Parisian Picnics: The Local’s Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Romantic Picnics in Paris: Best Spots, Food & Tips

Imagine soft sunlight, the gentle murmur of Parisian life, and a basket filled with delectable French treats. Few experiences rival the romance and charm of a picnic in Paris. Whether you’re visiting Paris in the Spring or enjoying the warm glow of Summer, planning at least one or two picnics is an absolute must. This comprehensive guide will lead you to the best picnic spots in Paris, suggest what authentic French foods to bring, and even share some easy make-ahead recipes for your culinary adventure. And for those traveling with their furry companions, we’ve marked all the dog-friendly locations so your beloved pup can join the fun!

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Where to Picnic in Paris: 15 Best Picnic Spots

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Planning a picnic in Paris is an exhilarating experience that combines gastronomic delight with breathtaking scenery. The city offers an array of picturesque locations, each with its unique charm. First, decide which Parisian ambiance suits your mood, then grab your authentic French picnic basket and head to one of these amazing Parisian spots!

For an extra touch of luxury, some of the best hotels in Paris, including the renowned Hotel du Louvre, even offer beautifully curated picnic baskets that you can reserve in advance. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hassle-free, elegant outdoor meal.

Palais Royal 🐕 (The Quintessential Parisian Picnic Spot)

A former royal palace nestled in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, the Palais Royal offers a serene and distinctly Parisian setting for your picnic. Despite its central location, the gardens maintain a tranquil atmosphere, making it one of our absolute favorite places for an outdoor meal. You can settle down with your favorite picnic spread on one of the classic green benches, claim a chair around the peaceful fountain, or spread a blanket on the ground. As you dine, you’ll be treated to views of the impeccably manicured gardens and Daniel Buren’s iconic striped columns, which perfectly blend history with modern art. An added bonus for pet owners: the Palais Royal gardens are wonderfully dog-friendly, so your canine companion can join your elegant al fresco experience.

picnic in Paris in the Palais Royal

Address: Palais Royal 75001 Paris

French Picnic Essentials Near the Palais Royal

  • Coffee: Grab a perfectly brewed coffee from Cafe Kitsune, conveniently located right inside the Palais Royal gardens. Their stylish setting and excellent coffee make for a great start to your picnic.
  • Food: For a unique and delicious picnic main, try Japanese Onigiri (rice balls) from Omusubi Gonbei, offering a delightful twist on your traditional French fare.
  • Pastries: Indulge in exquisite Japanese-inspired desserts and pastries at Aki Boulangerie, just a short walk away. Their innovative creations are a perfect sweet ending.

Book your tickets to go up the Eiffel Tower!

Parc Monceau 🐕 (One of Paris’s Most Elegant Picnic Parks)

Parc Monceau holds a special place in our hearts; we often enjoy leisurely walks with our dogs here. This chic and historic garden, located in the 8th arrondissement, is undoubtedly one of the finest places to picnic in Paris. Its unique English garden style, complete with a classical colonnade, a pond with an island, and whimsical follies, creates a sophisticated and tranquil backdrop. Take your time to savor each mouthful of your picnic delights while soaking in the beautiful sights and sounds. What makes it even more special is that it’s one of the few Parisian gardens where dogs are permitted, making it a true heaven for dog lovers like us. Imagine a perfect day: a fresh baguette, a selection of artisanal cheeses, sweet fruits, a bottle of fine wine, and some decadent pastries, all enjoyed while watching elegant Parisians and their adorable pups stroll by. This, without a doubt, is our idea of a perfect day in Paris!

bridge at the Parc Monceau Paris

Address: 35 Boulevard de Courcelles 75008 Paris

French Picnic Essentials Near the Parc Monceau

  • Coffee: For excellent coffee and classic French baked goods, stop by Eric Kayser on Boulevard Malesherbes.
  • Food: Treat yourself to gourmet sandwiches or exquisite savory items from Pierre Hermé, also on Boulevard Malesherbes, renowned for its quality and innovation.
  • Pastries: Eric Kayser not only excels in bread and coffee but also offers a tempting array of pastries and delicious grab-and-go sandwiches, perfect for your picnic.

