Discover Bourgueil

Bourgueil can be explored through several distinct highlights: the history of the Benedictine abbey, regional Gothic architecture, wine tastings and markets. The days you choose for your stay can make a difference: markets are held on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and the Garlic Fair takes place on the third Tuesday in July.

Abbey and Gothic architecture

The Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Pierre de Bourgueil was founded in 990 by Emma, Duchess of Guyenne and Countess of Poitou. It is partly listed and partly classified as a historic monument; the protected status also applies only to parts of the abbey. The monastic section and the Museum of Art and Popular Traditions are open to the public for visits. Opening details may change, so check them before your visit.

Another stop for architecture enthusiasts is the Church of Saint-Germain de Bourgueil. It is considered an important example of regional Gothic architecture, which dates from the 12th to the 15th century. The church thus offers a distinct architectural perspective alongside the abbey’s long history.

Culture and digital art

The Micro-Folie de Bourgueil is located in the Jean Chamboissier municipal library. It features a digital museum and a virtual reality area. At the digital museum, you can view works from national and partner institutions that have been digitized in high resolution. The offering thus combines a digital presentation of artworks with a dedicated virtual reality area.

Wine tastings and markets

The Maison des Vins de Bourgueil is located in the town centre, in a 15th-century family home belonging to Jean Carmet. Wine tastings are offered there year-round, featuring around 180 cuvées from 93 wineries in the appellation. The selection may change. The venue thus combines wine tasting with a historic building whose identity is associated with Jean Carmet.

The weekly Tuesday market retains its original layout in the town centre: beneath the covered market halls and in the adjoining streets and nearby squares. The Saturday market focuses mainly on food. It was established in the 1970s at the initiative of local producers. The two market days therefore have different emphases: Tuesday is defined by the layout around the covered halls, while Saturday is primarily food-focused. Market layouts and offerings may change; check for current information before your visit.

Green spaces and trails

The abbey grounds include five hectares of green space, with various gardens and a promenade along the Changeon stream. This means you can combine a visit to the abbey with time among gardens and by the water. The specific layout may change. To the north, dense mixed forests meet cultivated land in a clearly defined transition, adding another dimension to the landscape around Bourgueil.

The Chemins du patrimoine heritage trail relating to Bourgueil starts at the covered market halls. If you plan to take this walk, check the current trail information, as it may be updated. The Garlic Fair can also be included in your travel plans as a specific event: it takes place on the third Tuesday in July. Check the event date in advance if you want to plan your stay around it.

Different dates may therefore be key to planning your visit: the Tuesday market, the food-focused Saturday market, wine tastings offered year-round and the Garlic Fair in July. You can plan your trip around whether you want to focus on Bourgueil’s markets, wine or cultural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Saché, La Chapelle-aux-Naux, Tournon-Saint-Pierre, Bléré, Saint-Quentin-Sur-Indrois, Veigné, Chambray-Lès-Tours, Pernay.

Back to the main travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.