This isn't a place that I would ordinarily find myself as an overseas visitor to France but,…read morewithout a doubt, I'm glad that my routing took me here--just wish that I didn't have a suitcase in tow. See, I was on my way from Grenoble to Charles de Gaulle to fly out. I arrived at the bus station in the early morning and had some time to kill before I needed to get on the metro. The park, with its abundant seating areas and no lack of greenery, made for a great place to spend the time--much better than a Brioche Doree or Starbucks. Parc de Bercy is sizable, with enough features to ensure it would be fresh on multiple visits, though I only directly experienced a few of them. Plus, it wasn't too busy in the morning--good for catching a break while traveling but not great for people-watching.

If you've ever dreamt of having a proper rosé-fromage-baguette picnic in a lovely French park…read moresetting, Bercy is your dream come true. It's like 3 different parks in one, so be sure to stroll the entire span of it before picking your spot. There's a family-friendly area with a carousel and big oak trees. Next, a botanical garden with hidden patches of greenery to pitch your blanket on. And lastly (my favorite) a large shady area with a rivers, ponds, fountains lots of youngins napping peacefully (ok, they were all making out) and enjoying the good life on a Saturday afternoon. It feels like a great getaway from the speedy Parisian pace.

From the owner: Piste aux rollers Dans un espace de 6000 m² à 15 minutes du centre de Paris, le Rollerparc Avenue…read moreest l'un des plus grands parc couvert d'Europe. Les pistes sont ouvertes aux rollers débutants et confirmés (enfants à partir de 4 ans et adultes). On y trouve une piste d'initiation, une piste de hockey, une piste de bosses, une aire de street junior, une aire de street géante, un complexe de bols, canyons, mini moyennes et grande rampes. La location de rollers peut se faire sur place et des cours sont proposés par des professeurs.Accès en voiture par l'A86, sortie n°24 Vitry sur Seine.

From the owner: Roulez jeunesse Ancien Roller Station, Vertical Line propose à deux pas du Trocadéro, une ligne de…read moreroller très agressive. Les amateurs y trouveront certainement leur bohneur. Les petits problèmes de montage ou de réparation pourront également être résolus. Pour les courageux, Vertical Line organise des balades les vendredis et samedis.

One of the reasons we chose the hotel for our April visit to Paris was the proximity to Le Jardin…read moredu Luxembourg -- the Luxembourg Garden. This is one of my favorite places in Paris. Besides the layout and beauty of the Garden itself, it is a wonderful way to experience the softer side of Paris. Despite April overcast and rainy weather, walking through the Park was uplifting as always. Tulips greeted us when we entered through the Gay-Lussac entrance. Once in the Park, we found more flowers and trees in bloom. Beyond Les Voiliers du Luxembourg -- an octagonal fountain for sail boats at the focal center if the Gaeden -- we walked through a canopy formed by rows of chestnut trees. It was great staying within a few blocks of Le Jardin du Luxembourg and visiting daily.

Quality/Quantity - Huge and good size garden. Many locals here eat (and drink) their lunch…read more Family friendly. The landscaping here is amazing. Well, most of Paris's gardens! I am so impressed I used to do my own landscaping so I know how much work it takes to make gardens look like this! Several small snack kiosks; see my pictures. Ambiance - 25 hectare, beautifully landscaped. There is a French and English part, I did not know and sadly probably would not be able to tell the difference. Rose garden, statues, etc. Kid friendly - A merry go round, slides, play areas, etc. Restaurant, snack kiosks, etc. Service - Self service. Price - The garden is free. I think you have to pay to go into the building. Owner Comment - Congrats on all your success since 1612.