Related: Best Croissant in Paris (discover where to find the absolute best croissants in Paris – after years of dedicated taste testing!)

Place des Vosges

The Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest planned square, is a magnificent example of 17th-century architecture, surrounded by stunning red-brick buildings with arcades on the ground floor. Its elegant, symmetrical design and verdant central lawn make it an incredibly desirable picnic spot. However, its popularity means it can get quite crowded, especially on sunny days. To fully enjoy your picnic without feeling squeezed, we recommend arriving early for lunch, around 11 am, when the morning quiet still lingers, or opting for a late lunch around 3 pm to avoid the peak crowds. Bring some captivating magazines, a great book, and a selection of classic French picnic items, and you could easily spend a leisurely afternoon absorbing the beauty and history of this iconic square.

Address: Place des Vosges 75004 Paris

French Picnic Essentials Near the Place des Vosges

  • Coffee: Café Hugo offers a convenient takeout coffee counter on the side of the restaurant, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
  • Food: For a savory and satisfying option, consider a turkey pastrami sandwich from La Boutique Jaune on the famous Rue des Rosiers, known for its delicious Jewish deli fare.
  • Pastries: Indulge in classic French treats from Carette Place des Vosges, a renowned tea salon, or cool off with delightful ice cream from Amorino, just across the street.

Book your skip-the-line ticket to visit the Louvre!

Invalides 🐕 (Historic & Spacious Picnic Ground)

When the sun graces Paris with its warmth, Les Invalides transforms into a lively picnic destination where Parisians of all ages gather on its vast green lawns. Located in the distinguished 7th arrondissement, this iconic landmark, home to Napoleon’s tomb, provides a truly grand backdrop for a Parisian picnic. Locals regularly come here with their picnic baskets, and if you visit on a Sunday, you’re likely to witness large family picnics unfolding across the spacious grounds. The wide-open spaces and impressive architecture create a relaxed yet majestic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying an outdoor meal surrounded by history. Its expansive lawns are also dog-friendly, allowing your furry friends to stretch their legs while you relax.

Address: Invalides 75007 Paris

French Picnic Essentials Near Invalides

  • Coffee: For a high-quality coffee experience, head to Coutume Café, a specialty coffee shop where you can get an excellent flat white or other artisanal brews.
  • Food: Alternatively, explore the charming Rue Cler, a renowned market street nearby, where you can pick up fresh fruit, vibrant veggies, crusty bread, and an exquisite selection of cheeses to build your perfect picnic.
  • Pastries: No picnic is complete without a sweet treat! Visit Mori Yoshida, best known for his incredible flan and other delicate French-Japanese pastries.

Champs de Mars (Eiffel Tower Picnic Perfection)

The Champs de Mars always evokes fond memories of my student days at the American University of Paris. It was our go-to spot for an Eiffel Tower picnic, situated right next door to our school buildings. I even recall a memorable Champagne toast underneath the iconic tower during graduation (back when such impromptu celebrations were permitted!). Today, this vast green space remains an unparalleled location for a picnic in Paris. You can still pack your own delightful lunch and enjoy it on the soft grass or seated on one of the garden’s many benches, all with the magnificent Eiffel Tower as your backdrop.

For ultimate convenience, consider ordering a “picnic to go” (or a “panier picnic” in French) from a specialized service! This popular option, often requiring a 48-hour advance order, allows you to pre-order your picnic online and pick it up from a nearby location, such as 22 Avenue de Tourville, just steps from the Champs de Mars. These curated Parisian picnics typically include a bottle of French wine (or Champagne for a special touch), a selection of French cheeses, delicious saucisson (dried French sausage), a fresh French baguette, a market-fresh salad, a seasonal quiche or sandwich, a fruit-based dessert, and bottled still water. Best of all, they often come complete with a blanket, cutlery, glassware, and dishes – making for a perfectly effortless and elegant outdoor dining experience!

picnic in Paris at the Champs de Mars

Address: Avenue Gustave Eiffel 75007 Paris

Visit the Eiffel Tower before or after your picnic!

