Paris with Kids: What to Do, See & Skip (2026 Guide)

Affiliate Disclosure: This post on things to do with kids in Paris contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. 

Introduction

Planning a family trip and wondering about the best things to do in Paris with kids? Whether you dream of riding carousels, enjoying the stunning view from the Eiffel Tower, or exploring the newly reopened Notre Dame, you’re in the right place!

See also: The Best Paris Family Hotels

Use the menu below to quickly find what you’re looking for, or start with our 90-second video for instant inspiration on things to do in Paris with kids. For your convenience, I have also included a little Google map at the end of this post with all my favorite attractions marked.

Paris for Kids Video

This short video is designed to spark excitement and get you in the perfect frame of mind for your Paris family trip. All of the Paris kids activities featured in the video are described in detail in the sections below, so you won’t miss a thing.

Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids by Age

One of the things I love about Paris is that it can be a wonderful city to visit with children of almost any age. That said, what makes a great day out with a toddler is probably quite different from what will impress a teenager!

If you’re wondering which activities to prioritize, here are a few of my suggestions based on your children’s ages.

Paris with Babies (Under 2)

Keep things flexible with leisurely walks through the city’s beautiful gardens, strolls along the Seine and short sightseeing outings that leave plenty of time for breaks. Personally, I’d recommend sticking close to the neighbourhood where you’re staying and enjoying a more local Parisian experience. Think picnics in the park, visits to baby-friendly cafés and simply soaking up the atmosphere, rather than racing around the city trying to squeeze in major attractions with long lineups.

Paris with Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 2–5)

Think carousels, playgrounds, parks, boat rides and stops for gelato. The trick is to keep active little ones entertained without packing so much into the day that everyone ends up exhausted. You might even squeeze in a museum visit, although I’d skip the crowds and enormous galleries of the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay in favour of one of Paris’s many smaller museums. The Eiffel Tower can also be a big hit at this age, but you don’t necessarily need to go up it. Simply admiring it from the Champ de Mars, with plenty of room to run around, can be an experience in itself. At this age, it’s often the simplest things that make the biggest impression.

Paris with School-Age Kids (Ages 6–12)

I think this is the real sweet spot for exploring Paris with kids! At this age, children are generally old enough to appreciate the city’s famous landmarks and handle the longer days and occasional lineups that come with visiting major attractions. When my own kids were 6 and 9, we tackled all the big sights, including a day trip to Versailles, and had a wonderful time. That said, I’d still recommend looking into family-focused tours, especially for museums, where a good guide can make all the difference between kids being fascinated and completely bored. This is also a fantastic age to mix sightseeing with more hands-on experiences, such as a family cooking class, a treasure hunt through the city or even a bike tour along the Seine. A little variety goes a long way towards keeping everyone happy!

Paris with Teenagers (Ages 13+)

Travelling with teenagers gets both easier and harder. Easier because they have the stamina to pack more into a day, can navigate the city with you and generally need a lot less hands-on help. Harder because, well, teenagers! Even the most enthusiastic young travellers can develop a certain degree of apathy when faced with another day of sightseeing. My advice? Get them involved in the planning process before you even leave home. Let them research activities, choose a few must-dos and have a say in how you spend your days. You could even give them a budget and let them plan an afternoon, from choosing where to eat to deciding what to see and do. Whether it’s a French cooking class, vintage shopping in the Marais, cycling along the Seine, photography or exploring Paris’s cooler neighbourhoods, these experiences can be just as memorable as ticking off the major landmarks. 

The 15 Best Things to do with Kids in Paris

Paris is a city that enchants visitors of all ages, and there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences for families. Let’s dive in to the very best things to do in Paris for children.

The Eiffel Tower

Option A: Enjoy the Eiffel Tower from Below

Take the Paris Métro to Trocadéro Station, following the signs for the Eiffel Tower as you exit. You’ll emerge onto the Trocadéro esplanade, where you’ll be treated to one of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

From here, you can make your way down the steps toward the Eiffel Tower. The Jardins du Trocadéro are currently affected by construction, so don’t expect the beautifully landscaped gardens you may have seen in older photos. However, there is still a small, free playground on your right as you descend toward the tower, which is a handy stop if you’re visiting with younger children.

Tip: If you time your visit for dusk, you can join the Trocadero crowds in a collective “ahhhh” as the tower’s twinkling lights come to life. It’s quite magical!

From here, you can proceed to the Eiffel Tower grounds and explore its lovely gardens without buying a ticket to go up. Although the tower is surrounded by a security perimeter, access to the grounds is completely free. Simply pass through security at Entrance 1 (South) or Entrance 2 (East).

We took this relaxed, strolling approach to the Eiffel Tower on our first family trip to Paris, when my youngest had just turned five. Honestly, I wish we’d stopped there. It would have been the perfect evening in Paris with kids.

Unfortunately, my eldest knew that going up the tower was an option and was determined to do it! So, I bought tickets on-site to climb the stairs to the second floor, followed by the elevator to the summit.

Ticket Tip: Tickets for the stairs to the second floor are almost always available to buy onsite at the south (blue) pillar. Combination stair + elevator tickets to the summit are sold in very limited numbers online (around two weeks in advance, I believe) and are also available onsite when the tower isn’t too busy.

Important: If you’ve purchased tickets online, bring identification for everyone in your group, including children. A passport isn’t specifically required, but ID may be checked against your tickets, and proof of age may be requested for discounted fares.

