“Bonjour, mes amis!” Exploring Paris with kids is an adventure full of family-friendly sights, unique activities, and unforgettable memories! Whether you’re sightseeing, enjoying Parisian treats, or looking for local playgrounds, this guide will help make your Paris family vacation a success. So, grab your berets, and let’s dive into planning your family trip to the City of Light.
In this guide to Paris with Kids
- Why Paris is Perfect for Families
- Where to Stay in Paris with Kids: Top Neighborhoods & Family-Friendly Hotels
- Best Attractions for Families in Paris
- Engaging Experiences in Paris for Kids
- Day Trips from Paris: Family-Friendly Excursions
- Where to Eat in Paris with Kids
- Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris with Kids
- Looking for more family adventures?
Why Paris is Perfect for Families
With its incredible mix of world-famous attractions, parks, and kid-friendly dining, Paris has something for every family. Here’s everything you need to know about what to do in Paris with kids, from activities to neighborhoods and family hotels.
Where to Stay in Paris with Kids: Top Neighborhoods & Family-Friendly Hotels
Choosing the right area makes all the difference! Here are some ideal areas for a Paris family vacation:
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris with Kids
- Marais: Safe, lively, and close to the Seine, it’s ideal for family walks and sightseeing. This is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Paris!
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Known for its vibrant cafes and bookshops, it’s close to museums and the Luxembourg Gardens.
- Montmartre: Offers charm and stunning city views, perfect for adventurous families. Home to one of the most photogenic streets in Paris and Sacre Coeur.
- 1st Arrondissement: This district is close to major attractions and offers pedestrian-friendly streets that are easy to navigate with children. It’s also home to the charming Rue Montorgueil, a street filled with bakeries, chocolatiers, cheese shops, and other food vendors. We stayed here on our last visit and found it to be very well located to everything we wanted to do in Paris.
Recommended Family-Friendly Hotels in Paris
- Le Bristol Paris: Luxurious yet welcoming for kids with special amenities like kid-sized robes and activities.
- Hôtel de la Porte Dorée: Budget-friendly with spacious family rooms and a location near Bois de Vincennes park.
- Novotel Paris Les Halles: Centrally located with spacious suites, family packages, and a dedicated kids’ play area.
- Luxury Apartments: I often prefer a suite or apartment where the kids can sleep separately. That isn’t easy to find in a hotel in Paris, so an apartment is your best bet if you’re looking for space. A couple highly-rated options: Marias or this family-friendly apartment in the 1st.
Pro tip: Get in line behind the locals and buy one of the glorious pastries from Stohrer. The almond croissant was particularly noteworthy!
Best Attractions for Families in Paris
Eiffel Tower: A Must Whening Visiting Paris with Kids
No trip to Paris with kids is complete with a visit to the Eiffel tower. Plan to visit early, pack a picnic for Champs de Mars, and let the kids explore nearby playgrounds. We took the stairs down, which was doable, but I would not recommend taking them up unless you seek a workout.
Pro-tip: Head to the Champ-de-Mars, Trocadéro, or Pont de Bir-Hakeim for a view of the Eiffel tower’s twinkling light show every night five minutes after the hour.
Exploring Paris’s Art Museums with Kids
There’s more to exploring art in Paris with kids than the Louvre’s Mona Lisa. While most will want to see it to check it off their bucket list, it’s tinier than you’re expecting and very crowded. From Monet’s Water Lilies to Van Gogh’s Starry night, your kids will find much to love in Paris’s museum.
What’s the secret to making it fun and not a slog? A kid-friendly tour will make all the difference. We adored our family tour of the Louvre, which turned the day into a competition for my girls. Our guide had our girls posing like the Venus de Milo and drawing their own works of art on her tablet. The kids were so busy they forgot to complain about hours spent walking around a museum. My daughters even later claimed it was one of their favorite parts of Paris.
With its colorful Impressionist masterpieces, from artists ike Degas, and Monet, Musée d’Orsay provides a lively art experience. In addition, the art is arguably more approachable for kids than the more famous Louvre’s collection. As with the Louvre, I suggest taking a guided family-friendly tour. Also consider Centre Pompidou if you are looking to enjoy contemporary art.
Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: Interactive Science Fun for Kids
Paris’s Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is a must for families with curious kids! Located in Parc de la Villette, this massive science museum offers hands-on exhibits and interactive zones for kids of all ages. In particular, the Cité des Enfants is designed for children 2-7 years (Note, the area for kids 5-12 is closed for renovations until June 2025). Kids can explore activities that cover topics like water play, sound, light, and the animal kingdom and see a mesmerizing show at the planetarium.
