Curator’s statement
I’ve been to Paris in nearly every season of my life: as a wide-eyed kid, a moody high school student, a study-abroad student eating crêpes on a budget, a single 20-something walking everywhere in boots I couldn’t afford, a newlywed, and now—most recently—with my son. And the surprising thing is: Paris is just as magical with a kid as it was in all those other phases. Maybe even more so. The key, of course, is not trying to see everything. You’re not racing through a checklist—you’re building memories. Paris rewards slowing down. Stopping for ice cream three times in one day. Taking the metro just for fun. Watching boats on the Seine as the sun sets and the city starts to glow. This guide is built around moments that feel joyful and doable with kids, without sacrificing the beauty and rhythm that makes Paris feel like Paris.
The Fora Difference
Book with Kate to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Paris
Unlock perks by contacting Kate to book your trip.
Things to do in Paris
Visit the Musée d’Orsay instead of the Louvre: Skip the Louvre with kids—it’s overwhelming. The Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former train station, is light-filled, manageable in size, and full of recognizable Impressionist masterpieces. Bonus: There’s a café with a view of the clock tower.
Stroll the sculpture gardens at the Musée Rodin: The gardens are a dream for kids—wide paths, hidden nooks, and plenty of room to roam. Adults will love the calm elegance and beautiful art.
Stop at Elie Wiesel Playground in the Marais: Our favorite little neighborhood playground is hidden in plain sight in the 4th arrondissement. It’s charming, clean, and right near Place des Vosges. A great reset moment for kids.
Walk by the Louvre, then head to Angelina for hot chocolate: Let the kids see the glass pyramid and fountains outside the Louvre (it’s iconic!), then skip the chaos and head to Angelina nearby for the richest hot chocolate and pretty pastries.
Picnic at Luxembourg Gardens: This is Paris’ best kid park, with pony rides, puppet shows, sailboats, and plenty of shady lawns. Pack a snack and stay a while.
Explore Montmartre by funicular: Take the funicular up to Sacré-Cœur (great views, less whining). Let kids roam Place du Tertre, grab a crepe, and watch the artists at work.
Sunset Seine river cruise: A great first-night activity. Book an early dinner or a dinner cruise with a view—seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle from the river is a memory kids will never forget.
Carousel rides wherever you find them: There are charming carousels scattered across Paris. Let them hop on whenever the moment strikes—small joys go a long way in Paris.
Places to eat & drink in Paris
Chez Janou: Provençal bistro with a lively terrace and excellent chocolate mousse.
Bistrot des Tournelles: Warm and welcoming with great steak-frites.
Vins des Pyrénées: Brasserie with cocktails, charm, and a kid-friendly atmosphere.
Carette (Place des Vosges): Elegant café with quiche, croque monsieurs, and perfect pastries.
Loulou (near the Louvre): Chic but casual enough for lunch with kids. The terrace is a dream.
Pamela Popo: French classics and retro decor for a grown-up-feeling dinner that still works for kids.
Pozzetto / Une Glace à Paris / Berthillon / Amorino / Grom: The unofficial gelato circuit. All worth it.
Angelina: Paris’ most indulgent hot chocolate. Elegant and iconic.
Need to know
Book a hotel with a pool. It’s a great backup plan for hot or rainy days, and helps kids decompress.
Skip the Louvre (inside). It’s chaotic. D’Orsay and Rodin are better suited for younger travelers.
The Marais is your best base. It’s flat, walkable, and full of parks, bakeries, and boutiques.
Don’t overdo the itinerary. Paris rewards slow strolling. Let kids play, and fit culture around their moods.
Use the metro. Easy, fun, and often faster than Ubers. Bring a lightweight stroller for little ones.
Plan ahead for meals. Make one or two key reservations, then leave the rest open for crepes and spontaneity.
Don’t worry about nap schedules. Paris has a way of keeping everyone up a little later—in the best way.
Travel Advisor
Kate Van Dell
Get in touch with Kate
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Kate within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more travel inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Paris page.