Are you planning a Paris family vacation? Keep scrolling for a list of the best tips for visiting Paris with kids to ensure a smooth trip!
This list of the best travel tips for visiting Paris with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
We’ve visited Paris with kids several times and they are always asking when we can go back.
They have so much fun on each Paris family trip and we never run out of interesting things to do, places to see, or foods to try.
So, I figured I’d pull together some of the most helpful tips for Paris with kids so that you can plan your ultimate Paris family vacation!
Keep scrolling to get the best tips for your Paris vacation with kids!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Paris blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Paris with kids.
Popular Paris Tours/Activities
- Scavenger Hunt at the Musee d’Orsay (my kids voted this the BEST thing they did in Paris)
- Paris Food Tour (We ate SO many yummy treats on our Food Tour)
- Tootbus (this is a kid-friendly hop-on-hop-off bus)
- Eiffel Tower (skip the line and go straight to the top)
- Day Trip to Giverny and Versailles (it’s a great city break)
- Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book and really affordable)
Kid-Friendly Paris Hotels
- Hotel Aiglon (this is a quiet area near Luxembourg Garden, and it’s perfect for families)
- Pullman Paris Eiffel Tower Hotel (there’s a shuttle to Disneyland or Giverny from here)
- Newport Bay Club Resort (this is our favorite place to stay at Disneyland)
Before You Go to Paris with Kids
Planning is key to a successful and stress-free family vacation in Paris. Before heading to the City of Lights with your little ones, here are some vital things to consider:
First, research family-friendly attractions in Paris. Museums such as the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie and parks like Jardin d’Acclimatation are sure to be a hit.
Create an itinerary that caters to your kids’ interests while still allowing for the flexibility necessary when traveling to Paris with children.
Next, be aware of age restrictions and special requirements for certain attractions. Many museums and historic sites have guidelines on their websites, so a quick check can prevent any disappointment on the day of your visit.
Don’t forget to sort out all the necessary travel documents. This includes ensuring that passports are up-to-date and acquiring any necessary visas.
It’s also wise to secure travel insurance to cover any unexpected incidents or medical issues during your trip.
Finally, make a packing list of essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. This is one of my top travel tips for Paris for families.
Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any necessary items for your children like strollers, diapers, snacks, and a favorite toy or book.
Getting Around Paris with Kids
Navigating a new city with children can seem daunting, but Paris offers several convenient and family-friendly transportation options to make your exploration smoother.
Paris’ comprehensive metro and bus system can take you to nearly all of the city’s top attractions. Stations and stops are well-marked, and digital displays provide real-time updates.
However, remember that older Paris metro stations may not be stroller-friendly due to a lack of elevators or escalators, so plan for potential stair climbing.
When using public transportation with kids, aim to travel during off-peak times when it’s less crowded. Keep a close eye on your little ones and ensure they understand the importance of staying near you at all times.
For families planning to use public transport extensively, consider investing in a travel pass like the Paris Visite travel card or a Navigo card. These offer unlimited travel within certain zones and can be a cost-effective option.
Finally, don’t forget that Paris is a walkable city, with many attractions located within close proximity of each other. Walking can often be a delightful way to discover the city’s charm.
For shorter distances, consider using the city’s bike-sharing services, which have stations scattered around Paris. It’s an eco-friendly way to get around, but remember to bring your own helmets for the kids!
Where to Stay in Paris with Kids
Finding the right accommodation can make all the difference when traveling with children. Paris offers a wide range of family-friendly options, and here are some factors to consider to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible.
First, consider the location. Accommodations in the 7th arrondissement or the Latin Quarter are popular with families due to their proximity to major attractions and public transportation.
Being close to sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Natural History Museum can save travel time and make it easier to return to your accommodation for rest breaks.
Second, evaluate the amenities offered by the accommodation. Family-friendly services such as babysitting, cribs, and children’s menus can enhance your stay. Also, look for accommodations with kitchen facilities if you prefer to prepare some meals yourself.
In addition, ensure the chosen accommodation meets safety standards and offers comfort for your children. This might include safety gates for stairs, childproofed rooms, and spaces for your kids to play.
Don’t forget to read reviews from other families. This can provide insight into how child-friendly an accommodation truly is.
Remember, the best place for your family to stay in Paris will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are my favorite places to stay in Paris with kids.
Eating in Paris with Kids
Experiencing local cuisine is a key part of any trip, and Paris provides ample opportunities for your family to discover French gastronomy while also catering to younger palates.
Parisian culture embraces family dining, so you’ll find a multitude of family-friendly restaurants and cafes throughout the city.
Some of our favorites include Chez Andre for classic French cuisine and Relais de l’Entrecote which serves all-you-can-eat steak and fries.
