Monceau Park (Parc Monceau)

The Basics

With its royal pedigree and tony setting, Parc Monceau is as chic today as it was centuries ago. Established by the Duke of Chartres (King Louis XVI’s cousin), the park has an informal, English-style design that differentiates it from most of Paris’ other green spaces.

Ringed by elegant townhouses and featuring a water lily–studded pond, the park is best known for its many follies: small-scale architectural features that range from a pyramid and classical colonnade to a bridge inspired by Venice’s Rialto Bridge. It also contains a number of statues commemorating French cultural heavyweights, from Frédéric Chopin to Guy de Maupassant.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the garden.

• Parc Monceau hosts an on-site playground for visitors with younger children.

• The park is free for all to visit.

• Parc Monceau has a ground-level entrance that makes it accessible to wheelchair-users, though its bathrooms are not accessible.

How to Get There

Located in the vicinity of the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées, Parc Monceau offers a chance to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. To get there, take Métro line 2 to the Monceau station, which is located right along the park’s northern edge. Alternatively, use bus line 30, 84, or 94. The park can also be reached on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.

When to Get There

Parc Monceau is open daily. During the winter months it is open from 7am to 8pm; in the summer, it’s open from 7am to 10pm. There’s no bad time to visit, though the park is at its busiest on warm, summer days.

Nearby Highlights

Parc Monceau is surrounded by a clutch of small, charming museums, including the Musée Cernuschi (dedicated to Asian arts) and the Musée Nissim de Camondo (showcasing 18th-century decorative arts). It is also ringed by several embassies.

Ways to explore

With its royal pedigree and well-heeled setting, Monceau Park is as chic today as it was centuries ago. While it’s tempting just to relax with a good book, don’t miss the chance to scout out its most notable features. Take photos at its water-lily-studded pond, explore its architectural follies, and look out for statues commemorating artists who helped shape French culture, from composer Frédéric Chopin to author Guy de Maupassant.

In addition to independent sightseeing, Monceau Park can also be explored as part of a guided tour, including architecture-themed walking tours.

Accessibility

The park has level access and paved paths, although some areas may be steep or have uneven ground, and there are no accessible bathrooms.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, camera, umbrella

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate layers, as well as comfortable walking shoes with good grip.

Not allowed

Unleashed dogs, biking apart from designated areas

Amenities

Food vendors, proximity to public transportation, bathrooms

Address

Monceau Park is located in western Paris’ 8th arrondissement, not far from popular tourist destinations such as the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe. It is well-served by public transportation, as well as taxis and rideshare services.

Driving

Look for parking at the Indigo Villiers parking garage, located at 14 Avenue de Villiers. However, due to congestion and limited or expensive parking, driving in central Paris is not recommended. If you can, take a taxi or rideshare instead.

Public transportation

To get to Monceau Park, take the Paris Métro—either line 2 to Monceau station or line 3 to Malesherbes. Alternatively, use the local bus; the 20, 30, 84, and 93 buses will take you there.

Best times to visit

Monceau Park is open daily from morning until evening, with later opening hours during the summer months. Visit on a good-weather day to take advantage of its many attractions.

Best days to visit

As a general rule, Monceau Park and its surrounding attractions are likely to be busier on weekends than on weekdays.

Best months to visit

While summer brings good weather and festive events, it also ushers in crowds and soaring temperatures. Visit during the spring and fall shoulder seasons instead.

Special events

Head to Monceau Park in June, when it takes part in the annual Gardens Festival (Fête des Jardins) event.