8 Best Picnic Spots in Paris With Incredible Views

I've discovered the most enchanting picnic spots in Paris for you! Let's start with Champ de Mars for iconic Eiffel Tower views, then Luxembourg Gardens for royal elegance. Don't miss Canal Saint-Martin's hip waterfront, Place des Vosges' historic charm, or Trocadéro Gardens' panoramic vistas. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers hidden hilltop magic, while Jardin des Tuileries and Sacré-Cœur's lawn provide unforgettable cityscapes. Each location holds its own special secrets and stories!

Champ De Mars: the Classic Eiffel Tower Experience

Stretching between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire, the Champ de Mars stands as one of Paris's most iconic green spaces, offering an unparalleled picnic experience beneath the city's most famous landmark. This sprawling lawn has been a gathering place for Parisians and tourists alike since the 18th century, combining architectural grandeur with the simple pleasure of outdoor dining.

What sets Champ de Mars apart from other Parisian picnic spots is its ideal mixture of ambiance and accessibility. The carefully manicured gardens provide ample space for spreading out a blanket, while the magnificent views of the Iron Lady create an atmosphere that simply can't be replicated elsewhere in the city. As the sun sets, visitors are treated to the tower's spectacular light show, adding an extra layer of magic to their alfresco dining experience.

Quick Facts:

• Best visiting hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• Peak times: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM and sunset hours
• Cost: Free admission
• Best photography times: Golden hour (just before sunset)
• Security presence: Regular patrols, especially during peak season
• Facilities: Public restrooms available near the Eiffel Tower
• Accessibility: Multiple metro stations nearby (École Militaire, Bir-Hakeim)

The Ideal Picnic Location

The best spot for your picnic blanket is midway between the Eiffel Tower and École Militaire, roughly 200 meters from the tower. This sweet spot offers the perfect photo angle while providing enough distance to fully appreciate the tower's scale. The grass here tends to be better maintained, and the century-old chestnut trees provide welcome shade during summer months.

Insider tip: The lesser-known eastern side of the park typically has fewer crowds and offers equally stunning views, plus better protection from prevailing winds.

Pro Tips:

Evening picnickers should arrive at least two hours before sunset to secure a prime spot, especially during summer months. Bring a light blanket even on warm days, as the grass can become dewy as evening approaches. While most visitors cluster close to the tower, the view is actually more impressive from further back, allowing you to capture the entire structure in photos while enjoying a more peaceful setting.

Practical Considerations:

While alcohol is generally tolerated, glass bottles are discouraged. Local authorities occasionally patrol the area, particularly during peak tourist season. Consider bringing a backup plan for inclement weather, such as knowing the location of nearby cafes. The closest food shops are located on Rue Cler (7th arrondissement), where you can assemble a perfect picnic from various specialty stores. Remember to bring bags for trash, as bins can fill quickly during busy periods, and maintaining the cleanliness of this historic space is essential.

Luxembourg Gardens: Royal Elegance in the Latin Quarter

The Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) stands as a magnificent embodiment of French formal garden design, offering 23 hectares of manicured lawns, stunning flowerbeds, and elegant statuary in the heart of Paris's Latin Quarter. Created in 1612 by Marie de' Medici, this garden has evolved into a beloved sanctuary where Parisians and visitors alike escape the city's bustle to indulge in peaceful picnics amid royal splendor.

Beyond its historical significance, the gardens provide an unparalleled picnic setting with a perfect blend of sun-drenched lawns and shaded retreats. The distinctive green metal chairs scattered throughout invite visitors to create their own perfect picnic spot, while the grand palace backdrop and central fountain add a touch of nobility to every outdoor meal.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to sunset (varies seasonally)
• Entrance: Free
• Best Picnic Times: 11 AM-2 PM or 4-6 PM
• Photography Permitted: Yes (no commercial)
• Seating: Free public chairs available
• Facilities: Public restrooms, water fountains
• Nearest Metro: Luxembourg (RER B)

The Great Lawn (Pelouse Centrale) serves as the garden's prime picnic location, offering expansive views of the Luxembourg Palace. While official rules restrict sitting on some grass areas, designated spaces are clearly marked and provide ample room for blankets and the garden's iconic metal chairs. The surrounding chestnut trees offer natural shade during summer months, and the central fountain provides a soothing soundtrack for your outdoor feast.

