Jardin du Luxembourg
Paris, France · Nature
About Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg is an iconic public park created in 1612 at the request of Queen Marie de' Medici. Located on the Left Bank in the 6th arrondissement, it surrounds the grand Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate. It is famous worldwide for its formal geometric terraces, romantic fountains, and relaxed Parisian atmosphere.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the romantic Medici Fountain, a lush seventeenth-century stone water basin nestled under plane trees.
- Watch children navigate vintage wooden model sailboats across the central Grand Bassin pond.
- Admire the neoclassical facade of the Luxembourg Palace framed by immaculate seasonal floral displays.
- Spot dozens of historical statues dotted along the gravel paths, including an original miniature Statue of Liberty.
Plan your visit
Visit on a sunny afternoon in spring or summer when the flower beds are in full bloom. Early mornings are also wonderful if you want to enjoy a peaceful walk before the crowds arrive.
Entry to the gardens is completely free and requires no reservation. If you wish to visit temporary art exhibitions at the adjacent Musée du Luxembourg, a separate paid ticket is required.
Take the RER B train directly to Luxembourg station, which brings you to the garden gates. You can also take Metro lines 4 or 10 to Odéon and walk south for five minutes.
Tips for visiting
- Pull up one of the iconic movable green metal chairs to read or people-watch in the shade.
- Only sit on lawns marked with signs allowing public access, as many grass areas are protected.
- Bring cash if you want to rent a classic toy sailboat for children at the main basin.
- Listen for the whistles of park guards in the evening, which signal that the gates are closing.
- Visit the quiet orchard and historic apiary tucked away in the southwestern corner.
Jardin du Luxembourg FAQ
Can you have a picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg?
Yes, but picnicking is strictly restricted to designated lawn areas. Keep an eye out for signs indicating which grassy sections allow sitting. Alternatively, you can enjoy takeaway food on any of the park benches and movable chairs.
Are dogs permitted inside the gardens?
Dogs are generally not allowed throughout the main areas of the park. They are only permitted on a specific paved perimeter alley connecting Boulevard Saint-Michel and Rue Guynemer, provided they are kept on a leash.
Can visitors tour the interior of the Luxembourg Palace?
The Luxembourg Palace is an active government building that serves as the seat of the French Senate and is rarely open to tourists. Public access is usually limited to European Heritage Days in September or pre-booked guided group tours.
Are there restrooms and dining options in the park?
Yes, the park has several automated public restrooms that may require a small fee. You will also find traditional refreshment kiosks, casual outdoor cafés, and a sit-down restaurant scattered across the grounds.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: liudanao1991, Michelle-Maria on Pixabay.