Visiting Paris with family, because the City of Light is also a magical destination for families. Its iconic landmarks, lush parks, and fun activities make it an ideal playground for children. Get ready to create unforgettable memories while exploring the French capital as a family.
Whether your children are passionate about history, art, or thrills, Paris has plenty of spots suitable for all ages. From interactive museums to amusement parks and quirky walks, every neighborhood holds surprises. To avoid long lines, discover our custom itineraries.
In this article, we offer over 60 ideas for visiting Paris with family. From must-sees to hidden gems, you’ll find plenty to amaze both kids and adults. Ready to embark on a Parisian adventure? Follow the guide!
For a stress-free stay, also check out our practical tips. They’ll help you organize your trip with ease.
Visiting Paris with family: Must-see spots for kids
Paris is packed with magical places for children. Here’s a selection of spots that will delight the whole family.
The Eiffel Tower is a classic. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views. Kids love the transparent elevators and stairs. Bring binoculars to spot landmarks.
The Louvre Museum offers tailored routes. Look for the Mona Lisa or Egyptian sarcophagi. Child-friendly audio guides make the visit fun. Plan breaks in the inner courtyards.
The Jardin d’Acclimatation is a family paradise. Rides, animals, and varied attractions will delight kids. Located in the Bois de Boulogne, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day. Also discover the gardens of Versailles, just as enchanting.
The Luxembourg Gardens are perfect for a relaxing break. Little ones can sail toy boats or play in dedicated play areas. The Guignol puppet shows will captivate the youngest visitors.
The Parc de la Villette blends science and entertainment. The Géode showcases immersive 3D films, while the green spaces are perfect for picnics. The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie offers interactive exhibitions, and the Cité des Enfants, designed for ages 2–12, sparks curiosity. Fun experiences and scientific discoveries guaranteed.
Don’t miss the Musée en Herbe. This children-friendly art museum features creative workshops, with temporary exhibitions that are always surprising and accessible.
For a unique experience, visit the Catacombs of Paris. Kids love the mysterious stories. Book in advance to skip the lines. Discover the legends of the Catacombs here.
Finally, a boat tour on the Seine offers a fresh perspective on Paris. Kids enjoy the fun commentary and city lights—perfect for a family evening.
In winter, the Tuileries Christmas Market delights both young and old. Ice skating, rides, and fairy-tale decorations create a magical atmosphere. All the info to visit here.
To make the most of your visit, check out our custom itineraries. They’ll help you save time and fully enjoy every moment.
Book tickets for the Eiffel Tower (various options + combos)
Book tickets for the Louvre Museum (various options + combos)
Visiting Paris with Family: Letting Off Steam Outdoors in Parks and Playgrounds
Paris is brimming with green spaces perfect for children. These spots feature playgrounds, lawns, and outdoor activities—ideal for a relaxing family break.
The Luxembourg Garden is a must-see. Its vintage merry-go-rounds, sailboats, and playgrounds will delight little ones. Parents can unwind on the iconic green chairs.
The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers breathtaking scenery. Cliffs, caves, and suspension bridges spark the imagination. A large playground is also set up here.
For a festive touch, the Tuileries Garden features seasonal attractions. In winter, its Christmas market delights families. In summer, games and fountains bring the park to life. Discover its events here.
The Parc de la Villette blends modernity and entertainment. Its themed gardens and the Cité des Enfants (Children’s City) spark curiosity. The green spaces are vast and well-maintained, and family events are often held here.
For a wilder vibe, the Bois de Vincennes is perfect. Its floral park, lake, and free zoo make it a versatile destination. Kids love the pony rides. Ideal for a full day outdoors without leaving the city.
Need an optimized route to skip the queues? Check out our guide on custom itineraries in Paris.
These parks also offer picnic spots. Pack a snack and enjoy Parisian landscapes. A nature break is essential during a family stay.
Kid-Friendly Museums: Learning Through Fun
Paris is packed with museums that turn art and history into playful adventures. Children love these places where learning is synonymous with fun. Here’s a selection of the best museums to captivate both kids and adults.