The Western Terrace area presents an elevated vantage point overlooking the garden's famous Medici Fountain. This less-crowded section features several benches and chairs, making it ideal for intimate picnics. The nearby Orangerie provides shelter during brief rain showers and houses temporary art exhibitions worth exploring before or after your meal.

Pro Tips:

The best picnic experience comes from arriving early (before noon) to secure prime spots near the central fountain. Bring a light blanket even if planning to use the chairs, as morning dew can linger. Weekday visits offer noticeably fewer crowds than weekends, and the gardens are particularly magical during late September when the leaves begin changing colors but temperatures remain mild.

Practical Advice:

While alcohol is technically permitted in picnic settings, maintain discretion with wine consumption. Bring sufficient water as summer days can be warm, and consider purchasing supplies from nearby shops in the Latin Quarter, particularly Rue Mouffetard's market street, located just a 10-minute walk away. Remember that gardens close at sunset, with guards making closing announcements 30 minutes prior – plan your picnic timing accordingly.

Canal Saint-Martin: Hip Waterfront Vibes

The Canal Saint-Martin stands as one of Paris's most beloved picnic destinations, where historic waterways meet contemporary urban culture. This 4.5-kilometer waterfront stretch, built in 1825, has transformed from a working-class industrial area into a bustling social hub, attracting both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Parisian experience.

Along its tree-lined banks and iconic iron footbridges, the canal creates the perfect backdrop for al fresco dining and people-watching. The area pulses with creative energy, surrounded by artisanal boutiques, trendy cafes, and street art, making it an excellent spot to experience the city's younger, more bohemian side while enjoying your picnic spread.

Quick Facts:

• Best visiting hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Peak picnic seasons: Spring through early Fall
• Nearest Metro stations: République, Goncourt, Jacques Bonsergent
• Public restrooms: Available at Point Éphémère
• Grocery stores nearby: Multiple options within 5-minute walk
• Popular days: Weekends and summer evenings
• Photography permitted: Yes
• Alcohol consumption: Allowed, but practice moderation

Best Picnic Spots Along the Canal:

The Double Lock Area (Square Frédérick-Lemaître)

This spot offers prime views of boats maneuvering the historic double lock system, with wide stone steps serving as natural seating. The area provides ample shade from plane trees and attracts fewer tourists than other sections. Insider tip: Arrive around 3:30 PM to watch the lock operations while enjoying your picnic.

Quai de Valmy

The western bank features the widest sidewalks and most consistent sunshine throughout the day. Street performers often gather here, providing free entertainment. Look for the painted building facades near number 53 for an especially picturesque backdrop. Insider tip: The section between Rue des Récollets and Rue des Vinaigriers offers the best people-watching opportunities.

Pro Tips:

For the best Canal Saint-Martin picnic experience, arrive after 4:00 PM when the afternoon light creates perfect photo opportunities and the after-work crowd begins to gather, creating an authentic Parisian atmosphere. Sunday afternoons are particularly lively, but arrive early to secure a prime spot. Consider bringing a thin blanket or cushion, as the stone surfaces can become uncomfortable after extended periods.

Practical Advice:

Several excellent food shops line Rue de Lancry and Rue Bichat, perfect for assembling a proper picnic. Stock up at Du Pain et des Idées for acclaimed croissants, Ten Belles for coffee, and any of the numerous fromageries for cheese. Remember that the canal area has limited trash bins, so bring a small bag for your waste and be prepared to carry it out. During summer months, portable water fountains are installed along the canal, making it easy to stay hydrated during your waterfront feast.

