Good picnic spots in Paris

Thank you!

This is a favorite of mine - Pont Solferino at sunset (pedestrian bridge between Musee d'Orsay and Louvre/Tuileries)- best if you arrive around 19h30 but before 20h because benches become scarce. You can either look at Notre Dame or the Grand Palais.

My favorite spot is the Square Rene Vivani, on the Left Bank across from Notre Dame. It's small and a lot of people tend to pass it, so it was never crowded when I was there. There are many benchs, some in the sun, some shaded by trees and a great view to boot.
When I was there in June I bought a book at the near by Shakespere and Co, and bought a stirfried meal from a small take out place behind the park called Wok Express and had a lovely afternoon break there, and was able to walk to the Ile St Louis for some Berthillion ice cream.

I enjoyed the view of the Ile de Cite from a bench on Pont Neuf. Great people watching area as well. This probably isn't the best place for an elaborate picnic spread, but its a good spot for take-away sandwiches. I don't recall the name of the deli nearby, but the sandwich was quite delicious.

We've had nice picnics in the park at Place des Vosges, Luxembourg gardens, Park Monceau, etc. Did our food shopping at Bon Marche on the Left Bank. Nice inexpensive and relaxing way to people watch and dine.

In Monmartre you could picnic on the steps leading up to the Sacre Coeur - great people watching. I would shop for food before getting on the train, though, as it may be hard to find any regular grocery type shops nearby. There are a few places just around the corner from the SC that sell pizza by the slice and bottled drinks to take away. I don't recall any area up there that is really park-like, although the Place du Tertre has numerous cafes outdoors. Some are pricey and at others you can have a sandwich or soup very reasonably priced. Check the posted menu.

The New York Times recently ran an article on the Hidden Gardens of Paris. If you Google "New York Times Hidden Paris Gardens", the link will come up for the article.

Hi AKF,

... behind Notre Dame is a good place, too. bon appétit...P

The Pont des Arts at sunset. I also agree about the garden behind Notre Dame.

Square du vert galant! I love to hang my feet over the seine near the Pont Neuf and watch the boats go by.

I have found that Luxenbourg gardens to be the best picnic spot.

I love Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement.

Place des Vosges (in the Marais)

In Paris you will want a place close to where you are at lunch time.

You wont want to hop on the metro and spend valuable time when it is not necessary.

I always ask someone nearby where the closest park is. You wont have to ask very many people. In Paris the nearest park is practically just around the nearest corner.