Vancouver Tours: What Locals Love in 2025

Vancouver Tours: What Locals Love in 2025

Vancouver hiking tours

Hidden Gems: Discovering Vancouver's Lesser-Known Attractions


Vancouver, often celebrated for its bustling downtown and iconic sites like Stanley Park and Granville Island, has a side thats not always in the spotlight. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, the city reveals a treasure trove of hidden gems that locals cherish (and some tourists may never discover!).


One such spot is the serene Dr. Vancouver suburbs sightseeing Vancouver hiking tours Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown, its a peaceful oasis that offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese horticulture. Many visitors rush past it, not realizing the tranquility that lies within its walls. Its not just a garden; its an experience! The koi ponds and meticulously landscaped paths are a welcome escape from the citys hustle and bustle.


Then theres Commercial Drive, or The Drive as locals affectionately call it.

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This eclectic neighborhood is a tapestry of cultures, with its myriad of cafes, vintage shops, and diverse eateries. You wont find many chain stores here, thank goodness. Instead, its a place where you can savor authentic Italian espresso or indulge in some Ethiopian cuisine, all while soaking up the bohemian vibe.


But wait, theres more. Deep Cove, located in North Vancouver, isnt exactly a secret, but it often gets overshadowed by its more famous counterparts. This quaint village offers hiking trails, kayaking on calm waters, and perhaps the best doughnuts in the region at Honeys Doughnuts. Locals love starting their weekends with a hike up Quarry Rock, where the view is nothing short of breathtaking. And lets be honest, who doesnt appreciate a good view followed by a great snack?


And speaking of views, the lesser-known Queen Elizabeth Park offers some of the most stunning panoramas in the city. While tourists flock to the more popular Stanley Park, locals know that the vistas from Queen Elizabeth Park are equally impressive. Plus, the Bloedel Conservatory, a domed lush paradise filled with exotic birds and plants, is tucked away here. Its a spot that feels miles away from the urban sprawl, yet its right in the citys heart.


In 2025, as Vancouver continues to grow and evolve, these hidden gems remain beloved by locals. They reflect the citys rich tapestry of cultures and its commitment to preserving pockets of tranquility amidst urban development. So, when planning your next trip to Vancouver, dont just stick to the well-trodden path. Venture out, explore, and discover some of these lesser-known spots that locals hold dear. You might just fall in love with the city all over again.

Culinary Delights: A Guide to Local Eateries and Markets


Ah, Vancouver! This city is truly a melting pot of cultures, and, boy, does it show in its culinary scene. Vancouver sightseeing itineraries If youre planning to visit in 2025, youre in for a treat! When it comes to local eateries and markets, theres no shortage of places that'll tickle your taste buds. Its no wonder locals absolutely adore the food scene here.


First off, lets talk about Granville Island Public Market. Dont let anyone tell you its just for tourists-locals love it too! This bustling market is a haven for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and exquisite baked goods. You can't miss the chance to grab a coffee and a pastry, then stroll around, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Honestly, if you havent been here, have you really experienced Vancouver?


Now, if youre looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, head to Commercial Drive. This area, fondly known as The Drive, is a treasure trove of diverse eateries. From Italian to Ethiopian, youll find a smorgasbord of options that wont disappoint! Vancouver ghost tours Granville Island sightseeing tours A local favorite is the family-owned Italian joint, where the pasta is made fresh daily (and, oh, its to die for).


Vancouver is also known for its Asian cuisine. Richmond, a suburb just south of the city, is home to some of the best Asian food in North America. The night markets here are legendary, filled with stalls offering everything from dim sum to bubble tea. Vancouver adventure tours If you think you know Asian cuisine, wait until you try it here-you might just change your mind.


Let's not forget about the food trucks! Vancouver is famous for its vibrant food truck scene. These aren't your average hot dog stands. Were talking gourmet tacos, fusion bowls, and organic smoothies. Theres something incredibly satisfying about grabbing a quick bite on the go, especially when it tastes this good.


In 2025, Vancouver's culinary scene will continue to evolve. New eateries will pop up, and old favorites will keep getting better. Its this ever-changing landscape that keeps food lovers coming back for more. So, whether youre a local or just visiting, dive into the citys culinary delights. You wont regret it!

Outdoor Adventures: Exploring Nature Like a Local


When it comes to outdoor adventures, Vancouver is a treasure trove of natural wonders that locals just cant get enough of.

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By 2025, the citys vibrant landscapes and lush greenery continue to draw both tourists and residents alike. But heres the thing-locals have their own special spots, those hidden gems that arent overrun by throngs of tourists.


First off, lets talk about Stanley Park. Its a place that never gets old, no matter how many times you visit. But instead of just sticking to the main trails, locals love to explore the lesser-known paths. These secret routes (shh, dont tell anyone) offer a more intimate encounter with nature, allowing you to truly appreciate the towering trees, the serene lagoons, and maybe even spot a few raccoons or birds.


