The most beautiful secret gardens and squares in Paris and the Ile-de-France region, a must-see!

Published by La Rédac · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Published on April 22, 2024 at 10:56 a.m.
Parks, squares and gardens attract Parisians in search of a breath of fresh air or a desire to go green. Discover the little-known spots, the pretty green spaces in Paris, which are still secret or hidden, the ideal corners for a quiet stroll.

The sun is shining where it's mild in Paris and the Ile-de-France region, and you're looking for a true haven of peace to enjoy these fine days? While Parisians and tourists alike flock to the capital's best-known parks and gardens - such as the Tuileries, the Luxembourg Gardens, the Palais Royal and the Place des Vosges - there are still some little-known green spaces and secret gardens where you can enjoy a bucolic break, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris.

Hidden behind buildings or lush vegetation, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, these little-known spots have everything you could wish for. You'll be able to read quietly without being disturbed in the middle of your novel, picnic in the shade of century-old trees, or simply recharge your batteries by doing nothing, just basking in the sun with your toes in the air. You're not dreaming, all this is possible, even in the middle of the city!

So, would you like to discover these little-known squares, parks and gardens in Paris? Follow the guide!

Paris's secret squares and little-known gardens :

La Maison de BalzacLa Maison de BalzacLa Maison de BalzacLa Maison de Balzac The Maison de Balzac, home of the famous writer, and its secret garden overlooking the Eiffel Tower
The Maison de Balzac, one of the famous writer's homes, is one of the capital's literary gems, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. This house-museum also boasts an incredible garden overlooking the Eiffel Tower, as well as a café. [Read more]

Circulation(s), le festival de la jeune photographie européenne au Centquatre - 9EBB5C96 2C91 4D9D 91B9 52E1CC225827Circulation(s), le festival de la jeune photographie européenne au Centquatre - 9EBB5C96 2C91 4D9D 91B9 52E1CC225827Circulation(s), le festival de la jeune photographie européenne au Centquatre - 9EBB5C96 2C91 4D9D 91B9 52E1CC225827Circulation(s), le festival de la jeune photographie européenne au Centquatre - 9EBB5C96 2C91 4D9D 91B9 52E1CC225827 Did you know? One of Paris's most secret gardens is hidden in the 19th arrondissement.
In the heart of the 19th arrondissement, it's a well-kept secret, but one that we invite you to discover every day during the summer months. Le Centquatre's secret garden is a discreet little island, hidden from view, where you can take refuge all summer long. [Read more]

Square BaryeSquare BaryeSquare BaryeSquare Barye Olympics 2024: which square did Lady Gaga sing from at the opening ceremony?
On Friday, July 26, she surprised everyone - spectators and viewers alike - when she appeared in a beautiful black dress, surrounded by pink pompoms. But where was the singer? Is the venue open to the public? [Read more]

Square Gabriel Pierné à Paris - cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0345Square Gabriel Pierné à Paris - cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0345Square Gabriel Pierné à Paris - cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0345Square Gabriel Pierné à Paris - cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0345 Gabriel Pierné Square and its sublime cherry blossoms
In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Square Gabriel Pierné is the place to be in spring. In April, cherry blossom lights up this buccolic spot where you can relax. This little corner of paradise, hidden behind the Institut de France, becomes the scene of a fascinating ephemeral nature, a must-see. [Read more]

La Coulée verte, la promenade insolite de la Bastille à VincennesLa Coulée verte, la promenade insolite de la Bastille à VincennesLa Coulée verte, la promenade insolite de la Bastille à VincennesLa Coulée verte, la promenade insolite de la Bastille à Vincennes La Coulée Verte de Paris, the unusual and hidden walk from Bastille to Vincennes
Paris's Coulée Verte René-Dumont, formerly known as the Promenade Plantée, is a beautiful, little-known walk for Parisians, taking us on a verdant journey from the Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes over the Viaduc des Arts. It's an unusual and shady way to discover Paris, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. [Read more]

Les jardins des Archives, un écrin de verdure au cœur de ParisLes jardins des Archives, un écrin de verdure au cœur de ParisLes jardins des Archives, un écrin de verdure au cœur de ParisLes jardins des Archives, un écrin de verdure au cœur de Paris The gardens of the Archives Nationales, a hidden gem in Paris
In the heart of the Marais district, there's an enchanted garden that Parisians often pass by in ignorance. And yet, once you discover the gardens of the Archives Nationales and their 8,000 m2 of greenery, you wonder how you could have missed it! [Read more]

