If you’re heading to Paris, do yourself a favor and visit Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg). Trust me, it’s one of those spots that’ll make you think, “Why didn’t I know about this sooner?” Seriously, it’s a little slice of heaven in the heart of the city – and if you don’t go, you’ll probably regret it while you’re battling crowds at the Eiffel Tower.
First off, the garden is absolutely gorgeous. It’s like a Pinterest board come to life: perfectly manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and statues everywhere (because who doesn’t want to be surrounded by historic French art while they take a stroll?). And then there’s the Luxembourg Palace, which isn’t just impressive – it’s where the French Senate hangs out. So yes, real French politics happen here. (I won’t blame you if you start fantasizing about being invited for tea with the senators while you’re walking around.)
The Medici Fountain is like the garden’s crown jewel. It’s got this romantic Renaissance vibe, and I dare you not to snap a dozen pictures of it. There’s also a bunch of statues dotted around the park that are more “We’ve got a rich history and look how cool we are” than you’d expect. You’ll probably end up standing there wondering if the French had time for anything but art and culture.
Bottom line: If you want to experience the real Paris – without the selfie stick crowds – Luxembourg Gardens is your spot. It’s like the city’s best-kept secret, except, well, it’s not much of a secret anymore. But go anyway, you’ll thank me later!
Basic Information
Opening Hours and Ticket Information
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Ticket Price: Free
- Luxembourg Gardens adjusts its opening hours biweekly to align with sunrise and sunset times, and it changes every fornight. Generally Speaking, it can be summarized as following:
- Winter (November–February): Opens around 8:00–8:15 AM and closes between 4:30–5:45 PM.
- Spring (March–May): Opens at 7:30–8:00 AM and closes between 5:45 PM–9:00 PM.
- Summer (June–August): Opens at 7:30 AM and closes between 8:15 PM–9:30 PM.
- Autumn (September–October): Opens around 7:30–7:45 AM and closes between 5:15–7:30 PM.
- Musée du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Museum)
- Ticket Price: €13
- Only open to the public during its temporary exhibitions
- Tuesday-Sunday: 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Monday: 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Closed on December 25th and May 1st
- Luxembourg Palace
- Typically not open to the public, except on special occasions
How to Get to Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are located in the heart of the 6th arrondissement in Paris. a charming and vibrant district on the Left Bank of the River Seine. Its exact address is 6 Place Edmond Rostand, 75006 Paris, France.
Getting There by Metro
- Line 12 (Green Line): Get off at Notre-Dame-des-Champs station, which is about 5-minute walk.
- Line 4 (Purple Line): Get off at Vavin Station, which is about 8-minute walk to the gardens.
- Line 10 (Yellow Line): Get off at Odéon Station, which is about a 5-10 minute walk to the gardens.
- Line 6 (Light Green Line): Get off at Raspail Station, which within walking distance (about 10 minutes).
By RER (Regional Express Train)
- RER B: Get off at Luxembourg Station. It’s a great option if you’re coming from the airport (Charles de Gaulle or Orly) or other locations in the Paris region.
Getting There by Bus
- Bus Line 21, 24, 27, 38, 82, 84, 89, N14, N21, N122, and N123 all Stop at Luxembourg station, directly by the gardens.
Getting There by Boat (Batobus)
- If you want to add a little flair to your visit, you can take the Batobus, a boat shuttle on the Seine River. While it doesn’t stop directly at Luxembourg Gardens, you can get off at Saint-Germain-des-Prés and then walk a few minutes to the gardens.
Things to Do and See at Luxembourg Gardens
Stroll Through the Gardens
One of the best things about Luxembourg Gardens is how peaceful it is. It’s a place you’ll want to wander through slowly, taking in every corner. The park covers 23 hectares and features beautifully manicured lawns, grand tree-lined paths, fountains, and flowerbeds. A favorite area for visitors is the Allée de l’Observatoire, a long, wide pathway lined with statues, leading towards the south of the park.
