Visiting Paris with kids might sound daunting. But trust me—this city is packed with fun, food, and history that will thrill your whole family. From strolling charming streets to tasting incredible treats, Paris has something magical for everyone.
In this guide, I’ll share practical tips and personal stories to help you enjoy a Paris family vacation without the usual stress. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’ll find ideas to create joyful memories and explore like a local. So, grab your berets, and let’s dive into planning your family trip to the City of Light.
In this guide you will find:
- Why Paris is Perfect for Families
- Getting Around Paris with Kids and Teens
- Where to Stay in Paris with Kids
- The Best Attractions to Visit in Paris with Kids
- Engaging Experiences in Paris for Kids
- Fun Day Trips from Paris with Kids
- Where to Eat in Paris with Kids (That Adults Will Love Too)
- Best of Paris with Kids: Age-Appropriate Activities
- Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris with Kids
- Favorite Family-Friendly Tours in Paris
- Plan Your Trip to Paris with Kids
- Pin for Later: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris with Kids
- Looking for More Family Adventures?
Why Paris is Perfect for Families
Paris isn’t just about fancy museums or grown-up things. It’s full of parks, kid-friendly museums, and tasty treats that will keep visitors of all ages happy.
- Beautiful gardens where kids can run and play
- Museums with interactive exhibits and hands-on fun
- Streets filled with colorful markets and street performers
- Cafés serving fresh pastries and hot chocolate that kids adore
I’ve traveled here with my family many times, and each trip gets easier and more fun. The city really welcomes families—it’s just about knowing where to go and what to do.
Getting Around Paris with Kids and Teens
Navigating Paris your family can feel overwhelming at first. But here’s a secret: the city’s public transport is super kid-friendly once you know the basics. A little planning goes a long way.
- Metro: Fast and efficient, but avoid rush hours to dodge the crowds. This and walking are my family’s go-tos.
- Buses: Great for sightseeing and less crowded than the metro.
- Walking: Many neighborhoods are perfect for strolls. You’ll spot little shops and cafés on every corner.
- Strollers: Bring a lightweight stroller if you have young kids. Some metro stations don’t have elevators, so be ready to carry it up stairs sometimes.
Paris Metro Tips
- Buy a carnet of 10 tickets or a transit pass to save money.
- Download a Paris transport app before you go, and map your routes to avoid long waits.
- Avoid rush hour if you can—it’s not fun with kids in tow.
Walking in Paris
Paris is a walking city. The key? Break things up. Don’t try to do too much at once, and always have snacks on hand.
Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses
These tourist buses are a solid option for families who want to rest their feet while still seeing the sights. Kids tend to enjoy riding up top, and the narration offers useful context.
Where to Stay in Paris with Kids
Choosing the right area makes all the difference! Here are some ideal areas for a Paris family vacation. Wherever you stay, make sure you’re close to a Metro stop. That will save your feet—and your patience.
Neighborhoods That Work for Families
Where you stay—and where you spend your time—can make a big difference. Some areas are more walkable, while others offer more charm or access to family-friendly spots.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
This Left Bank favorite is full of cafés, patisseries, and lovely boutiques. It’s also near the Luxembourg Gardens, which makes it ideal if you want a calm, stylish base close to green space.
Bonus: You’re within walking distance of the Seine, Notre-Dame, and the Latin Quarter.
The Marais
Trendy but still relaxed, the Marais is packed with narrow streets, falafel shops, and gelato spots. Teens will love the street art and shopping, while parents will appreciate the historic architecture and proximity to museums.
The 7th Arrondissement
If seeing the Eiffel Tower every day sounds magical, stay here. It’s a quiet, upscale neighborhood with wide sidewalks and family-friendly bistros. Just be prepared for slightly higher prices.
Latin Quarter
This student-filled area is energetic and full of life. The vibe may feel a bit chaotic at times, but it’s packed with small streets to explore and affordable food options.
Montmartre
Offers charm and stunning city views, perfect for adventurous families. Home to one of the most photogenic streets in Paris and Sacré-Cœur.
1st Arrondissement
This district is close to major attractions. It also offers pedestrian-friendly streets that are easy to navigate with children. It’s also home to the charming Rue Montorgueil, 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 of highly-rated options: Marais 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!
Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. This article includes affiliate links for which I may receive compensation. All opinions are honest and not influenced by affiliate relationships.
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The Best Attractions to Visit in Paris with Kids
Paris offers a rich mix of sights that appeal to all ages. You don’t have to stick to the classic tourist spots if you want to keep teens engaged and younger kids entertained.
Eiffel Tower: A Paris Icon
A visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must if it’s your first trip to Paris. 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. However, I would recommend taking the elevator up unless you are seeking 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 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 like 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 collection. Book tickets in advance – they will sell out. As with the Louvre, I suggest taking a guided, family-friendly tour. Also, consider Centre Pompidou if you are looking to enjoy contemporary art.
Museums with a Twist for Families
Some Paris museums are surprisingly kid-friendly, offering hands-on exhibits or audio guides geared toward younger visitors.
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: This science museum is a must for families with curious kids! This massive science museum offers hands-on exhibits and interactive zones for kids of all ages. The Cité des Enfants is designed for children 2-7 years old (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. After, wow them with a show at the planetarium.
- Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature: This quirky museum combines art and nature with animal displays that teens find fascinating.
Must-See Parisian Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Paris’s green spaces are perfect for breaks between sightseeing. These parks offer plenty of room to run or relax, plus snacks from nearby vendors.
- Jardin du Luxembourg: With playgrounds, puppet shows, and sailboat rentals on the pond, it’s a great spot to unwind. This is one of my family’s favorite places for a stroll.
- Parc de la Villette: Home to interactive museums, gardens, and outdoor art installations that will spark curiosity.
