What are the Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids? Unveil Now!
Paris, the City of Love, is not just for couples or solo travelers. It is also an ideal destination for families with kids. With its diverse offerings of family-friendly activities, attractions for children, and kid-friendly places, Paris guarantees a memorable vacation for both kids and adults.
So, what are the best things to do in Paris with kids? There are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from fun activities for kids in Paris to educational museums, from iconic landmarks to sweet indulgences. Whether you’re planning a short break or an extended stay, you’ll find something to suit all ages and interests.
Paris has many attractions specifically designed for children. From theme parks to science museums, your kids will have plenty of opportunities to learn and play. If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Paris, you won’t be disappointed. Explore the city’s landmarks, parks, and gardens, or indulge in French sweets in renowned chocolateries and patisseries.
Get ready to create unforgettable memories with your kids as you explore the best things to do in Paris with kids. Let’s embark on this adventure together!
Exploring Iconic Landmarks: Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum
Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and two of the must-visit places with children are the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.
The Eiffel Tower is a towering architectural wonder that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The iron lattice tower stands at 324 meters and was built in 1889 for the World Exposition. Your children will be thrilled to ride the elevator to the top and take memorable family photos. The stunning view from the top will be a highlight of your trip to Paris.
The Louvre Museum is another iconic landmark that you shouldn’t miss. As the world’s largest art museum, it is home to world-famous artworks including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Don’t worry about your children getting bored as the Louvre Museum offers different exhibits tailored to kids. For example, the Egyptian collection will leave your kids amazed with its mummies and artifacts. This beautiful museum has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Eiffel Tower vs Louvre Museum: A Comparison
| Eiffel Tower | Louvre Museum | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France | Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France |
| Highlights | 360-degree panoramic view of Paris, glass floor, elevator ride to the top | Mona Lisa, Egyptian antiquities, Italian Renaissance art |
| Family-friendly activities | Activities for children like scavenger hunt, interactive experience on the 1st floor and fun facts about the tower | Kids’ audio guide, treasure hunt, family trail map, exhibits on Ancient Egypt, costumes, and art workshops |
| Opening hours | 9:00 AM – 12:45 AM | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays) |
| Admission fee | €10 – €26/person (varies by age and access level) | €0 – €17/person (varies by age, access level, and exhibition) |
Both the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum offer family-friendly activities and exhibits that cater to visitors of all ages. However, they differ significantly in terms of their highlights, location, and admission fees. Decide which landmark you want to visit first and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Immerse in Magic: Disneyland Paris
If you’re looking for a magical experience to share with your family, look no further than Disneyland Paris. With its numerous attractions and entertainment options, it guarantees an unforgettable day for the entire family.
The park is divided into five themed lands: Fantasyland, Adventureland, Discoveryland, Frontierland, and Main Street, USA. Each land offers a unique atmosphere and a variety of rides and attractions that cater to all ages. Whether it’s exploring the Star Wars universe in Discoveryland, meeting beloved Disney characters in Fantasyland, or experiencing Wild West adventures in Frontierland, there’s something for everyone.
One of the must-do activities is the Disney Illuminations Show, a spectacular nighttime show that features dazzling fireworks, projection mapping, and beloved Disney characters.
Practical Information
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallee, around 20 miles (32 km) east of Paris. The park is easily accessible via public transportation, with multiple trains and buses connecting it to the city center.
The park is open every day of the year, with varying hours depending on the season. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
| Type of Ticket | Price (as of 2021) |
|---|---|
| 1-Day/1-Park Ticket | $106 |
| 1-Day/2-Park Ticket | $155 |
| Multi-Day Tickets | Starting from $202 for 2 days/2 parks |
There are also various dining options available within the park, ranging from quick snacks to sit-down restaurants. Make sure to try some of the famous Disney treats, such as Mickey-shaped waffles and popcorn.
Overall, Disneyland Paris is a must-visit attraction for families looking for fun activities during their Paris vacation.
