Bois de Boulogne

Description

Look, I’ve explored quite a few urban parks in my travels, but the Bois de Boulogne hits different. This sprawling green oasis on Paris’s western edge isn’t just your average city park – it’s a massive 2,090-acre wonderland that’s been the playground of Parisians since Napoleon III decided to gift it to the people back in the 1850s. I absolutely love how it feels both wild and perfectly manicured at the same time.

The park transforms beautifully with the seasons. In spring, you’ll catch cherry blossoms creating pink canopies over the pathways. Summer brings picnicking families spreading out on the grass, while autumn paints the woods in warm golden hues. And yeah, sometimes the more remote areas can feel a bit sketchy after dark, but stick to the well-traveled paths and you’ll discover why this place is pure magic.

Key Features

• Two gorgeous lakes – the Lac Inférieur and Lac Supérieur – perfect for rowboat rentals and peaceful walks
• The stunning Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil with its collection of rare plants and gorgeous greenhouses
• Le Jardin Shakespeare, featuring plants mentioned in the Bard’s works (literature nerds like me absolutely love this!)
• The Château de Bagatelle and its spectacular rose garden
• Miles of walking and cycling paths winding through wooded areas
• Two hippodromes (Longchamp and Auteuil) for horse racing enthusiasts
• The Jardin d’Acclimatation, a charming amusement park that’s been entertaining kids since 1860
• Several excellent restaurants, including the fancy La Grande Cascade
• Tennis courts and other sports facilities
• A dedicated cycling route that circles the entire park

Best Time to Visit

I gotta tell ya, this park really shines in late spring through early fall. April to June is absolutely gorgeous – the weather’s just right, and the gardens are bursting with color. Summer weekends get pretty crowded with Parisians escaping the city heat, but that’s part of the fun! If you’re like me and prefer fewer crowds, try visiting on weekday mornings.

Fall is another fantastic time, especially October when the leaves start changing. The cooler temps make it perfect for longer walks or bike rides. Winter can be beautiful too, especially on crisp, sunny days, but some attractions like the boat rentals might be closed.

Pro tip: Early mornings are magical here – I love watching the joggers and seeing the mist rise off the lakes. Plus, you’ll have better luck finding a peaceful spot for yourself.

How to Get There

Getting to the Bois de Boulogne is actually pretty straightforward. The Paris Métro is your best bet – take Line 1 to either Porte Maillot or Porte Dauphine stations. From there, it’s just a short walk to the park’s edges. If you’re coming from central Paris, you can also hop on the RER C to Avenue Henri Martin or Avenue Foch stations.

Bus lines 32, 43, 73, 82, and 93 all stop near various park entrances. I’ve found the 73 particularly convenient when coming from central Paris. Honestly though, my favorite way to arrive is by bike – there’s a dedicated cycling path that connects to the heart of Paris, and it’s such a pleasant ride.

Tips for Visiting

Okay, let me share some hard-learned lessons from my visits. First off, bring water and snacks! While there are restaurants in the park, they can be pricey and sometimes busy. Pack a picnic instead – it’s what the locals do.

Wear comfortable shoes – trust me, you’ll end up walking more than you expect. The park is HUGE, and you’ll want to explore. I learned this the hard way during my first visit in fancy city shoes!

Download a map to your phone before you go. The park’s size means it’s easy to get turned around, and cell service can be spotty in some areas.

The park is open 24/7, but stick to daylight hours and main paths for safety. Some areas can get a bit sketchy after dark, especially in the more remote sections.

If you’re into photography, morning light is incredible here – particularly around the lakes. And don’t miss the Château de Bagatelle’s rose garden when it’s in bloom – I’ve gotten some of my best Paris photos there.

For families, the Jardin d’Acclimatation is a must-visit, but try to arrive when it opens to avoid the crowds. And if you’re visiting in summer, consider renting a rowboat on one of the lakes – it’s such a quintessential Parisian experience!

Remember to check the weather forecast – the park is most enjoyable on dry days, and there’s limited shelter if it starts raining. But honestly? Even in less-than-perfect weather, the Bois de Boulogne has this amazing ability to make you feel like you’ve escaped the city without ever leaving Paris.

Location

Places to Stay Near Bois de Boulogne

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