Paris, often referred to as the “City of Light,” is not only a romantic destination for couples but also a fantastic place for families to explore and enjoy together. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse array of attractions, Paris offers something for visitors of all ages. I’ll be sharing a comprehensive overview of kid-friendly activities and attractions in Paris, ensuring that families can make the most of their time in this enchanting city.
Exploring the Iconic Eiffel Tower
Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
Arrival: We took the metro to the Trocadéro station and enjoyed a scenic walk across the Seine River to reach the Eiffel Tower.
Description: The Eiffel Tower needs no introduction, as it stands as an iconic symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Our family was captivated by the sheer size and grandeur of this architectural marvel. We opted for tickets to the second floor, where we marveled at panoramic views of Paris and learned about the tower’s history through interactive exhibits.
Activities: At the Eiffel Tower, families can enjoy guided tours, photo opportunities, and even picnics in the nearby Champ de Mars park. The tower also features several dining options, including casual cafes and upscale restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Service: While the lines for tickets can be long, especially during peak tourist season, we appreciated the efficiency of the ticketing process and the helpful staff who assisted with any inquiries. The availability of elevators and ramps also ensured accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs.
Recommendation: Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must for families traveling to Paris, offering a memorable experience for both parents and children alike. Be sure to book tickets in advance to skip the queues and consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Exploring the Magical Disneyland Paris
Location: Boulevard de Parc, 77700 Coupvray, France
Arrival: We took a direct train from central Paris to the Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station, which is conveniently located near the entrance to Disneyland Paris.
Description: For a day of enchantment and excitement, we ventured to Disneyland Paris, a magical theme park that delights visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides and attractions to beloved Disney characters roaming the streets, the park offers endless entertainment for families. We explored different themed lands, including Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Discoveryland, immersing ourselves in the whimsical world of Disney.
Activities: Disneyland Paris offers a wide range of attractions, shows, and parades tailored to families, from gentle rides for young children to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters for thrill-seekers. We enjoyed classic attractions like “It’s a Small World” and “Peter Pan’s Flight,” as well as live performances and character meet-and-greets throughout the park.
Service: The park’s well-trained staff were friendly and accommodating, ensuring a seamless experience for families. We appreciated the availability of amenities such as baby care centers, stroller rentals, and family-friendly dining options, making our visit stress-free and enjoyable.
Recommendation: Disneyland Paris is a magical destination that promises a day of fun and adventure for families visiting Paris. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and take advantage of package deals that include park admission, meals, and accommodation.
Exploring Parc de la Villette and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
Location: 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris
Arrival: We took the metro to the Porte de la Villette station, which is located near the entrance to Parc de la Villette.
Description: Parc de la Villette is a sprawling urban park in northeastern Paris, known for its avant-garde architecture, green spaces, and cultural attractions. One of the park’s highlights is the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the largest science museum in Europe, which offers interactive exhibits and educational activities for visitors of all ages.
Activities: Families can spend hours exploring Parc de la Villette and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, which feature attractions such as the Geode, a giant spherical cinema, the Argonauts submarine, and the Explora interactive science center. We enjoyed hands-on experiments, immersive planetarium shows, and outdoor play areas that sparked our children’s curiosity and creativity.
Service: The park and museum staff were friendly and attentive, providing assistance and information to ensure a pleasant visit for families. We appreciated the park’s clean and well-maintained facilities, as well as the availability of dining options and picnic areas for a leisurely lunch.
Recommendation: Parc de la Villette and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie offer a unique blend of nature, culture, and education that appeals to families seeking a day of exploration and discovery. Consider purchasing a combined ticket to access multiple attractions within the park and plan your visit to coincide with special events or exhibitions.
Cruising the Seine River with Bateaux Parisiens
Location: Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris
Arrival: We walked to the Port de la Bourdonnais, located near the Eiffel Tower, from our hotel in central Paris.
Description: A scenic cruise along the Seine River with Bateaux Parisiens offers families a unique perspective of Paris’s iconic landmarks and monuments. From the comfort of a glass-enclosed boat, we sailed past Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Louvre Museum, while an audio guide provided fascinating insights into the city’s history and architecture.
Activities: The Seine River cruise is a relaxing and educational experience for families, with onboard amenities such as refreshments, restrooms, and outdoor viewing decks. We enjoyed spotting famous landmarks and taking photos against the backdrop of Paris’s skyline, creating lasting memories of our time together.
Service: The staff aboard the Bateaux Parisiens were professional and courteous, providing excellent service throughout the cruise. We appreciated the informative commentary available in multiple languages, as well as the comfortable seating and unobstructed views from the boat.
Recommendation: A Seine River cruise with Bateaux Parisiens is a delightful way for families to experience the beauty and charm of Paris from a different perspective. Book tickets in advance to secure your preferred departure time and consider upgrading to a dinner cruise for an unforgettable evening on the water.
