Paris with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Paris is often known as the city of love and romance, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families with kids. The city offers a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions that are sure to keep everyone entertained and engaged. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best family-friendly activities and attractions in Paris, as well as provide tips on how to explore the city with kids.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Paris

If you’re looking for some fun-filled activities to do with your kids in Paris, here are some top options that are sure to be a hit:

Disneyland Paris

Located just outside the city, Disneyland Paris is a magical place where kids can meet their favorite Disney characters, enjoy thrilling rides, and watch spectacular parades and shows. With five themed lands to explore, there’s something for everyone at Disneyland Paris.

Parc Asterix

Parc Asterix is another popular theme park that offers a variety of rides and attractions based on the famous French comic book character, Asterix. With over 40 attractions to choose from, Parc Asterix is a great place to spend a day with the family.

Jardin d'Acclimatation

Jardin d’Acclimatation is a beautiful park located in the Bois de Boulogne, which offers a range of family-friendly activities such as mini-golf, a petting zoo, and a puppet theater. The park also has several playgrounds, a rollercoaster, and a miniature train ride.

Cité des Enfants

Cité des Enfants is an interactive science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and workshops designed for children aged 2-12. The museum has two sections: one for children aged 2-7 and another for children aged 5-12, making it an ideal destination for families with kids of different ages.

La Villette Science Museum

The La Villette Science Museum is another great museum for kids, with interactive exhibits that explore topics such as the human body, the universe, and technology. The museum also has a planetarium and an IMAX cinema, making it a great destination for a day out with the family.

Paris Aquarium

The Paris Aquarium is a fascinating destination that offers a chance to explore the underwater world. The aquarium has over 10,000 fish and marine creatures, as well as several interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn about marine life.

Paris Zoological Park

The Paris Zoological Park is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, and lions. The park has several themed areas, such as the African Savannah and the Patagonian Desert, as well as a playground and a petting zoo.

Kid-Friendly Attractions in Paris

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Paris, and it’s a must-visit destination for families with kids. Children will be fascinated by the towering structure and the breathtaking views from the top. For a fun experience, take the stairs up to the second floor, and then take the elevator to the top.

Louvre Museum

While it may not seem like an obvious destination for kids, the Louvre Museum is actually a great place to explore with the family. Children will love seeing famous works of art such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, as well as the museum’s extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts. To make the visit more engaging for kids, consider booking a family-friendly tour or download a kid-friendly audio guide.

Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens is a beautiful park located in the heart of Paris, which offers a range of activities for kids such as pony rides, puppet shows, and a playground. Children can also enjoy sailing model boats on the central pond. Parents can relax on the lawn while the kids enjoy the park’s many activities.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Notre-Dame Cathedral is an iconic Parisian landmark that is currently undergoing renovation work following a devastating fire. Although the cathedral may not be open to the public, it’s still worth a visit for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Kids will love seeing the gargoyles and other intricate details on the facade.

Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle is a stunning medieval chapel that is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows. Kids will be captivated by the colorful windows, which depict scenes from the Bible and other stories. The chapel also hosts occasional classical music concerts, which can make for a memorable family outing.

Montmartre

Montmartre is a charming neighborhood that is known for its bohemian vibe and artistic heritage. Kids will love exploring the narrow streets and seeing the artists at work in the famous Place du Tertre. The neighborhood also has several family-friendly cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to stop for a meal or a snack.

Seine River Cruise

A cruise along the Seine River can be a great way to see the city’s landmarks from a different perspective. Kids will love the chance to sail under the bridges and see the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and other famous sites from the water. Some cruises even offer live entertainment and kid-friendly activities.

Tips for Exploring Paris with Kids

Plan ahead

Before you travel to Paris, do some research on the attractions and activities that you want to see and plan your itinerary accordingly. Make sure to include plenty of kid-friendly options and leave some time for relaxation and spontaneous exploration. It’s also a good idea to book tickets and tours in advance to avoid long lines and wait times.

Take breaks

Exploring Paris can be tiring, especially for kids. Make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day, whether it’s stopping for a snack or taking a rest in a park or playground. This will help keep everyone energized and in good spirits.

Consider transportation options

Paris has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trains. While it can be a bit overwhelming at first, it’s a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. However, if you’re traveling with younger children, consider taking taxis or using ride-sharing services to avoid long walks and crowded public transportation.

Choose family-friendly accommodations

When choosing accommodations in Paris, look for family-friendly options that offer amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and child-friendly menus. Staying in an apartment or vacation rental can also be a great option, as it allows you to cook your own meals and have more space to relax.

Find kid-friendly food options

French cuisine is famous around the world, but it can be challenging to find kid-friendly options in Paris. Look for restaurants that offer children’s menus or have a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. French bakeries and pastry shops are also a great option for a quick and delicious snack.

Embrace the culture

One of the best parts of traveling with kids is exposing them to new cultures and experiences. Encourage your children to try new foods, learn some basic French phrases, and explore the city’s history and art. Paris has plenty of child-friendly museums and activities that are both educational and fun.

In conclusion, Paris is a great destination for families with kids. With its many attractions, beautiful parks, and rich culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By following these tips and planning ahead, you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories with your family.