Planning a family trip to Paris? Absolutely, oui! While the City of Light is one of the most popular destinations globally, navigating it with children can be a fun adventure if you know what to expect. A handy tip: steer clear of museums on Wednesdays (that’s when French kids are off school) and during school holidays, as places tend to be quite packed. But don’t worry; there’s an abundance of delightful activities that will captivate both you and your little explorers. Here’s a list of our top picks for family-friendly fun in Paris.
Where to Stay
You’ll want a cozy, family-friendly place to call home while you explore Paris. If you’re keen on collecting hotel points for a future trip sans kids, check out the Moxy Bastille, which radiates urban charm. Prefer a boutique experience? The luxurious Le Dokhan’s awaits, featuring an elevator adorned with Louis Vuitton! For an eclectic vibe, the 25Hours Terminus Nord is your spot—don’t miss their bikes for fun rides around the city. If hotels aren’t your style and you crave more space, look into Airbnb for fantastic options like a chic apartment in Montmartre or a trendy loft in the Marais (which rhymes with hurray!).
Getting Around
Forget about driving! Embrace the Parisian way: walk, stroll, and when your feet can’t take any more, hop on the Metro for a quick ride.
Unforgettable Experiences in Paris
In your pre-kid days, you may have enjoyed leisurely market strolls, but let’s face it, children thrive on action. Set aside the tech gadgets and dive into some unique Parisian experiences. From croissant-making classes (yes, really!) to electric scooter tours, there’s plenty to keep the family entertained.
- Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) – No trip is complete without a visit to this iconic landmark. Depending on your kids’ ages, you can either brave the stairs or take the elevator. For older kids, the 600+ stairs to the top provide an exhilarating experience—just don’t forget to grab an interactive booklet along the way! For the littles under 6, skip the ascent and enjoy a picnic at Champ de Mars. They’ll love the playground, carousel, and, of course, ice cream, or “les glaciers” in French!
- Cité des Sciences – This is a family hotspot, especially on chilly or rainy days! The Cité des Enfants features hands-on activities for kids aged 2 to 12. Don’t forget to purchase your tickets online or at the next time slot! Afterward, check out the free aquarium downstairs. On nice days, stroll along the canal to find a playground with zip lines and trampolines—plus a carousel!
- Stroll the Champs-Élysées – Start at the Arc de Triomphe and walk as far as your legs can take you! Older kids will enjoy the climb (or elevator) to the top for stunning views. Treat yourselves to some famous macarons from Ladurée along the way. Need a bathroom break? McDonald’s is your friend—clean and free!
- Tuileries Garden and Musée de l’Orangerie – The Louvre is marvelous, but may overwhelm little ones. Instead, visit the Musée de l’Orangerie, home to Monet’s beautiful water lilies and usually less crowded. Afterward, relax in the Tuileries, where you can enjoy ice cream from Angelina and let the kids run wild.
- Explore the Catacombs – For older kids, a visit to the eerie Catacombs can be a thrilling experience. Just remember, it’s dark and not stroller-friendly! Consider a stroll through one of the city’s many cemeteries, like Cimetiere du Pere Lachaise, where notable figures like Oscar Wilde rest.
- Notre Dame – While younger kids may not fully appreciate Notre Dame, they’ll love the Sunday morning bird market at Square Louis-Lepine. Afterward, you can catch a glimpse of Sunday mass at this historic site. (Check with your hotel for current visitation info, as Notre Dame is currently closed.)
- Sacre-Coeur – This area is touristy but lively! Kids will enjoy the fun atmosphere—climb the 270 steps or hop on the little train. Don’t forget to grab a delicious croissant at Gontran Cherrier, a must-visit spot.
- Jardins and Playgrounds – Paris is dotted with lovely gardens and playgrounds. Our favorites include Jardin du Luxembourg, where you can find a fenced playground, and Parc Monceau, perfect for relaxing and letting kids play.
- Bus Tours and Seine River Cruise – Embrace your inner tourist! Hop on an L’Open bus tour and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Seine for breathtaking views of the city.
- Bois de Boulogne – Think of this as Paris’ version of Central Park! From the Parc de Bagatelle’s hidden gardens to rowboating on the Lac Inferieur, there’s plenty to keep families entertained. The Jardin d’Acclimatation, a mini-amusement park and zoo, is also a hit, especially in the summer with its splash pad.
Packing Tips for Paris
To nail the Parisian look, think chic and minimalist. Start with fitted tank tops that can be layered, add a cashmere sweater for those unpredictable weather changes, and pack a simple sundress for effortless day looks. Comfortable jeans and a stylish pair of walking sandals will have you ready for any outing. And don’t forget a durable tote bag for all your essentials while exploring the city.
For more insights on navigating your journey, you can check out this helpful resource. Additionally, for those interested in family planning, here’s an excellent guide. If you’re curious about pregnancy methods, this Wikipedia page is worth a look!
In summary, Paris offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that ensure both kids and parents will have a memorable time exploring this magical city. From iconic sights to delightful experiences, the City of Light is brimming with adventures waiting to be discovered.