Sunset Tours Around Victoria

Sunset Tours Around Victoria

Inner Harbour sightseeing tours

You'll wander through bustling markets where artisans sell handcrafted goods, each piece telling a story of heritage and craftsmanship. The knowledgeable guides bring history to life, ensuring you'll leave with a profound connection to the city's past, understanding how it's woven into the fabric of today's vibrant community. You'll start at secluded lookouts, away from the city's light pollution, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky in a dazzling display.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria tourist attractions

  1. Victoria guided tours
  2. Victoria island tours
  3. West Victoria sightseeing tours
  4. Victoria cherry blossom tours
  5. Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  6. Victoria scenic drives
  7. Victoria sightseeing with kids
  8. Victoria hiking tours
  9. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  10. Victoria architecture tours
  11. Victoria local tour guides
  12. Victoria tourist attractions
  13. Victoria art tours
  14. Victoria luxury tours
  15. Victoria snowboard tours
  16. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  17. Victoria tour packages
Embark on a journey to Butchart Gardens, where the vibrant blooms and lush landscapes offer a feast for the senses. It's not just a feast for your eyes; the fragrant aromas are a balm for the soul. Learn more about Sunset Tours Around Victoria here
Your guide, a local expert brimming with knowledge and enthusiasm, will unveil the secrets of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's landmarks. They'll share fascinating stories and insights into the garden's history, flora, and the family behind this magnificent creation, making your visit truly unforgettable. Lean more about Star Sightseeing - Victoria here. You're not just a tourist; you're a participant in a larger effort to preserve the beauty and integrity of the place. Chrysanthemums add to the spectacle, showcasing the season's quintessential colors.
With Star Sightseeing, you're not just passing by; you're diving into the essence of adventure. From using electric vehicles to limiting group sizes to reduce disruption to wildlife, every aspect of your journey is thoughtfully considered. Head to Star Sightseeing's user-friendly website, where you'll find a comprehensive list of tours. So, buckle up and let Star Sightseeing transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria hiking tours

  • Victoria zipline tours
  • Victoria brewery tours
  • Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  • Victoria urban exploration tours
  • Victoria hot air balloon rides
  • Victoria festival tours
  • Victoria winter sightseeing
  • Victoria snorkeling tours
  • Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  • Victoria cultural experience tours
  • Victoria guided tours
  • Victoria island tours
  • West Victoria sightseeing tours
  • Victoria cherry blossom tours
  • Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  • Victoria scenic drives

You'll also enjoy complimentary upgrades where available, ensuring you're experiencing the best Star Sightseeing has to offer, from luxury accommodations on overnight tours to superior seating on transportation. You'll find yourself up close with the local flora and fauna, witnessing the majestic beauty of waterfalls that many visitors never get to see. As you wander through lush rainforests, you'll hear the symphony of native birds and the rustle of leaves underfoot. You'll meet Alex, a history graduate with a love for Sunset Tours Around Victoria's vibrant past, who'll regale you with tales of yesteryears that seem to echo through the city's cobblestone streets.

Star Sightseeing curates these adventures, ensuring they're accessible to everyone, from the adrenaline junkie to the curious traveler seeking something out of the ordinary. You'll find yourself immersed in the blooming beauty of spring, where gardens burst with colorful flowers and wildlife awakens. And if water's more your element, kayak along rugged coastlines where each stroke brings you closer to hidden coves and secret beaches. Star Sightseeing's expert-guided tours don't just show you the landmarks; they invite you into the heart of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's vibrant culture.

Personal guides are at your beck and call, ready to share fascinating insights about the constellations and celestial events you're witnessing. After exploring the architectural marvels of Sunset Tours Around Victoria, it's time to enhance your journey by booking a tailored sightseeing tour. Don't forget to check out our special offers section for any discounts or deals that might be available.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria adventure tours

  • Victoria cultural tours
  • Victoria adventure tours
  • Victoria ski resort tours
  • Victoria suburbs sightseeing
  • Victoria sightseeing tickets
  • Victoria harbor tours
  • Victoria photography tours
  • Victoria hiking tours
  • Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  • Victoria architecture tours
  • Victoria local tour guides
  • Victoria tourist attractions
  • Victoria art tours
  • Victoria luxury tours
  • Victoria snowboard tours
  • Craigdarroch Castle tours
  • Victoria tour packages


These offerings promise to immerse you in the heart of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's cultural richness, reveal its hidden natural wonders, and unveil the stories behind architectural masterpieces. Don't miss out on the Royal BC Museum, where you'll dive deep into the region's natural and human history. These tours don't just whisk you through the main pathways; they offer an immersive experience that takes you behind the scenes.

