15 Best Things To Do In Paris With Kids (Fun Guaranteed)
Planning a family trip to Paris and wonder what are the must-dos that you should add to your itinerary? I’ve got you (and I’m a bit jealous if I’m being 100% honest… I’d rather be leaving for Paris too!). Keep reading and you’ll discover my favorite family-friendly activities in Paris!
Paris with kids? Absolutely doable — and honestly, totally worth it.
I’ve been to Paris three times with my little ones (from a baby to a 6-year-old), and each trip taught me something new about what really works for families. Some activities are amazing with kids… others just aren’t worth the time, the money, or the meltdown risk.
So if you’re planning a trip and wondering what’s actually worth adding to your itinerary, I’ve got you covered. I’m sharing 15 of the best things to do in Paris with kids — fun, memorable activities that the whole family will enjoy. This list includes a mix of must-see sights, hands-on experiences, and low-key gems perfect for when everyone needs a break.
Let’s get into it!
Is Paris a good destination for families?
Yes—100%! Paris is a fantastic city to explore with kids.
Beyond the iconic landmarks and museums, Paris actually makes traveling with children surprisingly easy. You’ll find cool playgrounds in almost every arrondissement (super handy for burning off energy between stops), and there are tons of open spaces where kids can run around and play.
Most of the big tourist spots—like museums and castles—offer family-friendly activities or kids’ programs. And here’s a bonus: in a lot of cases, families get priority access to attractions. Yep, skipping the line is often a perk when you’re traveling with little ones. Places like the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe are great examples—you don’t have to wait forever just to get in.
So yes, Paris with kids? Totally doable. And honestly, it might surprise you how family-friendly it really is.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
This is one of the questions I get asked all the time — and I totally get why! Timing can really make or break a trip, especially with kids in tow.
My personal favorite seasons for visiting Paris with kids are spring and fall. Think April, May, September, and October. The weather is usually just right—not too hot, not too chilly—and you won’t have to battle the massive tourist crowds that summer brings. That means shorter lines at big attractions (always a win when you’ve got little ones), and way more room to breathe.
Summer? Honestly, it’s not my top pick. July and August can get really hot and humid, which makes walking around the city— and waiting in lines — pretty uncomfortable for everyone. Plus, a lot of Parisians leave the city in August, so you might find some local shops or restaurants closed or running on reduced hours. Add in peak tourist season crowds, and it’s just not the most relaxing time to visit with kids.
So if you can swing it, aim for spring or fall. You’ll have a much smoother experience—and Paris will feel a little more like the charming city you came to see.
🌸✈️
April is my favorite month to travel to Paris. Cherry blossoms, spring flowers, and better deals on hotels (compared to summer rush).
Where to stay with kids in Paris?
Paris is super walkable and easy to navigate by metro — but if you’re traveling with kids, staying central can make a huge difference. Less time underground = more time exploring (and fewer tired little legs at the end of the day). So choosing the right arrondissement for your accommodation is SUPER important!
We personally loved staying in the 2nd arrondissement (Montorgueil area) on our last trip. It was such a fun, lively spot — close to the Louvre, tons of restaurants, cute cafés, and local shops. Everything felt walkable, and the vibe was just right for families.
Another great option? The 5th arrondissement (Latin Quarter). It’s got a classic Parisian charm, lots of bakeries and restaurants, and it’s just a short stroll to the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens — one of the best kid-friendly spots in the city.
And if you plan your trip far in advance, you’ll be able to find affordable family hotels even in the heart of Paris! That’s what we like!
15 best things to do in Paris with kids
Paris is packed with things to do — museums, gardens, boat rides, sweet treats… the list goes on. But let’s be real: when you’re planning a family trip, you want activities that actually work with kids of different ages (and energy levels).
Here are my top 15 picks for fun, kid-approved things to do in Paris. These are the spots we loved most — and the ones I’d recommend to any family visiting for the first (or third!) time.
1. Luxembourg Gardens
If there’s one place I always recommend to families in Paris, it’s Luxembourg Gardens. We’ve visited on every trip, and honestly? It never gets old.
