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Parc Montsouris

4.6
·17k reviews·Paris, France

A serene, English-style garden in Paris's 14th arrondissement, perfect for picnics, family fun, and peaceful strolls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Het meer

Parc Montsouris

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene, English-style garden in Paris's 14th arrondissement, perfect for picnics, family fun, and peaceful strolls.

4.6
(17k reviews)

"A true corner of nature in the heart of the 14th arrondissement, perfect for walking barefoot and soaking up the sun."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic on the lush lawns. Perfect for a budget-friendly meal.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the park's paths, so wear comfy shoes! [:athletic_shoe:]

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Serene Lake

The Serene Lake

Center of the park

A picturesque lake with a charming island, perfect for a peaceful stroll or people-watching.

Architectural Gems

Architectural Gems

Around the park

Discover unique buildings like the Château de la Reine Blanche and the Cité Internationale Universitaire nearby.

Playgrounds Galore

Playgrounds Galore

Various locations

Multiple well-equipped play areas make this park a hit with families and children.

Bucolic Pathways

Bucolic Pathways

Throughout the park

Winding paths lined with mature trees offer a tranquil escape for walkers and runners.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Parc Montsouris is a beloved spot for Parisians, especially students and families. Visit on a weekday to experience its calm atmosphere, or enjoy the livelier weekend scene with picnics and runners. It's a great escape from the city bustle.

Picnic Perfect & Playtime

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the well-maintained lawns, or grab a snack from a park kiosk. With several playgrounds, it's an ideal destination for families with young children looking for a relaxing day out.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively local scene
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful fall colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Des urbexeurs se sont introduits dans le réservoir d'eau de Paris ! #urbex #illegal #reservoir #eau #paris
@gabietcoco
112.1K likes • 845.8K views

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic on the lush lawns. Perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the park's paths, so wear comfy shoes! [:athletic_shoe:]

Exclusivité - Parc Montsouris - Duplex d'exception L'appartement de 160 m2 et 90 m2 de terrasses plein ciel s'étend sur les deux derniers étages d'un immeuble contemporain. Une configuration idéale offrant une vue panoramique sur le parc. Contactez-moi pour plus d'informations : ablandin@varenne.fr
@antoinebland1
41.5K likes • 436.4K views
Paris in fall 🍂 📍Parc Montsouris 📍Jardin de Luxembourg . . . #travelinspiration #paris #fall #autumninparis #parisfrance #parismaville #vivreparis #autumn #fallvibes #indiantravelblogger #explore #exploreparis #fallinparis #autumncolors #parisblogger #fallseason #parismood #parisienne #parisian #parislovers #parissecret #shewhowanders Where to see fall foliage in Paris, Paris during fall season...
saptaparnineogi
246 likes • 3.1K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners. Reddit

🎶 Acoustic Sessions

You might catch impromptu acoustic music performances, adding to the park's charm. Instagram

Connaissez-vous le Parc Montsouris ? 🤩🦆⁠ ⁠ 📸 @paris_mypendulumlife⁠ ⁠ #parc #parcparis #montsouris #parcmontsouris #pariscity #parismaville #parisparis #parisian #parisvibes #parismood #sortiràparis #exploreparis
parissecret
1.7K likes • 79.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic on the lush lawns. Perfect for a budget-friendly meal. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the park's paths, so wear comfy shoes! [:athletic_shoe:]

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners. Reddit

🎶 Acoustic Sessions

You might catch impromptu acoustic music performances, adding to the park's charm. Instagram

☕ Grab a Treat

There's a restaurant and kiosks for coffee and snacks, convenient for a quick bite. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(17k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Parc Montsouris is widely praised as a beautiful and well-maintained green space, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and family outings. Visitors appreciate its calm atmosphere, especially during weekdays, and the various amenities like playgrounds and a lake. Some note that dogs are allowed on leash, and while it's a great spot for trail running, off-leash areas are limited.

"Very beautiful park with a small lake. Several playgrounds for little kids. A nice restaurant and a stand for coffee and snacks. Nice walking paths with many trees, well maintained grass for picnic. 2 public toilets and several fountains available for drinking water. Perfect place for families with children"

Ching-Yen CHENG

"I hadn’t been back to Parc Montsouris since 1982 when I was training for the 1982 Paris Marathon, my very first. It’s about 3/4’s of a mile or 1.2 km along the periphery. There’s a couple of restaurants, kiosks, etc. Great place for a leisurely stroll."

Chris B

"Always nice for a walk or a picnic. But it gets real busy when sunny."

AT

What People Like

Beautiful green space
Family-friendly playgrounds
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited off-leash dog areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parc Montsouris is easily accessible by public transport. The RER B line (Cité Universitaire station) is a short walk away. Several bus lines also serve the area, including lines 21, 67, and 88. TikTokInstagram

Street parking is available in the surrounding streets, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially on weekends. Public transport is generally recommended. TikTok

Taking the RER B to Cité Universitaire is a direct and efficient route from central Paris. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the park entrance. TikTok

Yes, Paris has an extensive network of bike lanes, and you can cycle to Parc Montsouris. There are also Velib' bike-sharing stations nearby. [:bike:]

Parc Montsouris is located near the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris, known for its diverse architecture. It's also a pleasant walk or short bus ride from the charming Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Parc Montsouris is completely free to enter and explore. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities without any admission fee. TikTok

