Jardin du Palais Royal

The Jardin du Palais Royal is a formal French garden located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, adjacent to the Palais Royal complex. Designed in the 17th century, it features perfectly manicured lawns, gravel paths, and a central fountain surrounded by rows of trimmed trees. The garden is enclosed by elegant arcades housing boutiques and restaurants, including the famous Café de la Paix. A distinctive modern touch is Daniel Buren's 'Les Deux Plateaux' (1986), a grid of black-and-white striped columns of varying heights that contrasts with the classical setting. Visitors can stroll through the serene space, sit on green metal chairs, or admire the flowerbeds. It's a favorite spot for Parisians to read, relax, or enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustling Louvre nearby.

Don't miss

• See Daniel Buren's 'Les Deux Plateaux' installation, a must-photograph art piece.
• Walk under the arcades and browse high-end shops like Didier Ludot and the Palais Royal boutique.
• Relax by the central fountain and watch Parisians enjoying the garden.
• Visit the nearby Comédie-Française theater, housed in the Palais Royal.
• Explore the garden's symmetry and seasonal flower displays.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Jardin du Palais Royal

Cheapest way inParis by Night Walking Tour: Ghosts, Mysteries and Legends4.3★ · 962 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →Most bookedVersailles Palace and Gardens Tour from Paris4.4★ · 4,182 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleSports, fun and educational discovery of Paris5★ · 428 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$100 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• The garden closes at dusk; check seasonal hours.
• The Buren columns are a popular photo spot, go early to avoid crowds.
• Green chairs are free to use; feel free to move them to your preferred spot.
• There are cafés under the arcades for a drink or light meal.

A bit of history

The Palais Royal was built in 1639 for Cardinal Richelieu, and the garden was laid out later. In the 18th century, it became a fashionable gathering place for aristocrats and intellectuals, and later a site of revolutionary activity. The garden was opened to the public in 1792.