family trip paris

7 of the best things to do with kids in Paris

Aug 10, 2023 • 5 min read

These top tips for traveling with children can help you have a happy family vacation in Paris © Imgorthand / Getty Images

Paris  is a fabulous place to travel en famille (as a family), with a host of specially designed activities for kids of all ages, both inside for rainy days as well as out and about in the city.

From the best places to go with kids to top planning tips on accommodations and how to travel around, here is our guide to exploring the French capital with les enfants (children).

Is Paris a good place to travel with kids?

As Europe's most densely populated city, Paris is well practised in catering to kids' – and parents' – needs. There are parks and playgrounds galore , many restaurants have children's menus (though high chairs are less common), plenty of hotels can arrange lits bébé (baby cots) and/or interconnecting rooms, and numerous museums and cultural spaces have specific activities for kids.

Where is best in Paris for kids?

All of Paris' arrondissements (city districts) are well connected but the most central – the 1er arrondissement to the 8e arrondissement – are especially well suited for families to minimize time spent traveling and allow you to pop back to your accommodations for supplies or naps. The 5e (aka the Latin Quarter ) and 6e ( St-Germain ) are ideal for their proximity to the Jardin du Luxembourg, many family-friendly restaurants and hotels, and a wonderful French geography–themed sweet shop, Le Bonbon au Palais .

Best things to do with babies and toddlers

Head to jardin du luxembourg, a park dedicated to children.

Paris' most enchanting park is the 23-hectare, chestnut-shaded Jardin du Luxembourg , which Napoléon dedicated to the city's children. Delightfully old-fashioned activities include prodding 1920s sailboats on its octagonal pond, riding ponies or its carousel, and catching a marionette show at its theater.

Other Parisian parks with puppet shows include Parc Monceau , Parc Montsouris , and, by the Eiffel Tower , Parc du Champ de Mars . Parc de la Villette has futuristic playgrounds and attractions, music venues and museums.

Boat trips on the Seine are fun for all the family

For a memorable overview of the City of Light, a river cruise through Paris' heart is hard to beat. Companies include Bateaux-Mouches , Bateaux Parisiens and the hop-on, hop-off Batobus , as well as Vedettes de Paris , which has hour-long tours tailored specifically to families with children.

Another engaging journey is a canal cruise with Canauxrama from Bastille through an underground section then passing through the locks and swing bridges of Canal St-Martin en route to the Parc de la Villette.

Best things to do with elementary school-aged children

Wander the city's gardens, forests and playgrounds.

The city's botanic gardens, the Jardin des Plantes , contains a small zoo, the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes. At Paris' edges are two rambling forests, Bois de Boulogne in the west, and Bois de Vincennes in the east. Younger kids will adore amusement park Jardin d’Acclimatation  in the Bois de Boulogne, which has 44 individual attractions such as "rafting adventures", "speed rockets" and funfair rides, and is most endearingly reached by taking a mini train from Porte Maillot. Bois de Vicennes is home to the Parc Floral de Paris, with fantastic playground facilities and an open-air concert venue, Paris' largest zoo, the  Parc Zoologique de Paris , and a moated medieval castle, the Château de Vincennes .

Explore the hands-on world-class art and culture museums

Dedicated children's museums include the magic museum, Musée de la Magie , and art museum, Musée en Herbe , with permanent and changing exhibitions, activity sheets, guided tours and workshops. There are also some great hands-on workshops at the exhibition space Palais de Tokyo ; the city's architecture museum, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine ; and the landmark Centre Pompidou modern-art museum and cultural center, which has a 1st-floor space for kids aged two to 10. The city's mightiest museum, the Musée du Louvre , has a dedicated family space called the Studio and an app aimed at children aged 7–11 .

Best things to do with tweens and teens

Visit the city's entertaining science museums.

Science is made entertaining for kids, tweens and teens at the Cité des Sciences in the Parc de la Villette , which includes a planetarium; at the Galerie des Enfants, within the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution , a branch of the natural-history museum, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle at the Jardin des Plantes ; and the Palais de la Découverte  (ages 6 and above), which is at a temporary location at Parc André Citroën while its premises are renovated and redeployed as a Paris 2024 Olympic venue. Europe's oldest science and technology museum, the Musée des Arts et Métiers , has a special audioguide for kids.

Have a magic-filled day at a theme park

This list would not be complete without Disneyland Resort Paris , comprising both Disneyland Park, with all the classic rides, characters, and  pays (lands), and the film- and TV-focused Walt Disney Studios Park .

Further out, 35km (22 miles) north of the city and linked by shuttle bus, is summer-opening Parc Astérix , with shows and thrill-seeking rides for all ages based on the famous comic books.

On a rainy day, head to Cinéaqua or Centre Pompidou

Cinéaqua is a winner with kids for its cinemas screening ocean-related films and not least for its shark-filled aquarium. One of the best cinematic experiences for kids is a self-guided behind-the-scenes tour using sensor technology of iconic 1930s cinema Le Grand Rex, where you can stand behind the big screen and take part in making a film, from recording studios to special effects.

As well as its first-floor space aimed at children aged up to 10, Centre Pompidou has a lower-ground-floor visual, multimedia and performing-arts area for teenagers aged 13 to 16.

Planning tips for visiting Paris with kids

Paris' efficient, inexpensive public transport system whisks you around the city. Children up to four years travel free; under 10s pay half price. On the metro, the front carriage of driverless lines (1 14 and, by the end of 2022, line 4) are fun for kids, while lines with overground sections (2 and 6) provide great views, though stairs to the subterranean stations are extensive and corridors can be long.

Parents with strollers will find it easier to get around by bus. Avoid traveling at peak hours, when all public transport is crammed. Take extra care when crossing roads, as drivers frequently ignore pedestrian crossings and lights.  Kidelio  hires out strollers, car seats and other paraphernalia, with five collection points around the city.

If you're in Paris from October to March, you can catch clowns, trapeze artists and acrobats at the 1852-founded winter circus Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione .

This article was first published May 4, 2021 and updated Aug 10, 2023.

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Kid-Friendly 5 Days in Paris Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: July 10, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » France » Kid-Friendly 5 Days in Paris Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Paris with kids and want a totally do-able itinerary? Keep scrolling to check out my kid-friendly 5 days in Paris itinerary from my last trip to France!

This kid-friendly 5 days in paris itinerary was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to Paris with your family?

We just spent 5 days in Paris and had a blast! Our 8-year-old and 5-year-old loved all of the activities we did. Keep scrolling to see our exact Paris itinerary. Spoiler alert: they want to go back!

You will too once you see how much fun these activities are. All of them are perfect for kids of all ages. And don’t worry – we have tips for traveling with kids included too.

Keep scrolling to find out some awesome things to do for kids in Paris that your whole family will enjoy.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream trip to Paris today!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Paris blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Paris with kids.

Popular Paris Tours/Activities

• Scavenger Hunt at the Musee d’Orsay (my kids voted this the BEST thing they did in Paris)
• Paris Food Tour (We ate SO many yummy treats on our Food Tour)
• Tootbus (this is a kid-friendly hop-on-hop-off bus)
• Eiffel Tower (skip the line and go straight to the top)
• Day Trip to Giverny and Versailles (it’s a great city break)
• Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book and really affordable)

Kid-Friendly Paris Hotels

• Hotel Aiglon (this is a quiet area near Luxembourg Garden, and it’s perfect for families)
• Pullman Paris Eiffel Tower Hotel (there’s a shuttle to Disneyland or Giverny from here)
• Newport Bay Club Resort (this is our favorite place to stay at Disneyland)

5 Days in Paris with Kids

Before I really get into the Paris in 5 days itinerary, I wanted to note that we flew to Paris from Seattle and arrived at 11 am in a heat wave where it was 101 degrees. We spent the first day basically just laying in the hotel soaking up the A/C and recovering from jet lag.

Jet lag hit us pretty hard this trip and we were back at the hotel by around 8 pm every night. We also added a few nights at Disneyland Paris so we actually spent 7 days in Paris. But this is the real itinerary we used in Paris for 5 days.

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Day 1 : Food Tour and Jardin du Luxembourg

Paris food tour in the marais district.

We all know that Paris is famous for its food. And we wanted to know exactly where to go to taste the best croissants. So, we booked this Paris food tour for 10 am on our first full day in Paris.

It’s one of the best food tours we’ve ever done while traveling!

Our guide took us to famous bakeries where we tried flaky croissants, pastries, and world-renowned bread. We did several tastings during our walk but it culminated in a leisurely sit down at a wine bar for wine, cheese, and bread.

While we devoured lots of incredible food, we tried a truffle soft cheese that I’ve literally been dreaming about ever since! Check the latest rates and more information .

Notre Dame de Paris

Our food tour ended fairly close to Notre Dame Cathedral , so we figured we should walk past and take a few photos.

Several years ago, Notre Dame caught on fire and it was incredibly sad. Since then, they have been working on restoring it. The face of the cathedral looked pretty good, but the rest was covered in scaffolding.

It wasn’t open for tours when we were there, but we’ve been inside in the past and it’s pretty amazing!

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Jardin du luxembourg.

One of our favorite memories of visiting Paris with toddlers was playing with the toy boats at Jardin du Luxembourg . It was an activity that our oldest child picked out from a book and it was a huge hit.

So, when we decided to go back to Paris, we made sure to add Jardin du Luxembourg to our Paris itinerary.

We started off renting toy boats and it was super fun! It was only 6 euros for 30 minutes, so we got each kid a boat and we ran around chasing them.

From there, we headed over to the playground where the kids met other kids and played for 2 hours! The playground did cost a few euros to enter, but it was totally worth it.

We meant to hit up the carousel right next to the playground, but it closed a few minutes before we got there. It’s one of the carousels where kids try to grab the ring with a stick.

Dinner at Broadway Caffe

We realized that we were getting hungry for dinner after we left Jardin du Luxembourg, so we hit up Broadway Caffe on our way back to our hotel in Montparnasse.

It’s pretty much American food and Italian food (like Neopolitan pizza). We ordered pizza because it was easy.

We sat outside and they had swings for chairs! This was the main reason we opted to eat here.

Day 2 : Paris Photoshoot and Historical Tour of Paris

Flytographer photoshoot in montmartre.

One of my favorite things to do when traveling with my family is book a photoshoot . That way, I know I’ll get some “nice” photos of myself, my kids, and my husband. Otherwise, I’ll only be in selfies.

This photoshoot had a 6 am start time, which was sort of brutal. But, it meant that we were basically the only people walking around Sacre Couer and Montmartre, which was pretty awesome.

I packed our photoshoot clothes in a special packing cube to make sure everything stayed clean and ready for our photo session.

It was AMAZING and I’m so glad we woke up early to do this! Check out my top Paris family photo tips !

Oh, and we picked Montmartre because we did a photo shoot at the Eiffel Tower 5 years ago and didn’t want to repeat locations.

We always use Flytographer when we travel. They are usually the most affordable photography service we can find. And you can save $25 off your first session .

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy and affordable AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Breakfast at Laduree on the Champs Elysees

If you love macarons, chances are that you have heard of Laduree. They have made their way to the United States in large cities like Los Angeles and New York City. But, they are originally from Paris.

They have several locations around Paris, but if you want to do breakfast or brunch, you’ll want to book at their Champs Elysees location .

I booked our 8:30 am breakfast reservation about a month before our trip and I’m so glad I did because there was a line out the door for walk-ups.

The portion sizes were on the smaller size, but everything tasted and looked beautiful. Since it was a special breakfast, we let the kids order desserts and giant macarons.

And then, we had to stop and pick up some macarons to enjoy later in the day.

Shopping on the Champs Elysees

The Champs Elysees is one of the most famous shopping streets in Paris. Normally, I’d just suggest walking for a bit to window shop because there are some fancy stores.

However, I spotted a Monoprix (sort of like France’s version of Target) and I just had to go in a take a peek. I’m glad I did because I scored a few cute dresses and a sweatshirt to immediately put on because it was a lot colder than I expected!

Our kids also begged us to visit the Disney Store. They did have a few Disney Paris items and a lot of cute merchandise that we did not see at Disneyland Paris. So, I’d say it’s worth a quick stop.

Unexpected Gossip Tour of Paris

We love doing unique tours when we travel. So, when I saw that there was a tour where a woman dressed up in a 1700s costume and walked around Paris spilling the best historical gossip, I couldn’t sign up fast enough!

We booked the 11:30 am tour, which was perfect timing for our family.

Our kids thought the tour was pretty funny and they actually learned a lot of historical facts in a creative way. I love that our tour guide had a mini iPad so she could show exactly what she was talking about.

We learned cool things like how the term “souvenir” was coined and what really happened on Bastille Day.

The tour ended in the courtyard of the Louvre where we learned how someone stole the Mona Lisa. It’s a pretty crazy story! Check the latest rates and more information .

Break and Lunch at Cafe Edgar

Since we had such an early morning, we figured everyone could use a break. So we headed back to our hotel and everyone either took a nap or zoned out on screens for a bit.

Then, we headed next door to our hotel to enjoy lunch at Cafe Edgar. They had a great assortment of French cuisine and tasty drinks.

We also walked around the neighborhood and checked out a local toy shop and bought some macarons.

Paris Tootbus

At this point, it was late afternoon and we were worried that we’d all fall asleep too early since we were still jet lagged. So, we figured we might as well hop on the Tootbus for a tour of Paris .

My husband bought the tickets while we were at our hotel and then we headed to Notre Dame to hop on. Since it was sort of late in the day, we just rode it until they closed and we had to hop off.

It was totally worth it though! We saw the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, and a bunch of other sites. Plus, it was a fun way to orient ourselves to the city. Check the latest rates and more information .

Galeries Lafayette

We got off the Tootbus and realized we were super close to Galeries Lafayette . It’s basically a massive department store, but they have a whole section for food.

We took a peek at their gourmet food level because we were on the hunt for a few items we purchased a few years ago.

But, we also realized that we could pick up a picnic dinner there. We ended up grabbing sandwiches, chips, yogurts, and desserts. We took them to Jardin du Luxembourg to enjoy and then we walked back to the hotel.

Day 3 : Musee d’Orsay and the Eiffel Tower

Scavenger hunt at the musee d’orsay.

After a quick breakfast at our hotel, we headed to the Musee d’Orsay at 10 am to meet up with Caroline for a kid-focused scavenger hunt of the Musee d’Orsay .

We picked the Musee d’Orsay over the Louvre because our family had recently visited a couple of immersive Van Gogh exhibits and I figured our kids would be more familiar with some of the impressionist artists.

This kid-friendly tour surpassed my expectations! Our guide was a former elementary school teacher and she was incredible!

She gave each of our kids a little booklet for the scavenger hunt that included places to draw their own masterpieces and paste in photos of themselves at the museum.

This was a 2-hour tour and our kids were fully engaged the entire time. It was just the right amount of time for them to get a taste of a museum in Paris without getting bored. Check the latest rates and availability .

Eiffel Tower

We ended up taking a TukTuk to the Eiffel Tower from Musee d’Orsay. It was pretty pricey at 25 euro/person, but it was faster and a lot more fun than taking a taxi.

We ate lunch at Brasserie de la Tour Eiffel before heading to the meeting spot for our Eiffel Tower tour. Doing a tour is a great way to visit the Eiffel Tower with kids .

We knew we wanted to go up to the summit level of the Eiffel Tower and we wanted to skip the line. That’s why we booked a tour . It was definitely worth it for our family because there was minimal waiting.

The tour only lasted until the 2nd level and then we went up to the top on our own. It was pretty cool to see the views, but our 5-year-old was pretty toast on the way down. Check the latest rates and more information .

So, we figured a stop at the carousel by the Eiffel Tower was necessary. Our kids ended up riding it 4 times. Plus, we got drinks and ice cream and just took an hour or so to relax.

Dinner at Chez Andres

We actually had 6:30 pm dinner reservations at Chez Andres , but they were able to get us in at 6 pm. We ate here 5 years ago and it was such a memorable experience that we knew we wanted to go back.

The food was incredible and the staff is so friendly and accommodating.

By the time we left at 7:15 pm, there was a massive line. So, it’s definitely worth making a reservation.

Day 4 : Giverny and Versailles

Bus tour of giverny.

Giverny is where the impressionist painter Claude Monet lived with his family and it’s where he painted his famous waterlilies.

My husband and I had a hard time deciding whether we should visit Giverny or Versailles as a Paris day trip , so we found a tour that did both . We weren’t sure how our kids would handle a 10-hour bus tour, but they were troopers.

We did breakfast at our hotel and then met up at a hotel where we hopped aboard the bus. It took about an hour to get to Giverny and the guide narrated almost the entire way. I thought it was fascinating but my kids kept plugging their ears and tried to sleep.

Once we got to Giverny, we had about 2 hours to explore Monet’s house, gardens, and the gift shop. While that sounds like a lot of time, we really needed 3 hours to slow down and enjoy it.

But, it was stunning and we’re all so glad we got to see it!

Lunch in the Countryside

Part of the tour included a stop at a restaurant in the Normandy countryside. The food was fine and the wine was tasty! It was a nice pit stop before heading to Versailles.

Bus Tour to Versailles

Our bus tour went past little villages and where Monet lived for a few years on the drive to Versailles.

Once we arrived at Versailles we had 20 minutes to explore the gardens before meeting up with our group for our timed ticket to the Palace of Versailles .

We only had 1 hour and 45 minutes at Versailles, which is a really short time.

Our kids were pretty exhausted once we got inside the crowded palace, so we ditched the tour group about halfway through and got snacks and drinks, and enjoyed the courtyard.

Even though it was a jam-packed day, I’m still glad we did it this way because we got an intro to both places. Check the latest rates and more information .

We’re pretty sure we’ll be back to Paris in the next few years, so then we can decide if we want to do a full-day trip to either Giverny or Versailles. Read our full post about visiting Versailles with kids .

Dinner at Relais de l’Entrecote

There’s a really cool Parisian restaurant called le “Relais de l’Entrecote” where you can get steak and fries. It’s really the only thing on the menu and they come around and replenish your steak and fries as you eat.

You can get it with sauce or without. And you can let them know if you’d like your steak rare, medium, or well-done.

They have several locations. We did the one in Montparnasse and there was no wait right at opening.

Day 5 : Disneyland Paris

So, technically we moved hotels to stay at the Newport Bay Resort at Disneyland Paris for a couple of days, but you could easily do Disneyland Paris as a day trip . That’s what we did last time and that’s what we’ll do in the future.

Disneyland Paris is similar to Disneyland California but they have several different rides. We focused on the rides that we don’t have in the U.S. but we skipped all the parades. Get Disneyland Paris tickets HERE .

Here’s exactly what we did with a park hopper pass (and the paid Premier Pass) on one day at Disneyland Paris:

• Arrived at Walt Disney Studios for the Magic Morning
• Ratatouille: The Adventure
• Slinky Dog Zig-Zag Spin
• My husband and 8-year-old did Crush’s Coaster with the Premier Pass while my 5-year-old and I did Cars Quatre Roues Rally
• Les Tapis Volants – Flying Carpets Over Agrabah
• Cars Road Trip
• Shopping at Chez Marianne/potty break
• Monsters Inc photo spot
• We headed over to Disneyland Park
• My husband and 8-year-old did Big Thunder Mountain with Premier Pass while my 5-year-old and I did Alice’s Curious Labyrinth
• Peter Pan with Premier Pass (only took 5 minutes)
• Got in line to Meet Mickey (1 hour line)

• Lunch at Pinnochio
• Photo by castle
• Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast with Premier Pass and store
• Star Tours with Premier Pass and store
• Mickey’s Philharmagic
• It started raining so we bought sweatshirts and went pin shopping
• 30-minute Lion King Show (reserved for $15/person)
• Headed back to Walt Disney Studios
• Churros and paella at the Spain stand and pizza at Italy stand
• My 5-year-old and I did the Frozen Show while my husband and 8-year-old did Ratatouille and Crush’s Coaster with the Premier Pass
• Shopping at Walt Disney Studios store
• Headed to Disney Village to shop at World of Disney and Disney Fashion

Tips for Visiting Paris with Kids

Stay near paris attractions you want to visit.

On our first family trip to Paris, we stayed at an Airbnb near the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysees and it was a great location for what we planned on that trip.

For this trip, we stayed at the Hotel Aiglon in Montparnasse specifically because it was a short walk to Jardin du Luxembourg. We liked being in a quieter section of Paris and it was perfect for our family.

But, there are plenty of other places to stay in Paris for families . You’ll definitely want to factor in your accommodations into your trip to Paris budget .

Ask Your Kids What THEY Want to Do

Kids love to be included in planning trips and it makes them more excited about the itinerary. Our kids chose to do the toy boats at Jardin du Luxembourg, the scavenger hunt at Musee d’Orsay, and Disneyland Paris.

These were some of their favorite memories and they loved getting a say in our Paris itinerary.

We asked the kids about visiting other museums, visiting the Arc de Triomphe again, and doing a Seine river cruise but they weren’t interested in any of those suggestions.

It was a good thing we checked because those were on our original itinerary. I’m glad we swapped them for things the kids actually wanted to do.

Giverny vs Versailles

Since we had a hard time choosing between Giverny and Versailles, we did a mega tour that covered both locations. This worked for our family, but if you really want enough time to explore, each one deserves a day trip.

Giverny is perfect for families who love art and are familiar with Claude Monet. You’ll get to be in the place that inspired so many famous pieces of art.

Versailles is great for families who are interested in history and the French monarchy. It’s also one of the most popular day trips from Paris.

Use GPS for Metro Routes and Download Paris Taxi App

One thing we learned quickly in Paris is that taxis can drive in a special lane while Ubers cannot. That means it’s a lot faster to take a taxi. And you can order a taxi via an app.

Honestly, we used taxis a lot more than the Metro this trip to avoid crowds and save our feet from extra walking.

But, the Metro in Paris is really easy to use and it’s the most economical way to get around Paris.

Paris Itinerary with Kids FAQs

Paris is home to some of the coolest carousels, so definitely plan on stopping a few times during your trip. There are also lots of parks with fun playgrounds. I recommend booking a scavenger hunt tour of either the Louvre or the Musee d’Orsay as a fun way to get your kids interested in art. And you can always do a macaron crawl where you try macarons from several bakeries and decide which is your favorite.

You can see as much as you like! Paris is home to some of the best art museums in the world and iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s easy to see a lot of these buildings from a bus tour, but it takes more time if you’d like to stop and explore. You can plan on visiting 2 attractions/activities each day or spend more time at one and leave room to rest/relax.

Our first family trip to Paris was when our youngest was 6 months old. We were impressed with how baby-friendly Paris was. We mostly used a baby carrier when we did tours or explored. I do recommend bringing your own diapers and baby food if your child is particular as it can be hard to find specific brands in Paris.

Paris Family Vacation Wrap-Up

I hope this post helped you figure out what to do with kids in Paris, France! This was one of my favorite kid-friendly trips in Europe and we can’t wait for our next family trip to Paris!

I recommend checking out some Paris tours for kids, as well as French bakeries, pretty carousels, and anything else you can’t find in your hometown.

Love this Paris 5 day itinerary? Check out my tips for Disneyland Paris , top kid-friendly Paris tours , tips for visiting Paris for the first time , guide to hiring a Paris family photographer , things to do in Paris for teens , things to do in Paris at night , Paris Instagram spots , visiting Versailles with kids , secret spots in Paris , Paris day trips , things to do on a Paris family vacation , Paris Tuk Tuk Tour review , tips for visiting Paris with kids , and kid-friendly Arc de Triomphe tips !

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3 days in Paris with kids: A family-friendly itinerary

• Europe , France , Paris
• France , Paris , Paris Attractions , Paris for families , Things to do in Paris , Where to stay in Paris

The O'Hallorans

We’re made up of Lyndsey, John and Erin, who all love a new adventure. We try to get away as much as possible, especially during school holidays and variety is a must for us. That means staying anywhere from a luxury hotel to a hostel and it’s not often we go to the same place twice. 

Planning a break in any city with children can be a task in itself. Whether you’re considering Paris tour packages , or doing it all yourself, this 3 days in Paris with kids itinerary is full of ideas, including some lesser known attractions to visit. 

Where to stay – a family-friendly hotel in Montmarte

No matter what city you’re planning to visit, choosing where to stay with kids can be tricky. You’ll want somewhere close to public transport with a comfortable room and if possible, with breakfast thrown in too.

For a 3 days break to Paris, the ibis Styles Paris Montmartre Nord is a fantastic choice for families. We’ve stayed here ourselves so this is a personal recommendation. Situated in the artist’s area of Montmartre, you’ll find metro stations a 5-minute walk in either direction. Getting into central Paris is easy and it doesn’t take long at all.

We found the rooms to be incredibly comfortable, with one of the best beds I’ve ever slept in. Kids are bound to love the huge Parisian windows, looking out into the street. Breakfast is available at this hotel and is included in the price depending on where you book (we used Booking.com). Not much of Paris is open before 10am so breakfast at the hotel means a stress-free start to your day.

