Jardin des Plantes, Ile De France Travel Guide

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Explore a historic botanical garden in Paris with diverse plant collections, fascinating museums, and a charming zoo, perfect for all ages.

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Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes, located in Paris's 5th arrondissement, is a sprawling botanical garden with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Originally a medicinal herb garden for the king, it has evolved into a leading center for scientific research and public education, boasting diverse gardens, museums, and even a zoo.

A brief summary to Jardin des Plantes

Monday 8 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm
Friday 8 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 8 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 8 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jardin des Plantes.

Allow ample time to explore the extensive gardens and museums; a complete visit can easily take several hours.
Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
Check the Jardin des Plantes' official website for the latest information on opening hours, exhibitions, and events.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the gardens.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, or visit one of the park's food kiosks.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Jardin des Plantes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Jardin des Plantes, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Jardin des Plantes is accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 5 or 10 to Gare d'Austerlitz, or Line 7 or 10 to Jussieu station. From either station, it's a short walk to the garden entrance. A single metro ticket costs €2.10.
Bus

Several bus lines serve the Jardin des Plantes. Bus lines 24, 57, 61, 63, 67, 89, and 91 all have stops near the garden. A single bus ticket also costs €2.10.
Walking

The Jardin des Plantes is located near many other attractions in Paris's 5th arrondissement. If you are nearby, walking is a pleasant way to reach the garden. From the Panthéon, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. From Notre Dame, it's about a 25-minute walk.

Discover more about Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes, a 28-hectare botanical garden in the heart of Paris, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and scientific exploration. Founded in 1635 as the Jardin du Roi, a medicinal herb garden for Louis XIII, it quickly became a hub for botanists, pharmacists, and other scientists.Today, the Jardin des Plantes is home to a remarkable array of attractions. Wander through diverse gardens, including a rose garden with over 170 types of European roses, an alpine garden showcasing plants from mountain regions worldwide, and an ecological garden representing the natural environments of the Paris Basin. Explore the Grandes Serres, large greenhouses displaying exotic vegetation.The garden also houses several branches of the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle (National Museum of Natural History), including the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution, which features an impressive display of stuffed animals and skeletons. Visit the Ménagerie, one of the world's oldest zoos, home to a variety of animals.With its blend of history, science, and natural beauty, the Jardin des Plantes offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're strolling through the gardens, exploring the museums, or simply relaxing by the ponds, you're sure to find something to inspire and delight you.