The Parc André Citroën, a refreshing break in the heart of Paris

Compared with the Tuileries or the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Parc André-Citroën is characterized by its modernity. This is hardly surprising, given that it was inaugurated in 1992 in the 15th arrondissement of Paris. Although not necessarily distinguished by its historical aspect, this garden is exceptional in many other respects.

First, a little botany. There are two large greenhouses, one tropical and the other Mediterranean, which you can visit. If you wander around to the north of the park, you'll discover different landscapes through its serial gardens. There are seven in all: the black garden, the blue garden, the green garden, the orange garden, the red garden, the silver garden and the gold garden. Each corresponds to a metal, a color, a planet, a meaning and a day of the week. A bit like an astrological portrait.

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There's also an artificial island on which a bamboo grove has been planted. You can also admire the Parc André-Citroën viaduct from one of its many lawns. And if you feel like reaching for the clouds, you'll find the world's largest balloon here.

A hot-air balloon in the heart of Paris
How about a breathtaking and unusual view of the capital? Why not climb aboard a hot-air balloon in the heart of Paris? Head for the Parc André-Citroën, where a giant balloon invites you to take to the skies. [Read more]

This kind of captive hot-air balloon, known as the Ballon Generali or Ballon Air de Paris, will allow you, weather permitting, to soar to a height of 150 meters and enjoy a 360° view of the capital. What's more, it can accommodate up to 30 passengers. But that's not its only special feature, as the balloon is also an indicator of air quality and pollution levels, as it is illuminated in a different color according to these two criteria.

So, are you ready to take a stroll through this thousand-faceted park?