Public gardens with children's carousel
Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6000
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Public gardens with children's carousel |
Place Masséna Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6000 |
This is the ideal place to take a break and unwind before continuing a tour of the city. It is a haven of tranquillity with a large lawn, fountains, pine and palm trees and inviting blue chairs, perfectly placed to connect Vieux-Nice, the city centre and the seaside Promenade des Anglais. The kids will be delighted to ride in the charming wrought-iron merry-go-round, playing cheery tunes on the rare occasions it is in operation. You cannot miss the towering arc-shaped sculpture, created by artist Bernar Venet. The Albert I garden is among the oldest in the city and was named after the Belgian king in 1914. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: crystalseas |
A large and modern park |
Quai André Citroën Paris 75015 +33 1 4742 9056 (Ministry of Tourism) info@visitluxembourg.org |
Like many other green Parisian parks, the Andre-Citroën park is quite formal in its design: terraces, lawns and symmetrically arranged flower beds. It is dedicated to the famous car inventor, Citroën, whose first factory was situated near the banks of Javel nearby. Divided into 'black', 'white', 'red', and 'blue' gardens, it has a modern, futuristic aspect, emphasised by the large concrete patio, which dominates the 'white' garden. Mostly visited by Parisians living in the area, it is fairly sheltered from the crowds of tourists who flock to the more famous parks. The visit is worthwhile though to see its cascades, luxurious plants, towers, lilies and its tranquillity. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christina Hicks |
 Photo: TijsB |
 Photo: Lisa Wallace |
 Photo: Elisa Vaz Ribeiro |
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 Photo: jili'm |
 Photo: swyky35 |
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 Photo: bourget_82  |
 Photo: Dionysis Kouvelas |
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 Photo: destin ferdun |
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Another fabulous new park! |
Rue Paul-Belmondo Paris 75012 |
Until its decline in the 1960s, the area now covered by the Parc de Bercy was the bustling centre for wine importation and storage in Paris. Wine arrived by barge and by train; the rails of the latter can still be seen in what are now the pathways of the park. The long-abandoned warehouses have been replaced by a neat garden, with wide lawns at one end and lines of plants, including a small vineyard, in the centre. Landscaped hills, with fountains and ponds, manage to make the bizarre architecture of the nearby Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy (Paris-Bercy Multipurpose Sports Arena) a little less of an eyesore. In order that the illustrious history of the spot not be forgotten, there is a little exhibition telling the story of wine in Paris. The Maison du Jardinage (Gardening Centre) is in the Parc de Bercy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kalevkevad |
 Photo: pninaN |
More than 100,000 trees! |
Bois de Boulogne Paris 75016 +33 1 4742 9056 (Ministry of Tourism) info@visitluxembourg.org |
The Bois de Boulogne stretches over 863 hectares and is known as much for its unsalubrious associations as its variety of trees and vegetation. It was named after the sanctuary Notre-Dame de Boulogne le Petit under the reign of Philippe IV, known as Philippe le Bel. It was then partly converted to a royal hunting ground before being redesigned to include wide alleyways inviting elegant Parisians to take a stroll. Today, there are sports grounds, a swimming pool, cafés and restaurants to attract Parisians in search of nature. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Remy Amouroux |
 Photo: Coccinelle |
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 Photo: Martine LE BIANNIC |
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A green expanse to the east |
Bois de Vincennes Paris 75012 +33 1 4742 9056 (Ministry of Tourism) http://www.boisdevincennes.com/ info@visitluxembourg.org |
