Jardin Darcy
Pl. Darcy, Dijon, France, 21000
Set on top of a 19th-century reservoir, and named after the engineer who first brought fresh drinking water to Dijon, the Darcy Garden (Jardin Darcy) is both a historic landmark and one of the city’s prettiest green spaces. With its fountains, waterfalls, and flower beds—plus sculptures and architectural features—it’s a great destination for visitors of all ages.
The basics
Conveniently located between Dijon’s train station and the city center, the Darcy Garden is a great stop on a full-day sightseeing tour of the city, and the perfect place to unwind and catch your breath. It’s worth setting aside an hour or two to make the most of the historic monument and garden, one of the city’s largest. Admire the terraces and bridges (designed in a neo-Renaissance-style), stroll the gentle trails, and stop to take in the scenery on one of the park benches.
It’s also worth looking out for the garden’s most notable statue, a polar bear sculpture by Henry Martinet. While the garden is easy to explore independently, you can learn more about its 140-odd years of history when you visit as part of a Dijon highlights tour.
Things to know before you go
Dogs are welcome in the Darcy Garden.
Since there is very little cover in the park, be sure to dress for the elements.
The Darcy Garden is a great place in Dijon to have a picnic lunch.
There are play areas in the park for those visiting with younger kids.
The park’s level, paved walkways are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to get there
The Darcy Garden is located at Place Darcy, just west of the city center. From Dijon’s main train station, Dijon-Ville, the garden is only a 7-minute walk away. A wide range of bus and tram services are available as well, and taxis frequent the area.
When to get there
The garden is open daily throughout the year, from early morning until dusk. Note that it’s likely to be at its busiest on weekends, holidays, and on good-weather days. If you can, visit on a dry day so you can make the most of its attractions.
The best parks and gardens in Dijon
Along with the Darcy Garden, Dijon has a number of inviting green spaces that are worth seeking out. Other highlights include the Parc des Carrières Bacquin (set in a refurbished quarry), the Square des Ducs (right in front of the UNESCO–listed Palace of the Dukes and the States of Burgundy), and the Jardins de Sainte-Anne (part of the cloister that now houses two city museums).
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