French Picnic Essentials Near the Champs de Mars

  • Coffee: For a superb coffee experience, head to Coutume Café inside La Grande Epicerie de Paris in Passy, known for its high-quality beans and skilled baristas.
  • Food: Stock up on fresh fruits, vibrant veggies, a variety of French cheeses, and crusty bread from the bustling market street of Rue Cler, a charming spot for gourmet provisions.
  • Pastries: Treat your taste buds to unique Japanese-French fusion pastries from Sadaharu Aoki, where you absolutely must try the exquisite genmaicha Eclair.

Tuileries Gardens 🐕 (Classic French Elegance)

The Tuileries Gardens, perfectly situated between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde, epitomize classic French garden design with their grand avenues, symmetrical layouts, and elegant statues. It’s an ideal spot for a culturally rich picnic, offering stunning views of Parisian landmarks. While the main gardens are generally not dog-friendly, the raised portions along the side offer a designated area where your canine companions are welcome. After your picnic, make sure to visit the nearby Musée de l’Orangerie, one of our favorite small museums in Paris, housing Monet’s magnificent Water Lilies.

statue in the Tuileries Gardens

Address: Tuileries 75001 Paris

French Picnic Essentials Near the Tuileries

  • Coffee: Cross the street to Cafe Kitsune for a stylish and high-quality coffee fix to complement your morning or afternoon picnic.
  • Food: For delicious sandwiches and artisanal bread, visit Bo & Mie (Louvre-Rivoli location), a renowned bakery known for its creative and tasty offerings.
  • Pastries: Indulge in delicate macarons from Pierre Hermé, elegant madeleines or other sweet treats from the luxurious Ritz Paris Le Comptoir, or marvel at the trompe-l’oeil pastries and giant cookies from the celebrated Cédric Grolet. (And don’t forget Bo & Mie also offers amazing sweet treats!)

Learn to make French macarons at GaleriesLafayette during a French macarons pastry class in Paris!

Jardin des Plantes (A Botanical Oasis & Top Parisian Picnic Spot)

The Jardin des Plantes is a true hidden gem in Paris, often overlooked by mainstream tourists, making it a more peaceful and authentic picnic destination. This historic botanical garden, located in the 5th arrondissement, is one of our absolute favorites due to its incredible beauty and diversity, especially vibrant during cherry blossom season in Paris. Pack your picnic basket, find a cozy spot on the lush grass, and once you’ve savored your meal, embark on a leisurely stroll around the garden. Beyond its stunning floral displays, the Jardin des Plantes hosts a fascinating array of scientific institutions, perfect for an enriching afternoon.

These include:

  • Grandes Serres (the magnificent historical greenhouses)
  • La Ménagerie (the historic zoo, one of the oldest in the world)
  • Grande Galerie de l’Évolution (a grand natural history museum)
  • Galerie de Géologie et de Minéralogie
  • Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie comparée
  • Musée de l’Homme (Museum of Mankind)

For those traveling with children, the Jardin des Plantes offers a delightful bonus: the Dodo Manège. This enchanting carousel is one of the world’s most unusual, dedicated to endangered and extinct animals, providing a fun and educational ride that kids (and adults!) will adore.

picnic in Paris at Jardin des Plantes

Address: Jardin des Plantes Paris

French Picnic Essentials Near the Jardin des Plantes

  • For coffee: Visit Nuance Cafe for expertly crafted coffee, a perfect companion for your tranquil picnic morning.
  • Food: Pick up delicious and fresh sandwiches from Le Boulanger du Monge, known for its high-quality ingredients and classic French preparations.
  • Pastries: For a unique sweet experience, head to the Salon de The at La Grande Mosquée, where you can savor exquisite oriental pastries in a beautiful setting.

