Set in the south-east corner of the city, Bois de Vincennes is one of the largest and most beautiful public parks in Paris. The 995-hectare park was laid out in the 1800s by Emperor Napoleon III and is designed to enchant visitors with its grassy meadows, sun-dappled woodlands and flower-filled gardens.
Once a hunting estate for French royalty, the park has been reimagined as a beautiful public space. Enjoy a picnic on the emerald green lawns and admire colourful flowers and plant species in the Parc Floral de Paris botanical gardens. Scenic trails wind through the wild woodlands and are great for stretching your legs.
Within the park, Chateau de Vincennes is a lavish royal palace surrounded by a picturesque moat. Kids love getting up close with exotic animals at Parc Zoologique de Paris and exploring the adventure playgrounds. In summer, rowboat rentals are a great way to enjoy the lake.
Getting there
Bois de Vincennes is located in the 12th arrondissement, a 20-minute drive from the city centre of Paris. Limited parking is available on the street and at nearby garages while trains call at several stations, including Porte Doree, Porte de Charenton and Liberte. Paris-Charles De Gaulle Airport is a 30-minute drive north.