Place Des Vosges: Historic Marais Square

Nestled in the heart of the Marais district, Place des Vosges stands as Paris's oldest planned square and one of its most enchanting picnic destinations. This perfectly symmetrical 17th-century square, with its striking red-brick architecture and elegant arcaded walkways, offers visitors a royal setting for their outdoor dining experience, reflecting the square's history as a favorite amongst French nobility.

The square's meticulously manicured lawns, surrounded by graceful linden trees and musical fountains, provide an idyllic backdrop for both casual lunches and romantic evening picnics. Unlike many Parisian parks, Place des Vosges maintains a uniquely intimate atmosphere despite its grand architectural setting, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to experience the authentic Parisian art de vivre.

Quick Facts:

• Best visiting hours: 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM (summer), 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (winter)
• Peak picnic times: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Photography permitted: Yes (no commercial shoots without permit)
• Facilities: Public restrooms available nearby
• Seating: Grass areas and benches available
• Nearest Metro: Saint-Paul (Line 1) or Chemin Vert (Line 8)
• Surrounding amenities: Numerous cafes, bakeries, and wine shops

The Square's Layout and Features

The 140-square-meter space features pristine lawns divided into four triangular sections, each surrounding a central fountain. The perimeter consists of 36 identical pavilions, housing art galleries, cafes, and the famous Victor Hugo Museum. Picnickers can choose between sunny central spots or shaded areas beneath the historic arcades, with the gentle sound of fountains providing a soothing backdrop to their meal.

Insider Tip: The northwest corner of the square, near Pavilion de la Reine, offers the best photo opportunities and tends to be less crowded than the southern sections.

Pro Tips:

Timing is important when planning a picnic at Place des Vosges. Arrive before noon to secure prime spots, particularly on weekends. The best light for photos falls between 4-6 PM when the sun casts a warm glow on the red brick facades. Consider visiting during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) when the weather is mild and crowds are thinner.

Practical Advice:

While alcohol consumption is permitted, maintain discretion and bring proper glassware rather than obvious bottles. Bring a waterproof blanket as the grass can be damp even on sunny days. Local markets and shops around Rue St. Antoine provide excellent picnic provisions, including the renowned Mariage Frères tea house and numerous fromageries. Remember to respect the space by disposing of trash properly and avoiding damage to the grass areas.

Trocadéro Gardens: Panoramic Tower Views

Located in the 16th arrondissement, the Trocadéro Gardens offer what many consider the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. These perfectly manicured gardens, created for the 1937 World's Fair, provide an elevated vantage point across the Seine River, making them an unparalleled picnic destination for both tourists and locals seeking that picture-perfect Parisian experience.

The gardens' grand terraces, ornate fountains, and golden statuary create a sophisticated backdrop for outdoor dining, while the elevated position guarantees unobstructed views of Paris's most iconic landmark. Whether you're planning a romantic sunset picnic or a casual lunch break, the Trocadéro Gardens combine architectural grandeur with practical amenities, making them an essential stop on any Paris itinerary.

Quick Facts:

• Best visiting hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• Peak times: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Best photo opportunities: Sunrise and just before sunset
• Nearest Metro: Trocadéro (Lines 6 and 9)
• Facilities: Public restrooms, water fountains
• Security presence: Regular patrols throughout the day
• Seating options: Stone benches, grass areas, steps

The Warsaw Fountain Terrace

The main terrace, featuring the Warsaw Fountain, provides the most sought-after picnic spots. This area offers unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower while being far enough away to capture the entire structure in photographs. The fountain's seasonal water shows add a dynamic element to your picnic experience, while the surrounding stone benches provide comfortable seating options. Insider tip: The lesser-known eastern corner of the terrace offers equally stunning views but typically attracts fewer tourists.

