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Jardin des Plantes
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The Jardin des Plantes in Paris was established in 1626 by order of King Louis XIII as the Royal Garden of Medicinal Plants and opened to the public in 1635. Spanning approximately 28 hectares in the 5th arrondissement, it serves as the main site of the National Museum of Natural History. The grounds feature diverse thematic areas, such as the Alpine Garden, the Rose Garden, and grand 19th-century greenhouses containing rare tropical specimens. A significant landmark within the garden is the Menagerie, founded in 1794, making it one of the oldest scientific zoos in existence. The garden continues to play a vital role in botanical research and public education while preserving its rich architectural and natural heritage.
- Location: Île-de-France, France
- Top sights: Rue Mouffetard · Église Saint-Médard · Square Miss.Tic
- Nearby: Ivry-sur-Seine (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 16 | 12 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 54 | 50 | 52 | 39 | 64 | 60 | 55 | 59 | 42 | 57 | 61 | 69 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This garden in the heart of Paris is conveniently accessible via several Metro stations, such as Gare d'Austerlitz, and numerous nearby bus stops.
Best season
A year-round destination; spring and summer are handy for the outdoor areas, while the historic greenhouses provide fascinating sights even in winter.
Terrain & paths
The grounds of this scientific institution consist of wide, flat, and even pathways that are easily navigable for visitors of all ages.
What to bring
Normal street shoes are perfectly adequate; when visiting the tropical greenhouses, wearing lighter clothing is pleasant due to the high humidity.
Parking
Central parking garages are available but costly; traveling via the well-developed Parisian public transport network is highly recommended for this location.
Safety
A very safe facility; it is important to respect the boundaries of the planted beds, as this represents a significant scientific botanical collection.
Time needed
Expect to spend two to three hours for the outdoor areas and greenhouses, excluding the time needed for the museums also located on the premises.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1626 as the royal medicinal herb garden under Louis XIII.
- The total area of the garden covers approximately 28 hectares.
- It houses the headquarters of the National Museum of Natural History.
- The Menagerie was opened in 1794, among the oldest zoos in the world.
- The Alpine Garden contains over 2,000 species of mountain plants.
- The historic greenhouses were largely constructed during the 1830s.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Jardin des Plantes (10)
The black gallery
Modern art gallery in the 5th arrondissement of Paris.
Atelier Jacques Camus
Studio and gallery of sculptor Jacques Camus.
Espace des Sciences Pierre-Gilles de Gennes🏛 museum
Science center with interactive exhibitions in Paris.
Théâtre Mouffetard
Theater in France, specializing in contemporary plays.
Le Mouffetard
Parisian theater hosting drama and performance art.
Espace Rachi - Guy de Rothschild
Jewish cultural center, named after Guy de Rothschild.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much is entry to the garden?
Access to the main garden is free; museums and the menagerie have fees.
What is the Menagerie?
One of the oldest zoos in the world, located right inside the garden.
When do the cherry trees bloom?
The famous cherry blossom in the orchard usually takes place in April.
Where is the nearest Metro stop?
Gare d'Austerlitz (lines 5, 10) or Jussieu (lines 7, 10) are nearby.
Can you visit the greenhouses?
Yes, the magnificent "Grandes Serres" display plants from various climates.
Jardin des Plantes: where is it located?
Jardin des Plantes is located in Île-de-France, France.
Jardin des Plantes: what is there to see?
Highlights include Rue Mouffetard, Église Saint-Médard, Square Miss.Tic.
Jardin des Plantes: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Jardin des Plantes: why is it worth visiting?
The Jardin des Plantes in Paris was established in 1626 by order of King Louis XIII as the Royal Garden of Medicinal Plants and opened to the public in 1635.
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