Planning a trip to the City of Light and excited about exploring Paris with your little ones? With all its cool art, history, and yummy food, the French capital is packed with awesome stuff for kids to check out! Here at Civitatis, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Paris with kids. From interactive museums to large parks and culinary experiences to adventure tours, check out our favorite 15 things to do in Paris avec les enfants.
A Guide to Things to Do in Paris with Kids
- Family Tour of Paris
- Eiffel Tower
- River Seine Cruise
- Aquarium
- Centre Pompidou
- Asterix Park
- Disneyland Paris
- Chocolate Museum
- Paradox Museum
- Paris Parks
- Treasure Hunt in Paris
- Bike around Paris
- Ballon de Paris
- Photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower
- Christmas in Paris
1. Go on a Family Tour
Exploring a bustling city like Paris can be a whirlwind for both adults and little adventurers. With countless attractions and sights to take in, it’s easy to feel a bit worn out after even just one day of non-stop exploration. Let’s be real: traveling with kids, while enchanting, can also be overwhelming.
Dealing with long lines, security checks, and navigating through crowded spaces is nobody’s idea of fun, especially when you’ve got little ones in tow. So why not get your feet wet in the City of Light with a tour specifically geared towards families?
Kick off your Parisian escapade with a family-friendly tour of the city! Take a journey through the streets of the French capital, and get the kids in on the fun with riddles and games as you explore.
2. Go Up the Eiffel Tower
Ah, the Eiffel Tower. A symbol of Paris, a cultural icon. Believe us when we say there’s no shortage of tours and activities happening in, on, and around the tower!
Pro tip: regardless of what activity you do, book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance to skip the lines at the ticket office. Arrive early on the day and breeze through security to beat the crowds. This way, you can enjoy your visit and maximize your view!
For any traveler visiting the French capital with kids, hitching a ride up the Eiffel Tower’s easy and convenient elevator offers an experience that will amaze the kids. Book your tickets to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower for sweeping Parisian city views. Or kick it up a notch and skip the lines with a ticket up to the 3rd floor.
Another pro tip: your day at the Eiffel Tower may start early in the morning, but the real magic? Right after sunset! Snag a spot at Champ de Mars, the lawn area just in front of the tower, or any point nearby really with the tower in full view, and watch how the iron structure lights up in a dazzling light show.
No worries if you can’t make it at sunset, though! The Eiffel Tower puts on its most magical show at the top of every hour, every evening.
3. Cruise Down the River Seine
Once you come back down from the Eiffel Tower, roll right into a cruise down the Seine River. The kids will have a blast spotting different monuments sailing downriver while you take in Paris from all angles.
Check out this hop-on, hop-off cruise down the River Seine for a unique route through Paris! Pickup is right at the Eiffel Tower port and stops at Notre Dame and the Champs Elysées.
4. Take a Deep Dive at the Aquarium
Dive into another fascinating adventure with a visit to the Paris Aquarium! Venture into the depths of the ocean without leaving the city. The Paris Aquarium is especially great for kids, offering a free and downloadable virtual guide tailored for kids.
With the app, kids can learn fun facts about marine life via interactive quizzes and puzzles. Plus, the aquarium has virtual reality spaces, where, alongside the app guide, they can plunge into the depths of the “shark tank” in search of underwater treasures!
Book your visit to the Paris Aquarium with the Paris Pass for easy and hassle-free sightseeing. Admission to the aquarium is included, plus additional attractions making it a great way to save!
5. Play at Centre Pompidou
Paris is known for many things, and art is a major factor in the city’s world-class status and a symbol of the country of France. But can art be kid-friendly? Well, Centre Pompidou aims to do just that!
Don’t let its industrial exterior fool you, this center has spaces specifically designed for little ones. Make it a family affair as you all explore the world of modern and contemporary art. The Galeries des Enfants installation space is all about hands-on fun for the whole family. Here, everyone can dive into immersive exhibits and experiments designed to spark a love for creativity.
Get your tickets to the Centre Pompidou and dive into a day of immersive fun. Plus, the cherry on top of this art-filled day? A beautiful rooftop terrace offering sweeping panoramic views of the City of Light!
