DAY TRIP: TOURS
On a gloomy Thursday I took the train to Tours, a city in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. In the 1st century AD, it bore the tongue-tying name of “Caesarodunum” (hill of Caesar), as the city was part of the Roman Empire. However, in the 4th century, the city’s Gallic name of Turones was reintroduced, and subsequently shortened to what we know today as “Tours.” The journey by train from Paris lasted just over an hour, which allows for the perfect day trip to Tours. If you have never been to this city and want to hit the highlights, read on!
From the train station, walk to la Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, a Roman Catholic church. Though its style is mainly gothic, there are other styles throughout, as the existing cathedral took hundreds of years to build, starting in 1270 and opening its doors in 1547. It was raining when I entered the church at about 9am, and it was completely empty. The close of the door behind me shut out the sound of the rain, and only silence hung in the air. It was quite peaceful!
la Cathédrale Saint-Gatien (when the rain cleared out!)
Right next door is the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours, or the Fine Arts Museum of Tours. I must confess that since discovering the Fine Arts Museum of Rouen, no other fine arts museum (outside of Paris) has lived up to that of Rouen, but it is still nice.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
Then walk about 15/20 minutes to Le Mastroquet, a restaurant in a house from hundreds of years ago. The staff is extremely kind and the food is outstanding. There is no website for this restaurant, with its ever-changing menu. I myself received a little chalkboard for my table with the menu of the day! Then walk around Vieux Tours, the Old Town of the city. I must admit I found places like Tour Charlemagne and Tour de l’Horloge to be underwhelming, but I did very much enjoy Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours.
Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours
Next, make your way to the Château de Tours, a castle from the 11th century. The castle’s interior is completely empty by design, as exhibitions are displayed inside throughout the year. When you visit, you might see paintings, photographs, art installations, or even sculptures. Check their website for the most up to date information.
Château de Tours
As you make your way back to the train station (perhaps grabbing orangettes from La Chocolatière…) stop off in front of the Hôtel de Ville, or the Town Hall of Tours. The surrounding area has a lot of shops, benches, and fountains, and is teaming with life! Enjoy Tours!
Town Hall
