Situated in the heart of the Latin Quarter, on the left bank of the Seine, the Jardins de Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens) offer a breath of fresh air in this busy city, for locals and visitors alike.
The local area gets its name ‘Latin Quarter’ from the fact that it is home to one of the oldest universities in France, the Sorbonne, where the students historically did all their learning in Latin. Today, France’s brightest learn in their mother tongue, but the name and the intellectual café culture remain – you can find some of the best book shops in Paris lining the banks of the river.
The gardens themselves follow the beautifully landscaped traditions of French design. Originally forming the grounds of the neighbouring Luxembourg Palace, today they are open to all, and there is plenty of fun to be had for all the family here – from sipping a coffee and playing chess at the tables dotted around, to catching some rays, to splashing in the boating lake and enjoying a pony ride. In the summer months, the bandstand hosts free classical music concerts.
The park is filled with objects of interest – natural delights include an orchard and an apiary, while there are more than a hundred statues here, including busts of notable figures such as novelists Baudelaire and George Sand, and the composer Beethoven. The fountain is particularly notable, featuring French sculptor Auguste Ottin’s famous work, Polyphemus Surprising Acis and Galatea.
The Luxembourg Garden is located in the 6th arrondissement. Entry is free, but a small fee applies for the children’s play area. Opening hours vary, so check online before going.
