Parks and gardens of Paris: Jardin du Luxembourg

The Jardin du Luxembourg (also known as the Luxembourg gardens) is a beautiful green and peaceful space on the left bank of Paris. The Parisians are pretty much in love with this enchanting place, so it is no wonder that you can see and meet many locals there. The Jardin du Luxembourg is a perfect spot to have a picnic, to play tennis, chess or bridge. You can also find many activities for children such as puppet shows, pony rides, remote control boats on the pond and slides. And this is not all. There is a great chance that, during your visit, you will come across some very interesting open-air concerts and art exhibitions.

The gardens

The Jardin du Luxembourg was built in 1612 upon the initiative of the Queen Marie de Medici, the widow of the King Henry IV of France. The gardens cover 25 hectares and are inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, a spectacular example of the "green architecture" decorated with sculptures, and a prototype which inspired many European Royal gardens. The Jardin du Luxembourg* is split into a French and English style gardens and the Luxembourg Palace** owned today by the French Senate is located in its centre. The gardens have 106 statues, monuments, and fountains spread throughout the park. The monumental *Medici fountain is the most remarkable spot in the Jardin the Luxembourg. Designed by Tommaso Francini, a Florentine fountain maker, this fountain is built in the form of a cave, a popular feature of the Italian Renaissance gardens. In 1811, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the restoration of the fountain, after which the long basin of water and the sculptures of the giant Polyphemus surprising the lovers Acis and Galatea* *were added to the cave.

Great place for children

Your children will probably adore visiting the Jardin du Luxembourg. Many outdoor activities are organized just for them. From pony rides to remote control boats on the pond, they will enjoy their stay in this beautiful garden. If the weather conditions are not great, don’t worry, there are still some great things they can do here. They can spend a perfect rainy afternoon in the Théâtre des Marionnettes du Jardin du Luxembourg. This theater, opened in 1933, is the largest in Paris with a capacity of 275 spectators. As the marionettes are a part of a treasured tradition in France, do not miss the show.

Practical information

In the Jardin du Luxembourg, on the two refreshment stalls, you can get something to eat, but also some beverages and sweets. The guided tours led by one of the park’s gardeners are available on the first Wednesday of the month, from April to October. The Jardin du Luxembourg is open between 7.30 a.m. and 8.00 a.m. and closes between 4.30p.m. and 9.30 p.m. depending on the season.