Right in the heart of the city, this massive park is not only beautiful (hello, dreamy Parisian architecture!), but it’s also one of the most kid-friendly spots in town. You’ll find:
- Toy sailboats to rent and sail on the pond (my kids were obsessed)
- Puppet shows at the Théâtre du Luxembourg
- A charming old-school carousel
- And the famous Jardin de Ludo playground, which is seriously one of the best we’ve found in Europe
The playground is huge, gated, and has everything from a climbing fort and giant slide to a massive sandpit. Perfect for burning off energy between sightseeing stops.
And while the kids play? You get to soak in the view of the Palais du Luxembourg, now owned by the French Senate. Not a bad way to spend an afternoon!
You’ll find the Luxembourg Gardens in the Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement), not far from the Panthéon.
2. The Eiffel Tower
You can’t go to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower — your kids would never let you live it down! It’s the ultimate icon, and yep, it’s just as impressive in person as you’d imagine.
If you’re visiting Paris with kids, here’s what you need to know:
You’ve got two main ways to experience it: climbing to the top or admiring it from the ground.
Climb it (or ride the elevator!)
Going up the Eiffel Tower is a total bucket list moment. You can either stop at the 2nd floor or go all the way to the top for those sweeping views of the Paris rooftops. Kids usually love the glass elevator ride—and honestly, so do I.
There’s no time limit once you’re inside, so you can take your time and soak it all in.
🎟️ Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance to avoid the very long lines. And bring a few snacks, sticker books, or something fun to pass the time while waiting for security and for the elevator on your way back. (Been there. Learned the hard way.)
Bonus: Kids under 4 are free!
Admire from the ground
Want to admire it from below instead? That works too. There are many spots from where you can get beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower. It’s a fun and free family-friendly activity that’ll let you tick a box on your Paris itnerary.
Here are a few of my favorite spots:
Champ-de-Mars
Admire the Eiffel Tower from the Champ-de-Mars park. This large green space stretches from the Ecole Militaire to the foot of the Eiffel Tower. It’s the ideal place for children to stretch their legs and have fun, while enjoying a magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower. When the weather’s fine, it’s also the perfect place to settle down for a family picnic or snack break.
Trocadéro Gardens
Just across the Seine, the Trocadéro Gardens give you that postcard-perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. It’s also one of the best photo ops for families—you’ll have the tower perfectly framed behind you. Don’t miss the carousel nearby, located right between the Eiffel Tower and the gardens. It’s a sweet little break the kids will love (and the photos are adorable).
See it sparkle at night
From dusk until 1 a.m., the Eiffel Tower sparkles for five magical minutes at the start of every hour. It’s absolutely worth staying up for, especially if your kids can handle a later bedtime one evening. The first sparkle at sunset is our personal favorite!
If you’re looking for a fun family-friendly activity to explore Paris in the evening, it should definitely be at the top of your list!
Some of our favorite places to watch the light show:
- Trocadéro Gardens
- Champ-de-Mars
- Pont Alexandre III
- Pont des Arts
- Place de la Concorde
Pro tip: You can easily mix and match these options. We usually skip going up the tower with our kids (we did it once, but don’t feel the need to go back) and instead build in a few stops around the base. The Champ-de- Mars, Trocadéro Gardens, and the carousel are part of our usual loop — it’s a relaxed, fun way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower without the stress.
3. Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris—and absolutely worth adding to your family itinerary.
In our opinion, the view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe is the best panoramic view in Paris. Yes, even better than the one from the Eiffel Tower! From up there, you’ll get an incredible 360° view of the city, including the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Coeur, and even the sleek skyline of La Défense.
But fair warning: this stunning view comes with a climb! There are 284 steps leading up to the top. While it might sound like a workout, older kids will love the adventure—and there are small landings along the way to catch your breath.
Visiting with younger kids?