The Lower Gardens

Below the main terrace, the lower gardens provide a more intimate setting with grassy areas perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket. These spaces are sheltered by carefully trimmed trees and offer a mix of sun and shade throughout the day. The gardens feature several hidden alcoves with benches, perfect for those seeking a more private dining experience. Insider tip: Look for the small meditation garden near the aquarium entrance – it's often overlooked by tourists but offers peaceful respite.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Trocadéro Gardens picnic experience, arrive early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) to secure prime viewing spots and avoid the largest crowds. The lighting is also ideal for photography during these early hours, with the sun rising behind you as you face the Eiffel Tower. Consider visiting during the off-season months (November through March) when the gardens are less crowded but equally beautiful, offering unique photo opportunities with seasonal fog or frost.

Practical Advice:

Bring a water-resistant blanket as the grass can be damp even on sunny days. Local security regulations prohibit glass bottles and alcohol consumption in certain areas, so opt for plastic containers and check current regulations before your visit. The nearby Passy market (open Wednesday and Saturday mornings) offers fresh picnic provisions, including French cheese, bread, and charcuterie. During summer months, be prepared for occasional street performers and vendors, which can add to the atmosphere but may affect the tranquility of your picnic experience.

Parc Des Buttes-Chaumont: Hidden Hilltop Paradise

Tucked away in the 19th arrondissement, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont stands as one of Paris's most dramatic and romantic green spaces. This 61-acre park, built in 1867 under Napoleon III's direction, transformed an abandoned quarry into a masterpiece of landscape architecture, featuring steep cliffs, waterfalls, and a temple perched high above a tranquil lake.

Unlike the manicured symmetry of classic French gardens, Buttes-Chaumont offers a wild, English-style landscape that feels worlds away from typical Parisian parks. Its varying elevations provide stunning panoramic views of the city, while hidden grottos, winding paths, and suspended bridges create an atmosphere of adventure and discovery that makes it ideal for memorable picnics.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM (summer), 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM (winter)
• Best Times to Visit: Early morning or sunset for photography
• Facilities: Public restrooms, multiple water fountains, several cafes
• Access: Metro stations Buttes Chaumont (Line 7bis) or Botzaris (Line 7bis)
• Photography Tips: Golden hour at Temple de la Sibylle offers best lighting
• Picnic Areas: Multiple lawn spaces, both sun-exposed and shaded

Temple de la Sibylle, crowning the park's central island, provides the most coveted picnic spot. This Roman-style temple, accessible via the dramatic suspension bridge, offers 360-degree views of Paris, including Montmartre's Sacré-Cœur. While most visitors congregate here, few know about the hidden staircase behind the temple leading to a quieter viewing platform.

The Rosa Bonheur, a charming guinguette-style restaurant within the park, serves as both a convenient backup plan for picnickers and a destination itself. While most guidebooks mention its weekend brunch, the Thursday evening aperitif sessions feature local musicians and a more authentic Parisian crowd.

Pro Tips:

Arrive early (before 11 AM) on weekends to secure prime picnic spots, particularly around the temple area. The park's northern entrance near Botzaris station offers the gentlest incline for those carrying picnic supplies. During summer months, the eastern slopes provide natural shade after 3 PM, making them ideal for afternoon gatherings.

Practical Advice:

The park's steep terrain requires comfortable walking shoes, and picnickers should bring a blanket with good grip, as many grassy areas are on an incline. Local markets on Rue de Crimée offer fresh supplies, but remember that glass bottles are technically prohibited in the park (though this rule is loosely enforced). Consider bringing a small flashlight if staying until closing, as some paths have minimal lighting after sunset.

Jardin Des Tuileries: Royal Garden Between the Louvre and Concorde

The Jardin des Tuileries stands as a magnificent symbol of French formal garden design, stretching majestically between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. This historic royal garden, created by Catherine de Medici in 1564, offers visitors a perfect blend of sculptural art, perfectly manicured landscapes, and serene picnic spots in the heart of Paris.