Arriving late afternoon (metro, hotel and Angelina Paris)

We arrived via the Eurostar in the afternoon on our first day. After spending some time sorting out our Metro cards and finding our hotel, we didn’t have too much of the day left. Sadly, the weather wasn’t on our side so we had to change our plans around a little bit.

Originally, we had planned to visit Angelina Paris in the morning but it’s a great place to go if you need to get out of the rain. Founded back in 1903, Angelina is well-known for its hot chocolate and patisserie, specifically the Mont Blanc (combination of crackling meringue, airy-light whipped cream and chestnut cream vermicelli).

Angelina was a bit of a treat for us. It was the only thing we splashed out on during our trip. If you want to try something truly Parisian then this is the place to be. The tea rooms are busy so expect a short wait to get in. You’ll get to experience a beautiful tea room with the best cakes. The hot chocolate is an acquired taste though so maybe get one to share to start with.

Evening (Sacre Coeur)

As our hotel was in Montmarte we decided to spend our evening exploring a little bit and also visiting Sacre Coeur. The church can be found up on a hill, which has 222 steps leading up to it. However, there is also a cable car, known as the Funiculaire du ​ Montmartre ,  you can ride up to the top. The cable car costs 1 metro ticket so it’s worth it to miss the steps going up but you can easily walk back down again. This is such a fun thing for young kids to experience, and it will also save their little legs.

Sacre Coeur is open from 6:30am to 10:30pm daily and entrance is free. As we had already spent quite a bit at Angelina, it was nice to do something free to keep our spending down. There is the option to climb the 300 steps up to the Basilica’s dome however, this is an additional charge and only during certain times of the day. 

Inside the church is absolutely stunning and well worth a look around. You are asked to be quiet as you go around, which isn’t always easy when you’re visiting with children. Erin actually asked why there weren’t any activities for children to do while we were there! There is plenty to see though, including the beautiful stained glass windows, figures and paintings. 

Once you’re finished looking around inside Sacre Coeur be sure to spend some time taking in the view outside. It’s a good idea to start your visit just as it’s getting dark outside because after not too long, you’ll also see the Basilica all lit up at night. As long as you have clear weather, which we did not, you’ll get some of the best views of Paris from Sacre Coeur. There are viewing stands which you can pay to use and these are great for kids. You’ll get a lot of people trying to sell cheap tourist souvenirs here such as locks to put on the railings. They don’t tend to bother you too much though, and I found they backed off when I said I wasn’t interested. 

Morning (Cluny Museum – National Museum of the Middle Ages)

Personally, I think the bigger art galleries and museums in Paris can be quite overwhelming for children. If this is your first trip, it’s a good idea to pick some lesser-known museums which children might be more interested in. We chose the Cluny Museum – National Museum of the Middle Ages for our first stop of the day. 

This museum is open daily except for Mondays, from 9:30 to 18:15. Entrance costs €12 for adults and £10 for concessions. There are lockers available to store your bags. Large bags are not allowed in the museum. 

As you can guess from the name of this museum, it’s all about the Middle Ages. The museum is filled with stunning pieces such as statues of Apostles, stained glass windows, jewellery and coins as well as paintings. We all enjoyed walking around this museum, taking in the history and reading about the pieces. As a smaller museum, it’s easier for children to look around, without being met by crowds of people in front of one thing. 

We had a reason for wanting to visit this particular museum over others. In one of the exhibits, you’ll find ‘The Lady and the Unicorn’, a tapestry which is part of a larger set. As big Harry Potter fans, we wanted to see this as it’s used in the Gryffindor common room in the films. The tapestries fill a whole room and are very popular. There are seats in the middle though so you can have a sit down while you wait to get a bit closer. 

Top tip:  It’s a great idea to take a drawing book and pencil for the kids. Erin loved drawing her favourite things in the museum! 

Lunchtime (Paris Pantheon)

After the museum, we found somewhere local for lunch. We didn’t have a plan so just tried to find somewhere on the walk from the museum to the Paris Pantheon. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in this area, including fast food chains so you won’t struggle. We’re not foodies and tend to stick to something safe when we’re abroad. We opted for pizza for lunch at a corner restaurant on Rue des Ecoles, called En Face. We paid around €50 for 2 large pizzas, 2 portions of fries and 3 drinks. The food was delicious and a lovely choice for families.

We had planned to go inside the Paris Pantheon after lunch but we’d spent more time doing other things in the morning than we’d planned. Instead of going on, we decided to walk past instead just to look at the building. If you do want to go in, it has an entrance fee (€11,50 and free for children) which includes entrance to the main building and the crypt. You can also pay an additional €3,50 for access to the panorama at the top.

Afternoon and early evening (Jardin des Plantes)

We spent the afternoon at Jardin des Plantes, a 20-minute walk from the Paris Pantheon. This is an ideal place for the whole family as there is a variety of things to do. Entrance to Jardin des Plantes is free, and it’s lovely to walk around the botanical gardens. We chose to visit the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes, one of the world’s oldest zoos in the middle of the French capital. Full-priced entrance tickets cost €13, with the reduced rate being €10. You can buy tickets either online in advance, or at the ticket office on the day of your visit. There may be a queue during busy periods.

Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes is only a small zoo and you can expect to spend a few hours there. It’s a lovely place for kids of all ages, as well as adults and it was nice to do something outdoors. The enclosures are a really good size and there’s a wide variety of animals to see here. We really enjoyed the reptile house, looking for red pandas and watching the big cats prowl around. 

Top tip:  a short walk away, close to one of the university buildings, you’ll find a great shop selling super cheap crepes. We paid around €7 for 3 crepes and it’s right near a metro station. 

Morning (Museum of Modern Art)

This was the busiest of our days in Paris. We had a fairly early start to make sure we could fit it all in. Being able to have breakfast at the hotel was a big help. It meant we didn’t waste any time trying to find food. 

On the way to our first stop of the day, we took a short walk to the Arc de Triomphe from the metro station. Although the Champs Elysees is usually a really busy street, you’ll find it quieter first thing in the morning before the shops open. This means you have a chance at getting slightly better pictures from the road opposite. Unfortunately, you’ll never get a picture without any cars in it. 

I wanted to make sure we got to see at least one art gallery while we were in Paris so I chose the Museum of Modern Art. Not only was it close to two other things we were doing that day but entrance was also free! Inside, this is a very different museum and one I think is great for kids of any age. From one piece to the next, you’ll get something really different. Each piece was a great talking point and we all had favourites. It’s a good idea to make up a scavenger hunt before visiting with children. This will help them have things to search for as you walk around. 

We spent a couple of hours at the Museum of Modern Art , roughly from 10am to 12pm. This was plenty of time for us as a family and it meant that Erin didn’t get too bored. Our next destination was a short walk away!

Lunchtime (Aquarium de Paris)

Next up was the Aquarium de Paris, located at the Trocadéro. This was a 10 minute walk from the Museum of Modern Art, which took us along the River Seine. If you have time, adding a Seine river cruise to your itinerary is a great idea. 

You’ll probably want some lunch before visiting the Aquarium de Paris and there are lots of choices close by. Just outside of the aquarium, you’ll find an outdoor eatery, offering things like sausages and fried chicken. Alternatively, there are stalls selling crepes and waffles at the entrance to the Trocadéro. There is nowhere to eat inside the aquarium so it’s a good idea to grab something before you go in. 

The Aquarium de Paris isn’t cheap and you can expect to pay around €26.50 for adults and €19 for children. We tried to plan activities that were a mix for everyone on this trip though, ensuring we picked some places that we knew Erin would love. The aquarium is quite small but it’s a lovely place to spend a few hours. You’ll find so many different kinds of tropical fish, a great jellyfish area, a small cinema and a koi carp pond where you can try and touch the fish. Although the short films in the cinema were in French, we were still able to enjoy them and following along. This area is about half way through the visit and it’s a great way to have a little bit of a break. 

Afternoon and early evening (Eiffel Tower)

For our last activity of the day, we had pre-booked tickets for the Eiffel Tower. We bought these via Viator, as tickets on the official website had sold out when I tried to book. You’re given a timeslot for your visit and you’ll need to go through a few sets of security before you’re able to start your visit properly. There may be long lines to get through security, depending on when you choose to visit. Be sure to leave some extra time for this. Going to the top of the Eiffel Tower was the only thing Erin had asked to do on our trip to Paris. When we arrived, she was so happy and excited. I had never been up either so I was also excited. As one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, that first view of the Eiffel Tower is pretty special. 

You can choose tickets that include either steps or the lift up to the second level, and then there will be a lift right up to the top. No matter which level you go to, you’re going to get some of the best views of this beautiful city. Older children will be able to look out easily. You might need to help young children to see some things. Me and Erin spent quite a lot of time looking out and seeing what we could see. It was really fun to see if we could find buildings and attractions we had already been to. You’re not rushed and you can spend as much time on each level as you want. 

​For families, it’s good to know that there are plenty of options for toilets. You won’t go far without finding some. There are also places to grab some food or souvenirs while you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower. If you’re feeling fancy, there’s a champagne and macaron bar on the top level. 

Seeing Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower  is definitely a Paris bucket list item. I’m so glad we got to do. this as a family. After such a long day, we didn’t stay out for this evening. We headed back to the hotel for an early night.

Morning (Exploring Montmartre and the Montmartre Museum)

Although our hotel was in the middle of Montmartre, we didn’t spend much time exploring the area. We had a free morning with no real plans so we decided to have a walk around and head to a museum. The streets of Montmartre are really beautiful and they’re well worth discovering. From cobbled streets to window gardens, there’s something to pique your interest on every street. Montmartre is quite a hilly area of Paris though and you’ll come across quite a lot of steep sets of steps. We took these quite slow going up but going down was much easier. 

The museum we visited was the Montmartre Museum . This area is known for being home to many artists over the years including Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet and Pablo Picasso. We wanted to learn more about the area’s history and this is the perfect museum for that. The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m and costs €15 for adults, €10 for teachers and students aged 18-25 and €8 for children aged 10-17. Children under 10 are free. 

The Montmartre Museum is home to the last working vineyard in Paris. Although you cannot go in, you can get a great view from the gardens. As you walk around, there is plenty to see both indoors and outdoors. The gardens are lovely to sit in, and you can see Renoir’s swing as well as a scene right from his paintings. Inside, you can discover paintings all about Montmarte, Chat Noir, and the artists who lived in the area. We found this to be such an interesting museum and again, Erin took her drawing pad with her. This is a great way to keep little kids occupied while you’re reading about the collections. 

One area of the museum that we really loved was the recreated artist’s rooms. Although not much of the original rooms survive, a fantastic job has been done to recreate what they would have looked like. This was so interesting to see, as Montmartre was an area where lots of artists lived at one point. As somewhere we hadn’t planned on visiting, it was perfect for a family trip and there was something for all of us to enjoy. 

Lunchtime (Cafe or picnic lunch in Montmartre)

Montmartre is a great place to grab some lunch because there are so many places to choose from. You won’t go far before coming across another cafe, restaurant or fast food chain. Montmartre is a really good place to eat as a family too because you’ll find all different kinds of cuisines. There are some lovely green areas in Montmartre too, so a picnic lunch could also be an option. Fresh baguettes, cheeses and fruit are easy to find and you’ll have a wonderful time taking in the atmosphere of Montmartre while having lunch. 

Afternoon and heading home

Sadly, after our time in Montmartre it was time to go back to the hotel and pick up our luggage. We had a train home booked for 5pm. We arrived at Gare du Nord at around 3pm, when we were able to go through security and wait for our train. Gare du Nord was quite stressful compared to our experience with the  Eurostar from St. Pancras . Luckily, we arrived a bit early and had some time to relax before boarding the train home.

We had a fantastic time and I think 3 days in Paris with kids is a good amount of time. We fit a lot into this time which was made easier by missing out big attractions such as the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral (closed during our trip) and Disneyland Paris. Paris with kids is easily doable but I think you need to choose your activities well, and make sure there is something for everyone. If you don’t fancy sorting it all out yourself, consider Paris tour packages from Kolkata to take away some of the stress.

Read more about our holiday to Paris:

• How to spend 3 days in Paris with kids
• Travelling to Paris by Eurostar
• Staying at the  ibis Styles Paris Montmartre Nord
• An underwater adventure at Aquarium de Paris
• Our experience at Angelina Paris
• Visiting the Eiffel Tower with kids
• A day at Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes
• 10 things to do in Montmartre as a family

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• Paris with kids: 5 tips for an amazing family trip to Paris

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Usually when families think of kid-friendly vacations, theme parks and all-inclusive resorts are the first options that come to mind. Those trips with kids have their place, but if your heart sings at the thought of exploring Europe with kids, I have one piece of advice to offer: DO IT.

We’ve gone on many successful Europe trips with little kids and our recent visit to Paris was no exception. While the City of Lights may require a little more forethought ( this timeline should help) than some other destinations, it really is a kid-friendly and there are so many things to do in Paris with kids. There’s so much to do that you’ll be sure to find the right muse for every member of the family. Read on for our top tips in this Paris trip planner for families to have a successful trip to Paris with children!

Where to stay in Paris with kids

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Read more France articles or get Europe travel inspiration

Pro tip:  The easiest way to get from the airport into the city with all that luggage after a long flight is by taxi. You’ll want to either bring your own travel car seat or book a car service that comes with a car seat included .

We’ve stayed in several different areas of Paris over the years. After a huge range of experiences, we strongly prefer to stay in the more central areas of the city. We like the walkability, especially when staying out late for activities like seeing the Eiffel Tower at night. On our last visit staying in a less central area of the city, we found that closures and construction on le metro left us going hither and yon to get to our destinations so we wouldn’t opt for that again.

Here are some great, centrally-located apartments suitable for families:

• Drouot Luxe apartments – 9th arr., two different family-friendly sizes for big groups, close to Opera Garnier and convenient metro lines
• Appartement Echelle – 1st arr. in the center of the city, sleeps 4 people, walking distance to major Paris attractions
• Budget-friendly Marais historic apartment – 3rd arr. in the trendy Marais, two bedroom, 3rd floor walk-up, close to a convenient metro line

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Paris, France

And there’s so much to get excited about in Paris for families! Older kids may want to read guidebooks or explore the Discover series to help plan activities. For our little kids, we loved reading Crepes by Suzette to get them excited about the food while developing a familiarity with the sites and ambiance of Paris. We even got a book on the Shapes of Paris to help our 3 year old identify some of the landmarks.

What could be more iconic? Without any prompting from us, our kids made the Eiffel Tower a focus for their time in Paris and we decided to roll with it. Your family may experience the same excitement when traveling to Paris with kids! Don’t just go up the Eiffel Tower and call it a day, though.

During your entire family trip to Paris, make a game of spotting the top from different vantage points around the city – and let your kids practice photographing it. For engineering-minded kids, talk about its design and construction. For artistic kids, take a picnic and some supplies to the Champ de Mars and give them time to record their impressions (and run around chasing pigeons).

How to visit the Eiffel Tower with kids

Should you buy a ticket for the eiffel tower in advance.

Definitely.

Buy timed Eiffel Tower tickets in advance to avoid the ticket queue if you know when you want to visit. When we visited in mid-June we strolled in around mid-afternoon and the line was enormous. Oops!

When is the best time to visit the Eiffel Tower if you haven’t purchased a ticket in advance?

On the other hand, a year before we went on a weekday in the early afternoon in May and the ticket queue was completely empty. The elevator queue took only about 10 minutes! YMMV.

What should you bring to the Eiffel Tower when you visit with kids?

As little as possible. Really. We goofed on this one and brought our full day’s worth of gear in the stroller basket. You must collapse your stroller to go up the elevator of the Eiffel Tower. So can you bring a stroller up the Eiffel Tower? Yes, but be prepared to take all of your stuff and your children out! We were happy to have snacks, water, sunscreen , sunglasses, and cameras on hand for our visit. Something like this is perfect to have on hand *just in case*.

How high up the Eiffel Tower can you go with children?

In theory, all the way up. However, both times we’ve visited the top has been closed due to high wind! We’ve been happy with the view from level 2 and think that our young kids wouldn’t do well at the very top. Note that the better viewing area on level 2 requires going up a short flight of stairs. This is another situation where it’s better not to have a stroller at the Eiffel Tower.

When does the Eiffel Tower light show start in the summer?

Late. Sorry! We visited in mid-May and it began at 10pm. We had hoped it would begin at 9pm, but we were wrong. Since the walk or metro back to our apartment would take a half hour, we debated whether or not to stay the extra hour. In the end, our 5 year old was the voice of reason: his little sister was already sleeping in the stroller, he was fine staying up late and how could we come all the way to Paris and not see the Eiffel Tower light show??? So we grabbed a table with a beautiful view at Chez Francais (nevermind the stereotypically snooty service) and waited – us adults with a beverage, our son with his watercolors, and our daughter with her cozy stroller. Let’s just say that our son made the right call. (The Eiffel Tower light show schedule begins after sundown and runs until 1-2am, for five minutes at the top of every hour.)

Read more: What to pack for Paris in fall What to pack for Paris in spring

When we travel, we set one or two important-to-us priorities for each day. On this trip, we inadvertently ended up with theme days: church day, museum day, and monument day. We visit two “major” sites each day, and in between we snacked, strolled and soaked up all the charms of the city. Read below to find our favorite things to do in Paris with kids.

Should you buy a Paris Museum Pass with kids?

That’s a personal question and it depends on your style and speed of travel. If you and your kids want to see everything and move pretty quickly, the Paris Pass can offer a great value and save you the hassle of lines. If you will be visiting sites more slowly, as we did, you might opt to buy non-dates tickets online for various sites; while it’s less convenient than a single card for everything, you have more choices for pacing your trip. Of the six sites we visited in three days, one was free, four were included in the Paris Museum Pass and the pass also offers a discount on the advance purchase of timed Eiffel Tower tickets. Ronnie was organized enough to buy a combined ticket for Musee d’Orsay and L’Orangerie and tickets for Les Invalides and Saint Chappelle online in advance. The total price was the same as the two-day Paris Museum Pass but we spread our site-seeing over three days. Find out more about the Paris Museum Pass here .

Should you visit the Louvre with kids?

Obviously this is a matter of opinion, but it depends entirely on your family. I’m not sure we all would have survived a visit to the Louvre in one piece! Ronnie and I went on our last trip to Paris and, while an impressive art collection, it is jam-packed with visitors. I recall the crowd at the Mona Lisa being about 20-deep with everyone just holding up phones and cameras to snap her picture – and that was almost a decade ago! I can only imagine what it’s like now.  

We felt confident that visiting the Louvre would make the kids unhappy and us stressed, so we skipped it and we stand by that choice. Instead, we opted for the more intimate art museums just down the street. L’Orangerie shows kids how immersive art can be, with its purpose-built space covered in Monet’s wall-sized murals of water lilies arching through the day’s cycle of lighting. The Musee d’Orsay houses a huge range of art to appeal to any interest, but we made a bee-line for the impressionist and post-impressionist collections on the top floor. Not only did Jacob love the art he saw, but he was excited to learn about pointillism and incorporate it into his own art!

Buy a combo ticket for both museums to save money and skip the line!

Note that we had no problem wearing our little on in a carrier on our backs at Musee d’Orsay but we’ve heard that guards at the Louvre can be sticklers about it. We’ve encountered many art museums in Europe that don’t permit back carries, so YMMV. If you do opt to visit Musee d’Orsay with kids, be sure to book this awesome scavenger hunt . Several members of our Facebook group have done it and reported that it was a great way to engage kids!

New to Paris? Check out this awesome travel planner for your first time in Paris from World in Paris!

Check out these great ideas for visiting art museums with kids .

It’s true, we are very liberal about junk food when we travel and I feel a-ok about that. There are two reasons we let our kids enjoy extra treats on vacation: first, it makes for happier travelers; and second, it’s their vacation too. We may think it’s so exciting going off to an exotic locale, but young kids often take much more pleasure in the simple things in life like a drippy ice cream cone on a hot day.

We often “pre-game” visits to less kid-friendly places with a strategically offered snack. And Paris has so many wonderful snacks and desserts available, many of which are not as common here in the US (so the kids get at least a little dose of local food culture, hold the fois gras ). Our favorite kid-friendly treats in Paris were croissants (both regular and pain au chocolat ), macarons and of course crêpes (preferably Nutella-filled).

Traveling beyond Paris? Check our our top 10 things to do with kids in France!

While little ones may be happy to sit in the stroller staring at the leafy trees and impressive monuments, older kids might need more options to keep them interested in such an “adult” city. Fortunately Paris has plenty to appeal to the senses.

• I mentioned the delicious treats above, but why not take it a step further and learn to make crêpes by watching beside one of the many carts or at your local creperie? It turned out to be one of our favorite family travel experiences!   If your kids are old enough, definitely look for family cooking classes – there are some specialty ones in Paris for kids.
• Instead of walking by the many street artists, stop and make time for your child to watch the process, ask questions, and even make a new friend as Jacob did. We often find that it’s easier to make personal connections when we travel with kids – they’re so naturally inquisitive, and most people love to answer their questions about who they are and what they do!
• Since our son loves art so much, I brought a watercolor field set and proper watercolor notebook for him. He loved documenting Paris through his own eyes, and having the right tools meant everything was dry before we moved to our next site.
• The kids were also excited to try their hands at photography, so we encouraged and guided them (our daughter with the iPhone and our son with our fancy but lightweight mirrorless system camera – always with the strap on his neck!). They’re getting pretty good!

• The sounds of Paris are different than anywhere else, so take time to appreciate them. We heard accordions playing La Vie en Rose , traditional jazz bands and more. You can find live music in Paris on nearly every corner. Take a listen for yourself!

• When visiting Paris with kids, the carousels of Paris are an important tourist attraction. They span the range of artistic and architectural styles and you can find them all over the city. It’s a quick, cheap thrill for the whole family and, in my opinion, there’s no limit on the number of rides you should take in a single day. My personal favorite is in front of the Ville de Maire, just before the entrance to Le Marais.

Looking for more things to do in Paris with children? Check out a Paris family weekend itinerary from Christine at Tapped Out Travellers!

There’s no clear-cut answer to this question. Bringing a stroller gives your kids a comfortable vantage point for taking in the city while you rack up your thousands of steps. It’s all a great place to store everything you need for a full day and evening out, so you won’t need to waste time going back to your hotel. On the other hand, many smaller Metro stations have no elevator and plenty of small restaurants will give you the side eye (or just refuse entry) if you try to walk in with your massive double jogger . Don’t forget that you’ll have to empty and fold your stroller to go up the Eiffel Tower!

My advice? Bring the smallest stroller that can possibly meet your family’s needs and supplement it with a high-quality travel friendly baby carrier like the Tula Baby (which comes in both standard and toddler sizes). Which tool to use will depend on the day’s activities, how you’re feeling and even the weather.

Our solution for visiting Paris with a toddler and a preschooler was to bring a big, easy-folding single stroller with a footwell that can serve as a seat in a pinch and a toddler size carrier to use when we only want one rider in the stroller. We’ve used this plan before and it works great – sometimes both kids are in the stroller, sometimes one is walking, and sometimes one is riding on our backs in the carrier. We can still manage to get down the Metro stairs (no kid in the stroller) and restaurants are generally willing to let us squeeze the single stroller next to our table or tuck it on the side. (Our “big single” is the now-discontinued Baby Jogger Versa. Check out its new and improved replacement, the Baby Jogger City Premier !)

If you plan to bring a baby carrier to Paris – and you should if your child is three or under – check out these great tips on babywearing at the airport .

Make sure to check our this guide to the best neighborhoods in Paris for your vacation.

You can also save money by staying in a hostel in Paris – there are even some family-friendly choices !

The key to choosing what to do in Paris with kids is remembering that they have a difference sense of “iconic” than we do! It’s equally important to give yourself permission  not to do everything while you’re there.

Visit an art museum in Paris

There are so many amazing art museums in Paris that you have to visit at least one… but don’t feel pressure to visit more than one! Take your kid’s temperature (so to speak) and see if they’ll be game for a few. We prefer smaller museums with our children so Musee d’Orsay is a good pick. Other options are the Louvre (of course), l’Orangerie and Musee Rodin.

Go to a church in Paris

Just like with museums, YMMV depending on your kids! We’ve taken our children to Notre Dame, Saint Chappelle and Sacre Coeur and they liked them all. We’ve found that it’s most important with church visits not to walk around and visit every chapel around the perimeter, and if possible to let them slow down and engage with the space on their own terms. They enjoyed sitting and painting Notre Dame, photographing the stained glass of Saint Chappelle and just staring up in wonder at Sacre Coeur in the late afternoon (trust me on this). Surprisingly, this is one of my favorite things to do in Paris with children!

Play like a Parisian kid

Though Paris isn’t often thought of as a child-friendly city, there’s plenty to keep kids happy! There are carousels wherever you turn and, even better, they can appreciate the simple pleasures in places like Jardin Luxembourg – it’s one of the best things to do in Paris with toddlers in my book. Bring a few Euros and your child can rent a small wooden boat to push around the fountain with a long stick… just like their French peers. It sounds simple and it is, but the simple activity brought our kids so much joy. Bonus: there are plenty of chairs for mom or dad to sit an enjoy a coffee.

