Private Whistler Tour Packages

Private Whistler Tour Packages

Whistler multi-day tours

You're not just moving from point A to B; you're wrapped in luxury, with every twist and turn through Whistler's breathtaking landscapes becoming part of an unforgettable adventure.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler extreme sports tours

  1. Whistler bike tours
  2. Whistler village tours
  3. Whistler cultural experience tours
  4. Whistler fall foliage tours
  5. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  6. Whistler off-road tours
  7. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  8. Whistler walking tours
  9. Whistler bike tours
  10. Whistler village tours
  11. Whistler cultural experience tours
  12. Whistler fall foliage tours
  13. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  14. Whistler off-road tours
  15. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  16. Whistler walking tours
Learn more about Private Whistler Tour Packages Here They'll include stops at the most picturesque spots. We also engage in regular training for our guides on sustainable practices and environmental education, equipping them to share valuable insights with our guests on how they can travel more responsibly.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler hiking tours

  1. Whistler snowshoe tours
  2. Whistler road trips
  3. Whistler ski resort tours
  4. Whistler sightseeing packages
  5. Best places to visit in Whistler
  6. Whistler botanical garden tours
  7. Whistler walking tours
  8. Whistler bike tours
  9. Whistler village tours
  10. Whistler cultural experience tours
  11. Whistler fall foliage tours
  12. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  13. Whistler off-road tours
  14. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  15. Whistler snowshoe tours
  16. Whistler road trips
  17. Whistler ski resort tours
  18. Whistler sightseeing packages
  19. Best places to visit in Whistler
Expect amenities like heated outdoor pools, gourmet dining experiences, and serene spa services, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Whistler's natural beauty.
Next, the 'Forest Whisperer' package takes you on a guided hike through ancient woods, with augmented reality (AR) elements that reveal the hidden life of the forest. Whether you're soaring over majestic peaks or exploring hidden valleys, every moment feels as if you're truly there, all without leaving your seat. You'll meet guides like Jake, a former Olympic skier who shares insider views of Whistler's slopes and athletic heritage.
From winter wonderlands that capture the essence of the season to summer adventures that awaken the spirit, these packages promise something beyond the ordinary. You'll find the winter months from December to March ideal for snow sports and the 4D Snow Experience. So, sit back, relax, and let's take care of the rest. Lean more about Star Sightseeing - Whistler here.
Just when you thought you'd mastered 3D, Star Sightseeing ups the ante by throwing an extra dimension into your Whistler escape, because apparently, reality just wasn't cutting it anymore. You'll enjoy direct access to a dedicated concierge who'll cater to your every need, from booking exclusive dining experiences to arranging private transportation. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a family wanting a leisurely stroll, there's a guided walk that fits your pace and interests.

Here, you can browse through various tour packages that showcase the best of Whistler. As you venture through the breathtaking landscapes, you'll delve into the rich history and diverse ecosystems that make this area unique. Whistler wilderness tours Imagine looking at a mountain and seeing its name, height, and history pop up in your field of vision. Don't forget to check the cancellation policy for peace of mind. You're not just a spectator on these journeys; you're an active participant in a meticulously crafted adventure that combines the natural grandeur of Whistler with cutting-edge technology to engage all your senses.
It's a hands-on experience that connects you deeply with the First Nations' history and values. We also prioritize the use of sustainable transportation options, incorporating electric vehicles and encouraging our guests to do the same.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler snowshoe tours

  1. Whistler bike tours
  2. Whistler village tours
  3. Whistler cultural experience tours
  4. Whistler fall foliage tours
  5. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  6. Whistler off-road tours
  7. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  8. Whistler bike tours
  9. Whistler village tours
  10. Whistler cultural experience tours
  11. Whistler fall foliage tours
  12. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  13. Whistler off-road tours
  14. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  15. Whistler bike tours
  16. Whistler village tours
  17. Whistler cultural experience tours
  18. Whistler fall foliage tours
  19. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  20. Whistler off-road tours
It's an ideal setting for reconnecting with loved ones or indulging in some well-deserved solitude. Or, perhaps you're more into tackling the rugged terrain on a mountain bike, feeling the rush as you navigate down world-class trails that have made Whistler famous.
They've rolled out step-on guides and guided walks, transforming how you explore this breathtaking resort town. Star Sightseeing hasn't just picked any dining spots; they've partnered with establishments known for their commitment to quality, sustainability, and an exceptional dining experience. Read more about Private Whistler Tour Packages Here You'll receive an email with all the details of your STAR adventure, including what to bring and where to meet. Moreover, this blend of virtual and physical experiences caters to all types of travelers.
These customizable options ensure that your experience isn't just another off-the-shelf tour. After selecting your package, you'll be prompted to enter your details and any special requests you might have. They're not just tour guides; they're storytellers, educators, and, most importantly, your gateway to a more profound connection with Whistler's breathtaking landscapes.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler mountain biking tours