Jardin du Luxembourg (Regal Charm on the Left Bank)

picnic in Paris in the Luxembourg Gardens

Address: Jardin du Luxembourg 75006 Paris

The Jardin du Luxembourg is an iconic landmark on the Left Bank, exuding a regal elegance that dates back to its creation by Marie de’ Medici. It’s an absolutely stunning garden, offering various picturesque settings for your picnic. Whether you choose to sit in front of the magnificent Médecis Fountain, relax in one of the garden’s iconic green chairs scattered across the lawns, or find a spot near the bustling sailboat pond, you will love munching on your favorite picnic foods while taking in the garden’s timeless beauty and lively atmosphere. It’s a favorite among students, families, and romantics alike.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Jardin du Luxembourg

  • Coffee: Head to Treize au Jardin, a charming and highly-rated cafe known for its delicious coffee and welcoming ambiance.
  • Food: For truly delicious and authentic bread, visit Poilâne, a legendary Parisian bakery famous for its sourdough loaves.
  • Pastries: Treize au Jardin also offers an array of amazing cakes and pastries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a savory picnic.

Schedule a Seine river cruise to experience Paris from the water!

Parc des Buttes Chaumont 🐕 (A Hilly & Unique Escape)

Address: Buttes Chaumont 75019 Paris

Parc des Buttes Chaumont is truly one of the most distinctive and best parks in Paris for a picnic. Its dramatic, hilly landscape, complete with a stunning waterfall, a grotto, and a picturesque temple perched on an island, offers panoramic views of the city – a rare sight in generally flat Paris. This park provides a refreshing escape from the urban grid and a unique, adventurous setting for your outdoor meal. One of its greatest advantages, and a reason it’s a favorite, is that it’s one of the few parks in Paris where you can bring your beloved furry friends. Our dogs, Violette and Chou Chou, adore exploring its paths, making this a top dog-friendly picnic spot in the city. Find a secluded spot on a hill, enjoy your food, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Buttes Chaumont

  • Coffee: For a delicious coffee, visit La Brûlerie de Jourdain, a local roaster offering fresh and aromatic brews.
  • Food: Grab classic French sandwiches from Boulangerie Patisserie Chez Paco, or pick up a rustic, fresh loaf from Poilâne to accompany your cheeses and charcuterie.
  • Pastries: Boulangerie Patisserie Chez Paco also boasts a lovely selection of desserts, ensuring a sweet end to your Buttes Chaumont picnic.

Square des Batignolles (Intimate & Charming)

Address: 144 bis rue Cardinet 75017 Paris

Square des Batignolles is a smaller, more intimate park, offering a charming English-style garden perfect for a peaceful picnic away from the bustling crowds. This hidden gem, particularly lovely in the Spring, delights visitors with blooming cherry blossoms and adorable baby ducks in its serene pond. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet, romantic meal or a relaxing afternoon with a good book. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it a local favorite for those seeking a moment of calm in the city.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Square des Batignolles

  • For coffee: Just across the street, Dose offers excellent specialty coffee to kickstart your picnic.
  • Food: For a quick and satisfying meal, pick up delicious takeout pizza from Alice Pizza, a popular choice in the neighborhood.
  • Pastries: Boulangerie Eric Kayser is a reliable option for freshly baked pastries and bread, ensuring a delightful addition to your picnic spread.

Steps of Notre Dame des Blancs Manteaux Church in the Marais 🐕

Address: 1 rue de l’Abbé Migné 75004 Paris

Tucked away in the historic and vibrant Marais district, the steps of the Notre Dame des Blancs Manteaux church offer a unique and impromptu picnic spot. This location is our absolute favorite for enjoying a quick, delicious meal, especially after picking up some famous falafel from the bustling Rue des Rosiers nearby. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in the lively atmosphere of the Marais, people-watch, and enjoy a casual, authentic Parisian experience. The area around the church is also dog-friendly, allowing your canine companion to relax by your side.

French Picnic Essentials Near Notre Dame des Blancs Manteaux Church

  • For coffee: Discover the tiny but charming Boot Café for an artisanal coffee experience in a truly unique setting.
  • Food: A must-try is the legendary falafel from Chez Hanna or L’As du Fallafel, both staples of the Rue des Rosiers and perfect for a flavorful, portable meal.
  • Pastries: Indulge in exquisite macarons from Pierre Hermé on Rue Sainte Croix de la Bretonnerie, delightful cookies from Scoop Me a Cookie, or try a unique Jewish cheesecake from La Boutique Jaune on Rue des Rosiers.

