Square du Vert-Galant is a small riverside garden at the western tip of Île de la Cité, beneath Pont Neuf in central Paris. Its shaded paths, lawn and weeping willow make a calm pause between sightseeing stops. From the island’s point, you can watch boats pass and look across the Seine towards the Louvre, the Institut de France and both riverbanks. The garden takes its name from Henri IV’s nickname; his equestrian statue stands above it on the bridge. Bring a picnic for the lawn or settle on a bench by the water.
A garden at the island’s western tip
Square du Vert-Galant occupies the point of Île de la Cité, where the Seine runs along both sides of the garden. The setting gives it a different feel from the streets and bridges above: water frames the green space, and boats pass close by.
The garden is small, with paths, a central lawn, trees and places to sit. A weeping willow is one of its familiar landmarks. Chestnut, lilac and walnut trees are also associated with the garden. Their shade makes the benches and lawn useful places to pause during a walk through central Paris.
The name and Henri IV
The square takes its name from “Vert-Galant,” a nickname given to King Henri IV. His equestrian statue stands on Pont Neuf above the garden and marks the route down to it. Look for the stairs beside the statue when approaching from the bridge.
The land has a royal past: it once formed part of the gardens used by French kings and queens at the nearby palace of Sainte-Chapelle. It later became a public green space. The name preserves the link with Henri IV, while the statue provides a visible landmark for finding the entrance.
Views across the Seine
From the garden, look towards the Louvre and the Institut de France, or turn along the river to take in the bridges and the two banks of Paris. The open position at the end of the island gives the square its broad river views. It is also a place to watch the boats move past at close range.
The lawn suits a picnic on a fine day, while the river-edge benches are a good choice for a shorter stop. The garden can draw people looking for a place to relax, especially at busy times, so arrive early if you have a particular bench in mind. Stairs are the access route from Pont Neuf, so plan another stop if they are not suitable for you.
Preguntas frecuentes
How do you get to Square du Vert-Galant?
Take the stairs down from Pont Neuf beside the equestrian statue of Henri IV. The garden is at the western tip of Île de la Cité.
Is Square du Vert-Galant free to visit?
Yes. The garden is a public park and has no entry fee.
What can you see from the garden?
You can watch boats on the Seine and see the Louvre, the Institut de France, the bridges and both riverbanks.
Why is it called Square du Vert-Galant?
Its name comes from “Vert-Galant,” a nickname given to King Henri IV. His equestrian statue stands on Pont Neuf above the garden.
