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Park · Estrasburgo, Grande Leste
Parc de l'Orangerie
Estrasburgo's largest park, covering 26 hectares, with a lake and waterfall, the Pavillon Joséphine and an enclosure for storks, opposite the quarter of the European institutions.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parc de l'Orangerie
The Parc de l'Orangerie is Estrasburgo's best-known park, with 26 hectares opposite the Palais de l'Europe in the European quarter. The name comes from orange trees confiscated during the French Revolution and housed in the Pavillon Joséphine, built in 1804 and named in honour of Empress Joséphine, wife of Napoleon.
The park grew during the German period, for the 1895 industrial exhibition, when the artificial lake and waterfall were added. Today it is a local spot: people running, families with children, rowboats on the lake in warm weather and picnics on the lawns.
The storks, a symbol of Alsace, nest in the trees and in an enclosure in the park, and are often seen up close, especially from spring to summer (March to August), the breeding season. There is also a small zoo with farm animals.
The park is in the Neustadt quarter, the part of the city built during the German period, and pairs well with a visit to the Parlamento Europeu across the avenue.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours for a leisurely walk.
Best time
From spring through late summer (March to August), when the storks are in their nests and the trees are leafy. On a sunny day, late afternoon is when locals turn up the most.
How to get there
It's about 2.5 km from the centre. By tram, get off at Droits de l'Homme or Parlement Européen; buses coming from Place de la République also stop nearby.
Tip
It's a good break after visiting the Parlamento Europeu. Bring something to eat and relax on the lawns: the surrounding area is residential and has fewer options than the centre.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parc de l'Orangerie
Can you see storks in the Parc de l'Orangerie?
Yes, the storks nest in the park and are usually seen up close, especially from March to August.
Is there an entrance fee for the park?
No, there is no charge. The park is public and open every day.
Is the park near the Parlamento Europeu?
Yes, on the other side of the avenue. You can do both in the same morning or afternoon.