Paris with Kids – The Best Things to Do

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The Best Family Tours in Paris

people riding bikes down a street

The 29 Best Things to Do with Kids in Paris

    1. The Eiffel Tower

    a man and a woman standing next to each other Children enjoy visiting the Eiffel Tower tremendously. You`ll need to decide whether using the stairs or taking the elevator is preferable. I prefer utilizing the stairs as the lines tend to be shorter, it costs less, and you gain a stronger understanding of the structure`s framework. The stairs are adequately wide to allow more nimble visitors to effortlessly pass families resting. However, stairs only enable reaching the second level. To access the third level (the topmost part), you can either take the elevator all the way up or climb stairs to the second level and then employ an elevator to the top. The queue for the elevator on the second level is typically not as long as on the ground floor but may still take approximately 45 minutes. You can purchase tickets nearly 4 months in advance (and skip waiting in line). The website often indicates tickets have sold out but if you keep checking back there`s a possibility of additional tickets usually being released right up until the day prior. If you are unable to obtain advance tickets, consider going at night since lines tend to be shorter. If possible visit when skies are clear; you can see as far as Chartes cathedral 80km away. Yet even on a gloomy day, nothing is more mystifying than seeing the tower disappear into low hanging misty clouds. It gets very breezy up there and cold, so come prepared. Visiting towards the end of your Paris visit may also be a good idea as children will recognize different landmarks from around the city. There aren`t many shops near the Eiffel Tower so if you want to picnic on the grass surrounding the tower then purchase provisions beforehand. In winter there is an ice skating rink on the first floor. The two restaurants are both family-friendly but reservations need to be made well in advance on the website. There`s a small playground and carousel at the south end of the Champ-de-Mars. The finest view of the Eiffel Tower is from across the Seine at the Trocadéro.
    Hours: Daily from 10:30am to 5:15pm (5:30pm mid-September to mid-October).
    Nearest Subway Stations: Bir Hakeim or Trocadéro).

    2. Louvre Museum

    a large group of people standing in front of a painting The biggest challenge at the Louvre is limiting your selection and planning ahead. It could take weeks to view everything there. Pick out one or a few artworks in advance, research their histories, discuss them together with younger companions, and then look for them when visiting. ( The Raft of the Medusa is my preferred piece in the Louvre and tells an incredible tale regarding a shipwreck that will certainly fascinate any child.) Obtaining picture postcards of intriguing artworks in advance and then searching for them is also an enjoyable activity. Younger companions enjoy that audio guides are available on a Nintendo 3DS. There are Visitor Trails centered around specific themes that you can print ahead of time and will guide you exploring the museum seeking different artworks. The building itself is worth time to experience and learn its history Hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm on Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and 9:00am to 9:45pm on Wednesday and Friday. Closed on Tuesdays Handiest Metro Stations: Palais-Royal-Musée du Louvre or Louvre–Rivoli).

    3. Notre Dame Cathedral

    a large building with a clock on the side of itUpdate: Access is closed because of the fire but this scenic tour of the Île de la CรŽtรฉ and region is a great way to learn the history of the Notre Dame.
    A remarkably impressive building. It`s easy to spend a few hours walking around both inside and outside the church studying the carvings, artwork, gothic architecture, and intricate facade depicting biblical characters. Over 800 years old, this Gothic masterpiece sits above a Roman temple. During the Revolution, it was used as a stable, in 1804 Napoleon crowned himself here, and shots rang out during the mass celebrating the 1944 Liberation. Begin your tour of Paris at this site (it forms the core of much of Paris history) and get the most from the visit by watching Disney`s Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) to give the children a genuine feel for Paris in the Middle Ages. Point out the easily recognizable carvings of Biblical characters on the façade and the chancel screen encircling the center of the church telling the story of Jesus in a medieval cartoon style. It`s an active cathedral so children need to show respect, but as entry is free you can simply pop in for a few minutes, and then climb the towers to get a close look at the carvings and explore Quasimodo`s world. Don`t miss the Crypte Archéologique at the entrance of the square in front of Notre Dame. Here you can see the remains of the Paris that Asterix would recognize – the Roman city of Lutetia. There is a lovely playground behind the cathedral with magnificent views across the Seine. In winter go ice skating in front of the nearby Hotel de Ville and in summer enjoy the fun at Paris-Plages when the main road on the Right Bank is transformed into a beach. Eat ice cream at Berthillon (closed August) or croissants at Boulangerie St Martin across the street Hours: 8:00am to 6:45pm Monday to Friday; 8:00am to 7:15pm Saturday and Sunday.
    Closest Métro: Cité.

