Touring Tours, France, offers a fantastic opportunity for food and wine lovers. The city’s rich culinary scene is on full display with a variety of tours that showcase local wines, cheeses, and regional specialties. One reason Tours stands out is its proximity to the Loire Valley, one of France’s premier wine regions, making wine tours like the Morning – Loire Valley Wine Tour & Food Pairing, Vouvray an irresistible choice. The city also boasts vibrant gourmet food walks, perfect for those looking to explore historic streets and sample authentic regional fare. We particularly like how these tours blend education with tactile tasting experiences, giving travelers a true taste of the region.
In this guide, we’ll highlight two of the best food tours in Tours: a wine-focused experience and a city-based gourmet food walk. Whether you’re here for a quick half-day or a more immersive culinary adventure, these options provide a well-rounded view of what local Tours food culture has to offer.
Types of Tours Covered
Our top picks include a wine and food pairing tour in Vouvray that explores two local wineries (Details here), and a Gourmet Food Tour around Tours’ historic streets that samples regional specialties (Details here). Both provide a blend of authentic tasting, cultural exploration, and expert guidance, catering to different interests and schedules.
1. Morning – Loire Valley Wine Tour & Food Pairing, Vouvray
This 3.5-hour guided tour is a must for anyone wanting a solid introduction to Loire Valley wines. Starting at the Tourist Office in Tours, the tour takes you to two distinctive wine estates, including a vineyard and cellar, where you’ll see how the local wines are made. The highlight is the extensive tastings, which include at least five different wines such as sparkling and still white wines from Vouvray—known worldwide for its crisp, flavorful Chenin Blanc.
What sets this experience apart is the focus on local terroir—your guide, a regional wine expert, explains how soil and vine work influence taste, making each sip more meaningful. The tour also pairs cheese samples and local delicacies with your tastings, elevating the experience beyond just drinking wine.
Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and the intimate, relaxed atmosphere. One reviewer called Alycea “extremely knowledgeable and clear,” emphasizing how much she enhanced the experience. The tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting an authentic taste of Loire wines without the fuss.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-structured, informative wine tasting with expert insights and regional food pairings, this tour offers exceptional value for $145.36. It’s especially suited for those eager to learn about vineyard processes and regional wine varietals.
2. Lunchtime Food Tour of Tours
For those who prefer a city stroll combined with tasting authentic regional specialties, the Lunchtime Food Tour of Tours is a fantastic choice. Lasting about 2.5 hours, it begins in Place Plumereau, a lively area known for its medieval charm. The tour weaves through historic alleys to reveal hidden culinary gems, with the perfect blend of food, history, and local stories.
Participants sample a wide variety of regional treats, including Nougat de Tours, Sainte-Maure cheese, rillettes, chocolates, and local wines. The guide brings the city’s culture alive, offering insights that enrich each bite. The tour’s small size ensures a relaxed, personal experience, and many reviews mention the lively, entertaining guide. One reviewer called it “a relaxed and enjoyable time with lots to eat and drink.”
While not as wine-focused as the previous tour, this experience is ideal for gourmet explorers who want to taste a broad spectrum of local flavors in an engaging setting. The price point of around $106.72 makes it an accessible way to indulge without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers eager to explore Tours’ culinary scene and historic streets in one go. It offers a great mix of local specialties and storytelling at a reasonable price.
3. How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re passionate about wine and want to learn about vineyard work and terroir, the Loire Valley Wine Tour is unbeatable for its in-depth tasting and expert guides. It’s best for those who enjoy structured, educational experiences and have a few hours to spare.
On the other hand, if your goal is to learn about Tours’ food culture and explore city streets filled with local flavors, the Lunchtime Food Tour offers a lively, relaxed walk through the city’s culinary highlights. It’s ideal for travelers who want a broader taste of regional specialties without a focus solely on wine.
For those with limited time, these tours can be combined or chosen based on your interests. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.
4. Final Thoughts
Tours offers a variety of memorable food experiences, from wine tasting in scenic vineyards to gourmet city explorations. If you’re looking for an immersive wine experience with expert guidance and regional delicacies, the Loire Valley Wine Tour is a top choice. For a lively, flavor-packed walk through Tours’ historic streets, the Gourmet Food Tour provides a delightful way to taste local specialties.
Both tours cater to different tastes and schedules, ensuring every visitor can find a memorable way to enjoy the region’s rich culinary offerings. To make the most of your trip, consider booking these experiences early—especially during busy months—to secure your spot. No matter which you pick, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Tours’ delicious local products.
Happy eating and drinking in Tours!