The largest park in Paris was originally a forest named Vilcena which surrounded Lutèce (the Gaul name for Paris)and became the property of the King in the 11th century. Following its destruction during the Revolution, the army installed themselves here in 1794. It was only in 1857 that Napoleon III decided to transform it into an English-style park. It took three years work. Today, it looks very much the way it did after the renovations: vast lawns, charming paths and a stunning network of waterfalls, islands and pools. The three lakes, Minimes, Saint Mandé and Gravelle were put in at this time. When the city of Paris took over the park in 1860, they added the lac de Daumesnil. Visitors can hire boats on the lakes, explore the tropical garden, the Buddhist and Tibetan temples and visit the musée des Arts Africains et Océaniens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Magnificent park |
Avenue du Parc Borély Marseilles 13008 +33 491 76 5938 |
This magnificent 54-hectare park to the south of the city was designed by landscape gardener Alphan. Water is a major feature here, with beautiful ponds and lakes throughout. An 18th century country house stands in the heart of this open space, complimented beautifully by a garden "à la française" and a 19th century landscaped park. Other points of interest include botanical gardens with a rose garden and tropical greenhouse. Children love coming here to feed the ducks, take the go-carts for a spin, or watch the model boats sailing on the lake. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dragan Antonijevic |
 Photo: Shadow Walker |
 Photo: Shadow Walker |
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An open-air museum for plant life |
78 Corniche Fleurie Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6200 +33 4 9229 4180 http://www.nice.fr/mairie_nice... jardin.botanique@ville-nice.fr |
Nice's botanical garden really couldn't be anywhere else but on the aptly named Corniche-Fleurie, meaning 'Flowered Balcony'. Literally a museum out in the great wide open, spread over three hectares, this garden grows an impressive quantity of different Mediterranean floral species. Remarkably well kept throughout, it's somewhat of a surprise that so few Niçois actually come to visit. A car-park is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: senorward |
A botanical gem |
57 Rue Cuvier Paris 75005 +33 1 4079 3000 http://www.mnhn.fr/ |
A wander around this beautifully-composed formal garden is the perfect antidote to city stress. Visit the main greenhouse for a look at its rare plants, discover the small zoo or explore one of the museums on site, which include the Grande Galerie de l'Evolution and the Musée de Paléontologie. Created in 1635 by Louis XIII's physician Guy de la Brosse, the garden's initial aim was to illustrate plants' medicinal properties to medical students. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kila (kee-la) |
 Photo: Lina Tengvar |
Recalled to history |
Chateau Breteuil Choisel 78460 +33 (0)1 3052 0502 http://www.breteuil.fr |
This Historic Castle, with its parks and fountains is a haven for nature lovers. Transport yourself back to the 17th century as the guides of this castle take you through this huge estate in 17th century costumes. Annually, this castle gets 100,000 visitors and is one of the most frequented places in France. The historic rooms, the lush gardens and the wax figures invite you to explore this private estate. Belonging to the 10th marquis of Breteuil, this castle has France's largest dovecotes that were built in the 15th century. It is home to 3,000 pigeons. Don't be surprised if you see peacocks parading as you stroll down the gardens. Charles de Ferault has also been an inspiration for the parks in this castle. Add this place to your list of "things to see" in Paris. Admission: £9.90 adults, £8.90. Check website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: HoboInParis.com |
A green paradise |
Rue Botzaris Paris 75019 |
This charming park, opened in 1867, is one of the many masterpieces of Baron Haussman, who shaped so much of modern Paris. The park is a popular city centre haven for nature lovers and walkers as well as families and sportsmen. The varied setting includes open lawns, trees, a lake and a hilltop 'temple' reached by a suspension bridge and offering splendid views. Don't forget to visit the famous grotto and waterfall. A miniature version of New York's Central Park in the heart of Paris! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jean-Louis Vandevivè |
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Urban planning with lilacs |
Place Octave-Chanute Paris 75020 |