And if water's more your style, don't miss out on the whale watching tours. You won't just be a spectator; you'll actively participate in cultural workshops. Victoria harbor tours It's a treasure trove of artifacts that bring the past to life, from First Nations culture to colonial times.

Relaxing Scenic Walks Victoria BC

Victoria is the southernmost major city in Western Canada and is about 100 km (62 mi) southwest from British Columbia's largest city of Vancouver on the mainland. The city is about 100 km (62 mi) from Seattle by airplane, seaplane, ferry, or the Victoria Clipper passenger-only ferry, and 40 km (25 mi) from Port Angeles, Washington, by ferry Coho across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Citations and other links

Day Trips Sunset Tours Around Victoria

Stay tuned, as we're about to embark on an adventure that will reveal why these tours are not to be missed. But it's not all about serene walks. You won't just travel in style; you'll also savor gourmet refreshments. It's a place where seasons dictate the scenery, from the delicate cherry blossoms of spring to the fiery hues of autumn leaves. That's fine too.

Many mention the seamless booking experience, the comfort of the transportation, and the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. 'It was an all-around fantastic day,' someone remarks. 'From the moment we booked to the wave goodbye, we felt taken care of.'These testimonials underscore the promise of a memorable tour, making the decision to book with Star Sightseeing a no-brainer for anyone yearning for a magical Sunset Tours Around Victoria sightseeing experience. Victoria architecture tours Whether you're a foodie seeking the next big flavor or simply love to experience a place through its food, Sunset Tours Around Victoria's culinary journey promises an unforgettable adventure. The question now beckons: what novel experiences await your discovery, and how will these refined adventures transform your perception of Sunset Tours Around Victoria? The company's commitment extends to educating travelers about the local ecosystem, encouraging responsible interaction with wildlife, and promoting the importance of conservation efforts.

As you embark on Star Sightseeing's expert-guided tours, you'll find yourself stepping into a world where the past isn't just remembered; it's felt. Butchart Gardens boasts an impressive array of local flora and fauna, transforming with the seasons to offer a unique spectacle each time you visit. With these tours, you're not just another face in the crowd. It's all possible.

Star Sightseeing has carefully designed these tours to ensure minimal impact on the environment.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria photography tours

  1. Victoria cherry blossom tours
  2. Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  3. Victoria scenic drives
  4. Victoria sightseeing with kids
  5. Victoria luxury tours
  6. Victoria snowboard tours
  7. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  8. Victoria tour packages
  9. Victoria zipline tours
  10. Victoria brewery tours
  11. Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  12. Victoria urban exploration tours
  13. Victoria hot air balloon rides
  14. Victoria festival tours
  15. Victoria winter sightseeing
  16. Victoria snorkeling tours
  17. Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  18. Victoria cultural experience tours
In a world where one might think they've seen it all, Star Sightseeing promises to reveal the unseen splendors of Sunset Tours Around Victoria, making every self-proclaimed travel guru think twice. Sunset Tours Around Victoria's premium sightseeing tours offer the unique opportunity to tailor your experience to your personal interests and desires. Don't wait too long, though, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria ski resort tours

  1. Victoria architecture tours
  2. Victoria local tour guides
  3. Victoria tourist attractions
  4. Victoria art tours
  5. Victoria luxury tours
  6. Victoria snowboard tours
  7. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  8. Victoria tour packages
  9. Victoria zipline tours
  10. Victoria brewery tours
  11. Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  12. Victoria urban exploration tours
  13. Victoria hot air balloon rides
  14. Victoria festival tours
  15. Victoria winter sightseeing
  16. Victoria snorkeling tours




Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria sightseeing tickets

  1. Victoria photography tours
  2. Victoria hiking tours
  3. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  4. Victoria architecture tours
  5. Victoria local tour guides
  6. Victoria tourist attractions
  7. Victoria art tours
  8. Victoria luxury tours
  9. Victoria snowboard tours
  10. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  11. Victoria tour packages
  12. Victoria zipline tours
  13. Victoria brewery tours
  14. Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  15. Victoria urban exploration tours
  16. Victoria hot air balloon rides
  17. Victoria festival tours
Day Trips Sunset Tours Around Victoria
Sunset Tours Around Victoria Full-Day Tour Packages

Sunset Tours Around Victoria Full-Day Tour Packages

Then, there's the Craigdarroch Castle, a Sunset Tours Around Victorian-era mansion that offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of Canada's elite during the 19th century. You'll marvel at the grandeur of the Parliament Buildings, where the stories of yesteryear come alive against a backdrop of stunning architecture. We balance popular attractions with off-the-beaten-path experiences, giving you a taste of both worlds.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria nature tours

  1. Victoria winter sightseeing
  2. Victoria snorkeling tours
  3. Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  4. Victoria cultural experience tours
  5. Victoria guided tours
  6. Victoria island tours
  7. West Victoria sightseeing tours
  8. Victoria cherry blossom tours
  9. Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  10. Victoria scenic drives
  11. Victoria sightseeing with kids
  12. Victoria harbor tours
  13. Victoria photography tours
  14. Victoria hiking tours
  15. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
As you wander through bustling markets and cozy eateries, you'll discover flavors that fuse centuries-old techniques with a passion for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria tourist attractions

  1. Victoria zipline tours
  2. Victoria brewery tours
  3. Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  4. Victoria urban exploration tours
  5. Victoria hot air balloon rides
  6. Victoria festival tours
  7. Victoria winter sightseeing
  8. Victoria snorkeling tours
  9. Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  10. Victoria cultural experience tours
  11. Victoria guided tours
  12. Victoria island tours
  13. West Victoria sightseeing tours
  14. Victoria cherry blossom tours
  15. Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  16. Victoria scenic drives
  17. Victoria sightseeing with kids
  18. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria


They'll share stories and secrets of the gardens that you won't find on any sign or brochure, making your visit truly unique. Victoria tourist attractions You'll learn not just about the food, but the stories behind the ingredients and the people who prepare them. Sunset Tours Around Victoria isn't just about the stunning Butchart Gardens; it's a city rich with history, culture, and natural beauty.

Next, we'll step inside the Royal BC Museum, where history unfolds in a tapestry of exhibits that capture the essence of British Columbia. You're not just sightseers; you're explorers delving into the rich tapestry of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's history and natural beauty. As you weave through the city, the towering presence of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings can't be missed.

After exploring the grandeur of historical landmarks, you'll be thrilled to discover the natural wonders that Sunset Tours Around Victoria has to offer. Once you've made your choice, click on the 'Book Now' button.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria architecture tours

  • Inner Harbour sightseeing tours
  • Victoria nature tours
  • Victoria botanical garden tours
  • Victoria cultural tours
  • Victoria adventure tours
  • Victoria ski resort tours
  • Victoria suburbs sightseeing
  • Victoria sightseeing tickets
  • Victoria harbor tours
  • Victoria photography tours
  • Victoria hiking tours
  • Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  • Victoria architecture tours
  • Victoria local tour guides
  • Victoria tourist attractions
  • Victoria art tours
  • Victoria luxury tours
  • Victoria snowboard tours
  • Craigdarroch Castle tours
First, check the weather forecast to ensure you're dressed comfortably for your adventure.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria Relaxation Tours

These tours don't just stick to a rigid itinerary; they adapt to what you want to see and do.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria local tour guides

