Picnicking is one of the most visible summer traditions in Paris, and early fall is not too late to enjoy this pastime; especially with the weather we've been having as of late. Strolling along the banks of the Seine or through the city's picturesque parks and ponts, you will inevitably come across large groups of friends of every age, gathered around a picnic basket, laughing, chatting, eating and drinking. Picnicking is one of best ways to enjoy the Paris gourmet food without breaking the bank.
The Champ de Marsfacing the Eiffel Tower, is a popular picnic spot, and the Pont des Arts, in the 1st arrondissement, is popular among students and international twenty somethings. Arrive early, as it becomes more difficult every minute tofind a spot among the revelers on the bridge, who sit around in groups, eating, drinking, smoking, playing the guitar and singing along.
The banks of the Seine are lively at sunset, those parallel to Quai St. Michel are usually packed with large groups of friends late into the evening, and under the Pont au Double near Notre Dame, the atmosphere is peaceful and romantic. The crowd is diverse and pleasant over on Ile St. Louis, and if you settle in close enough to the Pont Saint Louis, you may be able to enjoy live music with your picnic, as musicians busk for change on the bridge above you.
The Canal St. Martin is hip for a picnic, or just generally hanging around, and once the sun sets, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to continue on to. Parks are also ideal for picnics during the day. I can recommend Butte Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement, the Jardin Luxembourg of course, and the Parc Monceau amongmany others. Just scout around your neighborhood as a park or a green space is never far away in Paris
The best thing about a picnic is that it can be as fancy or casual as you like; as simple or as elaborate as you have the time for. If you're on holiday in Paris, you've got the time to prepare carefully and it is worth it. Everything you need may be found at any of the supermarkets around the city, but who knows when you'll be back in Paris, so it's worth taking advantage of little shops and markets.
You'll be able to smell the fromageries a mile away and there is one or more in every neighborhood. A gorgeous picnic can be made from a stroll through any of the neighborhood markets or market streets and of course the creme de la creme is La Grand Epicerie in the Bon Marche. This is the market to end all markets and you'll get dizzy seeing all of the choices for your picnic here.
Don't forget to stop into a wine shop for a bottle of chilled rose or two, you will be ready to picnic with the best of them. Bon pique-nique.
Doni Belau is the owner and editor of the Girls' Guide to Paris, a travel website and blog written by Parisian residents and insiders covering everything from fashion to culture to foodie faves in the city of light. To know more about Paris gaurmet please visit www.girlsguidetoparis.com
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