Paris, the City of Lights, is often considered a romantic getaway or a girlsâ tripâbut it can also be a memorable destination for families of all ages. Planning a trip to Paris with my three kids, ages 2.5 to 13, meant considering attractions for different ages, time zone differences, the long-haul flight, and the inevitable questions: Where should you stay? Which French words are actually essential? And how do you narrow down what to do in a city that offers so many dazzling options?
Consider this your ultimate guide to visiting Paris with a family. Itâs the guide I wish someone had handed me before we went on our own Parisian adventure. Keep reading for the best tips on visiting Paris with kids.
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Things to do in Paris with kids
Paris offers so many activities that narrowing them down can feel dauntingâas do the crowds at many famous attractions. Hereâs the most important thing I learned about visiting museums with children: timed entry tickets matter.
Secure them at least a month in advance, if possible. Otherwise, even with advanced tickets, you may find yourself waiting in line for HOURSâevery parentâs worst nightmare. Tip: Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to get oriented and find the proper entrance. Here are my top things to do in Paris with kids.
Visit kid-friendly museums in Paris
The MusĂ©e dâOrsay is a kid-friendlier choice than the Louvre
Housed inside a former train station, this museum is still large, but far more manageable. It features an impressive collection of impressionist artists like Monet and Degas, and post-impressionists like Van Gogh and CĂ©zanne. Personally, I preferred the artwork to the Louvreâs collection.
The museumâs replica of Paris and the Palais Garnier are also worth mentioning.
But the standout feature for families is the childrenâs space on the second floor. During school holiday periods, the grand ballroom transforms into a playroom for children with arts and crafts, games, and educational toys, which ultimately made MusĂ©e dâOrsay my favorite museum for children.
Other kid-friendly museums in Paris
Another great option is the MusĂ©e de lâ Orangerie for its incredible Monetâs Water Lilies and a dedicated play space (smaller and less elaborate than Orsayâs).
Other kid-friendly museums worth bookmarking for future trips:
- The Cluny Museum for funky medieval art (think decapitated statue heads, old keys, etc.)
- Musée des Arts et Métiers for arts and crafts
- The fashion museum, Palais Galliera
Should you visit the Louvre with children?
The Louvre is a former palace, making the building itself a work of art. I joke that I saw the Louvre at âtoddler speed,â but itâs true. The Mona Lisa draws enormous flocksâI only managed a brief side glimpse as I shuffled past with an energetic child.
Ask yourself: How badly do you want to lay eyes on the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, or the Venus de Milo? With small children, the museum can feel overwhelming due to large crowds, size, and spotty cell service. But if your children are older, I do think itâs doable. I recommend Rick Stevesâ kid-friendly, free Louvre audio guide to bring the experience to life.
If I could only choose one museum for a family-friendly itinerary, Iâd opt for the MusĂ©e dâOrsay.
Stop in to the Si Tu Veux toy shop
We visited this charming toy shop as a bribe after a long day at the Louvre. Located in the charming Galeries Vivienne, it was well worth the stop.
Take a sunset boat tour of the Seine
A river cruise is one of the best ways to see Paris with kids. If your children can handle an evening outing, watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle from the water is unforgettableâand far less crowded than viewing it on land!
The tower lights up for the first five minutes of every hour after dark, so aim for a sunset cruise.
We booked online tickets with Vedettes du Pont Neuf, which departs from the Square du Vert Galant. Arrive at least a half hour early to try to secure indoor seatingâit can get chilly at night. However, the best views are definitely on the top deck.
Visit the Shakespeare & Co. bookstore
If your family loves bookstores, this iconic landmark is a must. Itâs creaky, cozy, and full of character. Thereâs also a decent-sized childrenâs section and a dedicated reading lounge upstairs. The line can get long, but the attendant waved us ahead when they saw our strollerâa moment of French kindness I wonât forget. Located across from Notre-Dame Cathedral, Shakespeare & Co. bookstore is a great starting point for exploring the Latin District.
When you buy a book here, they stamp the inside and offer stickersâmy kids felt very special.
Stroll through the parks and ride Parisian carousels
The French adore their carousels. Theyâre so whimsical that I would happily plan an entire trip around where to see Parisian carousels.
Jardin des Tuileries
Outside the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden features a playground and an old fashioned carousel. The panels showcase Parisian scenes, like Notre Dame, the Seine, and the Eiffel Tower, while French nursery rhymes play as it spins.
Jardin du Luxembourg
This stunning garden space includes sculptures, walking paths, statues, water ponds, gardens, and a play area for the children. The carousel here was designed by the same architectâCharles Garnierâwho designed the Paris Opera house. Itâs simpler but every bit as charming as the grander ones.
Plan to dedicate a few hours to this park as itâs good for a family romp, but be aware that it closes by 4:30 p.m. in the wintertime.
If you exit near R. de Medicis corner, stop by Le Rostande for divine hot chocolate and a famously grumpy catâtwo things children love.
