breathe life into every corner. Spring tours highlight the breathtaking bloom of cherry blossoms, with guides pointing out the best spots for that perfect photo. Here, detailed information about the tour, including dates, times, and what you can expect to see and do, is readily available.

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Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's compact city center makes walking a delightful option, but for farther-flung attractions, you might want to look into public transport or the convenience of a guided tour with Star Sightseeing, which can streamline your day and eliminate the hassle of navigating. Next, you're led to the Craigdarroch Castle, a Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Toursn-era mansion that epitomizes opulence. Imagine embarking on a journey where every turn opens the door to a new world, a world where luxury and exploration blend seamlessly under the guise of Star Sightseeing's unmatched tours of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours with their luxury chauffeured services. Whether you're planning your perfect day out, curious about what to expect on your tour, or eager to learn more about capturing memories amidst Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's stunning backdrops, Star Sightseeing offers a comprehensive package.
Beyond the cultural festivities, you'll discover Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's hidden gems on our exclusive city tours. You start by sharing your must-see destinations and activities - think of it as creating a wish list for your perfect day or days in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours. Star Sightseeing doesn't just show you places; they craft experiences that connect you deeply with Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's natural beauty and rural charm.
You'll find yourself marveling at rugged cliffs, scenic waterfalls, and wildflowers that blanket the area in a riot of colors during spring. Star Sightseeing ensures you'll catch the best angles, with guides pointing out hidden gems not found in guidebooks. You'll leave with a heart full of memories and a renewed sense of togetherness, proving that Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours isn't just a destination-it's a journey back to each other. Read more about Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours here
They're flexible, too. Victoria photography tours Whether you're keen to explore coastal wonders, delve into the cultural heritage, or discover hidden gems off the beaten path, their expertly crafted itineraries promise to elevate your visit from ordinary to extraordinary. Let's explore what makes this tour a must for anyone seeking to truly understand the heart and soul of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours.

Victoria City Sightseeing Tours

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 City Sightseeing

Known as "the Garden City", Victoria is an attractive city and a popular tourism destination and has a regional technology sector that has risen to be its largest revenue-generating private industry. In 2019, Victoria was in the top 20 world cities for quality of life, according to Numbeo.

Citations and other links

Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours Night Bus Tours

First, head to their official website where you'll find a comprehensive 'Book Now' section. Winter, though cooler, sparkles with festive lights and offers a unique charm. 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. Victoria food tours In short, opting for a guided tour with Star Sightseeing isn't just a way to see Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours; it's the opportunity to truly experience it, without the stress of planning every detail yourself. But it doesn't stop there.

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. Each vehicle is equipped with premium amenities, from plush seating to climate control, making every moment of your journey as enjoyable as the destinations themselves. Here, nature's quiet beauty offers a stark contrast to the grandiose attractions Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours is known for. You'll have the chance to walk beneath ancient canopies in rainforests that have stood for millennia, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Star Sightseeing doesn't just show you the sights; it immerses you in the true essence of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours. They specialize in creating itineraries that reflect your personal style and interests, ensuring that every moment is memorable. That's why their vehicles are meticulously cleaned and sanitized before each tour. This flexibility is a game-changer for meticulous planners and those with tight schedules.

They understand the rhythm of the city, helping you avoid the hassle of navigating through traffic or finding parking spaces. For those who crave adventure, the 'Wild Coast Explorer' is a must. If you're pressed for time, this condensed yet insightful option is your go-to. That's exactly what you'll get with Star Sightseeing's luxury tours. Victoria kayaking tours

Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours Night Bus Tours
Guided Bus Tours in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours

Guided Bus Tours in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours

Eager to explore historical landmarks without the crowds? You're not just another face in the crowd; your preferences and desires shape the day.

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You'll wander through the majestic halls of the Parliament Buildings, where the echoes of past legislations still reverberate. Don't just see Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours; experience its hidden night-time magic with Star Sightseeing. Families aren't left out, with tailored packages that include fun and educational activities for all ages, making your family vacation both memorable and meaningful.

This unique experience is a highlight of Star Sightseeing's guided tour packages, offering you a front-row seat to nature's enchanting performance. Let Star Sightseeing tailor your journey through these architectural marvels, offering you a unique glimpse into Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's past and future. With a Star Sightseeing private tour, you're not just a tourist-you're an explorer diving deep into the heart of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours. From the moment you're greeted by your professional chauffeur, you'll realize this isn't your average sightseeing tour.

In essence, Star Sightseeing doesn't just offer tours; they promise unforgettable experiences where luxury is measured not just in material wealth, but in unique memories and personalized adventures. Victoria cherry blossom tours Don't be shy to strike up conversations. Their curated routes guide you through the cobblestone streets of the historic downtown, where each corner reveals a story spanning back centuries. Star Sightseeing ensures you're immersed in the festive spirit, making your winter visit truly special.

With Star Sightseeing, you'll gain exclusive access to some of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's most hidden treasures, places that are usually off the radar for most tourists. Victoria history tours It's this flexibility that transforms your tour from a simple sightseeing trip into a bespoke travel experience.

