Just back from a two-week research trip cycling through the Loire Valley, I’ve mapped out exactly where to stay in Tours, France. Once a temporary capital of France, this beautiful city blends medieval half-timbered houses with an elegant downtown, perfect for any visitor wanting to explore nearby wine regions. Whether you want to stroll cobblestone streets to admire historic architecture or need a convenient train station base to take a tour of nearby castles, this guide will give you the peace of mind to plan an unforgettable holiday.
Best Hotels in Tours🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: La Maison Jules
- 🏨 4-Star: Hôtel & SPA Oceania L'Univers Tours
- 🛏️ 3-Star: City Résidence Tours
- 💸 Cheap: Campanile Tours Nord
- 🏢 Apartment: Les Beaux Jours
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Guest house Gîte L'Atelier du 6
- 🏩 For Couples: Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre
Quick Guide to the Best Areas
- 🏛️ Historic Culture — Vieux-Tours
- 🍽️ Foodie Nights — Quartier des Halles
- 🌅 Riverfront Chill — Tours-sur-Loire
- 🚆 Convenient Transit — Quartier de la Gare
- 🏰 Quiet Heritage — Quartier Cathédrale
- 🌳 Leafy Retreat — Prébendes
1. Vieux-Tours: A Historic Town Full of Charm
The historic heart of the city is an absolute delight for culture seekers. It boasts an authentic atmosphere characterized by stunning medieval architecture and narrow, picturesque alleys. Staying here puts you steps away from every major historic monument in the old town.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Wander down Rue du Grand Marché and admire the preserved half-timbered houses surrounding the famous Place Plumereau before stopping by the towering Tour Charlemagne. Peek into the Passage du Cœur Navré, a narrow medieval alleyway that locals love for its quiet, slightly spooky history away from the tourist buzz. Visit Place Plumereau before 10:00 AM if you want to photograph the beautiful facades without the massive crowds, as the nearest transit hub, Porte de Loire, brings throngs of visitors by midday.
- Pro: You are surrounded by unmatched charm and the best historic attractions.
- Con: The cobbled streets can get incredibly noisy at night, so request a courtyard-facing room in local guesthouses.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for culture and history; skip if you prefer a quiet, modern neighborhood away from tourist crowds.
Best Hotels in Vieux-Tours
💎 Luxury hotels
- Le Baleschoux — A modern and stylish apartment offering premium comfort in a central location.
- Maison d'architecte centre Tours — A warm and cozy bed and breakfast providing a personalized, home-like experience.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Mondial — A comfortable, centrally located hotel offering convenient access to historic sights and local restaurants.
- Hotel Berthelot — A quiet, budget-friendly option providing clean, essential accommodations in the heart of Tours.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Charmant Studio dans le Vieux Tours — A delightful, fully-equipped studio apartment located directly in the atmospheric medieval quarter.
2. Quartier des Halles: The Vibrant Heart of Your Holiday
Bohemian, vibrant, and incredibly appetizing, this neighborhood is the undisputed gastronomic center of the city. You can easily sample local delicacies, grab a glass of local wine, and enjoy a lively, upscale residential vibe. It is a great place to entertain your palate after exploring the wider Touraine landscape.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Shop for fresh rillettes at Les Halles de Tours, stroll past the bustling outdoor market at Place de la Résistance, and walk along Rue des Halles to browse boutique shops. Check out the Place de Châteauneuf, a scenic local treasure where residents gather for an evening apéritif under the shadow of the nearby basilica. The Halles tram station makes navigating this area incredibly leisurely, though early morning is the best time to visit the market stalls for the freshest local produce.
- Pro: Immediate access to the finest food markets and top-tier restaurants.
- Con: Parking is limited and expensive, but the city center is highly walkable and well-connected by tram.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for nightlife and gastronomy; skip if you are traveling with a car and need easy, cheap parking.