HĂŽtel de Ville
This two-story carousel isnât a permanent fixture, so check ahead. My children loved the vintage automobile, hand-painted horses, and spinning umbrella. HĂŽtel de Ville itself is a magnificent architectural backdrop for family photos.
Take a day trip to Versailles
About 45-minutes from Paris, this lovely town is most known for the Palace of Versailles. Download the official Versailles app for room-by-room guides and maps.
Seeing the entire palace and grounds isnât realistic in a day. Since the lovely gardens were dormant for winter, we decided on an after-hours Christmas celebration, Le Parcours du Roi, as our Versailles experience. This intimate experience featured period dance and music. We enjoyed it, even though it was mostly in French. The city of Versailles itself is also worth strolling in for a leisurely meal or window shopping.
How to get there
The RER C train is an affordable optionâour group of seven paid around $30 for the trip to Versailles. However, getting back, we tiredly opted for a $100 rideshare.
Should Disneyland Paris be on your itinerary?
Itâs often ranked among Disneyâs least-loved parks, with reports of long lines and underwhelming food and ambience. Many Disney bloggers recommend skipping it on a first Paris trip unless your child is desperate to see Remyâs Ratatouille Adventure ride and eat at Bistrot Chez RĂ©my. However, Disneyland Parisâs reputation may get an upgrade in 2026 with the opening of Disney Adventure World in late March. The upgraded park will include the new World of Frozen, a land dedicated to Elsa, Anna, and Olafâs Kingdom of Arendelle.
Where to stay in Paris with kids
As one of the worldâs most walkable cities, staying centrally located saves time and money. Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods known as arrondissements.
Many seasoned Parisians recommend the Latin District for its bohemian vibe and historic charm, Le Marais for a luxury stay closer to some of the best restaurants and museums, or the first arrondissement for proximity to the Louvre and Tuileries.
One Paris-enthusiast I spoke to, Richard Campbell, owner of 10 Adventures shares he loved Le Marais, so he can take his kids to âwalk along Canal Saint-Martin and explore up to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (a spectacular park with a folly on a ridge) on days to get away from the crowds or burn some of their energy.â
Best hotels in Paris for families
Le Marais family-friendly hotels
Jacques de Molay
A three-star hotel that makes a practical home base for families, offering amenities such as free cribs, soundproof rooms, blackout curtains, and double beds. In this small hotel, youâll be near attractions like MusĂ©e de Picasso and fashionable shops and restaurants.
Crowne Plaza Paris â Republique
This four-star hotel is located on the Place de la RĂ©publique, close to the Le Marais, Canal Saint-Martin, and within walking distance and easy metro access to sights like the Centre Pompidou. Here youâll find spacious rooms designed for comfort, with quality bedding, modern amenities, and family-friendly facilities.
The Latin Quarter hotels in Paris for families
French Theory
French Theory is a three-star hotel near Luxembourg Gardens and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Expect a modern interior, a well-stocked library, free Wi-Fi, and a deli for quick bites. Rooms are small, but many families find that an on-site laundry room, optional bunk-bed layouts, and excellent location make up for the room size.
Villa Pantheon
A four-star property located in an ornate building near many shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Panthéon monument and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The British-themed decor feels cozy and classic, and guests consistently praise the friendly concierge. Babysitting (for a fee) and cribs are available, making it especially kid-friendly.
First Arrondissement hotels in Paris for families
HĂŽtel Regina Louvre
This luxurious five-star Parisian hotel offers spacious suites, family rooms, kid-friendly details like Little Prince bath products, in-room childcare, and a dedicated concierge. Youâll also be steps from the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries, and countless restaurants and shops.
HĂŽtel du Louvre
Another five-star stay, this hotel is a âfantastic option for families who want to walk everywhere â museums, gardens, and river strolls are all nearby, which minimizes transit time with kids,â shares Chelsea Loren, a hospitality and commercial brand photographer. Roomy suites, children âs welcome gifts, and play tents make this another excellent family choice.
Budget-friendly Paris hotels for families in the outer arrondissements
Staying in Paris can be expensive, especially during peak seasons. If youâre traveling on a budget, consider an outer arrondissementâbut be aware, you may spend more on transportation.
During the holidays, prices were sky high, so my family stayed in the 20th arrondissement near the Buzenval station. We loved that it was a quieter neighborhood with a truly local feel, so being in outer Paris didnât bother us.
That said, the 20th arrondissement was about 30-40 minutes from the main attractions via taxi or MĂ©tro. Since our family was often too tired to navigate the MĂ©tro at night, our rideshare costs averaged about $40 per ride. It added up quickly, but was still cheaper than renting closer to the city center. Also worth noting: as a family of seven (in-laws & our family of five), most hotels wouldâve charged us for three rooms as they have a max occupancy of four people per room, making an Airbnb an economical choice.
Here are a few budget hotel options in outer arrondissements to consider:
MEININGER
In the 12th arrondissement, the MEININGER Hotel has a laid-back, family-friendly environment. Private rooms offer up to 6 beds, baby cots, free breakfast, and special family rates. You will have to share a kitchen and game zone with other guests, but the hostel vibes can be a fun way to meet other travelers.
