Take your PICnic: Traditions from Around the World
Food has long been more than just sustenance - it’s a powerful connector to culture, memory and identity. It can stir emotion, spark curiosity and often become the reason people choose to travel. Local cuisine offers a delicious way to dive into a destination’s story, with every bite revealing something about its traditions and way of life. It’s no surprise that 42%* of travelers state they are motivated to travel to experience a place’s local food culture and cuisine. With International Picnic Day taking place on June 18, there’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate this global love of food in one of the most authentic ways possible: picnicking. We are showcasing mouthwatering dishes from around the world alongside local traditions unique to each destination. So pack your basket and discover how food, nature and culture come together to create the ultimate picnic experience - wherever you lay your blanket.
Nagoya, Japan
Renowned for its cherry blossom season between late March to early April, but maintaining its charm all year round, Nagoya is a city blending the old and new. Locals often gather in parks to celebrate Hanami, the Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers, picnicking under the elegant sakura trees and sharing bento boxes filled with homemade or locally sourced dishes. Travelers can also experience tradition with attractions such as the Eat Like A Local Tour in Nagoya, sampling an array of delicious foods, including hitsumabushi, grilled eel over Japanese steamed rice, and miso nikomi, udon noodle soup, washed down with some fine sake. Nagoya boasts several scenic spots ideal for a traditional picnic, including the peaceful Tsurama Park with its expansive lawns or the idyllic grounds of Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most revered Shinto shrines, a tranquil setting that blends spiritual and natural beauty. With its luscious food culture and blooms, this picturesque city invites travelers to embrace outdoor dining at its most magical time of year.
Where to stay: Set within the heart of Nagoya, SAMURAI HOUSE is a quaint and traditional hotel providing guests with a taste of Japanese living. With stunning views of the city centre, a fridge to store those local foodie finds in advance and free bike hire, there is no better place to set up shop ahead of exploring the nearby gardens and parks for a lovely picnic experience.
Salta, Argentina
Regarded as one of the most attractive cities in Northwest Argentina, Salta deserves its nickname Salta la Linda (Salta the beautiful). Surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges, the city's past makes it a melting pot of architectural influences as well as cuisine. Mix those with its historic traditions and Salta offers a richly rewarding destination for travelers and food aficionados alike. Known for its trademark empanadas salteñas, rich tamales and locally sourced wines, visitors can anticipate a mouth-watering selection of authentic delicacies that strike right at the essence of the region. Visitors can also follow the Spanish influence with an afternoon merienda (snack) such as parrilla grilled meats, humitas or steamed corn cakes, all easily packed up and taken on a picnic. And visitors won't be short of places to enjoy them, starting with a cable car ride to the top of St Bernardo's Hill or a day trip to Los Cardones National Park. With picnicking as a Christmas tradition here, visitors can also look forward to al fresco dining under warm southern hemisphere summer skies.
Where to stay: Haus Apart Hotel is the perfect location for picnic lovers. Located a short drive away from Salta’s city centre, this property is kitted out with a designated picnic area, sun terrace for lounging and comes with fully equipped and spacious kitchens where guests can prepare their al fresco foods. And after a day out and about, guests can take a relaxing dip in the outdoor swimming pool to cool off.
Turku, Finland
Renowned as the oldest city in Finland, visitors will discover there is nothing outdated about Turku. This quaint city is full of charm with a busy arts and cultural life as well as a thriving restaurant scene. Food is important here, especially in the summer when days average around 15-18 hours of sunlight. Locals and visitors alike head outside to embrace the city’s strong picnic tradition, especially along the majestic Aura River, where grassy banks and leafy paths offer inviting spots to lay down a blanket. Kupitta Park is another popular destination with its duck ponds and expansive greenery while those seeking a panoramic view with their meal can try Vartiovuori Park, which offers a picnic spot overlooking the city. Finnish food is central to the experience and Turun Kauppahalli (a market hall) provides the perfect place to stock up with specialties like Karelian pasties, traditional rye bread and artisanal cheeses, all easily packed for an alfresco feast. To round off the experience, travelers can enjoy a game of kubb, a popular and traditional game that mixes chess and bowling. With its relaxed ambience, warm culture and abundance of outdoor attractions, Turku welcomes visitors with Finnish tradition, nature and cuisine.
