Exotic plants and elegant water features are just two reasons to visit Bordeaux's Jardin Public, a beloved park area in the centre of the city. In addition to its green spaces and shaded paths, this park also contains a museum, library and children’s theatre, as well as a restaurant with outdoor seating. Join local residents in exercising, strolling and relaxing on the beautiful park grounds
The gardens were laid out in 1746 and were designed to replicate the style of Versailles designer André le Nôtre. The aims of the park today are to preserve biodiversity and protect endangered plant species, as well as to create a pleasant area for the public to enjoy.
Inspect the wide array of flowers and trees in the botanical gardens, where about 3,000 different species of plants grow around lakes and ponds. Look for ducks and swans swimming in these waters. Have a picnic on one of the open areas of grass or pick a bench in the shade beneath the colourful trees. Rest next to the serpentine river that runs along the north edge of the park.
Watch some historic puppetry with kids at the Guignol Guérin show. The marionette theatre, which has been in existence since 1853, tells stories based on the character of Guignol, a silk worker who gets into comical situations.
Don’t miss the other cultural sights bordering the park, such as the Natural History Museum, which displays models of animals alongside informative displays. The Public Garden Library is set in one of the old town houses lining the garden’s perimeter.
Sit down for dinner at the restaurant in the park. The open-air seating is particularly popular during the warmer summer months, when patrons can sip a glass of wine while enjoying the sunset.
Find entrances to the park near the Jardin Public tram stop and at the bus stops at Longchamps and Rue d'Aviau. Admission to the gardens is free and they are open throughout the year. Visit in fall to see the spectacular autumn foliage.
