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What to do in Tours? A day trip from Blois
Add a day in Tours to your Loire Valley stay, then return to sleep in Blois. Plan return transport before choosing visits: a city excursion and a cycling stage need different programmes.
Updated 4 October 2026 · Editorial team: Découvrir Blois
Stroll through Vieux Tours
Plan a walk in the historic centre and around place Plumereau. Allow time to admire the façades and take a break rather than racing through the city. The Tours tourist office offers ideas and guided tours to help you explore further.
Choose a cultural visit
Saint-Gatien Cathedral could be one stop on your walk. To round off the day, look at the museums and cultural sites featured by the tourist office. Choose according to your interests and check opening times; avoid booking too many visits for a single excursion.
Enjoy the Loire and local outings
Depending on the season and your plans, consider a walk by the Loire, a bike ride or a boat trip with a local provider. The tourist office also features food and wine experiences. Check availability and meeting points before booking.
Leave Blois and return in the evening
For a day trip, check trains between Blois and Tours for your date and choose the return journey before booking visits. If driving, find parking. If you want to cycle between the cities, plan a trip in stages: this guide does not present the return cycle journey as a short day ride.
What about the châteaux near Tours?
The tourist office offers excursions and activities around the châteaux of Touraine. Allow another day if you want to combine several visits: exploring Tours and heading out to the châteaux requires time for travel. Check whether the excursion departs from Tours and how to reach its meeting point from Blois.
Practical questions
Can I visit Tours during a stay in Blois?
Yes, by planning an excursion with suitable return transport. Check timetables for your date before organising the day.
Where can I book a guided tour or excursion around Tours?
Consult the Tours tourist office for visits, half-day outings and full-day excursions.
A place to stay
Discover Hôtel Le Monarque.
Check rooms and availability directly with the hotel in central Blois.
View rooms in Blois ↗Sources and information to check
Check opening hours, prices and conditions on official websites before your visit.