10 Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids

Visiting Paris with kids can be a magical experience, filled with adventure and discovery in the City of Light. From iconic landmarks to family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, making it a perfect destination for families. In this article, we’ll share essential tips to help you navigate Paris with children, ensuring a memorable and stress-free trip for the whole family.

Here are some tips for visiting Paris with kids:

Eiffel Tower Adventure

Make this iconic landmark a must-visit. Take the elevator to the top for breathtaking views, and let kids enjoy the interactive exhibits on each level. Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and bring some snacks and water to keep children entertained during the wait.

Disneyland Paris Excursion

Located just outside the city, Disneyland Paris is a guaranteed kid-pleaser. Plan at least one full day to explore both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. The park offers attractions that blend Disney magic with a distinctly French twist, making it a unique experience for children and adults alike.

Museum Strategies

Not all museums are kid-friendly, but some are fantastic for children:

Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits
Natural History Museum: Dinosaur displays and a beautiful botanical garden
Paris Aquarium: Fascinating marine life exhibits that will captivate kids

Luxembourg Gardens

This beautiful park is perfect for kids. It features:

A fantastic playground
Puppet shows
Vintage carousel
Toy sailboats to rent and sail in the fountain
Plenty of space for running and playing

Seine River Cruise

A 1-hour boat tour can be exciting for children. Choose a daytime cruise with commentary, and point out landmarks. The open-air boats allow kids to move around and enjoy the scenery without feeling confined.

Picnic Culture

Paris is wonderful for picnics. Visit local markets to buy fresh bread, cheese, and fruits, then enjoy them in parks like:

Champ de Mars (near the Eiffel Tower)
Tuileries Garden
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Restaurant Etiquette with Children

French restaurants can be formal, but you can navigate this smoothly:

Choose restaurants with children’s menus
Arrive early for dinner (French families eat late, around 7:30-8:30 PM)
Teach kids basic French phrases like “s’il vous plaît” (please) and “merci” (thank you)
Be prepared with small activities like coloring books to keep children seated
Consider casual bistros and cafés which are more child-tolerant

Transportation Tips

Buy a multi-day metro pass
Teach kids how to use public transportation
Consider renting strollers or bringing lightweight, compact ones
Be prepared to walk – comfortable shoes are essential

Treat and Snack Exploration

Introduce kids to French treats:

Crêpes from street vendors
Macarons from patisseries
Hot chocolate at famous cafés
Ice cream at Berthillon on Île Saint-Louis

Cultural Preparation

Before the trip:

Read children’s books about Paris
Watch movies set in the city
Learn a few French words together
Discuss cultural differences and expectations

Pro Tips:

Always carry snacks and water
Pack layers – Paris weather can be unpredictable
Have a flexible itinerary
Take breaks when kids get tired
Embrace unexpected moments and adventures

Remember, the key is to balance structured activities with free time and spontaneity. Not every moment needs to be a museum or landmark visit – sometimes the best memories are made while wandering streets, enjoying a park, or discovering a charming café.