Family outings in Tours
Tours is a gentle, bright city between the Loire and the Cher, with an old centre of half-timbered houses and a big square lined with cafés. For kids, the botanical garden, the aquarium and the Loire riverbanks are enough to fill a few days. Tours is also a good base for the châteaux: Villandry and its gardens, or Amboise and the Clos Lucé, are 20 to 30 minutes away. Spring and summer are the most pleasant; in winter, lean on indoor options. The relaxed neighbourhood life, without crowds, makes days pleasant even with a stroller, in almost any season.
Must-do activities
Tours Botanical Garden
A 19th-century garden with greenhouses, ponds and a small animal area. Free, great with a stroller and for a picnic break.
Place Plumereau and Old Tours
Half-timbered houses and cobbled lanes to explore on foot. Free, with plenty of café terraces to sit down.
Touraine Aquarium
In Lussault-sur-Loire, about 15 minutes away, an aquarium with freshwater and sea species, including crocodiles. A good option on grey days.
Loire Riverbanks
A promenade and cycle path along the river, with sandy banks in good weather. Free; stay in the permitted areas because of the current.
Château and Gardens of Villandry
About 20 minutes away, spectacular chequered gardens and a hedge maze. Kids love getting lost in the paths.
Château du Clos Lucé (Amboise)
About 25 minutes away, Leonardo da Vinci's last home, with a park full of models of his machines that kids can try. A very playful visit.
Free parks and playgrounds near Tours
- 🌳 Square Sourdillon
- 📚 Bibliothèque universitaire des Tanneurs
- 🛝 Square Berta Cáceres
- 🏖️ Plage de l'Île de la Métairie
- 🌳 Jardin Henri de Ségogne
- 📚 Bibliothèque Municipale
- 🌲 Espace naturel sensible du bocage de la Gloriette
- 🛝 Aire de Jeux Grande Bruère
- 🏖️ Plage de Savonnières
- 🌳 Square Prosper Mérimée
- 📚 Culture et bibliothèque pour tous
- 🌲 Espace Naturel Sensible du Val de Choisille
Making the most of Tours as a family
Whether you live in Tours or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.
To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.
Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.
Bookable activities in Tours
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Tours, often with free cancellation.
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Family outings not to miss
→ Discover activities in Tours on FamiSwipe
FAQ
What can kids do in Tours when it rains?
The Touraine Aquarium, the museums in the centre and the libraries are good options. Châteaux have large indoor rooms too, but the gardens are less fun in the rain.
What are the free family activities in Tours?
The botanical garden, the Loire riverbanks, Old Tours and the city parks cost nothing. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.
How many châteaux should you visit with kids in the Loire Valley?
One château a day is a good pace with young children. Pick one with gardens or activities, such as Villandry or the Clos Lucé.
Can you do Tours without a car with kids?
In town, yes: tram, bus and bike are enough. For the châteaux a car is easier, though some can be reached by train.