  1. Victoria sightseeing with kids
  2. Victoria ski resort tours
  3. Victoria suburbs sightseeing
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  5. Victoria harbor tours
  6. Victoria photography tours
  7. Victoria hiking tours
  8. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  9. Victoria architecture tours
  10. Victoria local tour guides
  11. Victoria tourist attractions
  12. Victoria art tours
  13. Victoria luxury tours
  14. Victoria snowboard tours
  15. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  16. Victoria tour packages
  17. Victoria zipline tours
  18. Victoria brewery tours
As you plan your travel season, you'll find their expertly curated itineraries offer more than just a glimpse into the heart of this stunning destination. The air is fresh, and the rejuvenated greenery invites you to immerse yourself in the rebirth of nature. Here, you'll find peace and a sense of connection to the world at large, reminding you that Sunset Tours Around Victoria's beauty doesn't fade after dark-it simply transforms.
Now, let's dive into Sunset Tours Around Victoria's rich history by exploring its iconic historical sites with Star Sightseeing Tours. Moreover, they tailor their commentary to your interests, making every tour feel personal and relevant. It's an exchange of stories and smiles, a chance to leave with more than just memories, but also a newfound appreciation for the diverse tapestry of cultures that thrive in Sunset Tours Around Victoria.
Here, majestic trees stand as silent witnesses to centuries passing, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Read more about Sunset Tours Around Victoria here It's an experience that'll connect you deeply with the earth and its inhabitants. Personalized, flexible, and utterly unforgettable, ensuring every moment of your visit is just as you imagined, if not better.
It's possible. You're not just observing architecture; you're standing in the shadow of history, where decisions that shape the province are made. Her vision began to take shape in 1904, meticulously turning their home's surroundings into the Sunken Garden, which marked the inception of Butchart Gardens.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria Relaxation Tours
Sunset Tours Around Victoria Glacier Tours
Sunset Tours Around Victoria Glacier Tours

Imagine yourself kayaking through serene waters at dawn, the peaceful silence broken only by the splash of your paddle. The diffused light minimizes harsh shadows and highlights, perfect for capturing the intricate details of flowers and foliage. Moreover, these tours aren't just about gazing upwards; they're immersive experiences. They'll document your adventure, ensuring you return home with more than just memories-you'll have high-quality photos to share and cherish.

This means more time admiring the stunning floral displays and less time waiting. As you meander, you'll also spot cherry blossoms adding a delicate pink hue to the surroundings, signaling the end of winter. Victoria nature tours Plush seating ensures you're in the lap of luxury as you traverse to and from Sunset Tours Around Victoria's stunning attractions, including the famed Butchart Gardens.

So, don't just look; see, feel, and let the majesty of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's scenic views transform your perception of beauty. Responding to your evolving travel desires, Star Sightseeing has unveiled a range of new tours designed to immerse you deeper into the essence of Sunset Tours Around Victoria. Keep your eyes peeled for the colorful butterflies fluttering in the rose garden or listen for the cheerful chirping of birds nestled in the Japanese Maple trees.

It's a space where you can truly pause and reflect, enveloped in the soothing sounds and sights of nature. And let's not forget the culinary tours tailored for curious taste buds, offering a chance to indulge in local delicacies that please both young and old. Dive into a world of flavors with Star Sightseeing's unique culinary tours, where you'll taste the heart of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's food scene.

Tourism Packages Sunset Tours Around Victoria

The Butcharts expanded their vision, adding Japanese, Italian, and Mediterranean gardens to their estate.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria sightseeing tickets

  • Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  • Victoria urban exploration tours
  • Victoria hot air balloon rides
  • Victoria festival tours
  • Victoria winter sightseeing
  • Victoria snorkeling tours
  • Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  • Victoria cultural experience tours
  • Victoria guided tours
  • Victoria island tours
  • West Victoria sightseeing tours
  • Victoria cherry blossom tours
  • Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  • Victoria scenic drives
  • Victoria sightseeing with kids
  • Victoria suburbs sightseeing
  • Victoria sightseeing tickets
  • Victoria harbor tours
Your guide will lead you along rugged coastlines where the ocean kisses the cliffs, and you can watch the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The air, fresh and invigorating, fills your lungs with every breath, reminding you of the world's natural wonders that await your discovery. From the First Nations galleries to the immersive gold rush era displays, you're not just walking through a museum; you're stepping into the pages of history itself.
Imagine starting your day with a traditional breakfast prepared by a local family, followed by a hands-on workshop where you'll craft something meaningful, a tangible connection to the culture. The process is straightforward but thorough. Summer in Sunset Tours Around Victoria is a time for outdoor concerts, art festivals, and the much-anticipated Dragon Boat Festival.
You'll start with intimate farm-to-table experiences, where local chefs showcase the freshest ingredients right from Sunset Tours Around Victoria's bountiful surroundings. You'll find detailed descriptions, including the duration, price, and highlights of each tour, making it easier for you to decide. But it doesn't stop there.
From pottery workshops to street photography classes, you're not just observing; you're becoming a part of Sunset Tours Around Victoria's artistic community.