My kids loved the stair climb, which took about 25 minutes. However, their interest in the view from the second floor lasted all of five minutes! Afterward, we joined the long line for the elevator to the top. After waiting 30 minutes and realizing we were only halfway through, we decided to call it quits.

If you can stick to enjoying the Eiffel Tower from below at dusk, it’s a truly enchanting experience. For daytime visits, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Paris with a toddler, a picnic on the Champ de Mars lawn beside the tower is another lovely option. These grassy lawns are generally open for picnicking from spring through early autumn, although some areas may close for maintenance.

Option B: Going up the Tower

On a later visit, when my kids were older, we pre-booked elevator tickets to the summit online. When purchasing tickets, you can choose between the second floor (which also includes first-floor access) and the summit (which includes access to all three levels).

Honestly, though, I prefer the view from the second floor. It’s less obstructed and feels less “cage-like.” You can see the difference in the photos below.

If you have time, the first floor is also worth exploring. There’s a glass floor, interactive exhibits, a children’s play area, and several places to eat and drink, including Madame Brasserie, a sit-down restaurant with spectacular views over Paris. I haven’t spent much time on this level myself, but I imagine an overpriced glass of rosé with that view would be rather glorious!

Getting Tickets

Book your tickets through the official Eiffel Tower website, especially during busy periods (which seem to be pretty much all the time in Paris these days!).

• Elevator tickets to the second floor or summit are released up to 90 days ahead.

• Stair tickets to the second floor are released up to 60 days ahead.

• Stairs + summit elevator tickets are primarily sold on-site, with limited online availability.

Bring identification for everyone, including children, as it may be checked.

What if the Eiffel Tower is Sold Out Online?

Don’t panic! You still have a few options.

• Buy tickets on-site. Enter through the security line for visitors without tickets. Ticket booths are inside the security perimeter, although queues can be long and summit access isn’t guaranteed. (Try to go before 10am for the shortest lineups.)

• Take the stairs. Tickets for the 674-step climb to the second floor, or stairs plus an elevator to the summit, are almost always available at the blue South Pillar booth.

• Try a guided tour. Tour companies listed on platforms such as Viator and Get Your Guide often have availability when official online tickets are sold out. (But do expect to pay a little more.)

Option C: Dine at Madame Brasserie

Located on the first floor, Madame Brasserie is a contemporary French restaurant by renowned chef Thierry Marx, offering lunch and dinner with spectacular views over Paris.

If you’re visiting with kids, there are a few things worth knowing before you book.

Children aged 4–11 can enjoy a discounted children’s menu, currently priced at €39.80 for lunch or €46.80 for dinner (as of October 2026). Possibly the most expensive children’s menu you’ll ever come across! 😨 However, these prices are only available with Coeur Brasserie (central) seating, rather than the premium window tables. Adults can choose from several menus at different price points.

You can book Madame Brasserie directly here.

Your restaurant reservation includes elevator access to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, but not the second floor or summit. If you want to explore the upper levels, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets through the official Eiffel Tower website. I recommend visiting the upper levels before your meal, allowing plenty of time between the two.

If you’d prefer to visit for brunch, reservations are not required. There’s also a lounge that welcomes children, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Seine Boat Cruises

I’m a big fan of taking a Seine boat tour during a first family vacation to Paris. It’s a great way to get your bearings, as you can see many of the city’s major sights from the water, including the Eiffel Tower.

It’s also a wonderfully low-key activity when you’re dealing with jet lag, allowing everyone to relax while still taking in the city. ( I’ve also found that my kids are happiest when kept on the move!)

There are several companies that run sightseeing cruises along the Seine. Popular options include Bateaux Vedettes du Pont Neuf, Bateaux-Mouches, and Bateaux Parisiens. Most offer commentary in several languages, and some also run lunch and dinner cruises.

Important: Sunset cruises are especially popular and can get quite busy. I recommend booking your tickets in advance or, if that’s not possible, arriving at the dock a little early to get a good spot in line.

See also: Seine River cruises (private and shared) on Viator or Get Your Guide.

Batobus: Hop-On, Hop-Off River Transport

Alternatively, the Batobus is a hop-on, hop-off boat service that runs along the Seine. It has nine stops connecting major tourist attractions along the river, making it a convenient way to get around while sightseeing. A full loop takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, and passes are available in 24- and 48-hour increments. Children under four travel free.

The Batobus is worth considering if you’d prefer to explore Paris at your own pace rather than take a traditional sightseeing cruise. The company has also recently added a downloadable audioguide.

Family Friendly Seine Dinner Cruise

On one trip, in search of fun things to do in Paris with kids, I decided to try an evening dinner cruise along the Seine. We chose the boat Le Calife because it had excellent reviews and offered a kids’ menu (see photo below – the 45 euro kids’ menu is subject to change).

The food on Le Calife was very good (not amazing…but very good), and we thought the overall experience was lovely. One thing to keep in mind is that there isn’t a lot of room to move around on the boat. If you have a young child with you, I’d recommend bringing along a couple of quiet activities to keep them occupied during the 2.5-hour trip.

The dinner cruise departs at 8 pm, which may be a little late for some families. Le Calife also offers a lunch cruise on weekends, which could be a better option if you’re travelling with younger children.

Tip: Not all seats on Le Calife offer the same viewing opportunities, so check the seating arrangements when booking. If seating is flexible, arriving early may give you a better chance of getting a table with good views.

If Le Calife is fully booked or isn’t the right fit for your family, there are plenty of other Seine lunch and dinner cruises to choose from. See options for Seine lunch and dinner cruises on Viator and Get Your Guide.

