The park houses a reintroduction center for white storks, a species that was nearly extinct in the Alsace region in the 1970s.
The Pavillon Joséphine was built in 1804 to house orange trees gifted to Empress Joséphine, the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte.
The park's lake is fed by a network of artificial streams and features a small waterfall and a picturesque wooden bridge.
It is strategically located directly opposite the Council of Europe and near the European Parliament buildings.
A statue of Charles de Gaulle stands within the park, reflecting its significance in local political history.
Parc de l'Orangerie is the largest and oldest park in Strasbourg, spanning 26 hectares in the European district. It features an English-style landscape garden, a large central lake, and the Pavillon Joséphine, a historical structure dating back to the early 19th century. The park serves as a conservation site for the European stork, the symbolic bird of Alsace, with a dedicated reintroduction center located on the premises. Recreational facilities include a children's play area, a bowling green, and multiple dining establishments. Wide gravel paths provide accessibility throughout the grounds, which are maintained by the city of Strasbourg. The park's layout was significantly redesigned by landscape architect André Le Nôtre's influence in the 17th century, though it was later transformed into the current romantic landscape style. Visitors can access the site freely throughout the year, with the greenery providing a buffer between the surrounding administrative buildings and the city center.
The wooden bridge overlooking the central lake with the Pavillon Joséphine in the background.
Visit the stork observation area early in the day to see the birds at their most active.
Use the designated walking paths to explore the various botanical sections, as some lawn areas have seasonal access restrictions.
Bring a picnic to enjoy near the lake, as it is the most popular area for locals.
Feeding the geese and birds, which is strictly prohibited to maintain the park's ecological balance.
The park remains open year-round, though specific garden sections may be cordoned off for maintenance during the winter months.
Maintain silence near the bird conservation area and keep dogs on a leash at all times.
