André Citroën Park, inaugurated in 1992 on the site of former Citroën factories, is a 14‑ha modern urban garden on the left bank of the Seine. Designed by architects Jean‑Paul Viguier, Patrick Berger, and landscape designers Gilles Clément and Alain Provost, it is the only Parisian park directly open onto the river, featuring a gentle slope and a viaduct to integrate it seamlessly into the cityscape.

The park is structured into three main zones: a vast central lawn for picnics and relaxation, flanked by two named gardens—Caroline Aigle (white garden) and Eugénie‑Malika Djendi (black garden)—honoring two remarkable French female soldiers.

Along its edges are seven small “serial gardens” (black, blue, green, orange, red, silver, golden), each symbolizing a metal, planet, weekday, and sense—an immersive sensory journey.

Highlights include two monumental greenhouses—one for Mediterranean flora, the other tropical exotics—creating a lush, climate‑controlled oasis. Play areas include zip‑lines, slides, ping‑pong tables, and spring toys, plus a larger zone for teens—all integrated thoughtfully into the landscape. In summer, water jets and cascades spring from the ground, offering refreshing moments.

The star attraction is the Generali tethered helium balloon by Aerophile, which rises to 150 m, offering breathtaking views of Paris up to 20 km out. It operates daily from 9 am until 30 minutes before park closing, carries up to 30 passengers, and offers 10–12 minute flights. Tickets range from €15 to €20, free for children under 3, with discounts for kids and people with disabilities; helium is recycled each winter.

Historically, the site began as a small river port producing Eau de Javel, then became Citroën’s munitions and auto factory in 1915, before evolving into a green urban landmark between 1986 and 1992.

The park is open year‑round: in winter from 7:30 am to 8 pm, in summer until 9:30 pm or later during heat waves. Served by Metro line 10 (Javel‑André Citroën), RER C, Tram T3a, and buses, with nearby Vélib station. Admission is free, public restrooms are available, and the site is wheelchair‑friendly (manually operated chairs).

The park attracts families, couples, joggers, nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility in the city. It also hosts events, exhibitions, and air‑quality awareness initiatives via the balloon’s sensors.

Practical tips: no reservation needed—exchange tickets on‑site; balloon flights may be canceled in high winds or poor weather; dress warmly for altitude. Guided tours by city garden authorities are available; temporary installations occasionally alter garden layouts.