  1. Whistler walking tours
  2. Whistler bike tours
  3. Whistler village tours
  4. Whistler cultural experience tours
  5. Whistler fall foliage tours
  6. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  7. Whistler off-road tours
  8. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  9. Whistler botanical garden tours
  10. Whistler walking tours
  11. Whistler bike tours
  12. Whistler village tours
  13. Whistler cultural experience tours
  14. Whistler fall foliage tours
  15. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  16. Whistler off-road tours
  17. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  18. Whistler botanical garden tours
  19. Whistler walking tours
Furthermore, each souvenir comes with a story card, detailing its significance and the craftsmanship behind it, making your keepsake a conversation starter.



Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler hiking tours

  1. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  2. Whistler cultural experience tours
  3. Whistler fall foliage tours
  4. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  5. Whistler off-road tours
  6. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  7. Whistler cultural experience tours
  8. Whistler fall foliage tours
  9. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  10. Whistler off-road tours
  11. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  12. Whistler cultural experience tours
  13. Whistler fall foliage tours
  14. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  15. Whistler off-road tours
  16. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  17. Whistler cultural experience tours
  18. Whistler fall foliage tours
  19. Whistler sightseeing itineraries

Adventure Tours Whistler

Whistler (Lillooet: Cwitima, [xʷetemɛ]; Squamish: Sḵwiḵw, [sqʷɛqʷ]) is a resort municipality in Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, British Columbia, Canada. It is located in the southern Pacific Ranges of the Coast Mountains, approximately 125 km (78 mi) north of Vancouver and 36 km (22 mi) south of Pemberton. It has a permanent population of approximately 13,982 (2021), as well as a larger but rotating population of seasonal workers.

Citations and other links

Top Tour Packages Whistler

We've tailored each experience to minimize our carbon footprint while maximizing your enjoyment. It's not just a walk; it's a journey through time. For something more tranquil, imagine embarking on a snowshoeing expedition, where silence and snowflakes accompany you, creating a peaceful rhythm all their own. Even the snacks and beverages we offer onboard are thoughtfully selected from organic, local suppliers whenever possible.

You're not just a spectator; you're an active participant in the Whistler story. They're equipped to bring the history, culture, and natural beauty of the area to life in a way that's engaging and informative. Whistler mountain biking tours You're not just exploring; you're connecting with nature in an unforgettable way.

From accommodations that practice energy efficiency to restaurants that source ingredients locally, your journey supports a community dedicated to sustainability. This enriches your visit, transforming it from a simple holiday into a memorable journey of discovery. But it's not all about the rush. Whistler road trips

Plus, with all the logistics handled, you don't have to worry about a thing. Star Sightseeing doesn't stop there. Dive into the heart of Whistler's breathtaking landscapes with exclusive tour highlights designed to unveil the hidden gems of this mountain paradise.

Top Tour Packages Whistler
Hop-On Hop-Off Tours Whistler

Hop-On Hop-Off Tours Whistler

They're not just about guiding you from point A to B; they're about creating memorable experiences, sharing laughter, and perhaps, if you're lucky, revealing Whistler's best-kept secrets. Imagine settling into plush seating, with expansive windows offering unobstructed views of Whistler's breathtaking landscapes. Discover the perfect Whistler sightseeing tour package that aligns with your adventure and learning aspirations. Whistler multi-day tours As a valued guest of Star Sightseeing's Whistler tour packages, you're in for a treat that goes beyond the stunning landscapes and luxurious accommodations. Whistler's mountains beckon, its trails whisper your name, and now, the sightseeing tour packages have transformed to offer you something unparalleled - the STAR Experience.

So, are you ready to meet the team that will transform your Whistler trip into an unforgettable adventure?