The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific hours can vary slightly by season, but it's typically accessible throughout the day. [:clock3:]

No, no tickets are required for Parc Montsouris as it is a public park. You can simply walk in and enjoy your visit. [:ticket:]

Generally, there are no major restrictions, but standard park rules apply regarding littering and respecting the flora and fauna. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Reddit

The park is typically closed after sunset. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy its features. [:moon:]

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy leisurely walks, have picnics on the lawns, let children play in the playgrounds, admire the lake and its island, and simply relax amidst nature. InstagramReddit

Yes, the park features several well-maintained playgrounds, making it a fantastic destination for families with kids. Reddit

Absolutely! The park's spacious lawns are perfect for picnics. Many visitors bring their own food and enjoy a meal outdoors. Reddit

Yes, there are public restrooms located within the park for visitors' convenience. Reddit

The park's paths and open spaces make it a popular spot for runners and joggers looking for a scenic route. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant located within the park, offering a place to dine. Additionally, there are kiosks for coffee and snacks. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics. It's a great way to enjoy the park affordably. Reddit

The kiosks typically offer coffee, ice cream, and light snacks, perfect for a quick refreshment during your visit. Reddit

While there are many grassy areas ideal for picnics, dedicated picnic tables might be limited. It's best to bring a blanket. Reddit

Yes, there are fountains providing drinking water throughout the park, and you can also purchase beverages from the kiosks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake with its island, the mature trees, the charming bridges, and the surrounding unique architecture offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Parc Montsouris is stunning in autumn, with vibrant fall foliage creating a beautiful backdrop for photos. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in Parisian parks for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check specific regulations before flying a drone. [:noentrysign:]

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the best light for photography, creating a soft, warm glow. Instagram

Yes, the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris, adjacent to the park, features a variety of distinctive architectural styles perfect for photography. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Parc Montsouris is a top choice for families. With its multiple playgrounds, well-maintained lawns perfect for running, and a charming lake, kids will have a blast. The park is also very dog-friendly (on leash), so your furry friends can join the fun too. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grass – it's a budget-friendly and enjoyable way to spend the afternoon. There's also a restaurant and snack kiosks for convenience. The park's calm atmosphere during weekdays makes it ideal for a relaxed family outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful escape, Parc Montsouris offers a tranquil retreat. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along its winding paths, find a quiet bench by the lake, or simply relax on the grass and soak up the Parisian atmosphere. Instagram

It's a perfect spot for reading a book, sketching, or enjoying a quiet moment away from the city's hustle. The park's natural beauty, especially during autumn, provides a romantic and serene backdrop. Instagram

🏃‍♂️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts

Parc Montsouris is a great place for a run or jog. The park's looping paths and varied terrain offer a pleasant challenge. You can easily track your distance around the park's perimeter. Reddit

It's a popular spot for local runners, so you'll find a friendly community atmosphere. The scenic views and fresh air make your workout much more enjoyable than on city streets. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Design

Parc Montsouris was created during the Second French Empire under Napoleon III, as part of a grand plan to create green spaces across Paris. Inspired by English landscape gardens, it was designed by Jean-Charles Alphand, the same landscape architect behind other iconic Parisian parks like Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes. The park's design emphasizes naturalistic beauty, with winding paths, a central lake, and a variety of trees and plants. Instagram

The park's creation was a significant undertaking, transforming a former gypsum quarry into a picturesque oasis. It was intended to provide recreational space for the residents of the southern districts of Paris, offering a much-needed respite from urban life. The park's relatively large size and varied topography contribute to its charm and appeal. Instagram

Today, Parc Montsouris continues to be a cherished green lung for the 14th arrondissement. It retains its historical charm while serving as a vibrant hub for locals. Its proximity to the Cité Internationale Universitaire also means it's a popular spot for students, adding a youthful energy to its serene atmosphere. TikTok

Family Fun and Playtime

Parc Montsouris is a dream destination for families with young children. The park boasts multiple well-equipped playgrounds, ensuring that kids of all ages can find something to enjoy. These play areas are designed to be safe and engaging, offering a variety of swings, slides, and climbing structures. Reddit

Beyond the playgrounds, the park's open lawns are perfect for running around, playing games, or simply enjoying the fresh air. The shallow lake is also a point of interest for children, though supervision is always advised. The presence of a restaurant and snack kiosks makes it easy to manage meal times and keep energy levels up during a family outing. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the park's suitability for picnics, which is a fantastic way to make a family day out both enjoyable and budget-friendly. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a stress-free environment for parents and a fun-filled adventure for kids. Reddit

Photography Opportunities

Parc Montsouris offers a wealth of picturesque scenes for photographers. The central lake, complete with its charming island and small waterfall, provides a serene focal point. The mature trees, some of which are quite old, create beautiful natural frames and add depth to compositions. Instagram+1

During autumn, the park transforms into a riot of color, making it an ideal location for capturing vibrant fall foliage. The winding paths and bridges offer dynamic lines and interesting perspectives. For those interested in architecture, the unique buildings of the Cité Internationale Universitaire, located just across the street, present a fascinating contrast and complement to the park's natural beauty. TikTokInstagram

Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' provide the softest, most flattering light for photography. The park's tranquil ambiance during weekdays also allows for unhurried shooting, while the livelier weekend atmosphere can offer more candid, dynamic shots of people enjoying the space. Instagram