Tours Val de Loire Airport (TUF/LFOT): Your Direct Route to the Châteaux of the Loire Valley
Tours Val de Loire Airport (TUF/LFOT) serves as the primary air connection to the beautiful Centre-Val de Loire region of France. Conveniently located just 6 km from the historic city center of Tours, this small but essential airport is the ideal entry point for travelers eager to explore the world-famous UNESCO-listed Loire Valley Châteaux (Châteaux de la Loire). Primarily supporting international low-cost and seasonal scheduled flights, the airport is crucial for regional tourism. In 2024, the airport efficiently handled approximately 200,000 passengers, linking the valley to major European cities.
Airport Overview and Key Information
Tours Val de Loire Airport (Aéroport Tours Val de Loire) is distinguished by its strategic location and efficient operations tailored for quick turnarounds.
| Key Data Point | Details |
| IATA Code | TUF |
| ICAO Designation | LFOT |
| Location | Tours, Centre-Val de Loire region, France |
| Distance from City Center | 6 km (approx. 10-minute drive) |
| Primary Function | Hub for low-cost European carriers and private aviation |
| Proximity to Attractions | Direct access to châteaux like Chenonceau, Amboise, and Villandry |
Terminals and Essential Traveler Services
The airport operates a single, modern, and compact terminal, focusing on a streamlined passenger experience from arrival to departure.
- Terminal Size: One small, optimized terminal.
- Key Services:
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal building.
- An on-site café/snack bar offering beverages and light meals.
- Limited duty-free and retail shopping options for last-minute purchases.
- Accessibility: The terminal provides facilities and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility.
Airlines and Destinations (2025 Network Update)
Tours Val de Loire Airport’s route map for 2025 is robust, relying heavily on a single carrier that provides vital international and domestic connections.
- Primary Scheduled Carrier: Ryanair is the main and currently the sole scheduled airline operating out of TUF.
2025 Scheduled Destinations (Seasonal and Year-Round):
| International Routes | Domestic Routes (France) |
| United Kingdom: London Stansted (STN) | Marseille (MRS) |
| Ireland: Dublin (DUB) | Nice (NCE) |
| Portugal: Porto (OPO), Lisbon (LIS) | Lyon (LYS) |
| Spain: Barcelona–El Prat (BCN) | Toulouse (TLS) |
| Morocco: Marrakesh Menara (RAK) |
Ground Transportation Options
Travelers have fast and affordable options for transfers between the airport and Tours city center, which is located just minutes away.
- Taxi: A taxi rank is available outside the terminal. The journey to the city center typically takes just 10 minutes, with an estimated fare of 10–15 EUR.
- Public Bus Service: A local bus line connects the airport to Tours, providing a cost-effective transfer in approximately 15 minutes for a low fare (typically 1.50 EUR).
- Car Rental: Essential for château tours, major international rental companies such as Hertz and Avis operate desks within the terminal.
- Parking: Paid parking is conveniently available on-site, offering short- and long-term options immediately accessible to the terminal.
Contact Information and Nearby Attractions
The airport is the perfect starting point for a cultural exploration, located near iconic French landmarks.
- Nearby Attractions: The airport’s location is ideal for quick access to the most famous châteaux, including Chenonceau, Amboise, and Azay-le-Rideau.
- Accommodation: Hotels such as the Hôtel ibis Tours Nord and the Mercure Tours Centre Gare are situated within easy reach of the airport and the city center.
| Contact Detail | Information |
| Address | Aéroport Tours Val de Loire, 40 rue de l’Aéroport, 37100 Tours, FRANCE |
| Phone | +33 2 47493700 |
| Official Website | www.tours-airport.com |