Sunset Tours Around Victoria - Victoria tourist attractions

  • Victoria brewery tours
  • Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  • Victoria urban exploration tours
  • Victoria hot air balloon rides
  • Victoria festival tours
  • Victoria winter sightseeing
  • Victoria snorkeling tours
  • Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  • Victoria cultural experience tours
  • Victoria guided tours
  • Victoria island tours
  • West Victoria sightseeing tours
  • Victoria cherry blossom tours
  • Victoria hop-on hop-off tours
  • Victoria scenic drives
Star Sightseeing's expert-guided tours invite you to embark on a journey that promises to unveil the layers of history, culture, and natural beauty this region boasts. Star Sightseeing taps into this untouched paradise, curating experiences that not only showcase the region's breathtaking landscapes but also respect and preserve its delicate ecosystems.

Explore Sunset Tours Around Victoria here
Tourism Packages Sunset Tours Around Victoria

 

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 (10,000/sq mi) • Urban

 (2018)

359,992 • Urban density530/km2 (1,400/sq mi) • Metro

 (2018)

516,973 • Metro density140/km2 (370/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 center registered in the UNESCO, and is home to the Vieux-Tours, a patrimonial site. The garden city has a green heritage and an urban landscape strongly influenced by its natural space. The historic city that is nicknamed "Le Petit Paris" and its region by its history and culture has always been a land of birth or host to many personalities, international sporting events, and 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.

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 Moussais-la-Bataille[5] (between Châtellerault and Poitiers) by Charles Martel and his infantry. This ignited the Battle of Tours. 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.

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 Woodrow 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)
31.8
(89.2)
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 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[6][7]
Source 2: Infoclimat.fr (humidity and snowy days, 1961–1990)[8]

Sights

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

Cathedral

[edit]

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

[edit]

Language

[edit]

Before the French Revolution, the inhabitants of Tours (Les Tourangeaux) were known for speaking the "purest" form of French in the entire country.[9] 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.[10] 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

[edit]
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.

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.[11] 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

[edit]

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.[12]

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[12] and INSEE (1968–2017)[13]

Transportation

[edit]
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.[14]

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.[15]

Sport

[edit]

The city's football team, Tours FC, currently play in Championnat National 3, the fifth level of French football. 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.[16]

Tours also has a volleyball club named the Tours VB.

Catholics from Tours

[edit]
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.[17] The Oratory of the Holy Face on Rue St. Etienne 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.[18]

Notable people

[edit]
Louise de la Vallière, 17th.C
General Régis de Trobriand, 1865

Public service

[edit]

Arts

[edit]
Jean Fouquet self portrait, ca.1450
Philippe Néricault Destouches, 1741
statue of Honoré de Balzac

Science and business

[edit]
Gabriel Lamé

Sport

[edit]
Pascal Hervé, 2000

Twin towns — sister cities

[edit]

Tours is twinned with:[28]

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]

 

 

Early tour bus in Salt Lake City, 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

[edit]

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

[edit]
  • 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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  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 the tour company prioritizes environmental sustainability by following strict conservation practices, minimizing footprints in visited areas, and educating guests on the importance of preserving natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

You'll have peace of mind knowing that they prioritize your privacy and security during exclusive excursions. They employ trained security personnel and use discrete routes to ensure a safe, private experience tailored to your needs.

Yes, there are age restrictions on the new exclusive excursions. You must be at least 12 years old to participate, and anyone under 18 needs an accompanying adult to join them on the tour.