Discovering the Wonders of Science: Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
If your kids love science and technology, then the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is a must-visit attraction in Paris. This science museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for children of all ages, making it a fun and educational destination for the whole family.
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is located in Parc de la Villette, which is a spacious park with plenty of green areas and playgrounds. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for families.
Exhibits and Activities
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie has a wide range of exhibits and activities to offer. Here are some of the highlights:
| Exhibit/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| The Great Story of the Universe | An immersive exhibition that explores the history and evolution of the universe, from the Big Bang to the present day. |
| The Cité des Enfants | A special area for children aged 2-12, featuring interactive exhibits and workshops on various topics such as the human body, water, and communication. |
| The Explora Exhibition | A hands-on exhibition that allows visitors to explore science and technology through experiments and interactive games. |
| The Planetarium | A 360-degree dome that shows films on astronomy and space exploration. |
These exhibits and activities are designed to engage children and encourage them to learn about science in a fun and interactive way. They provide a hands-on learning experience that allows kids to explore and discover at their own pace.
Practical Information
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is open every day except Mondays, from 10am to 6pm. Admission fees vary depending on the exhibits and activities you want to see and participate in. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
Overall, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is a great place to visit with kids in Paris. It combines fun and education in a unique and engaging way, providing a memorable experience for the whole family.
Exploring the Natural World: Jardin d’Acclimatation and Parc de la Villette
If you’re looking for fun activities for kids in Paris, be sure to visit two of the city’s most beloved parks: Jardin d’Acclimatation and Parc de la Villette.
Jardin d’Acclimatation has been a favorite among families for over 150 years. This spacious park provides a wide variety of activities, including rides, animal encounters, and playgrounds. Your children will love the pony rides and the petting zoo, and the little ones can enjoy the mini cars and boats. Meanwhile, the whole family can enjoy the park’s stunning gardens, as well as its two lakes.
Parc de la Villette is another wonderful green space in Paris with fun attractions for children. The park is divided into different themed areas, including a science playground, a giant net, and a musical fountain. There are also several interactive installations that your kids will love. For example, they can explore the inside of a dragon’s mouth or climb inside a spiderweb.
Both Jardin d’Acclimatation and Parc de la Villette offer fun and exciting attractions for children in Paris. These parks are perfect for a relaxing day out with the family, enjoying the fresh air and the natural beauty of Paris.
Unleashing Creativity: Le Musée en Herbe and Atelier des Lumières
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Paris that also capture the city’s artistic side, Le Musée en Herbe and Atelier des Lumières should be on your list of kid-friendly places to visit. Both attractions provide unique and immersive experiences that unleash creativity and art appreciation in your children.
Le Musée en Herbe
Le Musée en Herbe is a museum specifically designed for kids, offering interactive exhibitions and workshops that encourage artistic expression in a playful setting. Your children will enjoy learning about famous artists and their work while engaging in hands-on activities like drawing, painting, and sculpture.
The museum aims to foster creativity and curiosity, making it an ideal attraction for children of all ages. Some of the featured artists include Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Keith Haring, among others.
Le Musée en Herbe prides itself on its ability to make art accessible and engaging for kids, creating a fun and welcoming environment where they can learn and explore at their own pace.
Atelier des Lumières
If you’re looking for a unique art experience that combines storytelling, digital animation, and soundscapes, Atelier des Lumières is the place to be. This digital art center offers immersive exhibitions that showcase some of the world’s most renowned artists and their works.
As you walk through the exhibit spaces, you’ll be surrounded by moving images and sounds, transporting you into the world of the artists and their creations. Some of the artists featured in previous exhibitions include Van Gogh, Monet, and Klimt, among others.
Atelier des Lumières appeals to all ages, making it a fun and enriching activity for the whole family. The center also offers workshops and educational activities that allow children to learn more about the artistic process and techniques used by the featured artists.
“Le Musée en Herbe and Atelier des Lumières are two of the most exciting and unique cultural experiences for kids in Paris. Your children will enjoy learning about art in a fun and engaging way, making new discoveries with every visit.”
