On Sundays, many Parisians pack their basket and gather for a picnic under the open sky. Whether you enjoy the lush greenery of Paris's grand gardens or prefer a riverside view with the Seine as your backdrop, the city offers countless picturesque spots for a perfect Sunday picnic. Here are the best places for a memorable picnic experience in Paris
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Paris in the 19th arrondissement, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a delightful escape from the city's more tourist-filled parks. Its dramatic cliffs, suspension bridge, and winding pathways offer plenty of hidden spots to spread a picnic blanket. As one of the most hilly parks in Paris, it provides stunning views from every angle, especially from the Temple de la Sibylle, a mini temple perched on a cliff.
For those seeking a quiet spot to unwind with friends or family, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy your baguettes and charcuterie surrounded by lush greenery and scenic vistas.
Jardin du Luxembourg: A Classic Parisian Experience
In the heart of Paris, Jardin du Luxembourg offers a timeless setting for a leisurely Sunday picnic. This park is one of the city's most iconic and charming green spaces, commissioned by Queen Marie de Medici in the early 17th century. Its formal gardens, tree-lined promenades, and grand Medici Fountain provide an air of sophistication, making it a perfect choice for those looking to pair their picnic with a bit of Parisian history and elegance.
Picnic-goers can relax near the central pond, where children sail their miniature boats or find a quiet corner under the shade of chestnut trees. The park's famous green chairs offer a comfortable place to sit, so you can indulge in cheese, fruit, and pastries without needing a blanket. The picturesque surroundings, punctuated by statues and flowers, make Jardin du Luxembourg a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful yet refined picnic experience.
Bois de Boulogne: A Day-Long Escape
Just beyond the bustling heart of Paris, Bois de Boulogne offers an expansive, nature-filled escape perfect for a full day of picnicking and exploration. Located on the city's western edge, this vast park is popular among locals for its serene lakes, dense forests, and wide-open spaces. Originally a royal hunting ground, it is one of Paris's largest and most inviting public parks.
Bois de Boulogne is perfect for large group picnics or family outings. You can set up near Lac Inférieur, rent rowboats, or enjoy the peaceful waterside atmosphere. The nearby Jardin d'Acclimatation offers a range of activities for children, including rides and gardens.
Parc Monceau: Elegant and Picturesque
Known for its English-style garden design, this park features winding paths, romantic bridges, classical statues, and a lovely central pond surrounded by trees. It's less structured than the formal French gardens and has a more relaxed, whimsical atmosphere that feels like stepping into a pastoral painting.
Parc Monceau is an excellent spot for a peaceful, intimate picnic. Plenty of shaded spots are under the willow trees or near the decorative Roman-style colonnade. Families will enjoy the park's open spaces, and children can play on the carousel or explore the small playgrounds.
Parc de la Villette: Modern and Dynamic
For a picnic with a modern, cultural twist, head to Parc de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement. Known for its contemporary architecture, art installations, and wide-open lawns, this park is a lively and dynamic space ideal for friends and families looking for more than just food. With its expansive areas, it's easy to find a spot to spread out and enjoy your picnic, and the constant flow of cultural events adds a vibrant backdrop to your day.
Parc de la Villette is also home to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie and the Philharmonie de Paris, making it an excellent destination for those who want to combine their picnic with a cultural outing.
Champs de Mars: Picnic with a View
Few places in Paris can rival the iconic beauty of a picnic on the Champs de Mars, with the Eiffel Tower towering above. This sprawling green space stretches from the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire, providing an unmatched view of one of the world's most famous landmarks. While it's a popular spot for tourists and locals, there's still something special about laying out your picnic blanket with a view of the Iron Lady.
Champs de Mars is perfect for creating a memorable picnic experience, whether for a romantic date or a fun afternoon with friends. Arrive early to grab a prime spot and enjoy a leisurely meal of fresh baguettes, cheese, charcuterie, and wine while taking in the Eiffel Tower's majesty. As the sun sets and the tower lights up, your Sunday picnic will become an unforgettable evening in Paris.
Jardin des Tuileries: The Art of Outdoor Dining
This elegant garden, designed by André Le Nôtre, features perfectly symmetrical paths, grand fountains, and classic sculptures. It's a serene spot for a refined picnic, especially for those who appreciate a touch of Parisian art and culture.
To enjoy your picnic in the heart of the city, find a place near one of the grand fountains or tuck into a quieter area of the park. The proximity to the Louvre makes combining your picnic with a cultural visit easy, allowing you to explore the museum's vast collection after your meal. Jardin des Tuileries is ideal for those looking to enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by art and history.
Picnicking Along the Seine: A Riverside Retreat
For an authentic Parisian experience, there's nothing quite like picnicking along the banks of the Seine. The river, which winds through the city's heart, offers countless picturesque spots to enjoy a meal while watching the boats drift by and admiring the city's most famous landmarks.
Quai de la Tournelle
On the Left Bank, near Île Saint-Louis, Quai de la Tournelle is one of the most charming places to enjoy a riverside picnic. With views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic Île Saint-Louis, it's a peaceful spot that offers a quintessential Parisian picnic experience. The grassy banks provide plenty of space to set up your spread, and the nearby cafés and markets make stocking up on picnic essentials easy.
Square du Vert-Galant
For a more intimate riverside setting, head to Square du Vert-Galant, located at the western tip of Île de la Cité. This small park feels like an island oasis, surrounded by the Seine on all sides. It's a popular spot for locals seeking a quiet retreat from the city, and the views of the Seine's bridges and passing boats make it a picture-perfect picnic destination.
Port de Solférino
Just steps away from the Musée d'Orsay, Port de Solférino is a scenic spot along the Seine's banks where you can enjoy your picnic with views of the Louvre and the river's gentle currents. The surrounding area is less crowded than some more tourist-heavy sections, making it a great place to relax and savour your meal.
Port de l'Arsenal
For those looking for a hidden gem, Port de l'Arsenal, located near Place de la Bastille, offers a charming riverside garden along the Canal Saint-Martin. With flower beds, benches, and a marina filled with boats, it's a tranquil spot for a peaceful Sunday picnic away from the more frequented areas of the city.
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