Immersive guided tour of Tours in the 13th century.

Taking a journey through time can be an enchanting way to connect with a city’s past, and this immersive guided tour of Tours in the 13th century promises exactly that — but with a lively twist. Led by Mahaut, a guide dressed in period costume, this 1.5-hour adventure offers an engaging look at the city’s medieval days, blending history, storytelling, and a touch of fun.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the vivid storytelling, bringing the 13th century to life through Mahaut’s captivating narration. Then, the interactive nature — including a playful approach that appeals to both kids and adults — makes history accessible and memorable. Lastly, the chance to explore iconic sites like Place Plumereau and Tour de l’Horloge with a knowledgeable guide adds real value.

One possible consideration? The tour is conducted in French, so non-French speakers might need to brush up on their language skills or enjoy the experience via a guide with translation options, if available. This tour would suit history buffs, curious travelers, families, or anyone interested in a lively, authentic peek into medieval Tours.

Key Points

• Historical immersion: Step into 13th-century Tours with a guide dressed in period costume.
• Iconic sites: Highlights include Place Plumereau, rue du change, and Tour de l’Horloge.
• Engaging storytelling: Mahaut’s narrative challenges stereotypes about women in medieval society.
• Accessible for all ages: A playful, interactive tour suitable for both young and old.
• Affordable value: At $23, it offers a deep dive into history without breaking the bank.
• Practical details: 1.5 hours long, starting from Placis de la Lamproie, and wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 13th-Century Tours Experience

The Concept: Walking Back to the 1200s

This tour is designed to transport you back to the early 13th century, a period when Tours was split into two main areas: the religious, heavily influenced by the bishop, and the commercial, centered around Martinopole around the basilica of Saint Martin. The starting point, Placis de la Lamproie, sets the scene — a bustling medieval city alive with pilgrims, merchants, and city folk. As Mahaut guides you through the cobblestone streets, you’ll hear her lively narration about the city’s division under King Philip Augustus, a time of war, growth, and religious fervor.

What’s Included and How it’s Done

For $23 per person, this 1.5-hour tour offers excellent value considering the rich storytelling and authentic costumes. Your guide, Mahaut, will be dressed in period attire, adding a visual touch that makes the history feel tangible. The group size is manageable, allowing for interaction and questions, and the tour is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

The Itinerary: A Walk through Iconic Spots

The route is packed with points of interest, each offering insights into medieval life.

• Place Plumereau: Known today as a lively square, it was once a hub of commerce and social life. Expect Mahaut to tell stories of medieval markets and local customs, enlivened by her engaging delivery.

• Rue du Change and Rue de la Rôtisserie: These narrow streets were vital for trade, and Mahaut explains how currency and food markets operated back then. She’ll share anecdotes about merchants and guilds, making the old stones come alive.

• Tour de l’Horloge: The iconic clock tower isn’t just a picturesque backdrop; Mahaut reveals its role in city life, community warnings, and the importance of timekeeping in medieval governance.

• Jardin Saint Pierre le Puellier, Tour Charlemagne, and Rue des Halles: These locations reveal how the city’s defenses and religious structures supported the community’s daily life.

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The Story of Mahaut: Challenging Stereotypes

One of the most compelling aspects of this tour is Mahaut herself — a guide who grew up near Saint Martin’s Abbey, with an education that allowed her to portray a woman who took up arms in her father’s stead during times of danger. Reviewers like Christine note, “Mahaut takes us on an original, interactive, and fun journey,” highlighting her ability to make medieval history engaging while challenging preconceived notions about women’s roles in that era. She vividly recounts how Mahaut, the daughter of a crusading militiaman, was no passive observer but an active participant in her city’s history.

The Experience: Interactive, Playful, and Authentic

This tour’s tone is uniquely playful, aimed at engaging visitors of all ages. Expect Mahaut to make eye contact, tell jokes, and encourage questions, which keeps the atmosphere lively. The historical outfit adds to the authenticity, making it easy to forget the modern world for a brief moment.

Why This Tour Works

• Knowledgeable guides: As reviews mention, Mahaut’s storytelling is compelling and intuitive. Her background and passion for local history shine through, making the experience more than just a walk — it’s a storybook come to life.
• Authentic atmosphere: The costume and carefully curated stops help create a tangible connection to the 1200s.
• Educational and fun: From the role of women to trade and pilgrimages, the tour covers a wide range of topics that deepen understanding of medieval life.
• Affordable price point: At just $23, it’s a budget-friendly way to get an insider’s view of Tours’ past.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour lasts 1.5 hours, making it suitable for most schedules. Since it’s led in French, non-French speakers might need translation support or enjoy the visual and physical storytelling aspects. The meeting point, Placis de la Lamproie, is easy to find, with the guide clearly recognizable in her costume. No transportation is included, but given Tours’ compact city center, it’s easy to walk between sites.

Rain or shine, the tour runs as scheduled, so dress accordingly. The tour is not recommended for children under 7, likely due to the length and detailed storytelling—though older kids and teens will find it engaging.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you want a personal, engaging history lesson that brings the 13th century to life without overwhelming you with facts. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in medieval history, religious pilgrimage, or urban development during this period. Families with curious kids (over 7) will find Mahaut’s storytelling fun and educational.

If you’re looking for a structured, formal museum visit, this isn’t it. But for those seeking an authentic, lively, and affordable way to experience medieval Tours, you’ll come away with stories not found in guidebooks.

Final Thoughts

In total, this guided tour offers a unique blend of entertainment and education. Mahaut’s lively storytelling and authentic costume create an immersive environment that helps you understand what life was like in 13th-century Tours. The route covers the city’s key sites, each with stories that connect past and present. For just $23, you gain a memorable, authentic glimpse into a turbulent and fascinating era, making it a fantastic option for curious travelers and families alike.

While it’s conducted in French and might not suit non-French speakers, the tour’s engaging nature and visual storytelling can still offer a meaningful experience. Plus, the manageable duration makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day in Tours.

If you’re after an authentic, playful, and educational experience that highlights the city’s medieval roots, this tour ticks all the boxes—and you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the city’s history, and maybe even Mahaut’s spirited character.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but it’s recommended for children over 7 years old. The tour’s length and detailed storytelling may be too long or complex for very young children.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is led in French. Non-French speakers might find it helpful to have some basic understanding of the language or enjoy the visual storytelling.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and engaging activity for most travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Placis de la Lamproie and finishes back at the same point, with a route covering several historical sites across Tours.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included. However, Tours’ city center is compact, and walking between sites is straightforward.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this guided tour of 13th-century Tours offers a lively, authentic look at medieval life, guided by a passionate storyteller in period costume. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see the city’s sights through a historical lens, with the added bonus of engaging storytelling that challenges stereotypes and invites curiosity. Whether you’re exploring with family, history enthusiasts, or just the curious-minded, this experience adds a memorable chapter to your visit to Tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: