My main bicycle is a "sport touring" bicycle (or otherwise called an Audax bike). It is designed mainly for long distance cycling, but can be used for light touring ... although I've toured fairly heavily with it. Because it is a bit lighter than a touring bicycle, I can also use it as a road bicycle, and I've even raced with it.
If you aren't completely sold on the idea of touring, you might consider looking for a sport touring or Audax bike ... sort of a cross between a racing bicycle and touring bicycle.