5 Charming Parks in Paris to Take a Break from the Crowds

Parisian parks and gardens are much more than beautiful spots to escape the city hustle—they’re steeped in history, brimming with culture, and central to Parisian social life year-round.

Here are ten charming green spaces across the City of Light to enjoy. Check them out.

Tuileries Garden 

The Tuileries Garden, the first public park in Paris, was commissioned by Louis XIV and designed by André Le Nôtre in 1664. It has undergone numerous redesigns, the latest by landscapers Louis Benech, Pascal Cribier, and François Roubaud, who honored Le Nôtre’s original layout.

Find a cozy bench, relax with a book, and soak in the lush greenery and timeless elegance.

Luxembourg Gardens 

Established in 1612 at the request of Queen Marie de’ Medici, the Luxembourg Gardens reflect the style of Florence’s Boboli Gardens. Walk along tree-lined pathways with views of the Luxembourg Palace, now home to the French Senate.

Kids love sailing remote-controlled boats on the pond, while adults admire the orange trees and orchids in the greenhouse.

Rodin Museum Gardens 

A trip to the Rodin Museum wouldn’t be complete without wandering through its adjoining gardens. Stroll along paths dotted with roses and sculptures, including Rodin’s iconic The Thinker.

Take a moment to unwind at the garden café for a peaceful escape amidst art and nature. The menu here mainly features salads, quiche, fresh fruit, and sandwiches such as croque monsieur and croque madame.

 While it’s not exactly a budget option, the convenience and setting make it worthwhile. You can relax outdoors under the trees, surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures—a perfect atmosphere to enjoy your meal.

The food quality is solid, with fresh ingredients, and the self-service setup means you won’t have to wait long for your order. Plus, several of the guided Paris Food Tour through the city’s museums include a coffee, letting you enjoy a warm beverage as you explore these cultural gems.

Parc de la Villette 

This huge green space, spread across 55 hectares, plays a significant role in Paris’s cultural life. Known for the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the Zenith, and the Philharmonie de Paris, Parc de la Villette hosts countless events, concerts, and outdoor movies.

You can’t miss the famous Jazz à la Villette festival if you’re visiting Paris in summer. It is an annual celebration of the vibrant jazz genre, showcasing exceptional performances from both seasoned musicians and rising stars.

Spanning around ten days, the event features numerous soulful concerts. Overall, the festival celebrates jazz’s innovation, history, and collaborative spirit, offering a unique experience for jazz lovers.

Monceau Park 

Elegance defines Monceau Park. Passing through its grand 18th-century iron gates, you’ll find yourself surrounded by century-old trees and beautiful mansions.

The park features architectural gems like the Naumachia, reminiscent of Roman naval battles, making it a picturesque escape within Paris.

Buttes-Chaumont Park 

With 25 hectares of rolling hills, a lake, and charming caves, Buttes-Chaumont is ideal for families and friends.

Many of the Paris Food Tour stop at local shops to purchase fresh, regional products, then set up a delightful picnic in the park for participants to enjoy within the lush scenery.

With panoramic views of the city—including Montmartre—this park offers one of the most beautiful picnic spots in Paris. Known for its scenic beauty and winding trails, it’s a favorite among runners, while the frequent children’s activities make it a lively community hub.

Georges Brassens Park 

Not widely known, Georges Brassens Park in the 15th arrondissement features a vineyard with 700 pinot noir vines—a nod to Paris’s winemaking history. Once the site of Vaugirard’s slaughterhouses, this cozy park now welcomes couples and families, providing a quiet setting that feels worlds away from the crowds of the city center.

Renoir Gardens 

Nestled in Montmartre, the Renoir Gardens offer a romantic, poetic retreat. Blooming with vibrant flowers in spring and summer, they are enchanting year-round. Make sure to explore the nearby Musée Montmartre, where Suzanne Valadon’s studio offers a glimpse into the life of the famous artist.

Parc Floral de Paris 

This botanical gem within the Bois de Vincennes spans over 34 hectares and houses more than 3,000 plant varieties. As one of the four main botanical gardens of Paris, Parc Floral de Paris is home to rare flowers and seasonal events, such as open-air concerts and exhibitions.

The Parc Floral de Paris is the perfect spot for taking photos and videos for social media.

Jardin d’Acclimatation 

Dating back to its inauguration by Napoleon III in 1860, the Jardin d’Acclimatation underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2018 with 17 new attractions. Located in the Bois de Boulogne, this family-friendly park is filled with 41 rides and 400 animals, hosting a variety of events, especially during school holidays.