I spent my first month and a half in Paris exploring the 19th and 20th arrondissement and let me tell you... the parks here will make you swoon.
If you want to get off the usual tourist path, these neighborhoods definitely offer an authentic Parisian experience. Past the bars and boulangeries, two parks (with unbelievable views) can be found: Parc de Belleville and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
Parc de Belleville
I climbed the hill to this park not knowing what to expect. What I found was a mix of urban and countryside intertwined and a view the whole way across Paris. I was definitely not expecting to see the Eiffel Tower on this day but was more than pleasantly surprised.
The top opening to this park is on the edge of multiple charming cafes. If you visit at night, (and are lucky enough to have good weather) you can drink wine among the locals and watch the Eiffel Tower twinkle its lights. During the day you can view the beautiful street art by French artist Julien Malland AKA Seth, and then stroll down the lush hillside.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Of course Paris is known for being romantic but if there were ever a park you'd want to stroll through with a loved one... it's Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Whether you want to go for a run, a walk or simply sit and read a book, this park offers it all. From rolling hillsides to lookout points, to lakes, to breathtaking views... gangs all here. You can completely lose yourself here and forget that just on the other side of the tree line lies a busy metropolis.
In the small stone Temple de la Sibylle, nestled in the middle of the park, you can see all the way across Paris to Sacre Coeur and overlooking the lake below.
Both parks are definitely worth a visit, especially if you are looking to get off the regular tourist path. I loved both and was genuinely surprised at how beautiful they were. That being said, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont has officially stole my heart and I look forward to many more zen filled days spent there. xx