An architectural and town planning gem, this housing complex was built in 1908, consisting of 92 small brick and stone houses, each differently designed by a separate architect or builder. A successful example of social housing, the homes were initially financed through a lend-lease agreement for families of middle and lower income workers. Going up the steps from Place Octave-Chanute, you come to the streets Irenée-Blanc and Jules-Siegfried; in spring, each tiny garden is filled with lilac and wisteria, and it's hard to believe that you're still within Paris city limits. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sype |
Oasis of tranquility |
Esplanade Charles-De-Gaulle Boulevard Sarrail Montpellier 34000 |
This wide promenade extends from the Place de la Comédie up to the rose-coloured Corum building. Trees and fountains welcome those seeking to escape the summer heat or bustle of the city centre. The far end of the esplanade looks out across the northern district of the city and the stairs leading up to the roof of the Corum offer an even wider panorama. On the west side of the esplanade is the Musée Fabre while to the east is the museum's pavillion and the Champ de Mars gardens - within this space are several contemporary statues (notably Baldini's Le Vent) as well as classical ones. The mini-train and horse-drawn carriages also use the esplanade as their point of departure for tours of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian Spranger |
Garden with childrens' play area in the Croix-Rousse district |
Cours du Général Giraud Lyon 69001 |
This garden is a little island of greenery, on the edge of the Croix-Rousse area, just a few metres from the church of Saint Bruno. It is one of the nicest walks starts at passage Gonin leading up from quai Saint Vincent by the Rhône. It crosses the slopes of Croix-Rousse where you will undoubtedly see the many cats living around there. The passage leads to the garden's entrance near a playground. From the garden, there is a splendid view of the Fourvière hills and the banks of the Saône. Of course, at night, the view is even more beautiful when the city is all lit up. This garden is also the venue for music and cinema festivals where music from all over the world is played on Th evenings usually and films are shown in the open air free-of-charge on Sunday nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M. Roland-Gosselin |
Popular park in the heart of the city |
Montée du Chateau Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6300 +33 (0)4 9392 8282 (Tourist Information) |
Situated on the hill between the old town and the harbour, this park is a big favourite with locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by a typically Mediterranean backdrop of pine trees, carobs, figs and aloes, the park's impressive waterfall, children's play area, breathtaking views over the city, medieval ruins and Maritime Museum are all part of its appeal. Get here on foot, by car or take the lift from Rue des Ponchettes at the foot of Bellanda Tower. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tuula Toivio |
A historic estate engulfed by the city |
1744, avenue Albert-Einstein (Le Millénaire) Montpellier 34000 +33 467 65 5172 |
This historic building is located 3 kilometres east of the city centre. Once a country house, this family property now finds itself and its surrounding parks and vineyards entirely swallowed by the city. The château, which dates from the 17th century and its collection of 17th and 18th century furnishings and art (including a large collection of optical instruments) can be visited in summer. Outside the house one can admire the gardens à la française as well as the château's own vineyards (Coteaux de la Méjanelle) whose wines can be tasted and bought on site. Call for seasonal opening times. Admission: EUR3.05-EUR 5.79. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Brooks |
Maupassant, Baudelaire, Jean Seberg... |
3 Boulevard Edgar Quinet Paris 75014 +33 (0)1 4410 8650 |
The Montparnasse cemetery stretches over 18 hectares and houses the tombs of several famous French people. Situated on the land of former farms, the site was chosen by Napoleon and the cemetery was created in 1824 (after Père-Lachaise and Montmartre). It is divided up by straight walkways, two of which demarcate the Grand and the Petit cimetière. People laid to rest here include Alfred Dreyfus (of the Dreyfus Affair), the author Guy de Maupassant, Jean Seberg (the actress who starred in A Bout de Souffle among others), the poet Baudelaire, the literary couple Sartre and de Beauvoir, Samuel Beckett and Serge Gainsbourg. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob van Berlo |
 Photo: Victor Da Mota |
 Photo: J. M. Kezman |
 Photo: davinca |
 Photo: Emeline Ancel |
