Back to school is almost here! And in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, especially after returning from vacation, it's essential to find moments to recharge and relax outdoors. Paris, a city rich in history and culture, offers an impressive variety of green spaces and activities of all kinds. This makes it easy to escape city life and extend your vacation a little. Whether you want to stroll through peaceful gardens, stroll along the banks of the Seine, or explore hidden corners.
Paris is brimming with opportunities to enjoy nature in the heart of the city. Come discover our 10 outdoor outing ideas to extend your vacation.
The emblematic gardens of Paris
Tuileries Garden
The Tuileries Garden, located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. Its tree-lined paths, carefully landscaped flowerbeds, and soothing ponds have made it a popular retreat for centuries. The green chairs lined along the paths invite moments of contemplation, while the striking sculptures, including works by renowned masters, awaken artistic inspiration. Stroll beneath the shade, watch the birds basking near the ponds, or simply sit and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this iconic garden.
Buttes-Chaumont Park
The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, nestled in the Belleville district, is a natural gem that surprises with its rugged terrain and bucolic charm. The park's main feature is its small lake overlooked by a small island crowned by a temple. If you climb to the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Up there, you can lie down on the grass for a picnic, for example, or simply for a stroll. The winding trails also offer excellent opportunities for short hikes for those looking to explore further.
Montsouris Park
Parc Montsouris, located in the 14th arrondissement, is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This peaceful park is primarily known for its lake where ducks frolic. Boats can be rented for a romantic experience. The winding paths through the trees and flowerbeds provide an ideal setting for a relaxing stroll or an invigorating jog. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of birds that frequent the park, making it also an ideal place for wildlife viewing.
These iconic Parisian gardens are much more than just green spaces. Above all, they are peaceful havens where you can relax, reconnect with nature, and be swept away by the beauty of the surroundings. Enjoy the many activities they offer and discover the unique charm of each of these places.
Parisian walks: Outings by the water
The Canal Saint-Martin
The Canal Saint-Martin, epicenter of Paris's bohemian atmosphere, reveals a unique urban charm. Lined with trees and old buildings with colorful facades, the canal reflects a romantic and authentic ambiance. The locks that punctuate its course offer a captivating spectacle as boats pass through them. It's almost like being in Venice ;). The quays are very lively, a veritable theater of a teeming social life. With cafes, art galleries, and vintage shops that contribute to the neighborhood's atmosphere. Strolling along the Canal Saint-Martin is an experience of total disconnection. Where the peaceful rhythm of the water transports you outside of Paris and invites you to contemplate.
During your visit to the Canal Saint-Martin, there are many opportunities for outdoor activities. You can stroll along the banks, stopping to admire the colorful barges and charming bridges. Or opt for a picnic by the water. Explore the small local boutiques and art galleries that dot the adjacent streets, where you might just find some original and unique treasures. The Canal Saint-Martin embodies the essence of a gentle and peaceful life in the heart of the city.
The Banks of the Seine
The landscaped banks of the Seine offer a truly unique experience of Paris. Along the river, the banks have become walking spaces conducive to relaxation and contemplation. The quays offer magnificent views of Paris's iconic monuments, creating a picturesque setting for your strolls. Sitting by the water with a book, enjoying a meditation session, or simply admiring the constant flow of the river provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
These riverbanks provide an ideal space to stroll along the shore, let your thoughts wander, and absorb the calming energy of the water. Relaxation and contemplation are the focus, inviting you to immerse yourself in a moment of tranquility in the heart of the bustling capital.
Paris's secret gardens for sunny outings
Vert-Galant Square
Nestled at the end of the Île de la Cité, the Square du Vert-Galant is a romantic haven that invites contemplation. This garden, named after Henri IV, extends in terraces above the Seine, offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding bridges. The intimate atmosphere of this space makes it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Benches hidden under the trees provide perfect nooks to savor a moment of tranquility. Visitors can indulge in meditation or simply lose themselves in the calm beauty of the riverside landscape. The discreetly charming Square du Vert-Galant reveals a secret corner of Paris where one can find a welcome respite in the open air.
Catherine-Labouré Garden
Set back from the hustle and bustle of Montparnasse, the Jardin Catherine-Labouré is a little-known gem that deserves to be discovered. This small, walled garden invites calm and contemplation. Home to a variety of carefully tended plant species, this enchanting place is an ode to nature in the heart of the city. The shaded paths offer a refuge for those seeking serene moments. The scattered benches invite you to sit and reconnect with the plant world around you. Take the time to observe the flowering plants, the leaves dancing in the breeze, and enjoy the soothing atmosphere that the Jardin Catherine-Labouré offers visitors.
These secret, hidden gardens are like timeless nooks where nature and tranquility blend harmoniously. By exploring these discreet oases, you'll discover another side of Paris, allowing you to recharge your batteries and marvel at the city's hidden beauty.
The great outdoors
Villette Park
Parc de la Villette, located in northeast Paris, is an unusual place that combines nature and culture. Vast and diverse, this park offers spacious meadows, themed gardens, and a multitude of cultural attractions. The open lawns invite you to relax outdoors, while contemporary art installations add a creative touch to the setting. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the canals or explore the various themed pavilions. Parc de la Villette also hosts cultural events and festivals, offering a dynamic experience where nature and art merge. Take the time to appreciate the unique fusion of nature and culture in this park far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Paris Floral Park
The Parc Floral de Paris, located in the Bois de Vincennes, is a plant paradise that delights nature lovers. Divided into themed areas, this park offers a variety of landscaped gardens, each reflecting a unique atmosphere. From Japanese gardens to exotic greenhouses and peaceful ponds, every corner is an invitation to discovery. Strolling through the flower-lined paths allows you to admire the magnificent flora and observe the wildlife that finds refuge there. Take your time to stroll, marvel at the flowers in full bloom, and let yourself be transported to fascinating botanical worlds.
Palace of Versailles: A Royal Escape
This historic treasure offers an outdoor experience that blends history, architecture, and the beauty of the royal gardens. You'll be dazzled by the architectural grandeur of the palace. Explore the sumptuously decorated rooms, from the Royal Apartments to the famous Hall of Mirrors. But that's not all: the gardens surrounding the palace are a true masterpiece. It's worth a visit! You can also witness the grandiose Musical Fountains Show, where the fountains come alive to the sound of classical music, creating a captivating experience. The Palace of Versailles offers a full day of outdoor exploration, where history and nature come together to create a great experience. However, I wouldn't recommend this place on weekends, especially if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris.
And there you have it, now you know where to extend your vacation for this September, which promises to be sunny. Don't hesitate to tell us your favorite places in the comments! See you next week, see you later ;)
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