Things to do in Paris with kids
Traveling with the family? Experience the best family-friendly attractions with our guide to top things to do in Paris with kids.
Paris might be known as the city of romance, but it’s also a great destination for a break with your family. Whether you’re looking forward to enjoying a new perspective on historic attractions or heading off the beaten track to create special memories with your kids, there’s no better place to start than with this guide from the team at the Paris Pass.
Head for heights
Believe it or not, there are a number of iconic landmarks where visitors can gaze out across the Paris cityscape. Perhaps the most iconic Parisian monument, the Arc de Triomphe offers a fascinating look at France's social past as well as sweeping views down the Champs Elysée and across the city.
If you're on the lookout for panoramic views, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better viewpoint than the Montparnasse Observation Deck, Paris' only skyscraper, you can see up to 40km away from their 56th-floor observation level on a clear day!
Who hasn’t heard of the Eiffel Tower? Included in any “Things to do in Paris with kids” wish list, this iconic landmark offers wonderful views of the city.
Once you’re back on terra firma, cross the Seine on Pont d'Iéna to stroll along l’Esplanade du Trocadéro. Skaters and skateboarders zip along the paths beside the fountains and pristine gardens and, at the far end, Place du Trocadéro is a great place for family selfies with views of the Eiffel Tower.
Head for the water
Cruising the Seine is a great way to give little feet a rest while taking in glorious views of Paris’ historical landmarks and beautiful bridges. From the Eiffel Tower, why not hop on a scenic river boat tour back towards Notre Dame? You’ll go past Musée d’Orsay, Saint Germain des Prés, Notre Dame and could disembark at Jardin des Plantes.
Jardin des Plantes
On sunny days, these botanic gardens by the banks of the Seine are perfect for giving your little ones a chance to stretch their legs among beautiful, flower-filled scented gardens. La Ménagerie is the Jardin des Plantes’ small zoo and the second oldest zoological garden in the world. Here, you can see animals including orangutans, red pandas, tamarin monkeys, wild boar, pink flamingos, snakes and turtles.
If you need to stop for a snack, there are several cafés or kiosks to choose from inside the gardens, including one next to the incredible Galerie de l’Evolution (part of the Natural History Museum). This spectacular exhibition hall displays a caravan of animal exhibits crossing the main gallery, impressive dinosaur skeletons and many other smaller exhibits. Next door, the Galerie des Enfants runs seasonal interactive exhibitions designed to inspire young minds. The exhibition halls of this museum are perfect family entertainment, especially on wet afternoons.
Paris Aquarium Cineaqua
One of Paris' best-loved family-friendly attractions, the famous Paris Aquarium boasts the largest aquarium tank in France! Home to over 500 species, discover an exciting underwater world at Europe's finest aquarium. From sharks and sea-turtles to clown fish, sea urchins and more, the Paris Aquarium features a fantastic schedule of shows, live feedings, environmental talks, interactive activities and more. A can't-miss for the whole family!
Sacré Coeur and Montmartre
The grand Byzantine domes of Sacré Coeur are another photogenic Parisian sight, but the cobbled streets of Montmartre can be hard work, especially if you are pushing a buggy or stroller. Take the opportunity to hop on the Petit Train de Montmartre, the little tourist train that tours Montmartre’s picturesque winding lanes. Seeing the sights from the comfort of your own carriage is a fun way to get around and you can listen to an audio commentary too, if you like.
Parc de la Villette
From Sacré Coeur, you are just a short hop from Parc de la Villette. This wonderful open space, all the way out in the 19th arrondissement, offers many family-friendly activities and is usually a lot quieter than other Paris landmarks.
On sunny days, its expansive grassy lawns, interesting sculptures and themed gardens are the perfect spot for a picnic or a run-around. Don’t miss the giant slide in Jardin du Dragon or the fab playground at Jardin des Vents et des Dunes.
On the edge of the park, Europe’s largest science museum, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, is full of fun, interactive activities for kids of all ages to enjoy. There are lots of science themes to explore, including a planetarium, and special areas for children and teenagers. Outside, the silvery sphere of La Géode contains a huge IMAX theatre.
Disneyland® Paris
The ultimate family day trip from the French capital has to be Disneyland. Twenty miles outside Paris, the Disney park is easy to reach using the French RER train network. Expect rides, shows and thrills to keep the whole family amused, as well as meet-and-greets with Disney characters. Use Disney’s fast pass scheme to make the most of your time in the park, especially if you’re planning to ride popular attractions like Big Thunder Mountain or Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain. And factor in lots of rest breaks if you want to to last until the parade and firework show – an unmissable treat.