Explore a new Parisian neighborhood

Want to get a less touristy – but no less interesting – experience Paris? Take your children to the charming and interesting Belleville neighborhood. You can enjoy the neighborhood’s many diverse dining spots, a delightful stop at Tatanka toy shop and sweeping city views from the top of Parc de Belleville. Find more information about this fascinating neighborhood here .

Eat your way through Paris

Take your kids on a self-guided food tour through the culinary delights of Paris. The beautiful thing about Paris is that you can find anything you want to eat practically anywhere! Stop in a cheese shop and let them select a few French cheeses to sample, stop in a bakery to pick a few breads, a  patisserie for some sweets. Bring your treasures to the banks of the Seine for a lunchtime picnic they’ll never forget.

If you still have room after a stroll, head to the Marais for a snack at L’As du Falafel. Enjoy some time in the neighborhood’s small shops (or even a brief visit to the carousel at the Hotel de Ville) and then venture to La Droguerie du Marais for savory crepes  and  sweet ones. There are plenty of kid-friendly places to eat in Paris, and these types of casual restaurants top the list.

Wondering who the guy is in the photo above? Get the full story here!

Appreciate the Eiffel Tower

There are so many ways to enjoy the Eiffel Tower! Play “spot it” around the city as the tower comes in and out of view behind buildings, climb to the observation deck, or head to the other side of the city to appreciate the best view of the Eiffel Tower from the Montparnasse Tower.

Our first trip to Paris as a family was definitely one for the memory books and we hope yours is too! Drop us any questions below and we’ll try to help you plan an amazing visit to Paris with kids.

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14 thoughts on “paris with kids: 5 tips for an amazing family trip to paris”.

Great post. We found tramping around Paris with a 7yo pretty good too, though he got pretty tired. That’s when the hop-on, hop-off bus was a good idea! I totally agree about letting kids eat loads of things on holiday – food is such a big part of travelling and it’s often one of my son’s key memories of a trip!

We’ve never done a HoHo but maybe we’ll try one! I love seeing cities on foot so that we can go at our own page and explore little places that we stumble on, but you’re right that they’re nice for exhausting days (especially in the summer heat or cold winters).

Great tips. So many people try to pack in waaaaaay too much stuff with kids in Europe. This really breaks it down!

Thanks! We love Europe and we know we’ll *always* be back. There’s so much to enjoy about Paris without rushing from one place to another.

I’m so thankful to be done with strollers! Our first trip to Paris with the kids they were 1 & barely3, so we brought a side-by-side double umbrella stroller. It was great in the streets but horrible for the metro!! I completely agree with your point on bringing the smallest stroller possible!

Great read – thank you!! We haven’t been to Europe yet – keep saying we will wait until our youngest (2.5 now) is older and out of a stroller to go but I feel like we may need to go sooner after reading this!!

Definitely go now! Europe is a wonderful destination with young kids. Much of the food is familiar, the cities are clean, the transit is easy and cheap… My son is 5.5 and has been to 7 European countries 🙂

Wow! This is jam packed with lots of specific, useful information. It makes me want to return to the City of Lights.

Paris is truly romantic and charming. Taking your kids there must have been lots of fun and a unique experinece. How long would you recommend staying there?

I’d say 3-4 days at least depending on how much you want to see and how fast you are. Five days would be even better though!

Hi there, We have 4 kids, 9, 6, 2 1/2 and 1 years. Planning to visit Paris, any suggestions? Do you think it’s a good idea to plan a trip. Ow or should we wait for couple of years. I am little bit scared because of the 2 youngest ones. Greatly appreciate your opinion and suggestion. Thanks

Definitely check the article for things to do with the kids!

As to whether you should go now or later, it depends on your family. Is a trip to Paris a once-in-a-lifetime splurge or do you expect to get back to Europe in the future? How long is the travel and do you think your kids will be flexible enough to manage a big time difference? Are you thinking about Paris because *you* want to go or because you want your kids to experience it?

Hi, I loved your tips and will use all of them. I’m planning to stay in Paris for 4 days. My kids will be 4 and 9yo. How did you plan to see each day without wasting time? Thank you

Hi Marcela! Thanks for your comment. There’s obviously a ton of great stuff to do in Paris so you have to be extremely organized. I’d start by making a spreadsheet with the days you’ll be there and cross-check those days with the opening days of the sites you want to get to – there are frequent closure days! Then I’d try to organize by area of the city. I also recommend staying as central as possible (and near a *good* metro station with lots of lines) to minimize your transportation time.

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25 Places to Delight Kids on Your Family Trip to Paris

Paris, France is known for its romantic atmosphere, fine dining experiences, and world-famous landmarks. Much to my surprise, I discovered an abundance of activities tailored for young children on our Family Trip to Paris.  With plenty of parks, museums, and attractions suitable for all ages, Paris can be an adventure for the whole family.

In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best family-friendly attractions in Paris and provide tips for enjoying them with your kids.

Kid Friendly Activities for a Family Trip to Paris

Eiffel tower .

Let’s get the obvious out of the way, shall we?

The Eiffel Tower is Paris’ most iconic landmark so a photo op here is unmissable for your family. Climb the stairs to the second level and have a taste of French baguette with cheese and sausages before ascending to the top. 

Insider Tip : There are 3 playgrounds on the grounds of the Champ de Mars.  

At night, the Eiffel Tower comes alive with a sparkling light show that lasts around 5 minutes every hour after dark. This dazzling display is beloved by children and adults alike.  We were here in August when sunset was right at 9pm, however the first sparkle wasn’t until 10pm.   The kids were tired silly by this point, but we were all glad we stuck it out. 

Insider Tip: Pack a late night snack and a bottle of wine and head to the Champs de Mars to view the lights. 

Ride a Carousel 

Paris is famous for its ornate carousels that can be found throughout the city in large public parks.  Children will love riding the horses and other animals while parents will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Paris and the chance to catch your breath. 

Insider Tip: There’s a beautiful one on the river next to the Eiffel Tower which makes for wonderful photos, but expect to pay twice what the others charge.

Luxembourg Gardens

We spent a half day in Luxembourg Gardens and still felt there was more we could’ve done. I highly recommend prioritizing this park on your family trip to Paris.

Here are 5 of the top things to do with kids at Luxembourg Gardens and one we carefully averted our children’s eyes from. 

Puppet Show 

Luxembourg Gardens is the perfect park for picnics and exploring. But did you know that the park also hosts puppet shows? 

One of the most famous marionette theaters in Paris is the Théâtre des Marionnettes du Jardin du Luxembourg. This charming little theater has been entertaining audiences since 1933.  The shows are held throughout the year (except for a break during the month of August) and offer a fun and entertaining experience for children. 

While the shows are in French, the visual art is multilingual and they are often acting out well known fairy tales so don’t let the language dissuade you from including this attraction during your family trip to Paris. 

Sailboats: A Timeless Tradition

For 6€ per 30 minutes, kids are given a model sailboat and a long stick to “sail” their boat in the fountain.  My 5 year old was thoroughly entertained for every minute he chased his boat around the border of the fountain until it was within arms reach of his stick. It held my 3 year old’s interest for about 7 minutes.  

This charming activity is a quintessential part of Parisian childhood and a delightful spectacle for visitors. The tradition dates back to 1927 when a French man named Clément Paudeau began crafting these exquisite toy boats.  These aren’t just any toy boats, but carefully crafted wooden models that have been passed down and maintained through generations.  

The ritual is simple yet captivating. You place your boat on the water and give it a gentle push, then watch as it sails across the basin, powered by the wind. Children gleefully chase after their boats, waiting for them to reach the edge of the fountain before nudging them back into the open water with a long stick.

Imagine the backdrop of a royal palace or the iconic Medici Fountain as you engage in this age-old pastime.  The tiny sailboats against these grand monuments adds a magical touch to the experience. This tradition is a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy the simpler pleasures of life.  

Playground & Carousel

There are children’s playgrounds inside the Luxembourg Garden that, to my surprise, charged an admission!  I suppose this keeps the crowds more manageable. Next to the largest of the play spaces, is the carousel. 

Sandboxes 

A big hit for my kids was the large sandboxes located in front of Luxembourg Garden’s Marionette theater. 

Insider Tip: Bypass the pony rides . These are a sticking point with many locals and tourists alike, as the animals are not well cared for. 

Enjoy downtime in the 4th Arrondissement 

The true magic of Paris lies not just in its grand monuments, but also in its quieter, more intimate spaces. An afternoon in the 4th Arrondissement allowed us to catch our breath as we escaped the crowds.  Here are two spots not to miss. 

Rue des Rosiers

A pedestrian street where we could let the kids take the lead without a tight grip on their hand in fear of traffic or crowds. Lots of restaurants and chic boutiques line the street. 

Place des Vosges

Tucked away in the heart of the 4th Arrondissement, this public square offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustling streets. It’s a place where kids can run free under the watchful eye of centuries-old mansions.

The charm of the Place des Vosges is hard to resist. There’s an air of tranquility that invites you to slow down, to savor the moment. Watch as your kids delight in the simple joy of chasing pigeons across the manicured lawns, their laughter echoing through the historic arcade. 

Then there are the sudden bursts of excitement as they discover the sandbox hidden among the trees, or the thrill of dipping their hands into the cool waters of the fountains.   Local kids brought sand toys and buckets and invited my own children to run back and forth to the fountains to refill the water supply and construct sandcastles.

It was this laid back afternoon that is one of my fondest Parisian memories.  So be sure to make room on your Family Trip to Paris to slow down. 

Jardin des Tuileries

Firstly, the garden’s location is simply unbeatable. Nestled between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, it offers breathtaking views of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. 

The garden itself is a masterpiece of landscape architecture, with meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and rows of statues that lend an air of historical grandeur.

This sprawling oasis in the heart of Paris is indeed a treasure for your family trip to Paris. As you step into its lush expanse, you’re immediately transported away from the bustling city streets.  It’s a place where children can play and explore. There are several playgrounds scattered throughout the garden, as well as sailboats to float in the fountain and a summer carnival that’s sure to delight the little ones. 

The Jardin des Tuileries is also a perfect spot for a family picnic. Grab some sandwiches and pastries from a nearby boulangerie, find a shady spot under the trees. Or better yet, grab macaroons from the adjacent Ladurée and enjoy a sweet treat among the gardens. 

Musee d’Orsay 

For families with children 8+ or littles who are used to gallery type museums, a visit to the Musee d’Orsay is a joy.  

The museum is home to an impressive collection of French art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and van Gogh. It is built inside a former railway station Gare d’Orsay so the architecture is as enjoyable as the exhibits.  They have a super engaging scavenger hunt for the kids too. 

Insider Tip: Pay an extra 2-3€ to purchase a timed ticket and skip the line on your family trip to Paris. 

Cruise on the Seine River

One of the most relaxing ways to take in the city is by boat, especially with kids. It allows you to sit back and relax instead of navigating crowds, dismissing peddlers, and watching traffic.  

Take a cruise on the Seine River to get a different perspective of Paris from the water. Children will love seeing the city’s landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral from a new angle.  Even more, they’ll love the sounds of cars passing overhead as you cruise under the Seine’s historic bridges. 

A river cruise was included with our Hop On Hop Off bus pass, so it made this experience highly affordable. 

Insider Tip: Bring snacks and games to keep kids entertained during the cruise. (Check your cruise line’s policy regarding snacks.)

Jardin d’Acclimatation Amusement Park

This family-friendly amusement park has something for everyone. With dozens of rides, a petting zoo, and playgrounds for all ages, Jardin d’Acclimatation is a must-visit attraction for families with young children . 

Insider Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and book your day 8 days in advance or more to save money!  Families with 5 or more people will save money with a family bundle. 

Louvre 

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and can be overwhelming for children. Make the visit more fun and interactive by investing in a tour guide that specializes in family tours and treasure hunts . 

Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is set to reopen in late 2024! 

While younger children may not appreciate the architecture and history, the cathedral’s towers offer breathtaking views of the city. 

Cité des Sciences et de L’Industrie

Located in the Parc de la Villette, Cité des Sciences et de L’Industrie is the largest science museum in Europe. The museum offers an exclusive section for kids 5-12 years old that focuses on movement and sensory play.

Insider Tip: Arrive early in the day to avoid long lines.  If you’re doing 2-3 of the participating museums, consider a 48 hour Paris Museum Pass. 

Extending your Family Trip to Paris

Versailles day trip .

Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles to experience French history and extravagant architecture. By day trip I mean give yourself the ENTIRE day to soak in the palace, gardens and expansive grounds.  

Visit the Hall of Mirrors and explore the palace’s gardens which hosts the most magnificent fountains and kids will love the row boats.

We did A LOT of things wrong when we visited on a whim, finding we had time to spare in Paris. 

Here are some tips based on mistakes we made on our spontaneous visit.

• Book your date well in advance if you hope to see inside the palace. Read our full Versailles with Kids guide for an insider tip on what to do if they’re sold out and you had your heart set on a palace tour. You do not need an advanced ticket to access the gardens.
• Consider doing the palace tour without young children.  Find out why .
• Don’t bring your large luggage.  Small hand luggage can be stowed for free in the ticket office.
• Arrive early and b-line to the golf cart rental. 
• Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens.
• Don’t try to see it all.  But DO prioritize the Queen’s Palace and grounds.

Check out our Versailles guide for six more tips !

Strasbourg Day Trip

Take a day trip to Strasbourg , a charming town located on the border of France and Germany. The town’s winding streets and half-timbered houses will transport you back in time. Don’t miss the canals of Petite France where there are wonderful play areas for the kids.

Insider Tip: Pop inside the St. Paul’s Church of Strasbourg where you’ll be stunned to find laid back family activities like a coloring station, play area, and café. 

Disney Paris

For families with Disney fans, a trip to Disney Paris is a must-do. While we opted to skip it this visit, the trains make reaching the park easy from central Paris. 

With all of the magic of Disney, but with a French twist, your family’s visit will be unforgettable. 

Historically, Montmartre was a small village outside the city limits of Paris. It became a hub for artists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting luminaries like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Renoir who were drawn to the area’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning views over Paris.

One of Montmartre’s most famous landmarks is the stunning Basilica of Sacré-Coeur. Perched at the very top of the hill, this basilica not only offers stunning architecture but also breathtaking panoramic views over Paris.

The area is also known for its picturesque streets and squares. Take a stroll down Rue de l’Abreuvoir to admire some of Montmartre’s most beautiful houses, including the famous “La Maison Rose,” a pink-painted bistro that has become an Instagram favorite.

Getting Around on Your Family Trip to Paris

Hop on hop off .

If you’re determined to hit all the grand attractions, then your family may enjoy a hop on hop off option.  There are two front-runners when it comes to hop on hop off buses in Paris: Big Bus and TootBus.  We opted for TootBus because of their kid-oriented audio guide and it was slightly cheaper to combine with a Seine cruise. 

There are just two cities where Hop On Hop Off buses truly justify the expense, in my opinion – Paris and London. Not only do they provide respite from the crowds and offer a chance to rest your feet, but they also allow you to delve into history while listening to informative audio guides. Plus, with an open-air top deck, you can bask in the sunshine while your family naps.

Insider Tips: Bring your own headphones with an audio jack.  Try to get a seat in the front row on the top deck for your kids. They’ll feel like they’re in the driver seat.

Uber and Freenow Ride Share Apps

By far the easiest if you have to get clear across the city and are traveling with your luggage.  We paid about 50€ to get from Gare de l’Est to CDG Airport.  It was also 50€ each way to Versailles from the city. 

The metro is ½ price for kids ages 4-9 and free under 4. You can buy an unlimited 48 hour, 72 hour, etc ticket and easily move throughout the city. 

Where to Eat in Paris

Order a “large diet coke” at café le petit pont .

A trip to Paris is not complete without indulging in French cuisine. But for children who may not appreciate foie gras and escargot, order a “large diet coke” at Café le Petit Pont. The menu option is a secret code for a special delivery.  You’ll get a similar effect if you order a “large beer.” 

Ladurée is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth in Paris. Founded in 1862 by Louis-Ernest Ladurée, it has expanded to locations all over the city.

Ladurée is perhaps best known for its macarons, which are considered among the finest in Paris, if not the world. Beyond macarons, Ladurée is also a tea salon, restaurant, and chocolatier. Check out the most famous, Champs-Elysées location.

They warmly welcomed the wide eyes of my 3 year old son and rewarded him with a free macaron after he used bonjour and si vous plait ever so sweetly.

Riverfront Food Stalls

To the east of the Eiffel Tower, along the riverfront, you’ll find a stretch of food vendors operating out of tents. Here, you’ll also find a countdown clock to the 2024 Paris Olympics!

We loved grabbing a bite here as we could each select exactly what we were craving and having just arrived in Paris, it was nice to keep the Iron Lady in our view.

Bouillon Chartier Montparnasse

Known for its authenticity, beauty, and cuisine, it is considered one of the best “bouillons” or traditional French restaurants in the city.

The restaurant retains its gorgeous Art Nouveau décor, providing an atmosphere that harks back to the Belle Époque era with its high ceilings, mirrored walls, and vintage fixtures.

The menu offers a variety of classic French dishes at affordable prices. The concept originated from Pierre Louis Duval, a clever butcher who started offering a single dish of meat and bouillon (soup/stock) to workers in 1855. This tradition of providing a decent meal at a modest price continues today, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

We enjoyed trying the snails and the steak was delicious. Meanwhile, our boys devoured the closest thing to a “hot dog” they could find.

Boulangeries

We found ourselves grabbing quick pick me ups as we were exploring rather than a full sit down meal more often than not.

Where to Stay in Paris 

This is a nearly impossible question to answer as it very much depends on budget, personal preference, desired itinerary, and family size.  At the tourist center, you’ll have a hard time finding hotels that will accommodate 4+ people without booking multiple rooms.   

We are budget conscious travelers, so we stayed on the south end of the city and rode the subway into the center about 15 minutes each morning.  We saved about 200€ per night doing so and my kids loved their “kid tower” in the loft of our hotel room at B&B HOTEL Paris Malakoff Parc des Expositions. 

I will, however, recommend a great airport if you need to spend a night near CDG for an early morning flight. We had a wonderful experience at Moxy (by Marriott).  We were each given a free welcome drink and spun a wheel for a free prize. The lobby was filled with activities to entertain my little ones on a dreary evening; giant Jenga, foosball, coloring, and board games.  The complimentary breakfast was phenomenal as well. 

Closing Thoughts about a Family Trip to Paris 

Paris is a city that offers a wealth of attractions that are perfect for children. From the world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, there is something to suit all ages and interests.  

Just make sure you leave plenty of unstructured time to let Paris surprise you. 

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Exploring Luxembourg Gardens is something I’d truly enjoy. It appears to be so much fun!

Paris has so much to offer kids. Love the parks, galleries and national icons. We combined our trip with Disneyland Paris which worked brilliantly as a family holiday. The main issue is not wearing out everyone’s legs trying to see everything!

I’d love to return and see Disneyland Paris. I’ve heard it is a let less overwhelming for little kids than some of the other Disney Parks can be.

My husband and I took the kids to Paris on two different work conferences. It was such a wonderful learning experience. We battled through sickness, fear of heights (Eiffel), fear of weird food (snails?!?) and grumpy jet lag (parents). It was so worth it. My adult kids now travel everywhere with their jobs and sometimes we do it together.

Oh my goodness! What an adventure! (We didn’t have any luck getting our kids to try the snails)

Having grown up in Paris, I have spent a lot of time enjoying the various activities and games at Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. It’s an amazing place for kids.

Seems like your family had quite the array of things to do in Paris. I can imagine the green spaces were awesome for the kids. We only visited the city in winter so we missed the springtime green and flowers. Luxembourg Gardens must be gorgeous to visit in the warmer months!

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17 Fun Things To Do in Paris With Kids (2024)

Are you searching for fun and engaging things to do in Paris with kids? Look no further! I raised two kids in Paris, and I know all the cool places to keep your kids entertained and make your Family trip to Paris a success for your entire family.

In this article, I am sharing my favorite activities in Paris for families. But also hotel recommendations that consider families of 5, cool hang out spots your kids will love, and some restaurant recommendations for families.

Shortcut: Wishlist for family-friendly activities & attractions that I created for GetYourGuide

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

Paris Travel Tips

• 🚨 Get Travel Insurance
• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

Visiting Paris with family is wonderful. As simple as that. Already the obvious sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, or Montmartre are fun spots to see with your kids, but there is so much more to explore.

In fact, Paris has so much to offer, that it’s impossible for them to get bored. But visiting a city like Paris with family requires more than just sprinting from sight to sight. It’s rather the opposite, to avoid a possible cultural overkill.

No one wants to drag cranky kids through a staggering capital like Paris. It’s not fun for either of you.

Kids also need activities where they can be what they are: kids! Where they can run and play, be as loud as they want, and with the possibility to discover Paris on their terms.

For your family trip to Paris, you’ll also be interested in these posts:

• The best parks in Paris – beautiful gardens you need to visit!
• 22+ Activities Teenagers Love in Paris!
• Pack for Paris: Essentials you need in 2022!
• 15 Quick Tips for Visiting Disneyland Paris

My two boys are born in Paris. At first, I could hardly imagine raising them here; I am not a countryside girl, but Paris is truly something else. Well, it was a wee too much city for my idea of raising a child. But, with time I learned that Paris offers so much for children, you just need to know where to look for it.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

Family trip to Paris: Preparation is all!

If your family’s trip to Paris will be a success, heavily depends on how well your kids are prepared for their big trip. The more they know, the more excited they are and the more they are eager to engage in their destination.

Just imagine, they might even never have heard of Paris until now, and there’s absolutely no better time for some Paris hype than before actually leaving with your kids to Paris!

So, what about a Paris-themed movie night?

Movies about Paris your kids will love

See on Amazon

Books and Travel Guides about Paris for Children

To best prepare your family trip to Paris and show your children all the fantastic things to do in Paris for kids, get them one of these Paris travel guides for extra for kids.

Order on Amazon

Top Paris attractions your family shouldn’t miss

There are some attractions, you should not miss when visiting Paris – no matter if you have 5, 35, or 65 years under your belt.

However, a word of advice. Paris is at most times of the year very busy and tickets to attractions sell either out quickly or you stand in line for hours to get access. So, we all know that the patience of most kids is countable in minutes at best. Save your kids and yourself from standing in line and also a disappointment, and buy your admission tickets in advance.

Important: Book your attraction tickets in advance!

For your convenience, I listed below the sights and landmarks that are either often sold-out weeks in advance or require long waiting times. I also added a link to GetYourGuide , where you can easily purchase your tickets online.

Personally, I regularly use GetYourGuide for tickets for my family, and it was so far always a smooth experience. I find their 24h refund policy very reassuring because plans can change, and knowing that I won’t lose money, is peace of mind that I really like to have.

Anyway, here are the most popular sights in Paris where I can’t stress enough how important it is to get your tickets in advance:

• Eiffel Tower – reserve your tickets to the summit here
• Louvre – reserve your favorite time slot here
• Catacombs – book here well in advance
• Castle of Versailles – reserve here

The Best Activities & things to do in Paris with kids

#1 visit the jardin d’acclimatation.

Click here to get your day pass with unlimited rides

The Jardin d’Acclimatation is one of our favorite Sunday afternoon outing spots in Paris. It is a very versatile park with different themed areas that are super fun to discover if you are on a family vacation in Paris.

Firstly, there are several playgrounds , that are all a little different and sure keep your kids busy. But there is also a little zoo with goats, sheep, and birds and a big wildlife enclosure with deer. All those are included in the entrance fee.

And then there is the fun fair: various Merry-go-rounds and activities for all ages that are charged extra. You can buy a ticket for unlimited rides here, though

What we like about this park is that you can easily hang out there the entire day without spending more than the entrance fee. You can bring your picnics and relax in one of the deck chairs that are free to use, while your kids have fun on the playgrounds.

In summer, they even have a little water playground.

But it is not only for kids: In the Jardin d’Acclimatation is a café from the very famous Angelina Franchise and also the Foundation Louis Vuitton, one of the most popular Modern Art Museums in Paris!

Access: The Jardin d’Acclimation is located within the Bois de Boulogne area. During peak times between 2 and 5, it can be tricky to find parking if you’re coming by car. Otherwise, you can always take Metro Line 1 until Les Sablons . For more info, check out our post about the Jardin d’Acclimatation!

#2 Stroll along the Berges de Seine (Free Activity)

This public park along the banks of the Seine is located on a former freeway between Eiffel Tower and Louvre. The 2.3km long promenade is nice for having walks or going for a run. It’s also really great for skating!

The area is also equipped with several floating gardens, picnic areas, exhibition spaces, playgrounds, sports facilities, and some cafés (many are closed during winter though). The Berges are a great destination if you are looking for some less costly things for your family trip to Paris.

During summer, the Paris Plage is hosted on the Berges.