Experience a fabulous food and wine tour in the Marais!

Quais de Seine 🐕 (Romantic Riverside Picnics)

buildings along the banks of the Seine Paris

Address: Quais de Seine

The banks of the Seine River, known as the Quais de Seine, offer countless beautiful spots to settle down for a truly iconic Parisian picnic. Whether you choose a lively area near Notre Dame, a quiet stretch under a bridge, or a spot with views of the Louvre, you’ll be enveloped in a romantic and vibrant atmosphere. As boats glide by and the city lights begin to twinkle in the evening, a riverside picnic here is an unforgettable experience. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, bustling with life, music, and impromptu gatherings. Plus, many sections of the Quais are dog-friendly, allowing your pet to enjoy the river views with you.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Quais de Seine

  • For coffee: Visit La Caféothèque, one of Paris’s original specialty coffee shops, offering a wide selection of beans and expertly prepared drinks.
  • Food: For a taste of Brittany, grab delicious galettes and crêpes to go from Le Sarrasin et le Froment, perfect for a savory or sweet picnic treat.
  • Pastries: Indulge in exquisite pastries from Le Boulanger de la Tour (the prestigious bakery of La Tour d’Argent) or cool off with world-famous ice cream from Berthillon on Île Saint-Louis.

Get your Paris Museums Pass and gain access to more than 60 Parisian museums!

Quai de l’Ourcq 🐕 (A Modern Canal-Side Vibe)

Address: Quai de l’Ourcq

The Quai de l’Ourcq, located along the peaceful Canal de l’Ourcq in the 19th arrondissement, has rapidly become one of our favorite spots in recent years, offering a more contemporary and local Parisian experience. This vibrant area has seen a blossoming of charming restaurants and trendy coffee shops, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for a picnic if you’re looking for a less touristy, more authentic slice of Parisian life. The long stretches of canal banks are perfect for spreading a blanket, enjoying your food, and watching the boats go by. And, happily for dog owners, the Quai de l’Ourcq is a dog-friendly area, making it a great place to unwind with your pet.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Quai de l’Ourcq

  • For coffee: You can find great coffee at Paname Brewing Company, Café Caché – Café du 104, or the unique Le Pavillon des Canaux, all offering a cool, local vibe.
  • Food: Paname Brewing Company not only offers excellent craft beers but also serves delicious food that’s perfect for a casual picnic.
  • Pastries: Paname Brewing Company also offers various sweet treats and snacks that will round out your picnic selection perfectly.

Parc de Sceaux 🐕 (The Cherry Blossom Paradise)

couple kissing in the Parc de Sceaux France

Address: Domaine Départemental de Sceaux, 8 Avenue Claude Perrault 92330 Sceaux

While not technically within the strict boundaries of Paris, the Parc de Sceaux is an absolute must-mention for picnic enthusiasts, easily accessible by RER from the city center. This vast and magnificent estate, designed by André Le Nôtre, the landscape architect of Versailles, offers a grand and serene setting. It is our favorite bonus picnic spot because it becomes absolutely magical, especially during the cherry blossom season when its groves burst into a riot of pink blooms. It’s the perfect place for a romantic escape, a leisurely day trip, and yes, it’s dog-friendly too! Don’t hesitate to share a tender moment with your loved one under the beautiful trees – especially if you’re fortunate enough to visit during the enchanting cherry blossom season.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Parc de Sceaux

  • For coffee: Plaisirs des Thés is a wonderful local spot for a high-quality coffee or a comforting cup of tea.
  • Food: For the best bakery items in Sceaux, look no further than L’Etoile du Berger, offering artisanal bread, sandwiches, and savory tarts.
  • Pastries: L’Etoile du Berger also provides an exquisite selection of pastries and cakes, ideal for completing your idyllic picnic.

Schedule a Paris photoshoot to capture precious memories from your trip!

