Square du Vert-Galant

Located at the point of Ile de la Cité,is this lovely greenspace, with its peace and tranquility, it is the perfect place, with plenty of seating to have a picnic lunch.

I celebrated my birthday here and we had such a blast. The view is astonishing, you can sit next to the Seine and you have as well the park if you want a “greener” environment. I recommend you to bring your own beer and speaker and you are going to have an unforgettable evening or night.

I went there so a night walk, and it was open and there were some people but there were also a couple of rats and some garbage which i felt was a shame for such a nicely located park.

Hidden gem of a park accessible by stair from pont neuf. History lesson that i was told is that the last knight Templar, Jacques de Molay, was burned to death on this spot. Great little park.

Lovely space for a picnic with friends 😊 Dogs are also allowed here!

This place gets very busy as it has blossom trees and is clearly visible from the bridge. Having said that tho, it can be nice if you get a seat and enjoy watching people and the boats go by. Get some nice bread and wine and enjoy a little break in this busy tourist area.

The Square du Vert-Galant is one of Paris’s most charming spots, steeped in history and nestled at the western tip of the Île de la Cité. Known for its serene beauty and greenery, the square offers a tranquil escape amidst the bustling city. After leaving the Panthéon on a pleasant afternoon, my wife and I made a brief stop at a Carrefour to grab some snacks for the journey ahead. We then began a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of the Latin Quarter, soaking in the charm of its narrow alleys and elegant façades. Crossing one of the many bridges connecting the Île de la Cité to the rest of Paris, we caught our first glimpse of the Square du Vert-Galant. Its location, surrounded by the Seine’s gentle waters, immediately set a peaceful tone. As we approached, we passed through the small courtyard featuring an equestrian statue of King Henry IV, a nod to the square’s namesake and his reputation as the “Vert-Galant” (Green Gallant) for his romantic exploits. From here, a stone staircase led us down to the square itself, though it’s worth noting that those with mobility concerns may prefer the accessible ramps alongside the river. The square is beautifully landscaped, with tall trees providing welcome shade and manicured gardens adding a splash of colour. It’s a popular spot for locals looking to relax during lunch breaks or couples enjoying a quiet moment together. We found a lovely spot along the riverbank, where we could sit, savour our snacks, and take in the picturesque views of the Seine and the city beyond. The calm waters, the occasional boat gliding by, and the soft rustle of leaves created a serene atmosphere that felt quintessentially Parisian. Practical tips for visiting include planning your route to ensure accessibility if needed and arriving early to secure one of the benches during busier hours. The square is open to the public and free to enter, making it an excellent addition to any itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to unwind or a romantic setting to share with your partner, the Square du Vert-Galant is a hidden gem worth exploring. Our visit left us feeling refreshed and immersed in the local ambiance. It’s a place that truly embodies the relaxed elegance of Paris and is highly recommended for anyone seeking a quieter corner of the city.

An island peninsula that made our top 5 list. I'm not sure if it was because it was outdoors in the middle of the Seine or the bright green Weeping Willow that provides the coolest picnic spot, but this tickled us. Grab some snackies and wine and chill for an hour or two.

It's a nice, quiet green space off the Pont Neuf. But people leave trash and spit on the ground and grass so beware where you sit! Carry a blanket or towel for a clean spot. It was busy when we visited so the benches were occupied. Don't miss the far end of it, it's a spot for photos of the Seine.