6. Get to Know Asterix and Obelix
Paris is also home to various amusement and theme parks offering adrenaline-pumping adventures for children. One of our favorites is Parc Astérix, which has created a whole world within its park grounds dedicated to the classic French bande desssinée (comic book) Asterix and Obelisk.
With over 40 attractions inspired by the world of France’s most popular comic book characters, the fun never ends! Escape the downtown area for a day and take the kids an hour and a half’s drive from the center.
7. Visit Disneyland Paris
Who hasn’t dreamed of visiting Disneyland? The world’s most famous theme park, and Europe’s most visited, finds it’s home in Paris. With over 10 million visitors every year, this park is a family’s dream destination. The park’s installations are designed not only for the kid’s entertainment but also for parents. Enjoy the park attractions, accessible to children of all ages, from those in strollers to those running at top speed to be first in line for the ride!
Not to mention, the park offers ongoing parades, light shows, music, and a wide array of cuisine. Any visit to Paris with the kids isn’t complete without going to the most magical place on Earth.
Visiting the park can seem overwhelming, as there are so many activities to see and do. Let us take the stress out of planning the day and check out a day trip to Disneyland Paris! Transport from the capital is included for stress-free fun. Then again, if you’ve rented a car, check out these Disneyland Paris 1 day, 2 day, 3 day or 4 day passes.
For a more in-depth view of Disneyland Paris, check out our post about the best rides and attractions, and make your day magical!
8. Indulge at the Chocolate Museum
Paris is a culinary hotspot, but while in the City of Light, don’t forget to indulge in your sweet tooth at the Choco-Story Museum.
While the museum itself isn’t all that big, it certainly offers plenty of sweet things to do! It’s an interactive exhibit paired with games and activities for the kiddos, and it’s a must-see in Paris. Enjoy learning about the history behind chocolate and satisfy your sweet tooth with a tasting at the end.
Book a visit to Choco-Story Museum and see the little ones’ faces light up instantly!
9. Get Lost at the Paradox Museum
There’s no shortage of museums in this city, and certainly, there’s plenty for the kids. Watch the kiddos move through interactive optical illusions at the Paradox Museum and have their minds blown!
Spend an afternoon here full of laughs and giggles as you work through each exhibit. At the Paradox Museum, nothing makes sense–and that’s the best part! Book your visit to the Paradox Museum Paris, and let the creative juices flow, making it a family affair.
10. Have A Picnic at the Park
There are plenty of parks in Paris for kids to run around and play in, so why not make a day of it and have a picnic? Take a break from seeing the sights and park it along the grassy knolls of Paris’ park areas.
When it comes to parks in Paris that are top picks for keeping the kiddos entertained, two really stand out. First up, Jardin des Tuileries smack dab in the city center near the Louvre. It’s got play areas just for little ones with all sorts of outdoor fun stuff.
Then you’ve Luxembourg Gardens, near the Paris Pantheon. It’s got these huge grassy spaces, perfect for letting the kids loose. And we can’t forget the swings, rock-climbing walls, and sandboxes begging to be played with! Let the kids go wild while you kick back on the grass for a short breather.
And hey, if you’re up for exploring a bit further out, the Cluny Museum Garden and Monceau Park are worth checking out. They’re a bit away from the city center, but they still offer the opportunity for you to catch your breath among all the hustle and bustle of Paris.
11. Take out Your Inner Detective
Heading to Paris means you’ve gotta hit up Montmartre, that bohemian hotspot. While strolling the romantic streets may be fun for parents, it may not be so much for the kiddos. But no worries, because we’ve got you covered!
Go on an adventure quest via this puzzle hunt tour of Montmartre and let the kids get in on the action. Solve riddles that take you to iconic sites like the Sacré-Coeur Basilica and the Moulin Rouge. Plus, you’ll uncover some hidden gems along the way. It’s a fun twist on exploring the city that the whole family will love.
12. Explore Paris on Two Wheels
Looking for a fun way to tour the city while visiting Paris with the kids? Try out a bike tour in Paris with kids for an exciting thing to do!
