Don’t get caught with your picnic-pants down this year – go somewhere unique.
Image: Wikicommons
Spring in Paris… le sigh. One of our favorite authors, Henry Miller, once said, “When Spring comes to Paris the humblest mortal alive must feel that he dwells in paradise.” We couldn’t agree more!
Know what else spring in Paris means? Picnic weather!
Feeling overwhelmed with all of the possibilities of where to head for a meal ‘dans l’air frais’? Sometimes you just don’t want to go to Parc Monceau, even if it’s so beautiful, because half a million other Parisians have the same idea.
So what do you do? Simple: read on for our recommendations for 5 unique parks perfect for picnicking in Paris. (Say that five times fast…)
The Quays of Canals de l’Ourcq and Saint Martin
Image: Wikicommons
Image: Wikicommons
What is it?
The Seine river that cuts through the center of Paris is pretty famous, but did you know that there are other, smaller canals that run through the north-east part of Paris? Take it from us – you have got to check them out!
During the warmer months the quais (banks of river/canal) are a perfect place to post up for the afternoon with a picnic.
Bonus:
Most people believe that the canals are much cleaner than the Seine, so on those really hot summer days, feel free to dip your feet in!
Where is it?
Canal Saint Martin: Quai de Valmy, 75010 Paris
Canal de l’Ourcq: Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris
Why we love it:
We all know and love the Seine, but sometimes it can get a bit crowded once the weather gets nicer. There’s nothing quite like chilling out in the sunshine next to a body of water, right?! If you close your eyes and listen to the water, you can almost imagine that you’re on a beach…almost! For a change of pace and scenery, check out this lesser known spot.
Parc André Citroën
Image: Wikicommons
What is it?
Parc André Citroën is a park located in the western part of Paris. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Eiffel Tower. The park was constructed on the site of an old Citroën manufacturing plant, hence its name. For those not in the know – Citroën is a very well known French car brand.
No time to head to the South of France? There are even two greenhouses in this park containing exotic plants and trees native to the Mediterranean. Feel like you’re soaking up the sun in Nice or Cannes by entering one of the greenhouses!
Where is it?
2 Rue Cauchy, 75015 Paris.
Why we love it:
Even though this park is very closely located to the Eiffel Tower, many non-residents don’t know about it. With its sprawling lawn perfect for laying down a blanket, you won’t be able to resist setting up camp here with a couple of baguettes, fromage, and some wine!
Bonus:
There is a giant helium balloon that takes its passengers up in the air for an amazing view of Paris and its landmarks such as the Champ de Mars, the Seine river, the Sacré Cœur and the Notre Dame. Highly recommended for some added interest to your picnic.
Square du Vert-Galant
Image: Wikicommons
What is it?
The Square du Vert-Galant translates into ‘square of the old charmer’. If you’re scratching your head at this translation, never fear, your Sight Seeker’s Delight historians are here! This square is named after the French King Henry IV. Henry IV was known far and wide as a ladies man, and Vert-Galant was his nickname! There is also a statue worth checking out dedicated to the king, located just steps away from the square.
Where is it?
Place du Pont-Neuf, 75001 Paris
Why we love it:
The Ile-de-la-Cité is one of the oldest parts of Paris, and the history buff in us loves this. Located on the same island as the Notre Dame, the Conciergerie, and Sainte Chapelle, you’ll be surrounded by some of the oldest monuments in Paris! Set up a picnic and soak up all of the amazing history that has happened here!
Bonus:
With views of the Seine river on all sides, you’ll have an awesome view no matter which direction you look!
Parc de Belleville
Image: Wikicommons
What is it?
Many tourists and Paris first-timers aren’t aware of this part of the city, but Belleville is most well-known as a mini ‘Chinatown’ Paris. Nestled between the Buttes-Chaumont park and Pére Lachaise cemetery, the Parc de Belleville is located in the north-eastern section of Paris. The park itself is filled with a beautiful selection of trees and flowers, and there is also a playground for our readers with children.
Where is it?
47 Rue des Couronnes, 75020 Paris
Why we love it:
Come here for a sunset picnic and be prepared to have your mind blown! The park is the highest park in Paris, and it is one of our favorite locales in the city to watch the sun go down.
Bonus:
There’s even a small museum in the park dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of air quality!
Parc de la Villette
Image: Flickr Dalbera
What is it?
This park is a hotspot in Paris for cultural activities, with a large variety of things to check out. The park includes theaters, museums, gardens, sculptures, and wide open spaces perfect for picnicking. Parc de la Vilette is a great place to spend an entire day… and after doing some exploring, we know you’ll work up an appetite! Pack a picnic and don’t be afraid to take a load off on one of the many lawns where sitting is permitted.
Where is it?
211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris
Why we love it:
The sculptures and overall architecture of all of the buildings in the Parc de la Villette are an awesome way to soak up some modern art without having to enter a museum! We never say ‘non’ to a museum, but checking out art in the fresh air is an amazing thing.
Bonus:
The Parc de la Villette includes an open-air cinema in July and August! Pack a basket and bring a blanket and enjoy a movie and a picnic under the stars.
And there you have it, folks: the top unique parks to picnic in Paris.
We hope you have enjoyed our brief list of suggestions of where to go for a picnic in Paris. Now all you need to figure out is what to pack in your basket!
Do you have a favorite unique picnic spot we missed? Let us know in the comments.
Place Dauphine – so peaceful!!
That’s another great park, and we love it too! We didn’t pick it for this article since it’s not the best park for a picnic… the park itself is gravel not grass (can you say dusty butts?!), and the benches are often full. But it is definitely a great go-to spot for a bit of peace, like you said 🙂 We’ll have to put together a list of the most peaceful, zen places in Paris. What other suggestions do you have? Would LOVE your input!