Paris With Kids 101

Parks & outdoor fun

• Eiffel Tower:
A must-see for any Paris visit! Kids will love the elevator ride (or stairs, if they’re feeling adventurous!) to the top. The Champ de Mars park below is perfect for picnics, running around, and soaking in the beauty of the iconic tower. Tip: Don’t miss the Eiffel Tower at night! It sparkles for five minutes every hour after sunset—like fireworks made of light!

• Jardin des Tuileries:
This charming garden has it all—playgrounds, ponds to sail little boats, and plenty of space to run. Plus, it’s right next to the Louvre, so you can combine a bit of relaxation with art exploration.

• Parc des Buttes-Chaumont:
One of Paris’ most unique parks, with waterfalls, cliffs, and suspension bridges! Perfect for kids to explore and have an adventure in nature.

Museums & educational fun

• Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie:
For curious minds, this science museum is packed with interactive exhibits and fun activities for kids of all ages. Don’t miss Cité des Enfants, a dedicated space where little ones can experiment and learn through play.

• Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle: This museum is a total hit for animal lovers! Kids will be amazed by the dinosaur skeletons, cool natural history exhibits, and hands-on activities that bring science to life. The museum is surrounded by plenty of other wonderful sites, so you could easily spend half a day exploring the area. It’s a great spot to take your time and enjoy everything nearby!

Nearby to visit:

• Jardin des Plantes: Right next door, this beautiful botanical garden is perfect for a stroll or a picnic. It’s a peaceful spot where the kids can run around and enjoy nature.

• Grande Galerie de l’Évolution: Also within the same museum, this gallery takes you through the fascinating story of life on Earth. Definitely worth checking out if you’re already at the Muséum!

• Zoological Park of Paris (Paris Zoo): Just a short trip from the museum, this zoo is a great place for animal lovers. It’s part of the Muséum and gives families a chance to explore animals in spacious, natural habitats.

• The Louvre Museum:
It may be the world’s most famous museum, but it’s also surprisingly kid-friendly! Look out for family tours or treasure hunts that make exploring the masterpieces fun for little ones. Of course, don’t forget to say hi to the Mona Lisa! Tip: Kids into gaming? Rent a Nintendo 3DS XL guide at the Louvre for a fun, interactive tour with maps and challenges. Prefer no screens? Try a family treasure hunt with puzzles and clues!

• Musée Grévin (Wax Museum):
Kids will love seeing lifelike wax figures of their favorite celebrities, superheroes, and even Disney characters at this quirky museum. It’s totally photo-worthy and a fun way to learn about famous figures.

Experiences & activities

• Seine River cruise:
Taking a boat ride down the Seine is one of the best ways to see Paris. You’ll glide past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and other iconic landmarks. Many cruises offer family-friendly options with the flexibility to hop on and off at various sights.

• Atelier des Lumières: A truly special experience for both kids and adults. The immersive art displays bring masterpieces to life in a way that feels magical, making it a wonderful way for children to connect with art.

• Chocolate or macaron workshop:
If your little ones love sweet treats (who doesn’t?), why not take a chocolate-making or macaron workshop? It’s a fun and interactive way to dive into French culinary culture while getting a taste of Paris (literally!). It’s a perfect bonding activity for the whole family.

• Coddy Games App:
If you’re looking for a more interactive way to explore the city, download the Coddy Games app. This educational app turns sightseeing into a fun game, keeping the kids engaged while you explore Paris together.

Theme parks & fun zones

• Disneyland Paris:
For a day of pure magic, Disneyland Paris is the ultimate destination! From thrilling rides to meeting beloved characters, it’s a dream come true for any Disney fan. Just a short train ride away from the city center, it’s a perfect family adventure.

Tip: I love to treat Disneyland Paris as a destination all on its own. We typically spend a couple of nights at one of the nearby kid-themed hotels, so we can really make the most of the experience. It’s such a magical time for the whole family when you have the chance to enjoy the park without feeling rushed!

• Parc Astérix:
For an epic family experience, Parc Astérix is a must if you have more time outside the city. Located just outside Paris, this theme park is inspired by the world of the famous French comic characters Asterix and Obelix. Expect thrilling rides, live shows, and plenty of fun for all ages.

• Jardin d'Acclimation:
An amusement park tucked into the beautiful Bois de Boulogne. It’s packed with rides, playgrounds, a mini zoo, and lots of space to run around. It’s an ideal spot for a full family day out! What’s great is its central location, making it super easy to access. Plus, you can pay for each attraction individually, so it’s a flexible way to enjoy the park at your own pace.

Trying to narrow down a list of restaurants in Paris hardly does justice to the city’s endless array of incredible dining spots and delicious food. I’ll share a few of my favorites, but honestly, everywhere we ate was absolutely delicious!

Place du Tertre—Montmartre

Not a single restaurant, but a lively square filled with cafés and bistros in the heart of Montmartre. Enjoy classic French cuisine while watching street artists at work—a charming spot for a relaxed outdoor meal with plenty of atmosphere.

Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

A Parisian institution! This restaurant is famous for its simple yet delicious offering: tender steak served with their signature secret sauce and crispy fries—plus a second helping is included. No menu, just a focus on doing one thing exceptionally well. Always popular, so expect a bit of a queue.

Ladurée

An iconic Parisian patisserie, world-famous for its delicate and colorful macarons. A dreamy stop for desserts, tea, and a touch of elegance—kids will love the whimsical displays, and adults will love the refined treats.

Le Relais du 15ème

A cozy, lesser-known gem tucked in the 15th arrondissement. Offers authentic French dishes in a warm, neighborhood bistro atmosphere. Ideal for those looking to escape the tourist crowds and enjoy a more local experience.

La Maison de l’Aubrac—near Champs-Élysées

A top spot for meat lovers, known for high-quality Aubrac beef, steak tartare, and traditional dishes like aligot. Warm, rustic vibe with a great wine list—open late, perfect after a long day.

Hippopotamus—Val d’Europe

A family-friendly French steakhouse chain located conveniently in the Val d’Europe shopping center near Disneyland Paris. Great for casual dining with a variety of grilled meats, burgers, and kid-friendly options. Bonus tip: Eat at this branch and you’ll get a discount voucher for the Aquarium in the mall—a great combo for families!

Angelina

One word: hot chocolate. Their rich, velvety “L’Africain” hot chocolate is legendary. Paired with a Mont-Blanc pastry or a light lunch in a stunning Belle Époque setting, it’s a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.