There’s nothing quite like the joy for Parisians of heading out with a baguette, fresh bread, red-and-white checkered tablecloths, and drinks in hand, settling comfortably on the city’s lush lawns as the first sunshine of the day warms the air. But the real challenge is finding that perfect spot—a cozy place to gather with family, loved ones, or friends that isn’t overrun with visitors at all hours! Fortunately, we’re here to help and share our favorite picnic spots to enjoy all summer long in Paris!
The Jardin de l'Arsenal follows the course of the water. It features a mix of shaded areas, pergolas, and sunny spots. Connecting the Canal Saint-Martin to the Seine, it runs between Quai de la Rapée and the Place de la Bastille. Once a bustling freight port, it has been transformed into a pleasure craft harbor since 1983. Today, it forms part of the Parisian canal network and marks the boundary between the 4th and 12th arrondissements. Quickly filling up with Parisians at the first hint of sunshine, it's best to hurry if you want to claim a spot on the grass.
The Rives de Seine park is a treasure trove of spots for those wanting to spread out their picnic. Here, explore the Niki-de-Saint-Phalle Archipelago Gardens, covering 1,800 square meters. These floating gardens are situated along the River Seine, between the Invalides bridge and the Alma bridge. The site features five floating islands where visitors can play, soak up the sun, and enjoy a picnic from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Situated on the edge of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter, the Luxembourg Garden covers a sprawling 25 hectares. The park is divided into a formal French-style garden and a more relaxed English landscape section. Between these areas lies a geometric woodland and a large pond. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic right in the heart of the city.
Designed by André Le Nôtre, this green space is a quintessential example of French elegance, featuring symmetrical gravel paths and neatly trimmed rows of trees. For comfort, it’s perfect for outdoor dining, with expansive lawns offering stunning views of the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.
On the southern edge of Paris, Parc Montsouris, renowned for its rich fauna and flora, invites you to enjoy a peaceful picnic on its vast lawns or by the pond, shaded by graceful weeping willows. Just a short walk away, the university city park is a secluded 30-hectare escape where relaxation comes naturally. This true urban oasis offers a world tour through its international pavilions: the United States, Italy, Morocco, Japan…
The Parc André-Citroën sprawls across the 15th arrondissement of Paris. This lush green space offers a refreshing escape amid diverse landscapes, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Unlike the Tuileries or the Luxembourg Gardens, the André-Citroën Park stands out for its modern design. No surprise there—it opened in 1992, right in the heart of the 15th. While it may not boast the historic charm of other Parisian parks, this green oasis offers its own unique appeal. Spacious lawns invite visitors to enjoy a picnic with a view of the iconic Air Paris hot air balloon rising in the distance.
Just outside Paris and easily accessible by tram and metro, the Domaine de Saint-Cloud Park offers a vast expanse of greenery. It is the largest leafy park in the Hauts-de-Seine department, spanning nearly 500 hectares of forests and gardens. For a picnic on the grass, the Saint-Cloud Estate provides a royal yet rustic setting, with tall grasses and breathtaking viewpoints designed by Le Nôtre. And for an aperitif, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the stunning view of the Eiffel Tower from the Terrasse de la Lanterne.
The Parc de Sceaux, just a short distance from the capital, invites visitors to enjoy 180 hectares of greenery—perfect for a regal picnic. Its stunning gardens designed by Le Nôtre and the château worth exploring make it a must-visit. The park provides beautiful open spaces within a truly charming setting.
Enjoy a wonderful picnic!
Prices
Free
