What are the best parks in Paris?

Paris parks have long been an essential feature of this picturesque city, with the garden tradition dating right back to Roman times. These days the city is dotted with over 421 municipal parks and gardens breathing life, space and sheer beauty into the city. From the formal to the spacious, the parks of Paris are as much a feature as the monuments and museums, allowing you to unfurl a picnic blanket, nibble on a baguette, and bask in the sun taking in all the romance and charm for which this city is famed.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Located in the 19th district, north east of the city centre, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is certainly worth the trip. This park is less formal than the grand open spaces of Jardin des Tuileries or Jardin des Plantes. Instead, it features waterfalls, winding paths, lush green lawns, temples and cliffs, all the unique result of its past as a quarry. It's the perfect place to enjoy a stroll, settle in for an afternoon, or catch the sunset.

Making the most of the great weather in Buttes-Chaumont Park, Paris, France.

Jardin des Tuileries

First opened in the 16th century, the avenues of Jardin des Tuileries have long been the place to stroll and take in the passing parade. This central park is located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde and is one of the original Parisian gardens from which many more take their form. Jardin des Tuileries features formal gardens, tree-lined paths, statues, and expansive ponds.

The tranquil setting of the Tuilleries garden in Paris during summer.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Known for its tree-lined promenades, lush lawns and flowering gardens, the Jardin du Luxembourg spans over 25ha and dates back to the 17th century. You'll notice an array of green garden chairs scattered throughout the gardens. If you visit on a weekend, you'll find Parisians playing chess at the tables, while others have moved the chairs, to face one of the ponds, or in winter the sun! The Jardin du Luxembourg is also home to the picturesque Medici Fountain.

Luxembourg Palace, in Jardin du Luxembourg, has been the seat of the French Senate since 1958.

Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden of France, containing over 10,000 species of plants. This stunning series of gardens accommodates tropical greenhouses, rose, winter and alpine gardens in addition to four museums and a small zoo. The Jardin des Plantes spans almost 28ha within the 6th arrondissement of Paris.

Jardin des Plantes in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, France.

Place des Vosges

If you're looking for a quiet spot in Paris to contemplate the past, the Place des Vosges is the perfect destination. This spectacular small park was the first planned square in Paris and is renowned as the most beautiful to enjoy. Framed by museums, it's an inviting space to wander, peruse the shops, or simply sit and relax.

Fountain and grounds of the Place des Vosges, Paris, France.