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler mountain biking tours

  1. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  2. Whistler village tours
  3. Whistler cultural experience tours
  4. Whistler fall foliage tours
  5. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  6. Whistler off-road tours
  7. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  8. Whistler village tours
  9. Whistler cultural experience tours
  10. Whistler fall foliage tours
  11. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  12. Whistler off-road tours
  13. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  14. Whistler village tours
  15. Whistler cultural experience tours
  16. Whistler fall foliage tours
  17. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  18. Whistler off-road tours
Don't forget to review the details of the tour, including duration, what's included, and any prerequisites or physical requirements. Star Sightseeing ensures every moment is imbued with the spirit of the season, offering cozy evening retreats by crackling fires and opportunities to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights. They're an invitation to dive deeper into the essence of Whistler, guided by your own passions and curiosities.

Exclusive helicopter rides, luxury accommodations, and the chance to meet expert guides who know Whistler like the back of their hand are just the tip of the iceberg. Star Sightseeing has curated a selection of helicopter tours that cater to every taste. You're not merely a spectator; you're an active participant in the environment. In winter, you'll be whisked away into a snowy wonderland, where skiing and snowboarding adventures await.

These vehicles aren't just about comfort and aesthetics; they're powered by the latest in eco-friendly technology. Whistler sightseeing packages Star Sightseeing's new interactive 4D tour packages employ cutting-edge technology to bring Whistler's stunning landscapes to life in ways you've never experienced before. Moreover, their selection includes properties that offer exclusive access to ski-in/ski-out facilities, heated outdoor pools, and gourmet dining options. It's all about what you want.

Whistler Bus Sightseeing Tours

You'll be able to glide down the same runs that have hosted world-class athletes, with options for every skill level, from beginner to expert. First, visit the Star Sightseeing website. You'll be asked to fill in some personal information and select any add-ons to enhance your experience. Plus, with the flexibility to adjust your itinerary on the fly, you're guaranteed a personalized adventure that perfectly matches your mood and interests. With Star Sightseeing, you're never just a visitor; you become part of a story, leaving with tales of your own to tell.

With Star Sightseeing, it's not just a trip; it's an experience, enriched with perks that cater exclusively to you. Following a day filled with outdoor adventures, you'll likely have worked up an appetite, setting the stage perfectly for Whistler's gourmet dining experience. We've invested in hybrid engines that significantly reduce emissions, making your journey to Whistler as green as it's serene. If you're looking for more adrenaline, mountain biking down Whistler's world-renowned trails or zip-lining across canyons might be right up your alley.

These virtual previews ensure you don't miss out on hidden gems and can make informed decisions about where you want to spend more time. Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Whistler? Next, click on the 'Book Now' button associated with your selected package. Don't just visit Whistler-experience it with Star Sightseeing.

Whether you're eager to explore ancient forests, glistening lakes, or majestic mountains, there's a tour tailored to your interests. Star Sightseeing's tour packages also offer exclusive private lake excursions, providing a serene escape into Whistler's natural beauty. Imagine strapping into a state-of-the-art virtual reality headset as you're whisked away on a bobsled ride down the Olympic track, feeling every twist and turn with wind and temperature changes to match. Imagine stepping off the beaten path to explore hidden waterfalls only known to locals, or embarking on a twilight zip-lining adventure under a canopy of stars. Whistler cultural tours

Whistler Bus Sightseeing Tours
Whistler Day Sightseeing Tours
Whistler Day Sightseeing Tours

It's Star Sightseeing's way of saying thank you and inviting you to be part of the celebration.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler road trips

  1. Whistler botanical garden tours
  2. Whistler walking tours
  3. Whistler bike tours
  4. Whistler village tours
  5. Whistler cultural experience tours
  6. Whistler fall foliage tours
  7. Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  8. Whistler off-road tours
  9. Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  10. Whistler road trips
  11. Whistler ski resort tours
  12. Whistler sightseeing packages
  13. Best places to visit in Whistler
  14. Whistler botanical garden tours
  15. Whistler walking tours
  16. Whistler bike tours
From the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains to the serene waters of Lost Lake, Whistler's natural wonders are yours to discover. That's why we've implemented eco-friendly measures across all aspects of our tours to ensure we preserve Whistler's pristine landscapes for future generations. Imagine soaring above the breathtaking landscapes, where the views stretch endlessly, and the beauty of British Columbia unfolds beneath you like a vast, living tapestry. Step-on guides offer a level of personalization that's hard to find elsewhere.

