The Best Picnic Spots in Paris, According to Locals

As striking as Sacré-Cœur is, a midday visit can be spoiled by the hordes of tourists and street performers. The secret? Head to the rear of the basilica for a picnic. “You’ll find an amazing view of Paris in the Sacré-Cœur Gardens,” says Villa Junot house manager Florian Pialoux. “On the Paul Albert/Utrillo side there’s much more shade and, best of all, far fewer crowds. Just watch your step as the ground is sloped.”

Pro Tip: Pialoux suggests strolling along Rue Caulaincourt to buy “one of the best baguettes in the city” at Maison Lardeux, Chez Virginie for cheese and wine, and Arnaud Nicolas for “exquisite charcuterie” and Arnaud Larher for “masterful pastries and chocolate.”

River Seine Sailing

Photo: Getty Images

“I love picnicking on boats along the Seine,” says Fabre-Lanvin, who notes it can be as simple or as fancy as you like. “When I’m feeling low-key but still want an unforgettable experience, I hop on a one-hour cruise with Vedettes du Pont Neuf for a very reasonable €10. I bring my favorite picnic and a chilled bottle of rosé. Both are welcome on board.” The route passes the Institut de France, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Île Saint-Louis. “For times when I’m in the mood to splurge, together with friends we rent a private barge from Green River,” she says. You can order from nearby Les Maquereaux or bring your own food. “A friend once arrived with a tarte au citron from La Tour d’Argent’s pastry shop across the island. We ate it with vintage silver dessert forks I had packed. Beauty, after all, lives in the small details.”