Relax in Paris’s Luxurious Gardens
One of the best spots to relax in Paris with kids, Luxembourg Gardens features sailboat rentals, pony rides, an engaging puppet theater, and fairy tale beauty. Of course, it’s also a perfect spot for a picnic on a pretty day! Or, escape the hustle and bustle at Jardin des Tuileries where the kids can play tag among statues and fountains.
Pro tip: Before hitting Tuileries, grab a jambon-beurre baguette or one of the other options from the blackboard at the excellent Le Petit Vendôme.
Montmartre: A Whimsical Village on a Hill
Montmartre, with its cobbled streets and bohemian vibe, is like stepping into a storybook. Climb the winding stairs to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop the hill. The view of Paris from here is like a postcard – rooftops, chimneys, and the Seine River snaking through the city.
Long ago, you might have found Degas or Toulouse-Lautrec painting in Montmartre, but today, you’re more likely to see caricature artists and vendors selling souvenirs. That doesn’t make the area any less lovely, though. Wow the kids by snapping a shot of the famous sinking house. Montmartre is a must-see when visiting Paris with kids!
Hungry? Grab a sandwich on a crusty baguette and some pastries (because, Paris) at Pain Pain. Then, take the easy way down and use the funicular to get back down the mountain.
Pro tip: Don’t miss snapping some photos on the lovely Rue de l’Abreuvoir, often called one of the most beautiful streets in Paris.
One to Skip – The Catacombs
We went underground to the creepy catacombs where the bones of the city’s dead are artfully arranged. While unsuitable for younger kids, it was okay for my elementary-aged kids. That said, it was a bit dull once the initial shock wore off. But if you’re intot the macabre, this is your place!
Engaging Experiences in Paris for Kids
Seine River Cruise
Take a Seine cruise to see the highlights of Paris from the water. Several boat companies cater to families with shorter, kid-friendly cruises.
Family Cooking Classes
Cooking classes offer hands-on fun where kids can try making macarons or croissants. It’s a tasty and interactive way to experience French culture together! Indeed, a cooking class is always a highlight of our family vacations. The kids are engaged, and I get to eat something tasty. It’s win-win!
Jardin d’Acclimatation: Amusement Park Meets Nature
For a unique mix of rides, gardens, and animals, Jardin d’Acclimatation offers an exciting day out for kids and parents alike.
Day Trips from Paris: Family-Friendly Excursions
Disneyland Paris: Magic Just Outside the City
Just a 45-minute train or car ride from Paris, Disneyland Paris is a dream for families with kids. Two parks (Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park) offer magical attractions, character meet-and-greets, and classic rides. It’s an easy day trip that feels like a mini-vacation, ideal for little ones who love Disney characters and thrilling adventures. Get tickets here.
Tips: Arrive early to make the most of your day, and consider booking tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
Versailles: Royalty and Gardens
A trip to Versailles offers a fascinating mix of history, art, and expansive gardens that are perfect for family picnics and explorations. Kids will love the grandeur of the Hall of Mirrors and the vast gardens, where they can run freely and even rent rowboats. The Estate of Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet also give children a glimpse into Marie Antoinette’s private world. This family-friendly tour of Versaille gets you skip-the-line tickets and more engaged children.
Tip: Try to visit on a day with the Fountain Show to enjoy Versailles’s fountains in full splendor!
Giverny: Monet’s Garden Wonderland
Giverny, the former home of Claude Monet, is a short train ride from Paris and offers a peaceful day immersed in nature. Kids who enjoy art will love seeing Monet’s colorful garden and lily pond, which inspired some of his most famous paintings. It’s especially magical in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
Tip: Giverny is quieter than Versailles or Disneyland, making it a relaxed choice for families looking to unwind.
Where to Eat in Paris with Kids
Parisian food is a delight for all ages! Here are some places your kids (and you!) will love:
Pro-tip: Restaurants in Paris typically serve lunch from 12-2 and dinner at many places doesn’t even start until 8 pm. Consider more casual spots like bouillons if you want to eat outside of those times.
Crêperies Galore: Sweet and Savory Treats
Indulge in classic French crêpes! Kids adore sweet Nutella-filled crêpes, while parents can enjoy savory options. At Breizh Café, indulge in traditional Breton crêpes with gourmet flair. Kids can stick to classic sweet crêpes, while parents try adventurous savory galettes made with high-quality ingredients. With multiple locations across the city, including in Le Marais, it’s a cozy and convenient spot perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack break during your explorations.
Family-Friendly Bouillons
Navigating Parisian dining with kids can feel overwhelming. There are so many excellent restaurants, but I didn’t want my kids to turn their noses up at the food or disturb other diners with their boisterous behavior. But bouillons come to the rescue—a dining concept that offers excellent food with a relaxed vibe perfect for families. But what exactly is a Bouillon?