A standout feature is the Medici Fountain (built in 1620), which is one of the most romantic spots in the garden. The fountain was commissioned by Marie de Médici, the widow of King Henry IV, as part of her palace renovations. It’s a serene spot, surrounded by statues and lush greenery, and it’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a historical postcard.
Admire the Statues
If you’re a fan of art or history, Luxembourg Gardens will definitely be a treat. There are over 100 statues scattered throughout the park, each one telling a story of French history or adding whimsy to the landscape. A must-see is the Statue of Liberty. This smaller version of the famous U.S. statue is a symbol of the historical ties between the U.S. and France. Another notable sculpture is the Statue of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, located in the northern part of the garden. This statue honors the famous French philosopher and is just one of many tributes to historical figures in the park.
You’ll also find statues representing French kings, queens, and revolutionaries, offering a glimpse into the nation’s cultural history. Some statues are more whimsical, like the playful Fountain of the Innocents, while others like the Bust of King Louis XIV exude grandeur and royal symbolism.
Explore Luxembourg Palace
At the heart of the gardens is the Luxembourg Palace, built between 1615 and 1627 under the orders of Marie de Médici, who wanted a palace inspired by the Pitti Palace in Florence. The architecture is classic Renaissance style, and it’s still a working government building – it houses the French Senate today. While you can’t go inside (it’s a working government building, after all), the exterior is stunning and well worth a closer look.
From the front of the palace, you can enjoy a view down the Grand Allée, a grand avenue that runs the length of the park. It’s a beautiful walk, especially with the statue-lined path and the looming palace in the background.
Visit the Luxembourg Museum
For a dose of culture, you must check out the Luxembourg Museum. Housed in the former Palais du Luxembourg, the museum was initially built in the 17th century to house the French Senate but was transformed into a museum in the 19th century. This intimate museum focuses on contemporary and classical art and hosts rotating exhibitions on everything from French art to historical collections.
The museum is a must-see for art lovers, especially since it often showcases pieces from Flemish, Dutch, and French artists. While smaller in size compared to major Parisian museums like the Louvre, it offers a more accessible and less crowded experience.
Sail a Boat in the Grand Basin
This is the quintessential Luxembourg Gardens experience. The Grand Basin is the large pond in the center of the park, and it’s home to the famous boat sailing tradition. You can rent a small wooden boat and send it floating across the water using a long wooden stick. Kids absolutely love it, but honestly, it’s a fun and relaxing activity for adults, too. It’s a charming experience, and it’s one of those rare moments that’ll make you feel like a kid again. The fare is about 8 euros per half hour. why not give it a try?
Discover the Orangery and Greenhouses
Another great spot is the Orangery, which is tucked away on the southern side of the gardens. Originally designed as a shelter for the garden’s citrus trees during the winter months, this glass building is filled with fragrant plants and trees year-round. It’s a peaceful, quiet corner of the gardens that’s perfect if you need a break from the crowds. The air inside the Orangery is often sweet with the smell of blooming flowers, and it’s one of the more tranquil spaces to enjoy.
Luxembourg Gardens also features greenhouses that are home to exotic plants, such as tropical species and orchids. While these are less visited than other parts of the garden, they provide a cool retreat in the summer months.
Take the Kids to the Puppet Theatre
If you’re visiting with kids, be sure to stop by the Guignol Puppet Theatre located in the gardens. This beloved puppet show has been a staple in the park for over a century (established in 1933). The traditional puppetry is based on classic French folklore and features charming characters, fun plots, and playful humor. The shows are geared toward children but are enjoyable for all ages.
Shows are usually in the afternoon, and tickets are affordable for families. The venue has a whimsical atmosphere, and attending a show can be a delightful part of your Luxembourg Gardens visit.
Grab a Coffee at a Café
Once you’ve explored the gardens, you’ll probably want to relax with a cup of coffee. Fortunately, there are several cafés in and around Luxembourg Gardens. My favorite is Café de la Fontaine, located near the Medici Fountain. Grab a table outside, order a coffee and croissant, and just enjoy the view of the fountain and the lush gardens. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching, too. Parisians gather here all day long to chat, read, and relax.