HĂŽtel Joke â Astotel
HĂŽtel Joke â Astotel is a quirky, colorful hotel that children love for the kidsâ menus and little humorous touches, like empty snack bags. The 9th arrondissement is known for its walkability without feeling chaotic.
Family-friendly eats in Paris
I researched restaurants extensively before our tripâthen a friend offered wise advice: eat where you are and when hunger strikes.
Paris is bustling with sidewalk cafes, bistros, and bakeries. Focus less on where to eat and more on what to eat. Nutella crépes kept my kids happy, while café stops for cappuccinos and hot chocolates warmed us when the cold struck. My teenage son devoured an entire baguette himself one night. If you still want specific stops, here are a few family-friendly Paris restaurants worth noting:
Angelina
This famous tea room is known for its Belle Ăpoque ambience and legendary hot chocolate. Skip the long line and head to the bakery to order macaroons wrapped in elegant boxes and other takeaway treats.
Café du Louvre
We never ate here due to crowds, but the adorable miniature carousel out front thoroughly entertained my children. Reviews for the service and the French cuisine are generally positive.
Cafe de Flore
One of Parisâs most beloved cafes, historically frequented by the famous and the influential. Though busy, the staff was surprisingly tolerant of my children. Nearby, youâll find Saint-Germain-des-PrĂ©s, the oldest church in Paris.
Other kid-friendly restaurants originally on my Paris itinerary
- Le Petit Cler (for breakfast and pots of creme)
- Le Septieme Vin
- La Terrasse du 7eme
- Le Royal
- Crep and Tea
- La Place Royal in Marais
- Brassiere Bofinger
- Crepolog
- LâEbouillante
- Augberge de la Reine Blanche
- Cafe Med Creperie
- Restaurant Polidor
Tips for getting around Paris with kids
Using the Metro with kids
Download the Bonjour RATP app for adults. Since one phone equals one pass, children will need physical cards. Purchase them at metro stations, but allow for extra time as lines can be long.
Using a stroller in Paris
Choose a small umbrella travel stroller. I used the Summer 3D Lite and found it easily foldable, lightweight, and spacious enough for essentials.
Surviving a long day in Paris with kids
Take it slow. Schedule museum visits for late mornings, aim for just one major attraction a day, and keep expectations flexible. On busy days, we often sat in cathedrals so our toddler could nap in the dark, quiet atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should you spend in Paris with kids?
For families, I recommend four to six days in Paris. This allows you to explore at a comfortable pace, factoring in only a few activities a day. We spent eight days, but that included two long travel days, leaving us six days to explore, which was honestly enough time to do everything mentioned above and factor in breaks. One of the best parts of Paris is lingering in a café, so giving yourself enough time to slow down and savor the city is important.
Which French words should you practice before your trip?
- Bonjourâthe French actually consider it rude not to start a conversation without first offering this friendly greeting.
- Merci beaucoupâthank you or âexcuse meâ if you bump into someone. It can be shortened to merci.
- Pardonâexcuse me
- Toiletâuniversally understood
- Au revoireâgoodbye
What airline should you fly to Paris from the U.S.?
We flew on a direct Air France flight. It was roomy, the crew was kind, and the food was very Frenchâone last hurrah for the cuisine.
I also just learned about French Beeâ a newer airline dedicated to low-cost, long-haul travel on a modern, eco-efficient Airbus A350 that can make Paris a reality for families on a budget. You can choose between Basic Economy or a Premium Cabin that includes meals and other priority services.
How to best avoid getting pick-pocketed in Paris?
Be hyper vigilant in high traffic areas. I wore this crossbody at all timesâit was roomy enough to fit a small water bottle, wipes, and a few diapers. Consider a phone-wallet wristlet or lanyard and an RFID-blocking card holder to protect against digital theft.
How do you get your kids excited about Paris?
We read many Paris-themed books before our trip, including the following:
- This Is Paris by Miroslav Sasek and M. Lasek
- Ella in the Garden of Giverny by Daniel Fehr
- Dear Vincent by Michael Bird
- Sylviaâs Bookshop by Robert Burleigh
- Through the Window by Barb Rosenstock
- Rooftoppers by Katherine Randell (chapter book)
The night before visiting attractions, we also watched short travel videos on YouTube that helped pique the kidsâ interest levels.
While my children appreciated the museums, what they loved most were the Nutella-smothered crĂȘpes, bakeries on every corner, and the beautiful parks.
As for me, I love watching their faces light up when they hear any mention of France. Their curiosityâand how travel opens their world a little biggerâis what inspires me to start planning our next trip.
Kris Ann Valdez, Contributing Writer
Kris Ann Valdez is a mom and freelance journalist who covers parenting, lifestyle, and science-based topics. Beyond The Everymom, Kris Ann contributes to national outlets such as Good Housekeeping, Parents, and Scary Mommy. Sheâs also the creator of âThe Guide Girl,â a Substack dedicated to inspiring writers to pursue publication.
