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Last Updated: March 16, 2023
One of the first signs that spring has arrived to Paris is when the magnolias start blooming. These large flowering trees boast impressive pink flowers starting in early spring. You can find them dotted around the capital, and they are sure to lift your spirits after the gloom of winter. Here are some of my favorite spots to find magnolias blooming in Paris!
When is the magnolia blooming period in Paris?
You can identify magnolias (it’s the same word—magnolia—in French) by the tulip shape of the flower blossom. They can range in color from white to pink to purple. Most of the magnolia trees in Paris have a pink hue.
The magnolia blooming season varies depending on the variety of magnolia tree and its location. In Paris, you’ll notice the pink buds forming and getting ready to burst open in the beginning of March. Of course, the beginning of the blooming period changes each year according to the weather, but you are likely to see the magnolia trees in bloom in mid-March in Paris.
Unfortunately, the magnolia blooming period is quite short, with full blooms only lasting about one to two weeks. Typically, by the end of March, the pinks petals will have fallen to the ground, to be replaced by the green leaves of spring.
Jardin des Tuileries
The magnolias in the Jardin des Tuileries are among the first to bloom every year. There are several trees here with light pink flowers. You’ll find them dotted around the eastern side of the garden (the side with the Grand Bassin Rond). The Jardin des Tuileries is a beautiful spot to spend some time in the spring, as the Parisians wake up from winter and the garden comes to life. Grab a book and enjoy the scenery.
Champ de Mars
The first time I went looking for magnolias near the Eiffel Tower, I was sorely disappointed. So many Paris bloggers and influencers led me to believe that I would find tons of magnolia trees all around Champ de Mars, the park and lawns in front of the Eiffel Tower. There is ONE spot with magnolias; one spot where you can get a photo of magnolias and the Eiffel Tower in the background. You’re welcome for not spreading any more lies about this 😅 Don’t get me wrong, it is beautiful—I just don’t want you to have unrealistic expectations.
As you walk around the Champ de Mars, head towards the Eiffel Tower to find the magnolias. They are located to the south of the Eiffel Tower and do indeed offer a great photo op. You’ll know right away that you’re in the right place because there will be other photographers there.
Hôtel de Ville de Paris
Located in central Paris, there are two twin magnolia trees in the Jardin des Combattants Espagnols de la Nueve, adjacent to and to the south of the Hôtel de Ville de Paris. This garden is only open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Whether you’re there on the weekend or during the week, you can still see the magnolia trees over the wall. There is one on each side of the Statue d’Étienne de Marcel. I love the pink blooms against the neutral Parisian architecture.
Jardin Anne-Frank
The Anne Frank memorial garden is a peaceful, secluded garden that you wouldn’t find if you weren’t looking for it. Tucked away in the Marais, right behind the Museum of the Art and History of Judaism, it’s the perfect place to have a quiet and reflective moment away from the busy capital. Besides magnolias, you’ll also find daffodils, cherry blossoms, and roses, all in time according to the season.
Jardin du Palais-Royal
The Jardin du Palais-Royal is a super well-known spot for seeing magnolia blooms and probably my favorite location on this list! The flowers are particularly vibrant here with blooms that are almost purple. Daffodils can also be found in the flowerbeds of this garden.
Unless you come early in the morning, you definitely won’t be alone admiring the spring flowers. This place gets crowded in the afternoon, with many locals stopping in to enjoy their lunch on one of the many park benches. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby coffee shops, sit by the fountain, and watch the world go by. Unlike in most of the parks in Paris, dogs are allowed here and you’ll often see a bunch playing!
Do you have a favorite spot for magnolias in Paris?
