Tours Station (Gare de Tours) is not merely a transport hub, but a true architectural masterpiece in the very heart of the city. Built at the end of the 19th century, this building impresses with its grandeur and is often compared to the Musée d'Orsay in Paris due to their shared architect. The station serves as the main gateway for travellers wishing to explore the famous castles and the Loire Valley region.
It is important for passengers to know that Tours Station is a terminal station, which significantly simplifies orientation: all platforms are on the same level as the main hall. The building features convenient navigation with electronic display boards. Please note that many long-distance high-speed TGV trains stop at the neighbouring station Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, to which shuttle trains (navette) run regularly from here.
Contact Information
To plan your journey and clarify information regarding station operations, please use the following contacts:
Official website: gares-sncf.com (information on schedules and services).
General enquiries: 3635 (single SNCF number, available within France).
Address: Place du Général Leclerc, 37000 Tours, France.
Opening hours: The station is open daily from early morning (around 05:00) until late at night (around 00:30).
Luggage storage: The availability and operating hours of automatic lockers may vary depending on current security measures (Vigipirate plan).
Accessibility: The Accès Plus service operates to assist passengers with reduced mobility (booking 48 hours in advance is recommended).
How to Get There
Getting to Tours Station is very simple thanks to its central location.
Public Transport: Directly in front of the station building is a major transport hub. The tram (Line A) and numerous buses of the Fil Bleu city network stop here. This is the most economical way to arrive from any point in the city.
Taxi: The taxi rank is located on Place du Général Leclerc, directly at the exit of the main hall. A trip to Tours Val de Loire Airport will take about 20 minutes.
On Foot: From the historical centre, Rue Nationale, or Saint-Gatien Cathedral, you can reach the station on foot in 5–10 minutes. The majestic facade of the station is visible from afar and serves as an excellent landmark.
Services and Amenities
Within the premises of Tours Station, a wide range of services is available to passengers for a comfortable wait.
The spacious waiting hall features comfortable benches and ticket counters, as well as self-service ticket machines. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station area. Zones with power outlets can be found for charging devices.
Other amenities include paid toilets, photo booths, a piano for public use, and a car rental point. Ramps and specially equipped zones are provided for passengers with reduced mobility.
Where to Eat
If you need a snack before your train departs, there are several convenient options at the station and nearby.
Quick Snack: Inside the station, chain bakeries (such as Brioche Dorée or Paul) and press kiosks with beverages and sandwiches usually operate. Here you can quickly grab coffee and pastries. The average bill will be 5–8 euros.
Full Meal: The square in front of the station features numerous restaurants and cafes, as well as fast-food outlets (including McDonald's). This is an excellent option if you have 30–40 minutes to spare.
Station History
The history of Tours Station is inextricably linked to the golden age of railways. The current building was erected in 1896–1898 according to the design of the famous architect Victor Laloux, a native of Tours.
Notably, this same architect later designed the Orsay station in Paris (now the Musée d'Orsay), and the similarity in styles is evident. The building is executed in the Beaux-Arts style and decorated with allegorical statues representing destinations: Bordeaux, Toulouse, Nantes, and Limoges. During 20th-century renovations, the station was modernised to accommodate electric trains while preserving its historical appearance.
Passenger Tips
To ensure your trip via Tours Station is stress-free, make use of these tips:
Arrival Time: Arrive at least 15–20 minutes before departure. Boarding for TGV trains usually closes 2 minutes before departure.
Tickets: If you have an old-style paper ticket, be sure to validate (stamp) it in the yellow machine before entering the platform. This is not required for electronic tickets (e-billet).
Transfers: Carefully check the departure station. If your train leaves from Saint-Pierre-des-Corps station, use the shuttle train (navette), which departs from a separate platform at Tours Station.
Safety: Do not leave luggage unattended, as this may trigger a security alert and cause train delays.
