From late March to early April, thousands of trees across the French capital burst into pink blossom. The city of love is especially beautiful when filled with delicate sakura flowers. With the stunning backdrops of Gothic architecture and elegant parks, Paris deserves to be among the best cherry blossom cities of the world.
The first cherry tree blooms in Paris appear in front of the Eiffel Tower—in Trocadero Gardens, and Champ de Mars. They can be seen already in mid-March. An Instagram-perfect view of the Eiffel Tower and its famous carousel gathers crowds of visitors from early morning.
The central courtyard of the Petit Palais features palm trees, fountains, columns, and cherry trees framed by Beaux-Arts architecture. Even though there are just a few of cherry trees, they make quite an impression blooming luxuriously in mid- or late March. Square Gabriel Pierné at the end of Rue de Seine is another great spot to relax under the blooming cherry trees.
One of the most famous cherry blossom spots hides on the south side of the Notre Dame Cathedral. It features perhaps the most glamorous sandbox in Paris covered by the canopy of pink fluffy flowers. After viewing Notre Dame, you can cross the Seine and check out Quai de Montebello for some beautiful blooms by the water.
If you get tired of tourst crowds, you might want to move further from the centre and check out Martin Luther King Park (Parc Clichy-Batignolles) with a few cherry-lined alleys or the Parc Floral de Paris located within the Bois de Vincennes in the 12th arrondissement.
Practical info
When do the sakura trees bloom in the city of love?
The Parisian sakura trees are known to bloom from late March to early April, creating an orchestra of pink blossoms. Tourists visiting during this time enjoy the serene Gothic architecture and stretches of elegant parks with a stunning pink backdrop. Prominent spots to witness these blossoms include the Trocadero Gardens, Champ de Mars, Petit Palais, and Quai de Montebello. Show more
What are the popular locations for cherry blossoms in Paris?
Paris is abundant with picturesque cherry blossom spots, such as the Martin Luther King Park, Parc Floral de Paris, and Notre Dame Cathedral's south side. The Champ de Mars, Petit Palais, Quai de Montebello, and Trocadero Gardens are also picturesque locations. The beauty varies with the places, and each offers a unique experience. Visitors can enjoy the blooms and a host of photo opportunities at these locations. Show more
What does the sakura symbolize in Japanese culture?
Sakura, known as cherry blossoms, is an embodiment of Japan and Japanese culture. These blossoms are considered to represent the impermanence of life as they are relatively short-lived. The Japanese consider cherry blossoms a symbol of renewal, hope, and new beginnings. Japan celebrates 'Hanami' every year to welcome spring by admiring cherry blossoms, accompanied by festivities and picnics. Show more
What other attractions can visitors enjoy during spring in Paris?
Apart from cherry blossoms, spring season in Paris brings along a series of events and attractions. These include the May 1st, Fête du Muguet, full of dancing, music, and floral arrangements. The Jardin des Plantes boasts poppies and many other blooms in spring, while Musee d'Orsay and Musee de l'Orangerie have art exhibitions for visitors. Visitors can also enjoy strolling the various outdoor boulevards and cafes under the pleasant spring sun. Show more
Are there rules for visiting the cherry blossoms parks in Paris?
To maintain the cherry blossoms' beauty, Paris parks prohibit picking or touching the flowers, littering, or leaving trash. Visitors should respectfully enjoy the parks, trees, and other visitors and utilize the many picturesque viewing spots and remarkable photo opportunities available. It is important to avoid damaging the trees so visitors should refrain from touching or picking, which could harm the beautiful sakura blossoms. Show more
