Bourges from Romans Ruins to Alchemists Self-guided walking tour

Loire Valley , France

Bourges from Romans Ruins to Alchemists Self-guided walking tour

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About this experience

Step into the heart of medieval Bourges with a self guided walking tour that uncovers stories hidden in plain sight. From the grandeur of the Palais Jacques Cœur and Bourges Cathedral to the secrets of Hôtel Lallemant, you’ll discover how merchants, kings, and even alchemists shaped this city’s past. Wander along charming streets lined with half-timbered houses, hear tales of miraculous events like the kneeling mule, and know the stories of churches filled with centuries-old stained glass, paintings, and sculptures. Every stop reveals something unexpected—mysteries carved into stone, legends that blur faith and folklore, and symbols that still puzzle historians today. This isn’t just a tour of monuments, it’s an invitation to see Bourges as it once was: a place of power and imagination. Join us, and let the city’s fascinating stories bring its historic streets to life.

Available options

Bourges from Romans Ruins to Alchemists Self-guided walking tour

What's included

100% Satisfaction Guarantee: If you don’t love the tour, write to us for a full refund.

Audio and written guide included

Offline access to the tour (no internet connection needed) once tour is downloaded

Images to identify stops and in app interactive map for navigation

1-year access on iOS & Android. Listen to the tour anytime, as many times as you like

Detailed itinerary

Step into the serene Le Jardin de l'Archevenche, a magnificent French-style garden with roots in the 16th century, and uncover the secrets behind its symmetrical design and beautiful seasonal sculptures.

Step into the world of Saint William of Bourges through the detailed sculptures of the cathedral's portal. Join us to unlock the secrets behind these magnificent carvings.

Uncover the secrets of the ancient Roman Empire as you explore the well-preserved Gallo-Roman ramparts, a fascinating blend of history and engineering.

Rue Bourbonnoux, a street lined with over 450 historic half-timbered houses, and uncover the fascinating secrets behind their construction and the city's recovery from a devastating fire.

Discover the secrets of the Hôtel Lallemant, a stunning Renaissance mansion with a mysterious past tied to the alchemists and their quest for the Philosopher's Stone.

Stand in the historic Place Gordaine and uncover the fascinating story of how this medieval marketplace became a hotbed of the Protestant Reformation and a platform for the revolutionary ideas of John Calvin

Step into the history of Bourges at the Hôtel des Échevins, where the city’s aldermen once met and ruled, and uncover the secrets of its dual-purpose towers and playful architecture.

Step into the history of Église Saint-Bonnet and learn how this church was rebuilt multiple times over centuries after facing devastating fires and natural disasters.

At the Hôtel Cujas, discover how a Renaissance scholar living here made Bourges famous for legal humanism, influencing French law and thought for centuries to come.

His meticulous study of Roman law reshaped European legal thought, influencing scholars and judicial systems for centuries.

Discover the secrets of the Palais Jacques Cœur, a historical building filled with fascinating details, including a clever play on words and a tale of a king, betrayal, and an epic escape.

Explore the Church of Saint-Pierre, a building born from a famous miracle that united a skeptic and a saint in a dramatic public showdown

The Maison Natale de Jacques Cœur is the historic birthplace of the 15th-century French merchant and financier, Jacques Cœur. This charming medieval house offers a glimpse into his early life and the architectural style of Bourges.

Discover the sweet side of Bourges at Villa Monin, a one-of-a-kind boutique where you can explore a hundred-year legacy of flavor and create your own unique drinks.

What's not included

Any physical devices or headphones

Human tour guide at location

Available languages

Audio guide

DE RU PT EN IT PL FR NL ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This is a self-guided audio tour on the app. To activate the tour, check your email for instructions or your booking platform sent right after booking. Can’t find it? Search for your email inbox and spam folder or contact us via support.

Important notes

Know before you go :

•⁠ ⁠You will need to download the "Tourific self guided tours" app from the Google play store or App store

•⁠ ⁠Right after booking, you’ll receive an email from Tourific or the tour booking platform with instructions to access the tour.

