Picnic Etiquette Rules For A Sophisticated Outdoor Meal In Paris

While many tourists adopt a go-go-go mentality during their trips to France, wiser travelers know that embracing the slow life is better for your cortisol levels and allows you to fully enjoy the moment. And few experiences are quite as romantic and relaxing as a picnic in a Parisian park or another green space in one of Europe's oldest countries. This pastime actually dates back to the 17th century when French aristocrats would enjoy elaborate outdoor meals known as "fêtes champêtres" – garden parties or, more literally, countryside parties. However, picnics are still a popular activity for local families and tourists alike. 

Before assembling your basket, there are a few important etiquette rules for picnicking and how to experience Paris like a Parisian. After all, a picnic in the U.S. is a whole different ballpark. For instance, we've seen picnic-goers drag in entire grill setups — this won't fly in France. 

First, use common sense when choosing a picnic spot. If you don't see anyone sitting in the area, it's probably not the best spot to throw down your picnic blanket because that area might be restricted. Instead, look for signs that read "Pelouse ouvert," which means the grassy area is open for sitting. Although Champ de Mars is the most well-known picnic spot in Paris (due to its proximity to the Eiffel Tower), Parc de Belleville offers some of the best views of the city and is less crowded. Those visiting the Côte d'Azur (the French Riviera) should consider Parc du Mont Boron in Nice for coastal views and shady spots.

We've all been in a gorgeous natural space when someone's loud (and let's be honest, terrible) music disturbs the peace. Although it's okay to listen to music in many parks, keep the volume down and read the room. If no one is playing music, you should probably keep your speaker packed away. Next, in 2023, the French government banned smoking in beaches and public parks. Since the law is new, it's not always enforced. That said, make sure you don't light up, even if you see other people doing it. (And never light a cigarette near children or pregnant women or leave your cigarette butts on the ground.)

Although drinking alcohol is prohibited in many French parks, this rule isn't always enforced. You'll often see people sipping a glass of wine or enjoying a bottle of champagne with their picnic spread. Our advice is to be discrete and, as always, don't overindulge in public spaces. One more prohibited item: pets. Even if your dog is on a leash, most parks in Paris have a no-pet policy. The rules are a little more relaxed in other places across France. For example, many beaches allow dogs during low season and plenty of other parks allow leashed pets.

Finally, don't climb over fences or take shortcuts across plantings. This damages the gardens and simply isn't done in France. Along the same vein, swimming or entering fountains and ponds is against the rules. We also recommend refraining from skipping stones. Although it isn't specifically forbidden in many places, it disturbs the tranquility, and the rocks can hit bystanders or damage marble work.

Before heading to the park, visit a local boulangerie (bakery) and pick up a sandwich, a baguette, or some delectable baked goods — keep in mind, your croissant won't be as tasty if you make this common ordering mistake in France. Next, stop by the grocery store or outdoor market for fresh fruit, nuts, juice, or anything else that strikes your fancy and isn't too messy. Last but certainly not least, pop into a fromagerie (cheese shop) for fresh cheeses. We recommend doing a little research beforehand to make sure your cheeses and fruits have complementary flavor profiles. 

There are a few more general tips that will make your picnic more enjoyable. Number one: Don't forget to pack a picnic blanket, plates, napkins, cutlery, and cups. In addition, if you're sharing a meal with locals, familiarize yourself with this unspoken French food rule tourists should know to avoid coming across as clueless. We also recommend bringing a garbage bag to stow your rubbish and a pillow in case you need a little cushioning. If you're sensitive to the sun or have a healthy fear of skin cancer, consider bringing an umbrella or packing extra sunscreen.

Speaking of packing, don't forget to pack up all of your belongings and put your trash in the proper color-coded garbage receptacles. Yellow cans are for recyclables ranging from paper to plastic, while brown bins are for compostable food scraps. Put glass in the white bins, and anything else goes in the green or grey bins.