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Jardin Botanique de Tours: A Green Oasis in the City

Discover a historic botanical garden in Tours with diverse plant collections, animal exhibits, and themed gardens for a relaxing escape.

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The Jardin Botanique de Tours, established in 1843, is a 5-hectare botanical garden and arboretum offering a serene escape in the heart of Tours. With diverse plant collections, animal enclosures, and themed gardens, it's a delightful place for nature lovers and families alike.

A brief summary to Jardin botanique de Tours

  • Monday 7:45 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:45 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:45 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:45 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:45 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 7:45 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 7:45 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the greenhouses to see tropical plants and learn about their uses.
  • Explore the animal enclosures, especially the mini-farm, which is popular with children.
  • Take a stroll through the arboretum to admire the diverse collection of trees.
  • Check out the Ginkgo biloba tree, a unique botanical specimen.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place Plumereau in central Tours, head east along Rue de la Scellerie, then turn left onto Boulevard Tonnellé. The Jardin botanique is located at 33 Boulevard Tonnellé. The walk is about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Tours train station (Gare de Tours), take bus line 15 towards Bretonneau. The bus departs hourly and the journey to the Bretonneau stop takes approximately 15 minutes. The Jardin Botanique is located across the street from the Bretonneau Hospital. A single Fil Bleu bus fare costs €1.80.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Tours city center to the Jardin Botanique de Tours typically costs between €7 and €11, and the journey takes about 5-7 minutes.

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Discover more about Jardin botanique de Tours

The Jardin Botanique de Tours, located on Boulevard Tonnellé, is a cherished green space with a rich history. Established in 1843 through public initiative led by pharmacist Jean-Anthyme Margueron, it is the oldest public garden in Tours. Originally intended to support the city's Hospice Général and the School of Pharmacy, the garden has evolved into a diverse botanical collection and recreational area. The garden is divided into themed sections, including an English-style arboretum, a garden of medicinal plants, and areas showcasing plants from different climates. The "Biodivers" greenhouses display tropical species, while the orangery shelters plants during winter and hosts exhibitions in the summer. Animal enclosures add to the garden's appeal, housing wallabies, flamingos, and a mini-farm. Throughout its history, the Jardin Botanique de Tours has faced challenges, including floods, fires, and bombings. However, it has persevered, maintaining its role as a place for both scientific study and public enjoyment. A notable feature is the Ginkgo biloba tree, planted in 1843, which is a rare specimen with a female branch grafted onto a male tree. The north part of the garden was renovated to display the botanical collections in a modern way. Today, the Jardin Botanique de Tours is a blend of botanical displays and recreational spaces, complete with playgrounds and animal parks.

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