For more budget things to do in Paris with kids, also check out these posts:

• 70+ Free & Fun Things to do in Paris
• 5 most convenient Ibis Hotels in Paris
• 21 Simple Ways to Save Money in Paris

#3 Take a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour in Paris

Book your this sightseeing bus tour here

When you arrive in a new and unfamiliar city and probably have to fight a jet lag as well, there is truly nothing better than a bus tour. Especially if you are traveling with kids.

Bus tours are great to familiarize yourself with Paris. But it’s also a really convenient way to really see everything without much effort.

Because let’s be honest – it’s very possible that your kids don’t share your sightseeing aspirations and rather visit the Disney store on the Champs-Élysée or the playgrounds at the Jardin du Luxembourg. And every trip is just as good as the mood of your unhappiest child.

You can book your bus tour directly here

#4 Cruise the Locks of the Canal St. Martin

Book this wonderful channel Cruise here

While it’s almost standard to take a cruise on the Seine while being in Paris , including the lesser-known Canal St. Martin, it is quite a unique experience . I took this Canal Cruise earlier this year with my younger son (he’s 10) and he absolutely loved it!

This very interesting and fun cruise sails you down the Seine until you enter the Canal St.Martin. After a first lock, you continue your journey through a 1.2 miles (ca. 2 km) long tunnel under the Bastille before following the channel until Parc La Villette.

Your journey leads through a non-touristic part of Paris, along with brides and chestnut trees, until Parc La Villette where you could continue your trip by visiting the Science Museum .

It was really a fantastic tour and my child loved the locks, while I was more blown away by all the interesting facts the live commentator shared.

For schedules and rates, check this tour here on GetYourGuide.

#5 Visit the Louvre Museum

Book your family & kid friendly Louvre Tour here

Believe it or not, the Louvre is great for families and kids because this famous museum is very accessible.

First, there is their audio guide, which comes in the form of a Nintendo DS and helps you navigate the massive exhibition and the different premade trails are making sure you’re not missing a thing.

The trails are actually a great tool to efficiently visit the museum. If you don’t get the audio guide, the Masterpieces Trail is also available as a free paper version directly at the museum. It’s a self-guided tour that doesn’t take longer than 1,5h and you see every important piece of art in the museum.

They even give out free little Louvre Passports with stickers, where the kids can check off what they’ve seen.

To show your kids what they should watch out for, see my article about the most famous paintings at the Louvre .

But whether you are opt-in for a family-friendly Louvre tour or you are visiting the world’s biggest museum on your own, do make sure to arrange your visit in advance. The waiting time at the entrance can be long, so booking ahead of time is definitely worth it. Click here to reserve your tickets.

(Kids under 18 have free access, so no need to get a ticket for them!)

Access: As the Louvre is very central, public transportation is your best choice: Metro Line 1, Palais Royal Musée du Louvre.

The museum is free for everyone under 18.

Tip : The waiting times at the security checks at the entrance through the iconic pyramid can be really long. There is another entrance inside that is usually less busy. If you are pregnant or traveling with a small infant, don’t hesitate to approach the security guards, you are entitled to priority access!

#6 Hunt down the Space Invaders of Paris

If you wander through the streets of Paris , you inevitably notice the little mosaics that you find attached to many houses and walls. It’s a street art project and currently, there are more than 1400 Space Invaders splattered all over Paris and the best: you can collect!

Just download the Flash Invader App to your smartphone and scan them as soon as you spot one! It’s super easy and fun, and I guarantee you it makes your child WANT to walk around Paris!

#7 Visit the Cité des Sciences et l’Industrie

Reserve your entrance Ticket here in advance

The name does not tell, but one section of this science exhibition is solely dedicated to kids; the Cité des enfants .

2 permanent exhibitions (one from 2-7 years and the other from 5-12) that are running in sessions of 1,5h are allowing your child to experiment and experience science in the most interactive way possible. An educational and fun way to spend a day.

Access: within Parc de la Villette, Metro Line 5 or Tram 3b, exit Porte de Pantin

#8 Take a Cooking Class

Activities are the best way to make memories – why not in form of a cooking class with your family?

If you are traveling with kids older than 10, you have plenty of options. What about learning how to bake Croissants and impress your family at home? Get more info here

You could also go on a Sweet & Chocolate Family Treasure Hunt, where you will not only be able to taste 10 of France’s best sweets, but your kids will also make their own chocolate bar! Click here for more info, prices, and schedules

⪼ also see the fun wishlist for family-friendly activities & attractions that I created for GetYourGuide

#9 The Natural History Museum: La Grande Galerie de l’Evolution

The Grande Galerie de l’Evolution is the Natural History Museum of Paris. This massive gallery was created as a museum in 1793 and has a huuuuge collection of species from all over the world, from all eras, and of all sizes.

Exploring the 5 levels of the exhibition can easily take you a couple of hours and more. It ́s dedicated to kids, and you can find activities all around to interact with the exhibits; there are puzzles, fun activities, or educational programs on iPads everywhere.

Access: The museum is located very centrally, close to St. Michel and la Sorbonne. However, the closest metro station might be Place Monge of Line 7 .

#10 Take a Miraculous Cruise on the Seine

Secure your spot on this family-friendly Seine Cruise here

Taking a Cruise on the Seine is one of the nicest things to do in Paris. It’s also an activity that adults and kids enjoy alike, and therefore perfect for families.

But when a normal Seine Cruise is already a great experience, there is also the family and kid-friendly version of it. Animated by two characters, Ladybug and Cat Noir, your child will discover Paris and solve immersive puzzles while you can enjoy the beautiful Parisian Panorama from the comfort of your seat. The tour is in English and French!

Click here for rates and schedules of this fun Seine River Cruise

#11 Have Breakfast on the Tour Montparnasse

The Tour Montparnasse – ugly as it is – is one of the nicest view points in Paris because you have a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower . But while you could just take the lift to the visitor’s platform, you also could enjoy a really lovely breakfast at the Restaurant Ciel de Paris , that is located just a couple of floors beyond the observation deck.

Budget Tip: The dinner is pricey, but the (delicious) breakfast is, in fact, cheaper than if you’d book a ticket to the observation deck. And the fact that you can enjoy your breakfast in peace and quiet while your children are watching the miniature life going on 53 floors below them? Priceless.

#12 Have a Photo Shooting with a professional Paris Family Photographer at the Eiffel Tower

Book your professional photographer for your unique souvenir here

Professional Paris Family Photos are a wonderful way to remember your family trip to Paris for a lifetime. They make a remarkable souvenir and quite frankly, they are beating your usual selfie stick photos by lengths! (no offense lol)

#13 Visit the Palais de la Découverte

This is the perfect place for every little nerd out there. This science museum has permanent exhibits and hands-on activities about chemistry, astrology, geology, physics. It even has a Pi-room! Just know that most explanations and animations are in French only. For more info, check here.

Access: Metro Champs Elysée Clemenceau – Line 13 and 1

#14 Aquarium tropical du Palais de la Porte Dorée

There are 2 Aquariums in Paris . This is the lesser-known one and in my opinion the nicest one. It’s maybe not as fancy as the big Aquarium in Trocadero, but the building is no less impressive. It has a broad selection of fishes, (little) sharks, turtles, and crocodiles. The Museum is also hosting partially free temporary exhibitions, cloakrooms are free of charge as well. Admissions are family-friendly, at the time of writing it’s 8€ per adult, kids under 18 are free.

Access: The Aquarium has no assigned parking places, and it can be tricky at times to find a place, especially if you are not familiar with the area (we always found a place though).

However, it ́s just next to Metro Station “Porte Dorée” on Line 8.

#15 Get enchanted at the Musée de la Magie

This rather small and privately run museum has a very interesting collection of historical magic devices and materials and entertains its visitors also with a magic show. It’s a big hit for most kids and inner kids – no matter if you are into magic or not.

Access: The Musée de la Magie is very centrally located between Notre Dame and Rue Rivoli with the best Metro accessibility; Line 1 exit St.Paul or Line 7 Sully-Morland. Click here for more information.

#16 Visit Disneyland Paris with kids

Buy your day pass for Disneyland Paris here and save time at the entrance

To visit Disneyland Paris when you are in Paris with children is of course the ultimate experience for every little Disney Fan out there. If Disneyland Paris is one of the things plan on doing with your kids, don’t miss our designated Disneyland articles to help you plan your trip:

• visit Disneyland Paris from Paris
• Disneyland to the Eiffel Tower – How to get there Best

#17 Visit the many Parisian Parks

Paris is full of exciting sights but lucky as well generous with its green spaces and parks . Perfect for a break for your kids between museums and attractions. But the Parisian Parks are also a good place for lunch picnics or for outdoor Apéritifs (read here what belongs to a typical French Apéro )

My favorite Parks in Paris to visit are these:

• Parc Georges Brassens (local vibes & Playgrounds and you can right away head over to the Petit Ceinture )
• Park Floral in the Bois de Vincennes, easily combinable with the Château de Vincennes
• Jardin Luxembourg for the traditional boats and as well a (not free) playground

What’s the best place to stay in Paris with Family?

I know that finding a hotel that accommodates the needs of a family can be so tricky! It needs to be easily accessible, clean, with enough space, and of course in a safe area, centrally located and close to the sights. Probably, you might even look for a hotel in Paris for a family of 5.

Below, I assembled for you a list of hotels that are great for families, and hopefully, you find them available on your travel dates.

Budget Hotels in Paris for Families

If you have trouble finding an affordable hotel in Paris, it can be the easiest solution to get 2 rooms. For Budgets Hotels in Paris, see this post: 5 most convenient Ibis Hotels in Paris

Aparthotel Adagio Paris Philippe Auguste – spacious Apartment with kitchenette, sleeps 4, calm street, and very close to public transport. Check your travel dates now on booking.com or Agoda .

MBM – Eiffel Tower – Spacious Appartment very close to the Eiffel Tower, with kitchenette & washing machine. Check your travel dates now on booking.com or Agoda .

Midrange Hotels in Paris for Families

Yuna Les Halles – Serviced apartment in the heart of Paris with kitchenette, AC, and separate bedroom. Check your travel dates now on booking.com or Agoda.

Hotel du Levant – located in the Latin Quarter close to Notre Dame, very central with AC and minibar. Check your travel dates now on booking.com or Agoda .

Upscale Hotels in Paris for Families

Hotel du Rond-point des Champs-Élysées – Great central and safe location, a family suite with mini bar & AC, and swimming pool – Check your travel dates on booking.com or Agoda .

Hotel Opéra Richepanse – very spacious Family suit in central Paris with balcony and view of Paris, room equipped with all amenities – Check your travel dates now on booking.com or Agoda .

Hotels in Paris for Family of five

Hotels that cater to families of 5 are rare in Paris. Especially if you want to avoid booking 2 rooms. However, I could find a few hotels that fulfill the requirements and have enough room for larger families in Paris.

Budget Option: Altamira – Apartment with kitchen and washing machine for an unbeatable price. Close to transport, shops, and restaurants. Check your travel dates no on booking.com

Le Matissia – Cute Appartment with 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms, sleeps 6! With kitchen, incl. dishwasher. Check availabilities and rates on booking.com or Agoda

Les Jardins du Luxembourg – Parisian Appartment Hotel in the Latin Quarter with a small kitchenette AC and minibar, one double bed, and 3 individual beds. Check their availabilities now on booking.com or Agoda.

Voilà! If you have questions or need additional information, don’t hesitate to join the private Salut From Paris Facebook group !

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

FAQ Paris with Kids

Paris is a great destination for families with children thanks to the many activities that are kid friendly. For example the Eiffel Tower (no brainer, is it?), the little train of Montmartre, or again the Jardin du Luxembourg.

I recommend staying with children in Paris for around 5 days. This gives you the opportunity to travel a bit slower and plan breaks and playtime, while still having enough time to explore the sights of Paris.

London is great for children, but Paris is as well. In Paris, most museums are free for children, and seeing the Eiffel Tower is a remarkable event. Paris has also many parks and pedestrian areas, which is good for kids to take a break.

While you can spend days visiting the Louvre, you can also follow the free masterpieces tour. It’s a self-guided tour that shows you the most famous artworks of the Louvre and lasts around 1h30. It’s perfect for families with children to see the quintessence of the Louvre without running out of patience. You get the itinerary for free at the museum.

Children from 0-3 pay no charge in the Parisian Metro. From 4 to 9 kids pay a reduced fare and from 10, the normal fee applies.

Pin it now – read it later

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Visiting Paris with family (tried-and-true Paris with kids itinerary)

After staying close to home for the past few years, we are so grateful for the chance to travel internationally again. For our first big trip as a family since the before times, we decided to take the kids to France. My husband and I visited a few years ago for our 10th wedding anniversary (see our guide for planning a romantic couples vacation in Paris here ), and the kids were so jealous and have been asking for a family trip to Paris ever since! We went in March while the kids were on spring break and had the most fabulous time. The kids loved every moment, which made it a great trip for everyone. Today we’re sharing our guide for visiting Paris with family, including where to stay in Paris with kids, tips for traveling to Paris with kids, our specific recommendations for what to do while visiting Paris with kids, and our tried-and-true Paris with kids itinerary. You’ll want to save this article if a family vacation in Paris is on your bucket list, too!

Need more france travel ideas in addition to traveling to Paris with kids? Check out these other resources:

• Everything you need to plan a romantic vacation in Paris
• What to wear for a vacation in Paris, France
• Loire Valley travel guide
• Scenic Loire Valley Chateux driving route

High-level Paris with kids itinerary

We’ve got our detailed recommendations for our Paris itinerary with kids below, but first, here’s a high-level Paris with kids itinerary to help your planning. This doesn’t include many specific restaurants (aside from Angelina), but as Paris is one of the food capitals of the world, you practically can’t go wrong wherever you decide to stop to eat.

• Eiffel Tower
• Champ de Mars
• Arc de Triomphe
• Champs-Élysées
• Château de Versailles
• Dessert at Angelina
• Musée du Louvre
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Musée Marmottan Monet OR Musée d’Orsay OR Centre Pompidou
• Cimetière du Père-Lachaise

Optional (if you have extra days):

• Disneyland Paris

Tips for traveling to Paris with family

• With Paris being a culinary mecca, there are lots of amazing restaurants, many with some dishes that could be unfamiliar to young children. Travel is always a good opportunity to experiment (my youngest loved escargot!), but if you have picky eaters, rest assured that most restaurants will have a simple pasta dish or other yummy bread and cheese starters that are very kid-friendly. Our kids especially loved all the baguettes, pastries, and croissants during our family trip to Paris.

• Be prepared for a LOT of walking. Not just in town, but at your activities. We put many, many miles in on our days at Versailles and the Louvre. For this reason, make sure the kids are prepared and make sure everyone has comfortable shoes.
• If you are visiting Paris with a family of 4 or more and intend to use Uber, you will need to order larger van Uber cars, as most of the standard Ubers in Paris fit a max of 3 people (plus the driver). The cost is a little more and you sometimes have to wait longer, but we were still able to get reasonably-priced Ubers when we needed them. The metro is also a good (and economical) option for larger groups. I don’t recommend renting a car in Paris, as driving and the narrow roads can be intense. Instead, we opted to rent a car on our way out of Paris for the rest of our France trip.
• All of the activity coupled with jet lag can make a family vacation in Paris a bit tiring. Like any trip with kids, try to pace yourself and allow buffers in your schedule for when you just need a break. On at least one night we opted to turn in early to chill at our hotel and have room service for dinner while watching French TV. It was very rejuvenating before we got back out to explore the next day.

Where to stay in Paris with kids

Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero . When we were researching the best places to stay in Paris for families, we had a few criteria in mind: a safe area, a clean and comfortable hotel with room for two adults and two pre-teen kids, easy access to our desired activities, a view of the Eiffel Tower (we wanted to make it special since it was the kids’ first trip to Paris), and a reasonable cost (knowing Paris hotels are generally pricy, especially with Eiffel Tower views). The Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero met all these needs, and we recommend it if you’re looking for where to stay in Paris with kids. I’m a die-hard Hilton gal, so I knew I could trust the level of cleanliness and service at the property, and we were not disappointed. The hotel is located in the 16th Arrondissement “steps from Jardins du Trocadero and Trocadero Metro stop. The Eiffel Tower is a kilometer away and we’re less than 10 minutes from the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, and Bois de Boulogne.” While not right in the center of everything, it was quick and easy to get where we needed to go by a quick car ride, or if you have the stamina, by walking across the Seine from the Trocadero. There are also several fantastic restaurants just on the corner. The hotel’s breakfast was incroyable , as were the other meals we tried from room service after long days exploring. We stayed in a King Junior Suite with Eiffel Tower View , and the price was very competitive considering the size of the room and the Eiffel Tower view. We were very happy with this choice of hotel and location, and would gladly stay there again.

What to do on a family trip to Paris (detailed Paris itinerary with kids)

Here are details on what we recommend checking out on a trip to Paris with family. For some context, our kids were about 10 and 12 years old when we visited, and they love museums and history, so we incorporated a lot of both into our Paris with kids itinerary. Even then, I was pleasantly surprised how engaged the kids stayed even after hours (and multiple days) of museums. Don’t underestimate how cool things like that could be from a young person’s perspective, and how it might tie-in with what they’re learning about in school.

Trocadero. One of the first things I recommend doing on a family trip to Paris is to take in the view of the Eiffel Tower from the Trocadero. This is free, and this spot across the Seine (and conveniently close to our hotel) is the perfect place to get an unobstructed view of the tower. My kids see Le Tour Eiffel as synonymous with Paris, so I wanted them to see the romance of it as soon as we could. As it can get crowded, I recommend visiting early in the morning if you’re trying to get the perfect photo opp. Though if you don’t care about the Instagram opportunity, it’s an amazing view any time of day, and you can still snap your quick photos!

Eiffel Tower . While you don’t need to do this every time you visit Paris, when traveling to Paris with kids for the first time, you should take a ride up the Eiffel Tower. I recommend getting tickets in advance. You can choose from options to visit the second floor via stairs or lift, or adding the additional lift to go all the way to the top. It is REALLY high up at the very top, so not for those who are afraid of heights. We are really glad that we made the choice to go all the way to the top. My kids still talk about it, and my youngest even wrote a short story for his class last week (6 months after the trip) on going all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower. It’s clearly a memory that sticks with little ones!

Champ de Mars. This lovely park adjacent to the Eiffel Tower is a great place to relax, picnic, enjoy some street crepes (a very fun treat for the kids to try), and get more photos of the tower from the opposite side (compared to the views from the Trocadero).

Arc de Triomphe. After seeing the quintessential Tour Eiffel, we recommend spending the rest of the first day visiting Paris with kids doing some casual, self-paced sight-seeing. We walked to the Arc de Triomphe to take in the view of the world-famous monument before walking down the Champs-Élysées.

Champs-Élysées. Whether or not your kids care to go into the shops, it’s worth even a short walk down the iconic avenue during your family vacation in Paris. Even my kids thought it was cool to see the fabulous window displays at the flagship stores for some of the world’s biggest fashion houses. There are also several restaurant options to grab a meal if you’re hungry and want to rest your legs.

Château de Versailles . As I said, we love history, so a visit to Versailles was a must for us. Even though it may seem like more of an “adult” activity, we recommend it if you are traveling to Paris with kids. Our kids hadn’t learned much about French history in school yet, but were still really intrigued and really enjoyed their time there. I love that they have this historical context now for when they do study it in history class or see it in movies. Note that a visit to Versailles is pretty much an all-day activity, and as the grounds are massive, you might not have much energy for much else in your day afterwards. To break up the day and keep things fun for the kids, we recommend taking a break between the seeing the main palace and the Trianon (which I definitely recommend seeing) with some ice cream at the stand next to the Grand Canal or even renting a boat to float around the canal. Fab Everyday Tip: We also strongly recommend renting one of the electric vehicles to get around the grounds, as it will save your legs and add something fun for the family. They only allow you to go on certain roads (so you can’t take it for a joyride) and includes an audio tour. We learned a lot about the grounds and gardens from the audio tour on the electric vehicles!

Angelina . If you’d like to feel like you’ve been transported to Paris during the Belle Époque and enjoy some fabulous desserts, you must visit Angelina while visiting Paris with kids. There are a few locations, but I recommend visiting the original location on Rue de Rivoli. Why is this such a great thing to do while visiting Paris with family? The exquisite French pastries, of course, and their famous hot chocolate – the richest, most thick and creamy hot chocolate I’ve ever had.

Musée du Louvre . One of my husband’s and my favorite spots in Paris is the Louvre, so it was important for the kids to experience it as well during our family trip to Paris. Like Versailles, the Louvre can be an all-day activity (or at least most of the day) as well, so allow time so you can pace yourself. The line can get really long, so I recommend booking your tickets in advance for a specific entry time. In addition to iconic art pieces like the Mona Lisa , The Winged Victory of Samothrace , and the Venus de Milo , you can just wander and explore for hours seeing ancient artifacts, works by the great masters, and even just people watch the artists studying and sketching. Despite our legs and feet being tired and sore, our kids wanted to keep going! It was a pleasant surprise that we had to be the ones to convince the kids when it was time to leave. We were also very happily surprised when, after returning home from our trip, the kids immediately recognized a specific painting in a scene in a movie filmed at the Louvre. It’s amazing the things that stick in their mind, creating memories and learning culture at the same time. Fab Everyday Tip: One way to keep little kids engaged at museums is to plan a little scavenger hunt to guide their exploration. For example, we said we wanted to find a piece of art by every namesake of one of the Ninja Turtles (Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael). It was a really fun challenge!

Jardin des Tuileries. This massive, historic park is a great way for the kids to use up any restless energy after visiting the Louvre. Our kids loved the playground, and though we didn’t have time to ride the carousel, it was really cool to see (and I’m assuming a fun activity while visiting Paris with kids).

Musée Marmottan Monet and/or Musée d’Orsay and/or Centre Pompidou . Depending on how many days you have for your trip to Paris with family, I recommend trying to fit in at least one of these museums. Paris is chock full of epic, world-class museums, so it can be hard to fit them all into a single trip. The Musée Marmottan Monet houses the largest collection of paintings by Claude Monet in the world, including his Waterlilies ( Nymphéas ) series and Impression, Sunrise . They also have lots of other works by other Impressionists. Musée d’Orsay (also near the Jardin des Tuileries) houses one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings in the world in the former rail station. Not just paintings; you can see sculpture, photography, and more at this museum, which features mostly French art and artists. The Centre Pompidou I’ve never visited, but I hear it has an impressive collection and lots of activities for children. If the kids are feeling a little burnt out from the traditional art museums, some of the kid-focused, hands-on workshops at Centre Pompidou could be a great change of pace.

Cimetière du Père-Lachaise. If your kids like a little bit of spooky history like mine do, you will want to visit Père Lachaise Cemetery during your family vacation in Paris. At this large cemetery you can see the graves and tombs of such historic and cultural figures as Jim Morrison, Oscar Wild, Frédéric Chopin, Marcel Proust, Édith Piaf, Jane Avril, Marcel Marceau, Honoré de Balzac, Georges Bizet, Molière, Gertrude Stein, and so many more.

Catacombes . Speaking of spooky history, if your kids wouldn’t be frightened being 20 meters underground and surrounded by the skulls and other bones of more than six million people, a visit to the Paris Catacombs is a memorable addition to your Paris with kids itinerary. We were glad to make the visit through the labyrinth and take some time to learn the history. If you’re traveling with really young kids or if anyone in your party has mobility issues, be mindful that there are no elevators… just 131 steps to go down into the Catacombs, and then another 112 steps to climb back up.

Disneyland Paris . While we didn’t have time to visit Disneyland Paris, if you are on an extended family vacation in Paris, you may wish to add this to your Paris with kids itinerary. It has been recommended to us a few times, and as it’s smaller than the parks in the US, you can experience it within a day (and more affordably than the US Disney tickets). I’ve heard it joked that you can fly to Paris for a family vacation and visit Disneyland Paris cheaper than a family trip to Disneyworld. It wouldn’t surprise me if that was true.

I hope this inspires your own trip to Paris with family! If we missed any key spots to see while traveling to Paris with kids, let us know in the comments!

More family travel ideas like this family vacation in Paris

• The Ultimate UK road trip itinerary
• Fabulous things to do in London with kids
• What to do in Liverpool and Manchester with kids
• Hunting for the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland
• Family-friendly Edinburgh
• Ireland road trip itinerary (7-day driving tour of Ireland)
• Things to do with kids in Dublin
• Visiting Sweden’s Icehotel and touring Swedish Lapland with kids
• Two days in Stockholm, Sweden in winter with kids
• One day in Helsinki, Finland with kids
• Our family’s magical Kenyan safari experience
• What to do on a long layover in Amsterdam with kids
• A weekend in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Family trip to Washington, DC
• Family vacation in Chicago for a Cubs game
• Venture out with your family to Winter Park, Colorado
• Family-friendly fun on and around the San Antonio River Walk

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15 Top Things to Do in Paris with Kids + Best Day Trips

This post contains affiliate links. Please read my affiliate disclosure .