Just remember, different tours have different age requirements, especially if they involve electric bikes. Our recommendation? Before booking, double-check the age limit with the tour provider. That way, everyone is safe and sound and having a blast pedaling around the City of Light.
If you find yourself traveling with teenagers, another exciting way to hit the streets of the French capital is a segway tour! Get the kids behind the handlebars and tear up the streets of Paris on a segway.
13. Soar over Paris in the Ballon de Paris Generali
Picture this: you’re living out your childhood dream of flying in a hot air balloon, but with a twist–it’s a family affair!
Located in Andre Citroen Park, this tethered hot air balloon that soars up to 150 meters (492 feet) has garnered fame since its debut in 1999. Some consider it the best lookout point in Paris, giving the world-renowned Eiffel Tower a run for its money! From these heights, the kids will be amazed and in awe as they take to the skies over the City of Light.
Make sure to book your Ballon de Paris Generali flight early because this hot spot fills up fast. Plus, take advantage of discounted rates for the kiddos so you can skip the line and keep them from getting antsy.
14. Have a Photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower
Why not make your family trip even more memorable by bringing home an unforgettable souvenir? Consider booking a private photo shoot in front of the Eiffel Tower! Strike a pose together against the iconic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower and capture professional photos of the family’s favorite trip. It’s a unique and original way to cherish your time in Paris with the kids and share your adventures with loved ones back home.
Just a heads-up: like planning for your Eiffel Tower visit, it’s smart to grab your photo spot early! On the day of your shoot, try to get to the Eiffel Tower bright and early. The area tends to get pretty crowded, so beating the rush guarantees you’ll have all the space you need for those perfect shots. The early morning drag will be well worth the effort!
15. Discover the Magic of Paris at Christmastime
If you’re visiting Paris with kids during Christmas, you’re in for a treat! The city decks itself out in unparalleled elegance during the festive season. To soak in the magical lights, we suggest hopping on a panoramic tour aboard the Paris Christmas bus. It’s a fantastic way to marvel at the decorations without the need for long walks. Plus, since it’s an open-top vehicle, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to snap some amazing pictures and watch the kid’s faces light up.
Did we forget to mention the Marchés de Noël markets? Paris, during this time of year, really pulls out all the stops with this. Whether it’s at Champ de Mars, Champs Elysées, or around Notre Dame, these markets are a must-see during the holiday season. Typically open from mid-November until shortly after New Year’s Eve, they offer a festive atmosphere full of cheer to explore and enjoy.
How to Get Around Paris with Kids
Getting around the city using public transportation is convenient and budget-friendly, especially with the abundance of discounts available to minors. It’s a great option for exploring without breaking the bank.
Then again, the Paris sightseeing bus is your best bet for a comprehensive tour of the capital. With the flexibility to hop on and off at various stops unlimited times over 1 or 2 days, you can explore the best of the city without wearing yourself out. It’s the perfect way to soak in all the sights and sounds of Paris at your own pace.
Don’t miss out on booking a boat trip on the Seine for an unforgettable experience! Glide along the iconic river with an English audio guide, offering a unique perspective on landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and more. It’s the perfect way to soak in the beauty of Paris from a whole new angle.
Tips for Saving in Paris as a Family
Traveling to France on a budget? No worries! Here’s a top tip to save some cash in Paris: consider getting the Go City Paris Pass. This handy tourist card grants you unlimited access for several days to a wide range of museums, activities, and city experiences at a discounted rate. With attractions like the Aquarium, Asterix Park, and the Chocolate Museum included, you’ll get to enjoy Paris to the fullest without breaking the bank.
To snag the most budget-friendly flights, aim to travel to Paris during the months of February, March, May, September, and October. Not only will you likely find cheaper airfare during these times, but hotel rooms and apartments also tend to be more affordable. It’s a win-win for saving some cash while still enjoying the charms of Paris.
Paris may have its price tag, but like any destination, it’s all about managing your options to make the most of your getaway. Now’s the time to create unforgettable memories with your family! If you’re looking for more plans, be sure to check out the full range of excursions, guided tours, and activities in Paris. Whatever you choose, prepare for ‘petite’ adventures and ‘oui’-mazing memories!