Le Jardin Alpin caché du Jardin des PlantesLe Jardin Alpin caché du Jardin des PlantesLe Jardin Alpin caché du Jardin des PlantesLe Jardin Alpin caché du Jardin des Plantes The Jardin des Plantes' hidden Alpine garden, a nugget worth discovering
The Jardin des Plantes conceals a magnificent alpine garden. Located between the Grandes Serres and the Menagerie, this garden, which has no entrance doors, is accessible via a hidden underground passage. Here you can discover the rock gardens and wild mountain plants. It's a haven of peace to be (re)discovered all year round. [Read more]

Parc de la butte du chapeau rouge - image00772Parc de la butte du chapeau rouge - image00772Parc de la butte du chapeau rouge - image00772Parc de la butte du chapeau rouge - image00772 Parc de la Butte-du-Chapeau-Rouge: a little-known green spot in the 19th arrondissement
Looking for an undiscovered spot to relax on the grass? Not far from the famous Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, a verdant garden awaits you in the 19th arrondissement. Parc de la Butte-du-Chapeau-Rouge. [Read more]

’Institut national des jeunes aveugles’Institut national des jeunes aveugles’Institut national des jeunes aveugles’Institut national des jeunes aveugles The hidden garden of the Institut national des jeunes aveugles
In September, a new spot of freshness and greenery will open its doors to the public near the Duroc metro station. The well-hidden garden of the Institut national des jeunes aveugles will welcome you at weekends and during the vacations! [Read more]

Photos : Square Saint-Gilles Grand-Veneur Pauline-RolandPhotos : Square Saint-Gilles Grand-Veneur Pauline-RolandPhotos : Square Saint-Gilles Grand-Veneur Pauline-RolandPhotos : Square Saint-Gilles Grand-Veneur Pauline-Roland Square Saint-Gilles Grand Veneur, the charming and hidden rose garden of Paris
Looking for a hidden, confidential garden, where it's nice to sit and admire the rose garden and read a book? We invite you to discover the Saint-Gilles Grand-Veneur Pauline-Roland square, a secret square with a certain charm. [Read more]

Le Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, un spot secret à deux pas de l'Hôtel de VilleLe Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, un spot secret à deux pas de l'Hôtel de VilleLe Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, un spot secret à deux pas de l'Hôtel de VilleLe Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, un spot secret à deux pas de l'Hôtel de Ville The Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, a secret spot a stone's throw from the Hôtel de Ville
Did you know? Just a stone's throw from the Hôtel de Ville, near the quays of the Seine, lies a green setting that few Parisians know about. This is the Jardin des combattants de la Nueve, a secret spot that's just waiting to be discovered. [Read more]

Le jardin médiéval du Musée de Cluny, un lieu hors du temps à ParisLe jardin médiéval du Musée de Cluny, un lieu hors du temps à ParisLe jardin médiéval du Musée de Cluny, un lieu hors du temps à ParisLe jardin médiéval du Musée de Cluny, un lieu hors du temps à Paris The medieval garden of the Musée de Cluny, a timeless place in Paris
Want to travel back in time? Let's discover a charming park in Paris's Latin Quarter. This is the Medieval Garden of the Musée de Cluny. [Read more]

Jardin Catherine Labouré et le Jardin du PotagerJardin Catherine Labouré et le Jardin du PotagerJardin Catherine Labouré et le Jardin du PotagerJardin Catherine Labouré et le Jardin du Potager The Catherine Labouré Garden and the Potager Garden
Among the capital's hidden parks and gardens is the Jardin Catherine Labouré, adjacent to the Jardin du Potager in Paris's 7th arrondissement. Discover 7,000 m2 of family-friendly green space, featuring fruit trees and green lawns. [Read more]

Le Jardin Lazare-Rachline à ParisLe Jardin Lazare-Rachline à ParisLe Jardin Lazare-Rachline à ParisLe Jardin Lazare-Rachline à Paris Jardin Lazare Rachline, a secret flowery location in Paris
Paris Jardin Lazare Rachline is a location that earns to be known! Nestled in the Marais, this lovely green setting unveils a French formal garden very little known by Parisians. [Read more]