 Photo: Simona Dell'Aquila |
 Photo: Stéphane FELUT-PARIS |
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Gardens, amphitheatres & museums on this historical hill |
Avenue du Monastère de Cimiez Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6000 |
The parkland extends over the hill of the chic residential Cimiez district, presenting a different scene at every turn. It features a little olive grove, Roman amphitheatres and a monastery garden, which together make up a stroller's paradise. The olive grove and amphitheatres provide the perfect setting for hosting the annual Nice Jazz Festival and folk fairs. The archaeological museum is also worth visiting, especially in view of the fact that Cimiez, formerly Cemenelum, was the heart of Nice in antiquity. Admission is free, except for special events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carrie Anna |
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Hidden treasure |
Centre Bourse, square Belsunce Marseilles 13001 +33 491 90 4222 |
Excavation work in 1967, in preparation for the construction of the Centre Bourse, revealed a site of great archaeological interest. It consisted of remains of the ramparts of the ancient Greek city, as well as parts of the ancient Roman port and its soft water basin which was used to refuel ships. This port, which is the oldest on the Mediterranean, contributed greatly to Marseilles' role as a great metropolis of Antiquity, as well as the most influential city in France. Surrounded by a garden, the remains are now adjacent to the Centre Bourse. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tyler Niccum |
Islands in the Bay of Cannes |
Alps Riviera Provence Cannes, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06400 |
Several companies offer a wide choice of sail boats and boat trips to these beautiful and relatively wild islands. Less than half an hour's boat trip away, the smaller of the two islands, Saint-Honorat, has an active monastery, a museum and an abbey. While the larger, Sainte-Marguerite island's claim to fame is its old fort, where the legendary Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. Also worth a look while visiting this pleasant car-free sanctuary is the Musée de la Mer, which is home to an impressive collection of archaeological treasures including amphoras and other relics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Riccardo Bussandri |
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Rest and recreation |
Avenue Jean-Jaur?s Paris 75019 +33 1 4003 7547 |
This immense site, spread over three kilometres, is first and foremost a park to play and relax for children and parents alike. With its wooded islands, its canal across the lawns, transparent escalators and skate parks, this place is very popular on sunny Sundays. In this green universe, there is no limit to your imagination: Dragon Gardens, acrobatics, dunes, fog gardens, etc. If you linger for awhile in the Bamboo Garden you will be able to listen to the wind blowing in the trees and imagine you are in the deepest of jungles! Opposite the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, there is the Géode and its multi-faceted mirrors give the park an impression of infinity. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pam_Moua |
 Photo: Laurent Berder |
 Photo: Simona Zireddu |
 Photo: Giuseppe Sollazzo |
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Park in the west of Lyon |
Route de Sain-Bel Tassin-La Demi Lune 69260 |
Lacroix Laval park belongs to the castle which was rebuilt in the 17th century. In the early 18th century the new owner had the gardens landscaped in a typical French style: austere well-planned lines. Most of the garden has been preserved so you can see the lawns, central pond where two alleys cross, the vegetable garden and the greenhouse which looks like the one in the Tête d'Or Park. The only part that has disappeared is the orchard. The castle and this park are situated inside another 119 hectare park with lawns, ponds and a forest where the locals come to jog and stroll. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: DiogeneLaerce |
A walk on the wild side |
50 avenue d'Agropolis Montpellier 34090 +33 499 614 543 http://zoo.montpellier.fr/ |
These 80 hectares contain over 100 different indigenous and exotic species. No tiny or concrete cages are to be seen and the spacious enclosures and vegetation allows the animals some privacy. A little patience is amply rewarded by the possibility of seeing zebra, antelope, camels and even cheetah in a habitat of woodland and scrub. With 9 kilometres of paths to explore and several picnic sites, the zoo allows a relaxing yet active and educational visit. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: andrestephane187 |