- Jardin des Tuileries: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy this parks 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. However, 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 for any family trip to Paris!
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.
Notre Dame Cathedral: Finally Open Again!
Notre-Dame Cathedral has reopened to the public as of December 2024, following a five-year restoration after the 2019 fire. Visitors can now admire the restored spire, cleaned stonework, and iconic rose windows. The cathedral is open daily, with free entry; however, timed reservations are recommended due to high demand. Please note that access to the towers is expected to resume in summer 2025.
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
Paris isn’t just for grown-ups sipping wine by the Seine—there’s plenty here to keep kids and teens entertained too. From hands-on food fun to relaxing river cruises and playful parks, the city offers more than museums and monuments. Kids typically prefer more hands-on, immersive experiences to just looking at pretty or historic things. So I like to load up my own family’s itinerary with experiences like these:
Seine River Cruise
Cruising down the Seine is a fun way to see major landmarks without wearing everyone out. The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Louvre all look different from the water. Several companies offer shorter cruises, which are great for families. You can relax, enjoy the breeze, and snap plenty of photos—no walking shoes required.
Family Cooking Classes
Few activities are as fun and delicious as a French cooking class. Kids and teens get to roll up their sleeves and learn how to make croissants, macarons, or even an entire meal. It’s hands-on, low-pressure, and gives everyone a deeper connection to the local food scene. For our family, cooking classes are always a highlight. The kids are focused, having fun, and I get to enjoy the final product. Total win.
Jardin d’Acclimatation
This spot blends an amusement park, gardens, and a mini zoo all in one. There are roller coasters, splash zones, puppet shows, and even boat rides. But it’s not chaotic like bigger theme parks—it’s walkable, beautifully landscaped, and has plenty of shady spots for a break. Great for when you need a more laid-back day without sacrificing fun.
Fun Day Trips from Paris with Kids
Need a break from the city? These day trips offer a change of pace while still keeping the wow factor high.
Disneyland Paris: Magic Just Outside the City
Yes, it’s more compact than the U.S. parks, but that can be a good thing. It’s easier to navigate, and the lines are often shorter—especially on weekdays. It’s a full-day trip, but the direct train from Paris makes it easy.
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. 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
Monet’s house, Giverny, and gardens are like stepping into a painting. The peaceful town is just a short train ride from Paris. Plus, the gardens are incredibly photogenic. This one’s great for a slower-paced day. It’s especially magical in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
Fontainebleau: Castles, Forests & a Royal Escape
Just under an hour from Paris by train, Fontainebleau offers a dreamy combo of history and outdoor fun. The Château de Fontainebleau is a UNESCO-listed palace that kids can actually enjoy. It;s less crowded than Versailles, and packed with swirly staircases, grand halls, and Napoleon-era treasures.
After exploring the château, head into the Forêt de Fontainebleau for a family picnic or a hike. Or blow everyone’s minds and take a ride on a hot air balloon! It’s a fun, low-key adventure that feels a world away from the city—but super easy to reach.
Where to Eat in Paris with Kids (That Adults Will Love Too)
You don’t have to sacrifice good food just because you’re traveling with kids. Paris is full of restaurants that work for everyone. Parisian food is a delight for all ages! Here are some places your kids (and you!) will love:
Simple Wins for Family Meals
- Bakeries: Fresh croissants, pain au chocolat, and baguettes are quick, tasty snacks or breakfast options.
- Crêperies: Sweet or savory, crêpes are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
- Picnic Spots: Grab cheese, fruit, and charcuterie from a market and enjoy a picnic by the Seine or in a park.
Pro-tip: Restaurants in Paris typically serve lunch from 12-2. 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, it’s a cozy and convenient spot perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack break.
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 rowdy behavior. Fortunately, bouillons came to the rescue. It’s 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. Meals are served in a bustling atmosphere reminiscent of old-world Paris.
One standout spot is Bouillon Pigalle. At this hot spot 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.
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!
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!
Angelina: A Parisian Hot Chocolate Haven
A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Angelina to enjoy their famously rich hot chocolate and delicious pastries. The whole family will love this elegant tea room, where you can savor sweet treats in a historic setting near the Tuileries Garden.
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.
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. It 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 One of Paris’s Parks
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. It felt impossibly European doing our shopping this way! In fact, this was one of the most memorable meals of our trip!
- Fromagerie Laurent Dubois for cheese
- La Maison de Isabelle for a baguette or croissants
- Charcuterie St Germain for meats.
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
Favorite Family-Friendly Tours in Paris
The right tour can make your experience unforgettable. Here are some of our favorite tours for families in Paris. View the full list of our recommended Paris tours. If you want help with all of your plans, from the best tours to family-friendly hotels, let’s talk about how I can help. Discover more about working with a travel advisor.
Plan Your Trip to Paris with Kids
- Ready to make your Paris family trip unforgettable? Book one of our favorite tours.
- Get in touch and I’ll help you plan an unforgettable custom Paris itinerary!
- If you have time to extend your stay in France, consider Bordeaux, just a short 2-hour TGV train ride away.
Pin for Later: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris with Kids
Looking for More Family Adventures?
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- Your Guide to the Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. This article includes affiliate links for which I may receive compensation. All opinions are honest and not influenced by affiliate relationships.
Updated May 2025
Thank you for so many practical tips for a family trip.
I don’t have kids but still found this very helpful 🙂
Paris is one of my favorite cities. I love how you incorporate your kids into your adventures. I’m not there yet, but this is helpful to know my traveling won’t stop if I have kids!
One of my most favourite cities in the world 🙂
What a good list, even though I do not have any kids haha
This is a really excellent guide. The information you provided was exactly what I was looking for and made me feel like Paris with little ones was doable and manageable! Thank you for helping me feel less overwhelmed, and more excited!