The Musée en Herbe (Sprouting Museum) is a must. Its interactive exhibits are designed for ages 3–12. Kids touch, play, and explore art freely—a sensory experience that sparks their curiosity.
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (City of Science and Industry) is a paradise for young scientists. With the Cité des Enfants (Children’s City), kids aged 2–12 experiment with physics, biology, and technology. Hands-on activities make learning feel like play.
The Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle captivates with its dinosaur skeletons and taxidermy animals. The Gallery of Evolution and the Great Gallery for Children will amaze the whole family. They discover biodiversity as if in a giant picture book.
The Museum of Magic delights with its illusions and quirky objects. Children watch magic shows and uncover the secrets of magicians. A journey into a world of wonder.
Finally, the Musée des Arts et Métiers immerses children in the history of inventions. They see planes, vintage cars, and even Foucault’s pendulum. A visit that inspires future inventors.
Step into the magical world of the Musée Grévin, a place where history and fantasy meet. This one-of-a-kind museum will enchant both young and old. Children will love discovering their favorite heroes in three dimensions.
To plan your visit stress-free, check out our custom itineraries for Paris. These museums make learning joyful and unforgettable.
Paris Family Fun Pass (Group savings: Paris Zoological Park + Musée Grévin + Gallery of Evolution)
Book tickets for the Musée des Arts et Métiers and Foucault’s Pendulum
Exploring Paris with Kids: Thrilling Days at Theme Parks and Leisure Attractions
Paris and its surroundings are packed with theme parks for unforgettable days out. Treat your children to thrills and unforgettable memories. Here are the best spots for family fun.
Disneyland Paris is the king of theme parks. With its two parks (Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios), it enchants both young and old. Meet Mickey, explore fantastical worlds, and enjoy dazzling shows. Book your tickets in advance to avoid queues. A tip: plan a full day to see everything.
Parc Astérix plunges your children into the world of the Gauls. Roller coasters, shows, and lively villages await them. Don’t miss the water attractions in summer. The park also offers dedicated areas for toddlers. A perfect blend of adventure and French culture.
France Miniature offers a tour of France in miniature. Children love discovering French landmarks in a reduced format. Ideal for an educational and fun visit.
Mer de Sable features equestrian shows and attractions in a desert setting. A unique experience less than an hour from Paris. Perfect for nature lovers.
Jardin d’Acclimatation combines nature and leisure. Located in the Bois de Boulogne, this park offers rides, games, and even a petting farm. Ideal for a relaxing break after a cultural visit. Prices are affordable, and entry is free for children under 3.
In winter, the Tuileries Christmas Market transforms the garden into a festive paradise. Rides, an ice rink, and magical decorations await visitors.
Need advice to organize your stay? Check out our guide "A Stress-Free Stay in Paris".
These parks guarantee laughter and shared moments. Prepare your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line!
For a variety of activities, check out our guide Custom Itineraries in Paris. You’ll find tips to optimize your visits. Ready to experience thrills as a family?
And if you’re looking for nature breaks, these 10 Parisian parks are perfect for recharging. Follow the guide!
Visiting Paris as a family also means discovering cultural and original activities to spark curiosity
Paris is brimming with activities that turn learning into an adventure. Give your children unique experiences to spark their imagination.
Discover The Atelier des Lumières. This magical place immerses visitors in artistic worlds through stunning projections. Children love these visual and sound spectacles—a fun way to discover Van Gogh or Klimt.
Explore The Musée en Herbe. Designed for little ones, it offers interactive exhibitions. Children touch, play, and create—perfect for awakening their artistic curiosity from age 3.
For a touch of history, visit The Conciergerie. This medieval monument fascinates children. They imagine the lives of prisoners like Marie Antoinette. Child-friendly audio guides make the visit captivating.
The Planetarium at Cité des Sciences amazes young astronauts. Under a giant dome, they travel among the stars. Special sessions designed for children make astronomy accessible.
