Les Jardins de Paris: Parc de la Bagatelle

The Parc de la Bagatelle is probably Paris' loveliest park, known for its flower and thematic gardens. A water lily pond pays homage to French painter Monet, and a chateau and orangerie feature Chopin concerts in the summer. The rose garden is the park's most visited spot with 10,000 roses of 1,200 different varieties blooming in June.

Les Jardins de Paris: Parc de la Villette

Parc de la Villette is certainly Paris' most interesting garden attraction. The park features a series of themed gardens, such as an exotic bamboo garden or one displaying stream and water jets. There are playgrounds scattered about among other attractions.

If you've been to the Cité des Sciences et l’Industrie museum, Parc de la Villette is a must-see.

Les Jardins de Paris: Parc de Belleville

Located on a hill with stunning views of the western part of the city (including the la Tour d'Eiffel), Parc de Belleville features rock formations and grottos left over from when the hill was a strategic point for fighting Attila the Hun. There's also a museum, fountains, a play area and open-air theater for concerts in the summer.

Les Jardins de Paris: Parc Monceau

Parc Monceau, in the upscale 8th arrondissement, is different from other Parisian parks because of its "English style". Unlike the formal lines characteristic of the French park, Parc Monceau features winding paths and randomly placed statues.

It was also one of Marcel Proust's favorite haunts. Here, he strolled among bridges, waterfalls, a windmill, medieval ruins and Paris' largest tree, an Oriental plane.