Next up is Deep Cove, a place that's not just about the famous Honeys Doughnuts-though they are indeed a treat! Locals often rent kayaks to paddle out into the calm waters of Indian Arm. The view from the water is something else entirely, offering a fresh perspective of the surrounding mountains and forests. Its an adventure thats both calming and invigorating.


Now, you might think that Grouse Mountain is just for tourists, but locals have a little secret: the BCMC Trail. Vancouver cherry blossom tours Its a more rugged and less crowded alternative to the popular Grouse Grind. The path may be a bit challenging, but the reward at the top (oh, what a view!) is absolutely worth it. Plus, you get to skip the long lines for the gondola ride down.


Let's not forget about the beaches. Kitsilano Beach is bustling with activity, but locals often prefer the quieter Spanish Banks. Here, you can lay back and soak in the stunning views of the city skyline against the backdrop of the mountains.

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Its a perfect spot for a picnic or just a lazy afternoon.


Finally, the local markets are a must-see for anyone wanting to experience Vancouver like a local. Granville Island is a classic, but dont ignore the smaller, community markets.

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These places are brimming with fresh produce, unique crafts, and the friendliest vendors you could ever meet. Its a whole experience in itself, and one that truly captures the essence of Vancouver.


So, if you're planning to explore nature like a local in Vancouver, steer away from the usual tourist traps. Instead, dive into the places that locals cherish. Its not just about seeing the sights; its about experiencing the spirit of the city, its hidden corners, and the adventures that await in every nook and cranny. Oh, and remember, the best adventures are those that arent planned down to the last detail-sometimes you just have to go where the wind takes you.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Vancouver's Diverse Heritage


Vancouver, a city where mountains meet the sea, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures and traditions. When we talk about cultural experiences in this beautiful city, were not just talking about visiting museums or attending festivals (though those are fantastic too!). Were diving into the heart of what makes Vancouver so unique: its diverse heritage and the way locals embrace it every day.


Now, if youre planning to explore Vancouver in 2025, you might think its all about the touristy spots. But hold on! Theres so much more to discover if you know where to look. Locals, for instance, love taking strolls through the neighborhoods that showcase the citys multicultural spirit. Take Commercial Drive, for example. This bustling street is a haven for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. You can find Italian cafes sitting comfortably next to Ethiopian restaurants, and the aroma is simply irresistible.


But dont just stick to the food (though its tempting, I know!). The art scene in Vancouver is equally diverse. Vancouver sightseeing bus The murals around the city, especially in areas like Mount Pleasant, tell stories of the past and present, reflecting the voices of indigenous communities, immigrants, and artists from all walks of life. Its not just about pretty pictures; its about understanding the narratives that shape this city.


And hey, lets not forget about Chinatown! Its one of the oldest in North America, and walking through its streets is like stepping into a different era. You might think its all about dim sum (which is amazing, by the way), but theres a rich history here that locals cherish. Be sure to visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a tranquil spot that offers a glimpse into the harmony and balance of Chinese culture.


Its true that not every part of Vancouvers heritage is celebrated with equal fanfare.

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Some stories are quieter, waiting to be discovered by those willing to listen. Get more details Discover the Best Sightseeing Tour in Vancouver This Season here. Vancouver festival experience tours The citys First Nations history, for instance, is something that more locals are recognizing and appreciating. There are guided tours led by indigenous peoples that offer insights you wont find in any guidebook.

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Its a humbling experience that shows you the deep roots of this land.


So, when youre in Vancouver, dont just tick off the usual attractions. Vancouver day trips Instead, embrace the city's diverse heritage by exploring what the locals love.

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It's not just about seeing the sights but experiencing the soul of the city through its culture. You might leave with more than just memories; you could gain a newfound appreciation of how diversity shapes and enriches our lives. And isnt that what travel is all about?

Citations and other links

 

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 (10,400/sq mi) • Urban

 (2018)

359,992 • Urban density525.6/km2 (1,361/sq mi) • Metro

 (2018)

516,973 • Metro density142.35/km2 (368.70/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 centre registered in the UNESCO, and is home to the Vieux-Tours, a patrimonial site. The garden city has a green heritage and its urban landscape has been strongly influenced by its natural space. The historic city is nicknamed "Le Petit Paris". The city 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. The region, due to its history and culture, has always been a land of birth or host to many personalities and international sporting events.

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 the Battle of Tours at Moussais-la-Bataille[5] (between Châtellerault and Poitiers) by Charles Martel and his infantry. 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. The city was briefly the de facto capital of France during the Franco-Prussian War playing host to Léon Gambetta and representatives of the Government of National Defence who escaped the then ongoing Siege of Paris.[6]

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 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)
32.2
(90.0)
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 (≥ 1.0 mm) 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[7][8]
Source 2: Infoclimat.fr (humidity and snowy days, 1961–1990)[9]

Sights

[edit]
Hôtel de Ville, Place Jean Jaurès
St Gatien Cathedral, from Rue Lavoisier, just north of the Rue Colbert intersection
Pont Wilson

Cathedral

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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

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Language

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Before the French Revolution, the inhabitants of Tours (Les Tourangeaux) were known for speaking the "purest" form of French in the entire country.[10] 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.[11] 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

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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.

