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.

Discover Jardin des plantes, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant 5th arrondissement of Paris. Jardin des plantes is situated at 57 Rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France, just a short distance from National Museum of Natural History and Coulée Verte René-Dumont, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Jardin des plantes, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Jardin des plantes. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Jardin des plantes is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 14.3 miles (23 km) away from the city center. 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. 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.

To truly enjoy your visit to Jardin des plantes, joining a guided tour of this renowned botanical garden in Paris is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Jardin des plantes draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Paris, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Jardin des plantes starting at just 9.69 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Paris, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Jardin des plantes.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic botanical garden in France.

Upon arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Paris.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Paris.

Choosing the right accommodation near Jardin des plantes from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Jardin des plantes, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Jardin des plantes, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Eiffel Tower, located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Louvre Museum is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Arc de Triomphe completes any trip to Paris. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.