Luxembourg Gardens

The beautiful Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) in Paris’s 6th arrondissement are a must-visit with kids. With tree-lined paths, fountains, and lovely flower beds, they’re a great place to take a break from sightseeing.

Best of all, the gardens have one of the best playgrounds in Paris! Oh yes, and I almost forgot the most important part – the playground is fenced! On my first trip to Paris, I was travelling alone with my kids, so this was a real sanity-saver. I still remember how nice it was to sit on a bench and actually enjoy a coffee while watching them play!

The playground, called Ludo Jardin, has climbing structures, slides, and plenty of space to burn off energy. Admission costs €2.50 per child and €1.50 per adult (October 2026).

Just outside the playground, you’ll find a lovely old-fashioned carousel dating back to 1879. What makes this one especially fun is the traditional ring-catching game (jeu de bagues). Children riding the outer horses are given a little stick and try to catch metal rings as they go around. It’s such a fun little Parisian tradition!

Nearby is the Théâtre des Marionnettes, a traditional puppet theatre offering performances on Wednesdays, weekends, and during French school holidays.

Another favourite activity is renting one of the colourful wooden sailboats to sail around the Grand Bassin. Kids use long sticks to launch their boats and chase them around the pond as the breeze carries them along. Rentals cost approximately €8 for 30 minutes. Pony rides are also available on Wednesdays, weekends, and during French school holidays, weather permitting (approximately €9.50 per ride).

The gardens are free to enter, although activities cost extra. Check the official website for seasonal opening hours.

My tip: Pick up some pastries or sandwiches from a nearby bakery and enjoy a picnic in the gardens. Most of the lawns are off-limits, but there are plenty of those lovely green Parisian chairs where you can sit and relax. A few designated grassy areas near the southern end of the gardens may also be open for picnicking.

Note: If you’re shopping for chic children’s clothing in Paris, the surrounding neighbourhood has lovely boutiques, including Petit Bateau, Jacadi, and Marie Puces.

Notre Dame de Paris

To much fanfare, Notre Dame de Paris reopened its doors in December 2024, five and a half years after a devastating fire severely damaged its roof and destroyed its spire.

How to Visit Notre Dame in 2026

The easiest way to visit Notre Dame de Paris in 2026 is to make a free online reservation. Reservations are offered in 15-minute time slots, allowing you to bypass the regular visitor lineup.

While the official Notre Dame website states that bookings only open a few hours before your visit, this doesn’t seem to be entirely accurate. Many visitors have reported securing reservations a day ahead.

It appears that reservations are released in batches, some around midnight (Paris time) the day before your visit, and others on the day itself. I found a particularly helpful Reddit discussion about visiting Notre Dame with detailed, regularly updated advice on securing a reservation.

My recommendation: Start checking two days ahead, particularly just after midnight Paris time (if you can manage to stay up that late!). If nothing is available, keep trying the following day.

Can you visit Notre Dame without a reservation? Absolutely! Visitors without reservations simply join a separate queue. From what I’ve read, many people wait only 10–30 minutes. That said, when I visited on a Saturday afternoon (Oct. 2026), the lineup was enormous. I would estimate the wait was at least 90 minutes, possibly longer. For the shortest lineups, try visiting before 9 a.m. on a weekday, or on a Thursday evening when the cathedral stays open later.

Notre Dame opening hours:

• Monday–Wednesday and Friday: 7:50 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 7:50 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Saturday–Sunday: 8:15 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Opening times may vary for religious services and special events.

Make your free reservation on the official Notre Dame website.

NOTE: Please only reserve through the official website. Fake tickets have become quite a problem, and admission to Notre Dame is completely free.

Notre Dame From the Outside

I also think there’s absolutely nothing wrong with simply admiring Notre Dame from the outside. In fact, if you’re visiting Paris with very young children, this may be all you can manage. (It’s exactly what I did on my first trip with my kids!)

From here, it’s fun to cross the little bridge behind Notre Dame to Île Saint-Louis for an ice cream treat. Just a short walk from the bridge is Berthillon, considered by many to serve some of the best ice cream in Paris (although there are some pretty amazing newer places in Le Marais!).

While I adore Berthillon, I must admit that on a recent visit, my teeny-tiny boule de chocolat was almost laughably small for €6!

My kids prefer Amorino and its pretty, petal-shaped gelato. There are more than a dozen locations around Paris, including one just two short blocks from Berthillon, around the corner on Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île.

Hot Tip: I still think Berthillon has the better ice cream, but on my most recent visit, I discovered a little trick. Continue along Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, past Amorino, then turn left onto Rue des Deux Ponts. On your left, you’ll find a small creperie called Pom’Cannelle (open daily from 12pm) that also serves Berthillon ice cream and sorbets. The difference? €4 a scoop instead of €6! Not bad for an extra three-minute walk, especially if you’re buying ice cream for the whole family.

Jardin des Tuileries

The Jardin des Tuileries, one of the top things to do in Paris with children, is a sprawling, manicured garden where kids can run, shout, and burn off energy. This iconic destination boasts a wonderful fenced playground, a trampoline park, a carousel, and often a gelato stand or two.

Conveniently located between the Louvre and the Musée de L’Orangerie Impressionist Gallery, the Jardin des Tuileries is an ideal spot to reward kids after a museum visit.

From late June until late August, the park also becomes home to the Tuileries Fairground, one of the best Paris things to do with kids. This temporary amusement park offers over sixty carnival rides and attractions. The Ferris wheel is also a great way to get a fabulous view of the city.

For more information about the gardens, including their history and what to see, visit the official Tuileries Garden guide.

