Skip to content 
Photo: Walkerssk / Pixabay
Paris' Top 5 Nature Trails
Paris, the capital city of France, is renowned worldwide for its rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and romantic charm. It is considered to be one of the most visited cities in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. While Paris is widely known for its iconic landmarks and vibrant city life, it is also a city that offers a unique blend of nature and urbanism. From sprawling parks to hidden gardens, there are numerous nature trails in Paris that offer a tranquil escape from the city’s energizing pace.
In this blog, we will take a detailed look at the top five nature trails in Paris that will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and discover a different side of the city.
Photo: user32212 / Pixabay
Nature Trail 1 - Jardin des Plantes, 57 Rue Cuvier
Nature Trail 2 - Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 1 Rue Botzaris
Nature Trail 3 - Bois de Vincennes, Route de la Pyramide
Nature Trail 4 - Parc Monceau, 35 Boulevard de Courcelles
Nature Trail 5 - Parc de la Villette, 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès
Nature Trail 1
Jardin des Plantes
Location
57 Rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris
Size
0.2 km2 / 23.5 hectares / 58 acres
Distance from City Centre
Approximately 3 km / 2 miles
Accessibility
Jardin des Plantes is easily accessible by public transport, with several metro and bus lines serving the area
Typical Visit Duration
Spend a couple of hours immersing yourself in the garden's beauty, discovering its hidden corners
Jardin des plantes (Photo: Koszecz Sándor / Pixabay)
Located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, the Jardin des Plantes is not just a park, but a botanical garden and research center as well. The garden dates back to the early 17th century, and it was initially created as a medicinal garden for French royalty. It was later opened to the public in the late 18th century, becoming a place where people could appreciate the beauty of nature and learn about botanical science.
When you enter the Jardin des Plantes, you will be greeted by a diverse range of landscapes and gardens. The Alpine Garden, with its rocky terrain and alpine plants, transports you to the mountains, while the Rose Garden entices you with its vibrant blooms and intoxicating scents. One of the highlights of the garden is the greenhouses, which house an incredible array of exotic plants from around the world. Stepping inside these structures is like entering a tropical paradise, with lush foliage, colorful flowers, and the soothing sound of water features.
As you stroll through the Jardin des Plantes, you will come across elegant avenues lined with beautiful trees, fountains, and ponds that add to the garden’s charm. Take your time to explore the different sections of the garden and discover hidden corners where you can sit and relax amidst the beauty of nature. Don’t forget to visit the Menagerie, one of the world’s oldest zoos, which is nestled within the boundaries of the Jardin des Plantes. Here, you can observe and learn about a wide variety of animal species, making your visit to the garden even more memorable.
Nature Trail 2
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Location
1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris
Size
0.3 km2 / 24.7 hectares / 61 acres
Distance from City Centre
Approximately 5 km / 3 miles
Accessibility
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is well-connected by public transport, with nearby metro and bus stations providing easy access
Typical Visit Duration
Set aside a few hours to fully appreciate the park's unique charm and perhaps enjoy a picnic by the lake
Parc des Buttes Chaumont (Photo: Guilhem Vellut)
Nestled in the north-eastern part of Paris, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a hidden gem that offers a rugged and hilly landscape. Created in the mid-19th century, the park is known for its picturesque beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
As you enter the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, you will be greeted by cliffs, waterfalls, and a picturesque lake that creates a serene and tranquil setting. The winding paths will lead you through lush greenery, inviting you to explore every corner of the park. One of the iconic features of the park is the Temple de la Sibylle, a beautiful monument perched on an artificial island in the middle of the lake. Crossing the suspension bridge to reach the temple is an adventure in itself, and once you are there, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the park and the city beyond.
Exploring Parc des Buttes-Chaumont also means discovering hidden gems along the way. Venture into the enchanting grotto, which is tucked away within the park, and admire its mysterious beauty. Find a quiet spot on one of the park’s immaculate green lawns, lay down a blanket, and have a picnic with a view. The park’s natural beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, whether it’s for a leisurely walk, a peaceful read, or simply to enjoy the serenity of nature.
Nature Trail 3
Bois de Vincennes
Location
Route de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris
Size
10 km2 / 995 hectares / 2,459 acres
Distance from City Centre
Approximately 9 km / 6 miles
Accessibility
Bois de Vincennes is easily accessible by public transport, with several metro and bus lines providing convenient connections
Typical Visit Duration
Plan for a half-day or full-day excursion to fully explore the park's vastness and enjoy its various attractions
Bois de Vincennes (Photo: Georges Seguin)
Located towards the eastern outskirts of Paris, the Bois de Vincennes is the largest public park in the city. Spanning over 2000 acres, this vast forested area offers a diverse range of natural habitats, including woodlands, lakes, and meadows, making it one of the most fascinating locations for nature lovers.
