Gare de Tours
Gare de Tours: Your authentic French railway hub, connecting you to the heart of the Loire Valley's wine country and historic châteaux.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother travel.
Gare de Tours
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother travel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gare de Tours: Your authentic French railway hub, connecting you to the heart of the Loire Valley's wine country and historic châteaux.
"A beautiful place in the middle of some of the best wine country in France.
"Learn Basic French Phrases
Essential for smoother interactions, as English isn't always widely spoken. :speech_balloon:
Plan Your Local Transport
Public transport is limited; research routes and schedules beforehand. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gateway to Loire Valley Châteaux
Gare de Tours
Your starting point for exploring magnificent French castles like Château de Chambord.

Authentic French Station Design
Gare de Tours
Experience the charm of an authentic, historic train station architecture.

Wine Country Access
Gare de Tours
Conveniently located for exploring the renowned wine regions of France.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Tours: Language & Transport
Train Travel & Strikes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
I am a new tour guide - what makes a good tour?
Learn Basic French Phrases
Essential for smoother interactions, as English isn't always widely spoken.
:speech_balloon:Plan Your Local Transport
Public transport is limited; research routes and schedules beforehand.
:bus:tips for first bus tour
Check for Strikes
Be aware of potential transport strikes that can affect train services.
:warning:Utilize Free WiFi
Stay connected while waiting for your train with the station's free WiFi.
:wifi:Tips
from all over the internet
Learn Basic French Phrases
Essential for smoother interactions, as English isn't always widely spoken.
:speech_balloon:Plan Your Local Transport
Public transport is limited; research routes and schedules beforehand.
:bus:Check for Strikes
Be aware of potential transport strikes that can affect train services.
:warning:Utilize Free WiFi
Stay connected while waiting for your train with the station's free WiFi.
:wifi:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gare de Tours is appreciated as a convenient and authentic French train station, serving as a vital hub for exploring the beautiful Loire Valley and its wine country. While generally efficient, visitors should be mindful of potential language barriers and the possibility of transport strikes.
"Beautiful place in the middle of some of the best wine country in France. Easy to get to and through via a combination of public transportation and walking. Don't forget the historic sites."
Eliot Fendig
"Une ville magnifique! I liked exploring here but it is challenging if you don’t speak French. (I speak Spanish and English so it was hard)... also the transportation around here is limited so plan accordingly. Over all, I hope to come back when my French has improved!"
ekeely
"Free WiFi is nice while waiting on the trains! We came in May 2018 and the strikes made this station terrible though. I hope France figures this strike situation out soon!"
Kyle D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gare de Tours is the main train station in Tours, France. It's well-connected by national rail services. You can also reach it via local buses and taxis.
The station is generally straightforward to navigate for train departures and arrivals. Signage is usually in French and English.
Yes, Gare de Tours offers frequent train services to Paris, including high-speed TGV trains, making it a convenient departure point.
From Gare de Tours, you can catch trains to various destinations, including Paris and other cities. Local buses and taxis are also available for travel within Tours.
The journey to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) from Gare de Tours typically involves one or two train changes and takes approximately 2 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Train tickets can be purchased online via the SNCF website or app, at ticket machines within the station, or at the ticket counter.
Gare de Tours operates 24/7 for train services, though ticket offices and waiting areas may have specific opening hours.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for TGV services and during peak travel times, to secure better prices and availability.
There are no entrance fees to access Gare de Tours itself; you only need a valid ticket for your train journey.
Train ticket prices from Tours to Paris vary depending on the time of booking, train type, and class of travel, but can range from €20 to €70 or more.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Gare de Tours offers amenities such as free WiFi, restrooms, waiting areas, and typically a few shops and cafes.
Yes, Gare de Tours provides free WiFi access for travelers waiting for their trains.
While options might be limited, you can usually find cafes or snack bars within Gare de Tours for quick bites.
Departure boards display train times and platform numbers. Listen for announcements and follow the signage within the station.
Luggage storage facilities may be available, but it's best to check with the station information desk or SNCF for current availability and pricing.
📸 📸 Photography
The station's authentic architecture offers good photo opportunities. Consider capturing the facade, interior concourse, and train platforms.
Generally, personal photography is permitted inside train stations for non-commercial purposes. Be mindful of other travelers.
You can capture architectural details, the hustle and bustle of travelers, and the trains themselves, offering a glimpse into French rail travel.
Avoid using tripods or professional lighting equipment without prior permission, as this may be restricted.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Loire Valley from Gare de Tours
When planning your excursions, consider that while the station is a hub, local transportation to specific châteaux might require further arrangements, such as local buses, taxis, or pre-booked tours. The ease of access to the wine country from Tours also makes it an attractive base for oenophiles. Remember to check train schedules and book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the historical and viticultural treasures of the Loire Valley.
Navigating Train Travel in France
One significant aspect of train travel in France is the possibility of transport strikes. These can cause significant disruptions, so it's crucial to stay informed about potential strikes leading up to and during your travel dates. Checking the SNCF website or local news outlets for strike information is a wise precaution. Additionally, while many station staff speak some English, having a few basic French phrases can greatly assist in communication, especially in smaller stations or during busy periods.
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