Note: If you happen to be in Paris during the winter, the Jardin des Tuileries hosts a traditional Christmas market and ice rink from mid-November to the first weekend in January.

Paris Museums for Kids

Paris has some incredible museums, but let’s be honest, not all of them are going to be a hit with young children! The good news is that most museums have exhibits and activities designed specifically for kids. Even better, many of Paris’s most famous museums, including the Louvre and Musée de l’Orangerie, are free for children under 18.

Musée de l’Orangerie

On our first visit to Paris, I chose to take my kids to just one art museum: the Musée de l’Orangerie. It’s relatively small and manageable, making it a great introduction to art museums for younger children. The highlight is Monet’s Water Lilies — eight enormous panoramic paintings displayed across two beautiful oval rooms. They’re quite spectacular, even if you’re not particularly interested in art! You’ll also find works by Cézanne, Renoir, Picasso, and Matisse.

Another bonus? The museum is right beside the Tuileries Garden, with its playground, carousel, and seasonal trampolines. The promise of some playground time afterwards can work wonders when you’re trying to get kids to hold it together in a museum!

October 2026 update: The Orangerie is particularly busy right now because of its special Monet exhibition (until January 25, 2027). There’s also a new virtual reality experience, Claude Monet, Along the Water, running until February 15, 2027 (recommended for ages 13+, minimum age 8). Tickets are currently booking up about two weeks in advance, so be sure to plan ahead and, if possible, choose a time slot right at opening to avoid the worst of the crowds.

The Louvre

The Louvre is another beast entirely! Its massive size and crowds can make visiting with kids a little overwhelming (and, let’s face it, stressful!). My best recommendation is to book a family tour that focuses on a small selection of artworks, with engaging storytelling to keep kids interested, rather than trying to tackle the whole museum.

On one of our early visits, we booked a private family tour of the Louvre with Context Travel. It was pricey, for sure, but absolutely worth it! Our guide brought the artwork to life through stories and interesting details we would almost certainly have missed on our own. It made the whole experience so much more enjoyable for everyone. (Context Travel also offers a whole suite of other excellent Paris family tours, both private and small group.)

A more affordable option: The Louvre offers its own family guided tours, designed for children ages 6 and up. As of October 2026, these cost €12 per person (€9 reduced rate), in addition to any applicable museum admission. This sells out in advance so please book this well ahead of your planned visit.

Planning to visit independently? Take a look at the Louvre’s excellent official guide to visiting with kids. It includes practical tips, family activities, and information about the Studio, a free creative space where kids can take a break from looking at art. The Louvre itself recommends keeping visits short rather than trying to see everything!

Paris Museums for Younger Kids

If you’re visiting with toddlers or younger children, here are a few other museums worth considering:

• Cité des Enfants (ages 2–6): A great option for little ones! Located in Parc de la Villette, this interactive science museum has water play, construction activities, and plenty of hands-on exhibits. Book a timed session ahead.

• Musée en Herbe (ages 3+): A small, playful art museum in central Paris, with interactive exhibitions designed for children.

• Grande Galerie de l’Évolution (ages 3+): A spectacular natural history gallery in the Jardin des Plantes, filled with animal specimens, including elephants and giraffes. Great for little animal lovers! (Sorry, this one is currently closed for renovations until late 2027.)

• Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (ages 5+): An unusual museum in the Marais exploring animals, art, and nature. Just be aware that it also focuses on hunting and includes taxidermy, so it won’t appeal to every family.

More Family-Friendly Paris Museum Tours

You can also find family-focused museum tours on Viator, including:

• Private Family Tour of the Louvre Museum
• Private Family Tour – City Highlights and Louvre
• Private Family Tour of the Paris Orsay Museum
• Louvre Museum Family Tour and Treasure Hunt

Tips for Visiting Paris Museums with Kids

• Book ahead. Popular museums can sell out, especially during school holidays. Reserve timed-entry tickets even when admission is free for children.

• Visit at opening. Museums are often quieter first thing in the morning. Alternatively, consider evening openings with teens. The Louvre stays open until 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.

• Keep visits short. With younger kids, choose a few highlights rather than trying to see everything.

• Check closure days. The Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, and Grande Galerie de l’Évolution are closed on Tuesdays, while the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is closed on Mondays. Check current opening schedules for the Cité des Enfants and Musée en Herbe before visiting.

• Watch this video. If you’re visiting the Louvre independently, I highly recommend this video with practical Louvre tips. It includes advice on using the underground Carrousel du Louvre entrance, where you’ll find bathrooms, shops, and food options nearby. (Please note though, it can still be very lined up. Even with timed tickets, it took us 75 minutes to get inside on an Easter weekend Saturday.)

Paris Kids Cooking Classes

Why just buy pastries when your budding chef can learn to make them during your family trip to Paris? Cook’n with Class offers fantastic pastry and cooking workshops for kids, creating a memorable, hands-on experience.

Classes include everything from making French chocolates and macarons to baking croissants and preparing a three-course French meal. Most are designed for children ages 6–12, although some welcome older kids too. There are both kids-only workshops and classes where a parent joins in the fun. Be sure to check the age requirements before booking, and reserve ahead, as classes can fill up!

My daughter absolutely loved her French desserts workshop at Cook’n with Class. In fact, of all the activities we’ve enjoyed together in Paris over multiple trips, this is the one she still talks about most fondly!

Even better, the cooking school is located in Montmartre, not far from Sacré-Cœur. I highly recommend combining a cooking class with some time exploring this lovely neighbourhood. There’s plenty to see and do here with kids, as you’ll discover in the next section!

