16 Relaxed Picnic Spots in Paris Locals Recommend

Looking for a peaceful picnic in Paris without crowds on every patch of grass? Places like Luxembourg or Champ de Mars are iconic but rarely quiet. This list pulls together real tips from travelers and locals on where you can actually stretch out, eat something good, and hear the birds instead of a thousand footsteps.

These spots are all accessible by public transport. Many have toilets, water fountains, or other facilities. A few are just outside the city limits but easy to reach on the RER.

1. Parc Montsouris (14th arrondissement)

This large park in the south of Paris is scenic and usually manageable, even on warm weekends. There’s a lake, sloping lawns, shaded paths, and room to breathe.

If it does feel busy, you can cross Boulevard Jourdan to the Cité Universitaire campus: public access, less foot traffic, and a good option for quiet.

2. Jardin de l’Hôpital Saint-Louis (10th arrondissement)

Sitting near Canal Saint-Martin, this hidden garden is part of a hospital complex. It’s clean, quiet, and unknown to most visitors.

Locals warn that it’s closed on weekends, but during the week, it’s a peaceful green pocket where you can sit and relax without a crowd.

3. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (19th arrondissement)

One of Paris’s most distinctive parks, Buttes-Chaumont is big and rugged, with dramatic hills and sweeping views. It’s not empty by any means, but there’s space to spread out.

On a sunny day, it’s easier to find a spot here than in most central parks. Some locals call it their go-to for long afternoon picnics with friends.

4. Parc Monceau (8th arrondissement)

A refined 19th-century park with statues, wide gravel paths, and tree-lined lawns. It draws families and office workers from the neighborhood, but you can usually find space along the outer lawns.

Quiet in the mornings, slightly busier in late afternoons.

5. Jardin Ranelagh (16th arrondissement)

A favorite among locals in the west of Paris. The lawns are generous, and the vibe is family-friendly without being loud. There’s a sparkling water fountain, a puppet theater, pony rides on weekends, and wide tree-shaded paths.

It’s just a short walk from La Muette metro and across from La Grande Épicerie if you need supplies.

6. Trocadéro Gardens (16th arrondissement)

Though it’s in the middle of a tourist zone, the large terraces and multiple levels sometimes help spread people out.

Travelers who had a picnic there found it manageable, even with the Eiffel Tower nearby. Early evenings tend to be more relaxed than midday.

7. Avenue de Breteuil (7th arrondissement)

A long green space stretching from Invalides to Sèvres-Lecourbe. It’s not a traditional park, but it’s wide, quiet, and less trafficked than neighboring Champ de Mars.

Great for an impromptu picnic if you’re in the area.

8. Jardin Catherine Labouré (7th arrondissement)

Located behind a convent wall near Rue de Babylone, this little garden feels like a secret. Locals use it, but few others know it exists.

There are grassy areas, fruit trees, and benches scattered throughout. It’s ideal if you want calm without leaving the city.

9. Parc Kellermann (13th arrondissement)

Found near Porte d’Italie, this little-known park has toilets, water fountains, birdlife, and even a small urban farm.

It’s a good choice if you’re staying in the south of Paris or looking to explore lesser-known neighborhoods.

10. Parc Georges Brassens (15th arrondissement)

This neighborhood park features vineyards, rose gardens, and a relaxed local vibe. It’s not empty, but it doesn’t feel rushed.

Weekends bring families, but weekday afternoons are quieter. Some locals prefer it over more central options.

11. Place des Vosges (4th arrondissement)

The Square Louis XIII on Place des Vosges is compact and popular, especially with tourists in the Marais. Still, some visitors mention that they’ve had successful picnics here, especially in the early afternoon or off-season.

Others recommend skipping it in favor of larger green spaces unless you’re staying nearby.

12. Parc André Citroën (15th arrondissement)

Located along the Seine in the far southwest of Paris, this modern park has big lawns, fountains, and a more spacious layout than most others in the city.

There are public toilets, a small café, and very few tourists.

13. Parc Martin Luther King (17th arrondissement)

In the Batignolles district, this modern park is spacious, clean, and rarely crowded compared to more central spots. It has large lawns, shaded walkways, wooden decks, and landscaped zones with water features.

Locals come here to relax, play sports, or picnic near the grassy terraces. Toilets are available, and the whole area feels thoughtfully designed.

It’s not far from the Brochant or Pont Cardinet stations, making it easy to reach.

14. Bois de Boulogne (16th arrondissement, west edge)

A huge wooded park just outside the périphérique. It’s less polished and more natural, with lakes, forest trails, and quiet corners.

Great if you want a long picnic or stroll. Toilets are available near main entrances.

15. Bois de Vincennes (12th arrondissement, east edge)

The eastern twin of Bois de Boulogne. It has wide meadows, lakes, and peaceful wooded areas. Bring your own blanket and food, since facilities vary depending on where you enter.

The northern end near the Château de Vincennes is easiest to reach.

16. Parc de Sceaux (Hauts-de-Seine suburb)

This formal park is south of Paris on the RER B. It features long canals, cherry trees, and grassy areas lined with hedges. It’s a favorite spot in spring during cherry blossom season, but otherwise offers space and beauty year-round.

The closest stop is Croix de Berny (not Parc de Sceaux).

Final Tips

May 1 and other holidays can make any park feel packed. Weekdays are always better, and mornings are slower than afternoons.

Sitting on the grass is totally fine. Most people use a coat, scarf, or sweater if they don’t have a blanket.