Discovering the Treasures of the Louvre Museum
Location: Musée du Louvre, Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Arrival: We took the metro to the Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre station, which is located near the entrance to the Louvre Museum.
Description: As one of the world’s largest and most visited museums, the Louvre is a treasure trove of art and history that offers something for everyone in the family. From ancient artifacts and iconic sculptures to world-renowned paintings like the Mona Lisa, the museum’s vast collection spans thousands of years of human creativity and culture.
Activities: Families can embark on a self-guided tour of the Louvre, exploring its diverse galleries and exhibitions at their own pace. We focused on kid-friendly highlights like the Egyptian antiquities, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Napoleon III Apartments, which sparked our children’s curiosity and imagination.
Service: While the Louvre can be overwhelming due to its sheer size and popularity, we found the museum staff to be helpful and knowledgeable, providing assistance and information when needed. The museum also offers family-oriented amenities such as guided tours, activity booklets, and workshops designed to engage young visitors.
Recommendation: A visit to the Louvre Museum is a cultural experience that families should not miss when in Paris. To make the most of your visit, plan ahead by researching the museum’s highlights and purchasing tickets online to avoid long queues.
Playing at Jardin du Luxembourg
Location: 75006 Paris
Arrival: We took the metro to the Odéon station and walked a short distance to the entrance of Jardin du Luxembourg.
Description: Jardin du Luxembourg is a picturesque oasis in the heart of Paris, offering families a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park features lush green lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and a charming pond where children can sail toy boats. We spent a leisurely afternoon exploring the manicured gardens, playing on the playgrounds, and admiring the statues and fountains scattered throughout the park.
Activities: Families can enjoy a variety of activities at Jardin du Luxembourg, including pony rides, puppet shows, and mini-golf. We rented a traditional wooden sailboat and took turns navigating it across the pond, a delightful experience that brought out the child in all of us.
Service: The park attendants at Jardin du Luxembourg were friendly and helpful, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families. We appreciated the cleanliness of the park and the availability of amenities such as restrooms, snack kiosks, and seating areas.
Recommendation: Jardin du Luxembourg is a charming destination for families seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation in Paris. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day soaking up the sunshine while the children play and explore the park’s many attractions.
Creating Memories at Parc Zoologique de Paris
Location: Route de Ceinture du Lac Daumesnil, 75012 Paris
Arrival: We took the metro to the Porte Dorée station and followed the signs to the entrance of Parc Zoologique de Paris.
Description: Parc Zoologique de Paris, also known as the Paris Zoo, is a modern zoological park that offers families the opportunity to discover a diverse range of animal species from around the world. We marveled at majestic lions, playful monkeys, and colorful birds as we explored the zoo’s themed habitats, including the African Savannah, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Madagascar Trail.
Activities: The Paris Zoo offers a variety of educational activities and interactive exhibits for families, including animal feedings, keeper talks, and conservation workshops. We participated in a guided tour led by knowledgeable zookeepers, who shared fascinating facts about the animals and their habitats.
Service: The staff at Parc Zoologique de Paris were passionate about conservation and animal welfare, providing excellent care for the resident animals and engaging visitors with informative presentations and hands-on experiences. We appreciated the park’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the cleanliness of the facilities.
Recommendation: Parc Zoologique de Paris is a must-visit destination for families interested in wildlife conservation and education. Plan your visit to coincide with feeding times and special events, and consider purchasing a zoo pass for unlimited access to the park’s attractions.
Experiencing the Magic of Parc Astérix
Location: 60128 Plailly, France
Arrival: We booked a shuttle service from central Paris to Parc Astérix, which provided convenient transportation to and from the theme park.
Description: Parc Astérix is a thrilling theme park inspired by the beloved comic book characters Asterix and Obelix, offering families an action-packed day of adventure and excitement. We explored different themed zones, including Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, and Viking Land, where we experienced thrilling rides, live shows, and interactive attractions that brought the world of Asterix to life.
Activities: Parc Astérix features a wide range of attractions suitable for families, from gentle rides and playgrounds for young children to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and water rides for older kids and adults. We enjoyed classic attractions like “Tonnerre de Zeus” and “OzIris,” as well as live performances by costumed characters and acrobats.
Service: The staff at Parc Astérix were friendly and efficient, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families. We appreciated the park’s attention to detail and theming, which added to the immersive atmosphere and provided entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Recommendation: Parc Astérix offers a unique and memorable day out for families visiting Paris, with its thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and lively entertainment. Purchase tickets in advance to save time and take advantage of package deals that include transportation and meals.
Paris is a city that truly caters to families, offering a wide range of kid-friendly activities and attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of Disneyland Paris, discovering the treasures of the Louvre Museum, or enjoying a leisurely picnic in one of the city’s beautiful parks, Paris offers endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. With careful planning and an open mind, you can create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in the City of Light that will last a lifetime.
