In Paris’s 19th arrondissement, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont turns a former quarry into a hilly park of lawns, paths, a lake, waterfalls and caves. Its rocky island rises above the water, crowned by the Temple de la Sibylle, with views towards Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur. Take the winding paths to explore the park’s changing scenery, or find a grassy slope for a picnic. Play areas and broad walking routes make it a good choice for families, though the steep paths call for comfortable shoes.
A park shaped from a quarry
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont opened in 1867, during the reign of Napoleon III. The site had been used for gypsum and limestone quarrying, and Jean-Charles Alphand, the landscape architect responsible for the design, reshaped the steep ground into a public park. Its hills, rocky faces and winding routes preserve a sense of the old terrain while bringing together lawns, trees and water.
The park covers about 25 hectares in northeastern Paris. Rather than a flat garden with straight paths, it has slopes and changes in elevation. The routes pass through wooded areas and open onto lawns, with different views across the park and towards the city. Allow extra effort for the uphill sections, particularly if you plan to explore beyond the lake.
The island, lake and Temple de la Sibylle
The park’s central lake surrounds Île de la Belvédère, a rocky island topped by the Temple de la Sibylle. The small temple draws on the design of the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli in Italy. From the island’s high point, views take in the park and Paris rooftops, including Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur.
Bridges connect the island with the rest of the grounds. One is a suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel. The lake and its rocky setting form the park’s most distinctive landscape, but there are other details to find as you walk: caves, a grotto and an artificial waterfall. Some paths run close to the water; others climb the slopes for different outlooks.
Paths, lawns and family visits
The park’s open grassy areas suit picnics, while shaded routes offer a cooler walk on warm days. Families can use the play areas, and the park also has walking paths, picnic tables and public toilets. Dogs are allowed, and there are routes for walking and exercise. The changing ground makes the park less suitable for anyone seeking a completely flat stroll; choose your route with the climbs in mind.
For a less crowded visit, choose a weekday or arrive early. If you want to picnic, bring food with you and settle on a lawn with a view. The park is open daily from 7 am to 9 pm, according to the listed hours. It is in the 19th arrondissement, with Buttes Chaumont, Botzaris and Laumière metro stations nearby.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Parc des Buttes-Chaumont?
The park is in Paris’s 19th arrondissement. Nearby metro stations include Buttes Chaumont, Botzaris and Laumière.
What can you see at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont?
The park has a lake, rocky island, the Temple de la Sibylle, caves, a grotto, an artificial waterfall and a suspension bridge. Its elevated paths offer views towards Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur.
Is Parc des Buttes-Chaumont suitable for children?
Yes. It has play areas and family-friendly walking routes. The ground is hilly, so expect some steep sections.
When is a good time to visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont?
Weekdays and early mornings are suggested for a quieter visit.
