Set in a stunning 23 hectares of land, the Luxembourg Gardens is a popular destination with both locals and visitors. Originally the grounds of a royal palace, today it is a hub of the city where people come to relax and get away from the bustle of the city, amidst its lush surroundings.
When you visit in summer, you’ll notice the students from the nearby Sorbonne University relaxing on the lush lawns children splashing around in the boating lake or taking a ride on the ponies or the carousel and Parisian workers having some well-deserved rest, some playing chess on the shaded tables.
The gardens come into their own during the summer months, as concerts are held here in the gazebo. There’s also the Luxembourg Museum, which is nestled to the north west of the gardens: two large exhibitions are held here every year, making it a good spot to explore if you want to stay out of the sun. There’s also the apiary, orchard and puppet theatre to enjoy.
Dotted around the garden is a number of historic monuments. Various statues have been erected here over the years, as has the well-known and greatly-loved Medici Fountain, decorated with the famous work of French sculptor Auguste Ottin, 'Polyphemus Surprising Acis and Galatea'.
Look out for Frederic August Bartholdi's model of the Statue of Liberty and sculptures dedicated to famous artistic figures such as Baudelaire, Beethoven and George Sand. Watch the world go by at the café located in the gardens. Pick up a baguette, grab a cool drink, delve into a book or simply watch the locals come and go for a while.
Situated in the 6th arrondissement, Luxembourg Gardens is free to enter, though the children's playground charges a fee. Opening hours can vary depending on the time of year, so it’s best to check times on the website before you visit. Today, the park also serves as the garden for the French Senate which is housed in the Luxembourg Palace.
