The botanic garden of Tours is the oldest public garden in the city, founded in 1843 on the southern edge of the centre. Five hectares of tree-lined paths, a small lake with peacocks and ducks, glasshouses with tropical plants, and a respectable medicinal plants collection.
It is not a destination in itself but a useful counterpoint to a morning of churches and museums. The garden also has a small free zoo with monkeys, kangaroos, deer and a goat enclosure — particularly good if you are travelling with children. Free entry; open daily.