Jardin des Plantes travel guide

Steeped in history, Jardin des plantes, or Garden of Plants, is the main botanical garden in France. Founded in 1626 as a medicinal herb garden by King Louis XIII's doctor, Guy de La Brosse, its purpose was to cultivate healing plants and educate medical students.

In 1739, the garden was officially classified as a Royal Garden of Medicinal Plants and expanded to include foreign plants from French explorers. In 1793, it became the first public zoo, the Ménagerie du Jardin des plantes, and was also home to the first public natural history museum.

The garden underwent significant transformation in the 19th century under the direction of Jean-Baptiste de Monet de Lamarck, who introduced the concept of evolution within the garden layout. Today, the Jardin des plantes is a testament to centuries of exploration and learning, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of botanical and zoological history.

Jardin des plantes is not just an ordinary botanical garden, it's a world of biodiversity that is home to a variety of unique attractions. This includes the 'Ménagerie', the oldest public zoo in the world that houses nearly 180 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. A standout feature of the garden is the 'Grande Galerie de l'Évolution', an imposing structure housing thousands of animal specimens, designed to promote understanding of evolution.

The garden also boasts several historic glasshouses such as the Art Deco Winter Garden and the Mexican Greenhouse, each showcasing diverse plant life from various climates. The Alpine Garden, with its 2,000 species of high-altitude plants, offers a unique opportunity for botanical enthusiasts. Perhaps the most unique feature is the 'Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy', which presents a vast collection of dinosaur fossils and skeletons, offering insights into prehistoric life.

The garden itself is a stunning display of landscape design, with beautifully arranged beds of medicinal and ornamental plants, and a labyrinth offering an unexpected and delightful surprise for visitors.

Located in the dynamic 5th arrondissement of Paris, the popular Jardin des Plantes is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Paris and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Jardin des Plantes is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.3 miles (23 km) away from Paris. From there, you can easily reach Jardin des Plantes by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Jardin des Plantes, which is located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Jardin des Plantes, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 57 Rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Jardin des Plantes!

The best time to explore Jardin des plantes is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons present mild weather conditions with vibrant blooms in spring and spectacular fall foliage in autumn, enhancing the natural beauty of the botanical garden. Additionally, the garden hosts special events like the 'Mille et Une Orchidées' exhibit in February, where over a thousand orchid species are showcased, offering a unique experience. The summer months (July and August) can be quite crowded due to school holidays, so if you prefer a quieter visit, spring and autumn are ideal. However, it's worth considering that the garden is beautiful throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm. Winter visitors can enjoy the Tropical Greenhouses and the Museum of Natural History, which remain open year-round. No matter when you decide to visit, arriving early in the day will allow you to appreciate the garden's tranquil atmosphere before the crowds arrive.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Jardin des Plantes and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

Conveniently explore Jardin des Plantes and plenty more captivating attractions in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Jardin des Plantes and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Paris has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Jardin des Plantes below.

Aside from Jardin des Plantes, Paris is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Paris, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 320,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. Like Eiffel Tower, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 260,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This museum and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 190,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.