How to Plan Your Travel Itinerary

How to get around, where to stay, what to eat.

15 Things to Do with Kids in Paris

1. eiffel tower.

2. Trocadero Gardens

3. Seine River Cruise

4. paris bike tour.

5. Rue Cler

6. St. Chapelle

7. Conciergie

8. le marais.

• Kouign Amann – comes from Brittany, the coastal region in the north of France. Its main ingredients are butter, bread dough and sugar, so very much a treat pastry. It tastes like a crunchy croissant or palmier.
• Financier – a small French almond cake, and the one we had also contained pistachio. It tasted like a Chinese almond cookie to me.
• Choquettes – bite-sizes puff pastries with pearl sugar on top. We had it served to us when we ordered coffee and tea.
• Mararons – we didn’t have them because we were so full but they looked amazing. They’re huge – like 4 times the size of a regular macaron with berries in the middle.
• Croissants – we sampled 4 different ones and our favorite was the one from Au Petit Versailles du Marais. It was soft and buttery inside and crispy and flaky on the outside.

9. Paris Catacombs

10. Sacre Coeur

11. Latin Quarter and St. Germain

12. Père Lachaise Cemetery

13. Musee d’Orsay

14. Louvre Museum

15. jardin des tuileries, 16. pont alexandre iii.

17. Place de la Concorde

18. arc de triomphe, 19. champs-élysées, 20. place de la bastille, what else did we want to see.

• Les Invalides
• Grand Palais
• Luxembourg Palace

What Not to See in Paris

Paris day trips.

D-Day Beaches (Omaha Beach)

Arromanches Les Bains

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Tracey Black, BA, is a writer, recipe developer, and creator of Don’t Mess with Mama. She has a background in health care, research, and publishing, and has been featured in The Huffington Post, Redbook Magazine, Yahoo, Women’s Day, CNET, and Today.

At DontMesswithMama.com, Tracey shares how simple it can be to make easy gluten-free meals and live more naturally, including making your own DIY skincare and cleaners, on a budget. She is also the author of the books Natural Beauty Made Simple and Instant Pot Recipes Made Simple .

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thanks for all of this helpful information. we are traveling with 3 children 9, 6 and 18 months. Wondering if you feel Versailles is doable with that age group. we would like to ride bikes but would need a hitch, do they have those to rent?

Versailles is gorgeous but very busy in the building. You could even go just to walk the grounds and enjoy the exterior, and if the lines aren’t too busy you could go inside. But honestly for my kids, who were about the same ages as yours, they didn’t care for much inside.

One Week in Paris with Kids

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One of our favorite family vacations was our week-long trip to Paris ! We packed a lot of restaurants, sights and experiences in to a short amount of time and today I’m sharing the highlights! This guide will help you plan an Amazing Week in Paris with Kids , including amazing food, all the essential sights, and maybe even a day trip to Disneyland Paris (or Versailles, if you’re so inclined).

When planning a week-long vacation, it’s easy to over-extend yourself in your efforts to pack every possible experience into your visit.

While that can sometimes work out, often it leads to frustration and disappointment. After 8 years of travelling to 15 countries with my daughter, I’ve learned a few secrets to making the best travel itineraries:

Over-estimate the amount of time needed for each location

• Plan your transit
• Have back-up plans for inclement weather
• Book tickets or reservations in advance
• Have a list or map of “bonus” activities ready.

PS – Be sure to PIN THIS POST for your future planning! Check out our full collection of Paris Travel posts here .

I also made a free printable itinerary that you can download at the bottom of this post.

There is nothing worse than rushing through one experience to get to another.

If you think an experience only needs 20 minutes, plan for an hour. If you think it needs an hour, plan for two. You can always find something close-by from the list of “bonus activities” but you’ll be frustrated (or will frustrate those you’re travelling with) if you’re cutting experiences short, or missing out on things you were looking forward to due to poor planning.

Extra time allows for crazy line-ups, unforeseen issues (like computer systems being down at an attraction), transit delays, snack stops, or lingering longer at an experience that ends up being more amazing than you thought it would be.

For example, I had no idea my daughter would love the sailboats at the Jardin de Luxembourg as much as she did. She was 7 at the time, and I thought it would bore her quickly. We could have spent three hours at the pond alone between our picnic lunch and the sailboats, let alone exploring the rest of the gardens. 

Plan Your Transit

Again, still allowing for more time than you think you’ll need. 

You’ll save tons of time on vacation if you know where the nearest metro stop is and which line you need to take to get to the next item on your itinerary. You can plan this in advance using Google Transit – be sure to set the time of day when doing your research.

(Plus, you’ll probably save money if you’re the type to get frustrated and just order a taxi or Uber if you start running out of time.)

Have Back-up Plans for Inclement Weather

I always have at least one full day of indoor activities planned and that day can easily be swapped for another day that was originally planned to be outside, but can’t. (Or you can borrow one of that day’s activities if your day is only going to be partially affected by weather.)

Know the inclement weather plans for any activities that you have to pre-purchase tickets for.

Book Tickets or Reservations in Advance

Skip-the-line tickets are essential for making the most of your vacation. The line-up at the Eiffel Tower alone can take hours if you don’t have those skip-the-line tickets. (And some locations book up fully online in advance – an issue we ran into a lot in Amsterdam.)

Have a List or Map of “Bonus” Activities Ready

When planning my vacation, I plug everything that sounds like fun into Google Maps and make a list. That way, if we’re done at a location a bit early, I can look at the map and easily find something amazing to do.

And yes, you can find things to fill time without previous planning but it’s always so disappointing to find out that there was something amazing just one block away that you missed while you were “killing time” at something less stellar. 

All that said, while planning this One Week Paris Itinerary for Kids, I tried to stick to two or three main activities per day.

This gives you flexibility to add in your own “Paris Must-Do’s” and also allows for that most wonderful of Paris experiences – long, lingering lunches. After you’re done the activity, if you find yourself with bonus time, hit up your “bonus activities” list or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. Stop in at cafes and interesting-looking shops. Take plenty of pictures. You’re in Paris! Enjoy it.

Every experience recommended here is one that we enjoyed during our trip – I haven’t included any experiences that we didn’t find enjoyable or didn’t actually experience ourselves.

Day One: Arrival

I try to keep the first day of travel flexible to account for any travel delays or possible jetlag, and plan for an early bedtime.

The first day your priorities are to check in to your hotel or Air BnB and handle any groceries or supplies that you need for the remainder of your trip.

It’s a great day to plan for casual exploration of your arrondissement and an early (but delicious) supper at a nearby restaurant. We found many wonderful playgrounds and parks in our area and stopped in at a few bakeries (for research purposes, of course). It’s also great to take note of nearby restaurants that offer delivery or quick take-out options for later in the week when you may need to adjust for earlier bedtimes for the kids. Take pictures of the menus and also note the operating hours of the business.

Day Two: Explore the City

Depending on your child’s ability to easily adjust their sleeping habits, you may want to play it nice and easy on the second day as well.

It’s a great day to book a Tuktuk tour of the city – it’s a way to see many highlights at once without tiring the kids out too much. Read our Paris by Tuktuk review here.

If it’s a nice day, grab a classic jambon-beurre sandwich from a local bakery (along with some other treats) and head to Jardin de Luxembourg. Here, you can have a casual picnic lunch, let the kids sail old-fashioned toy sailboats in the pond, stroll along the pretty gardens and check out the apiary and greenhouses.

(If it’s not a nice day, switch around Jardin de Luxembourg for Day Three’s Galleries Lafayette.)

Read more about Jardin de Luxembourg on the official Paris Tourism website . Make sure to note the closing time on the day that you are planning to visit. When we were there in the Spring, guards would not let new guests into the gardens after 4:30pm.

For supper, there are many great restaurants close to Jardin de Luxembourg:

• Angelina Paris (3 minute walk)
• Cafe Pierre Herme (6 minute walk)
• Le Bouillon Chartier (about a 30 minute walk or 9 minute taxi)

Day Three: Galleries Lafayette

We are a huge foodie family, so Galleries Lafayette had plenty to keep us happy! You can find some of Paris’s best food offerings under one roof – patisseries, truffles, fresh produce, etc etc. We ate an indulgent lunch at La Maison de la Truffe and were still stuffed by the time it came for supper at Angelina . ( Read our review of La Maison de la Truffe here .)

They also have interactive art exhibits and experiences that the kids will love. They change all of the time, but when we visited there was an indoor beach, a suspended trampoline (two stories off the ground), and a glass walk 6 stories off the ground.

We also participated in a macaron baking class led by a French pastry chef here! ( Read our review of our macaron class here .)

If you like to shop or browse, there is plenty in the main building. We purchased most of our souvenirs from Galleries Lafayettes Gourmet location (they are two separate buildings across the street from each other) but the main building had gorgeous jewelry, clothing and unique souvenirs, including commissionable paintings from a watercolor artist who works in the building.

During the summer, Galleries Lafayette boasts one of the best rooftop views of the city from its rooftop restaurant – open for breakfast and lunch.

Read our full review of Galleries Lafayette.

Day Four: 1st Arrondissement (City Center)

There is so much to do in this area of the city – the Louvre, Notre Dame, Paris Island (Pont Neuf), the Conciergerie (where Marie Antoinette was held for years), and a bit further – the Pantheon.

In addition to these obvious spots, there are many hidden gems: Berthillion ice cream, Breizh crepes, Shakespeare and Company for books, Pink Flamingo for pizza, having a picnic or snack along the Sienne, and numerous Instagram-worthy cafes.

Ella and I also made our own customized perfume at Candora, located just minutes from both Paris Island and Notre Dame. Read our full Paris Perfume making experience review here .

One of my favorite restaurants in the city is also in this area – Le Comptoir (at 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon). Around the corner is Breizh crepes, making for a delicious and indulgent evening after a day of sightseeing.

Day Five: Disneyland Paris or Versailles

We are a bonafide Disney family, so there was no way that we could go to Paris without making a day trip to Disneyland Paris.

If Disneyland isn’t your thing, there are many other day trips from Paris that will be worth your while. Older children may love Versailles, or you could take a bus to Monet’s Gardens, take a quick train ride to Brussels or Spain. I don’t recommend taking the Chunnel to London unless you’re truly okay with spending only a few short hours there, as travel will be approximately 2 hours each way.

There are shuttle buses to get to Disneyland Paris, but we found it easier to hire an Uber – it was about 120€ round trip.

I will have another post soon about What to Do at Disneyland Paris, but in short, we prioritized all of the rides and experiences that were unique to that park. While we did eat at the amazingly themed Chez Remy (super cute for a Ratatouille fan), I found the time that it took away from our day was definitely not worth the food part of the experience. I was a bit disappointed in the food at Disneyland Paris, especially considering how amazing the food at WDW and Disneyland is.

Wherever you decide to take your day trip, plan for it to take the whole day. Don’t plan on making it back in time for a dinner reservation.

Day Six: Eiffel Tower, Hot Air Balloon, Arc de Triomphe

We started off our day at Parc André-Citröen where we took a very affordable hot air balloon 300m up in the air, which provided amazing views of the whole city. My knees were like jelly for half the ride, but it was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that I highly recommend to any family heading to Paris. ( Check out our full review of our Paris Hot Air Balloon experience here .)

After checking out the gardens at Parc André-Citröen, we headed over to the Eiffel Tower and spent a good hour checking out the park and carousels surrounding it rather than scaling the structure. If you really want to go up the tower, consider purchasing skip the line tickets. The line-up alone can be several hours during peak seasons. 

Personally, I think the best Paris views should INCLUDE the Eiffel Tower, so I prefer rooftop views, the view from the steps at Sacre Couer, or the amazing view from a hot air balloon. But if you’re going to do the Eiffel Tower – do it right! Visit each of the three flours, check out the glass floor on the 1st floor, have a glass of champagne at the in-Tower restaurant or the champagne bar on the third floor, etc.

We had an amazing late lunch at La Malakoff. There are several phenomenal restaurants close to the Eiffel Tower where you can order a prix fix menu for a very reasonable price and enjoy several courses of decadent French cuisine. This is a not-to-be-missed Paris experience that many tourists overlook in their haste to get to the next experience.

Slow down . Order everything that sounds delicious. Take in the view. Enjoy how good it feels to just relax and experience a few stress-free hours with your family. (Maybe bring a book or journal for the kids if they start needing a distraction.) Order the second cocktail or a great cup of coffee. Two or three hours will pass before you know it.

After supper, we wandered over to the Arc de Triomphe and explored the side streets until we were hungry again, and then indulged in a light supper and dessert at Laudaree. (The portions were very small – so you may want to just opt for dessert instead.)

Day Seven: Walking Tour

If you have time for one more Paris activity, I always enjoy taking a food walking tour as a great way to explore part of a new city and indulge in amazing treats along the way.

In Paris, we took a Secret Food Tour in Montmartre. This 3-4 hour experience allowed us to see all of the highlights of the area (Sacre Couer, Wall of Love, and several historic spots I would have overlooked in my own planning) and then indulge in a sit-down feast with our fellow travellers. ( Check out our full review of our Secret Food Tour here .)

After the tour, we explored Montmartre a bit more. There are several small art galleries, an art walk, amazing shops, and of course, Sacre Couer. The view from the steps of Sacre Couer is arguably the best free view of Paris. You don’t even need to set foot in the building (especially if the line is super long).

If you have the rest of the day to continue exploring, hit any spots you may have missed or revisit your kids’ favorites! Ella could not get enough of the sailboats at Jardin de Luxembourg and I had to hit Galleries Lafayette one more time for some more French pastries.

Note: older kids may like the catacombs. While Ella was fascinated with the idea of them, after speaking with some friends who had visited, I decided it was probably not going to be worthwhile for us. The experience can last two hours or more (even with priority tickets), and many of my friends’ kids found them either boring or scary. You can read some reviews from other travellers here to help determine if visiting the catacombs is right for you.

Are you planning on taking your family on a Paris vacation? Let me know if you have any questions that I may be able to answer! We saw (and ate) much more than is described in this post, so I’m happy to help any way that I can!

Be sure to PIN THIS POST for your future planning! Check out our full collection of Paris Travel posts here .

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This itinerary looks great! Which area would you suggest staying in? Thanks! Dahlia

Hi Dahlia, Sorry for the delay! We stayed in Montparnasse (15th arrondissement) and found it pretty convenient to walk or take affordable ubers anywhere we wanted (if you don’t use the public transit) – but my daughter is really good about walking “like a grown-up” LOL. It had some shops and restaurants close by but was quiet and residential. I wouldn’t advise staying at the further out arrondissements as they are less walkable to attractions and the shops/restaurants may close earlier. If you can find affordable and well-rated accommodations in the 1st-11th arrondissements, they are ideal.

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Planning a family trip to Paris – Everything you need to know

Paris is on the top of so many peoples bucket lists for good reason. It’s stunning, historic, exciting and romantic but is that enough to keep the kids engaged? With a bit of careful planning then I guarantee the children will have as much fun as the adults so here’s everything you need to know to get ready for your family trip to Paris.

I first visited Paris with my parents when I was 10 and absolutely fell in love with the city. It felt both glamorous and adventurous at once. I was absolutely hooked. Since then I’ve returned many times with friends, my husband and most recently as a family of three. I love seeing the city through my daughters eyes, watching her discover all the things I saw 30 years ago. Everything has changed and nothing has changed and that is all part of the appeal of this famous city.

This post contains affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission if you book from one of these links. At no extra cost to you.

List of Contents

• 1.1 Have a French night at home
• 1.2 Learn some French words
• 1.3 Kid friendly French books to read together
• 1.4 Movies based in Paris to watch before you go
• 2 Is Paris good for kids? Really?
• 3.1 The Eiffel Tower
• 3.2 The Louvre
• 3.3 Notre Dame
• 3.4 The Natural History Museum and Jardins des Plantes
• 3.5 Musée d’Orsay
• 3.6 The Catacombs
• 4.1 Jardin Luxembourg
• 4.2 Tuileries Gardens
• 5.1 Palace of Versailles
• 5.2 Disneyland Paris
• 6.1 Big Bus Tour
• 6.2 Paris: Dark City Secrets walking tour
• 6.3 Montmartre Cheese, Wine and Pastry Tour
• 7 Where to stay in Paris with kids
• 8 What and where to eat in Paris with kids
• 9 How to get around Paris
• 10 When is the best time to book a family trip to Paris
• 11 What to pack for your family trip to Paris
• 12 Cost of a family trip to Paris

How to get excited about your family trip to Paris

A family trip to Paris is a once in a lifetime experience for many so you will want to start getting excited about your visit well in advance. Get the kids involved by talking about it often and ask them to make a list of the places they really want to visit.

Have a French night at home

We do this for most places we visit and it’s always heaps of fun. Everyone could dress in the colours of the French flag (red white and blue) with cheap berets if you can find them. Learn the words to Frère Jacques, set up a game of boules in the garden and attempt to build the Eiffel Tower out of lego. Write up a menu and serve french treats such a baguettes and cheese with macarons and crepes for pudding. If you’re feeling brave you could even serve up escargot (snails) although this may put some kids off rather than get them excited! End your evening with a France themed movie (pick from one below) and make your bedtime story one based in Paris.

Learn some French words

Make sure you learn a few words in French before you travel, this is both polite and will help the kids feel engaged when they’re there.

Bonjour – Hello

Bonsoir – Good Evening

Merci – Thank you

Pardon – Excuse me

S’il vous plaît – Please

Au revoir – Goodbye

Kid friendly French books to read together

For little kids

Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans, Eloise in Paris by Kay Thompson, A Walk in Paris by Salvatore Rubbino, Everybody Bonjours! by Leslie Kimmelman  and  Sarah McMenemy

For teens and tweens

Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell, Blade and Bone by Catherine Johnson, A Whale in Paris by Daniel Presley and Claire Polders, Mad, Bad & Dangerous  to Know by Samira Ahmed

Movies based in Paris to watch before you go

For the little kids

The Aristocats, Ratatouille, Madeline, a Monster in Paris, Hugo, The hunchback of Notre Dame

For teenagers

Before Sunset, Moulin Rouge, Les Miserables, Amelie

Is Paris good for kids? Really?

Paris can feel a little overwhelming for all of us so just imagine what it feels like for little ones. If you can keep away from ultra busy times at attractions, avoid crowds as much as possible and plan plenty of breaks then yes, Paris really is good for kids. If you have school age children then no doubt they will have learnt a bit about the city in class so will have an idea of what they want to see.

Paris is not somewhere to relax by the pool all day drinking cocktails, there is so much to see you wont want to waste a minute. Yes, it can be exhausting and you may well return with blisters on your toes and a crick in your neck from looking up at all the beautiful monuments but the memories are guaranteed to last a lifetime. Plus it’s a fabulous city for some on the go learning. I am a firm believer that travel is the best education.

“Paris is always a good idea!”

What to do in Paris with kids

Firstly, don’t feel like you have to see it all. You won’t manage it which will just result in you all being disappointed. Have a rough itinerary of the whole families “must visits” and tweak it to suit your jetlag and the weather. There will be some things you should book in advance so try to plan these later in your visit.

If you’re visiting Paris with kids, this is not the time to be a travel snob. Let them do all the touristy activities they’ve dreamed of, buy the cheap souvenirs, get their caricature painted. You can always come back to explore the endless side streets and hidden corners.

The Eiffel Tower

My number one family friendly activity in Paris has to be a trip to the Eiffel Tower. Instantly recognisable to pretty much all ages you’ll see it towering above the buildings from pretty much all over the city. You don’t need to climb it to appreciate its splendour but of course that is exactly what the kids will want to do. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to climb the steps and take the elevator to the top. It’s pretty much always busy but the views from the top are worth the effort.

Read next: Where to get the best views of the Eiffel Tower

The famous glass pyramid in Paris is another instantly recognisable sight from the City of Lights and another one the kids will definitely want to visit. There’s something so stunning about the sleek glass structure set amongst centuries old, elegant buildings. The Louvre is the largest museum in the world and home to one of the most famous paintings in existence such as the Mona Lisa which is a great reason to visit but there’s also heaps more to see and do.

You can download the Louvrekids app before your visit so kids can enjoy stories and an audio tour as they explore the museum. The Louvre is free for under 18s so if the kids get too rowdy or a bit bored you wont feel too bad about just a quick visit. Book your tickets in advance so your can skip the queues.

Notre Dame is hugely significant in French history having been used for many key events throughout its past including the coronation of Napolean I. Inside this stunning building you’ll find a secret crypt which houses ruins from some of the cities earliest settlements. It also features in many books and movies based on the city. As I’m sure you know, much of it was destroyed in a fire a few years ago and they are currently going through the slow process of the rebuild. Luckily kids will still be able to spot some of the famous gargoyles.

The Natural History Museum and Jardins des Plantes

Surely every kid loves a Natural History Museum, the one in Paris will not disappoint. Not only will they discover all the usual selection of dinosaur skeletons and lifelike models but there are also heaps of hands on exhibits including a brilliant virtual reality space. Once you’ve had your fill of the museum, head outside and explore the Jardins des Plantes, a beautiful park which was Paris’ first botanical garden. Find out more on their website .

Musée d’Orsay

Although it may feel like I’m sending you to heaps of museums, this is one more that should absolutely make your “must do” list. I’ll let you decide which others to visit. The Musee d’Orsay   is a fabulous art gallery on the banks of the river Seine. It’s alot smaller than the Louvre and contains heaps of artwork that will fascinate the kids. If they’re not impressed with the exhibits, they might find it cool that this rather grand building was once a train station.

The Catacombs

This is probably one for older kids as it’s a bit dark, literally and figuratively. These gory tunnels located under the city actually stretch for 200 miles and date back to the 13th century. Human skulls and bones line the catacombs that were left by kings in the 17th century.

Paris parks

Jardin luxembourg.

There is so much to do with kids in the Jardin Luxemburg it’s a great place to spend a warm, dry morning. There are fairground rides, a huge adventure play ground, tennis courts, a boat pond and a charming puppet theatre. Being fairly centrally located it’s easy to combine this with an afternoon at a museum. During the summer months you can rent a little boat that kids push around the pond with a stick. So simple and yet so effective! It costs around €5 for half an hours peace.

Tuileries Gardens

The Jardins des Tuileries is conveniently located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. It’s a very popular place for locals to bring their picnic chairs, a bottle of wine and relax on a sunny day. You’ll find lots of interesting sculptures, a couple of ponds and a few restaurants in the Tuileries Garden and of course space for the kids to run and play and you to have a quick sit.

Any little fashionistas will be very impressed with the fact that Paris Fashion week is normally held here.

Family day trips from Paris

Palace of versailles.

The Palace of Versailles is our favourite day trip from Paris. It’s just half an hour on the train from the city centre and is without a doubt one of the most beautiful buildings in France. Yes, it can get ridiculously busy and the gold covered interiors may not hold the little ones attention for long but the gardens and grounds are just stunning. There’s plenty of space to run around and the opportunities to learn more about France are endless. See some more photos and discover what else to do in the area in my post about visiting Versailles with kids .

I highly recommend booking skip the line tickets before you go to avoid at least some of the crowds. Get your guide always has some good value offers on tickets to Versaille .

Disneyland Paris

Whilst this is most definitely not a unique French experience to enjoy on your family trip to Paris I’m sure the kids would love a day trip at Disneyland to shake up the vacation. It’s easy to get a train from central Paris to Disneyland and although not quite as big as the parks in the US you’ll still meet all your favourite characters and get to try out heaps of family friendly rides.

Prebook your tickets to Disneyland Paris and save yourselves some time when you arrive. It’s currently £48 per person for a full day pass.

Paris tours for families

Organised tours are a great way to get to grips with a city, you’ll often pick up lesser known facts about a city and discover secret spots you may want to return to at a later date.

Big Bus Tour

We take these bus tours in most cities we visit, normally on our first day in a destination. It’s a great way to understand the layout of a place and figure out which parts are worth returning to. On our most recent trip to Paris we only had 1 day in the city and managed to cover most of the big sights by using the bus. You can read more about it in our guide to Paris in just one day .

You can tailor your bus ticket to one or two days if you have a bit longer. Pre-book your hop on hop off Paris bus ticket on Get Your Guide to save time.

Paris: Dark City Secrets walking tour

Older kids will love learning about the darker side of Paris on this 2 hours night walk. You’ll discover the sights of executions, Paris’ prisons, famous ghosts and the demons of Notre Dame. Click here to book your Paris by night tour .

Montmartre Cheese, Wine and Pastry Tour

A big part of your visit to Paris will be the amazing food. Montmartre is a stunning neighbourhood and packed full of charming shops  full of treats to try. This 3 hour walking tour includes a great introduction to the area, exploring the narrow cobblestone streets and stunning mansions with a heavy focus on local artisan offerings. You’ll try pastries, cheese, wine and charcuterie leaving you with full tummies and a greater understanding of the city.

Book your Montmartre food tour .

