A perfect way to step away from the chaos and step into the afternoon.
Picture this: you visit Paris in the summertime. It is a sunny, 75-degree day, the surrounding buildings are washed in gold, and the trees are as brilliant green as ever. The light breeze kisses your face as you weave through the stone streets. It is the perfect day for a picnic.
Despite the size of Paris, along with its reputation for the hustle and bustle, you’d be surprised by the serenity one can feel in its center. My sister, Ainsley, and I have found a little picnic is a perfect way to step away from the chaos and step into the afternoon.
With a great deal of practice, we have devised a checklist to create the perfect Parisian picnic.
Step 1: The Food
Regardless of your location, there are boulangeries, or bakeries, on nearly every street. The perfectly-polished displays offer a series of sandwiches, soups, salads, and of course, pastries. It is essential that you purchase (at least) two items. The first of which is your “main” course (I typically go for a baguette sandwich), and the second is something sweet (I always choose a pain au chocolat). My specific recommendation, conveniently located near Ainsley’s apartment, is La Parisienne, in the seventh.
Your next stop is to grab something fresh. Like boulangeries, there are also produce stands lining the streets, overflowing with seasonal fruits and vegetables. Figs are my go-to.
Step 2: The Drinks
For me, caffeine dependence is a way of life. Therefore, I cannot have a perfect picnic without a cup of coffee or tea. Many cafes will offer a takeaway option, so be sure to grab a water and pick up your favorite fun drink.
Step 3: The Location
While you can’t really go wrong with Parisian food and drink, choosing a good location is key. My first recommendation is Invalides. Not only is it easily accessible from the metro, but it allows you to see some beautiful architecture. The large grassy field opens up to a massive building, with a stunning gold dome. This is a popular spot for Parisians, as many locals live in this area. You will often see college students, couples, and families having a picnic of their own, reading a book, or lying on the grass listening to music.
My second recommendation is the Champs de Mars. While this is by no means a top-secret location, it is absolutely one worth visiting. The location provides a direct view of the Eiffel Tower, which is breathtaking at any time of day. Many people gather here at night to watch the tower sparkle, but during the day the crowd is much more sparse, leaving plenty of room to enjoy your picnic.
This experience is so simple, so inexpensive, and yet so exceptional. It can allow you to just enjoy your own company, or take a moment to connect with a friend. I consider my picnic under the Eiffel one of the most special moments of the summer.
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