Jardin de Luxembourg
Jardin de Luxembourg is a well deserved favourite among Parisians and should be on any visitors must see list
Jardin de Luxembourg is situated near the famous Sorbonne University in the 6th arrondisement. It is arguably the most well known and well loved park in Paris. The name comes from the fact the park was originally owned by the Duke of Luxemberg so quite literally, Jardin de Luxembourg translates as the garden of Luxembourg.
The park covers an area of around fifty-five hectares. Famously the park was bought by Marie de Medici who was the mother of Louis XIII, because of her Italian heritage she had the garden redesigned in an Italian style so that she could be reminded of her childhood spent mostly in Florence at Pitti Palace.
The Grand Bassin is a large octagon shaped pond that is situated right at the very centre of the park, one of the favourite pastimes that people enjoy here is to rent a small boat. You may also be entertained by a small puppet theatre and there are pony rides and a carousel for the children. This park is well worth a visit and it really feels like the quintessential park portrayed in so many movies. There are many nice lawns all around the central point and one can also simply make use of one of the many chairs that are around the park if you need to take a short rest from your wanderings.
A number of Watteau's garden scenes are based on the view of the garden during a period when the upkeep of the gardens was neglected and they were allowed to run wild a little. If you are familiar with his work then you might find it interesting to try to find the locations of his paintings.
This park is a favourite for couples and also is a firm favourite of chess players as well as the traditional French game of Jeux de Boules, a game that is something like jacks. There are also a number of really beautiful fountains in this park, one of the most well known is the Fontaine de Medicis, named after the famous family that originally bought the park and redesigned it. The fountain is designed in a baroque style and has been there since 1624. There are a number of statues throughout the park that attract great interest as well.
Nearby attractions: Latin Quarter, Pantheon and the Musée de Cluny - (Medieval Art)
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: 75006 Paris, France
Phone: 01 42 34 20 00
Official Website: Jardin de Luxembourg
Jardin de Luxembourg Reviews
Rated out of 5
A wonderful large park and garden with many statues, trees and flowers. It was beautiful in December, so I can imagine it would be spectacular in spring and summer. Full of people enjoying their snacks and refreshments while relaxing in the many provided chairs—especially around the pond. Numerous children were enjoying the playground equipment and merry-go-round on this sunny day. Free public toilets provided. Even a mini Statue of Liberty on site!
William Love - 3 months ago
The Luxembourg Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful park right in the heart of Paris. It is the perfect place for a quick break, whether you want to sit, walk, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere. A lovely green escape where you can relax and recharge before continuing to explore the city.
Pasindu Ranasinghe - 3 months ago
Amazingly space full park with beautiful flowers. Perfect place to recuperate and enjoy a coffee or sandwich while strolling the city. The old building looks great as a backdrop as well. Loads of locals enjoying a walk and having a chat during their break from work. Very cool place in Paris.
R S - 4 months ago
One of the most beautiful of Paris gardens. Sadly, dogs are restricted to a small grassless area, and can not sit by the fountain with you nor within sight of the Medici fountain. Even small dogs in carrier bags are confined by these restrictions. I feel sorry for Parisian dogs.....
cm VOX - a month ago
The Luxembourg gardnes are a really pleasant place to walk through if you need a quiet break from the busy streets of Paris. The gardens are well kept, with lots of paths, trees, and places to sit for a while. It is nice for a slow stroll or just watching people go by.
We visited during a weekday and It can get a bit crowded, but it still feels relaxed and worth visiting if you are in the area.
Jack Fletcher - 2 months ago
Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| M4 or M10 | Odéon | 6 minutes |
| M12 | Notre-Dame-des-Champs | 6 minutes |
| RER-B | Luxembourg | 0 minutes |
How to get to Jardin de Luxembourg by Metro / RER
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Photo Gallery
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Palais du Luxembourg overlooking the Luxembourg Garden in Paris cc licensed photo by waitscm -
Photo Credit: Jeanne Menjoulet - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jeanne Menjoulet - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Eric@focus - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jeanne Menjoulet - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Carl Campbell - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: paologmb - cc license via Flickr