No worries — a lift is available for families with little ones or strollers. After the elevator ride, there are just a few final steps to reach the top. Note that strollers aren’t allowed on the observation deck, but you can leave them safely in a secured area near the reception (just don’t leave anything valuable inside).
🎟️ Skip the lines:
We highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance. It’ll save you time and make the whole visit a lot smoother—especially with kids in tow.
4. Tour of Paris on a double-decker bus (hop on hop off bus)
Paris is a big, beautiful city — but it’s also very spread out. And if you’re visiting Paris with toddlers (especially with a stroller!), getting around can be a real challenge. The metro may be efficient, but it’s not exactly stroller-friendly — we found ourselves hauling a stroller up and down endless stairs on our first trip with our daughter. Lesson learned!
That’s why a hop-on hop-off bus tour is one of our favorite ways to explore Paris with kids. These double-decker buses take you past the city’s most iconic landmarks without the stress of navigating public transport. You can simply sit back, relax, and soak up the sights. Plus, kids love riding on the open top deck!
Why we love it for families:
- You can get on and off as often as you like at the main stops, making it super easy to explore at your own pace.
- The buses follow popular tourist routes, so you’ll stop near many of the top attractions on this list.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English — great for learning a bit of history along the way.
- It’s a fun and comfortable way to rest little legs while still sightseeing.
🎟️ Tickets are available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, so you can choose what works best for your family itinerary. Whether you use it to get around or simply enjoy a full loop of the city, it’s a fantastic, low-stress way to take in the magic of Paris.
🎟️ Tickets are available for 24, 48, or 72 hours
so you can choose what works best for your family itinerary. Whether you use it to get around or simply enjoy a full loop of the city, it’s a fantastic, low-stress way to take in the magic of Paris.
5. Château de Versailles
While it’s not located right in the center of Paris, a visit to the Château de Versailles is one of the top family-friendly day trips from the city — and totally worth the train ride.
The Château itself is absolutely breathtaking. Even little ones who don’t usually love museums will be wowed by the grandeur of the rooms, the golden details, and the fascinating stories behind this royal residence. The Hall of Mirrors is the showstopper here—its shimmering walls, sparkling chandeliers, and dreamy reflections feel straight out of a fairytale.
But Versailles isn’t just about the Château! The gardens are vast, beautiful, and perfect for kids to explore. On our first visit, we went early — before the Château opened—and had the gardens nearly to ourselves. It was such a peaceful way to start the day and gave our kids space to roam freely. (Pro tip: If you’ve got early risers, this is a great way to beat the crowds!)
Don’t miss:
- The Carriage Gallery, located across from the Château in the Grande Écurie. Inside, you’ll find royal carriages (including some made for Marie-Antoinette’s children!) that will spark any little prince or princess’s imagination.
- Seasonal events like the Fountain Shows, Musical Gardens, and the Royal Serenade — all of which add an extra layer of magic to your visit.
‼️Important tip‼️
Lines at the ticket office can be very long, especially in high season. We highly recommend buying your tickets in advance to save time and stress.
How to get to Versailles from Paris
Getting to Versailles from Paris is super easy by public transport—and you have a few options depending on where you’re staying in the city.
Here are the best routes:
- From central Paris: Take the RER C train heading towards Versailles Rive-Gauche Château. The station is just a 5-minute walk from the Château. The journey takes about 1 hour.
- From Paris Montparnasse: Hop on Line N (towards Rambouillet, Dreux, or Mantes-la-Jolie) and get off at Versailles Chantiers. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the station to the Château.
- From Paris Saint-Lazare: Take Line L (via La Défense) to Versailles Rive-Droite. The walk from the station to the Château is about 15 minutes.
- From La Défense: You can also catch Line U toward La Verrière or Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, which stops at Versailles Chantiers.
🚨Important tip🚨
Keep in mind that standard metro tickets (T+) are not valid for these trips. You’ll need to buy specific regional train tickets (called “Métro-Train-RER Ticket”) for everyone in your group.
6. Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier totally surprised us—in the best way. We knew it was beautiful from the outside (you really can’t miss that incredible architecture), but we didn’t expect the inside to be so jaw-droppingly gorgeous… or such a hit with our kids!