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We listen carefully to what excites you and tailor your itinerary accordingly, balancing famous attractions with hidden gems that align with your interests.

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From private sunset cruises along the picturesque coastline to cozy wine tastings nestled in the lush vineyards of the countryside, Star Sightseeing knows how to set the mood for love.

Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours Hop-On Tours

Every aspect of Star Sightseeing's luxury chauffeured service is designed to ensure your travel through Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Victoria guided tours Whether you're celebrating a milestone anniversary or simply looking to reignite the spark, Star Sightseeing's custom tours offer the perfect backdrop. 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. Your chauffeur, knowledgeable and passionate about Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's lesser-known sights, offers insights that enrich your journey, making each discovery feel personal and exclusive.

Their guides aren't just locals; they're storytellers, weaving the rich tapestry of the city's history, culture, and landmarks into an unforgettable narrative that'll stick with you long after you've returned home. It's more than a tour; it's a journey into the heart of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's wilderness, promising moments of awe and wonder. By planning ahead, you're not just guaranteeing your place; you're also opening the door to a range of exclusive advantages that can enhance your tour even further.

As summer rolls in, Star Sightseeing shifts its focus to the coastal beauty and outdoor festivals that define Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours. Whether you're gazing at the stars from a secluded viewpoint, wandering through hidden alleyways brimming with street art, or tasting your way through Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's vibrant food scene, Star Sightseeing ensures that every moment of your journey is memorable. Before you set off on your Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours sightseeing adventure, make sure you've packed all the essentials to make the most out of your trip.

Following your exploration of Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's vibrant wildlife, Star Sightseeing invites you to savor the city's rich culinary landscape. Star Sightseeing's tours take you beyond the ordinary, offering a unique chance to explore the rich tapestry of tastes that define this vibrant region.

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From farm-to-table bistros to high-end dining experiences, the variety will astonish you.

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Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours Hop-On Tours
Historical Exploration Tours Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours
Historical Exploration Tours Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours

The tour also introduces you to bespoke adventures tailored to your interests, whether it's an exclusive wildlife safari or a private culinary tour with renowned local chefs.

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If you decide mid-tour that you'd like to spend more time at a particular spot or skip another, they're happy to accommodate. From the lush landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges, we'll take you to the coastal charm of the Mornington Peninsula, where vineyards meet ocean vistas and adventure awaits at every corner. You'll wander through bustling laneways, each painted with the stories of local artists, their graffiti murals turning walls into canvases of urban creativity.

Lastly, once you're happy with the proposed itinerary, you'll confirm your booking with a deposit. They highlight the personalized touches that made their day so special, from the champagne waiting for them to the chauffeur's impeccable timing ensuring they caught the sunset at the perfect spot. It's this universal appeal that keeps people talking and coming back for more.

Imagine having the key to unlock experiences that aren't available to the general public. Lastly, for the culturally curious, the Cultural Heritage Tour dives deep into the arts, cuisines, and traditions that make Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours unique. Booking your tickets in advance is a must.

Here, you can savor unique wine tasting experiences not offered to the general populace. Star Sightseeing is committed to providing a seamless and enriching travel experience, so you can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime. At Star Sightseeing Tour Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours, we customize each journey to suit your unique preferences, ensuring that every traveler has an experience tailored just for them. Victoria island tours

Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours Brewery Tours

It's more than a walk; it's an immersion into a world where nature and artistry merge seamlessly. Remember, arriving at least 15 minutes early gives you a stress-free start to an unforgettable tour. It's not just about the plush seats or the gourmet meals served onboard; it's the meticulous attention to detail and the personalized experiences that set these tours apart.

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Stay with us to uncover how they're redefining the art of exploration in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours, and why this might be the perfect time for you to discover or rediscover the wonders of this enchanting place. That's why they've designed their services to be as flexible and accommodating as possible.

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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 Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours is as enriching as it's effortless. Victoria suburbs sightseeing 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 tour isn't just about seeing; it's about experiencing. Star Sightseeing ensures each visit is more than a glance at art pieces.
We'll explore the rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, offering ample photo opportunities. Your chauffeur isn't just a driver; they're your gateway to Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours's best-kept secrets, ready to offer insights and stories that bring the city to life. Don't forget to dress warmly, as evenings can get chilly. Crafting your perfect day in Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours starts with deciding what sights and experiences top your must-see list.
You'll wander through historical districts where every building tells a story, and visit museums that showcase the finest in local and indigenous artistry. But what sets Star Sightseeing apart isn't just their personalized approach; it's their commitment to creating unforgettable moments that resonate on a personal level. Now that you're inspired by the romantic possibilities, it's time to start planning your customized adventure with Star Sightseeing. Let's explore the benefits that await and how they can transform your visit into an unforgettable journey.

Explore Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours here
Victoria BC Wildlife Guided Tours Brewery Tours

 

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]

 

 

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.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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.