One of Paris' favourite parks |
Boulevard Saint-Michel Paris 75006 +33 1 42 34 20 00 |
The ground on which the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Palais du Luxembourg stand was originally the site of a Roman camp. In 1257 the Chartreux religious order bought the land and built a monastery here and later princess regent Marie de Médicis had the palace built in 1615. This is one of Paris' favourite gardens. Sensitively and very prettily laid out, it is wonderfully popular with students and residents in Paris' Latin Quarter. Children can go on pony rides, play on swings and sail their toy boats on the octagonal pond. A much-loved and popular meeting place. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lush Landscape in Historic Setting |
15 Rue de Vaugirard Paris, Île-de-France 75006 +33 1 4234 2000 |
A visit to the Luxembourg Palace (completed in 1627) provides a feast for the eyes, highlighting both history and exquisite art in a natural setting. To begin with there are paintings by Rubens and fine works by Delacroix. Historically the area is interesting because during the French Revolution it was a prison and today it is home to the national Senate. Luxembourg Palace Gardens is really an extensive park filled with all types of flowers, plants, shrubs immaculately landscaped to create an Edenesque environment. The setting is perfect for a fun day out and depending on the weather you can rent a small boat on one of the ponds. Or simply, as a visitor, you can enjoy all of the historic statuary recalling France of past eras. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Smiles |
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 Photo: Leslee_atFlickr |
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Sea life centre |
306 Avenue Mozart Antibes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6600 +33 4 9333 4949 http://www.marineland.fr/ |
The only one of its kind in Europe, this centre just 25km from Nice, is home to an impressive array of marine life. Walk along the glass tunnel through the shark pool and watch different species circling menacingly overhead. Enjoy the magic of choreographed routines performed by killer whales and dolphins, marvel at strange jellyfish or even stroke the stingrays. Another of the centre's attractions is its reconstruction of an atoll, complete with flora and fauna, crustaceans and corals. There's also a restaurant, children's play area and souvenir shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ghisdav. |
 Photo: sukiyo |
Hillside forest - superb for scenery & strolling |
Boulevard du Mont-Boron Route forestière et chemin des Hespèrides Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côted'Azur 6300 +33 (0)4 9392 8282 (Tourist Information) |
Mont Boron is one of the many hills bordering the city. Stretching out above the port, this forest is one of the favourite walking spots for families in Nice. Dating from 1860 and entirely hand-planted, this forest features vegetation native to the Mediterranean, such as the Aleppo pine and the Holm oak. When you reach the heights, stop a while to take in the beautiful panorama over Nice and the bay. With 11km of signposted footpaths, it is the perfect place for hill walking or mountain biking and enjoying the fresh air. Don't miss the nearby fort on Mont Alban - a magnificent example of 16th-century military architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Laurand |
Creatures of the Sea |
293 Avenue Daumesnil Paris, Île-de-France 75012 +33 1 4474 8480 / +33 1 4474 8501 http://www.palais-portedoree.org |
If you're fond of sea animals, then stop by at The Palais Porte Doree Public Aquarium. Though not as impressive as other aquatic parks, it still is worth a visit. Visited by both tourists as well as school children, the museum is home to a whole lot of aquatic animals. You'll find tank after tank of sea creatures - Colossoma pacu, Cichlids, Cardinal Tetra and lots more. The building is also used as a venue for several exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Ying |
 Photo: Christophe GILLES DE PELICHY |
A noble park |
58 Boulevard de Courcelles Paris 75008 +33 (0)8 3668 3112 (Tourist Information) |