We decided to check out the Opéra National de Paris one afternoon, and honestly, it felt like walking into a real-life fairytale. The grand staircase, the gold detailing, the velvet, the chandeliers—it’s all super elegant and straight out of a royal dream. And even though it sounds fancy, our kids were absolutely enchanted. They kept pointing things out and saying, “Wow!” every two seconds.
You can visit with or without a guide (we went self-guided so we could go at our own pace), and your ticket even gives you access to any temporary exhibits they might have going on.
🎟️ Bonus for families: Kids under 12 get in for free, which is always a win!
It’s the perfect stop if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual tourist spots—and it’s also great for a rainy day or just when you need a bit of indoor magic. Highly recommend adding this one to your Paris with kids itinerary. We honestly didn’t want to leave!
If you’re kids are odl enough, you may want to take a look at the Opéra’s programme!
7. Louvre Museum
Okay, I know what you’re thinking — “The Louvre? With kids??” But hear me out… it’s totally doable (and even fun!) with a little planning.
Of course, you’re not going to see the whole thing. The Louvre is massive — you could spend days wandering its halls. But with kids, especially younger ones, we’ve found that one to two hours is the sweet spot. After that, it’s snack time or meltdown time. 😅
So here’s our tip: check out the museum’s website ahead of time and make a little wish list of what you really want to see. That way, you’re not crisscrossing the museum trying to find the Mona Lisa while your toddler is asking for snacks and your 6-year-old wants to go home. Trust us—we’ve learned this one the hard way!
Fun bonus? The Louvre actually has some super cool art workshops for kids aged 4 to 12. It’s a great way to get them engaged (and give everyone a little break from the main museum halls).
⏱️ Skip the line tip: Families with young children can use the priority entrance—don’t be shy, just ask!
So yes, while it’s not your typical kid-friendly spot, the Louvre can be a great cultural stop for the whole family. And hey, when else will your kids be able to say they saw the Mona Lisa in real life?
💡 Family travel tip 💡
If you’re visiting the Louvre with a baby or toddler, we highly recommend leaving the stroller behind if you can. The museum isn’t the easiest to navigate with wheels—there are lots of stairs, and while there are some elevators, they’re not always easy to find (and often crowded). On our visit, we had to carry the stroller up and down more than once—not ideal.
Instead, go for a front-facing baby carrier. Just keep in mind that back carriers aren’t allowed inside the museum. It’s way more convenient and makes exploring the museum a whole lot easier for everyone.
8. Tuileries Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to let the kids run free, the Tuileries Gardens should definitely be on your list. These gorgeous gardens stretch all the way from the Louvre’s famous glass pyramid to Place de la Concorde, and they’re an absolute gem for families visiting Paris with kids.
It’s the perfect place to pause between sightseeing, have a little picnic, or just let the kids burn off some energy. Ours loved the open space, and honestly, so did we! You can stroll past beautiful sculptures by Rodin and Giacometti, relax near the fountains, and enjoy the views — you’ll catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower in the distance and even spot the Arc de Triomphe. One of our favorite memories from our last trip was watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle from here in the evening — such a magical moment.
There’s also one of the best children’s playgrounds in Paris tucked right inside the gardens — it’s a great little bonus if your kids need a fun break from museums and monuments.
And the best part? Access to the gardens is totally free. It’s such a win for families exploring Paris on a budget!
FAMILY TRAVEL TIP
After your Louvre visit, head straight to the Tuileries Gardens for a well-earned break. Trust us, your kids (and your feet!) will thank you. It’s the perfect spot to let them run around, enjoy a snack or picnic, and just be kids after being on their best behavior indoors. It’s one of our favorite little breathing spaces in the city!
9. Cruise on the Seine
Whether it’s your very first time in Paris with your crew or you’ve been a dozen times before, a cruise on the Seine never gets old. It’s such a magical way to see the city — floating past famous monuments, snapping pics from the water, and soaking it all in without any walking involved (a huge win when traveling with kids!).