Best Hotels in Quartier des Halles
💎 Luxury hotels
- Château Belmont Tours by The Crest Collection — A luxurious historic estate featuring a heated indoor pool, full-service spa, and tranquil landscaped gardens.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Duplex Cinéma Centre Historique Tours — A spacious multi-bedroom duplex apartment ideal for families or small groups wanting to stay in the historic center.
- Grand Appartement Tramway — A convenient, fully equipped apartment offering private parking and immediate access to the local tram line.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Charmante Maison La Source — A charming private townhouse offering a peaceful retreat in the quiet Paul Bert neighborhood.
3. Tours-sur-Loire: A Relaxing Stay in Tours
Relaxed and focused on the water, the riverfront transforms into a vibrant social hub during the warmer months. It is the perfect place to unwind and relax after spending days visiting scattered vineyards in other regions in France. Many nearby luxury hotels also offer a spa or swimming pool to cool off after you cycle the local trails.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Walk across the iconic Pont Wilson, photograph the exterior of the imposing Château de Tours, and soak up the sun at La Guinguette de Tours sur Loire. Locals flock to the small sandy stretches near Île Simon for a quieter picnic spot offering uninterrupted, scenic views of the water. Accessing the riverbanks is easiest via the Anatole France tram stop, and sunset is the absolute best time to catch stunning light reflecting on the Loire.
- Pro: Offers a fun, beach-like atmosphere with live music and outdoor drinking during summer.
- Con: The area is much quieter in winter, so consider staying closer to the downtown core during the colder months.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for summer relaxation and scenic riverfront strolls; skip if visiting in the dead of winter when the riverside venues are mostly closed.
Best Hotels in Tours-sur-Loire
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hilton Garden Inn Tours Centre — Boasts river views, sleek contemporary design, and an excellent on-site restaurant right on the Loire waterfront.
- Séjour de charme au cœur de Tours — A quiet, charming apartment tucked away in a historic building in the very heart of Old Tours.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Le Voltaire — A stylish, modern studio offering comfortable accommodation close to historic sights and lively cafes.
- Logement Quartier Historique de Tours — A well-appointed vacation rental providing authentic local character right in the historic district.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Lovely T2 in the heart of Tours — A bright, comfortable one-bedroom apartment offering a convenient home base near shopping and local dining.
4. Quartier de la Gare: Convenient Base for Châteaux Tours
Modern and incredibly convenient, this bustling area is defined by wide boulevards and impressive civic architecture. It serves as the ultimate transport hub for those wanting to venture out and see the grand châteaux of the Loire Valley. You get unbeatable peace of mind knowing your transit links are right outside your door.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Arrive at the beautiful Gare de Tours, walk down the elegant Boulevard Heurteloup, and marvel at the striking fountains in Place Jean Jaurès. Grab a quick espresso at Le Bateau Ivre, an independent cultural venue that hosts intimate neighborhood arts events just a short walk away. The Gare de Tours tram and bus hub connects you directly to regional transit, making it effortless to plan early morning departures to nearby castles.
- Pro: The best base for taking day trips without needing a rental car.
- Con: It lacks the medieval charm of the older districts, but a quick tram ride will get you to the historic center in five minutes.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for day-trippers and transit convenience; skip if you want immediate immersion in medieval cobblestone charm.
Best Hotels in Quartier de la Gare
💎 Luxury hotels
- Grand Hôtel de Tours — An elegant hotel featuring Art Deco-inspired decor, located directly opposite the central train station.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Best Western Plus l'Artist Hotel — Offers quiet, modern rooms centered around a peaceful interior garden courtyard in downtown Tours.
- LABE Hôtel Tours Centre Gare — A stylish, comfortable apartment offering contemporary amenities and convenient access to local transit.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- L'intemporel — A pleasant, functional one-room apartment situated just a short walk from the main train station.