For families with picky eaters or special dietary needs, worry not. Many establishments offer kid-friendly versions of French classics and are willing to accommodate special requests. Don’t hesitate to ask about ingredients or request modifications to dishes if needed.
Use this trip as an opportunity for your kids to try traditional French cuisine. Croissants and pain au chocolat are usually a hit for breakfast, while crepes or jambon-beurre (ham and butter sandwich) make for a simple yet delicious lunch.
Also, seek out establishments that offer play areas or entertainment for children. Places like the kid-friendly Cafezoide, the first cafe in Paris designed specifically for children, can make mealtime an exciting and stress-free experience for everyone.
Managing Paris Crowds and Lines
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, and with that comes crowds and queues, especially at popular attractions.
One strategy to help kids manage is to visit top sights during off-peak times. This usually means early mornings or late afternoons. For example, the Louvre is typically less crowded on Wednesday and Friday evenings when it stays open late.
Consider purchasing skip-the-line or timed-entry tickets where available. These can save you hours of waiting, especially at places like the Eiffel Tower or the Musee d’Orsay. They cost a bit more but can be worth it for the time saved.
Remember to plan for breaks to avoid overwhelming your children. Paris’ many parks, such as Jardin du Luxembourg, provide perfect spots for relaxation and play between visits to busier sites.
Finally, prepare engaging activities for inevitable wait times. Small toys, activity books, or a game of ‘I Spy’ can turn a queue into an opportunity for fun.
Some attractions also offer interactive guides and scavenger hunts designed for children, which can make the waiting part of the adventure.
Must-Visit Paris Attractions for Families
Paris brims with attractions that can captivate visitors of all ages. And there are SO many things to do in Paris with kids.
Begin your adventure with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Notre-Dame de Paris is temporarily closed and is supposedly re-opening in December 2024.
The view from the Eiffel Tower is something your kids will remember, while the Louvre’s treasure hunt tours can make art exploration fun.
Don’t overlook Paris’ beautiful parks and gardens. The Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin des Tuileries offer expansive green spaces for outdoor activities and perfect picnic spots. They also feature charming old carousels, a hit among little ones.
Child-oriented museums, like the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie or the Natural History Museum, host interactive exhibits that provide both fun and educational experiences. Kids can learn about everything from dinosaurs to space exploration in a playful way.
Lastly, take a Seine River Cruise. Seeing Paris from the water can be thrilling for kids and adults alike. Some companies, like Bateaux Mouches, even offer special commentary and activity booklets for children.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
Paris Day Trip Options
If you’ll be visiting Paris for 5-7 days (or longer), you can easily do a day trip from Paris. One of our personal favorite Paris day trips is to Disneyland Paris.
It’s actually two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios. It’s similar to Disneyland California but they have a few unique attractions and experiences.
We also recommend visiting Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and painted. The grounds are gorgeous and it’s a great way to learn about this famous impressionist artist.
A lot of blogs will recommend visiting Versailles. Our kids really didn’t like it at all and we don’t blame them. I recommend showing your kids photos/videos to see if they are interested before booking tickets or a tour.
Entertainment and Cultural Experiences
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Paris offers a wealth of entertainment and cultural experiences that can spark the curiosity and creativity of your little ones.
Family-friendly theater shows and performances are plentiful in Paris. Companies like Théâtre de la Ville often have plays, puppet shows, and dance performances geared toward children.
Cinemas like Le Grand Rex also screen English-language films with French subtitles, offering an enjoyable learning experience.
Children’s workshops and creative activities abound in the city’s museums. The Louvre and Centre Pompidou, for instance, regularly organize art workshops for kids, where they can create their own masterpieces inspired by the exhibits.
Participating in cultural festivals and events can be another fun way to engage your kids. Fête de la Musique, a city-wide music festival, and the Chinese New Year parade are just a couple of the family-friendly events that take place throughout the year.
Use these opportunities to engage your kids in the rich history and art of Paris. Picture books, stories, and kid-friendly Paris tours for families can help them understand and appreciate the city’s heritage in an enjoyable way.
Safety and Security Considerations
Keeping your family safe and secure during your Parisian adventure is undoubtedly a top priority. Here are some key considerations to ensure your trip is both fun and safe.
In crowded areas and on public transportation, ensure your children stay close to you at all times. If you’re traveling with small children, consider using Apple Air Tags.
These can provide extra security and peace of mind in bustling places like the Louvre or the Paris Metro during rush hour.
Carrying emergency contact information and identification for all family members is crucial. In the event you get separated, this can greatly assist local authorities in reuniting your family.
Prioritize teaching your children about safety rules and ‘stranger danger’ before and during your trip. Explain the importance of staying close, not wandering off, and only speaking to strangers when accompanied by a parent.