If you’re exploring Paris with younger children, we highly recommend choosing one of the shorter cruises — about an hour long is perfect. They usually include an audio guide, so you’ll still learn plenty without dragging tired little feet around.
Older kids might enjoy stepping it up a notch with a musical evening cruise, or even one that includes a full 3-course meal. Picture dining on the water while the Eiffel Tower sparkles… total family travel goals.
And one last tip: if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, definitely bring a baby carrier. Strollers aren’t ideal on board and it’ll make things so much easier for you.
No matter how old your kids are, I guarantee that a cruise on the Seine will be one of their favorite activities in Paris!
10. Playground Breaks
Let’s be real — when you’re exploring a city as big and exciting as Paris with kids, you need to build in time for play. Sightseeing is fun, but little legs get tired, and sometimes kids just need to run, climb, swing, and be kids.
The good news? Paris totally gets it. You’ll find playgrounds scattered all over the city — and some of them are seriously cool. Whether you’re wandering near the Eiffel Tower, exploring the Tuileries Gardens, or strolling through the stunning Luxembourg Gardens, chances are there’s a fantastic play area just around the corner.
These little breaks are such a lifesaver. Your kids get to burn off some energy, and you get a few minutes to relax while enjoying iconic Parisian views. Win-win, right?
👉 Want to plan ahead? We’ve rounded up a full list of the best playgrounds in Paris for families.
11. Basilique du Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre
Looking for one of those “pinch me” Paris moments? Head up to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre — it’s hands down one of our favorite stops in the city. The view from up there? Just wow. You can see almost all of Paris stretched out below you, and it makes the climb totally worth it (promise!).
The basilica itself is beautiful — and totally free to visit. Make sure to look up when you go inside… the ceiling is home to the largest mosaic in France! And if you’re feeling up for it (and the kids are still full of energy), you can even climb up to the dome for an even more epic view.
After that? Take your time exploring Montmartre. It’s artsy, vibrant, a little quirky, and just so Paris. Think cobbled streets, little cafés, street artists painting portraits in the square, and music in the air. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a bit longer — maybe grab a crêpe or two while you’re at it!
Oh, and while you’re in the area, don’t miss the Moulin Rouge!
One of the easiest ways to reach Montmarte and its main attractions is with the hop-on hop-off double-decker bus!
12. Disneyland Paris
Let’s be real — if you’re traveling to Paris with kids, there’s a good chance Disneyland Paris is already on your list of places to visit. And honestly? It totally deserves a spot. Just 30 km from the city center, this magical place is the ultimate family day trip and a guaranteed hit with little ones (and grown-ups too!).
However, I think you need to be in Paris for a few days to be able to add it to your itinerary without missing any of the best things to do in Paris with your kids. I’d say you need to spend at the very least 3 full days in Paris to make it worth it!
From fun rides and thrilling attractions to parades, dazzling shows, and surprise meet-and-greets with favorite Disney characters — there’s so much to do here. It’s the kind of day where everyone leaves with sore feet and full hearts.
Just don’t forget your comfy shoes — you’ll definitely get those steps in!
🎢 Pro tip: You definitely don’t need to stay overnight to enjoy the magic. A day trip from Paris is totally doable — and it’s easier than you might think!
How to get to Dinseyland Paris from Paris
The easiest and fastest way to get there is by RER A train. Just hop on at Nation station and ride all the way to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy (that’s the stop right at the park entrance!). The ride takes about 35 minutes, so it’s super convenient for a round trip in one day.
PRO TIP:
A full day at Disneyland is magical… but also seriously tiring — especially for little legs. Don’t pack your itinerary too tightly the next day. Instead, plan something low-key and close to where you’re staying. Trust me, a slower morning and a flexible day will help everyone bounce back faster — and enjoy the rest of your Paris adventure so much more!
13. Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral
After all those years of restoration, Notre-Dame is finally back open, and it’s definitely a must-see with the family! The kids will be amazed by the towering spires, the colorful stained glass, and the whole sense of history in the air. If you’ve read The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, be sure to point out the famous gargoyles — the kids will love spotting them!