Building on your cultural immersion, our expert guides are the key to unlocking Whistler's hidden gems and stories.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler hiking tours

  • Whistler village tours
  • Whistler cultural experience tours
  • Whistler fall foliage tours
  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  • Whistler off-road tours
  • Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  • Whistler cultural tours
  • Whistler mountain biking tours
  • Whistler wilderness tours
  • Whistler extreme sports tours
  • Whistler hiking tours
  • Whistler snowshoe tours
  • Whistler road trips
  • Whistler ski resort tours
  • Whistler sightseeing packages
  • Best places to visit in Whistler
  • Whistler botanical garden tours
  • Whistler walking tours
  • Whistler bike tours
These lodgings aren't just places to stay; they're havens designed to pamper and please, ensuring your getaway is as indulgent as it's exciting. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, they adapt, making your Whistler sightseeing tour uniquely memorable. This isn't just another virtual reality; it's a multisensory journey that brings the enchanting outdoors to you, combining stunning visuals with physical sensations to mimic the Whistler environment perfectly.

For those seeking a more secluded retreat, Whistler's luxury villas and chalets are a perfect choice.

Private Whistler Tour Packages - Whistler mountain biking tours

  • Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  • Whistler sightseeing packages
  • Best places to visit in Whistler
  • Whistler botanical garden tours
  • Whistler walking tours
  • Whistler bike tours
  • Whistler village tours
  • Whistler cultural experience tours
  • Whistler fall foliage tours
  • Whistler sightseeing itineraries
  • Whistler off-road tours
  • Whistler sightseeing on a budget
  • Whistler sightseeing packages
  • Best places to visit in Whistler
  • Whistler botanical garden tours
  • Whistler walking tours
After a day packed with adventure, you'll find unparalleled comfort and luxury in Whistler's accommodations, where every detail caters to your relaxation and rejuvenation. Understanding your unique preferences, tailored tour packages in Whistler offer a personalized adventure just for you. They don't just guide; they connect, ensuring you're not just a spectator but a part of Whistler's unfolding story.

Whistler's adventure activities offer an exhilarating way to experience the area's natural beauty, from zip-lining across canyons to mountain biking on world-renowned trails. Moreover, flexibility is key with Star Sightseeing. Imagine starting your day with a heart-pumping hike through stunning mountain trails, your guide pointing out hidden gems and sharing stories that bring the landscape to life. Your safety isn't just Star Sightseeing's priority; it's built into every mile of your adventure.

Explore Tours Whistler

Around crackling campfires, under a blanket of stars, you'll hear tales that have shaped the region, offering insights into the land, its people, and their way of life. Their stories, art, and spiritual beliefs are interwoven into the very fabric of Whistler, offering a profound understanding of respect for the land and nature. You'll be prompted to enter your preferred dates, the number of guests, and any special requests. By choosing our eco-friendly coaches, you're not just enjoying a premium ride; you're part of a movement towards responsible, sustainable tourism. They're your companions on a journey of discovery, ready to share the secrets of this magnificent place.
With Star Sightseeing's elevated tour packages, you're in for an unparalleled summer experience. Love the outdoors but not a fan of skiing? Whistler extreme sports tours The 4D effects added a whole new dimension to the learning experience,' she said. You'll also engage with interactive displays that tell the rich stories of Whistler's history, culture, and ecology.
Imagine stepping into a painting where every brushstroke is a breathtaking vista, and the colors come alive with stories and sensations. Beyond enjoying exclusive perks, you'll also appreciate Star Sightseeing's dedication to sustainable tourism practices during your Whistler adventure. To start, visit Star Sightseeing's official website and navigate to the 'Book Your Experience' section. As someone who seeks more than the usual, you'll find the bespoke options and exclusive access highlights tailor-made for your taste.
Elevate your Whistler experience by staying in one of Star Sightseeing's luxury accommodations, where comfort meets elegance in the heart of the wilderness. With onboard amenities that promise comfort and scenic routes that offer unparalleled views, these coaches are set to redefine road travel. These activities aren't just added bonuses; they're core experiences that connect you deeply with the environment. They're here to connect you with the sights, sounds, and secrets of Whistler that you'd likely miss on your own.

Explore Private Whistler Tour Packages Here
Explore Tours Whistler

 

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

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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.