Enjoying Outdoor Activities: Boat Tours and Parks
When you’re in Paris with your family, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to explore the beauty of the city from a unique perspective. A boat tour along the Seine River is a perfect way to do that. You’ll get to see the stunning architecture of the city’s iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre Museum, and the Eiffel Tower while cruising along the tranquil waters. These boat tours in Paris are suitable for people of all ages and offer a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Some of the best parks in Paris offer a variety of family-friendly activities and are perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Take a leisurely stroll in Luxembourg Gardens or Tuileries Garden, have a picnic on the green lawns, or engage in outdoor games with your little ones. Both parks are centrally located, making them easily accessible. Besides, these parks in Paris are perfect spots for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. They are great for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air.
Discovering Historical Treasures: Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle
When planning a family vacation to Paris, visiting iconic historical landmarks is a must. Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle are two of the top things to do in Paris for families, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.
Notre-Dame Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece that has stood for over 800 years. Marvel at the intricate stonework and stained glass windows, and climb the towers for panoramic views of the city. Although the cathedral suffered damage in a fire in 2019, it is currently undergoing restoration and is still a must-visit place in Paris with children.
Sainte-Chapelle, located nearby, is a stunning 13th-century chapel renowned for its intricate stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes. The chapel was once used to house holy relics, and its grandeur is a testament to the power and wealth of medieval French royalty.
| Notre-Dame Cathedral | Sainte-Chapelle |
|---|---|
| Located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris | Located near Notre-Dame Cathedral on the Île de la Cité |
| Free entry | Adult admission: €11.50, free for children under 18 |
| Visitors can climb the towers for panoramic views of the city | Famous for its stunning stained glass windows |
Visiting historical landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle is a great way to introduce children to the wonders of history and architecture. These must-visit places in Paris with children offer a unique educational experience and a chance to immerse yourselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Indulging in Sweet Delights: Chocolateries and Patisseries
What’s a trip to Paris without indulging in some delicious French sweets? Luckily, the city is home to some of the best chocolateries and patisseries in the world, making it the perfect destination for foodies of all ages.
| Chocolateries | Patisseries |
|---|---|
| La Maison du Chocolat | Ladurée |
| Pierre Marcolini | Pain de Sucre |
| Chocolaterie Jacques Genin | Angelina |
Whether you prefer rich chocolate truffles, flaky croissants, or colorful macarons, there’s something for everyone in Paris’s vibrant food scene.
Take a stroll through the charming streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and discover hidden gems like Pierre Hermé, renowned for its innovative macaron flavors. Or head to the iconic Ladurée, which has been serving up delicate pastries since 1862.
Don’t forget to visit La Maison du Chocolat, a chocolate-lover’s paradise with an impressive selection of artisanal chocolates crafted from the finest cocoa beans. For a unique experience, join a chocolate-making workshop and learn the secrets of the trade.
Indulging in French sweets is one of the most family-friendly activities in Paris. Share a box of macarons with your kids or savor a decadent hot chocolate at Angelina’s while enjoying the elegant Belle Epoque decor.
With its mouth-watering treats and magical atmosphere, Paris is truly a foodie’s paradise.
Conclusion
Now that you know the best things to do in Paris with kids, it’s time to start planning your family vacation. With so many family-friendly activities, attractions, and places to explore, Paris is the perfect destination for all ages. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum to magical experiences at Disneyland Paris, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget to immerse yourselves in the wonders of science at Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie or explore the natural world at Jardin d’Acclimatation and Parc de la Villette. For a creative twist, visit Le Musée en Herbe or Atelier des Lumières and unleash your artistic side, or enjoy outdoor activities like boat tours and park picnics.
And of course, indulge in sweet treats at renowned chocolateries and patisseries throughout the city. Finish off your trip by exploring historical treasures like Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.
Create unforgettable memories with your children as you explore the City of Love together. Paris is a destination that offers something for every member of your family, making it the perfect place to enjoy quality time together.