•⁠ ⁠Having trouble finding the email? Just search for “Tourific” in your inbox or spam folder.

•⁠ ⁠For any issues - contact support@tourific.org

•⁠ ⁠The tour is valid for 1 year and can be listened to any number of times. So feel free to download tour and experience a few stops before going on the tour.

•⁠ ⁠Fully charge your phone and carry your headphones for the best experience

•⁠ ⁠The tour follows a set route that we recommend that you follow. Once the tour is downloaded, the introduction will guide you to your starting point

•⁠ ⁠Change of plans? Enjoy the tour on a different day or from home

About Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historic châteaux, and lush vineyards. Often called the 'Garden of France', it offers a rich blend of Renaissance architecture, wine tasting, and scenic river views.

Top Attractions

Château de Chambord

One of the most famous châteaux in the Loire Valley, Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It features a distinctive double spiral staircase and stunning views of the surrounding forest.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €15.50

Château de Chenonceau

Known as the 'Ladies' Château', Château de Chenonceau is a beautiful castle built over the Cher River. It's famous for its elegant galleries and beautiful gardens.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €18.50

Château d'Amboise

Château d'Amboise is a historic castle with a rich past, including being the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci. It offers stunning views of the Loire River and the town of Amboise.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €13.50

Villandry Gardens

Villandry Gardens are renowned for their beautiful and intricately designed gardens, including vegetable gardens, flower gardens, and water gardens. They are a must-visit for garden enthusiasts.

Nature 1-2 hours €8.50

Loire River Cruises

Cruising the Loire River offers a unique perspective of the valley's landscapes, châteaux, and vineyards. There are various cruise options available, from short sightseeing tours to multi-day trips.

Adventure 1-4 hours for sightseeing tours, longer for multi-day cruises €15-€150 depending on the tour

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rillettes

A traditional Loire Valley specialty made from slow-cooked pork, chicken, or duck, shredded and mixed with fat. It's typically served as an appetizer or snack.

Snack Contains pork

Tarte Tatin

A famous upside-down apple tart originating from the Loire Valley. It's made with caramelized apples and a buttery pastry crust.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Selles-sur-Cher Cheese

A soft, creamy cheese with a distinctive flavor, produced in the Loire Valley. It's often enjoyed with local wine or as part of a cheese platter.

Snack Contains dairy

Touraine Wine

The Loire Valley is known for its excellent wines, including white wines like Sancerre and Vouvray, and red wines like Chinon and Bourgueil. Wine tasting is a must-do activity in the region.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Cycling Hiking Kayaking on the Loire River Wine tasting Gardens tour Picnicking in the countryside Château tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. The valley is lush and green, and all attractions are open.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Loire Valley is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Tours Val de Loire Airport • 10 km from Tours
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport • 250 km from Tours

By train

Tours Train Station, Blois Train Station

By bus

Tours Bus Station, Orléans Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Rémi bus network connects major towns and some tourist sites. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel between smaller towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tours Amboise Blois Chenonceaux

Day trips

Château de Villandry

10 km from Tours • Half day

Château de Villandry is known for its beautiful Renaissance gardens, including vegetable gardens, flower gardens, and water gardens. It's a must-visit for garden enthusiasts.

Azay-le-Rideau

30 km from Tours • Half day

Azay-le-Rideau is a beautiful château built on an island in the Indre River. It's known for its elegant architecture and beautiful gardens.

Sancerre

100 km from Tours • Full day

Sancerre is a famous wine region known for its white wines made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. It's a great destination for wine lovers looking to explore the Loire Valley's wine country.

Festivals

Fêtes de la Loire • June Festival de Musique de Blois • July Wine Harvest Festival • September to October

Pro tips

Visit châteaux early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore the region's scenic routes
Try local specialties like rillettes, tarte Tatin, and Selles-sur-Cher cheese
Sample the region's excellent wines, including Sancerre, Vouvray, and Chinon
Explore the Loire Valley's beautiful gardens, such as Villandry and Chenonceau