LeVar Thomas
Whether you’re into sweeping mountain vistas, lush city parks, or quiet corners by the sea, International Picnic Day on June 18, or any sunny day, is the perfect excuse to pause and enjoy the simple pleasure of eating outside.
We believe the most scenic places to picnic are not only visually stunning but soul-soothing. From coastal cliffs to alpine lakes, these picnic spots are designed to slow you down, wake up your senses, and make travel memories that last longer than any souvenir.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Italy’s rugged Riviera is already a postcard, but imagine enjoying your prosciutto and melon while perched above the sea. In Cinque Terre, the winding hiking trails between villages like Vernazza and Corniglia open up to cliffside clearings that feel like they were made for a midday picnic.
With pastel-colored homes stacked above the sea and boats bobbing below, your view will steal the show. Be sure to pick up local Ligurian specialties—like focaccia slathered in pesto—from a market before you ascend the trails. Bonus: the Mediterranean breeze makes even hot days feel inviting.
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
For a picnic that feels like a dream sequence, Banff delivers. This slice of Canadian Rockies magic offers one of the most dramatic picnic experiences on earth. Settle in by Lake Louise or the lesser-known Bow Lake, where glacial waters glow turquoise and peaks rise like sentinels.
It’s easy to feel small—in the best way possible—when you’re surrounded by this kind of grandeur. Keep an eye out for elk and mountain goats, and pack warm layers no matter the season. Banff proves that even a thermos of soup can feel gourmet when the setting is this spectacular.
Central Park, New York City, USA
Urban picnics hit differently—especially in Central Park. Right in the heart of Manhattan, this green escape is dotted with meadows, lakes, and shady nooks that turn your bagel or baguette into a moment of Zen.
Sheep Meadow offers big skies and skyline views, while The Ramble provides tucked-away tranquility. Come for the people-watching, stay for the vibe. Need more NYC inspiration? Don’t miss our New York City travel guide packed with places to stroll, snack, and recharge.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
If dramatic coastlines are your thing, the Cliffs of Moher will take your breath away. Rising 700 feet above the Atlantic, these cliffs are a soul-stirring setting for a rustic picnic. Wind is almost guaranteed, so bring a blanket you don’t mind chasing.
Fresh Irish brown bread, sharp cheddar, and smoked salmon are all you need to make this moment complete. The walk along the cliff trail offers quieter spots away from crowds, where sea birds glide beneath you and the vastness of nature is front and center.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo, Japan
In the heart of Tokyo’s kinetic energy, Shinjuku Gyoen offers a peaceful retreat perfect for a contemplative picnic. This meticulously manicured park blends traditional Japanese, English, and French garden styles with wide open lawns and dreamy walking paths.
It’s especially magical during cherry blossom season in spring, but lovely year-round. Bento boxes with sushi, rice balls, or tempura snacks make for easy eating, and you’ll find designated picnic areas ideal for a relaxing midday break.
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, USA
With over 1,000 acres of forests, fields, and lakes, Golden Gate Park is San Francisco’s answer to Central Park—and arguably more diverse in landscape. You’ll find serene picnic spots near Stow Lake or among the redwoods in the park’s western corners.
Fog rolls in and out like a soft curtain, giving the park a moody charm. Want a touch of culture with your sandwich? The park is home to museums, botanical gardens, and a Japanese tea garden.
Lake Kawaguchi, Japan
Located in the Fuji Five Lakes region, Lake Kawaguchi is one of the best spots to gaze at Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji while enjoying a peaceful picnic. The view of the mountain reflected in the lake is especially stunning during the spring cherry blossoms or the fiery hues of autumn.
While the lake is surrounded by quaint cafés and guesthouses, you can find plenty of quiet nooks along the northern shore. Pick up local snacks like onigiri, mochi, or even Mt. Fuji-shaped cookies from a konbini and take in one of the world’s most serene views.
Hyde Park, London, England
You can’t talk picnics without mentioning London’s Hyde Park. Spanning 350 acres, this royal park is home to tree-lined paths, swan-filled ponds, and open meadows that feel lifted from a Jane Austen novel.
Locals flock here on sunny days with picnic baskets, while visitors find magic in renting a rowboat on the Serpentine. Pack a classic British spread: cucumber sandwiches, sausage rolls, and a bottle of elderflower pressé. Hyde Park offers that rare urban vibe where you can be in a bustling city and still feel like you’ve escaped it all.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA
Imagine munching on trail mix while overlooking a surreal landscape of red rock spires. That’s the vibe at Bryce Canyon, where geological wonders known as hoodoos turn your picnic into a scene straight out of Mars.
There are designated picnic areas throughout the park, including Sunset Point and Inspiration Point, offering unforgettable views. Early morning or late afternoon light gives the rocks a magical glow, so time your picnic for golden hour if you can. You’ll want your camera—and your sense of wonder—fully charged.
Ubud Rice Terraces, Bali, Indonesia
Lush, layered, and otherworldly, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces near Ubud are a feast for the eyes. Winding pathways through the emerald-green paddies reveal shaded platforms perfect for a peaceful picnic. It’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the terraces in the cool morning light.
Balinese fruit, sticky rice, and fresh coconut water make for a refreshing, low-fuss picnic. These terraces aren’t just scenic—they’re spiritual, offering a moment of connection to the land and its rhythms.
Tips for a Picture-Perfect Scenic Picnic
Wherever your picnic dreams take you, a few essentials go a long way:
- Bring reusable containers and utensils to keep your picnic eco-friendly.
- Dress for the climate—even warm destinations can surprise you with sudden wind or rain.
- Don’t forget sun protection, insect repellent, and a lightweight blanket or mat.
- Always check local rules about where picnicking is allowed. Respect the space and leave it better than you found it.
- Add a personal touch, like a journal, speaker, or sketchbook. The best part of scenic picnics is how they create space for stillness.
Why It’s About More Than the View
The best travel moments aren’t just big-ticket attractions, they’re the small, intentional pauses. When you find one of the most scenic places to picnic, you’re not just stopping for a snack. You’re choosing to be present.
Whether you’re picnicking solo with a book, with family by your side, or making a toast with friends, it’s about embracing the magic of your surroundings and letting travel slow you down—in all the right ways.
