Square du Vert-Galant

Overview

The Square du Vert-Galant is the smallest and perhaps the most romantic public garden in Paris — a tiny triangular garden at the very prow of the Île de la Cité, descending to the level of the Seine beneath the arches of the Pont Neuf. It is reached via a staircase on the west side of the Pont Neuf, and once you descend, the city seems to recede: you are almost at water level, surrounded by weeping willows and old plane trees, with the river flowing past on both sides. The name 'Vert-Galant' — literally 'Green Gallant' — was a nickname for Henri IV, whose equestrian statue stands above on the Pont Neuf, and referred to his reportedly inexhaustible energy with women. On summer evenings, Vedettes du Pont-Neuf boats depart from beside the garden for Seine cruises.

What to See

• 1Seine river views — 270-degree panorama of the river flowing around the island, unique in Paris
• 2Pont Neuf — the oldest bridge in Paris (1607), visible in its full length from the garden below
• 3Weeping willows — the garden's trailing willows are among the most romantic trees in the city
• 4Vedettes du Pont-Neuf — Seine boat tours depart from the quay beside the garden
• 5Sunset views — the western tip of the island catches the last light of the day beautifully

Photos

View of the Square du Vert-Galant at the tip of Île de la Cité with the Pont Neuf and Seine

Nearby Parks

Jardin du Palais Royal

Garden · 1er arr.

Jardin des Tuileries

Garden · 1er arr.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Garden · 6e arr.