5. Quartier Cathédrale: Peaceful Heritage near Château de Tours
Elegant and notably quieter than the bustling old town, this district lets you dive deep into the history of the region. The grand architecture and beautifully maintained gardens offer an unforgettable, refined experience. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to stay in a boutique setting surrounded by monumental art.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stand in awe of the towering Tours Cathedral, explore the expansive collections at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and stroll the ancient Roman walls along Rue des Ursulines. Look for the massive Cedar of Lebanon planted in the museum courtyard, a majestic local favorite that provides phenomenal shade during hot summer afternoons. The Cathédrale tram stop drops you right into the neighborhood, making it incredibly accessible for a leisurely afternoon of sightseeing.
- Pro: Incredibly peaceful streets packed with premium cultural sites.
- Con: Nightlife is virtually nonexistent here, so you will need to walk to Place Plumereau for evening drinks.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for museum lovers, couples, and quiet history seekers; skip if you want lively nightlife right outside your door.
Best Hotels in Quartier Cathédrale
💎 Luxury hotels
- La Maison Jules — An elegant 19th-century boutique bed and breakfast featuring opulent rooms and a private garden.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hôtel Linxa — A straightforward, welcoming hotel providing clean rooms and easy access to local avenues.
- Hôtel du Manoir — Set in a charming 19th-century building, offering comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere near the cathedral.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Studio avec Balcon & Parking Gratuit — A cozy studio featuring a private balcony and free parking, conveniently located near the train station.
6. Prébendes: A Leafy Domaine-Like Retreat
A highly residential neighborhood that feels like a private sanctuary away from the tourist crowds. It is centered around a sprawling public jardin that provides a tranquil, family-friendly environment. If you want a slice of authentic, everyday French life, this beautiful city district is an absolute treasure.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Wander the curved pathways of the Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé, stroll down the tree-lined Avenue de Grammont, and admire the upscale townhouses on Rue Roger Salengro. Cross the small picturesque wooden bridges within the park to find the local Kiosque à musique, where residents often gather for impromptu weekend concerts. The Liberté tram stop is your best entry point, and late afternoon is ideal for catching golden-hour sunlight filtering through the park’s rare tree species.
- Pro: Vast green spaces perfect for a morning run or walking with children.
- Con: It is a residential area with fewer dining options, though the nearby Avenue de Grammont has plenty of casual brasseries.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for families and a relaxed residential vibe; skip if you prefer being in the immediate center of the dining and shopping action.
Best Hotels in Prébendes
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Mirabeau — A charming boutique-style hotel offering comfortable, colorful rooms and a shaded courtyard terrace.
- Les Beaux Jours — A stylish guesthouse providing bright, welcoming accommodations and a pleasant garden area.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Joli Appartement Le Gutenberg — A bright one-bedroom apartment situated in the quiet Mirabeau district, within walking distance of the train station.
FAQ
What is the best area in Tours for first-time visitors?
The historic center, specifically Vieux-Tours, is the ideal base for first-time visitors. It places you within immediate walking distance of major sites like Place Plumereau, excellent restaurants, and beautiful medieval architecture.
How many days do you need in Tours to see the highlights?
Two to three days is perfect to explore the main city center, visit the museums, and enjoy the local gastronomy. If you plan to use the city as a base for exploring the wider Loire Valley vineyards and castles, consider extending your stay to five days.
Where should you stay in Tours to explore the Loire Valley without a car?
Quartier de la Gare is the most strategic neighborhood for travelers relying on public transport. Staying near the train station gives you instant access to regional trains and bus lines heading to famous castles like Chenonceau and Amboise.
How can you best explore Tours’ historic center?
The absolute best way to experience the older districts is on foot. The narrow, cobbled streets around the basilica and cathedral are mostly pedestrianized, making a leisurely walking tour the most enjoyable and practical approach.
What is the best way to get around Tours and the surrounding region?
Within the city, the modern tram network is highly efficient, connecting all major neighborhoods seamlessly. For regional exploration, renting a bike to ride the famous Loire à Vélo trails or utilizing the comprehensive train network are both fantastic options.
