I am going to explore one of my most refreshing places in Paris: Luxembourg Garden. I organized my blog with some important questions and Interesting facts about this place.
All sorts of feelings arise when one visits the Luxembourg Gardens and the most prevalent would have to be how one would perceive that time has been instantly suspended.
However, upon an afternoon there, I would argue that it is the most important attraction of Paris. I understand that, next time you plan a trip to the City of Light, you will include the beautiful park in your itinerary, as I did. And you will know about Luxembourg Gardens’ entry price.
Assuming Parisian style, I self-consciously stepped out to a cool autumn morning, with all the clear slant and appeal that chilly mornings have, the streets buzzing but noisily in a warm embrace.
Resuming the famous One-Six programs, I had a very simple plan: coffee and a croissant – mission accomplished, lovely stroll around the Latin Quarter, then finally make it to the renowned Luxembourg Gardens. To be honest, I heard about the park and most travelers that I traded with but did not imagine it would be any striking feature to me.
The First Glimpse: A Green Oasis in the Latin Quarter
You know how sometimes you fantasize about a place and then it doesn’t live to your expectations? Well, it was not the case here. Approaching the Luxembourg Gardens, or Jardin du Luxembourg as it is called by the locals, I felt I was being pulled in by the sight of the tall trees and the open space.
There was something about the low murmur of voices, children’s laughter and rustling of leaves that made it seem like I had stumbled upon an enclosed nook in the beautiful city of Paris.
And the best part? No one has to pay for the Luxembourg Gardens entry price! It is open for all who wish to avail of it for free, although a ticket may be required for some of the exhibitions inside.
Walking back in time: Origin of the Luxembourg Gardens
History lovers, like myself, excel at places with rich history as you are about to be wowed. The Jardin du Luxembourg was created in the 17th century at the behest of Marie de’ Medici, the widow of King Henry IV who had a desire to build a Palace and Gardens reminiscent of her childhood home of Florence.
The Luxembourg Palace, now the home of the French upper house of parliament, looms right at the center of this beautiful garden park, and every way, every fountain, and every sculpture is an extension of the French breed and Italian culture.
While strolling around and getting lost in the gardens, I came across something that took me by surprise, the Luxembourg Garden Statue of Liberty. Oh yeah, believe it or not! A mini statue of Liberty which was surrounded by shrubbery and flowers was really random, yet quite interesting at the same time.
My Favorite Moments: Picnicking, Statues, Boat Ride Indeed, a perfect day with family
The Gardens of Luxembourg isn’t just about its historical dimension and the impressive palace, it’s a site that possessed something within all. I took a position at the Medici Fountain, one of the most romantic spots in many parks and for an hour, just watched people which was quite relaxing.
I was quite as surprised as many would be by the Parisian Park culture where people used the parks as an extended sitting room. Locals brought food, and there were students with books and sketch pads. It was a place for thought, poetry, or even love but most importantly, it was about practice.
One of the pictures that I enjoyed most was that of babies pushing small wooden boats on the water that existed in front of the palace on its large pond. These Jardin de Luxembourg boats have been in this place for over a century.
All those scenes where I watched those young kids merrily pushing their little boats around the pond gave me some nice simple pleasures that have nothing to do with our constant staring at the screens.
And for families traveling with children, the playground at Jardin du Luxembourg is a must! There is also an interesting part where children are let loose and parents are left to rest on the grass. Even amidst all of those activities in the park, a certain level of peace is maintained within it.
Staying Around the Luxembourg Gardens
For the purpose of not wasting any time when you visit this breathtaking section of Paris, it is advisable to book accommodation in the vicinity. In particular, the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés districts are relatively close, offering numerous accommodation facilities in case you wish to save money or splurge on good hotels.
- Hôtel Luxembourg Parc: This stylish boutique-styled hotel is situated almost right outside the very green section of Paris and thus is very vivacious. With a well-rounded price and a fitting atmosphere, one can enjoy being at the center of things. Here costs are moderate and roughly 200 euros.
- Hôtel des Grands Hommes: To those that would love to get an extra frill on their up netting the hotel then overlooking Pantheon gives a whole new level insite less than a few blocks away from the gardens. Charges begin at around 250 euros and for a city like this – it’s worth indulging yourself into.
