Paris is often called the City of Light, known worldwide for its stunning architecture, art museums, and romantic ambiance. But beyond the bustling streets and famous landmarks, Paris offers an abundance of beautiful green spaces perfect for a relaxing picnic. Whether you’re a local Parisian or a visitor, enjoying a picnic in one of Paris’s scenic parks or along its calm waterways is a quintessential experience that captures the city’s charm and joie de vivre.
This guide explores the best picnic spots in Paris, highlighting what makes each location special, practical tips for your visit, and how to make the most of your outdoor dining experience.
1. Champ de Mars
Perhaps the most famous picnic spot in Paris, the Champ de Mars is a vast, open lawn stretching from the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire. This spacious park offers breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Iron Lady herself—making it the ultimate backdrop for your picnic.
Why Choose Champ de Mars?
The wide lawns provide plenty of space for groups of all sizes to spread out blankets and enjoy fresh French baguettes, cheeses, and pastries under the open sky. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with street performers, families, and couples all soaking in the scenery.
Tips for Visiting:
- Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure a good spot, as the park can get crowded.
- Bring a bottle of wine or sparkling water to toast with the sunset over the tower.
- Nearby bakeries and markets in the 7th arrondissement offer delicious picnic supplies.
2. Jardin des Tuileries
Located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries is a historic French garden designed with symmetrical paths, manicured flower beds, ornamental fountains, and classical sculptures.
Why Picnic Here?
Its central location and stunning landscape make it a favorite for a leisurely lunch or afternoon snack. You can find plenty of benches or grassy patches to enjoy your meal amidst art and nature. After your picnic, a stroll through the gardens or a visit to the nearby Louvre completes the experience.
Tips for Visiting:
- Pick up fresh produce and baked goods from Rue Saint-Honoré or the open-air market at Marché Saint-Germain.
- Consider bringing a light picnic as food and drinks are sometimes limited in the garden’s immediate surroundings.
3. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Nestled in the 19th arrondissement, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is one of Paris’s more rugged and less touristy parks. Unlike the formal gardens downtown, it features cliffs, a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and a temple perched atop a rocky hill.
Why Picnic Here?
Its varied terrain creates a sense of adventure and discovery. Whether you relax by the lake or hike up to the Temple de la Sibylle for panoramic views, this park offers a quieter, more intimate picnic experience.
Tips for Visiting:
- Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the hills and trails.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch near the waterfall or under the shade of chestnut trees.
4. Parc Monceau
Located near the Champs-Élysées, Parc Monceau is a charming, small park known for its English-style landscaping, elegant statues, and colorful flower beds.
Why Picnic Here?
It’s a refined, peaceful spot favored by locals, perfect for a relaxed meal away from the busy city streets. The park’s quiet paths and cozy corners provide an ideal setting for a romantic picnic or a serene break.
Tips for Visiting:
- Visit in spring or summer when flowers are in full bloom for the best scenery.
- Grab some cheese and fresh baguettes from nearby Rue de Courcelles.
5. Canal Saint-Martin
For a more modern and trendy picnic experience, the banks of Canal Saint-Martin offer a laid-back atmosphere with quaint iron bridges, tree-lined walkways, and reflections shimmering on the water’s surface.
Why Picnic Here?
This spot attracts young Parisians and creatives who gather on the canal’s stone edges to enjoy snacks, drinks, and lively conversation. Nearby cafés, bakeries, and food shops make it easy to assemble a delicious picnic.
Tips for Visiting:
- Bring a blanket to sit on the canal’s stone steps for a cozy spot.
- Evening picnics are popular here, especially during warm months when the neighborhood buzzes with energy.
6. Parc de la Villette
Parc de la Villette is one of Paris’s largest parks, located in the northeast. It combines green lawns with modern architecture, playgrounds, open-air cinemas, and cultural venues such as the Cité des Sciences.
Why Picnic Here?
Ideal for families or groups seeking more than just a picnic, the park offers a variety of activities and events. You can enjoy a meal on the expansive lawns and then explore the interactive science museum or catch a free concert.
Tips for Visiting:
- Check the park’s event calendar for festivals, markets, or outdoor performances.
- Plenty of shaded areas are available to escape the midday sun.
7. Jardin du Luxembourg
The Luxembourg Gardens, near the Latin Quarter, are among Paris’s most famous green spaces. The park boasts beautiful flowerbeds, statues, fountains, and a large pond where children sail miniature boats.
Why Picnic Here?
Its elegant setting and lively atmosphere attract locals and visitors alike. After your picnic, you can stroll through the gardens, visit the vintage puppet theater, or relax on one of the many green chairs spread throughout the park.
Tips for Visiting:
- Arrive early to claim a spot on the lawns or benches.
- Avoid glass bottles, as they are prohibited, but plastic or cans are fine.
What to Pack for Your Paris Picnic
To enjoy an authentic Parisian picnic, bring some of these essentials:
- Fresh baguettes: The backbone of any French picnic, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- Cheese: Brie, Camembert, Comté, or goat cheese – choose your favorite.
- Charcuterie: Thin slices of ham, saucisson, or pâté for savory bites.
- Fresh fruit: Grapes, apples, or strawberries are perfect and easy to eat.
- Pastries and sweets: Croissants, éclairs, or macarons make a perfect finish.
- Beverages: Sparkling water, juice, or a small bottle of French wine (check local park rules).
- Utensils and napkins: For convenience and cleanliness.
- A picnic blanket: Essential for comfort on the grass.
Final Thoughts
Picnicking in Paris is more than just eating outdoors—it’s a way to slow down, savor simple pleasures, and connect with the city’s rhythms. Whether you choose a bustling park with famous views or a quiet corner by a canal, each picnic spot offers a unique taste of Parisian life.
So next time you’re in Paris, pack your picnic basket, find a spot under a shady tree or beside a flowing fountain, and enjoy one of the city’s most beloved traditions.
