a guide to Bois de Boulogne
about Bois de Boulogne
Supposedly modelled on London's Hyde Park, the Bois de Boulogne has officially been part of the 16ème since 1929. It is one of the few officially Parisian areas that lies outside the Périphérique, and as such is considered by some as not being properly part of the city. Nevertheless, one of Paris's largest green spaces has much to offer.
Few places in the park offer more relaxation than its numerous gardens. The Jardin de Bagatelle contains a quaint little château and rose garden, while the Jardin d'Acclimatation is a children's theme park containing a menagerie of animals and many other family-oriented activities. The unique Shakespeare Garden contains every plant that has at some point been mentioned in one of the bard's plays.
The Hippodrome de Longchamp hosts horse racing all year round, but is best known for staging the annual Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. The smaller, less prestigious horse racing venue Hippodrome Auteuil is also found in the park.
Other attractions include the Lac d'Inferieur, where families are often found sailing model boats and the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires.
Our tip: Sports fans should note the presence of two historic venues at the nearby Parc des Princes and Roland Garros.
top hotels in Bois De BoulogneHotels in Bois de Boulogne
how to get there
by car
Exit the Périphérique at Junction 11 (Porte de Saint-Cloud) and take the first right off the slip road, before turning right at the first opportunity onto Rue Général Niox. From here, finding the islands is a simple matter of following the river around, with the Pont Neuf appearing on your right just after the Louvre on the left, and access is available via a choice of bridges.
For satellite navigation systems enter postcode 75004.
Nearest underground parking: Pont Neuf/Harlay, Quai des Orfévres, 75004
by bus
The 21, 38, 58, 70, 85 and 96 services run through the centre of the Île de la Cité, while those wishing to start their visit on the Île Saint Louis should take the number 67 bus.
by tube
Nearest station: Cité (Line 4)
From Gare du Nord: Take Line 4 towards Porte d'Orléans straight to Cité (8 stops).
From Gare de Lyon: Take Line 14 towards Saint Lazare, changing at Châtelet (1 stop) for Line 4 in the direction of Porte d'Orléans, which will take you to Cité (1 stop).
From Gare Montparnasse: Take Line 4 towards Porte de Clignancourt, which stops at Cité (7 stops).
by train
Nearest RER station: St-Michel-Nôtre-Dame (RER B, RER C)
attractions
upcoming events
Dec 10
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Dec 13
Despite an initial shaky start, Honoré de Balzac became one of French literature's most famous names. His former home, the Maison de Balzac in Paris, is open to the public, his writing desk still intact.
Dec 10
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21
Dec 13
Cité de l'Architecture in the Chaillot district houses over 850 copies of architectural treasures. Moulded portions of churches, châteaux and great French cathedrals like Chartres sit alongside reconstructions of modern architecture including a mock-up Le Corbusier apartment.
May 09
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25
May 12
Winelovers should prioritise Paris's Musée du Vin during their trip. By the Eiffel Tower, the museum's ancient vaults house a collection of winemaking artefacts and memorabilia. Entry includes a free glass of wine (book in advance for tastings in English).