Let’s Talk Dining: Great Cafes And Restaurants
Lastly, every citizen or tourist in Paris has to experience one of the best cuisines in the world. This time, I located the Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a few minutes’ walk away, where one can have a sandwich or just order a cup of coffee.
The setting is quite Parisian in that it has a good mixture of tourists and locals sitting at the tables. For something more classically French, Le Procope is one of the oldest cafes in Paris and has a great place for a more ladylike lunch.
However, if you are on the go or are looking for some delicious Paris quick bites, try looking for a crêpe stand by the Luxembourg Gardens. It was lovely to munch on these snacks as we strolled around the paths or even sat on some of the many statues inside the park.
Practical Tips: Luxembourg Gardens Travel on a Budget
The good news? Would anyone believe me, if I said that the Luxembourg Gardens does not have to do any major small alterations to ensure that the place stays attractive? All because, there is no Luxembourg Gardens entry fee so it’s quite possible to enjoy the park’s thick greenery, fountains, and sculptures and still remain within the one euro mark.
Even the recreation centers do not charge that much eg one begging an inch to rent a boat or for viewing the puppets from the Luxembourg Gardens show.
If more artistic activities intrigue you, there are usually free displays or inexpensive music performances that occur frequently in the Orangerie or at the Luxembourg Museum. They are also advertised with posters that are distributed all around the park or banners prepare in advance, so you could see the updated schedule staff has made.
As for the means of transportation, there is no difficulty in reaching the Luxembourg Gardens. The Luxembourg Station is the last stop in the RER B train line while a few bus lines will be able to drop you off right at the main gate. The public transportation system in Paris is, in my opinion, artfully working and cost effective, as I purchased a one way ticket for €1.90.
When to Visit: The Best Time to Enjoy the Gardens
I went during fall, and I must say, that is the best season I have had so far. The trees combined a little yellow, a little orange and other colors to enforce the beauty of the scene.
Having said this, I guess the spring is also equally beautiful with the blooming flowers. The operating hours of the park will of course depend on the time of year but in general, the park stays open with the Luxembourg Gardens Paris hours indicated sun up to sun down.
For those traveling to Paris in winter, you don’t have any need to panic – the charm of Luxembourg Gardens winter lies in the harmony and chill in the environment. Lesser people to gather allows more room for deep thinking.
FAQs:
What is the Luxembourg Gardens entry fee?
Entry to Luxembourg Gardens is free. The park is not charged for presence however, some exhibition spaces are chargeable.
Is it permissible to sit on grass in the Luxembourg Gardens?
Yes, but only in areas marked for sitting. Sunbathing and picnic patches are available while the rest of the lawn corners are fenced in for grass conservation.
How long is Luxembourg Gardens open to the public?
Of course, the rest hours of the gardens vary with the seasons, but in most cases, are from dawn, or even earlier, to dusk.
Where is the Statue of Liberty situated in Luxembourg Gardens France?
Indeed! The park features a miniature Statue of Liberty statue, which is fascinating as she sits amongst other sculptures in the park.
What can you do in Luxembourg Gardens during the winter season?
Luxembourg Gardens tends to be less noisy than usual during winter but still gorgeous. You can take peaceful walks, go to museums or burn couches with hot drinks.
Can you please tell me whether there are fun things in Luxembourg Gardens for children as well?
Of course the park is very child friendly as it has a playground, puppet shows and even Jardin de Luxembourg boats which the kids can sail.
Final Thoughts: My Crushing Love For Luxembourg Gardens
There are few places in the heart of Paris that can be compared to Luxembourg Gardens. It is here where time, artwork, nature, and activities come together perfectly.
It can be about lounging in a center fountain, feasting at a picnic or simply enjoying a walk through the park – this park is something special. What is even better? It does not cost much.
Paris is filled with so many tourist hotspots that visiting sometimes feels like too much. But the Luxembourg Gardens is a much more quiet and personal part of the city that is like a little holiday within the bigger one within the city of Luxemburg.
So, if you will be in Paris in the future, and you want to visit Luxembourg Gardens, make sure you spare one battery for that place. Pick a book, take snacks and immerse yourself in the peace of the place. I assure you, it is something you will never forget.
