Ah those dreamy pictures of the perfect Parisian picnic, wondering how to plan the perfect Parisian picnic? Well, I can’t tell you how excited I was when we booked our first trip to Paris because I could not wait to shop at the markets and put together a lovely picnic. Since then, I’ve been back several times and picnic days are always one of my favorites.
This post will review what to include in your picnic, where to find delicious charcuterie, how to shop for the perfect picnic wine in Paris, and finally, where to enjoy it!
Where to Shop
Since we tend to stay in St-Germain, we always hit up the Raspail Market which is open Tuesdays and Fridays. The market also features a huge organic market on Sunday. We make a morning of our shopping trip. First, we grab a coffee for the walk and then a delicious potato galette for breakfast once we arrive at the market. Don’t skip this galette, you will not be disappointed!
No matter what part of Paris you are in, there certainly does not seem to be a lack of markets to shop.
I am very envious that there is a market almost every day in Paris. Here at home, we have a market every Saturday and only in certain months!
Shopping List
- Fruit
- Fromage (cheese)
- Spreads
- Baguette
- Olives
- Raw vegetables
- Charcuterie
Wine: Chances are that there is a wine shop near the market you are shopping at. If you aren’t great at wine pairing, politely ask for some suggestions that would pair nicely with what you selected to eat. I’ll be honest, my French isn’t great. My recommendation is to learn some basic French and always say good morning or hello when entering a new store of any kind. At the shop we entered, the gentleman not only helped us select our wine but also chilled it for us before we left.
Something sweet: I prefer fruit but there is no lack of sweet pastries and other delicacies to be found!
*Don’t forget to pack a blanket, cups, cutlery, and napkins
Some super creative companies have come up with pre-made picnic baskets. If shopping isn’t your style or you want to get straight down to business, consider purchasing one.
Where to Picnic
So you have the perfect ingredients for your picnic now where should you enjoy them?
I love Jardin du Luxembourg in keeping with the St-Germain vibes. Be sure to picnic in areas that are marked for picnicking as some areas are off-limits. The gardens get quite packed on the weekends during the warmer months so consider a weekday and remember you can always find a market open on the weekdays.
The Champ de Mars is the green space in front of the Eiffel Tower and is a very popular spot.
Along the banks of the Seine
Jardin de Tuileries
Jardin du Palais Royal
Now that you know how to plan the perfect Parisian picnic, enjoy and be sure to check out my recommendations for the best food in Paris. Bon Appétit!