Finally, don’t miss the workshops at Gaîté Lyrique. This place offers creative digital activities. Children code, draw, or invent stories—a modern way to learn while having fun.
Dive into history with storytelling tours. Passionate guides recount Paris like a fairy tale. Children listen, spellbound, to the city’s legends—a unforgettable experience for the whole family.
For a mysterious twist, visit Paris Catacombs. An underground journey where bones and stories captivate children. Book ahead for the bravest explorers!
Finally, take part in a calligraphy or illumination workshop. These hands-on activities introduce children to medieval art. They leave with their creations, proud and inspired.
These activities turn Paris into a giant classroom. Your children will leave with unforgettable memories and new knowledge. For more ideas, check out our custom itineraries to skip the lines. Prepare your family visit stress-free!
Book your Atelier des Lumières tickets (+ Combos)
Book your Cité des Sciences Planetarium tickets (Combined with Cité des Sciences entry)
Unusual walks: discovering Paris differently as a family
Paris is full of secret routes that turn a simple stroll into an adventure. Forget the beaten paths and explore offbeat locations. Your children will love these outings away from the crowds.
Start with the covered passages in the 3rd arrondissement. These 19th-century galleries hide vintage shops and mysterious inner courtyards. The Haut-Marais has several, perfect for a family treasure hunt.
Discover the Coulée Verte René-Dumont. This former railway turned into a suspended walkway offers a unique view of Paris. Ideal for a bike ride or a picnic break. Children can run freely here, far from traffic.
Explore the Petite Ceinture. This abandoned railway line is a playground for the imagination. Its graffiti and wild vegetation make it look like a film set. Be aware that some sections are off-limits: stick to the permitted areas.
Next, go underground with the Paris Catacombs. This labyrinth of tunnels fascinates children aged 10 and up. Book in advance to avoid queues. Discover the legends and secret entrances before your visit.
Visit the Jardin d’Agronomie Tropicale. This exotic park features colonial pavilions and rare plants. A guaranteed change of scenery, just a stone’s throw from the Bois de Vincennes. Perfect for a family adventure day.
For an artistic touch, follow the mural frescoes in the 13th arrondissement. This open-air museum showcases giant, colorful artworks. Children love spotting the hidden details in these urban paintings.
Dive into the world of Parisian canals. A cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin reveals a lesser-known side of Paris. The locks fascinate little ones. For a unique experience, board near the Jaurès or République metro stations. End with a walk along the Canal de l’Ourcq. Less crowded than the Canal Saint-Martin, this route offers green spaces and lively barges. Perfect for an impromptu picnic.
These walks turn Paris into a playground and exploration ground. Bring a notebook so your children can sketch their discoveries. A fun way to create unique memories.
Special experiences for children: unforgettable memories
Paris is packed with unique activities to captivate children. Give them magical moments they’ll remember forever.
Discover the creative workshops at Musée en Herbe. Little artists paint like Monet or Picasso here. A fun way to learn about art. For more inspiration, explore the Impressionist masters.
Also check out l’Atelier des Lumières. This immersive space plunges children into animated artistic worlds. Walls come alive with colors and music. A sensory experience that delights all ages.
Embark on a cruise on Paris’s canals. Boats glide along hidden riverbanks. Kids love spotting barges and bridges. Get our tips for a successful outing.
Go on a treasure hunt in the Paris Catacombs. Kids love solving riddles among the bones. A mix of adventure and history. Plan your visit to avoid long lines.
Watch a puppet show at the Jardin du Luxembourg. Guignol has been making children and adults laugh for generations. A Parisian tradition not to be missed.
Spend a night in an unusual hotel. Some offer themed rooms, like cabins or trains. An experience like no other.
Take part in a French cooking workshop. Kids learn to make crêpes or macarons. A tasty souvenir to take home. Also discover French table manners for a perfect meal.
For a fairytale touch, don’t miss the Christmas markets. The stalls sparkle, and the scent of cinnamon fills the air. Discover the Tuileries Market, a must-visit winter experience.
These moments turn a simple trip into an unforgettable adventure. In Paris, every day can become a story to tell.