 

 

Methods of travel in Hong Kong, the most visited city according to Euromonitor. Top to bottom: the Cross-Harbour Tunnel and the MTR.
Train travel – Passengers on a train on a bridge of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, between Mettupalayam and Ootacamund, in Tamil Nadu, India

Travel is the movement of people between distant geographical locations. Travel can be done by foot, bicycle, automobile, train, boat, bus, airplane, ship or other means, with or without luggage, and can be one way or round trip.[1] Travel can also include relatively short stays between successive movements, as in the case of tourism.

Etymology

[edit]

The origin of the word "travel" is most likely lost to history. The term "travel" may originate from the Old French word travail, which means 'work'.[2] According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the first known use of the word travel was in the 14th century. It also states that the word comes from Middle English travailen, travelen (which means to torment, labor, strive, journey) and earlier from Old French travailler (which means to work strenuously, toil).

In English, people still occasionally use the words travail, which means struggle. According to Simon Winchester in his book The Best Travelers' Tales (2004), the words travel and travail both share an even more ancient root: a Roman instrument of torture called the tripalium (in Latin it means "three stakes", as in to impale).[citation needed] This link may reflect the extreme difficulty of travel in ancient times. Travel in modern times may or may not be much easier, depending upon the destination. Travel to Mount Everest, the Amazon rainforest, extreme tourism, and adventure travel are more difficult forms of travel. Travel can also be more difficult depending on the method of travel, such as by bus, cruise ship, or even by bullock cart.[3]

Purpose and motivation

[edit]
Traveler's motorcycle with large rear box

Reasons for traveling include recreation,[4] holidays, rejuvenation,[5] tourism[4] or vacationing,[4] research travel,[4] the gathering of information, visiting people, volunteer travel for charity, migration to begin life somewhere else, religious pilgrimages[4] and mission trips, business travel,[4] trade,[4] commuting, obtaining health care,[4] waging or fleeing war, for the enjoyment of traveling, or other reasons. Travelers may use human-powered transport such as walking or bicycling; or vehicles, such as public transport, automobiles, trains, ferries, boats, cruise ships and airplanes.

Motives for travel include:

History

[edit]

Travel dates back to antiquity where wealthy Greeks and Romans would travel for leisure to their summer homes and villas in cities such as Pompeii and Baiae.[9] While early travel tended to be slower, more dangerous, and more dominated by trade and migration, cultural and technological advances over many years have tended to mean that travel has become easier and more accessible.[10] Humankind has come a long way in transportation since Christopher Columbus sailed to the New World from Spain in 1492, an expedition which took over 10 weeks to arrive at the final destination; to the 21st century when aircraft allows travel from Spain to the United States overnight.

Travel in the Middle Ages offered hardships and challenges, though it was important to the economy and to society. The wholesale sector depended (for example) on merchants dealing with/through caravans or sea-voyagers, end-user retailing often demanded the services of many itinerant peddlers wandering from village to hamlet, gyrovagues (wandering monks) and wandering friars brought theology and pastoral support to neglected areas, traveling minstrels toured, and armies ranged far and wide in various crusades and in sundry other wars.[9] Pilgrimages were common in both the European and Islamic world and involved streams of travelers both locally and internationally.[11]

In the late 16th century, it became fashionable for young European aristocrats and wealthy upper-class men to travel to significant European cities as part of their education in the arts and literature. This was known as the Grand Tour, and included cities such as London, Paris, Venice, Florence, and Rome. However, the French Revolution brought with it the end of the Grand Tour.[9]

Travel by water often provided more comfort and speed than land-travel, at least until the advent of a network of railways in the 19th century. Travel for the purpose of tourism is reported to have started around this time when people began to travel for fun as travel was no longer a hard and challenging task. This was capitalized on by people like Thomas Cook selling tourism packages where trains and hotels were booked together.[12] Airships and airplanes took over much of the role of long-distance surface travel in the 20th century, notably after the Second World War where there was a surplus of both aircraft and pilots.[9] Air travel has become so ubiquitous in the 21st century that one woman, Alexis Alford, visited all 196 countries before the age of 21.[13]

Geographic types

[edit]

Travel may be local, regional, national (domestic) or international. In some countries, non-local internal travel may require an internal passport, while international travel typically requires a passport and visa. Tours are a common type of travel. Examples of travel tours are expedition cruises,[14] small group tours,[15] and river cruises.[16]

