Parc de Bagatelle

Created in 1775, this tree-filled park, along with the Parc Floral and the Bois de Vincennes, is one of four botanical gardens in the capital. It was originally the ornamental landscape designed for the castle built here in the record time of 64 days following a bet between Marie-Antoinette and her brother-in-law, the Count of Artois. That is how the "Folie d'Artois" got its name. The 18th century charm of this spot can also be found in the gardens at the Palace of Versailles.

Your visit to this immense garden at the edge of the bois de Boulogne begins with a stop before the château and the Trianon. Then take the time to wander through the pathways to discover the various constructions and features built at the time of its creation. The pavilions, the empress's kiosk and the orangery (built after the French Revolution) dazzle with their classic beauty throughout your visit. Do not miss out on the admirable Chinese pagoda, a 19th-century addition that reinforces the Anglo-Chinese character of the décor at Bagatelle.

In the garden, a variety of trees and flowers compose a harmonious but diverse ensemble with many ponds featuring artificial grottos, small bridges, reflecting pools and cascades. Around 15 notable trees, plus cedars, oaks, beeches, plane trees and pines offer welcome shade.

A park for the queen of flowers

The Parc de Bagatelle is famous for its rose garden where you can marvel at 10,000 plants from 1,200 different species when they bloom in the late spring. There are other gardens to discover as you stroll: the garden of curiosities, the Mediterranean garden, the orangery, the demonstration garden and the iris garden, all of which highlight the immense variety of plants that populate Bagatelle.

Wildlife also makes itself at home in the lush and colourful vegetation of the blower beds and clumps. You may be lucky enough to come across a squirrel, a peacock or even a woodpecker!

In summer, the park hosts numerous events, including a classical music festival.
On site, you will find everything you need for a seamless visit, including a variety of services (bike parking, water fountains, snack bar). And if children want to move a little, a playground and picnic tables are available. But you just might prefer the lawn on the playground between the park and the Seine, which is open all year round.
Who said there was no nature in the city?

Continue exploring the gardens of the Paris Region with our guides Our 10 favourite gardens in and around Paris and Our favourite rose gardens in the Paris Region.