Bois de Boulogne: Parisian Escape

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Escape to nature in Paris's Bois de Boulogne: a historic park with gardens, lakes, and attractions for all ages.

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Bois de Boulogne

The Bois de Boulogne, a sprawling park on the western edge of Paris, offers a green oasis for Parisians and tourists alike. Once a royal hunting forest, it was transformed into a public park in the mid-19th century under Emperor Napoleon III, inspired by London's Hyde Park. Today, it features lakes, gardens, and various attractions, providing a refreshing escape from the city's hustle.

A brief summary to Bois de Boulogne

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bois de Boulogne.

Explore the park by renting a bike to cover more ground and discover hidden corners along the extensive network of paths.
Visit the Jardin d'Acclimatation for family-friendly fun, including amusement park rides, animal exhibits, and cultural activities.
Check the event schedule for horse races at the Hippodrome de Longchamp or Hippodrome d'Auteuil for a unique Parisian experience.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Lac Inférieur, the largest lake in the park, and observe the diverse waterfowl.
Visit the Bois de Boulogne during the summer to enjoy open-air theater performances and jazz concerts.

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Getting There

Public Transport

Several metro and RER stations provide access to the Bois de Boulogne. Metro lines 1, 2, 9, and 10 have stations near different entrances. RER C also stops at stations within walking distance. From central Paris, take Metro Line 1 towards La Défense and get off at Porte Maillot. From there, it's a short walk to the northern part of the Bois. A single metro ticket costs €2.10.
Walking

From the 16th arrondissement, the Bois de Boulogne is easily accessible on foot. Depending on your starting point, you can enter the park from various points along its perimeter. For example, from Porte Maillot, walk along Boulevard Maurice Barrès to enter the northern part of the Bois. Walking within the park is free.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off at various entrances to the Bois de Boulogne. A taxi from the Eiffel Tower to the Jardin d'Acclimatation, located at the northern end of the Bois, will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Bois de Boulogne

The Bois de Boulogne, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, is more than just a park; it's a historic landscape transformed into a beloved recreational space. Originating as the ancient Rouvray Forest, a royal hunting ground, the area has evolved through centuries of royal use, wartime devastation, and finally, its redesign as a public park between 1852 and 1858.Under Napoleon III, the Bois de Boulogne was transformed, drawing inspiration from London's Hyde Park. The park boasts two large lakes connected by a waterfall, extensive walking paths, and diverse vegetation. Within its bounds, visitors can discover the Jardin d'Acclimatation (an amusement park), botanical gardens, the Longchamp and Auteuil racecourses, and the Louis Vuitton Foundation.The park's rich history is palpable, with remnants of royal hunting grounds and references in famous French literature. Today, the Bois de Boulogne serves as a vital green space for Parisians, offering a place for relaxation, sports, and cultural activities. Whether you're picnicking by the Lac Inférieur, exploring the rose gardens at the Château de Bagatelle, or attending a horse race, the Bois de Boulogne provides a diverse range of experiences.