Le Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sens, un écrin de verdure à la françaiseLe Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sens, un écrin de verdure à la françaiseLe Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sens, un écrin de verdure à la françaiseLe Jardin de l'Hôtel de Sens, un écrin de verdure à la française Jardin de l’Hôtel de Sens, a French formal garden in Paris
In Paris fourth arrondissement, not far from the Seine riverbanks and the Pont Marie lays a magnificent French formal garden where you can have a lovely break. Here is the Jardin de l’Hôtel de Sens. [Read more]

Le Jardin des Rosiers - Joseph Migneret à ParisLe Jardin des Rosiers - Joseph Migneret à ParisLe Jardin des Rosiers - Joseph Migneret à ParisLe Jardin des Rosiers - Joseph Migneret à Paris Jardin des Rosiers, a secret location in the Marais
In the Marais, the famous rue des Rosiers attracts foodies and shopping addicts to make the most of stores and there is a warm atmosphere all along the street. But do you know there is also a little-known garden? Here is the Jardin des Rosiers – Joseph Migneret. [Read more]

Le Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, une promenade méconnue à ParisLe Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, une promenade méconnue à ParisLe Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, une promenade méconnue à ParisLe Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, une promenade méconnue à Paris The Garden of the Great Explorers, a little known walk in Paris
Do you know the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs? This little-known park in Paris, located a stone's throw from the Jardin du Luxembourg, is well worth a visit. Here you will discover a secret stroll in the middle of statues as well as the magnificent Fountain of the Four Parts of the World [Read more]

Le Square Georges Cain, un jardin Musée au cœur de ParisLe Square Georges Cain, un jardin Musée au cœur de ParisLe Square Georges Cain, un jardin Musée au cœur de ParisLe Square Georges Cain, un jardin Musée au cœur de Paris Georges Cain Square, a little-known garden in Paris that looks like an open-air museum
In Paris, the square Georges Cain is a spot like no other. Nestled a stone's throw from the Carnavalet museum, this little-known garden of the capital offers us a beautiful green setting in which we discover the remains of monuments. We tell you more about this square which looks like an open-air museum. [Read more]

Le Jardin naturel Pierre-Emmanuel à Paris où la nature reprend ses droitsLe Jardin naturel Pierre-Emmanuel à Paris où la nature reprend ses droitsLe Jardin naturel Pierre-Emmanuel à Paris où la nature reprend ses droitsLe Jardin naturel Pierre-Emmanuel à Paris où la nature reprend ses droits The Pierre-Emmanuel Natural Garden in Paris, where nature reclaims its rights
In Paris, on the edge of the Père Lachaise cemetery, there's an unusual spot where nature has reclaimed its rights. This is the Pierre-Emmanuel natural garden, a refuge for wild plants from the Île-de-France region, revealing a rich biodiversity. [Read more]

Secret parks and gardens to discover in Ile-de-France

Le Jardin du Yoga à la Roche-Guyon - nos photos - image00012Le Jardin du Yoga à la Roche-Guyon - nos photos - image00012Le Jardin du Yoga à la Roche-Guyon - nos photos - image00012Le Jardin du Yoga à la Roche-Guyon - nos photos - image00012 Le Jardin du Yoga, secret playground at La Roche-Guyon (95)
Hidden away in a little street, indicated by a single small sign, the Jardin du Yoga is one of the least-known parks in La Roche-Guyon, in the Val-d'Oise département. So, we're taking you there to discover it with us! [Read more]

Parc du Dr Fauvel à Villennes sur Seine, grotte et cascades -  A7C1577 HDRParc du Dr Fauvel à Villennes sur Seine, grotte et cascades -  A7C1577 HDRParc du Dr Fauvel à Villennes sur Seine, grotte et cascades -  A7C1577 HDRParc du Dr Fauvel à Villennes sur Seine, grotte et cascades -  A7C1577 HDR Unusual in the Yvelines: the superb waterfall grotto at Parc du Dr Fauvel in Villennes-sur-Seine
Villennes-sur-Seine, a charming commune in the Yvelines department, is home to a little-known treasure: the waterfalls of the Parc Fauvel grotto. Located some 36 kilometers west of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, this small town near Poissy on the left bank of the Seine boasts a park that combines history and nature. The park, an example of English romanticism, features an unusual grotto and waterfalls. [Read more]

