Everything You Need to Know About Tuileries Garden
The Tuileries Garden, aka Louvre Garden, located in the first arrondissement of Paris, lies between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde.
It’s the largest park in Paris, covering 55 acres and drawing over 14 million visitors each year.
After the revolution, André Le Nôtre redesigned it in a classic French style with straight avenues and geometric flower beds.
The garden has been important in urban planning since the 19th century.
Inside, you’ll find the Jeu de Paume and Orangerie museums, home to famous Impressionist and modern artworks, including Monet’s Water Lilies.
Fans of movies like “Inception” and “Midnight in Paris” might recognize the garden.
With its rich history, the Tuileries Garden offers lots of activities and dining options.
This article will guide you through the garden’s past and present, helping you plan your visit.
When Was The Tuileries Garden Built?
In 1564, Catherine de Medici started building the Tuileries Palace and its garden.
Initially in the Italian style, the garden was redesigned in the French style by famous landscaper André le Nôtre in 1664.
Opened to the public in 1667, the gardens have become a beloved spot for both Parisians and visitors to gather, socialize, walk, and relax.
| 💡Getting from Louvre Museum to Tuileries Garden Just leave the Louvre through the Pyramid exit to directly enter the Tuileries Garden. The walk from the Louvre to the Tuileries Garden is only 800 meters. |
Also Read: Beat the crowds! Discover the fastest way to reach the Louvre Museum now!
History of Tuileries Garden
In 1561, Cathérine de Médicis, the wife of King Henri II, ordered the Tuileries Garden to be constructed alongside the new Tuileries Palace, taking over an area of tile kilns.
André Le Notre, known for the Gardens of Versailles, designed its layout.
It became the main royal residence, playing a role in important French historical events.
Initially reserved for royalty, it opened to everyone during the French Revolution, hosting festivals and music.
Napoleon I added outdoor statues to its attractions. However, the palace was destroyed in a fire in 1871, turning the garden into a public park.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, it’s now under the Louvre Museum’s care, welcoming all to walk through its historic paths.
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What Is The Tuileries Garden Known For?
The Tuileries Garden in Paris, France, is famous for its rich history and status as a public garden.
Its fame comes from:
Historical Significance
The garden has roots in the French Revolution era, serving as a home to French rulers and a battleground in the July Revolution of 1830.
Public Access
It opened to the public in 1667, becoming the first royal garden turned into a public park and a key landmark in the city.
Art and Sculpture
Since the 17th century, the Tuileries has displayed many sculptures, fountains, and statues, making it a scenic spot full of art and history.
Location and Layout
Next to the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the garden is an ideal spot for both cultural visits and leisurely walks along the Seine River.
Cultural Events
For nearly 500 years, people in Paris have used the Tuileries Garden as a place to celebrate, meet, and relax.
The garden has been the venue for many cultural events like art shows, Christmas markets, and various seasonal festivities, turning it into an active and engaging area.
What To Do In the Tuileries Garden?
The Tuileries Garden is a hub of activities for all interests and preferences.
At the Tuileries Garden, you can…
Appreciate the diverse trees, plants, and flowers. The garden features about 35 tree species and a variety of flowers, with annual floral designs aligned with the Louvre’s events.
Explore the garden’s history with a self-guided scavenger hunt available online. This hunt, which you can print out, takes around 1.5 hours to complete, either alone or with friends
Visit museums like Jeu de Paume and Musée de l’Orangerie at the garden’s far end, showcasing postmodern photography and Impressionist art.
Admire sculptures such as Auguste Rodin’s “The Kiss” and Jean Dubuffet’s “The Well-Costumed.”
Join in seasonal activities, including spring flower displays, summer fairs, and a winter Christmas Market with rides and an ice rink.
Let kids play in the “Aire de Jeux” playground, which has structures suitable for different ages.
Rent a boat for the pond or take a carousel ride, with boats costing about €2 for thirty minutes and carousel rides about €3.
Eat at garden restaurants like La Terrasse de Pomone and Café des Marronniers, or try other nearby places just a short walk away
Ride the Grande Roue de Paris Ferris wheel near the Rue de Rivoli entrance for panoramic views of the city from late June to early September.
Enjoy a game of chess or draughts on the giant chessboard near the entrance, surrounded by the garden’s scenic beauty.
When Does the Tuileries Garden Open?
The Tuileries Garden is open year-round, but its hours vary by season, so checking the schedule ahead of your visit is smart.
In winter (October to March), it’s open from 7.30 am to 7.30 pm.
During the summer (June to August), it opens from 7 am to 11 pm.
In April, May, and September, the garden is open from 7 am to 9 pm.