Where to stay in Paris with kids

For me there is no right or wrong neighbourhood to stay in Paris with kids. Most of them will include at least one thing you want to visit and you’ll have to hop on the metro to get to any others. When visiting Paris with teenagers or as adults only I recommend the artistic district around the Moulin Rouge, it has a brilliantly bohemian feel and plenty to see as you wander around in the evening.

For younger kids, a good option is the 7th arrondissement which is near the Eiffel Tower. My daughter loves catching a glimpse of the tower as soon as we leave our hotel or rental. Marais near the Champs Elysees is another good option, being fairly central and low key relaxed.

I recommend finding a rental apartment for your time in Paris. They tend to give you much more space and are more economical than hotel rooms. A rental also means you’ll be able to prepare some of your own meals and have a separate space to relax in when the kids have gone to bed.

Book your rental apartment in Paris on VRBO.

If you do prefer hotels I recommend Le Bristol  near the Champs Elysees for a fabulously luxurious stay. It has a playground and kids club and is stunningly designed.

Check the best prices for your stay at Le Bristol .

For those with a slightly more modest budget then try the Best Western Plus La Demeure  in the Latin Quarter. It’s still very beautiful and in a great location for a relaxed stay.

Check the best prices for your stay at the Best Western Plus La Demeure

What and where to eat in Paris with kids

I don’t really have any favourite restaurants in Paris, we just tend to stop when we are hungry and find somewhere we like the look of. This works best if you head into the side streets off the beaten path a bit. That way you wont get caught out in a ridiculously priced tourist trap.

Cafes and bistros tend to be more relaxed and family friendly than restaurants which also open later.

You’ll also find plenty to keep you going throughout the day in patisseries, delicatessens and boulangeries. Just buy what you fancy fresh in the morning and enjoy a picnic taking in some of those gorgeous Parisien views. You’ll see many locals enjoying a wine with lunch on pretty blankets watching their kids run through the grass. Presuming you’re not driving (and I don’t recommend it in Paris!) this is a lovely way to wind down after a morning exploring.

How to get around Paris

For most cities we visit we like to walk. That way we notice the little things as we go, feel energised through the exercise and can take it at our own place. Paris is a very walkable city with many, many street cafes and parks to stop in when you need a break. If you choose a couple of spots you want to visit and walk from A to B it’s perfectly doable.

However, if you’re a bit tight on time you’ll need to use the metro system. Whilst it is a bit old and creaky in parts it’s almost as much of a must do as a visit to the Eiffel Tower when you’re in the city. The metro has 16 lines and over 300 stations. There’s bound to be one close to where you want to go. The stations are divided into zones and you can buy tickets based on which zones you want to visit.

Another option is a hop on hop off bus tour. Whilst this is a more expensive choice you’ll see so much being overground and they tend to visit all the big sights.

When is the best time to book a family trip to Paris

In our experience there is no good or bad time to visit Paris. There’s just differences in weather so pack appropriately! The summer months of July and August are when many Parisiens escape the heat of the city to visit the coast so the city may feel quieter. Although this is also when Europeans are enjoying their school summer holidays so tourist attractions will probably feel busier. Christmas is absolutely charming in Paris, although cold and busy.

I would say just keep your eye out for cheap tickets and go as soon as you can!

What to pack for your family trip to Paris

Things you’ll definitely want to pack include:

• A portable power bank
• Small rucksack for essentials
• Reusable water bottle
• A decent camera
• Trainers or walking shoes for the whole family
• Prescription medicine and any specific over the counter brands that suit the kids
• A money belt
• Copies of passports and vaccination certificates
• European adapters
• Suitable clothes for exploring, simple outfits can easily be dressed up with colourful accessories

If you can avoid bringing a stroller I would. Whilst kids may get tired quickly walking the streets of Paris, strollers often wont fit in the smaller cafes and restaurants, up the Eiffel Tower or in some metro stations. Schedule in plenty of breaks instead, hop on a carousel or pick up a couple of macarons.

Cost of a family trip to Paris

Paris can be a great value option from the UK, the Eurostar is cheap and fast and takes you right into the city. You’ll also find many low cost flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle which will get you there in an hour. From the US I’d budget around $750 each for flights. I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. I love that you can see all the prices for each day so you can plan the best price for within a date range.

A nice hotel room for a family will be around £250 a night with rentals a little less.

For a one way metro ticket you can expect to pay €7

A meal in a restaurant is around €15 per person but you can easily cut this back by packing picnics and eating in.

Attraction tickets can easily add up with a trip up the Eiffel tower coming in at over €50 per person. Splurge on the things you really want to visit and spend the rest of your time exploring the city on foot. It’s free and just as pretty!

You will be able to use credit and debit cards in most places in Paris so don’t bring too many Euros however you will want some for tips, buskers, snacks and taxis if you use them.

Do not forget to factor in the cost of travel insurance for your family trip to Paris. This is so important wherever you are travelling around the world, especially now plans can be forced to change at the last minute.

Are you planning a family trip to Paris? Feel free to pop any questions in the comments below.

If you have longer to spend in France then don’t just restrict yourselves to Paris, it is such a beautiful and diverse country. Have a look at my 2 weeks in France road trip itinerary to discover all the best places to visit and get an idea of distance.

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Paris with children : outings for kids and parents

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Paris City Tour

Experience an immersive Paris city tour boarding a panoramic bus. Discover the main neighborhoods and Paris monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Invalides, The Paris city hall and substantially more, with a commentary with individual earphones.

Louvre museum visit with app to download (reserved access)

Explore the Louvre freely by downloading an app on your phone for detailed info on key artworks. With your e-ticket and audioguide link received by email, enjoy reserved access.

Roundrip transportation Versailles/Paris (half-day)

You already have your ticket or you wish to book it by yourself, take our shuttle to the castle of Versailles.

City Tour and Seine Cruise

Discover Paris through a Seine cruise and a sightseeing tour in a panoramic bus. Enjoy comments adapted to all on our mobile app and discover the history of the most emblematic monuments such as the Louvre, the Opera, the Champs Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel tower, the Invalides…

TootBus Ticket - Pass 1 day

Paris at your own pace

1 Day E-Ticket Big Bus Hop on Hop off Pass

Take advantage of a one or two-day pass to visit Paris in total freedom at your own pace aboard a double-decker Big Bus. Hop on and off as you please with one of the two tours offered. Discover the must-see sites of Paris while listening to the city's history through a recorded audio commentary available in several languages.

Shuttle from the center of Paris to Disneyland Paris

Easy and safe transportation to and from Disneyland Paris parks on an air-conditioned bus. Discover Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios at your own pace.

2 Day Paris Museum Pass

The Pass ticket formula gives you two consecutive days of access to all partner museums and monuments. Ideal to visit Paris at your own convenience!

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access from Versailles

Come discover the Palace of Versailles leaving from Versailles. An expert guide will accompany you as you discover the history of French kings by visiting their superb apartments and the incomparable Hall of Mirrors. 

Eiffel Tower Ticket with reserved Access and Mobile App

Use this ticket with reserved access to visit the 1st and 2nd floors of the Eiffel Tower while avoiding as much as possible queues. Be amazed by the exceptional view of the most famous monuments of Paris. Enrich your visit with historical comments available via audiopen or mobile application. Sail on the Seine, choosing the cruise option.

Versailles Half Day Audio Guided Tour of the Palace from Paris with transportation

Half a day to visit the Palace of Versailles at your own convenience. Audio guides available for the grand apartments of the Palace. Free time in the French-style gardens. Excursion departing from Paris

Paris with kids: tourist sites and attractions

A visit to the Eiffel Tower still is a quintessential experience and a perfect outing for children in Paris . The whole family – parents included – will enjoy the thrill of standing 100 meters above the streets of Paris. A cruise on the Seine will also delight children as they discover Paris with their family because it creates a genuine sense of adventure. Children will also love a tour of Paris on a panoramic bus as they discover a steady stream of new, impressive monuments.

Are you spending several days in Paris with your family ? Explore the theme parks located outside the city: plan a trip with the kids to Disneyland® Paris or the Parc Astérix in the steps of the implacable Gauls. Another great family activity in Paris is a day trip to Province; your children will love spending a day immersed in a town from the Middle Ages. Parents and children will both love the Musée Grévin , where they will admire the impressively realistic statues of worldwide celebrities. Finally, your kids will not want to miss the visit to the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie , where they will learn a lot in an incredibly entertaining way.

Paris City Vision wishes you an unforgettable family vacation in Paris, in which you enjoy lots of activities and outings that your kids love.

5 Day Itinerary For Paris : Family Vacation

August 26, 2022

Visiting Paris on a family vacation is a dream. But it can be a big task to see everything the city has to offer, especially when traveling with kids. We were lucky to have our friend, who lives in France, create a 5 day itinerary for Paris for us; so we are sharing this with you to help you maximise your time in the city.

We are also going to share our observations of Paris, from cultural differences, to tips on visiting Paris with a teen!

Paris Family Vacation

Paris is a great idea for a family vacation for so many reasons. The culture, the history, the food and the atmosphere is such a great experience for kids and for families. As a homeschool family we also incorporate teaching / learning into our travels everywhere we go and Paris was a dream trip. Payton was able to learn necessary words / phrases and customs before arrival that greatly enhanced her experience.

I was an exchange student in Paris more than 25 years ago but didn’t freshen up on my French before arrival. Payton was definitely more prepared than the two of us and was often ordering for us in restaurants, asking for the check and directing us on the subway. We were proud of how much she learned prior to arrival and the way she adapted while in the city.

5 Day Paris Itinerary for a Family

It’s good to group activities together in concentrated areas. But there are also times when you have to change up your itinerary to suit the weather! Thanks to having Hannah, from HH Lifestyle Travel , on hand for the first few days; we were able to shuffle the itinerary to make the most of some sunny weather in between the spring rain.

Day 1: Ballon de Paris, Eiffel Tower, River Cruise, Trocadero

Optional extras: Paris Aquarium, Musée de Quai Branly

Ballon de Paris

Start your day at the Ballon de Paris. This tethered pollution-monitoring balloon has a platform below and offers great views out over the city. It doesn’t run in fog, or if bad weather is predicted later in the day.

Eiffel Tower

Make your way to the Eiffel Tower (it pays to buy skip the line tickets during high season), and enjoy the experience of going up the grand old ‘iron lady’. Don’t bother going to the restaurant at the top of the tower, there are much better places to eat.

River Cruise

After lunch, take a river cruise along the Seine – the boats leave from just opposite the Eiffel Tower (and many other major spots along the river). This helps you orientate yourself and see parts of Paris you may not reach during your 5 days in the city. DON’T bother with the river cruises that offer meals – they are overpriced and the food isn’t very good. A simple hour-long river cruise with commentary is a great way to kick-off your Paris visit.

After your river cruise, meander over the road and up through the Trocadero Gardens – gaining elevation and more stunning views out over the Eiffel Tower. If you are super keen, visit Trocadero at dawn for sunrise over the Tower.

Tips for American families

You can’t visit Paris without visiting the Eiffel Tower and this was definitely our most touristy day. The skip the lines tickets were worth every penny. There was some fog on the day we visited but that is something that cant be controlled. We made the best of it and the views were still amazing. I am sure on a clear day you would be able to see much more of the city from the top. We had some extra time on our hands between the Eiffel Tower and our river cruise and decided to have coffee at a cute cafe at the base of the tower. Lesson learned – the most expensive coffee ever!

The river cruises offer indoor and outdoor seating options so weather isn’t a concern for this activity. It was very cool and windy so we choose to stay indoors with the heat. The views were still spectacular and unobstructed. The commentary is offered in English as well as many other languages.

Trocadero Gardens across the road is definitely worth the walk. The views are some of the best of the Eiffel Tower and a great spot for instagram worthy fun photos. Beware of the multiple locals offering to take your photos. They are not trying to be nice but looking to be paid for their time. After photos we found a very nice restaurant in this area called Le Coq where we enjoyed a very nice upscale lunch before a busy afternoon.

Food options in Eiffel Tower area

This is a very touristy area, so prices are higher. If you are on a budget, consider taking a picnic or eating at one of the crêperie kiosks in the Trocadero Gardens. A casual restaurant option is Le New York, and the terrace still affords tower views.

If you want to partake in the very best views of the Eiffel Tower while in the area, we recommend Girafe or Les Ombres (the rooftop restaurant at Musée de Quai Branly). They both require advance booking, and the latter is fine dining. Les Ombres was our favorite restaurant during our stay. It was the perfect mix of food and atmosphere and the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower.

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Day 2: ‘I Love You’ Wall, Montmartre, Galeries Lafayette & Shopping

Optional extras: Tuileries, Place Vendome

Montmartre is one of the most famous arrondissements in Paris. Some people know about it because of it’s ancient Gallo-Roman history, but most people know it as the epicentre of Belle-Epoque artistry and antics. And then of course there’s Moulin Rouge!

Start at Abbesses metro station (be sure to take the elevator, otherwise you’ll have to climb 460 steps); and visit the ‘I Love You’ wall. Le mur des je t’aime has ‘I love you’ written 311 times in 250 languages. It is free to visit and is a lovely heartwarming stop on your tour of Montmartre.

A walk up the gardens to Sacré-Cœur is a must, although if you can also choose to take the funicular, but the views aren’t so splendid.

Other places to visit in Montmartre include Place du Tertre, where artists sell their paintings and restaurants take over the square in summer. The Dali Museum showcases the weird and wonderful mind of this famous artist. Take your turn as some of the most instagrammable spots, La Maison Rose, Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Le Passe-Muraille. And see a the urban vineyard, Vignes du Clos Montmartre, which produces a small batch of wine for charity each year.

Galeries Lafayette & Shopping

While you can spend the whole day at Montmartre, if you are trying to pack a lot into your 5 days in Paris, you may choose to keep your days busy and fruitful. The view from the top of Galeries Lafayette department store is worth a visit alone, but the shopping in the area is pretty good too.

Food options

In Montmartre, Le Relais Gascon is a great traditional bistro located between Pigalle and Abbesses metro stations. Serving southern French favourites like Tartiflette and Cassoulet, plus all the usual standards, it’s a good value pitstop.

If you’ve shopped a little too much in Galeries Lafayette and need a snack there are many cafe options inside. Or if you’re feeling snazzy and your kids have adventurous tastes like ours, try Kaspia Caviar bar!

Notes from the Biggers Family

The I Love You Wall and Sacré-Cœur are a must. I remember visiting Sacré-Cœur 25 years ago and the atmosphere is still wonderfully the same. The hill is covered with people relaxing, socializing and enjoying the amazing views of the city. It was a very nice experience. No one was in a hurry. Just enjoying a sunny afternoon outside. We also took a trolley from this area for some additional site seeing. The cost was $7 USD per person. 

Day 3: Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, Ladurée, Napoleon’s Tomb

Optional extras: Pont Alexandre III, Petit Palais

Arc de Triomphe

Take a walk from the Arc de Triomphe, down and across the river, stopping along the way at some of Paris’s most famous landmarks. Take the underground passages to get to the Arc (both the stairs up it and to see beneath it). You can buy your tickets in advance , although there isn’t usually much of a queue unless you visit in the height of summer.

Champs Elysées and Ladurée

Time to wander down the Champs Elysées. We don’t recommend you spend a lot of time in the shops or eating along this famous boulevard – it’s pricey! But a stop at Ladurée for morning tea or a box of macarons is a must!

Napoleon’s Tomb or Petit Palais

There are a few options for things to do in the afternoon – we chose to walk all the way down the Champs Elysées and across to Napoleon’s Tomb and the military museum .

Tips from our family to yours

We chose to take the stairs to the top of the Arc and I do recommend it. It is a climb but it is worth it. We did not purchase our tickets in advance and in early April the line was very short. The views are phenomenal. Since this was Payton’s birthday trip we chose to shop along the Champs Elysées. We stopped in Ladurée for macarons, a cafe for coffee and hot chocolate and Gucci for new sneakers.

Hopefully it was a birthday she won’t soon forget. This was our most leisurely day with no timed events or schedules. We walked, we shopped, we ate and we spent birthday money. It’s important to build these kinds of days into your family itinerary for Paris, as you don’t want to burn out!

Day 4: Notre Dame, Left Bank, Pantheon, Rue Mouffetard, Montparnasse Tower

Optional extras: Sainte Chapelle, Luxembourg Gardens, Catacombs, Montparnasse Cemetery

The famous Left Bank of Paris is famous for books, writers and intellectuals… but is also an ancient part of the city, with some incredible sights to see. Start at the Notre Dame church. While it was severely damaged by fire in 2019, it is due to reopen in 2024. The Archaeological Crypt of the Île de la Cité located under Notre Dame is still open and is a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of Paris.

Cross the river to admire the UNESCO World Heritage Bouquinistes (book sellers along the river) and visit the famous Shakespeare & Co bookshop .

Walk away from the river, and up the hill (Montagne Sainte-Geneviève) to the Pantheon. This grandiose former church is now the resting place for many of France’s most revered citizens – Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Èmile Zola, Marie Curie and most recently, Josephine Baker. It is also home to the Foucault Pendulum, which demonstrates the earth’s rotation.

Rue Mouffetard

Rue Mouffetard starts nearby at Place de la Contrescarpe, a fantastic place for a coffee or apéritif. It is one of the oldest streets in Paris, and you can enjoy this ancient and wonky street and all the markets and shops along it.

Montparnasse Tower

Take a bus, metro or taxi (or walk if you have the energy) over to the Montparnasse Tower at dusk, and take in the most stunning 360-degree views of Paris from the observation deck.

Food Options

South of the river is ripe with great food options. From the budget prix fixe menus of the Left Bank, to the hip bars of Place de la Contrescarpe – there is something for every budget and taste. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte at 101 Boulevard du Montparnasse is a favorite for us; but be warned, you’ll have to queue because it’s so popular (but it’s worth it). It only serves steak – so not for vegetarians!

Experiencing the Leftbank as a family

The Left Bank provided a great deal to see and do and lots of walking. The Montparnasse Tower is a must as the views are amazing. You can choose day and night tickets so that you may visit twice to see it in both lights. I highly recommend the skip the line tickets. The restaurant Le Relais de l’Entrecote was one of our favorites even with the long wait. I recommend arriving very early. It was such a fun restaurant but only if you love steak. Just tell them how you like it cooked because that is your only option; and if you clean your plate of fries they will bring you more. And that sauce – there are no words but let’s just say best steak sauce ever.

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Day 5: Louvre, Marais, Pompidou

Optional Extras: Musée d’Orsay, Sainte-Chapelle

If there is only one museum to visit while in Paris, it’s the Louvre. Not just to see the infamous Mona Lise, but also because it is one of the most important cultural institutions in Paris. You can buy skip the line passes, or even take a small group guided tour to ensure you see all the highlights with ease.

A wander round the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris is a delight. It has hidden courtyards, cobbled streets, ancient gallerias; not to mention wonderful shops and cafes.

To counter the classical art of the Louvre, we have added the modern art gallery, The Pompidou Center, to the itinerary. Even if you don’t go inside, the building itself is quite famous on its own; the inside workings are all on the outside, including an escalator!

The Biggers take on the Louvre

The Louvre was definitely one of our favorite experiences in all of Paris. Payton loves art and history and there is nowhere in the US that can come close to the thousands of years of history and art in the Louvre. Every room was more and more astonishing. I think the 3 or of could have stayed here for days. I highly recommend the skip the line tickets here as the lines were very long. Upon arrival, take a look at the map and choose the items or areas you want to see the most. There is no way to see it all so you definitely want to focus on your top items instead of wandering aimlessly. 

Food in Paris

I am not sure where to begin when it comes to the food in Paris. Phenomenal would be understatement. We made sure to sample a variety of restaurants throughout the city. During our 5 days in Paris, we visited cafes, authentic restaurants, touristy areas, and 5 star Michelin restaurants.

We are all foodies but Payton will try absolutely anything. She had been wanting to try steak tartare and had the chance to enjoy it twice while in Paris. She loved it and is still talking about it. Payton also enjoyed escargot and caviar more than once and indulged in chocolate and hot chocolate every day. If we have to choose, our favorite restaurants were Les Ombres and Cave la Bourgogne.

Visiting Paris with Teens

I think the teen years are the perfect time to visit Paris as a family. It is such a different culture than America. At the cafes along the street, all of the chairs face out instead of facing each other. You sit back, relax, take in the scenery and enjoy the time together. It was amazing the difference of how few people were on their phones at the table. The meals were enjoyed at a much slower pace. And almost everyone walked everywhere.

We averaged 5 miles a day during our time in the city. It was so different to see local markets on the street with vegetables and a butcher shop next door. No Walmart anywhere in sight.

Not to mention the history is something you can’t experience here in the US as we are such a young nation. To really see art and buildings that are many hundreds of years old is something you can’t just tell your kids about.

I don’t think Payton would have appreciated this 5 day itinerary for Paris, or enjoyed it as much as a young child. I really think the teen years are the perfect time to visit as a family. It also gave her a chance to learn some of the language, the history and the customs before arriving which made her experience even that much more meaningful. Kids can read a hundred books describing a place or they can jump in and experience it for themselves and never forget it. 

5 Day Itinerary For Paris

Paris is a bucket list for many families – from the famous sights to the cultural ‘wow’ moments – it is a fascinating destination for any age group. Enrich your family with lots of history, learn some french words or just enjoy the beauty of the place. A 5 day itinerary for Paris is jam-packed, and we would recommend at least 7 days if you want to take it a bit slower.

We also took a day trip to Reims (the unofficial capital of Champagne country) while we were there; and there are lots more day trips to add on if you want to see more of France. If you want to visit Paris with your family, get in touch and we would be happy to help you plan a visit!

Let us help you plan your family vacation to Paris, with our full service Travel Agency !

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12 thoughts on “5 Day Itinerary For Paris : Family Vacation”

I am planning to take a 5days trip to Paris in January 2023 for a couple people, please let me details and the cost per person.

Please email me and I would be happy to provide you with more information – [email protected]

Hi Michelle, my name is also Michelle 🙂

Me and my family are travelling to Paris for 5 days as well (Mar. 25-31). I would like to check where did you purchase your tickets in all the places you visit. Did you purchase it in advance or just there when you arrive? Also, your ticket on the cruise.

Thanks for your help.

We have a couple of different vendors that we use. I will email you the links to them. Enjoy your trip and let me know if you have other questions!

Looks like a great “plan”. Would like to take our 3 grandchildren this year – girls 15 & 16; boy 12. I think we would have to add the catacombs to the 5-day itinerary but looks doable. Evening activities with kiddos is usually hard for me to plan. And lodging for five is also challenging. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.

Yes, finding adjoining rooms can be hard. For that, I suggest one of the bigger chain hotels, and more modern builds. Try Holiday Inn, Ibis and Sheratons. Evening activities shouldn’t be too hard, as things tend to stay open until a bit later in France (because of the long lunch / late dinner). We hope you have a great time!

Hello, I am traveling to Paris in March with my teen and 11yr old. Can you recommend which area is the the best place to stay and is centrally located. Also any hotel recommendations for a family for 4. Thank you!

Anywhere in the arrondissements – 1,2,5,6,9,10,18 are all easy to get around and ok for families. We stayed out in La Villette, at the new Holiday Inn Express. It was a little further out, but still within central Paris. Around Opera is nice and clean, has lots of hotel options.

Please. Let me know of places to purchase attraction tickets and any ideas for a family of teens and a 7 yr old , August 2023– 5 days

We recommend Viator .

– A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to get orientated with kids

– The Eiffel Tower , obviously!

– Payton loved the river cruise.

– There’s also Paris Disneyland too!

HI we are planning to travel to Parise and Brussle from March 29th to April 6th.

can you please suggest the best ways to travel with kids I have one teen girl and one boy.

where did you buy all the tickets?

must visit this is the first trip for kids in the EU

The easiest way is by train – very simple and fast! Visit SNCF for train tickets.

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Where To Stay In Paris: 12 Best Arrondissements & Why Families Love Them

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With so much to do, see, and eat, deciding on where to stay in Paris or the best arrondissement for families isn’t always easy. Luckily, we’ve put together this great guide to help you get started, compiling suggestions from the 1st Arrondissement to the 18th! Arrondissement doesn’t directly translate to a neighborhood (it’s more like a “borough”). But we’ve sorted them this way for the sake of easy classification when visiting as a tourist. Within these larger Arrondissements, you’ll find some of the most famous and vibrant districts in Paris; from Montmartre to Le Marais, The Latin Quarter, and more. In addition to things to do with kids in Paris, we’ve also included where to stay with kids. So, next time you’re ready for a Parisian adventure, read this list of Where To Stay In Paris For Families! 

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1st Arrondissement: The Louvre and Tuileries

The 1st Arrondissement is a great place for families who want to stay near the most famous attractions in Paris. Known for its chic shops, cafes, and restaurants, many of the streets are pedestrian-only and easy to explore with kids. Not to mention, it’s in the city center and well-connected to the rest of Paris by Metro.