Best Time to Visit Luxembourg Gardens
Best Views Throughout the Year
Spring (March to May): The rose garden starts to bloom in late spring, and the cherry blossoms create a soft, pastel-colored backdrop. The Medici Fountain and the surrounding greenery look especially lush during this time.
Summer (June to August): The Orangery section looks particularly striking during summer, as it’s filled with vibrant greenery and flowers. The Grand Basin is lively with people sailing boats, offering great opportunities for candid photos.
Autumn (September to November): he changing colors of the trees, especially in the Allée de l’Observatoire and along the walkways leading to the Luxembourg Palace, provide a rich, dramatic backdrop for photography. The Medici Fountain surrounded by golden foliage is also spectacular.
Winter (December to February): The starkness of winter offers a different kind of beauty, with the Luxembourg Palace standing out against a backdrop of bare trees. The Medici Fountain looks more atmospheric with the muted light and less foliage around it. The greenhouses also provide an interesting contrast to the cold, with their tropical plants and exotic blooms.
Best Time of Day for Photography
Morning: Early morning is always a great time for photography in the gardens, particularly during spring and summer, when the light is soft and the park is less crowded. This is a good time to catch the Luxembourg Palace and Medici Fountain in beautiful golden light, and to get serene shots of the lawns and pathways without the midday crowds.
Late Afternoon / Golden Hour: The golden hour is the period just before sunset, typically from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (depending on the season). During this time, the gardens glow with warm, golden light that adds magic to your photos. The lower sun creates a beautiful contrast on the flowerbeds, fountains, and statues.
A Brief History of Luxembourg Gardens
Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) has a fascinating history intertwined with French royal heritage, artistic influence, and a long tradition of public enjoyment. The gardens were created in 1612 under the direction of Marie de’ Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France, when she moved into the Luxembourg Palace, which was built for her as a residence. Inspired by the grand gardens of her native Florence, particularly the Boboli Gardens, Marie de’ Medici wanted to recreate the elegance of Italian Renaissance gardens in Paris.
Initially, the garden was designed in the Italian formal style, with geometric patterns, symmetrical paths, fountains, and statues, as well as a large basin for boating, which remains a popular feature today. The plan was executed by the architect Salomon de Brosse, who also designed the Luxembourg Palace. Over the years, the garden underwent several transformations. In the late 17th century, Le Nôtre, the famous landscape architect who designed the gardens of Versailles, made modifications, adding to the design’s grandeur.
During the French Revolution (1789-1799), the garden became a public space and was no longer exclusive to royalty. It was officially opened to the public in 1792, during a period of profound social and political change. The palace itself served various purposes, including being the seat of the Senate of the French Fifth Republic from the 19th century onwards.
In the 19th century, the gardens began to reflect the evolving tastes of French horticulture. Under the direction of Jean Chalgrin and later Alfred Carrié, the gardens were expanded with the addition of flowerbeds, lawns, and wooded areas, giving it the more naturalistic feel it has today. During the Napoleonic era, the gardens also hosted outdoor sculptures and statues celebrating historical figures, many of which are still in place.
So, if you want to experience a bit of Parisian history, relaxation, and sheer beauty, don’t pass up the Luxembourg Gardens. It’s one of those spots where you can easily lose track of time – and I promise, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Paris.
Five Attractions Nearby to Enrich Your Day
Pantheon
- Distance: About a 5-minute walk (0.4 km) from Luxembourg Gardens
- Address: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
- Closed on January 1st and May 1st
- Ticket Price: €11.50
- Highlights: The Pantheon is a neoclassical masterpiece and now serves as a mausoleum for many famous French figures, such as Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Victor Hugo. Its grand dome and impressive architecture are perfect for photography, and inside, you can explore the crypt where the nation’s greats rest.
Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church
- Distance: About a 5-minute walk (0.5 km) from Luxembourg Gardens
- Address: 75005 Paris, France
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Ticket Price: Free (donations are welcome)
- Highlights: This beautiful church is home to the famous St. Genevieve relics and boasts a unique organ as well as a stunning wooden pulpit. The rose window and stained glass provide a peaceful atmosphere.
Cluny Museum – National Museum of the Middle Ages
- Distance: About a 12-minute walk (1 km) from Luxembourg Gardens
- Address: 6 Place Paul Painlevé, 75005 Paris, France
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:15 AM – 5:45 PM
- Closed on Mondays and public holidays
- Ticket Price: €9
- Highlights: If you’re a fan of medieval history, the Cluny Museum is an absolute must. The museum is housed in a medieval mansion and contains an incredible collection of Romanesque and Gothic art, as well as medieval tapestries, including the famous “Lady and the Unicorn” series.
Musée de la Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
- Distance: A 15-minute walk (1.2 km) from Luxembourg Gardens
- Address: 11 Quai de Conti, 75006 Paris, France
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays and public holidays
- Ticket Price: €11
- Highlights: The Musée de la Monnaie is an interesting museum where you can explore the history of coinage and currency in France. It’s not just a museum for numismatics but also showcases art exhibitions and beautiful architectural features, such as the Chambre de la Monnaie, where coins were minted.
La Sorbonne
- Distance: About a 5-minute walk (0.5 km) from Luxembourg Gardens
- Address: 47 Rue de la Sorbonne, 75005 Paris, France
- Opening Hours: Open to the public during events; check for specific timings and closures on the university website.
- Ticket Price: Free to visit public areas, but events may have a ticket price.
- Highlights: The Sorbonne is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, and it exudes a sense of intellectual history. While it is an active university, you can still admire its beautiful architecture, stroll through its courtyards, and perhaps catch one of the many cultural or academic events hosted throughout the year.
Five Highly-Rated Hotels Near Luxembourg Gardens
1. Hotel Luxembourg Parc
- Distance to Luxembourg Gardens: 2-minute walk (150 meters)
- Address: 42 Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris, France
- Average Cost: €250 – €400 per night
- Features: Guests can enjoy a private garden, and the hotel offers a full breakfast served in a charming dining room and personalized services, including a concierge, room service, and a fitness center. The hotel offers.
2. Hotel Des Grands Hommes
- Distance to Luxembourg Gardens: 10-minute walk (750 meters)
- Address: 17 Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
- Average Cost: €190 – €300 per night
- Features: Hotel Des Grands Hommes offers rooms with classic French furnishings, some featuring views of the Pantheon. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast with fresh pastries and hot beverages.
3. La Perle Hotel
- Distance to Luxembourg Gardens: 10-minute walk (800 meters)
- Address: 14 Rue de la Perle, 75003 Paris, France
- Average Cost: €180 – €250 per night
- Features: The hotel has a stylish bar and is located near excellent cafes and restaurants. Its terrace offers a relaxing spot for guests to unwind. The 24-hour reception and concierge service make it an excellent choice for those seeking a personal touch to their stay.
4. Hotel les Dames du Panthéon
- Distance to Luxembourg Gardens: 10-minute walk (800 meters)
- Address: 17 Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
- Average Cost: €250 – €400 per night
- Features: The hotel is named after the famous Panthéon, located just across the street. The rooms are uniquely decorated with a mix of vintage Parisian and contemporary touches. The bar and lounge area offer a relaxed atmosphere, and a continental breakfast is served in the dining area, featuring fresh croissants, pastries, and more.
5. Hotel Le Royal Saint-Michel
- Distance to Luxembourg Gardens: 12-minute walk (1 kilometer)
- Address: 1 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris, France
- Average Cost: €200 – €350 per night
- Features: The hotel is housed in a historic building, featuring spacious, elegantly decorated rooms equipped with air conditioning, minibar, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. There’s a 24-hour front desk and the hotel offers a daily continental breakfast with an extensive selection of pastries and fresh fruits.