The Bois de Vincennes is not just a park; it is a place where you can immerse yourself in nature’s wonders and explore a multitude of attractions and activities. From a zoo to a botanical garden, a medieval castle to a horse racing track, this park has something for everyone. However, the true beauty of the Bois de Vincennes lies within its walking trails that wind through the forest, allowing you to discover the park’s hidden treasures.
One of the most popular trails in the Bois de Vincennes is the Promenade Plantée, which is an old railway line transformed into a picturesque path. Walking along this elevated pathway offers stunning views of the park and its surroundings, giving you a unique perspective on nature and urbanism intertwining. As you meander through the park, you will come across beautiful lakes, such as the Lac Daumesnil, where you can rent a rowboat and enjoy a peaceful ride on the water. The park is also home to the Parc Floral de Paris, a stunning floral display that bursts with colors and scents throughout the year. Take a leisurely walk through the trails, relax by the lakes, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature that surrounds you at every turn.
Nature Trail 4
Parc Monceau
Location
35 Boulevard de Courcelles, 75008 Paris
Size
0.1 km2 / 8.2 hectares / 20 acres
Distance from City Centre
Approximately 4 km / 2.5 miles
Accessibility
Parc Monceau is conveniently located near several metro stations, making it easily accessible by public transport
Typical Visit Duration
Spend an hour or two immersing yourself in the park's elegance, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or finding a serene spot for a peaceful picnic
Parc Monceau (Source: wallpaperflare)
If you’re looking for an intimate and elegant park that offers a peaceful escape from the city, then Parc Monceau is the place to go. Located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, this park is known for its picturesque charm and classical architecture, creating a perfect balance between nature and man-made structures.
As you enter Parc Monceau, you will immediately feel the tranquility enveloping you. The carefully landscaped gardens, picturesque ponds, and majestic trees blend harmoniously to create an oasis in the heart of Paris. The pathways through the park offer plenty of opportunities for leisurely walks and contemplation.
Admire the classical architecture of the colonnade or the Roman ruins that dot the landscape. Discover hidden gems, such as the Temple of Mars or the Egyptian pyramid, that give the park an air of mystery and intrigue. Parc Monceau is a place where you can find peace and serenity amidst the city’s bustle, a refuge for nature lovers seeking a tranquil escape.
Nature Trail 5
Parc de la Villette
Location
211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris
Size
0.6 km2 / 55 hectares / 136 acres
Distance from City Centre
Approximately 6 km / 4 miles
Accessibility
Parc de la Villette is well-served by public transport, with several metro and tramway stations in close proximity
Typical Visit Duration
The park's vibrant atmosphere and cultural offerings make it a destination worthy of a half-day visit
Parc de La Villette (Photo: Guilhem Vellut)
Located in the north-eastern part of Paris, Parc de la Villette stands out from other parks in the city due to its contemporary architecture and innovative blend of nature and cultural attractions. Spanning over 55 hectares, this unique park offers a spacious and open environment where art and nature come together in perfect harmony.
As you explore Parc de la Villette, you will be captivated by its unconventional design and imaginative landscapes. The park is divided into different themed gardens, each with its own unique sensory experience. From the music-themed garden, where you can play with musical sculptures, to the nature-themed garden, where you can immerse yourself in a world of lush vegetation and calming water features, every step through the park will lead you to new discoveries.
One of the iconic features of Parc de la Villette is the Geode, a magnificent sphere-shaped cinema that showcases breathtaking films on a giant screen. The surrounding area is a lively cultural hub, with theaters, exhibition spaces, and concert halls hosting a wide range of events and performances throughout the year. Whether you attend a concert, visit an exhibition, or simply relax in the park, you will be surrounded by the artistic wonders that make Parc de la Villette a unique destination in Paris.
Paris is a city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. While its iconic landmarks and vibrant city life often steal the spotlight, the city is also home to a variety of nature trails that allow you to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world. From the historical Jardin des Plantes to the picturesque Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, each nature trail presents its own unique landscape, walking trails, and opportunities to get closer to nature.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat, these nature trails offer a chance to reconnect with nature’s tranquility and find solace amidst the urban landscape.
Photo: Guilhem Vellut
So, next time you find yourself in Paris, make sure to set aside some time to explore these hidden gems. Put on your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey that will take you to the heart of nature in the City of Light. Happy exploring!
Travel Booking Recommendations
Flights
Hotels
Airport Transfers
Car Rentals
Tours & Activities
Travel Insurance
Affiliate Links Disclosure
Best City Walks is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our website, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend genuine, popular products and services that we have used and/or trust ourselves.
