Paris with Kids

Paris, the City of Light, is not just for romantic getaways and art enthusiasts. It is also a vibrant and exciting destination for families with kids. With an abundance of parks, museums, zoos, and kid-friendly attractions, Paris offers endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your family trip to Paris, including where to go, what to see, where to stay, and more.

Best Time to Visit Paris with Kids

The best time to visit Paris with kids is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the city is not as crowded as it is during the peak summer months. Winter, especially around Christmas, also has its charm with festive decorations and markets.

Where to Stay with Kids

When choosing accommodation in Paris with kids, consider staying in family-friendly neighborhoods like the Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or near the Eiffel Tower. These areas offer easy access to major attractions and plenty of dining options.

Recommended Family Hotels:

• Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel: Located near the Eiffel Tower, this hotel offers spacious family rooms, an indoor pool, and a play area.
• Le Bristol Paris: A luxury option with a beautiful garden, a kids’ club, and a pool.
• Hôtel de la Porte Dorée: A charming and affordable hotel with family rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

Kid-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

Paris is home to many cafes and restaurants that cater to families with kids. Here are some top picks:

• Angelina: Famous for its hot chocolate and pastries, this café also offers a kid-friendly menu.
• Le Café de la Paix: Located near the Opera, this historic café has a special menu for kids.
• Le Grand Colbert: A traditional French brasserie with a welcoming atmosphere for families.
• Chez He: A Chinese restaurant with an indoor playground to keep the little ones entertained.

Top Attractions for Kids

• Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Take the elevator to the second floor for stunning views of the city, or go all the way to the top for an unforgettable experience. The tower lights up every evening, creating a magical spectacle for the whole family.
• Parc de La Villette: This large park is a paradise for kids, featuring the Dragon Garden with a huge slide, play areas, and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, a hands-on science museum perfect for curious minds.
• Jardin des Tuileries: Located near the Louvre, this historic garden offers playgrounds, a carousel, and plenty of space for a picnic.
• Parc André-Citroën: Home to the Ballon de Paris Generali, a tethered hot air balloon ride that offers breathtaking views of the city from 150 meters up. The park also features expansive lawns and water features.
• Disneyland Paris: Just a short train ride from the city center, Disneyland Paris is a must-visit for families. With attractions for all ages, parades, and character meet-and-greets, it’s a magical day out for everyone.
• Paris Aquarium: Dive into the depths of the ocean at the Paris Aquarium, which offers interactive exhibits, a shark tank, and virtual reality experiences.
• Centre Pompidou: This modern art museum includes the Galeries des Enfants, a space dedicated to kids with interactive exhibits and workshops.
• Parc Astérix: A theme park inspired by the famous French comic book characters Asterix and Obelix. The park features over 40 attractions, including roller coasters and live shows.
• Chocolate Museum (Choco-Story): An interactive museum where kids can learn about the history of chocolate and enjoy tastings at the end of the tour.
• Paradox Museum: A fun and interactive museum filled with optical illusions and puzzles that will captivate both kids and adults.

Parks and Gardens

• Luxembourg Gardens: One of the most beautiful parks in Paris, the Luxembourg Gardens offers playgrounds, puppet shows, and pony rides. It’s a great place for a family picnic.
• Parc de Belleville: This park offers a large climbing wall and stunning views of the city. It’s a great place for kids to burn off some energy.
• Parc Rives de Seine: A riverside park with plenty of activities for kids, including a maze, climbing walls, and a football pitch.

Zoos and Animal Attractions

• Jardin des Plantes: Home to the Ménagerie, one of the oldest zoos in the world, as well as beautiful gardens and a natural history museum.
• Parc Zoologique de Paris: Located in the Bois de Vincennes, this zoo features over 2,000 animals and extensive educational programs for kids.

3-Day Itinerary for Families

Day 1: Classic Paris

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Book tickets in advance to skip the lines.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic at the Champ de Mars and let the kids play in the park.
• Evening: Take a Seine River cruise to see the city from a unique perspective.

Day 2: Fun and Adventure

• Morning: Head to Parc de La Villette. Explore the Dragon Garden and visit the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie.
• Afternoon: Visit the Paris Aquarium and dive into marine life exhibits.
• Evening: Have dinner at Chez He, where kids can enjoy the indoor playground.

Day 3: Magical Memories

• Morning: Take a trip to Disneyland Paris. Spend the day enjoying rides and attractions.
• Evening: Return to the city and enjoy a family meal at Le Grand Colbert.

Tips for Tourists

• Popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris can get crowded. Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
• Paris has an extensive and efficient public transport system. Consider getting a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and the metro.
• While Paris is full of wonderful cafes and restaurants, having snacks on hand can be helpful, especially when traveling with young kids.
• Sightseeing can be tiring, so plan regular breaks in parks or cafes.
• Apps like Google Maps and RATP can help you navigate the city and public transport.
• Always carry water, especially in the summer months.
• A few basic French phrases can go a long way and make your trip more enjoyable.