More Paris Cooking Classes for Kids

If Cook’n with Class doesn’t work with your schedule, there are plenty of other fun options for budding chefs in Paris. Here are a couple of family-friendly workshops worth checking out on Viator:

• Award-Winning Family Macaron Class (2 hours)
• Paris Family Pastry Class Near Notre-Dame (2 hours)

For older kids and teens, I also love the idea of this more personal experience available through GetYourGuide:

• Pastry Lessons from a French Grandmother

Be sure to check the minimum ages and whether parents need to participate before booking.

Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

Montmartre is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Paris, and I think it’s a great place to explore with kids. Perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, it has a completely different feel from much of the city, with its narrow cobblestone streets, little cafés, and artists working at their easels.

The main attraction is the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which sits at the very top of the hill. It’s free to go inside, but even if you don’t, the views over Paris from the steps outside are worth the trip!

Now, getting up there with kids can be a bit of a challenge. There are a LOT of stairs! Thankfully, there’s a little funicular that takes you almost to the top. It uses the same tickets as the Paris Métro, and I think kids will enjoy the ride almost as much as the destination.

Once you’ve visited Sacré-Cœur, wander over to Place du Tertre, the famous artists’ square. You’ll find painters selling their work and artists offering portraits and caricatures. From there, take some time to wander through Montmartre’s pretty little streets, stopping for a crêpe or an ice cream along the way. It’s a lovely area to explore without too much of a plan.

My tip: Try to visit Montmartre early in the morning. The area around Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre gets VERY busy, especially in the afternoon. It’s so much nicer before the crowds arrive.

Good to know: Montmartre is quite hilly, with cobblestones and plenty of stairs. If you’re visiting Paris with a baby or toddler, I’d recommend a carrier rather than a stroller. And if you’re travelling with older kids who have plenty of energy, you can also climb the dome of Sacré-Cœur for even more spectacular views over Paris. There is an admission fee, and you’ll need to tackle around 300 stairs!

Jardin D’Acclimation

A fantastic way to spend a day in Paris with kids is by exploring the attractions at Jardin d’Acclimatation. This charming park offers amusement rides, a train, an adventure playground, wacky mirrors, a puppet theater, a water park, trampolines, and even a farm.

Although I was initially hesitant about taking my kids to an amusement park in Paris (it didn’t feel very cultural), there was just enough “French-ness” to ease my guilt. By that, I mean we savored French snacks, enjoyed a show at the quintessentially French marionette theater, rode the carousel, and observed French families having picnic lunches that seemed to consist of little more than chocolate biscuits, wine, and cheese.

Keep in mind that, like many amusement parks, this Paris kids’ attraction can be a bit overpriced. Learn more at Jardin D’Acclimatation.

Picnics in Paris

Enjoy lunch in plain d’air in one of Paris’s beautiful parks or plazas. On our most recent trip, I brought along a picnic blanket specifically for this purpose. We spent a beautiful afternoon at Place de Vosges (the city’s oldest planned square) – and yes, I just might be holding a glass of wine in the photo. When in Paris…

For more family picnic spot suggestions, see this post on the best spots for a picnic in Paris written by a local. If you are looking at things to do in Paris with a baby or a toddler, personally, I think a picnic is just the most wonderful activity.

Paris Perfume Workshop

Did you know that several Paris perfumeries offer workshops where you can create your very own custom fragrance? It’s such a fun way to experience a little piece of French culture, and you get to take home a rather lovely souvenir!

One option is Candora Atelier de Parfums (ages 6+), which offers special family workshops where kids can discover different scents, learn a little about the art of perfumery, and create their own fragrance to take home.

I think this is an especially lovely activity for creative kids, tweens, and teens. And unlike many Paris souvenirs, this is one they’ll have made themselves!

See Also:

• Fragonard Perfume-Making Workshop and Museum Tour (ages 8+) – GetYourGuide
• Maison Molinard Perfume-Making Workshop – Viator

Visit Monet’s Garden in Giverny

If you have an extra day in Paris, consider a trip to Claude Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny, a picturesque village in Normandy, about an hour’s drive from Paris.

The gardens are absolutely beautiful, with colourful flowerbeds, weeping willows, and the famous Japanese bridge overlooking the water lily pond that inspired some of Monet’s most celebrated paintings. You can also tour his charming pink house with its green shutters, colourful rooms, and wonderful collection of Japanese prints.

It’s a lovely outing for families, especially if your kids enjoy art, gardens, or simply having a little space to explore away from the bustle of Paris.

 “Jardins de Claude Monet (3)” by B@rberousse is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

My tip: I highly recommend visiting the Musée de l’Orangerie in the Tuileries Gardens before heading to Giverny. The museum houses Monet’s enormous Water Lilies paintings in two specially designed oval rooms. Seeing these masterpieces up close makes visiting the very gardens that inspired them all the more special!

Getting to Monet’s Garden from Paris

You can reach Giverny by taking a train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon–Giverny (approximately 45–55 minutes), followed by a short shuttle bus or taxi ride to the gardens.

Alternatively, several companies offer half-day tours from Paris, which can be especially convenient when travelling with kids.

Good to know: Monet’s house and gardens are seasonal, generally opening from April through October (and sometimes into early November). Book tickets ahead, particularly during the busy spring and summer months.

Learn more: Claude Monet’s House and Gardens – Official Website

See Also:

• Giverny and Monet’s House Half-Day Trip from Paris (Viator)
• Giverny and Monet’s Gardens Tours from Paris (GetYourGuide)

Do a Paris Photo Shooot

In most families, there is one person who is conspicuously missing from family photos. In ours, it happens to be me since my husband has zero interest in taking photos. If I can cajole him into taking a photo with me in it (making me feel slightly narcissistic), I am rarely in focus.

