The Luxembourg Gardens, also known as the Jardin du Luxembourg, is a private garden open to the public, located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France. It covers 23 hectares and is known for its lawns, tree-lined promenades, flowerbeds, model sailboats on its circular basin, and the picturesque Medici Fountain.
The Luxembourg Gardens were created in 1612 by Marie de' Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France, for a new residence she constructed, the Luxembourg Palace. The gardens were styled after the Boboli Gardens in Florence and were opened to the public at the end of the 19th century.
Main attractions include the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate, the Medici Fountain, statues of French queens and other notable women, various fountains, the Orangerie and the Sénat greenhouses. The gardens also have a large pond where children can rent miniature boats, tennis courts, and chess, bridge, and pétanque areas.
While visitors can enjoy the gardens and bring a small snack or a book to read on the lawns or by the fountains, traditional picnicking with blankets and a full meal spread is not allowed. There are designated areas where sitting on the grass is permitted, typically indicated by signs.
The Luxembourg Gardens host a variety of events throughout the year including concerts, exhibitions, and the traditional puppet shows for children. The garden's bandstand regularly features free musical performances during the warmer months. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the current schedule.
No, entrance to the Luxembourg Gardens is free of charge. Visitors can freely walk through the grounds during its opening hours.
The Luxembourg Gardens are beautiful throughout the year, but they are particularly stunning in the spring when the flowers are in bloom and in the autumn when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather in Paris during these seasons is also generally mild and pleasant for strolling outdoors.
The Luxembourg Gardens' opening hours vary throughout the year, typically from sunrise to sunset. It usually opens between 7:30-8:15 am and closes between 4:30-9:30 pm, depending on the season. It's recommended to check the current hours before planning a visit.
Professional photography may require prior authorization and a permit from the French Senate if it involves extensive equipment or disruption. The use of drones is generally prohibited in Paris, especially in public parks like the Luxembourg Gardens, due to security and privacy concerns.
Luxembourg Gardens are easily accessible using Paris public transportation. Visitors can take the Metro to the Luxembourg station on line RER B. The gardens are also within walking distance from several other metro stations, including Saint-Sulpice (Line 4), Mabillon (Line 10), and Odeon (Lines 4 and 10).
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