Walking through these 28 hectares of greenery, visitors discover an outdoor museum where classical statues dot tree-lined pathways, and elegant fountains create a soothing atmosphere. The garden's strategic location makes it an ideal spot for tourists to rest between museum visits while enjoying quintessential Parisian views, including the Eiffel Tower peeking through the western entrance.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM (April to September), 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM (October to March)
• Cost: Free admission
• Best Visiting Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Nearest Metro: Tuileries (Line 1), Concorde (Lines 1, 8, 12)
• Facilities: Public restrooms, cafes, children's playground
• Photography: Best light during golden hour, particularly near fountains
• Seating: Multiple options including free chairs around fountains

The garden's main picnic area centers around the octagonal basin, where iconic green metal chairs provide comfortable seating. This spot offers unparalleled views of both the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, making it particularly atmospheric during sunset. The surrounding trees provide adequate shade during summer months, while the nearby Angelina café offers takeaway options for those who haven't packed their own picnic.

Pro Tips:

The best picnic spots are found along the northern terrace, where fewer tourists venture. Bring a lightweight blanket even if planning to use the chairs, as morning dew can make them damp. Visit during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. The garden hosts temporary contemporary art installations throughout the year, providing ever-changing backdrops for photos.

Practical Advice:

While alcohol is technically permitted, maintain discretion and avoid glass containers. The garden can become quite busy during peak tourist season (June-August), so arrive before noon to secure prime picnic spots. Consider picking up supplies at the Rue de Rivoli shops before entering, as garden vendors tend to be expensive. During inclement weather, the covered arcades along Rue de Rivoli provide shelter while maintaining views of the garden.

Sacré-Cœur Basilica Lawn: Montmartre's Magical Vista

Perched atop the highest hill in Paris, the pristine lawn in front of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers one of the most breathtaking picnic experiences in the City of Light. The sweeping panoramic views of Paris stretch endlessly before you, while the majestic white-domed basilica stands guard behind, creating an atmosphere that perfectly balances the sacred and social aspects of Parisian life.

This beloved gathering spot transforms throughout the day, from morning yoga enthusiasts to afternoon picnickers, and finally to sunset-seeking romantics. The grassy steps have witnessed countless marriage proposals, impromptu music performances, and memorable moments among friends, making it not just a picnic spot but a living stage for Parisian life at its most authentic.

Quick Facts:

• Best visiting hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM daily
• Cost: Free access to lawn area
• Best picnic times: Late afternoon (4-7 PM)
• Photography conditions: Ideal during golden hour (1 hour before sunset)
• Crowd levels: High during weekends and summer evenings
• Facilities: Public restrooms available inside basilica during opening hours
• Security: Regular police patrols, especially during peak hours

The Lawn Experience

The spacious lawn consists of several terraced levels, each offering slightly different perspectives of the city. The grass is well-maintained and comfortable for sitting, though bringing a blanket is recommended. The central steps are the most popular spot, providing natural seating with the best views, while the side areas offer more privacy and space to spread out. An insider secret: the far right corner of the lawn typically has fewer tourists and offers an equally stunning view.

Pro Tips

Timing is everything at Sacré-Cœur's lawn. Arrive about two hours before sunset to secure a prime spot, as the area becomes increasingly crowded as dusk approaches. Bring a backup plan for seating – while the grass is lovely, the stone steps can become uncomfortably warm during summer afternoons. Consider packing a small cushion or foldable seat pad along with your picnic blanket.

Market to Picnic Strategy

The nearby Rue des Abbesses offers excellent provisions for your picnic. Stock up at the local fromagerie, boulangerie, and wine shop – but be aware that drinking alcohol on the lawn is technically not permitted (though discreet consumption is generally tolerated). A practical approach is to pack your items in a backpack rather than shopping bags, as the climb to the top can be strenuous. Remember to bring water, as there are limited refreshment options near the lawn itself.