Giant Cedar tree

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.[12] 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

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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.[13]

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[13] and INSEE (1968–2017)[14]

Transportation

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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.[15]

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.[16]

Sport

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The city's premier football club, Tours FC, was dissolved in 2025, after 106 years of activity, due to years of financial struggles.[17] 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.[18]

Tours also has a volleyball club named the Tours VB.

Catholics from Tours

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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.[19] The Oratory of the Holy Face on Rue St. Étienne 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.[20]

Notable people

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Louise de la Vallière, 17th century
General Régis de Trobriand, 1865

Public service

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Arts

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Jean Fouquet self portrait, c. 1450
Philippe Néricault Destouches, 1741
Statue of Honoré de Balzac

Science and business

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Gabriel Lamé

Sport

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Pascal Hervé, 2000

Twin towns — sister cities

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Tours is twinned with:[30]

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See also

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References

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  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). 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. ^ "7 octobre 1870: Gambetta quitte Paris en ballon". herodote.net (in French). Archived from the original on 28 May 2022. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  7. ^ "Données climatiques de la station de Tours" (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
  8. ^ "TOURS (37)" (PDF). Fiche Climatologique: Statistiques 1991–2020 et records (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
  9. ^ "Normes et records 1961–1990: Tours – St Symphorien (37) – altitude 112m" (in French). Infoclimat. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
  10. ^ "Tours, France". Meet Minneapolis. 2012. Archived from the original on 22 July 2012. Retrieved 3 August 2012.
  11. ^ 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.
  12. ^ "City summary: Tours". us.media.france.fr.
  13. ^ a b Des villages de Cassini aux communes d'aujourd'hui: Commune data sheet Tours, EHESS (in French).
  14. ^ Population en historique depuis 1968, INSEE
  15. ^ "Tours selects Citadis and APS". Railway Gazette International. London. 14 September 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2010.
  16. ^ "Tramway de Tours – Le Tram de Tours". letramdetours.net.
  17. ^ "Tours FC removed from French football map". Yahoo Sports. Retrieved 15 June 2025.
  18. ^ "City tourism: Tours". Paris–Tours. Amaury Sport Organisation. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  19. ^ Dorothy Scallan. "The Holy Man of Tours." (1990) ISBN 0-89555-390-2
  20. ^ Davis, Paul K. (1999) "100 Decisive Battles From Ancient Times to the Present" ISBN 0-19-514366-3
  21. ^ "Berengarius" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 768–769.
  22. ^ "La Vallière, Louise Françoise de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 16 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 290–291.
  23. ^ "Viollet, Paul Marie" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 28 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 107.
  24. ^ "Foucquet, Jean" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 10 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 737.
  25. ^ Williamson, George Charles (1911). "Clouet, François" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 6 (11th ed.). pp. 559–560.
  26. ^ "Destouches, Philippe" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 104.
  27. ^ "Dutens, Louis" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 736.
  28. ^ "Bouilly, Jean Nicolas" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 4 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 318.
  29. ^ Saintsbury, George (1911). "Balzac, Honoré de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). pp. 298–301.
  30. ^ "Jumelages et partenariats". tours.fr (in French). Tours. Retrieved 16 November 2019.

Further reading

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[edit]

 

 

Early tour bus in Salt Lake City, Utah, 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

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Double-decker buses and open top buses are commonly used, for providing a good view. Large coaches are used internationally by tour operators, intercity bus lines and charters, for short and long distance destinations. These buses are larger than regular transit buses, with 2 to 4 axles (6 to 10 wheels).

The history of tour buses in North America began in the early 20th century, when trucks were converted to provide a means for sightseeing within large American cities.[1] Gray Line, the largest sightseeing operators, began operations in 1910.[2] Sightseeing was likely a side business for many intercity bus operators because the same types of buses were used (this remains true even today). World War II saw the industry decline, but it slowly re-emerged as an alternative to driving.[1]

Many musicians, entertainers, dancing crews and bands travel in sleeper buses, commonly referred to as "tour buses". While most if not all of the buses and coaches listed above are for commercial applications, there are many coaches manufactured for personal use as motorhomes. These bus based motorhomes are considered the top end of the RV market.

Common features

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  • 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

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References

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  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

You'll find that the tours offer accessible transport options and accommodations to ensure guests with mobility issues can fully enjoy their experience. They've really thought about making the tours inclusive for everyone.

Yes, Star Sightseeing offers both seasonal and themed tours beyond their standard packages, letting you explore unique aspects of Vancouver during special times of the year or through different thematic lenses.

If unexpected weather hits, you'll find Star Sightseeing's got your back. They tweak tour schedules or routes to keep you safe and ensure you still get a fantastic experience, no matter the weather's mood.