Pique-Nique Your Way Through Paris
Exam week is here and the weather cannot make up its mind. Why not wipe the stress away with a picnic in Paris. Gather your friends, a good book, wireless speaker, strawberries, some good wine — and get out there.
Paris is considered one of the most romantic cities in the world, and what is more romantic than an outdoor picnic? Everyone knows about the Champ de Mars. Go farther afield to discover Paris with some wine in hand — what could be better at this time of the year? Here are some tips on great Parisian picnic spots.
Place des Vosges
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The oldest square in Paris, dating back to 1612, just might spark your interest for your next picnic hangout. Not only is it the oldest square, but arguably the most beautiful as well. Victor Hugo thought the same when settling down here, and many other famous people as well. Take some time on the grass next to the fountains and soak up the sun and the history. Located in the 4th arrondissement between Métro stations Saint-Paul and Chemin Vert, there are many ways to get there.
Square des Batignolles
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Nestled in the Batignolles neighborhood, the most whimsical of places awaits your pique-nique. With ponds, ducks, green rolling hills, and willow trees, it's as if this gem in Paris comes straight from a Rapunzel movie. The atmosphere is usually family-oriented and calm, so those looking for a tranquille afternoon, look no further. To get the Square des Batignolles, get off at the Métro stop Brochant.
Buttes Chaumont
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Located in the north-east corner of Paris, Buttes Chaumont Park attracts a young a vibrant crowd. This picnic destination is recommended for the students who want to meet new friends and be a little loud. The many times I've gone to Buttes Chaumont, I meet new people and, by the end of the afternoon, we are all singing and playing guitar outside. Another advantage of heading to the 19th for a picnic is there is lots of space. Spreading out is actually possible (unlike in other smaller parks and squares in Paris). Get to one of the most lively picnic places head to one of the many bus stops which arrive quite close.
Square du Vert-Galant
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This square is arguably one of the most romantic spots to have a picnic in Paris. Located on Ile de la Cité, this small park has amazing views of Paris. To watch the Bateaux Mouches pass along the Seine and the sunset fall with a glass of rosé in your hand, head to metro stop Pont Neuf and take the bridge to the island. Be sure to bring a blanket because the sides of the island are more concrete than grass, and everyone deserves to be comfy during a pique-nique.
Parc de la Turlure
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For an amazing view of Sacré Coeur and space from the tribes of tourists, head here. Also known as Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet has a vibe of authentic Parisians, often artists of some form and young couples who live in the 18th arrondissement. The best part for me about Parc de la Turlure is the locality of the visitors, it is almost as if it is a hidden treasure chest in Paris. This park will often be filled with sounds of musicians practising on their acoustic guitars for the current night's set list for a bar at Pigalle mixed with new families playing football and enjoying the sun and older men arguing about pétanque points. Leaving this picnic spot you will feel like a local. To get there, head behind Sacré Coeur to Rue de la Bonne, and have a very bonne time.
Bonus Location: Bois de Boulogne and Vincennes
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Located just on the western outskirts of Paris, Bois de Boulogne can give picnic lovers the peace they are looking for. With a huge park, many Parisians head out the Bois de Boulogne for space and the calm. The vibe of this park ranges from kids playing volleyball to young students drinking and enjoying the sun. The best part is the little pond with an amazing view of the sunset. To get your peace you need from Paris cramped spaces, head to Avenue Henri Martin. You'll need to walk a bit from the RER station, but it is completely worth it.