Now, I get it — younger kids probably won’t be up for a long history tour, but trust me, just stepping inside and soaking up the beauty of it all is such a memorable experience.
And when you’re done, the Île de la Cité is the perfect place to wander around, grab a treat from a bakery nearby, and just enjoy the vibe of Paris. It’s one of those little moments you’ll all remember!
14. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées
Okay, hear me out — I know the Champs-Élysées sounds super fancy and maybe not the first thing you think of when you’re traveling with kids… but it’s actually a really fun stroll for the whole family!
Depending on how old your kids are (and how much energy everyone has), you can do a bit of shopping or just enjoy the walk. It’s one of those iconic Paris moments that feels kind of surreal — like, wow, we’re really here!
We usually pair it with a visit to the Arc de Triomphe since it’s right there, and it saves us from zig-zagging all over the city. Honestly, the view from the top is totally worth the climb (plus, it’s a good way to burn off a few croissants!!!).
Last time we were there, after the Arc, we found this little terrace restaurant on the Champs-Élysées and just chilled with dinner. I thought it would all be overpriced and super touristy, but we found a great spot with decent prices — and yes, buttery noodles were on the kids’ menu, so everyone was happy.
Totally recommend this combo if you’re in the area — it’s such a fun way to end the day!
15. Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is hands down one of the most stunning museums in Paris — honestly, even just the building itself is worth a visit. But what really makes it shine for families is how kid-friendly it actually is!
We love that the museum offers a whole programme of activities just for kids — and they’re thoughtfully divided by age group. So whether you’re visiting with a curious preschooler or an art-loving tween, there’s something that actually matches their interests and attention span (huge win, right?).
If your little one is between 3 and 5 or 6 and 12, there are special family activities you can enjoy together. And if you’ve got slightly older kids (ages 6 to 8 or 9 to 12), there are even workshops they can do on their own — perfect if you want to wander the museum solo for a bit while they’re learning and creating.
Just a heads-up: all the workshops are in French. So if your kiddos don’t speak much (or any) French, they might not get the full experience — but even so, the hands-on parts can still be fun!
It’s such a creative way to explore a world-class museum with your kids — and bonus, it’s indoors, so perfect for a rainy day in Paris.
Tips for Making the Most of Paris with Kids
There you have it — some of the very best things to do in Paris with kids that are fun, memorable, and totally doable as a family. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, Paris has this special way of making every visit feel magical, especially when you’re seeing it through your kids’ eyes.
Now that you’ve got your list of must-do family activities, it’s time to start piecing the trip together — and that usually starts with figuring out where to stay. Some areas of Paris are just easier (and more fun!) to navigate with little ones in tow, and finding the right base can really make your trip smoother. Once you’ve figured out which neighborhood feels like the right fit for your family, you’ll be ready to check out some great, budget-friendly hotel options that don’t skimp on comfort or convenience.
Paris with kids? You’ve totally got this.
Read more about Paris with kids!
- Where to Stay with Kids in Paris: 6 Best Areas
- 15 Best Things To Do In Paris With Kids (Fun Guaranteed)
- 10 BEST Budget Hotels in Paris for Families Worth Booking Now
- 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Paris with Kids & what you should do
- One Day in Paris Itinerary: 24H in Paris with Kids Made Easy
- 3 Days in Paris with Kids: The Ultimate Paris Itinerary You Need
- 11 Most Fun Things to Do in Paris at Night: A Guide for Families
- 15 FREE Things To Do In Paris With Kids You’ll Love!
- Paris with a Toddler: Ultimate Travel Guide for Families
- Paris at Christmas: Why It’s Pure Magic With Kids
- Paris in April: Your Family Travel Guide for Paris in the Spring
- Paris in November : How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip
- 10 Unforgettable Day Trips from Paris by Train
- Best Playgrounds in Paris for Families
- Best Hot Chocolate in Paris – Top 10 Spots for Families