Jardin Yili, le jardin chinois caché dans les Yvelines -  A7C2282Jardin Yili, le jardin chinois caché dans les Yvelines -  A7C2282Jardin Yili, le jardin chinois caché dans les Yvelines -  A7C2282Jardin Yili, le jardin chinois caché dans les Yvelines -  A7C2282 Le Jardin Yili, the unusual Chinese garden hidden away in the Yvelines
Jardin Yili is the only privately-owned traditional Chinese garden in France. Head for Saint-Rémy-l'Honoré in the Yvelines, about 33 km from Paris, for a change of scenery. Discover this 10,000 m² green space, imbued with spirituality and tranquility, where you can discover the art of Chinese gardens and immerse yourself in a feng shui setting inspired by age-old traditions. [Read more]

Photos : le Parc des Impressionnistes de Rueil-MalmaisonPhotos : le Parc des Impressionnistes de Rueil-MalmaisonPhotos : le Parc des Impressionnistes de Rueil-MalmaisonPhotos : le Parc des Impressionnistes de Rueil-Malmaison Rueil-Malmaison's superb Parc des Impressionnistes, inspired by Monet
The Parc des Impressionnistes in Rueil-Malmaison, located on the banks of the Seine opposite the Ile des Impressionnistes, is a sublime 1.2-hectare park that honors the color palettes of the Impressionists. Water, plants and flowers in abundance recall Claude Monet's garden at Giverny. [Read more]

La Parc de l'Amitié, le parc japonais de Rueil-MalmaisonLa Parc de l'Amitié, le parc japonais de Rueil-MalmaisonLa Parc de l'Amitié, le parc japonais de Rueil-MalmaisonLa Parc de l'Amitié, le parc japonais de Rueil-Malmaison Parc de l'Amitié, the superb Japanese park in Hauts-de-Seine
Looking for an original park and garden just outside Paris? Head for Rueil-Malmaison in the 92 region to discover the Parc de l'Amitié, an astonishing park full of treasures, including a Japanese garden with its emblematic red bridge and flourishing vegetation. [Read more]

Square Médéric Colombes - jardin japonais 92 -  A7C9962Square Médéric Colombes - jardin japonais 92 -  A7C9962Square Médéric Colombes - jardin japonais 92 -  A7C9962Square Médéric Colombes - jardin japonais 92 -  A7C9962 The magnificent Japanese garden at Square Médéric in Colombes
Square Méréric, a pretty neighborhood park in Colombes, boasts a 3,800 m2 Japanese garden featuring bamboos, maples, pruned trees, azaleas and pagodas. It's the perfect place to get away from it all. [Read more]

Le Jardin japonais du Château de CourancesLe Jardin japonais du Château de CourancesLe Jardin japonais du Château de CourancesLe Jardin japonais du Château de Courances The Japanese garden at Château de Courances: a bucolic and exotic stroll in the Paris region
The Japanese garden at Château de Courances is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens around Paris, and particularly so in France. Located in the fabulous Courances estate in Essonne, this Anglo-Japanese garden delights us with its exotic landscapes. [Read more]

Les jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos  -  A7C8921 HDRLes jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos  -  A7C8921 HDRLes jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos  -  A7C8921 HDRLes jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos  -  A7C8921 HDR The Albert Kahn Museum's superb Japanese garden and other gardens that take us on a journey
The Musée Albert Kahn, which has just reopened its doors, unveils sublime gardens that are a must-see. Conceived as a scenic garden, this 4-hectare space features a magnificent Japanese garden and village, an English garden, a French garden and forests and meadows. A complete change of scenery. [Read more]

Le Parc du Château de Plaisir (78) - photos -  A7C0039Le Parc du Château de Plaisir (78) - photos -  A7C0039Le Parc du Château de Plaisir (78) - photos -  A7C0039Le Parc du Château de Plaisir (78) - photos -  A7C0039 Parc du Château de Plaisir, a green bubble in the heart of Yvelines
On the outskirts of old Plaisir, nestles the Parc du Château de Plaisir and its verdant setting, a veritable corner of nature for strolling, picnicking or playing sport. Classified as a historic monument in 1961, this site has many assets. [Read more]

Parc de Bécon à Courbevoie - Pavillon des Indes - Cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0020Parc de Bécon à Courbevoie - Pavillon des Indes - Cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0020Parc de Bécon à Courbevoie - Pavillon des Indes - Cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0020Parc de Bécon à Courbevoie - Pavillon des Indes - Cerisiers en fleurs -  A7C0020 Parc de Bécon: cherry blossoms, Palais des Indes and history
Discover the Parc de Bécon and its Palais des Indes, a site steeped in history that unveils its beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring. Head for Courbevoie to take advantage of an exceptional green space offering a beautiful view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. [Read more]