The story of this park with flowerbeds, protective trees and white statues of artists started in 1769, the year the Duke of Chartres acquired a hectare of the Monceau plain (where the famous patriot Joan of Arc camped in 1429). A dozen hectares were added between 1773 and 1778; this ground was transformed into an English style garden and became the setting for many revolutionary festivals. In 1860 it was bequeathed to the city of Paris and was converted into a public park by the préfet Hausmann. It was opened a year later by the emperor Napoleon III. To the original pyramid he added a bridge, a cave and a waterfall. The statues date from the turn of the 20th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Catherine Waage |
 Photo: Julien Pauthier |
 Photo: Jean-Francis MARTIN |
 Photo: Edouard Chazal |
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 Photo: Ceila Lee |
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One of the newly born in Paris |
Rue des Couronnes rue Piat Paris 75020 |
Recently designed (1988), this park is a favourite amongst the locals. In spring, the flowering shrubs are an olfactory miracle. Its terraced layout offers an exceptional view of the city (including the Eiffel Tower) whilst out for a jog. In summer, children take over the modern fountains and improvise all sorts of games. Sports lovers enjoy working out a sweat on the basketball and football pitches whilst the lawns invite you to relaxation. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: polluxe75 |
 Photo: Irène Gernet |
 Photo: Patrice PONTIE |
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 Photo: Stéphan Coquelet |
A panoramic walkway |
1 La Promenade de Peyrou Montpellier 34000 |
This long, raised promontory extends out from the city centre towards the Arceaux district. From this high point the view extends from the Mediterranean to Pic St Loup and beyond towards the gorges of the Herault to the north of the city. A historic site from where the canons of Louis XIII bombarded the city during the siege of 1622, the Peyrou was also a place of execution during the revolution : the guillotine replacing the statue of Louis XIV. Today the site is much calmer and enhanced by continually changing flower beds and majestic magnolias. A perfect spot for a summer stroll beneath the shade of the many trees while admiring the swooping flight of martins. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jan de Wal |
 Photo: Anne |
Cemetery to the stars |
16 Rue du Repos Paris 75020 +33 (0)1 43 70 7033 http://gargl.net/lachaise// lachaise@gargl.net |
Paris's most famous cemetery gets the name from Louis XIV's religious advisor, who previously owned the property. In 1804, the city decided to turn the land into a cemetery. Famous people buried here include authors Marcel Proust, Oscar Wilde and Honoré de Balzac, and singers Edith Piaf and Jim Morrison (whose grave is one of the most visited). Among the many 19th-century sculptures and monuments is the Mur des Fédérés, which was placed in memory of the 147 rebels shot here on May 28, 1871, during the Paris Commune. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christelle Sire |
 Photo: James Idiart |
 Photo: Robin Tolbert |
 Photo: Michael Hughes |
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 Photo: Nadia Lahens |
 Photo: Papa le Pew et sa petite Famille |
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A little Africa in the Languedoc |
RN 9 Sigean 11130 +33 468 48 2020 |
An hour and a half drive from Montpellier is enough to experience a real safari. This extensive wildlife park by the Etang de Bages, 15 km south of Narbonne, is home to several thousand species of animal. All the major species of the African plains are here, including the rare White Rhinocerous, as well as many other species from across the world. The different parts of the park are accessible either on car or on foot, allowing you to explore at your leisure the different habitats ranging from the savannah to the shores of the lagoons. Spend the whole day to truly get the most out of it. Admission: adults EUR16.77, children (4-14 years old) EUR12.20. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michele Beltrame |
 Photo: Redmaaan |
 Photo: J.C. Hortala |
 Photo: Xavier Bayod Farré |
 Photo: lepeedeverite |
 Photo: Benoît J. Schecter |
 Photo: Fabian Beck |
Safari park near Paris |
Route de Versailles Thoiry 78770 +33 1 3487 5225 http://www.thoiry.net/ |
