Parc de La Villette & Cite des Sciences
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Parc de la Villette - by Thierrry Aka on Google
Description
The Parc de la Vilette is the city's largest park (55ha) and houses several cultural venues including the City of Science and Industry, the Géode (an IMAX theatre recognizable by its 36m ball-like geodesic dome), the Conservatoire de Paris and other major concert venues such as the Zénith and Paris Philarmonie (designed by Jean Nouvel). The parc itself is divided by the Canal de l'Ourcq which has boat tours (including to other parts of Paris) and comprises 10 themed gardens including the "Jardin du Dragon" and "Jardin du Bambou". The City of Science and Industry ("CSI") is Europe's largest science museum with over 5m visitors per year. Attractions include a planetarium, the Géode (mentioned above) and a submarine (l'Argonaute) and both permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Access & Transport
"The parc and CSI have their dedicated métro station made Porte de la Vilette (7), on the northern side. Alternatively, Porte de Pantin (5) station provide access from the southern side. By road, the ring road exit is "Porte de la Vilette" and entrance to the paying parking is at 61 Bd Macdonald. It is also possible to arrive by boat from either the Bastille area (Port de l'Arsenal) or from the Orsay museum.
Instructions & Recommendations
A visit of both the parc and the CSI should take at least 3h, probably more. From there, it is a natural walk along the Bassin de la Villette and then along the Canal Saint Martin or to the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
Environmental & Social
No ESG / CSR data available. We deem this activity to be slightly negative from an environmental perspective (energy required to operate the CSI). Educational aspects + green environment for residents.
Conclusion
The Parc de la Villette is certainly enjoyable but quite off the way and lacks that special charm that can be found in other parks in the city center or the variety and woods that can be found in either Bois de Boulogne or Bois de Vincennes. The City of Science forms a good combo but needs a real upgrade in content, delivery and service quality. In conclusion, we view this as a good option for repeat visitors to the city and residents of Greater Paris.
Key positive
Very large park with good connection to Canal Saint Martin and several culture venues
Both the CSI and the parc are good family activities
Key negative
CSI content needs to be updated and include more English translations
Not always clean and can feel unsafe at times
Traffic and parking issues when major temporary exhibitions take place
Suitability
Suitable for all ages Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 40m
est. visit time:3h 30m
Monday -
Tuesday09:30 - 18:00
Wednesday09:30 - 18:00
Thursday09:30 - 18:00
Friday09:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:30 - 18:00
Sunday09:30 - 19:00