The 5 most secret gardens in Paris

This cottage garden, which is concealed from the street by a high stone wall, is planted with linden trees, poplars, hazelnut trees and vines. Originally it was owned by the community of the Filles de la Charité, whose convent can be seen to the left of the garden.

In the heart of Le Marais you will run into these tiny city gardens, which were in vogue during the Second Empire. They have succeeded in retaining their intimate and romantic atmosphere. It’s a place for lovers, teens, the curious and locals to hide, to meet or to seek some peace and quiet. These gardens are enchanting thanks to the mix of rare trees, flowering shrubs and the tiny stream.

Located on the western tip of Île de la Cité this tiny square along the Seine affords an exceptional view of the Louvre, hôtel de la Monnaie and Pont Neuf. On sunny days the lawns and the area around the garden are invaded by people with picnic baskets.

This Japanese garden pays tribute to Albert Kahn, a renowned 19th-century banker, who dedicated his life and fortune to world peace. In memory of his close ties with Japan this unique garden with its wooden bridges, its streams, its banks covered with stones and pink and red azaleas invites you to take a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun.

This tiny garden in the middle of a housing block is invisible from the street. But the locals know it well and appreciate the amazing tranquillity of this place. The arbours are covered with climbing roses and there are four lawns with stone benches. It’s a perfect place to enjoy your lunch break, let the children run around, read the newspaper or while away the time.