Champ de Mars – One of Paris’ best places to enjoy a relaxing picnic

Positioned within the 7th arrondissement of the city and within easy reach of many of our Paris holiday apartments, the Champ de Mars is a huge public park which offers the perfect setting for a peaceful picnic in the Parisian sunshine.

Popular with locals and tourists alike, this scenic, green open space, which also boasts a superb view of Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower, is certainly worthy of visit. Located upon the banks of the stunning River Seine, just behind the Eiffel Tower, you will find the magnificent Champ de Mars, one of Paris’ famous public parks. Spread out over approximately 60 acres, this delightful area is brimming with picturesque gardens, charming ponds and several playgrounds, making it the ideal place in which to enjoy an afternoon of rest and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

The Champ de Mars dates back to the 16th century, when it was originally used as a market field to grow a variety of fruit and vegetables. During the 18th century, the landscape was transformed into a training ground for the École Militaire, a military school which can be found at the far end of the park. It was due to this transformation that the

Champ de Mars was given its title – Field of Mars, named after the Roman God of War. The École Militaire is an attraction in itself and showcases some truly striking architecture. Towards the end of the 18th century, the park became a popular venue for festivals and celebrations and also hosted several of the city’s World Exhibitions. The Champ de Mars is where Paris’ main Bastille Day celebrations take place, annually on the 14th July, and is where spectators are entertained with an array of activities including a spectacular fireworks show in the evening. In more recent times, the park has also featured in the well-known James Bond film ‘A View to a Kill’.

Amidst the green, open spaces and beautiful tree lined pathways, you will find the remarkable monument known as the Wall for Peace. Inspired by the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, the incredible landmark was designed by the artist Clara Halter and built by the architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte in the year 2000. Made mostly of glass, the wall features the word ‘Peace’ in 32 different languages and 18 alphabets. Visitors are also invited to leave their own personal messages within the cracks of the wall.

The Champ de Mars is an attraction which is highly recommended whilst visiting the wonderful city of Paris and provides visitors with the perfect place to enjoy a much loved picnic in the sunshine. For those who prefer someone else to provide lunch, there is a small cafe within the park which offers a selection of food and drink. Quite possibly though, one of the main attractions of the Champ de Mars is its breath-taking views of the Eiffel Tower, a sight which is certainly not to be missed.