Audio GuideBois de Vincennes
City green space on 995 hectares with biking/hiking trails & lakes, plus a botanical garden & zoo.
Welcome to Bois de Vincennes, the largest public park in Paris, where its rich historical past gracefully intertwines with contemporary leisure activities. Originally cherished as a royal hunting ground by French monarchs like King Louis the Fourteenth and steeped in legends involving Saint Louis, the park was transformed into a public space by Napoleon the Third between eighteen fifty-five and eighteen sixty-six. Today, this historical tapestry is woven through its four man-made lakes, including Lac Daumesnil, where a pair of small islands are elegantly connected by a suspension bridge.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic pathways, revelling in the charming bridges and meticulously maintained gardens. Nearby, historical sites such as the medieval keep and Château de Vincennes echo tales of royal tradition, while the Pagode de Vincennes and a Tibetan Buddhist temple display artistic influences from far-off cultures.
Aside from its history, the park is a vibrant venue for modern activities, ranging from outdoor sports to artistic festivals. The Parc Floral de Paris, with its array of sculptures and lush botanical attractions, as well as the Paris Zoological Park, offers engaging experiences for families. Once the site of colonial expos and Olympic cycling events, Bois de Vincennes remains a culturally vibrant, verdant refuge offering opportunities for relaxation, appreciation of nature, and community gatherings.