One of the best things I have ever done while on vacation is to set up a short family photoshoot with a local photographer. I love using Flytographer for this because they make organizing the shoot so easy.

With Flytographer, you simply input your destination, choose your photographer (from a carefully curated selection) and pick your package. Flytographer offers four different photography packages that run 30-120 minutes ($325-$715 USD) and include 15-60 high resolution, fully edited photos.

Click HERE to receive $25 off your first Flytographer booking or gift card purchase. Once you have created an account and made a request on their website, the discount will show up automatically during checkout.

Versailles with Kids

To be 100% honest, my kids enjoyed the magnificent grounds of the Palace of Versailles more than the palace itself. The palace is certainly impressive, but it can get incredibly crowded, and long lines and room after room of royal furnishings aren’t always a winning combination with kids!

On our visit, I followed some excellent advice and explored the grounds first, leaving the palace until about an hour before closing. By then, the crowds had thinned considerably, and we were able to whip through relatively quickly.

My tip: You’ll find plenty of advice recommending that you visit Versailles first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds. But if you’ve just arrived from North America, getting kids going early can be a challenge. Until everyone adjusts to the time difference, 9 am in France might still feel like the middle of the night!

If you decide to follow our strategy, just be sure to book a late-afternoon timed-entry ticket in advance and check the last admission time.

The Queen’s Hamlet at Versailles

One of the most delightful places for kids at Versailles isn’t the palace at all, but the Queen’s Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine).

Marie Antoinette commissioned this charming little village in 1783 as a retreat from the formality of court life. With its picturesque cottages, gardens, pond, and working farm, it feels like something out of a storybook.

Kids can peek at the cottages and visit the farm, where they may spot sheep, goats, and other animals. It’s a lovely change of pace from the grandeur of the palace!

Getting to Versailles from Paris

Getting to Versailles from Paris is surprisingly easy, even with kids in tow! The simplest option for most families is to take the RER C train to Versailles Château–Rive Gauche, which takes roughly 30–40 minutes from central Paris, depending on where you board. From the station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the palace.

You can also catch a train from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers or from Gare Saint-Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite. Both stations are about a 20-minute walk from the palace.

Allow around an hour each way, including connections and walking time. And remember, you’ll be doing plenty more walking once you arrive!

Getting Around Versailles with Kids

The Versailles estate is enormous, and little legs can tire quickly. Thankfully, there are several fun ways to explore without walking everywhere.

Options include electric golf carts, a little train, and bike rentals (including e-bikes). Cycling is a particularly lovely way to explore the park and the paths around the Grand Canal, although bikes aren’t permitted in the formal palace gardens. You can also rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal, which is especially nice on a sunny day.

For families with older kids and teens, a guided Versailles bike tour with a market visit and picnic is another fun way to experience the estate.

Learn more: Official Palace of Versailles Website

See Also: Private Family Tour of Versailles from Paris (Viator.com)

Disneyland Paris

I have a lot to say about our visit to Disneyland Paris. From a cultural perspective, I felt a little guilty about taking my kids there when we could have been exploring somewhere more authentically French, like Parc Astérix. But I’ll admit that I was also a little curious to see the French version of “the happiest place on earth.”

Well, let me start by saying that my kids absolutely loved it!

Disneyland Paris is smaller than its American counterparts, particularly Walt Disney World in Florida, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, many families prefer its more manageable size. There’s less ground to cover, it’s easier to navigate with younger children, and you can enjoy plenty of Disney magic without committing several days of your vacation to it. If you’re visiting Paris with kids and only have a day to spare, that’s a pretty big advantage!

Now, I will admit that I had a few reservations. Even as a child, I remember being impressed by how immaculate everything was at Disneyland in California. When we visited Disneyland Paris, it felt a little rougher around the edges, and some of that famous Disney attention to detail seemed to be missing.

Did my five- and eight-year-old notice? Not in the slightest! They had an absolutely wonderful time. And I must confess that my own experience improved considerably once I discovered I could order a glass of wine with lunch. Only in France!

Of course, a lot has changed since our visit. Disney has been investing heavily in the Paris resort, with major hotel renovations, refreshed attractions, and an exciting expansion that has given visitors even more reasons to go.

What’s New at Disneyland Paris in 2026?

The biggest news is the opening of Disney Adventure World on March 29, 2026. Formerly known as Walt Disney Studios Park, the resort’s second theme park has undergone a major transformation, including an entirely new Frozen-themed land.

Highlights include:

• World of Frozen: Step into the Kingdom of Arendelle, complete with Elsa’s Ice Palace, a family-friendly Frozen Ever After boat ride, and opportunities to meet Anna and Elsa.
• Adventure Way: A new landscaped promenade with gardens, restaurants, entertainment, and Raiponce Tangled Spin, a family attraction inspired by Tangled.
• Adventure Bay: A spectacular new lake that serves as the setting for Disney Cascade of Lights, a nighttime show featuring drones, fountains, and special effects.

Take a peek at the new Disney Adventure World in this short video!

For the latest attractions, tickets, and park information, visit the official Disneyland Paris website.

How to Get to Disneyland Paris from Central Paris

One of the great things about Disneyland Paris is that you don’t necessarily need to stay overnight. It’s an easy day trip from central Paris.