Canal Saint Martin 🐕 (Bohemian Canalside Bliss)

Address: Canal Saint Martin, 75010 Paris

Visiting the Canal Saint Martin offers a distinctly bohemian and trendy experience, making it one of the best non-touristy things to do in Paris. This picturesque canal, with its charming iron footbridges and intriguing locks, is a favorite haunt for students, artists, and young Parisians. The banks are lined with cool cafes and independent boutiques, creating a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere perfect for a casual picnic. Find a spot along the water’s edge, watch the boats pass through the locks, and soak in the laid-back, artistic vibe. It’s also a dog-friendly area, allowing your canine companion to enjoy the cool canalside air.

French Picnic Essentials Near the Canal Saint Martin

  • For coffee: Grab a delicious coffee from Caoua Coffee Stop, a local favorite for specialty brews.
  • Food: For savory picnic options, try Italian street food and pizza from La Strada Rossa, or indulge in flavorful Mexican takeout from El Nopal for a spicy kick.
  • Pastries: Don’t miss the exquisite pastries and traditional French bread from Du Pain et des Idées, famous for its “pain des amis” and delectable escargots (swirl pastries).

Paris Picnic Spots Map

To help you navigate and discover all these fantastic picnic locations, refer to the interactive map below. It pinpoints each of our recommended Paris picnic spots, making your planning even easier!

What Food to Bring for Your Picnic in Paris

Crafting the perfect Parisian picnic is an art form, and the beauty lies in simplicity and quality ingredients. If you prefer to gather your picnic provisions locally, Paris offers an abundance of specialized shops. You can stop at a boulangerie for fresh bread, a fromagerie for artisanal cheeses, a charcuterie for cured meats, or even a local grocery store (like Monoprix or Franprix) in the area you’re staying in for a variety of options. Embrace the French tradition of savoring high-quality, fresh produce.

  • Crunchy Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette is the absolute cornerstone of any French picnic. Its simple perfection is unmatched for soaking up flavors.
  • A Selection of Cheeses: Dive into the world of French cheese! We adore soft, creamy camembert, tangy chèvre cendré (a type of goat cheese), decadent brie truffé (brie infused with truffle), and the heart-shaped Neufchâtel (a stronger, cow’s milk cheese). Don’t hesitate to ask your cheesemonger for recommendations!
  • Fresh Fruits: Seasonal fruits add a burst of color and natural sweetness. Grapes, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are always lovely and easy to eat.
  • Charcuterie: Complement your cheese with a selection of cured meats like saucisson sec (dried sausage), jambon de Bayonne (cured ham), or a rich pâté.
  • Olives & Cornichons: These provide a delightful tangy counterpoint to the richness of cheeses and meats.
  • Salads & Quiches: Consider grabbing a pre-made salad (like lentil or pasta salad) or a slice of quiche from a local traiteur (deli) for more substantial fare.
  • Drinks: A bottle of crisp French rosé or a light red wine is classic. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water, fresh juice, or even a traditional French lemonade are perfect.
  • Pastries or Sweets: End your meal with something sweet! Macarons, a small tarte aux fruits, a pain au chocolat, or a simple square of dark chocolate are ideal.

Embrace the joy of discovering local delis, bakeries, and markets to assemble your personalized, gourmet picnic basket!

Easy Recipes You Can Prepare for Your Parisian Picnic

If you’re fortunate enough to have access to a kitchen during your stay in Paris, why not add a personal touch to your picnic by preparing some easy and delicious recipes in advance? These homemade treats are perfect for packing and will make your Parisian picnic even more special and memorable.

  • Pinwheel Sandwiches: Fun, colorful, and easy to eat, these are a picnic classic.
  • Chocolate Dipped Madeleines: A delightful French classic with a sweet twist, perfect for a treat.
  • Tomato Feta Tortellini Salad: A flavorful and satisfying pasta salad that travels well.
  • Lentil Salad with Beets and Goat Cheese: A hearty and healthy option, packed with vibrant flavors and textures.

