Parc de Bercy

The basics

Established as part of a city-wide beautification project during the mid ’90s, Parc de Bercy has three distinctly-themed gardens within its confines. With huge shady trees, you can often find sunbathers on warm days lounging on the grass and next to the water features in the Grande Prairie. For a more traditional garden setting—complete with an orchard, vineyard, and vegetable and flower beds—walk through Les Parterres section. For a more romantic meander check out Jardin Romantique’s lily pond and public art installations.

Paris’ largest cultural and sporting venue, Bercy Arena, is at the northwest side of the park, as is Bercy Village, a quaint shopping area built in the remnants of Bercy wine cellars.

Things to know before you go

• The park is free and open to the public every day, but can close unexpectedly due to inclement weather.
• Most pathways are wheelchair-accessible.
• Public restrooms are available throughout the park.

How to get there

Reach the park on either Metro line 6 or 14 before taking the Bercy station stop, or take line 14 to Core Saint-Émilion. You can also get to the park on bus line 24 or 87.

When to get there

The park is open every day, and though the shops, boutiques, and restaurants in Bercy Village vary in hours, they’re generally open daily. To experience the super blooms that happen every year in gardens around Paris, consider planning your trip to Parc de Bercy during May.

Explore the Jardin des Plantes

For more leisurely garden strolls check Jardin des Plantes in the Latin Quarter of Paris. This garden is hidden in plain sight. Inside the garden is a lush oasis full of different botanical gardens which include tropical plants, rose gardens, and blossoming cherry trees. You can also visit multiple museums within the garden walls including the botanical, natural history, and evolution museums.

Ways to explore

The park features three different gardens, each with their own appeal: the Jardin Romantique, a tranquil spot with ponds, wildlife, and scenic views from a raised platform; the Jardin Yitzhak Rabin, home to a lively community garden, orchard, rose garden, and maze; and Les Prairies, the largest section, which invites visitors to relax on wide lawns, shaded by trees, or admire the sculptural Canyoneaustrate fountain.

There’s also a covered skatepark and two buildings, Maison du Jardinage and Maison du Lac, which serve as venues for gardening workshops and educational events. While the park isn’t frequented by sightseeing tours, a few bike and Segway tours pass by.

Accessibility

The park is largely wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen, picnic blanket, a good book

What to wear

Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

Not allowed

Smoking. Unlike many Parisian parks, you are allowed to sit on the grass and bring your dog.

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, signposted maps

Address

Parc de Bercy is located in Paris’ 12th arrondissement.

Driving

From central Paris, take the Boulevard Périphérique and exit at Quai de Bercy. Paid parking is available at nearby parking lots.

Public transportation

On the metro, take line 14 to Cour Saint-Émilion station or line 6 to Bercy station—both are less than a 10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

The park is most peaceful in the morning.

Best days to visit

If you’re looking to relax, you’ll find weekdays are quietest.

Best months to visit

Go in May or June to see the gardens in bloom.

Special events

Festivals and special events: The Maison du Jardinage hosts workshops, lectures, and events throughout the year.