From Place Vendôme to Palais Royal, there are lots of historic attractions to see. One of the biggest is the iconic Louvre Museum , home to some of the most priceless art in the world, including the Mona Lisa! Families can also visit Musee de l’Orangerie or Musee des Arts Decoratifs. When you want to enjoy the sunshine, visit the gorgeous Tuileries Gardens . It’s perfect for a picnic lunch or a game of hide-and-seek. 

Families who looking for the best areas to go shopping in Paris will love the convenience of Châtelet – Les Halles , one of the city’s biggest shopping districts. Browse chain stores along Rue de Rivoli or head to the Forum-des-Halles , an underground shopping mall with three floors! Since it’s located along the River Seine, The 1st Arrondissement is also a great getaway to some of the most scenic and oldest bridges in Paris, like Pont Neuf and Pont Des Arts. With a bustling late-night food scene and plenty of family-friendly hotels, no wonder this is one of the best areas to stay in Paris as a family! 

Explore T he Paris Pass by Go City for discounted museum tickets here!

Best Hotels in the 1st Arrondissement for Families

Wondering where to stay in the 1st Arrondissement with your kids? We have a few suggestions, so keep reading for our Paris arrondissements guide!

• The Mandarin Oriental, Paris is located a few blocks from the Tuileries Gardens and just 15 minutes away from the shops at the Champs-Élysées. There’s an indoor pool, a spa, and some rooms have separate living room areas. 
• Le Meurice lets families stay in an opulent, 19th-century building right across from the Tuileries Gardens. Only a 5-minute walk from the nearest metro, it’s also only 15 minutes away from The Louvre. Rooms are decorated lavishly, and suites offer separate living room areas.
• Ritz Paris is one of the oldest hotels in the city. Overlooking Place Vendôme, it’s perfectly situated between the Champs-Élysées and The Louvre Museum . There’s also an indoor pool and themed suites with garden views. 
• Hôtel Régina Louvre offers families a wonderful vacation near The Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens. Rooms come with king or double beds while suites have separate living room areas. 
• Hotel Brighton is located in a cozy historic building, also near The Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens. Families love the comfortable, no-frills rooms, stunning lobby, and convenient location. 

For more information on where to stay in Paris with kids, read this list of the Best Paris Hotels for Families with Pools or Kids’ Programs ! 

2nd Arrondissement: Bourse and Montorgueil

Though it’s smaller than other popular destinations in the city, the 2nd Arrondissement is a fantastic option for families looking for one of the best places to stay in Paris with a laid-back feel . Centrally located near the 1st Arrondissement and easy to navigate, it’s more of a local neighborhood than a tourist hub since it’s the garment district and filled with wholesale stores. Still, there are plenty of things to do and see, including some of the best “covered passage” shopping arcades.

Families can explore interesting architecture, pedestrian-only market streets, and adorable jewelry shops. West of Avenue de l’Opéra , you’ll find ritzy designer boutiques and fine dining restaurants. A bit further north, the trendy Grand Boulevards neighborhood houses Le Grand Rex, one of the oldest movie theaters in Paris. Kids will love spotting the flashy neon Art Deco sign! 

In the Bourse district, named after the Paris Stock Exchange , save time to stroll the pedestrian-only streets of Rue Montorgueil. It’s lined with the area’s most coveted restaurants and cafes, markets, and bakeries. Families can also visit Place des Victoires , a historic square featuring elegant architecture, upscale stores, and a statue of Louis XIV. Covered passageways or “arcades” like Galerie Vivienne also offer a selection of quirky vintage shops.

Meanwhile, the Passage des Panoramas attracts young kids with antique toy shops. If you’re in the mood for ramen or Japanese food, you’ll love the city’s Japanese quarter along Rue Sainte-Anne. History buffs will appreciate a visit to La Tour Jean-Sans-Peur, a fortified tower from the medieval period. At the eastern end of the neighborhood, families can visit hip bistros in Sentier.

Reserve your Big Bus tour and discover iconic Parisian landmarks!

Best Hotels in the 2nd Arrondissement for Families

As one of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris with kids , there are plenty of hotel options for families to choose from in the 2nd Arrondissement. Here are two of our favorites!

• Park Hyatt Paris – Vendome is a wonderful option for families who want to stay just a few minutes away from Place Vendôme. Rooms are spacious by Paris standards, and some even come with balconies or kitchenettes.  
• Kimpton St Honoré Paris , located in Paris’s Opera neighborhood, is an excellent luxury hotel option for families. Rooms have king beds and city views, plus there’s also an indoor pool and rooftop bar for parents to unwind at the end of the day.

3rd Arrondissement: Haute Marais

The 3rd Arrondissement , or Haute Marais, is another nice choice for families searching for the best area to stay in Paris. Buzzing with lively cafes, trendy shops, tasty restaurants, amazing nightlife, and some of the best museums in Paris, it’s centrally located and has a lot of green spaces for kids to run around. Le Marais, a historic part of the city shared by the 4th arrondissement, continues at the borders of the 3rd. Still, it offers a quieter alternative to the bustling crowds of Rue de Rosiers and Rue Vieille du Temple further south. Haute-Marais (northern Marais) is also home to the lovely Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, a trendy shopping street. Kids will love strolling through scenic passageways like the Pass de l’Ancre, a charming walkway dotted with colorful shops. 

Art lovers can’t miss seeing some of Pablo Picasso’s best paintings at the Picasso Museum , which is located in a lavish, 19th-century mansion. Of course, don’t forget about the Centre Culturel Suedois , with its gorgeous, green courtyard and temporary exhibits. Families interested in learning more about Paris’s interesting history shouldn’t hesitate to explore the permanent collection at the Musée des Arts et Métiers or the Musée Carnavalet . It covers everything from the medieval period to Renaissance, the Revolutionary period, and beyond. For the best international food stalls in Paris, look no further than the Marché des Enfants Rouge. This is one of the oldest covered markets in the city and a great place to try some eclectic street food! 

Where to Stay in the 3rd Arrondissement with Kids

When staying in the 3rd Arrondissement, most families opt for a home rental. When you’re ready to search for a rental in the 3rd Arrondissement, check Vrbo or Plum Guide for the best options.

4th Arrondissement: Beaubourg, Le Marais, and the Ile St-Louis

The 4th Arrondissement is certainly one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris with your family. From trendy shops to historic sites, bustling cafes, and great restaurants, this charming arrondissement is located along the right bank of the Seine River . You’ll find three popular Paris districts here: Le Marais, Beaubourg, and Ille St. Louis.

Le Marais is a great place for families visiting Paris, known for its art galleries, shops, and family-friendly parks/playgrounds. Enjoy the fresh air at the Place des Vosges , a great place to bring a picnic. Le Marais is also within walking distance of some of Paris’s most popular attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Plus, it’s a prime nightlife spot, a hub for shopping, and home to the city’s Jewish Quarter. Walk down Rue des Rosiers and through “ Le Pletzl” to try some fantastic kosher food! 

Beaubourg, a bustling district, is another great choice for families to stay in Paris. Home to excellent museums, kids who are art lovers can’t miss The Centre Pompidou or The National Museum of Modern Art . There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants, as well as some parks and playgrounds. Plus, Beaubourg is within walking distance of popular Paris attractions like the Louvre and N otre Dame Cathedral (located on the nearby Île Saint-Louis).

Ideal for families who want a more relaxed vacation, Île Saint-Louis is a small island situated on the Seine River. Families can descend underground to the nearby Roman Paris Lutetia Archaeological Crypt and get a glimpse of life during Roman times. Then, treat yourself to an ice cream from Berthillon , one of the best dessert spots in Paris! ​​

Reserve this Notre Dame Outdoor Walking Tour with Crypt Entry with Viator here!

Where to Stay in the 4th Arrondissement with Kids

Many families looking for a place to stay in the 4th Arrondissement choose to rent an apartment. Book your next stay in the 4th Arrondissement using Vrbo today! Alternatively, Plum Guide has some great, high-end options for families in the 4th Arrondissement!

For more delicious desserts in Paris, check out this list of 9 Amazing Places for Pastries and Desserts in Paris For Families ! 

5th Arrondissement: The Latin Quarter

The 5th Arrondissement is one of the oldest Paris neighborhoods and definitely worth a visit for families. Located on the left bank of the Seine, it comprises the Latin Quarter, a hub for students thanks to its many high schools, universities, and local bookshops. The Saint-Michel district is perfect for history buffs who want to learn more about this fascinating area. Wander down the Boulevard Saint Michel or Rue Saint Jacques to discover the Musée National du Moyen Age (Cluny Museum) and Hotel de Cluny, The Panthéon, or the Place Saint-Michel. Kids will love exploring the bookshops in and around this public square, since most of them flaunt bright neon signs. 

Rue Mouffetard is another notable picturesque street, filled with shops selling fresh produce or fruit. You could easily spend a few hours simply soaking up the vibrant ambiance and getting lost in its various nooks and crannies. In and around this district, there are more historical sites. Visit Arènes de Lutece, a Gallo-Roman amphitheater built in the first century.

By the river, don’t forget to spend some time roaming around the spectacular Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden. In addition to colorful flora and fauna, there’s also the Jardin des Plantes Zoo , home to over 600 animals! Kids who want to experience one of the biggest natural history museums in the world will love all the cool specimens and fossils at Grande Galerie de l’Évolution .

Best Hotels in the 5th Arrondissement for Families

Once you’ve learned why this is one of the best Paris neighborhoods for families , it’s time to find a place to stay. Here are two great suggestions for the 5th Arrondissement of Paris! 

• Hotel Les Rives Notre Dame offers families traditional Parisian-style accommodations in the Latin Quarter overlooking the Seine River. Some rooms have pull-out sofas, separate living room areas, and panoramic views of the city and the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral. 
• Relais Christine , a boutique hotel located in a 16th-century townhouse, lets families stay on a quiet street. Standard rooms are spacious, and split-level suites with a private garden are also available. 

6th Arrondissement: Luxembourg and Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Famous for its old-world charm, literary history, and chic cafes, the 6th Arrondissement is a popular district located in the heart of the Left Bank. Many consider this to be one of the most quintessential Parisian neighborhoods, from interesting medieval museums to the lovely Luxembourg Gardens , one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. The gardens are perfect for a picnic or a stroll with kids!

Foodies will especially be in heaven here, as you wander the quaint streets to find bakeries, patisseries, and endless restaurants. The district is easily walkable, whether you’re strolling the different vendors along the Seine or the cobblestone streets of Saint-Germain des Prés. Famed for the historic Abbey of Saint-Germain des Prés , this must-see destination is an essential part of any family vacation to Paris! 

Once a small market village, Saint-Germain des Prés is now the hub of the 6th Arrondissement. Picturesque streets lined with charming boutiques lure families to Place Sevres Babylon, home to Le Bon Marche and other luxury department stores. You’ll also find some of the best local supermarkets and food halls in Saint-Germain, like La Grande Epicerie de Paris. Of course, if parents are a fan of Hemingway, don’t miss a chance to visit some of the most famous cafes in Paris: Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore, Le Precope, Brasserie Lipp, and Café Bonaparte. Once frequented by iconic authors, painters, and other respected intellectuals, they’re the perfect place to grab a coffee, croissant, and relax while people-watching. Who knows, you may even spot a celebrity! 

Research Getyourguide.com for popular Paris tours and things to do!

Best Hotels in the 6th Arrondissement for Families

The 6th Arrondissement is one of the best Paris neighborhoods for families who want a quintessential Parisian experience due to its abundance of family-friendly accommodations. Keep reading to find out the best places to stay in Paris with kids! 

• Crystal Hotel St Germain gives families a chance to stay in the heart of historical Saint-Germain, located just a few minutes away from the area’s most famous cafes and restaurants. Accommodations include rooms and suites with pull-out sofas. 
• Hotel Lutetia offers families a luxury experience in a grand hotel. Art deco-inspired rooms and suites have views of the Eiffel Tower , and some have separate living room areas too. 
• Le Relais St Germain offers a more eclectic stay near the Odeon metro station. This small boutique hotel gives families a luxury experience without the hefty price tag, featuring elegant rooms and suites. 
• Hotel d’ Aubusson , located in a 17th-century townhouse, lets families immerse themselves in the literary history of Saint Germain. Upgrade from a modern room to a suite to enjoy a split-level design with an extra living room space. 
• Duc de Saint Simon Hotel is a cozy boutique hotel near the metro and the shopping and dining along the Boulevard Saint-Germain. Families love the chic rooms and suites, some of which have terraces. 
• Résidence & Spa Le Prince Régent is just a few minutes from the Luxembourg Gardens and the Odéon Théâtre. Plus, it’s an easy walk to the nearest metro. Some rooms have kitchenettes, and larger suites come in one, two, or three-bedroom configurations. 
• Hotel Les Rives Notre Dame is a fantastic option for families who want to stay near Notre Dame. Rooms come with king beds or pull-out sofas, and larger suites have separate living room areas.

7th Arrondissement: Orsay, Eiffel Tower, and Invalides

Travelers looking to visit the most famous landmarks in Paris can’t get enough of the 7th Arrondissement. As one of the best Paris neighborhoods for families , it’s quaint yet chic, boasting several boutiques, museums, and fine dining restaurants. Families often flock to the hopping cafes or gourmet shops along Rue Cler or Rue St-Dominique, two of the best market streets in Paris. Of course, a visit to this famous neighborhood would be incomplete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower ! Whether families want to climb to the top or simply enjoy the view from the Champs de Mars , the park below the tower, it’s a wonderful place to spend the afternoon. Roam the beautifully manicured green patches to find four different playgrounds. Plus, a basketball court, an antique merry-go-round, and Les Guignols , a puppet theater! 

Families who want to see more historical landmarks can also visit Hôtel national des Invalides . It’s home to Napoleon’s tomb, plus the Musée de l’Armée , which has a selection of historical weapons. Save time to visit the nearby Ecole Militare, a royal military academy dating back to the 18th-century. Ask kids to look closely at the exterior and they may even be able to spot bullet holes!

Art lovers also adore the 7th Arrondissement for its marvelous art museums, including the Musée d’Orsay, one of the best museums in Paris. It has an excellent collection of colorful impressionist art, which kids will love. Families can also visit Musée Rodin , Musée du Quai Branly , and the Musée National Eugène Delacroix . For a more unique experience, explore the city’s underground sewers at Les Egouts de Paris!

Best Hotels in the 7th Arrondissement for Families

Visiting the 7th Arrondissement with your family? Stay tuned for our hotel suggestion! 

• Cler Hote l is just a short stroll from the Eiffel Tower , Les Invalides, and more attractions in the area. Rooms are comfortable and airy, and some have Eiffel Tower views. 

8th Arrondissement: Champs-Elysées and Madeleine

The 8th Arrondissement is the center of commerce in Paris, boasting world-class shopping, luxury hotels, and elegant architecture. Located on the right bank of the Seine River, the main attraction in this chic neighborhood is The Champs Elysées . This legendary shopping street runs east to west from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, where the 8th, 16th, and 17th Arrondissements meet. If you start east at Place de la Concorde , visit the gorgeous Jardin des Champs-Élysées before making your way west. Or, briefly stop at Grand Palais and Petit Palais to see some stately art in a breathtaking palace setting. Then, as you stroll along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées , keep an eye out for glitzy stores, including the Louis Vuitton flagship. Reach the Arc de Triomphe to enjoy panoramic city views! 

As one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for families, the 8th Arrondissement is also home to the upscale Madeleine district. Rich in embassies, palaces, and other official residences, it’s where you’ll find several luxury hotels and high-end boutiques. Families who want a true luxury experience can go shopping on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

Further north in the 8th Arrondissement, Parc Monceau is popular among locals and especially families with young kids. Surrounded by opulent mansions, verdant trees, and Renaissance statues, it’s considered one of the most elegant parks in Paris. There are plenty of meandering paths for kids to choose from and even a classic Parisian carousel they can ride. 

Best Hotels in the 8th Arrondissement for Families

Families visiting the 8th Arrondissement can choose from the best accommodations in Paris. After all, this is one of the best Paris neighborhoods for families to visit! Keep reading to learn more! 

• Le Bristol Paris is set on a shady, tree-lined street with high-end boutiques. It’s also only a few minutes from Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Posh rooms and suites have regal furniture, king-sized beds, and balconies with great views. 
• Hotel Le Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris is located on the legendary Avenue Hoche near the Champs-Elysees. Featuring views of the Arc de Triomphe, it has huge rooms and suites with separate living room areas, plus a cinema and art gallery on-site. 
• Four Seasons Hotel George V , a landmark hotel near the Champs-Elysees, offers families a true Parisian experience. Suites have private terraces, and there’s also an on-site pool and spa. 
• Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs-Elysées has apartment-style accommodations for larger families visiting Paris. One, two, and three-bedroom apartments feature balconies, private entrances, and fantastic views of the Champs-Elysées. 

12th Arrondissement: Bercy and Gare de Lyon

If you’re looking for a neighborhood that’s well-connected by public transport, stay in the 12th Arrondissement . Located in southeastern Paris, it’s filled primarily with quiet residential neighborhoods, sprawling green spaces, and the city’s artisan craft quarter. There are also some great shops or restaurants in the area, plus it’s close to other neighborhoods, like the 4th Arrondissement. This makes it a fantastic place to visit when you’re looking for a break from the typical Paris experience!

One of the most recognizable landmarks is Gare de Lyon . This train station features an iconic clock tower reminiscent of the Belle Époque. If you have time, definitely grab something to eat at Le Train Bleu . Once you’re done, don’t forget to take a priceless picture with the colorful houses on nearby Rue Crémieux! 

Families who love shopping can’t miss the historic Bercy Village , home to popular French brands and other craft artisans. Another popular spot for haggling deals on some of the best food in Paris is the Aligre Market , a huge space that’s three markets in one. Bercy is also home to the Parc de Bercy , a fantastic place to stop and take a break with kids.

The 12th Arrondissement has other fantastic green spaces as well, like the Promenade Plantée , a scenic tree-lined path with great views. Want to visit the biggest public park in Paris? Don’t miss the enormous Bois de Vincennes . Not only is there a ton of green space for kids to roam, but it also features a zoo! 

Where to Stay in the 12th Arrondissement with Kids

Families making the 12th Arrondissement tend to opt for a home rental. If you need a rental apartment in the 12 Arrondissement, check out Vrbo or Plum Guide .

Visiting Paris with young kids? Check out these Fantastic Things To Do In Paris With Young Kids ! 

14th Arrondissement: Montparnasse and Place Denfert-Rochereau

Located on the Left Bank of the Seine, south of the center of Paris, the 14th Arrondissement offers families an incredible array of attractions and activities. It’s well-connected to the rest of Paris too, with four Metro lines running through it. This makes it perfect for getting around, even with small children in tow.

The 14th Arrondissement includes the Montparnasse district, famous for its cafes and artists, as well as the Denfert-Rochereau district, home to the Museum of Natural History. Families will pass various creperies, historic bistros, and cozy eateries along Boulevard de Montparnasse, where many iconic cafes still remain. Visit The Market at Edgar-Quinet, located near the Montparnasse Cemetary . Haggle and get a local’s price on food, jewelry, crafts, etc. For an awesome view of Paris, The Montparnasse Tower is the tallest skyscraper in the city! 

The Paris Observatory is another popular destination in the 14th Arrondissement for great views over Paris. Inside, you’ll find a garden with statues, Jardin de l’Observatoire de Paris , fantastic for taking a break. Nearby, families can make their way to Place Denfert-Rochereau , which has a cute lion statue kids will love. Plus, it’s home to one of the most famous attractions in this neighborhood, the Paris Catacombs ! Though we don’t recommend this destination for young kids, it’s excellent for older kids, tweens, or teens who want a spooky excursion. Navigate the eerie labyrinthine tunnels to see passageways filled with skulls, bones, and other relics of Paris’s past! 

Where to Stay in the 14th Arrondissement with Kids

Find your next apartment rental in the 14th Arrondissement with kids by using Vrbo or Plum Guide ! Generally, families who want to make this area their home away from home choose a home rental.

16th Arrondissement: Passy and Trocadero

One of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Paris is the 16th Arrondissement. Located on the right bank of the Seine, it showcases a mixture of historic destinations, renowned art museums, and beautiful green spaces to relax. It’s a perfect place to unwind and explore at a leisurely pace with kids, especially when you visit the plaza at Trocadero . With its wide staircases, fountains, and lovely gardens, many say this is the best place to see the Eiffel Tower with kids in Paris! The 16th Arrondissement was once home to some of the most famous residents in Paris, including Honoré de Balzac. French history and literature buffs can’t miss the chance to see his house and adjoining museum for free. 

Passy , one of the richest shopping districts in Paris, is also located in the 16th Arrondissement. It has a ton of trendy restaurants for an adults-only date night too. Families who love art will appreciate the neighborhood’s convenience to Palais Tokyo , the Paris Museum of Modern Art , and the Musée Marmottan Monet . Another big draw for families visiting this neighborhood is Bois de Boulogne . This huge public park has a botanical garden, nature trails, and a lake. During warmer weather, families can explore the pathways, go boating, and visit the on-site theme park, Jardin d’Acclimatation ! It has an eye-popping architectural design that’ll impress kids, and there’s a nice grassy area outside. 

Best Hotels in the 16th Arrondissement for Families

If you need somewhere to stay in the 16th Arrondissement , look no further than these suggestions! 

• Saint James Paris is surrounded by its own private garden and is located in a lavish, 19th-century building. Choose between opulent rooms or suites with separate living rooms. Plus, enjoy the convenience of being near the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. 
• Shangri-La Hotel, Paris offers families a glamorous stay in a ritzy hotel. It’s not far from the nearest metro station, a quick walk to the Eiffel Tower, and also near the Seine River. Elegant rooms come with marble bathrooms, and suites have separate dining and living rooms. 

18th Arrondissement: Montmartre and Pigalle

There are so many reasons the 18th Arrondissement is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for families who love art and culture. Beloved by hipsters and tourists alike, the cobblestone, village-style streets of this bohemian area are drenched in so much history.

Visit the mythical Montmartre to see where Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali once walked. Creative kids will love taking a picture with the Wall of Love ! Then, ride the Carrousel de Saint-Pierre or visit Place du Tertre to see the street artists at work. This public square is located directly behind the Sacre-Coeur Basilica , located on a hilltop with sweeping views of the city. If you don’t have a stroller, it’s not too difficult to climb up the steep streets. There’s also a funicular. 

The 18th Arrondissement is also home to Pigalle . Known for its nightlife, this former red-light district has a happening restaurant scene, vintage shops, and endless neon signage. Though we don’t recommend staying here with kids, it’s a popular place for jazz lovers since there are lots of cozy cafes to catch a show. Pigalle is also home to the famous Moulin Rogue and its iconic glittering exterior! Families who want to see a different, less touristy side of Paris can also visit Chateau Rouge , a busy intersection located in what’s known as Little Africa. It’s a great place to get deals from various street vendors and try some authentic African food. 

Where to Stay in the 18th Arrondissement with Kids

If staying in the iconic Montmartre or Pigalle neighborhood is your style, then look for a home rental in the 18th Arrondissement using Vrbo or Plum Guide .

Interactive Map of Paris

Happy travels .

We hope you enjoy this guide on Where To Stay In Paris: 12 Best Arrondissements & Why Families Love Them! Whether you’re interested in museums, history, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of Paris, we’re sure you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Enjoy Paris with your kids! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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A Paris vacation and children go together like cheese and wine. It’s simply one of the best cities in Europe for families to explore, and there are a great deal of kid-friendly activities to choose from. Consider mixing a half-day private tour of the Louvre with playtime in the neighboring Tuileries Garden, and match bucket-list activities like the Eiffel Tower with a leisurely dinner cruise on the Seine. Combinations like this ensure you see the major sites while also enjoying the joie de vivre that makes a Paris family vacation so desirable. A kid-friendly place to stay is important, and larger families almost universally seek out well-located apartment rentals both for the extra space and the budget. Luxury family hotels in Paris include options in the center of the city that are amazing for those who wish to splurge when visiting this magical destination. Let us take the guess work out of choosing among the P aris hotels for families. 

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10 Tips for a Perfect Family Vacation in Paris

Every summer we take advantage of school holidays and head to new places with our three young kids—26 countries in the past eight years. But we also find ourselves returning again and again to favorite destinations. Paris is one of them. Since November is a perfect time to start planning travel for next summer , it’s also the perfect time to share a few valuable lessons we’ve learned over the course of several trips to the City of Light. These ten tips make our vacations fun for the kids (and adults) and largely stress-free.

In an apartment we feel like locals. Photo by Eric Stoen.

1. Try a rental instead of a hotel. We love renting apartments instead of staying in hotels. In an apartment we feel like locals: We have a kitchen—with all the dining flexibility that it brings—and we have far more space than we would in a hotel. Plus, since there are five of us, we would require two hotel rooms, and that becomes expensive. When we spent time in Paris this summer (as part of our six-week trip through Europe ), we rented a house through Airbnb, complete with a courtyard, and it was the perfect place to return to after a day of exploring.

