Jardin du Luxembourg

Main access 2 rue Auguste Compte 6th. (Open Map)
(75)

Description

The Luxembourg Gardens in Paris is a beloved inner-city oasis of formal terraces, chestnut groves, and lush lawns. Napoleon dedicated the 23 hectares of the Luxembourg Gardens to the children of Paris, making it a great place for families to explore. Significantly, activities such as prodding boats with sticks in the octagonal Grand Bassin pond, puppet shows, a carrousel (merry-go-round), and pony rides are still available, in addition to modern playgrounds and sporting and games venues. The gardens are also home to dozens of apple varieties in its south orchards and a Rucher du Luxembourg where honey is produced since the 19th century. Moreover, lemon and orange trees, palms, grenadiers, and oleanders can be found in the palace's orangery.

The backdrop of the Luxembourg Gardens is the Palais du Luxembourg, which was built in the 1620s for Marie de Médici. Since 1958 the palace has housed the Sénat, the Upper House of French Parliament, which is occasionally visitable by guided tour. East of the palace is the Italianate, 1630-built Fontaine des Médici, an ornate fish pond. Also nearby is the Hôtel du Petit Luxembourg, a 16th-century residence of Marie de Médici, and the home of the president of the Senate since 1825.

Entry to the park is free, but there is a fee to enter the Musée du Luxembourg, which hosts prestigious temporary art exhibitions. Opening hours vary throughout the year, with seasonal entry times posted at entrance gates.