The beauty of the Luxembourg garden is still one of the most beautiful parks in Paris, which attracts the clients of the city and foreigners. Stretched over an area of twenty-five hectares, the garden hosts beautiful greenery, historical and fun activities for people of all age groups. If you are a fan of nature or history, or anyone interested in cutting off the noise of the city for a break, then it has something for everyone.
Location & How to get there
Jardin du Luxembourg is in the rue du Senat, in the 6th district, in the neighbourhood of the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The affordable prices of the tickets for public transport make it possible for anyone to have easy access to the garden by means of transport.
Nearest Metro Stations:
● Odéon(Line 4, 10) ● Rennes(Line 12) ● Nearest RER Station: Paris RER B Luxembourg Station
Special facilities for car owners include parking near the attraction though, as it is located in the city centre easy access by public transportation is preferable and more environmentally friendly.
A Brief on Jardin du Luxembourg
The area later known as the Luxembourg Garden was planned in 1612 by Marie de’ Medici, the widow of Henry the IV, and was based on designs by the famous Boboli Gardens in Florence. First, the garden was laid around the coronavirus; Luxembourg Palace, known as the Palace of Luxembourg today, is the place for the French Senate. It was then made open to the public and the garden of today being an Italian-French exotic beauty bearing sculptures, fountains and fabulous flower beds.
Major Garden Sights and Attractions
1.The Luxembourg Palace
This palace, built to overlook the gardens, is a great architectural masterpiece. Today, it is the French Senate inside, which is not very stunning. Nevertheless, the building has an elegant classical appearance.
2. Medici Fountain
Probably the most romantic area of the garden, the Medici Fountain was initiated by Marie de’ Medici. Situated under trees right next to a wall, this beautiful fountain is perfect for a short break.
3. The Statues and Sculptures
Some of the statues in the garden include over 100 statues and hence are one of the largest open-air sculpture museums in Paris. Figures of the French queens, saints and classical scholars dominate the compound with sufficient art pieces to please any arthouse attendee.
4. The Grand Basin
The Grand Basin is a large octagonal pond in the centre at the octagonal base surrounded by the parterre where children can sail toy boats. People from all over the world like to rent a toy boat which has become a tradition in Paris.
5. There are also the Orchards and Greenhouses.
It is forbidden not to see the beautiful orchards in which apples and pears are grown and the rare greenhouse plants such as orchids cultivated in greenhouses. Seasonal flowers and many others are the plant types grown in the garden and, hence, widely known.
Tours and Attractions in Jardin du Luxembourg
Walking and Jogging
The garden has an extended green terrain surrounded by trees ideal for walking, jogging or just strolling in the morning. Despite the pandemic, you will be able to notice both tourists and locals who are embraced by the tranquillity of the environment.
Picnicking
The Luxembourg Garden is one of the most suitable places in Paris to make a picnic. Sitting on the grass is allowed in some areas of the park, although those who prefer to sit on benches and chairs are numerous.
The Children’s Playground:
If you’re travelling with children, make a point of stopping by the Jardin du Luxembourg playground; this is one of the best for children in the city. It includes slides and climbing equipment, in addition to other fun activities that make it ideal for families.
Pony Rides and Puppet Shows
Children may also ride on pony which gently circles the park and let them watch shows at the park’s puppet theatre or Théâtre des Marionnettes. All these activities are possible all the time in the year.
Tennis and Chess
For the active type of guests, tennis courts are provided, which are rented out, and there is an area for those who play chess. Often, you will observe people in these shaded corners of the park who are deeply involved with chess games.
Photography
The garden is very photogenic, as it includes many beautiful sights, such as pretty flowers and nice statues. There are varieties of beauty within the different seasons, flowers of spring and the beautiful trees of autumn.
Seasonal Highlights
● Spring and Summer: It is the current flower season, and the gardens look splendid, which makes it appropriate for everyone especially the flora lovers. It is also the best time to go out for a picnic or any other outside activities.
● Fall: The trees shed their leaves, and during the autumn, the park is covered with red, yellow and orange colours, which is not bad at all.
● Winter: In any case, with bare trees and sculptures and the architecture of the park, especially after fresh powder, it remains a magical experience.
Guided Tours
For a deeper understanding of the historical background of the garden, there is an available guided tour. In most of these tours, information about the French Senate, as well as the historical application of the palace, is incorporated. Private walking tours of the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés also usually include this park, so lovers of Parisian history will appreciate a stop at Jardin du Luxembourg.
Practical Information
OpeningHours:
The garden is open year-round, but the hours vary by season:
● 7:30AMto9:30 PM(summer)
● 8:15AMto4:30 PM(winter)
EntryFees:
Admission to the garden does not cost anything and only the children’s playground, and the puppet theatre may require a token charge.
Restrooms:
The garden, of course, has several money toilets, but there are also several that are free of charge.
Accessibility:
The garden is partially wheelchair friendly; all the paths are suitable for use by wheelchairs together with other facilities within the compound.
FAQs
- Jardin du Luxembourg is not limited to free entry, but many parts of the garden are free to visit.
Yes, all the gardens are open to the public free of charge. However, there are charges for the play area and some shows.
- When is the most appropriate time to visit Jardin du Luxembourg?
It is also preferable to visit during spring and summer because flowers are in bloom and the garden looks like a painting.
- What are the rules about picnicking in Jardin du Luxembourg?
Yes, picnicking is allowed, but as mentioned, eating on the grass is prohibited except on certain areas on the field.
- Is there a restaurant in the garden?
There are a few cafes and kiosks within the premises where visitors can buy some snacks, a cup of coffee or a light meal.
- Professionally: Can I take good pictures?
Certainly, visitors are allowed to take photographs; however, professional shoots and taking photos at events such as weddings need a permit.
The Jardin du Luxembourg is a place one should never miss if in Paris. Whether you are visiting for the historical palace, strolling through the Medici Fountain or even entertaining children through the toy boat on the Grand Basin, this garden is of great eye appeal and appeal. Diversity in its history, beautiful nature, and several cultural events make the place ideal for enjoying Parisian life.