Where to Stay in Paris

Choosing the right accommodation is key to enhancing your Parisian experience. Here are some fantastic hotel options, ranging from luxurious stays to more affordable, yet chic, choices, all offering excellent access to the city’s charm and picnic spots:

  • Hotel du Louvre: This hotel boasts a perfect location directly across from the Palais Royal and just steps away from the Louvre and the Tuileries, making it ideal for cultural explorations and easy access to dog-friendly picnic spots.
  • Maison Souquet: A luxurious hideaway in the 9th arrondissement, housed in a magnificent maison particulière from the 1800s. Its opulent interiors and stellar bar offer an unforgettable stay.
  • Maison Proust: This gorgeous new hotel in Paris features an absolutely dreamy La Mer spa, offering an unparalleled level of relaxation and indulgence.
  • Hotel Parister: For a stylish yet more affordable stay, this hotel in the trendy 9th arrondissement offers modern comforts and excellent amenities.
  • Hotel Delavigne: A centrally located and affordable option in the 6th arrondissement, just a short walk from the vibrant Odéon neighborhood and Luxembourg Gardens.
  • Hotel La Comtesse: An affordable 4-star hotel offering the rare treat of Eiffel Tower views from every single room, ensuring a truly memorable Parisian experience.

Related: Don’t Miss These Boutique Hotels in Paris

Love France? Bring French Vintage Treasures into Your Home!

If you’ve fallen in love with the timeless elegance and unique charm of France during your trip, why not bring a piece of that magic home with you? French vintage treasures add character and history to any space, allowing you to cherish your memories of Paris long after your picnic is over.

Check out our French vintage boutique, My French Curiosities, on Etsy!

Top Paris Activities

Beyond picnicking, Paris offers an incredible array of activities to fill your itinerary. Make the most of your trip by planning some of these unforgettable experiences:

  • Take a Seine river cruise: Glide along the iconic Seine, enjoying a glass of wine while taking in the magnificent Parisian monuments illuminated from the water.
  • Visit Sainte Chapelle: Prepare to be awestruck by this breathtaking chapel and its stunning, vibrant stained-glass windows – an absolute must-see during your trip to Paris!
  • Visit the Louvre: Book your skip-the-line tickets to the world-renowned Louvre Museum to ensure quick entry and ample time to immerse yourself in its unparalleled art collections.
  • Go to Paris Disney: For the Disney enthusiast, add an exciting day at Disneyland Paris to your itinerary for a magical escape from the city.
  • Go up the Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without scheduling a visit up the Eiffel Tower to witness panoramic views of the entire city from above!

More Paris Posts

For even more tips and insights into exploring the City of Light, check out our other popular Paris guides:

  • Paris Coffee Guide: Your ultimate guide to finding the best coffee in Paris, organized by arrondissement.
  • Foods in Paris: Don’t miss our top 8 essential foods to try during your Parisian adventure!
  • Free Things to Do in Paris: Discover our top 60 free activities to enjoy in Paris without breaking the bank.
  • Paris Travel Tips: Over 50 expert tips to help you plan and enjoy a seamless trip to Paris.
  • Donuts in Paris: Our curated selection of the absolute best donuts the city has to offer.
  • La Recyclerie Paris: Our detailed review of this unique, can’t-miss Parisian restaurant and urban farm.
  • Boot Cafe: You’ll fall in love with this tiny, charming Parisian cafe known for its cozy atmosphere.
  • Le Meurice Tea Time: Everything you need to know about experiencing the elegant afternoon tea at Le Meurice Paris.
  • Cherry Blossoms in Paris: Learn when and where to see the gorgeous Spring blossoms throughout the city.

Plan Your Perfect Picnic in Paris

Embracing the tradition of a picnic in Paris is a wonderful way to experience the city like a local, creating intimate and memorable moments. From the grand, iconic backdrops to serene, hidden gardens, Paris offers an endless array of perfect spots for your outdoor feast. We hope this guide has provided you with everything you need to know about choosing the perfect Parisian picnic spot, what delicious French delicacies to bring, and how to make your next trip truly special. Do you have a favorite hidden gem or a special picnic memory in Paris? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

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First published May 15, 2022. Last updated March 4, 2025 with more information, additional tips, and better readability.