The garden shuts 30 minutes before its official closing time, so make sure to come early to enjoy this lovely park in the heart of Paris.
Is the Tuileries Garden Free?
The Tuileries Garden in Paris is free to enter.
It’s a public park open to all, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens, enjoy the statues and water features, and relax without needing to buy a ticket.
However, some activities in the garden, like boat rentals on the Grand Bassin or carousel rides, do cost extra.
Visiting the Jeu de Paume and Orangerie museums inside the garden also requires buying tickets.
Also Read: Find out what time the Louvre Museum is open before you visit
Restaurants Near Tuileries Garden
The Tuileries Garden is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a meal in a calm atmosphere.
If you’re in the Tuileries Garden and feel hungry, there are several kiosks and cafes inside the garden where you can grab snacks, drinks, and light meals.
Five eating spots within the Tuileries Garden include:
Outside the garden, you’ll find many restaurants that offer a wide variety of food and dining styles to fit all tastes and budgets.
Nearby restaurants worth visiting are:
These places offer everything from casual to upscale dining, with French and international cuisine.
Be sure to check the opening hours of these restaurants, as some might be closed on certain days or times.
Tuileries Garden at Night
In summer, the park is open until 11 pm, but it closes at 7:30 pm in winter.
Visiting the Tuileries Garden at night is a wonderful idea.
It’s quiet and perfect for a romantic walk or some alone time, with the fountains and statues beautifully illuminated.
Although restaurants and museums close at night, you can still enjoy the sight of the Louvre Palace. At night, the Louvre looks like this
Always stay in well-lit areas and keep an eye on your surroundings for safety.
Nighttime options may be few, but Rue de Rivoli has excellent places to eat and drink to relax after a stroll.
In summary, a night walk in the garden is tranquil and scenic. Make sure to stay safe and plan ahead to ensure a memorable visit.
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Getting from Tuileries Garden to Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is in the 7th arrondissement, near Champ de Mars, and the Tuileries Garden is in the 1st arrondissement, close to the Louvre Museum.
They’re 2.7 kilometers apart, with several ways to travel between them: bus, RER, car, or walking.
By Foot
The walk to the Eiffel Tower involves going along Rue de Rivoli, turning left onto Rue du 29 Juillet, and again turning left onto Pont de la Concorde. It usually takes 35 to 40 minutes.
By Bus
Bus No. 72 takes you from the Tuileries Garden to the Eiffel Tower in about 12 minutes, going from the Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre to Pont d’Iéna.
By RER
The RER C or RER B takes you to Champ de Mars, close to the Eiffel Tower, in about 21 minutes.
By Car/Taxi
While driving is the fastest, traffic can make it unpredictable, ranging from 10 to 30 minutes to get there.
FAQs
What is Tuileries Garden?
The Tuileries Garden is a historic public park in Paris, France, situated between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde.
It is renowned for its well-kept lawns, geometrically arranged flower beds, sculptures, fountains, and tranquil ambiance.
How can I get to the Tuileries Garden?
The Tuileries Garden is easily reached by metro, bus, or RER.
The closest metro stations are Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre and Tuileries.
Additionally, it’s a short walk from the Louvre Museum, or you can opt for a taxi or rideshare service.
What does Tuileries mean in French?
The name “Tuileries” comes from the French word “tuileries,” the feminine plural form of “tuilerie,” meaning a place for manufacturing tiles.
This name originates from the tile kilns that were located on the site before the palace was built.
How long does Tuileries Garden take?
The Royal Walk from the Louvre to the Champs-Elysées. This is a 1.1mi walking tour. It takes an average of 60 mins to complete.
How big is the Tuileries Garden?
The Tuileries Garden (French: Jardin des Tuileries) spans 22.4 hectares (55 acres) and is bordered by the Louvre to the east, the Seine to the south, Place de la Concorde to the west, and Rue de Rivoli to the north.
Are there any restrooms in the Tuileries Garden?
Yes, there are several public restrooms located throughout the gardens.
Are there any events held in the Tuileries Garden?
Yes, the Tuileries Garden hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions.
You can find a calendar of events on the official website of the Louvre Museum.
Can I bring my dog to the Tuileries Garden?
Yes, small dogs are allowed in the Tuileries Garden on a leash, but they must be kept on the designated paths and away from the flowerbeds.
Is Tuileries Garden worth visiting?
Yes, the Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) is certainly a must-see in Paris.
Situated in the city’s center, this large public garden provides a peaceful retreat from the busy streets.
Originating in the 16th century, it has grown into one of Paris’s most visited spots, thanks to its rich history, stunning landscaping by André Le Nôtre, and prime location near famous sites like the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde.
Featured Images: Louvre.fr