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Paris is a city rich in history, boasting beautiful architecture, and home to countless skillfully designed city parks and gardens throughout. The gardens of Paris are perfect for meeting with friends and locals, people watching, and resting your tired feet after a day of exploring the city.
Located on the Left Bank in the heart of the Latin Quarter is Jardin de Luxembourg, Paris’ largest public park. To get to Jardin de Luxembourg, the closest metro stop is Odéon. Or if you’re taking the RER, simply get off at the Luxembourg stop.
Probably the best park for children, the Luxembourg Gardens offers a playground, puppet theater, and an old fashioned carousel. A few small restaurants are located within the gardens where you can stop for a light lunch, a cup of coffee, or a glass of wine.
The Medici Fountain reflects the Italian heritage of Queen Marie de Medici, while statues of the Queens of France and other noble women regally overlook the pool.
Just outside the doors of the Louvre museum is Jardin des Tuileries. From here, the gardens extend along the Right Bank of the Seine all the way to the Place de la Concorde and the beginning of the avenue de Champs-Élysées. Here you will find flowers, rows of trees, plenty of paths for walking, and fountains. Fun Fact: The first hot air balloon launched from Jardin des Tuileries in December 1783.
Also located close to the Louvre are the gardens at Palais Royale.
Off to the side of the central gardens, we saw some individuals playing bocce ball, a popular leisurely sport among grown men in Paris.
The Rodin Museum, although not technically a public city garden, has beautiful grounds, including rose gardens and a stunning fountain with a variety of bronze statues.
The most recognizable of Rodin’s work is the famous “The Thinker” statue.
Because we were only in Paris for a few days, we weren’t able to experience all of the city’s relaxing gardens. Guess that means we’ll just have to go back some day!
For a (printable) quick-reference destination guide to what we did during our entire stay in Paris (where we stayed, what and where we ate, activities, money saving tips, etc.), click here.