Just 40km from Paris, this zoo has become one of Europe's best-known and most original attractions. Drive round its popular safari park (remaining inside the car at all times for safety reasons) and get amazingly close to big cats, bears and zebras. Other sections of the zoo are ideal for exploring on foot, giving you the chance to meet hippopotami, giraffes and monkeys, while the zoo's tiger tunnel rarely fails to impress! The castle situated at the heart of the park is worth visiting for its magnificent 18th-century furniture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: luisabelharuco |
 Photo: dinornis |
Watch out for the rollerbladers! |
Avenue de New-York Paris 75016 +33 1 4742 9056 (Ministry of Tourism) |
Spread over a total of ten hectares, the Trocadero gardens stretch from the Palais de Chaillot to the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. A pond surrounded by an array of stone and gilded bronze statues and fountains forms a delightful centrepiece. Rollerblade enthusiasts meet here to practice in the midst of this harmony, weaving their way past surprised onlookers and lovers clasped in a warm embrace. Although this is a pleasant place, the rollerbladers' presence tends to spoil the gardens' tranquillity, making them a lot less peaceful than the Tuileries gardens, for example. However the view you get from here of the Eiffel Tower (especially at night, when it's lit up) and over the Palais de Chaillot more than makes up for this, giving these gardens their own special charm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luisa Gandolfo |
Between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde |
Rue de Rivoli Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 4020 9043 http://www.v1.paris.fr/en/visi... |
Situated right in the heart of Paris, the Jardin des Tuileries stretches from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde. Commissioned by Queen Catherine de Médicis and created in 1564 at the same time as the Palace of the same name (which was later destroyed), it was redesigned in 1664 by architect André le Nôtre, who was responsible for the layout of its paths, its symmetrical flowerbeds and its terrace overlooking the Seine. As delightful as ever, the garden is perfect for strolling and relaxing in (there are even donkey rides!). From 21st June until 25th August every year the garden plays host to a fun fair whose big wheel gives visitors a fabulous view over Rue de Rivoli. The garden is also home to the Orangerie and the Galerie nationale du Jeu de Paume. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: crookedspiral |
 Photo: Emily Mitchell |
 Photo: erevu |
 Photo: Stew Ellington |
 Photo: Max Griffith |
 Photo: Nigel |
 Photo: Tiquetonne2067 |
 Photo: Guillaume Carels |
 Photo: Luc Delaborde |
 Photo: Vergentino Robles |
105-hectare Park |
Boulevard des Belges Lyon 69006 +33 4 7889 0203 http://www.parc-tete-dor.com/l... |
Legend has it that this park is named for the golden head of Christ that is hidden somewhere on site. Unbelievable? Well, so is this park that covers more than 105 hectares and has a zoo, a 5-hectare rose garden and enormous greenhouses filled with exotic species—not to mention a mysterious island! This park is considered to be the "lung" of Lyon and is so popular that sometimes during weekends, joggers, families with push chairs and cyclists have trouble finding enough space. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ken_from_Amherst_NH |
 Photo: Ryan Moffitt |
 Photo: Chatelot Philippe |
 Photo: Nguyen Huyen Minh |
 Photo: camslecams |
 Photo: Hugo Pouillard |
 Photo: Yulia Akimenko |
 Photo: Lucas |
 Photo: Pascal LEJEUNE |
 Photo: francoiseger |
 Photo: rockcityclash |
 Photo: Jorijn Smit |
 Photo: LauDeLyon |
 Photo: Susan Gardner |
 Photo: alba - canillo andor |
A zoo with over a thousand animals |
Boulevard des Belges Lyon 69006 +33 4 7282 3500 |
This zoological garden in the middle of the Parc de la Tête d'Or on the corner of boulevard des Belges and avenue Verguin is a real home for over 1100 animals. Next to the deer park, visitors of all ages can see wild animals from all over the world, such as elephants and giraffes and in the spring you may be lucky enough to get a glimpse of their babies. A little patience and a stroll in the park will probably reward you with a sighting of a grey heron by the lake, a squirrel on a bench or even a rather bad-tempered Florida turtle (which some people unfortunately drop in the lake!). Free admission Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dr Ade Warburton |
 Photo: amelielamiraux |
 Photo: Anna.Clara.Soares |
 Photo: Emiliano Ricci |
 Photo: anod1 |
 Photo: Alexander Baych |
 Photo: K r i s s |
 Photo: Pierre Guezennec |
 Photo: Feodel |
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