Established in 1626 as a medicinal garden for Louis XIII, Paris' 24-hectare botanic gardens – with its double alley of plane trees defining the park – is a tranquil spot to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic (beware of the automatic sprinklers!) and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Three museums from the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, as well as La Ménagerie zoo, add to its charm.