Taking your children to Paris means giving them stars in their eyes — provided you alternate monuments and playtime, because little legs tire fast and the youngest won't hold their attention in front of a museum case. The good news is that the capital is full of activities that delight parents and children alike.
Here's our selection for a balanced family stay, between revisited classics, parks and fun outings. For all the activities, head to our what to do in Paris page.
The great classics that children love too
The Eiffel Tower remains a universal wonder: the lift ride, the dizzying view and the vast iron structure fascinate children. Follow up with a Bateau-Mouche cruise on the Seine: comfortably seated, the little ones watch the monuments drift by without walking, and the trip flies by.
Another safe bet: the Luxembourg or Tuileries gardens, with their ponds where you sail little boats, their merry-go-rounds and swings. Just the thing to catch your breath between two visits.
Eiffel Tower & cruise for families
Skip-the-line tickets for the Eiffel Tower and family-friendly cruises.
Theme parks and outdoor outings
It's impossible to talk about family Paris without Disneyland Paris: 40 minutes from the centre by RER, the park is a whole day of guaranteed magic. Closer, the Jardin d'Acclimatation (Bois de Boulogne) mixes small rides, animals and green spaces, while the Ménagerie of the Jardin des Plantes acts as a mini-zoo in the heart of the city.
Disneyland Paris & parks
Tickets for Disneyland Paris and the major family attractions.
Museums that captivate children
Forget the idea that “museum” rhymes with “boredom”: the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie (La Villette) offers interactive experiences and a Cité des Enfants designed for them; the National Museum of Natural History and its Grande Galerie de l'Évolution line up life-size animals that leave you speechless. Even the Louvre can become a treasure hunt if you go looking for the animals hidden in the paintings.
- Pushchair: handy for toddlers, but beware of the metro’s many stairs — favour the bus.
- Pace: one big visit in the morning, a fun activity in the afternoon, and regular snack breaks.
- Bookings: Eiffel Tower, Disneyland and cruises are booked online to avoid the queues.
