Created in 1775 around the château known as the “Folie d’Artois,” built in 64 days as part of a bet between Marie‑Antoinette and the Comte d’Artois, Parc de Bagatelle has become one of Paris’s botanical jewels. Spread over 25 ha and now part of the City of Paris Botanical Garden, it offers a succession of enchanting settings: English-style gardens, historic follies (pagoda, kiosk, artificial grottoes, waterfalls, bridges), an orchard-garden, and the famous rose garden.

The Rose Garden, inaugurated in 1907 under the guidance of Jean‑Claude‑Nicolas Forestier and enriched by collector Jules Gravereaux, houses about 10 000 rose bushes of 1 200 varieties, many award winners at the annual international competition. Every June, workshops, exhibitions, and activities (grafting initiation, floral art, public voting) celebrate the queen of flowers.

The park is known for its free-roaming peacocks, often found near iris and perennial flower beds, lending a magical ambiance. The Pagoda, rebuilt in 1996 to replace the original 1867 structure, adds to the English-Chinese romantic character of the setting.

Visitors can enjoy contemplative walks, picnics, botanical photography, or relax at “Les Jardins de Bagatelle” restaurant terrace or the waterfall-side refreshment stand. In summer, the park hosts classical music concerts, exhibitions, and family-friendly events.

The atmosphere is calm, welcoming both locals and tourists – families, seniors, botany enthusiasts, young couples, students – all seeking an urban oasis. Shaded paths, hidden benches, water features and winding trails suit everyone, from those seeking quiet reflection to photography lovers.

Practical info:

Opening hours: 9:30 am–5 pm (Nov–Feb); 9:30 am–6:30 pm (Mar); 9:30 am–8 pm (Apr–Sept).

Access: metro 1 (Pont de Neuilly) + bus 43/244 or tram T2 + short walk.

Admission: €2.60 full / €1.50 reduced (Apr–Sept); free (Oct–Mar, children under 7, students, disabled…).

Wheelchair accessible with assistance. No pets. Playground, water fountains, restrooms available.