Where to stay: After a busy day exploring the local markets, the beachfront Aamuranta can be an oasis for travelers looking for rest and relaxation. Make the most of this property and sample the local delicacies, on the terrace, or enjoy a game of kubb in the spacious garden.
Darwin, Australia
The largest city in the Northern Territory and one of the most culturally diverse in the country, Darwin is a dynamic destination where picnic traditions capture the laidback spirit of the area. As local Picnic Day comes round on the first Monday of August each year, the city’s residents embrace an opportunity to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. Travelers are spoilt for choice for places to put down a blanket, from a coastal picnic on Mindil Beach’s golden sands with its sparkling ocean views to gathering in the magnificent George Brown Botanic Gardens, surrounded by flourishing plants and tranquil ponds. The city’s multicultural heritage enriches its picnic scene, providing a rich variety of dishes such as barramundi, kangaroo sausages and native bush foods including wattleseed bread and quandong. For an Aussie barbie-picnic experience, travelers can embark on the Cape Adieu Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise where they can enjoy fresh Northern Territory seafood with a Darwin Harbour sunset.
Where to stay: Set in the heart of Darwin, Palms City Resort is surrounded by tropical gardens. Featuring bungalow-style accommodations with private balconies overlooking the vibrant greenery and a refreshing pool encircled by palm trees, this resort combines convenience and recreation. Just a short stroll from Bicentennial Park and the lively Darwin Waterfront Precinct, it's the ideal spot to picnic, unwind and enjoy the outdoor life.
Fethiye, Turkey
Lying on Turkey’s southwest coastline, Fethiye presents a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Picnicking in Turkey has been a tradition since the early Ottoman Empire and locals frequently spread rugs on the ground and host a full feast of flatbreads, salads, dips, meatballs and more. These al fresco get-togethers are an expression of community, where friends and family come together to enjoy traditional dishes such as gözleme, köfte and a variety of fresh mezze. With an abundance of outdoor spaces, Fethiye is ideal for such occasions. Breathtaking beaches, like at Ölüdeniz, provide a perfect backdrop while those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle can find secluded hideaways in the hills and forests nearby, including Butterfly Valley with its lush greenery and quiet ambiance. Here, visitors can enjoy ticking off the number of butterfly species they discover to complete the magical natural picture. For those craving a dose of adrenaline, Fethiye also offers an unforgettable paragliding experience over Ölüdeniz where travelers can soar above the turquoise coastline. Once back on solid ground, visitors can unwind with a leisurely picnic by the sea, letting the rush of adventure give way to the calm waves and savor the flavors of a traditional Turkish spread.
Where to stay: For travelers looking to combine coastal relaxation and outdoor adventures, Yacht Classic Hotel is a sophisticated retreat along Fethiye’s waterfront. Guests can unwind by the refreshing outdoor pool, savor Mediterranean cuisine at Mori Restaurant or sample the delicious Turkish wine selection at the Skyfall Bar - all while taking in panoramic views of the marina. With the lively centre of Fethiye and historical sites like the Lycian tombs a short walk away, visitors can enjoy a range of activities to indulge from the luxury and comfort of their hotel.
*Research was commissioned by Tripeden.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2025. The sample comprised 32,106 respondents across 32 markets surveyed in January 2025. USA N=2,000, Canada N=800, Spain N=800, Italy N=800, France N=1800, UK N=1800, Germany N=1800, Netherlands N=800, Denmark N=500, Sweden N=500, Croatia N=501, Switzerland N=800, Belgium N=800, Ireland N=504, Austria N=500, Portugal N=800, Mexico N=1,800, Colombia N=800, Brazil N=1,800, Argentina N=800, India N=1,800, China N=800, Hong Kong N=500, Thailand N=800, Singapore N=800, Taiwan N=500, Vietnam N=800, South Korea N=800, Japan N=1,800, UAE N=500, Australia N=1,800, New Zealand N=500.