Parc de la SapinièreParc de la SapinièreParc de la SapinièreParc de la Sapinière Parc de la Sapinière, an island of greenery in Romainville (93)
In Romainville, just east of Paris, nestles a green space ideal for city walks, jogging or picnicking in the open air in fine weather. [Read more]

Parc et Domaine du Château de CourancesParc et Domaine du Château de CourancesParc et Domaine du Château de CourancesParc et Domaine du Château de Courances The Château and estate of Courances and its superb gardens
The Domaine et Château de Courances, located in the Gâtinais region of Essonne (91), is a wonderful place to discover. Classified as a Historic Monument and Remarkable Garden, this site welcomes you every weekend and public holiday from April to early November. We take you on a tour of this verdant haven of peace. [Read more]

Les Jardins de Sonja au Perray-en-Yvelines -  A7C4938Les Jardins de Sonja au Perray-en-Yvelines -  A7C4938Les Jardins de Sonja au Perray-en-Yvelines -  A7C4938Les Jardins de Sonja au Perray-en-Yvelines -  A7C4938 Discovering Sonja's Gardens: A four-season Eden in Perray-en-Yvelines
Les Jardins de Sonja, a veritable botanical Eden in Le Perray-en-Yvelines, has been delighting garden lovers since 1980. Discover these sublime hidden gardens with their multiple settings, imagined by landscape designer Sonja Gauron. [Read more]

Parc de la Folie Saint-James à Neuilly-sur-Seine -  A7C0068Parc de la Folie Saint-James à Neuilly-sur-Seine -  A7C0068Parc de la Folie Saint-James à Neuilly-sur-Seine -  A7C0068Parc de la Folie Saint-James à Neuilly-sur-Seine -  A7C0068 Parc de la Folie Saint-James in Neuilly-sur-Seine: the unusual park, a jewel of French landscape art
We introduce you to the Parc de la Folie Saint-James in Neuilly-sur-Seine, a French landscaped masterpiece from the XVIIIᵉ century that's well worth a stroll. This picturesque park offers you a plunge into history and the beauty of nature. [Read more]

Le Moulin Jaune en photosLe Moulin Jaune en photosLe Moulin Jaune en photosLe Moulin Jaune en photos The Moulin Jaune and its remarkable gardens
Slava the Clown's Yellow Mill is an incredible place to discover. With its remarkable Alice in Wonderland-style garden, it's a unique spot that's a must-see. Please note, however, that it is only open for special events by prior arrangement. [Read more]

Le Jardin Japonais secret d'AincourtLe Jardin Japonais secret d'AincourtLe Jardin Japonais secret d'AincourtLe Jardin Japonais secret d'Aincourt The secret Japanese garden at Aincourt in the Val d'Oise
Located in the Val d'Oise, the town of Aincourt hides a superb Japanese garden in the Parc de la Bucaille, close to the medical center. Take a closer look at this exotic, well-kept park, where tranquillity and zenitude reign supreme. [Read more]

Le jardin de sculptures de la Dhyus, un lieu insolite en Île-de-FranceLe jardin de sculptures de la Dhyus, un lieu insolite en Île-de-FranceLe jardin de sculptures de la Dhyus, un lieu insolite en Île-de-FranceLe jardin de sculptures de la Dhyus, un lieu insolite en Île-de-France In Chessy, an astonishing walk through the Dhyus sculpture garden
Looking for nature and art? Head off to an undiscovered spot some forty kilometers from Paris, to discover original sculptures scattered across the landscape. [Read more]

Le Jardin Japonais d'Ichikawa à Issy-les-MoulineauxLe Jardin Japonais d'Ichikawa à Issy-les-MoulineauxLe Jardin Japonais d'Ichikawa à Issy-les-MoulineauxLe Jardin Japonais d'Ichikawa à Issy-les-Moulineaux The lovely Ichikawa Japanese Garden in Issy-les-Moulineaux
The Japanese Garden of ishikawa, just outside Paris, is the result of a partnership between the town of Issy-les-Moulineaux and the Japanese town of Ichikawa. They worked together to create the first truly traditional Japanese public garden in France. We're off to discover this Zen garden, ideal for meditation and relaxation. [Read more]

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