Simply take the RER A train toward Marne-la-Vallée–Chessy from one of several central stations, including Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, Auber, Châtelet–Les Halles, Gare de Lyon, or Nation. The journey takes approximately 35–45 minutes, depending on where you board.

Marne-la-Vallée–Chessy station is right beside the Disneyland Paris entrances, making this a relatively straightforward outing, even with kids in tow.

You can purchase park tickets directly through Disneyland Paris or explore Disneyland Paris ticket and transportation options on Viator.

My Tip: If you’re visiting both parks, particularly with younger children, don’t underestimate how tiring a full Disney day can be. Prioritize your must-do attractions, allow time for breaks, and resist the temptation to squeeze absolutely everything in.

Where to Stay at Disneyland Paris

For some families, spending a night or two at Disneyland Paris can make the experience much more relaxing. Staying overnight means you’re not rushing back to Paris after a long day, you can take advantage of early park access at eligible Disney hotels, and you have somewhere to retreat if the kids (or adults!) hit a wall.

Here are three hotels worth considering:

Disneyland Hotel Paris (5★)

The most luxurious option at Disneyland Paris, this beautifully reimagined hotel reopened in January 2024 following a major renovation. Located right at the entrance to Disneyland Park, it offers the ultimate convenience for families who want to minimize walking and maximize their time in the park. The interiors are inspired by Disney’s royal stories, with elegant rooms, character experiences, and upscale dining.

Check rates on Booking.com or Expedia.

Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel (4★)

A stylish, contemporary alternative with a Marvel superhero theme. I particularly like this option for families with slightly older children, especially those who have outgrown the princess phase! The hotel features Marvel artwork, themed experiences, and comfortable rooms, all within walking distance of the parks.

Check rates on Booking.com or Expedia.

Hôtel l’Elysée Val d’Europe (4★)

If you’re looking for something more economical without sacrificing comfort, this is a great option to consider. In fact, Hôtel l’Elysée Val d’Europe receives some of the best guest reviews of the hotels near Disneyland Paris, making it particularly appealing for families looking for excellent value. Located in Val d’Europe, close to shopping and restaurants, the hotel offers comfortable, family-friendly rooms and a complimentary shuttle to the Disney parks. It’s a great choice if you’d prefer to spend a little less on your hotel and a little more on the Disney experience itself!

Check rates on Booking.com or Expedia.

Paris Attractions for Kids Map

I created this very simple map of fun things to do in Paris for kids, to help give you an idea of where the major attractions are located. Feel free to click here or on the image for the interactive version.

Saving Money in Paris

While we can help you answer the question of what to do with kids in Paris, we can’t do anything about the fact that the city is expensive. However, we do have tips to help you save during your days out in Paris.

• Free Museum Days: Many Paris museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month, and children under 18 often enter for free year-round. Plan visits accordingly to save on entry fees.

• Discounted Attraction Pass: In the past, I have recommended the Paris Pass by Go City. To be honest, I no longer think it makes much sense, since most museums and tourist attractions now require (or allow) timed reservations. Additionally, children under 18 are admitted free to museums. That said, if you’re very ambitious and plan to see a large number of attractions in a short period of time, it could still be worth it for you.

• Use Pubic Transit: Invest in a Navigo Easy card or Carnet of tickets for affordable travel on buses, trams, and the Metro. Kids under 4 ride for free, and discounted rates are available for older children.

• Picnic Like a Local: Instead of eating out for every meal, shop at local markets like Marché Bastille or Rue Cler for fresh bread, cheese, and fruit to create budget-friendly picnics in beautiful parks like the Jardin des Tuileries or Champ de Mars.

• Visit Free Attractions: Landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior), Sacre-Coeur, and Paris’s many parks and gardens are free to explore and perfect for families.

• Enjoy Free Entertainment: Watch street performers in areas like Place du Tertre or around the Pompidou Center, and enjoy the lively atmosphere without spending a dime.

Getting Around Paris

The Paris Metro is an efficient and affordable way to get around what can feel like a labyrinth of a city, especially once you get the hang of it. When booking accommodations, it’s always worth checking how far the nearest Metro station actually is on foot.

Taxis in Paris are typically picked up at official taxi stands (ranks), marked by blue signs with white “TAXI” lettering. You’ll find these at major intersections, train stations, and near popular attractions. One issue we’ve consistently run into as a family of four is that many taxis prefer to take only three passengers, even though they are technically licensed for four.

If you’re traveling as a family of four or more, or if you need a car seat, I strongly recommend using the G7 Taxi app. It works much like a ride-hailing app such as Uber, but it allows you to select a vehicle with a car seat. There is a small surcharge over regular cabs (currently €4 for an immediate pickup and €7 for advance booking), but in our experience it’s worth it for the added predictability.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt can also be useful at times, but there’s one important drawback: they are not allowed to use Paris’s dedicated bus and taxi lanes. During busy periods, this can significantly slow your journey. Using the G7 app gives you the convenience of ordering and paying through an app, while still allowing access to taxi lanes.

Note: Some U.S. travelers have reported occasional credit card issues with the G7 system. It’s a good idea to have a backup card on file, or some cash, just in case.

From the Airport

When arriving from the airports, taxis operate on a fixed-fare system into central Paris. In most cases, the easiest option is to head straight to the official airport taxi stands. Ignore anyone approaching you inside the terminal offering a ride. Instead, follow the clearly marked signs for the official taxi stand.

You can also order a G7 taxi to the airport, but the pickup point will be different from the official taxi queue. See G7 pickup points at CDG.

