The Jardin du Luxembourg was founded in 1612 and lies in the middle of Paris, a short ride on the Metro or RER B. Its opening and closing times follow the daylight and change every fortnight, so a long evening visit is possible in summer in a way it is not in winter.
For children, the garden splits into two kinds of fun. Sandboxes, chess tables, a basketball court and a downloadable treasure hunt for children cost nothing. The trade-off is that the attractions children tend to ask for, the playground, swings, sailboats, carousel, ponies and puppet show, are all paid, and their prices are not listed in advance. There is also a paid halte-garderie, a drop-in day nursery, in the garden.
Free public toilets are housed in chalets inside the garden, and there are places to eat on site, though what they serve is not specified. On Sunday mornings you can watch longue paume matches and training sessions. Outside a dedicated dog zone in the south-east corner, dogs are not allowed in the garden.
Family FAQ
What are the opening hours of Jardin du Luxembourg?
Hours change every 15 days with sunrise and sunset, from 7:30–21:30 in late June to 8:15–16:30 in late December.
Where are the toilets at Jardin du Luxembourg?
Free public toilets in chalets inside the garden.