Lastly, just as you would at home, maintain basic safety practices such as road safety and not leaving belongings unattended.
French Language and Communication Tips
While Parisians increasingly speak English, equipping your family with some basic French phrases and vocabulary can enhance your travel experience.
Here are some tips for traveling to Paris to help your kids communicate effectively in the French capital.
Begin by teaching your kids essential French words and phrases, such as “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), and “Où sont les toilettes?” (where is the bathroom?). Even a little French goes a long way, and locals often appreciate the effort.
Next, encourage your kids to engage in cultural exchanges and conversations with locals. Simple interactions like ordering French food or asking directions can be great learning opportunities and can foster a sense of respect for French culture.
For more complex communication needs, mobile apps and translation tools can be of great help. Apps like Duolingo can make language learning fun for kids, while Google Translate can help in understanding signs, menus, and more complex dialogues.
Finally, encourage your kids to learn about French customs and etiquette. Understanding basic social norms, like saying “Bonjour” before initiating conversation, or avoiding loud voices in public areas, can help them interact more effectively and respectfully.
Remember, learning a new language, even a bit of it, can be a rewarding part of travel for kids and adults alike. It fosters an appreciation for other cultures and promotes global understanding.
How to Visit Paris with Kids FAQs
Is Paris worth visiting with kids?
Absolutely! Paris is a city that’s wonderful for visitors of all ages. There are numerous kid-friendly attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, Jardin d’Acclimatation, the Arc de Triomphe, and many more. Plus, Parisian culture is family-friendly, so children are welcome almost everywhere.
How many days to see Paris with kids?
I suggest 5 days in Paris. This allows time to see major attractions at a relaxed pace and leaves room for breaks, parks, and kid-friendly activities.
Which area in Paris is best for children?
The 7th arrondissement is a great area for family vacations in Paris. It’s home to the Eiffel Tower and is close to several parks, like Champ de Mars. The 5th arrondissement (Latin Quarter) is also good, with its proximity to Jardin des Plantes and the Natural History Museum.
Where can you rent toy boats in Paris?
You can rent toy boats at the Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg. The traditional wooden sailboats are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Is it worth seeing the Mona Lisa?
That’s a personal choice. The Mona Lisa painting is quite small and it’s usually packed with tourists. Paris has other art museums that are less crowded.
Is it worth going up the Eiffel Tower with kids?
My kids LOVED doing an Eiffel Tower tour where they got to skip most of the lines and stairs and head up to the top level.
Where can I find the best hot chocolate in Paris for kids?
The best hot chocolate in Paris for kids can be found at Angelina, a renowned tearoom located on Rue de Rivoli. Known for its decadently rich and smooth ‘Chocolat L’Africain,’ it’s a treat kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Is Sacre Coeur kid-friendly?
Yes, Sacre Coeur is kid-friendly. The basilica is free to enter and offers stunning views of Paris from its location on Montmartre’s highest point. Kids might also enjoy the funicular ride up the hill or the lively street performances often occurring in the surrounding square.
What are the best playgrounds in Paris for kids?
The Jardin du Luxembourg, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and Jardin d’Acclimatation are renowned as the best playgrounds in Paris for kids.
What are the best spots to take photos of the Eiffel Tower?
The best spots to take photos of the Eiffel Tower include Trocadéro Gardens, which offers an unobstructed view of the tower across the Seine River, and the Champ de Mars, a large public greenspace where you can capture the tower with a beautiful grassy foreground.
Additionally, the rooftop terrace of the Tour Montparnasse provides an elevated panoramic view of the Parisian skyline, including the Eiffel Tower.
Are there theme parks near Paris for kids?
Yes, there are several theme parks near Paris that are perfect for children. The most famous is Disneyland Paris, which is located in Marne-la-Vallée, east of the city center. Another nearby Paris theme park is Parc Astérix, based on the popular French comic book series.
Tips for Visiting Paris with Kids Wrap Up
Planning a Paris family vacation may seem daunting at first, but with a little preparation, it becomes a dream come true.
From the top of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe to every charming café and park, visiting Paris with kids is an adventure full of memories waiting to happen.
Remember to plan ahead, engage in local culture, and take safety precautions, and your family will absolutely love Paris.
The city’s magic, history, and cuisine will undoubtedly charm the little ones and offer a truly unforgettable family trip to Paris.
Looking for more tips for visiting Paris with kids? Check out my top Paris planning tips, best day trips from Paris by train, Paris vs London, Paris Instagram spots, coolest Paris hidden gems, whether it’s worth visiting Versailles with kids, things to do in Paris with teens, how to take cute Paris family photos, my kid-friendly Paris itinerary, the best kid-friendly Paris tours, and best weekend trips in Europe, Europe travel tips, the best things to do in Paris at night!
