There’s something undeniably magical about enjoying a picnic in Paris. Whether you’re nestled by the Seine, sprawled out in the Luxembourg Gardens, or taking in the views of the Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars, a Parisian picnic is the perfect way to soak in the city’s charm and culinary delights, and we think that it should be on every visitor's itinerary! For that reason, we’ve put together a complete guide to creating an unforgettable DIY picnic in the City of Light. Be sure to check out our "Picnic Essentials" Amazon list for all of your picnic needs!
Quick Tip: Learn some basic French phrases. While many Parisians speak English, making an effort to use basic French phrases can go a long way. Simple greetings like "Bonjour" (Hello), "Merci" (Thank you), and "S'il vous plaît" (Please) can make interactions smoother and more pleasant.
For a full guide on how to make the most of your visit to Paris, check out our “48 Hours in Paris” travel itinerary!
⬇️ Watch our “48 Hours in Paris” video for a closer look at our time in Paris! ⬇️
⬇️ For the best Tours, Tickets, & Experiences, check out GetYouGuide! ⬇️
⬇️ Looking for the perfect stay in Paris? Check out these recommendations! ⬇️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Shangri-La Paris
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hotel du Cadran
⭐⭐⭐ Rayz Eiffel
⭐⭐⭐ Beaugency Hotel (where we stayed)
Now, let's talk about how to have the perfect picnic in Paris!
1. Choose Your Perfect Spot
Paris is brimming with picturesque picnic spots. Here are some classic options:
Champ de Mars: Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower.
Jardin des Tuileries: Ideal for a central location with beautiful gardens.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A bit off the beaten path with rolling hills and a lake.
Île de la Cité: Find a spot by the Seine for a tranquil riverside picnic.
Jardin du Luxembourg: Beautiful, well-maintained gardens with plenty of space.
2. Gather Your Supplies
A successful picnic requires some thoughtful preparation. Here’s your checklist:
Picnic Basics:
Picnic blanket: Opt for a waterproof one in case the grass is damp.
Reusable cutlery and plates: Eco-friendly and easy to pack.
Corkscrew/bottle opener: Essential for wine lovers.
Napkins: Pack a few extra for spills and clean-up.
Trash bag: Keep Paris beautiful by leaving no trace.
Hand sanitizer or wipes: For easy hand cleaning.
Food and Drink:
Baguette: A must-have from a local boulangerie (bakery).
Cheese: Visit a fromagerie (cheese shop) for a variety of French cheeses.
Charcuterie: Saucisson, pâté, or ham from a local boucherie (butcher shop).
Fresh fruits: Grapes, strawberries, or figs from a market.
Pastries: Croissants, pain au chocolat, or macarons for dessert.
Salad: A simple, fresh salad can be a nice addition.
Wine or sparkling water: Choose a nice bottle of French wine or bring sparkling water.
Optional Extras:
Portable speaker: For some background music.
Books or magazines: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Games: A deck of cards or a small game can add to the fun.
Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from the sun if it’s a bright day.
Umbrella or raincoat: Just in case the weather changes unexpectedly.
3. Shop Like a Parisian
Half the fun of a Parisian picnic is the shopping experience. Here are some tips:
Visit local markets: Explore the Marché d'Aligre or the Marché des Enfants Rouges for fresh produce and unique finds.
Specialty shops: Stop by a boulangerie for bread, a fromagerie for cheese, and a boucherie/charcuterie for meats.
Supermarkets: Monoprix and Franprix are convenient for last-minute items.
4. Plan Your Timing
Parisian parks and gardens have specific opening hours, and some may close at dusk. Check the opening hours in advance and plan to arrive early if you want a prime spot, especially on weekends or during the summer.
5. Embrace the Experience
A picnic in Paris is as much about the experience as it is about the food. Take your time to enjoy the surroundings, people-watch, and savor the moment. Remember, picnicking is a beloved Parisian pastime—relax and enjoy it like a local.
Final Checklist
Location chosen
Blanket packed
Reusable cutlery and plates
Corkscrew/bottle opener
Napkins and trash bag
Hand sanitizer
Food and drinks
Optional extras (speaker, books, games)
Sunscreen and hat
Umbrella or raincoat
Check out our "Picnic Essentials" Amazon list for our favorite picnic items!
And if all of this DIY stuff just sounds overwhelming, then consider booking a full-service picnic experience where they handle all of the details and you just show up and enjoy the food, wine, and views!
We hope that this guide has helped you plan your perfect picnic in Paris, and if it has, we hope you’ll consider following us on Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube Channel for more travel content! And be sure to check out our “48 Hours in Paris” travel itinerary for tips on how to make the most of your visit to the most romantic city in the world! Bon appétit!
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