Picnicking is a timeless way to enjoy the great outdoors, and when you're on vacation, the experience becomes even more magical. Imagine lounging on a blanket surrounded by breathtaking scenery, enjoying fresh air and delicious food in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. Whether you're after sandy beaches, mountain views, or vibrant parks, these top vacation picnic spots around the globe promise to turn your outdoor meal into a memorable experience.
Here are some of the best picnic spots for your next vacation!
1. Central Park, New York City, USA
Why It’s Great: Central Park is one of the most iconic urban parks in the world, and it's the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic amid the hustle and bustle of New York City. With its lush green lawns, tranquil lakes, and winding paths, Central Park offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the city.
Highlights:
You can picnic near the Bethesda Terrace or on the Great Lawn, which is a spacious open area perfect for gatherings.
If you're up for it, rent a rowboat on the lake or visit the Central Park Zoo.
There's an abundance of food vendors if you don't want to pack your own lunch, but bringing a basket with sandwiches, fruit, and drinks is always a great option.
2. Jardin des Tuileries, Paris, France
Why It’s Great: Paris is known for its romantic ambiance, and the Jardin des Tuileries, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, offers the perfect setting for a chic French picnic. With its manicured gardens, tranquil fountains, and stunning sculptures, it's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Highlights:
The formal gardens provide the perfect backdrop for a picnic while watching Parisians enjoy their leisure time.
Bring a bottle of wine, some cheese, baguettes, and macarons for an authentic Parisian picnic experience.
Don’t forget to stroll through the beautiful gardens or relax by the fountains after your meal.
3. Stanley Park, Vancouver, Canada
Why It’s Great: Stanley Park is a vast urban park that boasts incredible views of the city, mountains, and ocean. It's a natural paradise, offering plenty of green space, beaches, and scenic spots where you can lay down a blanket and enjoy a meal.
Highlights:
Picnic at the Brockton Point, which offers stunning views of the North Shore Mountains, or near the Seawall for a picture-perfect waterfront view.
Stanley Park has numerous walking and biking trails, a totem pole display, and the famous Vancouver Aquarium to explore after your picnic.
If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike and cycle around the park’s scenic routes.
4. Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, Kyoto, Japan
Why It’s Great: Kyoto, known for its ancient temples, serene gardens, and traditional tea houses, is a fantastic place to experience Japanese culture and nature. The Kyoto Imperial Palace Park offers a peaceful escape with beautifully manicured gardens, perfect for a picnic.
Highlights:
The expansive park has multiple picturesque picnic areas, including those near ponds and lush greenery.
You can explore the park's beautiful gardens and enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring or the vibrant autumn leaves.
Pair your picnic with traditional Japanese snacks, such as onigiri (rice balls) and matcha sweets.
5. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London, UK
Why It’s Great: The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Spanning 326 acres, it offers a wide variety of landscapes, from tropical glasshouses to lush meadows and serene lakes, making it an ideal place for a picnic in nature.
Highlights:
Picnic near the famous Palm House or in one of the many quiet corners of the park surrounded by exotic plants and flowers.
Take a stroll through the treetop walkway, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the gardens from above.
Don’t forget to visit the Kew Palace, a charming historic building located within the gardens.
6. Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Why It’s Great: Bondi Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Australia and offers the perfect combination of sun, surf, and a relaxed picnic atmosphere. With its golden sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant vibe, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Highlights:
Pack your picnic basket with fresh seafood or Australian snacks like lamingtons, Vegemite sandwiches, and fruit.
After your picnic, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters or walk along the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal trail.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere with street performers, cafés, and ice cream vendors along the beach.
7. Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
Why It’s Great: Table Mountain offers one of the most breathtaking picnic settings in the world. You can take a cable car to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Cape Town, the surrounding ocean, and the rugged mountains.
Highlights:
Set up your picnic at the top of Table Mountain and soak in the awe-inspiring views while you dine.
Explore the many hiking trails that wind around the mountain before or after your picnic.
The nearby Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is another excellent spot for a peaceful outdoor meal, surrounded by indigenous plants and wildlife.
8. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Why It’s Great: For an unforgettable picnic experience, why not dine amidst the stunning beauty of Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscape? Picnicking here provides a chance to experience nature in its purest form.
Highlights:
Enjoy your meal surrounded by the dramatic caldera and spot elephants, zebras, and other wildlife in the distance.
Pack light, non-perishable food that’s easy to eat on safari, such as wraps, dried fruits, and nuts.
Don’t forget your camera – the scenery here is truly unique, and you’ll want to capture the moment.
9. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Why It’s Great: Lake Bled, with its emerald-green waters and picturesque setting, is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. The fairytale-like island with its charming church makes this spot perfect for a peaceful picnic.
Highlights:
Set up a picnic by the lake’s shores or on one of the many grassy areas with views of the iconic Bled Castle perched high above.
You can rent a traditional pletna boat to reach Bled Island and enjoy a picnic on this scenic spot.
After your picnic, indulge in the famous Bled cream cake, a local delicacy.
10. Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Why It’s Great: Banff National Park, with its towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife, is a paradise for nature lovers. This stunning park offers countless opportunities to enjoy a picnic while surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
Highlights:
Picnic by the serene Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, where you can enjoy views of snow-capped peaks and vibrant blue waters.
For a more adventurous picnic, hike up to one of the park’s many scenic lookouts and enjoy your meal with a view.
There are also plenty of wildlife sightings, including elk, bears, and bighorn sheep, adding a touch of excitement to your picnic experience.
Picnic in Paradise
Whether you're lounging in a city park, soaking up the sun on a beach, or surrounded by mountains, these picnic spots offer some of the most beautiful and unique settings for a meal outdoors. The combination of nature, food, and good company makes these places perfect for creating lasting memories while on vacation. Next time you’re planning a getaway, consider packing a picnic and enjoying the world’s most picturesque settings.
Which of these spots would you love to visit for a picnic? Let us know in the comments!
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