Where to stay in Paris with family? Family-friendly hotels and accommodations
Choosing a family-friendly stay in Paris makes your visit easier. Opt for hotels with spacious rooms or apartments. Central neighborhoods like Le Marais or Montmartre are ideal. They offer nearby activities for children.
Family hotels often provide extra beds or suites. Some even include play areas or kids’ menus. The Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel is an excellent choice. It features connecting rooms and a swimming pool.
Residences like Citadines offer fully equipped kitchens. Perfect for preparing meals tailored to little ones. The La Défense district is also convenient. It’s well-connected and quieter in the evenings.
For a unique experience, try a themed hotel. The Disneyland Hotel or Hôtel Paradis will delight children. Consider Airbnb rentals too. They provide more space and a “home away from home” feel.
Prioritize neighborhoods close to tourist sites. Montmartre, Le Marais, or Saint-Germain-des-Prés are perfect. They’re packed with parks and child-friendly museums. For visit ideas, check our guide Visiting Paris the 1st time.
Need help planning your stay? Check our guide "Séjour à Paris sans perdre son temps". You’ll find tips to skip the lines and make the most of your visits.
Finally, opt for accommodations close to public transport. The Paris metro is convenient, but with children, it's best to limit travel time. Neighborhoods like the 3rd arrondissement (Le Haut-Marais) combine charm and convenience. Staying near train stations makes day trips easier. The Gare du Nord (and especially the entire RER Line A) serves Disneyland Paris (free shuttle buses—with ticket purchase—are also available from 5 locations in Paris). The Gare Saint-Lazare (L Line – Versailles Rive Droite station), Gare Montparnasse (N or U Lines – Versailles Chantiers station), and RER C (Versailles Château Rive Gauche station—the closest, just 10 minutes from the Château) all lead to Versailles. To plan your visit, read our article Versailles Tour.
Reservations for visiting Versailles
Book to visit the Palace of Versailles, with or without transport from Paris
Book transport by coach from Paris to the Palace of Versailles without entry
Book a tour to visit the Palace of Versailles combined with Monet’s Gardens in Giverny
Book to visit the Gardens and Park, the Trianon Estate with Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet at Versailles
Book to visit the Palace of Versailles + Seine River cruise (Discounted price)
Finally, check the services offered. An included breakfast or airport shuttle saves hassle. Establishments labeled “Famille Plus” ensure a family-friendly welcome. Enjoy Paris with peace of mind!
Practical tips for a successful family stay
Visiting Paris as a family requires a bit of planning. Here are our tips to avoid stress and make the most of your stay.
Opt for public transport. The metro and buses are convenient, but avoid rush hour. Children love the Batobus trips along the Seine. A fun way to get around.
Book Batobus tickets (Highly recommended and fun: unlimited access on the Seine Hop-on Hop-off boat)
Plan regular breaks. Little feet tire quickly. Alternate visits with relaxation time in parks or kid-friendly cafés. The Luxembourg Garden or the Tuileries are perfect.
Book your tickets in advance. Queues can be long, especially at museums and attractions. Choose early morning or late afternoon slots. Check out our guide to organize your first visit to Paris.
Pack snacks for meals. Parisian restaurants welcome children, but check opening hours. Bring snacks to avoid meltdowns. Also pack a change of clothes for the little ones. Discover our table etiquette tips for stress-free dining.
Adjust your pace. Limit visits to 2 or 3 per day. Choose interactive activities to keep them engaged. Creative workshops or treasure hunts are ideal.
Finally, check for special events. Christmas or school holidays turn Paris into a family paradise. Don’t miss the Christmas markets for magical memories.
Go for short visits. Museums like the Musée en Herbe or the Cité des Sciences captivate children. Book online to save time. Check out our custom itineraries to optimize your days.
Have a backup plan for rainy days. Museums, play centers, or cinemas are great alternatives. Kids also love the creative workshops offered in some cultural venues.
Finally, involve your children in the preparation. Show them photos of the places you’ll visit. This will spark their curiosity and make the trip even more magical.