Old Tours : info and guided tour

Introduction to Vieux Tours

Vieux Tours refers to the historic center of the city of Tours, set around the Vieux-Tours district and its medieval streets. Located near the Jard Saint-Pierre-le-Puellier, it contains part of the city’s historical heritage, with an old urban fabric that contrasts with the city’s newer neighborhoods.

The area retains an atmosphere shaped by the history of Tours, long a city of trade and a stop along the Loire. Its narrow lanes, half-timbered facades, and old houses bear witness to an ancient urban development, even though the whole area has been altered over the centuries. It is this blend that gives it its heritage value.

Among the most remarkable features are Place Plumereau, one of the best-known images of Vieux Tours, as well as several half-timbered houses and restored old buildings. The district is also appreciated for its views of churches, inner courtyards, and architectural details that recall the medieval and Renaissance past of the city.

Vieux Tours is famous for its lively atmosphere, its built heritage, and its central role in discovering Tours on foot. It clearly shows the continuity between urban history, traditional architecture, and contemporary life in the city center, making it a must-see stop for understanding the identity of the Touraine city.

Discover Tours with a private guide

A private guide can help you read Vieux Tours differently by providing insight into the district’s development, its old buildings, and its place in the history of Tours. The visit becomes clearer and richer, with explanations tailored to the architectural details and the local context.