Bois de Boulogne

The basics

Western Paris’ Bois de Boulogne offers visitors a vast expanse with almost unlimited recreational opportunities, from scenic walking trails to a raft of cultural and sporting hot spots. For a tranquil time in nature, head to the Parc de Bagatelle (complete with a small château and a garden boasting more than 1,000 varieties of roses), the Parc Floral, or the Serres d’Auteuil greenhouses.

Families can also enjoy a day out at the retro Jardin d’Acclimatation amusement park, while arty travelers can explore the modern and contemporary works at Fondation Louis Vuitton. During the French Open, crowds flock to the Stade Roland-Garros. And for a fancy day out, there are the park’s two famous racecourses—Longchamp and Auteuil—as well as Le Pré Catelan, a three-Michelin-starred temple of fine dining.

Things to know before you go

• he Bois de Boulogne is free for all to enter, and you do not need tickets or reservations for the park.
• Dogs are welcome in the park, but must be kept on a leash.
• You’re likely to do a lot of walking here, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes, or go by bike to see more of the sights.
• Public bathrooms are not widely available in the park, though individual attractions and museums have their own facilities.
• Take care around the Allée de Longchamp, especially at night; it has been a site for sex work and solicitations in the past.

How to get there

The Bois de Boulogne is located at the westernmost edge of Paris in the 16th arrondissement, abutting the Seine River. By public transit, take the 1 train of the Paris Métro to Neuilly–Porte Maillot; take the 2 to Porte Dauphine; the 9 to Michel-Ange Auteuil; or the 9 or 10 to Porte d’Auteuil. The RER C and E also serve the park, as does the T3b tramway.

When to get there

The Bois de Boulogne is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Aim to visit on a good-weather day to make the most of the landmark. The park will be especially busy during some of its most popular annual events, including the French Open, the Parc Floral's summer jazz concerts, and when horse races are held at the Longchamp and Auteuil Racecourses.

The Bois de Vincennes

For all its size, the Bois de Boulogne is still not the biggest park in Paris. That honor goes to the Bois de Vincennes, set in the city’s southeast. Home to extensive walking and cycling trails, as well as a zoo, a château, and a botanical garden, it, too, offers almost endless possibilities for discovery.

Ways to explore

Western Paris' Bois de Boulogne is foremost a peaceful green retreat. Soak up the scenery at the Parc de Bagatelle, home to a small château and a garden boasting more than 1,000 varieties of roses, or visit the Serres d'Auteuil greenhouses.

Families can enjoy a day out at the retro Jardin d'Acclimatation amusement park, while art lovers will enjoy exhibitions at the Louis Vuitton Foundation. For an upscale experience, there are the park's two famous racecourses, Longchamp and Auteuil; the Stade Roland-Garros, home to the French Open; and Le Pré Catelan, a 3-Michelin-starred temple of fine dining.

Accessibility

Some paths in the Bois de Boulogne are paved and level, but others are uneven or have stairs. Individual attractions have varied accessibility accommodations.

Age limits

None, although individual park venues may have age limits.

What to pack

Sun protection, umbrella, bug spray, picnic supplies

What to wear

Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers.

Not allowed

Barbecues, swimming in the park’s lakes, walking dogs off-leash

Amenities

Public restrooms, cafés, bike rentals, public transit

Address

The Bois de Boulogne is located at Paris’ western edge. The area is served by multiple public transit routes, as well as taxis and rideshare services. Paid parking lots are also available for those who wish to drive, while tours with included transit are a convenient way to get there.

Driving

The Bois de Boulogne is accessible via Paris’ Boulévard Périphérique ring road. Multiple paid parking lots are located in and around the park.

Public transportation

Metro line 1 stops at numerous points along the park’s northern edge, and lines 9 and 10 serve its southern end. RER C commuter train runs along its eastern side.

Best times to visit

The best time to visit the Bois de Boulogne is during the day, particularly if you want to take advantage of its many gardens and open-air attractions. Owing to safety issues, it’s not recommended to visit after dark.

Best days to visit

The Bois de Boulogne is open daily. Weekends are the most popular time to visit, while weekdays are less busy.

Best months to visit

Spring and summer to see the gardens in full bloom and enjoy the most pleasant weather.

Special events

In June, attend the Rose Weekend at the Parc de Bagatelle. Throughout the summer, see open-air theater as part of the Festival du Théâtre de Verdure. Bring young visitors to the October Fête or Funfair.