Curator’s statement
I’ve just returned from Paris as the holiday season begins, when the crisp winter air heightens every sensation. In these early gray days, I found the city’s carousels to be unexpected sparks of color and joy. Their music and soft glow brought a warmth and vibrancy that lingered with me long after each visit. This guide is a collection of those moments—small circles of magic that brighten Paris in winter. I hope they bring the same delight to your journey.
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1st Arrondissement
Jardin des Tuileries Carousel
A classic Belle Époque carousel in the heart of the Tuileries Gardens. Perfect for kids and beautifully framed by the Louvre and long garden paths.Place du Marché Saint-Honoré Carousel
A small, cheerful carousel in a modern square surrounded by cafés. Great for a quick stop during a central Paris day.
4th Arrondissement
Hôtel de Ville Seasonal Carousel
A festive, old-fashioned carousel installed during holiday months. Bright, lively, and full of Parisian charm in the heart of the Marais.St-Paul / Rivoli Carousel (La Belle Époque)
A pretty neighborhood carousel with ornate detailing and a nostalgic feel. Perfect for families exploring the Marais.
5th Arrondissement
Dodo Manège–Jardin des Plantes
A whimsical carousel featuring extinct and endangered animals. Located inside the botanical garden and near kid-friendly museums.
6th Arrondissement
Jardin du Luxembourg Carousel
One of the oldest carousels in Paris, built in 1879. Children love the traditional ring-catching game while the carousel spins.
7th Arrondissement
Champ de Mars 1913 Carousel
A vintage, hand-cranked-style carousel with wooden horses. Its old-world charm makes it perfect for younger kids near the Eiffel Tower.
8th Arrondissement
Parc Monceau Carousel
A small, peaceful carousel in one of Paris’s most elegant neighborhood parks. Features classic horses, cars, and charming retro vehicles.
12th Arrondissement
Parc de Bercy Carousel
A traditional carousel inside a large, leafy city park. Great for pairing with a stroll through Bercy Village or along the Seine.Musée des Arts Forains Carousel (special visit)
A historic fairground museum with vintage carousels operated during special visits. Magical, theatrical, and unlike any other in Paris.
15th Arrondissement
Montparnasse Carousel (Gare Area)
A convenient carousel near Montparnasse station. Great for families staying in the Left Bank who want an easy ride nearby.
16th Arrondissement
Carousel at Trocadéro Gardens
A two-level carousel with postcard Eiffel Tower views. Festive and central, perfect for photos and quick joy-spins.Jardin d’Acclimatation Carousels (two carousels)
This children’s amusement park has two carousels plus rides and attractions. Ideal for a full morning or afternoon with kids.
17th Arrondissement
Square des Batignolles Carousel
A charming neighborhood carousel surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for a quieter, local day away from tourist zones.
18th Arrondissement
Carrousel de Saint-Pierre (Sacré-Cœur)
A beautiful double-decker carousel at the base of Montmartre. Iconic backdrop with the basilica directly above.
19th Arrondissement
Jules Verne Carousel–Parc de la Villette
A playful, fantasy-inspired carousel with rockets, balloons, and whimsical creatures. Great energy and lots of space for kids to run.Buttes-Chaumont Carousel
A sweet, simple carousel featuring swans and animal figures. A cozy stop inside one of Paris’s most dramatic hilltop parks.
Outside Paris (bonus)
Disneyland Paris Carousel
A storybook carousel that's pure Disney magic if families are already planning a visit.
Need to know
Most Paris carousels keep loose, weather-dependent schedules, typically running from 10 am to early evening. In colder months, some may open later or close without notice. If the carousel looks quiet, wait a moment—operators often return right on the hour or when riders appear.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Paris page.
Travel Advisor
Marisa Varga
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