Additional tip: We always stay in the 7th arrondissement. It has the markets of Rue Cler as well as the Eiffel Tower, both of which are landmarks that make it really easy to find our way back home from anywhere in the city.

The Musée de la Chasse is fun and quirky for kids. Photo by Eric Stoen.

2. Search out smaller museums. The major museums like the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre are absolutely worth visiting (see my next tip), but there’s much more to explore in Paris than just the big-ticket attractions, and you’re missing out if you don’t take the time to suss out the unusual and unique small spots in any city. They are often less crowded, just as interesting (if not more so), and easier to see with kids with naturally shorter attention spans. Two of our favorite small museums are the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature and the Musée Marmottan Monet . The Musée de la Chasse is fun and quirky for kids: There are a lot of interactive animal-related displays in a setting that reminds me of a Wes Anderson film. The Monet Museum lets kids get up close to amazing Impressionist art (without the crowds) and to see Monet’s progression as an artist—something you don’t necessarily see at large museums that focus on major works.

Additional tip: Save the museums for a rainy day. Even when the weather is bad, the smaller museums are rarely crowded.

One of the highlights of our summer trip was a private tour of the Louvre with Paris Muse. Photo by Eric Stoen.

3. If you’re going to a major museum, book a kid-friendly private tour. One of the highlights of our summer trip was a private tour of the Louvre with Paris Muse . Not only did we avoid most of the lines and crowds, but the kids had a great time completing word puzzles and being led on a treasure hunt that included a wide spectrum of Babylonian, Greek, French Medieval, and Italian Renaissance art and antiquities.

Additional tip: There are numerous groups that lead kid-centric private tours, including Paris Muse and Context Travel. Search on TripAdvisor for “Paris Activities” to see tour reviews, or check Wendy’s WOW List of Trusted Travel Experts to find someone who can arrange special activities wherever you’re traveling.

4. Think picnics. Every summer that we return to Paris, we find ourselves having more and more picnics, both for lunch and dinner. We’re able to sit and enjoy wine while the kids run around and play—and the breads, meats, cheeses and tarts bought from local markets can’t be beat.

Additional tip: Bring a thin linen blanket from home (which, in addition to being perfect for picnics, can be used as a towel or a sarong) and buy disposable plates, cups and utensils at the local supermarché.

5. Walk. A lot. The Métro is great for reaching farther-afield areas of the city and for giving legs a rest, but the biggest mistake that first-time visitors to Paris make is that they take the Métro from major site to major site and miss out on the neighborhoods and the transitions between arrondissements. There are great parks, churches, cafés, and shops outside of the major tourist areas, and some of our best days have been the ones when we did the most walking.

Additional tip: We like picking a destination in the morning or the night before, taking the Métro there, exploring that area, and then slowly walking back to our apartment in the afternoon, buying things for dinner along the way.

Whether you’re into pizza, baguettes or pastries, you can find a cooking class for it in Paris. Photo by Eric Stoen.

6. Learn to cook. We’ve always loved macarons. So this summer we learned how to make them with Cook’n With Class in Montmartre. Our kids were involved in every step, from preparing the dough and fillings to final assembly—and, best of all, they got to take home everything that they made. Whether you’re into pizza, baguettes or pastries, you can find a cooking class for it in Paris. And it doesn’t even take up a whole day—a short course is a perfect morning or afternoon activity.

Additional tip: If you find a class that looks great for your family but is geared to adults, ask the school if they can offer you a kid-friendly version.

7. Become regulars. On Rue de Grenelle near Champs de Mars there is a little Italian restaurant. We’ve eaten there six times over the past two summers, and every time is better. When they see us they seat us right away. They anticipate the kids’ drinks. They give us extra appetizers, sweets, and after-dinner liquors at no cost. We always get the same waiter and expand on our conversations each time, as much as possible in French. It makes for a much better experience than simply being one-time visitors. The same holds at boulangeries, where the lovely lady behind the counter would anticipate our pain au chocolat order every morning, or at the local fresh fruit market, where they gave us frequent discounts for not-really-noticeable produce blemishes—but only after we had gone there several times.

Additional tip: Always try to speak French. Even if it’s just one or two sentences that you quickly looked up on Google Translate, it gets you a better level of service than walking in and assuming that the staff speaks English.

One of the best carousels for spearing brass rings is at Luxembourg Gardens. Photo by Eric Stoen.

8. Stop at every carousel. There are a lot of carousels in Paris. Every one is different, and our kids love all of them, so we never say no when we’re passing one. The brass rings are always a highlight because you don’t see them in the U.S. very often anymore. There’s rarely a wait, and it’s a nice chance to relax after a lot of walking.

Additional tip: The best carousels for spearing brass rings are at Luxembourg Gardens (by the playground) and at Champs de Mars park, near the Eiffel Tower.

My kids love the Jardin d’Acclimatation. Photo by Eric Stoen.

9. Skip the big amusement parks. Forget Disneyland Paris. Head to the Jardin d’Acclimatation instead. It’s a much more authentically Parisian experience, easier to get to, and a lot less expensive, with a small entry fee and then pay-per-ride attractions. Go early, before the park gets crowded.

Additional tip: Bring swimsuits and towels. Our kids love the water area.

My daughter and I have a tradition of walking around the Eiffel Tower area at least one night during our trip. Photo by Eric Stoen.

10. Stay up late. A few years ago when we landed in Paris, my wife and two of the kids were jet-lagged and went to sleep early, but my oldest daughter and I felt wide awake. So we quietly left the apartment and walked all around the Eiffel Tower, the Champs du Mars, and the Trocadero area for two hours, including several trips around the Trocadero carousel. It was great one-on-one bonding, and we got to see more Parisian nightlife than we usually do. Since then, it’s become a tradition for the two of us: We always head over on our first night, and then once or twice a week after that.

Additional tip: I especially enjoy walking at night after it’s rained. The reflections are magical.

Meet our writer

Eric Stoen, the founder of Travel Babbo , travels around the world constantly with his three kids. Wendy met him when he won Condé Nast Traveler’s Dream Trip Contest a few years ago and was so impressed with his travel savvy that she invited him to contribute to WendyPerrin.com.

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I’m intrigued by the “spearing the brass rings” at the carousel. Is this something that can be taken as a souvenir or must you return all the rings?

would love the name of the italian restaurant on rue de grenelle!

Hi there, I checked with Eric and it was Gusto Italia.

Wow I love the tips! Especially, about stopping at every carousel! I can’t wait to take my siblings here!!

Great list of tips! I share the same approach when it comes to visiting Paris. Looks like you have had a truly authentic experince this time in the city. Thanks for sharing!

Wonderful listing–to celebrate our 50th anniversary, thinking of taking the family–our 40-ish kids and grandkids to Paris and London. This is just what we need to get started planning! Thanks so much–makes it sound do-able!

Excellent tips ! Exactly those kind of tips I’m sharing with my customers (even if they travel with younger children).

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This Charming French-Style Bakery In Michigan Will Take Your Taste Buds On A Trip To Paris

By: Author Ava Thompson

Posted on August 13, 2024

Ever find yourself yearning for the charm and flavors of Paris without the hassle of international travel?

The allure of French pastries, the aroma of freshly baked bread, and the quaint atmosphere of a Parisian café can be experienced right here in Michigan .

Tucked away in the delightful town of Charlevoix is a gem that goes by the name That French Place.

This charming bakery will whisk your taste buds across the Atlantic and make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a cozy boulangerie in the heart of Paris.

Ready to discover how this little bakery can transport you to France?

Embarking on a culinary journey at That French Place begins the moment you step through the door.

An array of freshly baked goods greets you, each one more tempting than the last.

From buttery croissants to delicate macarons, the selection feels authentically French.

Each pastry seems to whisper a promise of flaky, buttery goodness that will melt in your mouth.

The delightful ambiance, complete with rustic décor and friendly faces, invites you to linger and savor every moment.

Your senses will be delighted by the myriad of sights, smells, and sounds that define this little slice of Paris in Charlevoix.

Croissants, the hallmark of any French bakery, are an absolute must-try here.

Baked to golden perfection, their crisp exterior gives way to a soft, airy interior that practically begs to be paired with a steaming cup of coffee.

One bite and you’ll understand why the French take their croissants so seriously.

The pain au chocolat, with its rich, chocolate-filled center, offers a decadent twist on this classic treat.

If your sweet tooth craves something more, the bakery’s selection of tarts and éclairs will not disappoint.

Each one is crafted with precision and care, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite.

Macarons, another quintessential French delicacy, are available in a rainbow of flavors and colors.

These delicate meringue-based confections are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

The bakery’s chefs have perfected the art of creating macarons with the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Besides the classics, seasonal flavors make an appearance, adding an element of surprise and delight to each visit.

Entering That French Place is like stepping into a delightful culinary haven where every bite feels like a warm hug from a French grandmother.

While their sweets are the stuff of dreams, let’s not overlook the savory side of things.

Those quiches, my friends, are little round masterpieces.

We’re talking about flaky, buttery crusts that could make even the most hardened pastry critic weep with joy.

And the fillings are rich, custardy, and oh-so-satisfying, they practically sing with flavor.

The atmosphere at That French Place is as inviting as the food.

Rustic tables, decorative accents, and the warm glow of sunlight filtering through the windows create a cozy, welcoming environment.

Friendly staff members greet you with a smile and are always ready to recommend their favorite treats or help you navigate the menu.

Related : Locals Can’t Get Enough of Custard-Filled Long Johns at this Donut Shop in Michigan

Related : This Unassuming Bakery in Michigan has Homemade Cheesecakes Famous throughout the Midwest

Related : Savor Scrumptious Log Cabin Cafe and Bakery Eats at Michigan’s Bojack’s

You’ll often find locals and visitors alike enjoying a leisurely meal, sipping on coffee, and engaging in lively conversation.

This sense of community and camaraderie is part of what makes the bakery so special.

Artisanal craftsmanship is at the heart of everything That French Place does.

The dedication to quality is evident in every bite, from the carefully sourced ingredients to the meticulous preparation.

This commitment to excellence sets the bakery apart and ensures that each visit is a memorable one.

Whether you’re a seasoned Francophile or simply someone who appreciates good food, That French Place offers a taste of France that’s hard to resist.

The bakery’s commitment to quality extends beyond its food and drink offerings.

The service is consistently praised for being friendly and attentive, with staff members who are passionate about sharing their love for French cuisine.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular patron, you’re treated like family, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The bakery’s charm extends beyond its walls.

Located in the picturesque town of Charlevoix, it’s surrounded by natural beauty and has a rich sense of history.

Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, explore the local shops, or simply take in the serene views of Lake Michigan.

The combination of culinary delights and scenic surroundings makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

And if you’re planning a special event, the bakery offers catering services that bring a touch of French elegance to any occasion.

As you savor a croissant or sip on a café au lait, you might find yourself momentarily transported to a sidewalk café in Paris.

The sounds of laughter and conversation, the aroma of freshly baked bread, and the warmth of the bakery’s ambiance create an experience that’s both comforting and exhilarating.

It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most delightful journeys don’t require a passport.

For those looking to bring a taste of That French Place home, the bakery offers a selection of goods perfect for gifting or enjoying later.

Beautifully packaged pastries make thoughtful presents for friends and family.

These items allow you to share the magic of this charming bakery with loved ones, spreading joy and deliciousness far and wide.

A visit to That French Place is more than just a trip to a bakery—it’s an experience that engages all your senses and leaves a lasting impression.

The delightful combination of authentic French flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and the charm of Charlevoix make it a destination worth exploring.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this little bakery offers a taste of Paris that’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

To discover more about this enchanting bakery, visit their website or Facebook page .

Use this map to plan your visit and ensure you don’t miss out on any of the delicious offerings.

Where : 212 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI 49720

Ready to embark on a culinary journey to France without leaving Michigan?

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Ayesha Curry and Her Two Sons Arrive in Paris to Cheer on Steph Curry at 2024 Olympics: 'First Boys Trip'

Ayesha and Steph are parents to four kids — Riley, 12, Ryan, 9, Canon, 6, and Caius, whom they welcomed in May

Ayesha Curry/Instagram; Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty

Ayesha Curry and her sons are getting ready to cheer on Steph Curry at the 2024 Summer Olympics!

On Sunday, Aug. 4, the mom of four shared a few photos on her Instagram Stories as she arrived in Paris, France to cheer on her basketball player husband at the Olympics.

Ayesha posted one photo of herself and her two sons — Canon, 6, and Caius, whom she welcomed in May — as they landed in France.

"We made it!!!!! Ready to cheer on @stephencurry30 and #teamusa," Ayesha wrote across the photo. "First 'boys' trip!"

Another photo posted to her Stories showed one of her sons pointing out the window as they flew to France. "Are we there yet?!" Ayesha cheekily wrote across the picture.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

Ayesha Curry/Instagram

Ayesha and Steph are parents to four kids — daughters Riley, 12, Ryan, 9, and sons Canon and Caius.

Steph is currently competing for Team USA's basketball team, which is set to play against Brazil on Tuesday, Aug. 6 during the quarterfinals.

At the end of May, the famous couple announced the birth of their fourth baby , son Caius Chai, in a joint post on  Instagram . They shared that their son was born early on May 11.

"Our sweet baby boy decided to make an early arrival!! He’s doing great and we are finally settling in at home as a family of 6! So grateful!" Steph captioned a black-and-white photo of someone holding the newborn's tiny hand.

"Caius Chai 5/11/24" the NBA star wrote at the end of the caption.

The  Sweet July   founder announced that she was pregnant on the cover of her magazine in March. In the announcement essay, the chef wrote that she and her athlete husband thought that their family was complete until one day they both agreed that they felt "somebody was missing" from the Curry crew.

She also noted that it was nice to see her older kids react to her fourth pregnancy.

"Getting to experience this through [Canon's] eyes and through Ryan and Riley’s eyes has been so cool," she shared at the time. "Their perspectives are so different, and it’s been the most exciting thing."

Related Articles

For Juliette and Bella Whittaker, the Paris Olympics are a family trip

Sisters from Maryland have familiar roommates in the Olympic Village: each other.

Years before Bella and Juliette Whittaker participated in the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremonies , they celebrated their own.

Rather than standing on a boat gliding down the Seine with the rest of the American team, the sisters stood on the sandy shores of the Outer Banks. Their grandfather led the way as the nominal torch bearer — holding a baseball bat overhead. Then came the contestants. The Whittakers and family members divided themselves into teams of two and were each assigned countries.

They’d compete over the next few days in a variety of competitions: sprints on the beach, swimming races in the ocean, gymnastics routines and even nonathletic events — Juliette vaguely recalled an eating contest. They tracked scores on a poster board in the kitchen.

It was a contest worthy of a family that Bella described as “hardcore Olympic lovers.”

“In my household, when it’s Olympic time,” she said, “we don’t turn the TV off.”

It’ll be on this year — especially because the sisters are competing. Bella, a 22-year-old who transferred Penn to Arkansas, is on the American 4x400 mixed relay team and Juliette, a 20-year-old at Stanford, advanced to Sunday’s 800-meter semifinals.

The Laurel, Md., natives overcame individual challenges to make it to what Juliette called “the pinnacle.” Their friendship helped in that perseverance and will continue doing so in Paris.

“It gives me so much comfort knowing that [Bella is] going to be there,” Juliette said. “If she wasn’t coming I’d just be so much more nervous … it’s nice to have this one thing that’s just been a constant in my life.”

Falling and flying

Long plane rides make Juliette contemplative. During her trip back home from the 2023 USATF outdoor championships, she didn’t have pleasant memories to work with.

She’d been mere steps from the finish line in the 800 meter semifinals as she felt two runners creep to her side. Threatened, she tried to power through but had no energy left to expend.

Her legs gave out.

She flew forward.

Runners passed her prone body as they crossed the finish line.

Paris Olympics 2024

Juliette’s heartbreak evolved into excitement for the next competition as the plane crossed the country. She opened a new note and titled it with the date: 7/10/2023.

“this year i fell steps from the finish of the semis. next year i am making the team,” she wrote, a declaration of intent she got to validate back in Eugene at the U.S. Olympic trials.

Juliette, competing again in the 800-meter race, needed to finish in the top three. Chaos overtook the final when Athing Mu , who won the gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics , fell early.

Whittaker pushed forward and past the finish line. Unable to think straight, she looked up at the board. There, a moment she’d envisioned and replayed in her mind crystallized into reality.

She finished third with a new personal best, 1:58.45, and earned a trip to Paris. Bella, overwhelmed by her sister’s success, sank to her knees before sprinting to meet Juliette at the finish line, enveloping her in a hug.

“I don’t know if there was anything other than just pure shock and joy and relief,” Juliette said.

‘A new person’

Bella’s selection took longer. She was on the bus ride to the Portland airport, watching the remainder of the trials.

Any second, her Olympic fate would be decided. She’d already competed, finishing sixth in the 400 meters. The result would likely be enough to get her into the relay pool, but it wasn’t a guarantee. Bella went through the American team processing despite that, trying on gear and uniforms and all the while trying to manage her excitement.

She was checking her bag when one of her coaches at Penn, Chené Townsend, called. Bella declined the FaceTime. Townsend rang again. This time, Bella picked up — and learned she would be going to Paris.

“I was grinning from ear to ear and I felt very relieved,” Bella said.

The full weight of realization only came when she got on the flight. The passenger next to her was on his way back from Paris. They started talking about the Olympics and Bella told him she’d be competing.

“I’m gonna look out for you,” she recalled him telling her, words that made the achievement sink in.

The moment was that much sweeter because of where Bella was two years prior.

She soared in her freshman season with the Quakers, qualifying for the NCAA championships in the 400 meters as 22nd seed in nation. But a stress fracture in her back derailed her sophomore year, forcing her into a back brace and leaving her unable to run for months.

Back spasms debilitated her. Once, as she studied during finals week in the library, she was unable to move, lying on the ground.

“It was a pretty traumatic time,” she said.

The worst moments came as she tried to return and realized she was nowhere near her peers or prior form.

“It was mentally and emotionally draining,” she said.

She and Townsend worked together to try to recapture her abilities. They had to overhaul the way she trained, her nutrition, how she managed her mental health and more. Bella worked with a sports psychologist to buoy her confidence.

Podcast episode

Townsend recalled Bella’s dedication, saying she never missed a workout and was always trying to do more.

“When she came back from her injury, it was almost like a new person,” the coach said.

Bella’s abilities grew steadily. She closed her junior year strong and exploded in 2024, finishing with a host of program and Ivy League records. Her ability to stay focused on her goals despite those injury difficulties impressed and inspired Juliette.

Many mistakenly think the sisters are twins. But Juliette said there is a clear older-younger sister delineation between the two. Bella’s emotional maturity makes her a source of reassurance and advice.

“The first person that I always call or text when things just are feeling scary or just not going my way is always Bella,” Juliette said.

And of course, the two are best friends, their mother, Jill Pellicoro said. When they went to the grocery store, the sisters would beg their mom to let them out of the car so they could run the last bit of the trip back home. They shared a room until Bella went to college but their bond continued even on opposite coasts.

Their qualification to the great games brought one additional benefit: The Whittaker sisters once again get to room together. This time, it’s in the Olympic Village.

The Paris Olympics are officially over after the Closing Ceremonies ended on an American note with Tom Cruise and Billie Eilish. The next Summer Games will take place in Los Angeles in 2028, returning after a successful 1984 Olympic Games .

Medals: See the final Olympic medal count, country by country , including firsts and comparisons to the 2020 Olympics. See the U.S. medals broken down by athletes , too.

U.S. athletes: The Americans won 126 medals , and because of team sports and relays, more than 40 percent of the team’s delegation of nearly 600 athletes received at least one. Simone Biles , Noah Lyles , U.S. Women’s soccer , basketball and men’s basketball all claimed gold among other Team USA athletes.

Stephen Curry's Wife, Ayesha, Teary After Encounter With Paris Police

NBA star Steph Curry secured a gold medal at the Olympics on Saturday, but his wife, Ayesha Curry, also made headlines over a tense encounter with Parisian authorities that same day.

Footage emerged on Sunday of Ayesha Curry's emotional confrontation with Paris police. The authorities blocked access to the family's vehicle after French President Emmanuel Macron appeared and closed off sections of the street. Macron had been in attendance for Team USA's golden performance against France on Saturday.

PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 10: Stephen Curry (4) of Team USA reacts during Men's Gold Medal game between Team France and Team United States on day fifteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Mustafa Ciftci/Anadolu via Getty Images)

PARK CITY, UTAH - JANUARY 23: Stephen Curry and Ayesha Curry attend the 2023 Sundance Film Festival "Stephen Curry: Underrated" Premiere at Eccles Center Theatre on January 23, 2023 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

According to TMZ, Curry was emotional after an officer physically bumped into her infant son as she navigated around the police. 

Stephen Curry's Warriors teammate, Draymond Green, appeared at the scene with Ayesha and had an aggressive moment. 

Stephen CURRY of United States and his wife Ayesha CURRY after the Olympic Games Paris 2024 semi-final match between France and United States at Bercy Arena on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Johnny Fidelin/Icon Sport via Getty Images)

"So even after you hit the baby in the head, there’s still nothing y’all can do to get them out of here?" Draymond Green told the authorities.

Sonya Curry, mother to Steph, was also in the video, claiming harassment by the police who prohibited Ayesha from reaching their vehicle. More video from the aftermath of the gold medal win in Paris showed Curry leaving an establishment and barking at media members for getting ‘too close’ to his mother. 

The trip to Paris will be one to remember for the Curry family. Steph's heroic performance late in Saturday's game helped USA secure gold. He finished with 24 points, shooting 8-of-10 from downtown.

Stephen Curry of USA wins gold after Men's basketball Final between France and United States on Day 15 of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

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Here’s how to purchase tickets for 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games

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The 2024 Summer Olympics are about to end but Southern Californians might already be wondering how to buy tickets or work as volunteers when the Games come to their part of the world.

The short answer is to go to the LA28 organizing committee ’s website: la28.org .

Though it’s still early in the process, fans can sign up for updates on tickets, hospitality and volunteer opportunities. The site also includes a careers page , though there did not seem to be many job openings as of this week.

Paris held its first round of ticket sales about 18 months in advance. That could put L.A.’s initial offering sometime around February 2027.

As for volunteers, the 2024 Summer Games reportedly fielded more than 300,000 applications for 45,000 spots. People were selected from 155 countries.

More to Read

‘The clock is ticking.’ Olympic flag arrives in L.A. and LA28 gets to work

Aug. 12, 2024

Photos: Closing ceremony at Paris opens up 2028 Summer Olympics for L.A.

Plaschke: Bring it on! Los Angeles begins countdown to 2028 Olympics

Aug. 11, 2024

Go beyond the scoreboard

Get the latest on L.A.'s teams in the daily Sports Report newsletter.

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David Wharton has filled an array of roles – covering the courts, entertainment, sports and the second Persian Gulf War – since starting as a Los Angeles Times intern in 1982. His work has been honored by organizations such as the Society for Features Journalism and Associated Press Sports Editors and has been anthologized in “Best American Sports Writing.” He has also been nominated for an Emmy and has written two books, including “Conquest,” an inside look at USC football during the Pete Carroll era.

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Martha and Snoop Dogg Reunited at the Paris Olympics This Weekend—See What the Best Friends Have Been Up To

The longtime friends attended the equestrian team dressage event together.

Madeline Buiano is an editor at MarthaStewart.com, sharing her knowledge on a range of topics—from gardening and cleaning to home.

Mike Egerton - PA Images / Getty Images

Best friends Martha and Snoop Dogg reunited this weekend at the Paris Olympics, where they attended the equestrian team dressage event at the Château de Versailles. The iconic duo sat front row in full equestrian attire, donning matching riding helmets, show coats, white pants, and boots.

Snoop, who is serving as a commentator for NBC during the Olympics, asked Martha to attend the dressage competition with him. "Snoop called me, and he knows I love horses," Martha told Today . "He's a little fearful of horses." To which Snoop said: "I'm still scared of horses."

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At the dressage event, Martha helped Snoop face his equine fears. During a segment for NBC , the longtime friends fed carrots to two of the horses and learned more about horse dancing. "This is the first time I've ever been this close to a horse," the rapper said.

Following their meet-and-greet, Martha and Snoop sat front row during the dressage event as spectators. Watching the horses may have even given Snoop a newfound appreciation for the animals. "I gave him a stall in my stable—he's going to put a horse in there, aren't you, Snoop?" Martha said after the event. "Yes, I am. I'm gonna buy me a horse and put it in there," he replied.

The best friends teamed up again after the dressage event for dinner at Le Cinq, a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Paris. "Ladies and gentlemen, my special guest, the lovely, the gracious, Martha Stewart," Snoop said. "Put your napkin on your lap—you have that beautiful white suit and you don't want to drop anything on it," Martha told him.

During their meal, the two dined on French cuisine, including escargot, canapés, and tartare. Snoop gave the experience a five out of five stars. "The three-star rating this restaurant got doesn't sit well with me," he said. "Since I have two stars—me and Martha—I'm gonna move you guys up to five stars."

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