The Best Places to Have a Picnic in Paris

One of my best recommendations when you’re visiting Paris for the first time is to have a picnic! I love this activity because it allows you to explore local specialty food shops that you might not usually venture into when you’re only visiting for a few days. It’s also a fun way to slow down and enjoy your surroundings for an afternoon instead of rushing off to the next tour or museum.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, these picnic spots provide the ideal backdrop for a relaxing day outdoors. Here are five of the best places to enjoy a picnic in Paris:

Champ De Mars (Eiffel Tower)

Located at the foot of the iconic Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars is a vast green space stretching from the École Militaire to the Iron Lady herself. This park offers one of the most breathtaking views in all of Paris—the Eiffel Tower. There’s something magical about spreading a blanket on the grass and enjoying a meal with this world-famous monument as your backdrop. There are also musicians occasionally playing live music in this area, making for an even more lovely atmosphere. The park's central location makes it easy to pick up delicious treats from nearby boulangeries and patisseries.

Tuileries Gardens

Located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries Gardens make for a beautiful picnic location. Here, you’ll find manicured lawns, grand fountains, and an array of statues.

Unlike Champ De Mars, the Tuileries gardens offer plenty of benches and chairs, so you can enjoy a more comfortable picnic if you prefer not to sit on the grass. The atmosphere here is peaceful and less touristy as this seems to be a spot where locals like to picnic as well.

Luxembourg Gardens

Located in the 6th arrondissement, the Luxembourg Gardens are a beloved Parisian retreat. The Luxembourg Palace, now home to the French Senate, overlooks the gardens. This is a favorite picnic spot among both locals and tourists. The beautifully maintained gardens, with their vibrant flowers and elegant statues, provide a beautiful, yet peaceful atmosphere. There are plenty of shaded areas, making it easy to find a cool spot on a warm day. 

The gardens also feature an array of amenities, including a playground for children, making it an ideal picnic spot for families. Also, make sure to see the Medici Fountain while you’re here!

Place Des Vosges

Place des Vosges, located in the Marais district, is the oldest planned square in Paris, built in the early 17th century. It offers a unique blend of history and charm. This spot is typically less crowded than other tourist-heavy spots, making it a perfect choice for a more relaxed and private picnic. The nearby streets of the Marais are filled with delightful bakeries, cafés, and delicatessens, perfect for gathering a gourmet picnic spread!

Along the Seine River

The Seine River, winding through the heart of Paris, is lined with picturesque, historic bridges. The riverside offers numerous spots to sit and enjoy the scenic views of Parisian landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower.

You can choose a spot on the grassy banks or find a cozy niche along the stone quays. The proximity to many of Paris’s most famous attractions makes it a convenient and scenic picnic spot. If you’d like a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower while you picnic, you can cross Pont d’Iena walking away from the Eiffel Tower, then go down a set of stairs, and you’ll find a stone area to sit, eat, and enjoy the view!