Parks and gardens in Paris: Andre Citroën

Opened in 1992, the André Citroën Park is one of the newest Parisian green spaces. Situated on the site of a former Citroën automobile factory, this rather futuristic place provides an incredible view over the River Seine. If you are a nature lover, then you will enjoy in many outdoor activities that this park offers - such as walking among exotic trees, visiting magnificent greenhouse pavilions and looking for some rare plants. This park is also a perfect place for families. Your children will adore the Andre Citroën’s playground with Ping-Pong tables, toboggans and even the Balloon Generali. This helium balloon is a fun way to see Paris from the sky. And every year for Easter, this park transforms into a giant egg hunt space.

The André Citroën Park, Paris

Parc André Citroën, 2 Rue Cauchy, 75015 Paris, France

History

André Citroën built its factory in 1915 near the River Seine, in the Parisian 15th district. This factory was initially specialized in the manufacture of ammunition, but at the end of the World War I, Citroën stopped producing shells and reconverted into the car manufacturing. This new business was so successful that the Citroën factory was soon rebuilt on over 55.000 square meters. But in the 1970s, the factory was transferred to Aulnay-Sous-Bois, and in 1982, after the headquarters moved to Neuilly-sur-Seine, the Citroën factory left for good its historical site. At the end of the 1980s, the Parisian authorities decided to demolish a former factory and to make a new park. This new green space was imagined and designed by the landscapers and gardeners Gilles Clément and Alain Provost and the architects Jean-Paul Viguier, Patrick Berger and Jean-Francois Jordy. They designed this park as a place divided into three areas – the big central park area, the Jardin Blanc and the Jardin Noir. The André Citroën Park descends gently towards the River Seine and has the most magnificent trees and plants, two greenhouse pavilions and dancing fountains. 

Balloon

One of the most interesting features of the André Citroën Park is probably the Balloon Generali. This helium balloon, used as a tourist attraction and advertising support, was created and installed in this park in 1999n for the celebration of the new Millennium. This balloon can reach the altitude of more than 150 meters and offers the incredible view of Paris and its most famous monuments. The youngsters just adore this balloon. The good news for parents is that the ticket for children under 12 years is free of charge. 

The Balloon Generali, Paris

Parc André Citroën, 2 Rue Cauchy, 75015 Paris, France

Practical information

The André Citroën Park is open every day from 9 am until 7 pm during the winter, and from 8 am to 9h30 pm during the summer. The Balloon Generali is open every day from 9 am until 30 minutes before the park closing time. But the Balloon can be closed without notice, in case of bad weather conditions. Don’t hesitate to check their website on the day of your visit. The André Citroën Park is also a place where every year for Easter a giant egg hunt for children from 3 to 12 years old is organized.