Where to picnic in Paris this summer without falling into clichés?

Here are the insiders’ favorite Parisian gardens for picnics this summer. Some will surprise you. Others are well-guarded…

Jardin du Luxembourg: classic grandeur and a variety of leisure activities

Created in 1612 by Marie de Médicis, this park embodies Parisian elegance. Its geometric paths, lined with statues, appeal to lovers of tradition. Lawns are forbidden, but there are plenty of benches. The central basin attracts children with its remote-controlled boats.
Summer activities include chess, bridge and puppet theater. The space is vast, but it’s best to come early to avoid the crowds.
Tip: read in the shade near the rose garden. Few think of it.

📍Jardin du Luxembourg, 75006 Paris

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: a natural open-air theater

In the 19th arrondissement, this park breaks with Haussmannian codes. Caves, cliffs and a suspension bridge transform the site into a film set. The view from the Temple de la Sybille is spectacular.
This is a haven for photographers and students in search of inspiration. Its many slopes offer privacy, even in the midst of the crowds.
Tip: avoid the flat areas, which are often crowded. Climb up.

📍Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 75019 Paris

Jardin des Plantes: culture and chlorophyll

This 27-hectare botanical garden is a place to study and stroll. From tropical greenhouses to alpine gardens, everything here invites discovery. You can picnic here between exhibitions or lectures.
The menagerie attracts children and curious adults alike. It’s a space that combines relaxation and knowledge, without pretension.
Opt for the benches near the plant maze. Peace and quiet guaranteed.

📍Jardin des Plantes, 75005 Paris

Parc Monceau: Paris chic and contemplative

This park in the 8th arrondissement exudes a hushed, bourgeois atmosphere. Statues, colonnades and small bridges create a picturesque setting. Here, artists, readers and joggers meet in a peaceful atmosphere. There are few accessible lawns, but plenty of shady areas.
Silence reigns, despite the surrounding urban density.
Amateur musicians come here to play in the late afternoon. Ideal atmosphere.

📍Parc Monceau, 75008 Paris

Jardin des Tuileries: between sculptures and sunshine

Right in the heart of Paris, this historic garden appeals to tourists and locals alike. Created in the 16th century, it links the Louvre to the Concorde. Its sculptures and ponds add a museum-like touch to any picnic. The wide paths make it easy to find a quiet spot.
In summer, the funfair comes to life at the western end of the garden.
Bonus: eat your sandwich between two rides on the merry-go-round.

📍Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris

Parc de Belleville: panoramic views and authenticity

This park remains one of the capital’s most underrated. Located in the 20th arrondissement, it overlooks Paris from a wooded hillside. Its terraced gardens are ideal for long breaks. Families, youth groups, retirees: a true social mix. The 140 vines are a reminder of the neighborhood’s village soul.
Don’t miss the cascading fountain, a rarity in the city.

📍Parc de Belleville, 47 Rue

Parc Montsouris: a taste of the countryside

In the 14th arrondissement, this park offers a truly green escape. Large lawns welcome families and friends for picnics. A man-made lake, swans and century-old trees ensure a bucolic atmosphere. The RER runs through the park, but without the noise.
Free concerts are held here every weekend between May and September.
Perfect for a musical siesta after lunch.

📍Parc Montsouris, 2 Rue Gazan, 75014 Paris

Bagatelle Park: country elegance

This hidden gem in the Bois de Boulogne is reminiscent of a fairytale garden. Created in 1775, it abounds in secret corners and waterfalls. The rose garden attracts enthusiasts from all over the world every year.
It’s the ideal setting for a romantic picnic out of sight. Please note that entrance fees may apply depending on the season.
Tip: come in the morning, as the park is almost empty.

📍Parc Bagatelle – la Roseraie, 42 Rte de Sèvres À Neuilly, 75016 Paris

Parc de Bercy: an unexpected urban green

In the 12th arrondissement, this modern park is built on a former winegrowing site. It combines ponds, lawns, vines and even urban vegetable gardens. Popular with families and Cinémathèque students alike. The space is fluid, designed for gentle movement.
A lively place, but never overcrowded.
Extend your day with a cinema screening a stone’s throw away.

📍Parc de Bercy, 128 Quai de Bercy, 75012 Paris

Jardin du Palais-Royal: discretion and geometry

Just behind the Louvre, this garden remains curiously unknown to tourists. Its arcaded galleries filter out the noise of the city. It’s the perfect setting for a quiet reading or lunch.
Buren’s famous columns attract design enthusiasts.
Not much lawn here, but a unique, soothing atmosphere.

📍Jardin du Palais Royal, 8 Rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris

📍 Explore our secret cafés near these parks on parisselectbook.com.