Note: While walking around Paris with kids is genuinely enjoyable, distances can be deceiving. For example, even though the Tuileries Garden sits right beside the Louvre, it’s still about a 1.2 km (0.75-mile) walk from the museum to the kids’ trampolines at the far end of the park. Building in the occasional Metro or taxi ride can save both time and energy.

Where to Stay in Paris with Kids

Finding the perfect family hotel in Paris can be surprisingly tricky! Hotel rooms tend to be small, and finding one that comfortably accommodates four or more people isn’t always easy. Throw in connecting rooms, bed configurations, and the occasional tiny elevator, and there’s quite a bit to consider.

When travelling to Paris with kids, I particularly like staying in the 1st arrondissement (near the Louvre), Le Marais (3rd and 4th), or Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th). All three are lovely neighbourhoods with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and family-friendly attractions within walking distance.

I’ve put together a detailed guide to the 20 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Paris, with recommendations for different budgets, family rooms and suites, and accommodations for families of four, five, or six.

Want to browse on your own? You can also search Paris hotels on Booking.com or Expedia. I recommend filtering for the neighbourhoods mentioned above, entering the exact number and ages of your children, and looking for properties with guest ratings of 9/10 or higher. Just be sure to double-check the bed configuration before booking.

Is Paris Safe to Visit?

Paris is generally a safe city for families, but as with any major tourist destination, there are a few things worth being aware of before your visit.

Protests and Demonstrations in Paris

Let’s face it, protests are practically a Parisian tradition! But the temperature has certainly been turned up lately, particularly following the demonstrations on October 17, 2026, when some areas of Paris experienced significant violence, looting, and property damage. Understandably, you may have some concerns about safety when planning your visit.

On my most recent trip in early October 2026, I actually stumbled upon a student protest (not one of the major demonstrations, but a smaller one the week before). At the time, the atmosphere was cheerful and peaceful, but I quickly ducked down a side street rather than stick around to see how things unfolded.

The good news is that major demonstrations in Paris are often announced in advance, and their planned routes are usually available online. You can generally find information through a quick Google search or by checking local news and public transportation websites, including RATP and Bonjour RATP.

What I would be particularly mindful of is transportation. On major protest days, Métro stations can close, roads may be blocked, and taxis and private transfers can have difficulty getting around the city.

Some friends of mine arrived at Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport on the morning of the October 17 protests, only to discover that their prearranged car transfer had been cancelled. They ended up taking the Metro into the city alongside a large group of masked protesters. Thankfully, everything was peaceful, but it certainly wasn’t ideal. While it was a somewhat unsettling start to their day, their pre-booked afternoon tour still went ahead. Their guide simply made a few adjustments on the fly to avoid the protest areas.

My Tip: If a major protest is scheduled on a day you’re arriving in Paris, heading to the airport, or catching a train elsewhere in France, consider adjusting your travel date if you have the flexibility. If you’re already in Paris, check the planned protest route and avoid that area entirely, including nearby Métro stations, which may be closed. Keep in mind that spontaneous gatherings can also occur outside the planned route. You can often enjoy other parts of the city without too much disruption.

As a friend of mine who worked in global security once told me, just before I headed off to Quito, Ecuador, with my family during a contentious presidential election: “It’s simple, Tara. If you see a crowd forming, immediately go the other way!”

Pickpockets and Phone Theft

Phone theft and pickpocketing are also concerns in Paris, particularly around busy Métro stations and major tourist attractions. Parents can be particularly vulnerable to distraction because, of course, your first priority is always going to be your kids, not your handbag or phone!

My advice? Leave your passport and unnecessary valuables securely at your accommodation, carry only what you need for the day, and avoid keeping anything valuable in an outside pocket. Keep your bag zipped and in front of you in crowded areas, with your wallet and other valuables tucked deep inside rather than sitting right at the top where they’re easy to grab.

Be especially careful with your phone, too. Avoid leaving it on café tables or holding it loosely in your hand in crowded areas. You might even want to consider one of those phone straps or crossbody lanyards that attach to your iPhone. They’re not foolproof, but they can provide an extra layer of security, particularly when you’re juggling kids, bags, and Google Maps!

You don’t need to be paranoid. Just don’t make yourself an easy mark!

Beware of Fake Ticket Websites

One other thing to watch out for when planning your Paris trip is fake or misleading attraction ticket websites. Some look remarkably official, particularly when they appear at the top of Google search results, but may charge inflated prices, sell unnecessary extras, or, in some cases, sell tickets that aren’t valid at all.

For major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay, I recommend booking directly through the attraction’s official website whenever possible. If you prefer to use a third-party booking platform, stick with a reputable company such as Viator, Get Your Guide or Context Travel and check exactly what’s included before paying.

And don’t assume that the first result on Google is the official website. Always double-check the URL before entering your credit card details.

None of these concerns would stop me from visiting Paris with my family, but a little advance planning (and a healthy dose of common sense) can go a long way!

Final Thoughts

Do you have specific questions about things to do in Paris for kids? Please feel free to reach out to me via direct message on Instagram, Facebook or by email.

Want to see more unique adventures? I would love for you to follow along with The Better Beyond on Instagram!

Further Reading

• The Best Paris Family Hotels
• Paris 5 Day Family Itinerary (We3Travel)
• Michelin Star Dining with Kids in Paris
• Private Family Friendly Louvre Tour Paris
• A Guide to Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, Paris
• A Guide to Menton, France
• A Guide to Seville, Spain
• San Sebastian, Spain with Kids
• Les Grand Buffets, Narbonne
• A Guide to Mo’orea Island, French Polynesia
• Family Hotels NYC – 12 Perfect Picks