Safety

[edit]
Travelers in a British Airways 747 airplane. Air travel is a common means of transport.
MS Skania ferry in the port of Szczecin

Authorities emphasize the importance of taking precautions to ensure travel safety.[17] When traveling abroad, the odds favor a safe and incident-free trip, however, travelers can be subject to difficulties, crime and violence.[18] Some safety considerations include being aware of one's surroundings,[17] avoiding being the target of a crime,[17] leaving copies of one's passport and itinerary information with trusted people,[17] obtaining medical insurance valid in the country being visited[17] and registering with one's national embassy when arriving in a foreign country.[17] Many countries do not recognize drivers' licenses from other countries; however most countries accept international driving permits.[19] Automobile insurance policies issued in one's own country are often invalid in foreign countries, and it is often a requirement to obtain temporary auto insurance valid in the country being visited.[19] It is also advisable to become oriented with the driving rules and regulations of destination countries.[19] Wearing a seat belt is highly advisable for safety reasons; many countries have penalties for violating seatbelt laws.[19]

There are three main statistics which may be used to compare the safety of various forms of travel (based on a Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions survey in October 2000):[20]

Mode Deaths per billion
Journeys Hours Kilometers
Bus 4.3 11.1 0.4
Rail 20 30 0.6
Air 117 30.8 0.05
Ship 90 50 2.6
Van 20 60 1.2
Car 40 130 3.1
Walking 40 220 54
Bicycle 170 550 45
Motorcycle 1640 4840 109

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Travel". Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Merriam-Webster. 12 Apr 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  2. ^ Entymoligical dictionary (definition). Retrieved on 10 December 2011
  3. ^ Buzard, J. (1993). The Beaten Track. European Tourism literature, and the Ways to 'Culture' 1800 - 1918. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "The Road to Travel: Purpose of Travel." University of Florida, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. (Compilation for History 3931/REL 3938 course.) Accessed July 2011.
  5. ^ "Motivations of Travel" (PDF). U.S. Travel Association.
  6. ^ Simonson, Lawrence R.; Koth, Barbara A.; Kreag, Glenn M. (1988). "So Your Community Wants Travel/Tourism? Guidelines for Attracting and Servicing Visitors". conservancy.edu. hdl:11299/178439. Retrieved 10 April 2018.
  7. ^ a b "Motivations for Travel Fact Sheet" (PDF). U.S. Travel Association. Retrieved 23 September 2023.
  8. ^ "Cultural Experiences". Worldpackers.
  9. ^ a b c d "A History Of Why People Travel". Matador Network.
  10. ^ "A Brief Visual History of Travel". Accessed May 2017.
  11. ^ Peters, F. E. (1994). The Hajj: The Muslim Pilgrimage to Mecca and the Holy Places. Princeton University Press. p. 164. ISBN 9780691026190.
  12. ^ "A brief history of travel: From elite hobby to mass tourism". Deutsche Welle. Retrieved 13 February 2018.
  13. ^ Beni, Shauna (July 29, 2019). "This Gen Zer Just Became the Youngest Person to Travel to Every Country: Alexis Alford—or Lexie Limitless, as she's known on Instagram—has set the record at just 21 years old". Conde Nast Traveler. Retrieved March 6, 2020. ... By age 12, Alexis Alford ... Alford, now 21, has accomplished her goal...
  14. ^ "Unrivaled Expedition Cruises". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  15. ^ "Book a small group tour with National Geographic Journeys and see more of the world for less". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  16. ^ "River Cruises from National Geographic - Book one of our new authentic River Cruises across Europe or Asia". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  17. ^ a b c d e f "Tips for Traveling Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  18. ^ "A Safe Trip Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  19. ^ a b c d "Road Safety Overseas." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  20. ^ The risks of travel Archived 2001-09-07 at the Wayback Machine
[edit]

 

 

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.
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Further reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

To ensure your safety and health during immersive experiences, they've implemented strict hygiene protocols, regular equipment sanitization, and health checks for staff and guests, making sure you enjoy your adventure worry-free.

To ensure your safety during adventure activities and cultural immersions, operators implement strict safety protocols, including professional guides, safety gear, and thorough briefings to ensure you're well-prepared and secure throughout your experience.

Yes, you can customize your sightseeing package to include specific attractions or activities that aren't listed in the standard packages. Just reach out to the provider to discuss your preferences and make arrangements.