Located right next to the Clock Tower, we loved visit the Basilica of Saint-Martin! We were charmed by this Romanesque-Byzantine church housing the relics of Saint Martin, which is well worth a visit for its majestic appearance, stunning nave and magnificent collection of stained glass windows.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the Basilique Saint-Martin in Tours.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Saint Martin's Basilica worthwhile?
The Basilica of Saint-Martin is well worth a visit! We loved our visit to the Basilica of Saint-Martin, whose Roman-Byzantine style stands in stark contrast to that of Saint-Gatien's Cathedral. In addition to its exteriors, which we recommend you take a closer look at from both sides, you'll also have the pleasure of discovering its richly decorated interiors. Between the finely sculpted neo-Romanesque capitals, the pretty frieze of foliage in the nave, and the various stained glass windows dedicated to Saint Martin or his relics, you won't know where to turn! For us, it's one of the best activities in town!
What you can see
The facade of the basilica
The tour begins on the west (south) facade, where you can admire the sober stonework and monumental porch, enhanced by neo-Romanesque capitals. Although the basilica was only built in 1887, it blends in perfectly with the surrounding landscape, in particular the 11th-century Tour Charlemagne, which bears witness to the former basilica. On the forecourt, don't miss the Calvary (not pictured) depicting Saint Martin sharing his cloak.
The chevet and the statue of Saint Martin
We're always on the lookout for the chevet of a church, and the Byzantine-style chevet of the Basilica of Saint-Martin is particularly impressive.
Look up and admire the statue of Saint Martin blessing the city of Tours on the slate-covered dome. Created in bronze by sculptor Jean Hugues, it measures 4.25m.
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As we entered the building, we were immediately struck by the serenity of the nave. This is undoubtedly due to the beautiful luminosity emanating from the skylights and the elevations of the nave. The immaculate white of the carved foliage capitals, the grey marble columns and the frieze of foliage running the length of the nave are also in perfect harmony. But what particularly appealed to us was the contrast provided by the vault's magnificent colored wooden framework.
The stained glass collection
A remarkable glass roof! Dating from the 19th century, the stained glass windows by the Lobin workshops depict the life of Saint Martin and his cult through the centuries. We loved detailing the various motifs (miracles, facts from French history) and admiring the shimmering reflections they gave the place.
The majestic dome
At the back of the nave, just above the choir, you can admire the dome. with 22 windows. In the middle of the dome, you can see Saint Martin seated, blessing with one hand and holding the cross with the other. We really appreciated the palm fronds and streamers that encircle it.
The crypt and tomb of Saint Martin
This is the basilica's signature piece! The crypt houses the mosaic tomb of Saint Martin. In addition to the relics that can be seen through the openings, you'll appreciate the rich ornamentation of the tomb, from the pediment adorned with crosses, to the carved wooden capitals and the ten columns with bronze capitals. For our part, we noted the traces on the floor of the ancient foundations of the primitive church and the numerous ex-voto (offering in thanks for an answered prayer) on the walls.
And more surprises...
Once you've admired the church's various highlights, don't leave without taking a look at the following elements:
- The high altar: located in the choir, it contains the largest relic of Saint Martin. Decorated with mosaics, it was donated by Eugène Gouïn.
- The statue of Saint James: located at the top of the west-side bay. Overlooking the visitor, it is made of stone and dates from the late 15th century.
- The organ: installed in 1956 in the basilica.
WHERE TO STAY IN Tours
In the city center
Enjoy the city, its restaurants and beautiful architecture.
- Hotel Ferdinand - check prices, pictures and availability
- Hôtel du Cygne - check prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel L'Adresse - check prices, pictures and availability
Near the station and around the city center
An early train? Or just a little more peace and quiet? Here are our recommendations:
- Hotel Les Trésorières - 5 stars - check prices, pictures and availability
- Aparthotel Central Parc Tours - check prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Oceania L'Univers Tours - check prices, pictures and availability
In the countryside around
Looking for a bit of peace and quiet, without straying too far from the city of Tours? Here's our suggestion:
- Hotel Domaine de la Tortinière - 20 min away - check prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Troglododo - unusual 25min away - check prices, pictures and availability
Basilique Saint-Martin in Tours: how to get there
Where to find Saint-Martin Basilica
- In the city of Tours
- In the downtown area
- Driving time to Paris: 2h30.
- Driving time to Angers: 1h30.
Here's a map of the best things to do in Tours to help you find your way around:
Access by car and parking
The city of Tours is well served by freeway: the A10 (between Paris and Bordeaux), the A28 (between Rouen and Tours) and the A85 (between Nantes and Bourges), and the basilica is easily reached by car.
Given the narrow streets around the basilica and the lack of space, we recommend parking your vehicle in the Halles parking lot, a 3-minute walk away.
Public transport access
From Tours train station, you can walk to the Basilique Saint-Martin (20min) or take the streetcar (line 1/ stop J.Monnet) in 12min.
To plan your itinerary, we recommend you visit the official website of the public transport network here.
Visiting difficulties
Access is on one level, so there are no difficulties for visitors. Note, however, that access to the crypt is mainly via a staircase.
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Visiting Saint Martin's Basilica: useful tips
Schedules and prices
The basilica is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Find out all the latest information on their official website.
How long
The church can be visited in 15 to 30 minutes.
Best moment
We advise you to visit in the morning to minimize the number of visitors, especially during the summer months, and like all religious buildings, to avoid church service times.
Direction of visit
There's no set way to visit the basilica, but we recommend that you first explore the façade, before discovering the details hidden inside, and finishing with the crypt. A map of the church is available at the entrance to help you find your way around.
Eating out
St. Martin's Basilica is right in the center of town, with many restaurants all around. Coming soon: our selection of the best restaurants.
Hotels
With Saint-Martin Basilica right in the center of town, there are plenty of hotels close by. See our selection of the best hotels in Tours.
DISCOVER Tours
- Things to do in Tours
- Where to sleep in Tours: best hotels
- Where to eat in Tours: best restaurants - coming soon
- Rent a car in Tours
- Best castles around Tours
- Visit the Tours Museum of Fine Arts - coming soon
- Visit the Basilica of Saint Martin in Tours - coming soon
- Visit the Botanical Garden of Tours - coming soon
- Visit Saint-Gatien Cathedral
- Visit the Companionship Museum - coming soon
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