Paris Muse

Parisians are known to take great pride in their parks, and their fair city boasts more than 400 of them, some dating back to the 17th century. If you want a place to cool off and relax this summer, look no further.

Here are some of the most notable parks in Paris

Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg is among the largest public parks in the city. It is immensely popular with tourists and is a great place for children. There is a pond in the center of the garden where kids can rent boats, and there is a playground, merry-go-round, pony rides and a puppet theater. The fountains and statues in the park have made it world famous.

Jardin des Tuileries
The Jardin des Tuileries‘ central location have made it one of the most popular parks in Paris. Between Place de la Concorde and the Louvre, it boasts a large pond, beautiful sculptures and two museums (l’Orangerie and Jeu de Paume). It was designed by André Le Nôtre in 1664, who also designed the gardens of Versailles. Don’t forget to visit the Fête Foraine du Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries fun fair) with its large ferris wheel and games.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Another notable park in Paris, but it stands out from the others due to its location on a hilltop. Waterfalls, lakes, a grotto, and the Belvedere of Sybil add a romantic touch to this park. There is an island in the park’s lake that offers good views. It is a great place for jogging too.

Bois de Vincennes
The Bois de Vincennes is an English-styled park on the eastern fringes of Paris. It is well known for its pathways, lakes, gazebos and hilly picnic spots. There is also a farm, a zoo, and a fairground here. Open-air jazz concerts are held at a botanical park.

Parc Andre Citroen
This is one of the most well-known modern parks of the city. It is built on an area that was previously an industrial site, and has been named after Citroen, the automobile manufacturer. This park has a contemporary setting – there are touches of English, French and Japanese styles in the garden. There are theme gardens here, like an herbal garden and a children’s park.

Parc Monceau
A beautiful park in the 8th arrondissement, Parc Monceau was established by Phillippe d’Orléans, Duke of Chartres, close friend of George IV, and anglophile. Hence, another charming English-style park where Monet once painted and where Berlioz was fond of strolling.

Parc de la Villette
Found along the quai in the 19th arrondisement, Parc de la Villette was designed by Bernard Tshumi under the guidance of none other than Jaqcues Derrida, the deconstuctionist philosopher. It is conceptualized to be a “non-space” without clearly defined monuments that tourists can take in on whirlwind tours. The most iconic elements of the park are the folies (seen in the picture above) and despite the heady concepts behind its inception, the large open spaces of Parc de la Villette are great for playing frisbee or having a picnic. It’s also right next to the science museum, Cité des Sciences.