Originating as working-class restaurants in Paris, Bouillons have recently experienced a resurgence in popularity, attracting both locals and tourists alike. These eateries offer hearty, traditional French cuisine at affordable prices, served in a bustling atmosphere reminiscent of old-world Paris.
One standout spot is Bouillon Pigalle, where you can savor mouthwatering steak frites or a classic plate of escargot while soaking in the lively ambiance. Plus, with its earlier opening hours, you can enjoy a delicious meal at a more kid-friendly time, avoiding the late-night rush typical of many Parisian restaurants. While Bouillon Julien boasts a stunning dining room, our experience found the food lacking compared to Bouillon Pigalle.
Berthillon Ice Cream
No Paris family vacation is complete without a stop at Berthillon for their famous ice cream. Take a scenic walk on Île Saint-Louis and treat the family!
Carette: Where Chocolate Dreams Come True
After your tower adventure, stroll to Carette, a charming patisserie nearby. Their hot chocolate is decadent, and your kids’ eyes will just about pop out of their heads when they see the dessert case. The cozy ambiance and sweet treats will recharge your family for the next adventure.
Chez Hanna: Middle Eastern Favorites in Le Marais
Chez Hanna offers a welcoming atmosphere and kid-approved options like falafel, hummus, and fresh pita. Located in the heart of the Marais, this restaurant is ideal for families looking to explore flavors beyond traditional French fare. Their vibrant platters make for a fun, shared meal!
Angelina: A Parisian Hot Chocolate Haven
A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Angelina for their famously rich hot chocolate and delicious pastries. Kids and adults alike will love the experience of this elegant tea room, where you can savor sweet treats in a historic setting near the Tuileries Garden.
A Paris Food Tour – The Best Way to Try It All
Paris is a food lover’s paradise, and there’s no need to sacrifice your enjoyment because you have kids in tow. Join a food tour like the one we enjoyed from Devour Tours that took us through the winding streets Marais with stops for varied delights, including croissants, French onion soup, and macarons.
Even the pickiest kids will love it, and hey, if they don’t finish something, it’s more for you! Food tours are my favorite way to quickly and thoroughly sample the best local eats. We’ve done food tours in both Marais and the Latin Quarter, which were both heavenly.
Build a Picnic to Enjoy in Paris with Kids
Instead of dining at restaurants, why not shop like locals do? Visit boulangeries (bread bakeries), patisseries (pastry shops), and fromageries (cheese shops) and select the perfect picnic spread. Then, eat on a park bench in one of Paris’s beautiful gardens – perhaps Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens. This core memory experience combines food, nature, and family time. My daughter even discovered her passion for French butter and still talks about it to this day.
Want to recreate our epic Parisian picnic shopping spree? Head to Boulevard Saint-Germain, and a single block has everything you’ll need: Fromagerie Laurent Dubois for cheese, La Maison de Isabelle for a baguette or croissants, and Charcuterie St Germain for meats. It felt impossibly European doing our shopping this way and was one of the most memorable meals of our trip.
Pro tip: It’s not the same, but Wegman’s is the only store I’ve found in my area that sells French butter. Get yourself some, stat, if you’ve never tried it.
Best of Paris with Kids: Age-Appropriate Activities
Toddlers (1-3 Years)
- Jardin des Tuileries: Wide open spaces, playgrounds, and a calm environment.
- Aquarium de Paris: Engaging fish displays and a toddler-friendly size.
- Luxembourg Gardens: Little ones love the toy sailboats and dedicated playground.
- Patisseries: When all else fails, it’s time for a pastry break!
Young Kids (4-7 Years)
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: Interactive exhibits at Cité des Enfants.
- Jardin d’Acclimatation: Amusement rides, animals, and lots of greenery.
- Eiffel Tower: Toddlers enjoy the view and nearby playground.
- Disneyland Paris: This age will go nuts for a day of Disney magic.
- Patisseries: Let’s get real, everyone wants pastries in Paris.
Older Kids (8-12 Years)
- Musée d’Orsay: Impressionist art and workshops for young learners.
- Cooking Class: Kids this age love to get hands-on, and what could be more fun than making your own macarons?
- Seine River Cruise: Great for sightseeing and giving feet a rest. Book your tour.
- Patisseries: But, of course!
Teens (13+ Years)
- Versailles Day Trip: Historic architecture and expansive gardens.
- Louvre Museum: A treasure trove of art, including the Mona Lisa.
- Montmartre: Cool street art, independent boutiques, and Sacré-Cœur views.
- Patisseries: Yes, even when you’re too cool for school, you will enjoy an eclair or pain au chocolate
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris with Kids
Parting Words: Savor Every Croissant Crumb
Paris with kids is a dream! Undoubtedly your whole family will enjoy the city’s Iconic sites and amazing food. À la prochaine!
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Updated November 2024
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