    4. Sacre Coeur

    a large group of people walking down a street Perched on the top of Montmartre hill with incredible views of Paris from both the 423-foot high dome and the steps in front of the basilica. The surrounding neighborhood features a collection of charming streets, shops, and restaurants. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon exploring the area. There’s a funicular tram to take you up to the Sacre Coeur if the steps are too much. Parisians have mixed feelings about the sparkly white basilica of Sacre Coeur. It was built to celebrate the end of the Paris Commune in 1871, which was born and brought down in Montmartre. As a result, it is a highly conservative building with some very nationalistic symbols. Look for Joan of Arc and King Louis IX on the front. You can climb to the top of the dome but the view from the hilltop is splendid enough. Be aware that there is a continual mass inside the cathedral and silence is the rule. The gardens in front have a beautiful old carousel at the bottom. There is also a lovely little park behind Sacre Coeur. This is a beautiful spot for a family evening stroll when the crowds have gone home and Sacre Coeur is lit by the moonlight. The haunt of some of the greatest artists Place du Tertre is now a tourist knickknack heaven (and a short walk from the basilica), so ideal for kids who love keyrings and fridge magnets. Older kids will enjoy the Espace Dali that has an interesting collection of works by the surrealist Salvador Dali. On Rue St Vincent you can see the Montmartre vineyard (the harvest celebrations take place in autumn). Away from the crowds, cool off in Square Suzzane Buisson on Rue Giradon. A statue of Saint Denis, who was martyred here and gave the area its name, sits in the center of the square. Walk back down Rue Lepic, which has two of the many windmills that once dotted the hill and lots of interesting shops and cafes. It takes you to Métro Abesses, the deepest in the city.
    Hours: Daily 6:00am to 10:30pm.
    Closest Métro: Abbesses

    5. Arc de Triomphe

    a large building with a clock on it The Arc de Triomphe affords splendid views of notable Parisian landmarks both during the day and evening hours. These sights include the iconic Eiffel Tower and the prestigious Champs-Elysees boulevard extending outward from the arch. Visitors must climb a tight, winding stone staircase with no elevator to reach the top terrace, presenting commanding perspectives. Napoleon Bonaparte celebrated his victory over Russian and Austrian forces at Austerlitz in 1805 by constructing this monumental triumphal arch. Originally situated on the outskirts of Paris, it has since been surrounded by urban development. Conquering and freed troops have traditionally marched beneath it, and the annual July 14 military parade takes place here. After climbing to observe the vistas, the ideal time to tour is just before dusk when it stands along an axis connecting the Louvre museum to the newer arch at La Défense to the west. Its architectural features such as portrayals of Napoleon`s title and military accomplishments should also be admired. Inside are inscribed the names of his generals, with those who died underlined as remembrance. A northern frieze depicts his forces breaking lake ice to drown thousands of opponents. Beneath lies the crypt of the anonymous soldier containing the remains of one of 1.3 million Frenchmen lost in World War I. A nightly ceremonial relighting occurs at 6:30pm to maintain the eternal flame. Nearby, the elegant belle époque tearoom Ladurée on Champs-Elysees serves the city`s finest macarons. A stroll through the verdant Jardins des Champs Elysées and across the stunning Pont Alexandre III bridge featured in the animated film Anastasia (1997) make for pleasant follow-ups Hours: Daily 10:00am to 11:00pm from April to September; 10:00am to 10:30pm from October to March.
    Closest Métros: Kléber or Argentine

    6. Natural History Museum

    elephants that are in a circus This park located in eastern central Paris (Jardin des Plantes) was designed in 1626 as a garden focused on medicinal plants. Within the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, The Grande Galerie de l’Evolution (pictured above) depicts a broad assortment of creatures and highlights the diversity and progression of life. The museum contains much to see (my children really enjoyed the butterfly display) and can easily fill 3 or 4 hours. Nearby, the Galeries de Paléontologie et d’Antatomie features a fascinating historically styled collection of skeletons. Additionally within the park is the Ménagerie – the oldest public zoo on the planet. It opened in 1793 following the Revolution when the final surviving animals from the King’s private zoo at Versailles were brought here. The third giraffe ever to set foot in Europe moved here in 1826. It is a small and intimate zoo, classically Parisian in feeling, and small children love it, even if it does not have the large safari animals. Madeline yelled at a lion here in the beloved children`s classic by Ludwig Bemelmans. When you`re finished exploring the park head for Rue Mouffetard. It’s a cobbled street that was once a Roman road. Mouths will water at the tasty variety of cakes, cheeses, and ice cream shops and there are plenty of cafes to relax in. The Mosquée de Paris opposite the Natural History Museum has an eastern café where you can taste the North African influence on France.
    Hours: Gardens: Open daily from 7:30am to 8:00pm in summer and from 8:00am to 5:30pm in winter. Museum: Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm; closed Tuesdays.
    Closest Métro: Gare-d’-Austerlitz-Noct

    7. Paris Catacombs

    a large group of black and white birds hanging from a rope Underneath the ground in Paris, there is an extensive network of tunnels and natural caves that resemble the holes in a wheel of Swiss cheese if the limestone rock was cut through. In the past, there were many underground mushroom farms, and there are still large stacks of gold bars kept under the Bank of France. The tunnels known as Les Catacombes house the skeletons of six million Parisians who used to live in the city. This attraction provides insight into the history of Paris. In the late 1700s, the cemeteries were breeding diseases and illnesses, so the graves were emptied and the bodies were stored below the city in the Catacombs. There are six million skulls and skeletons of victims from the plague, French Revolution, and guillotine. Among the deceased were revolutionaries Danton and Robespierre as well as fairy tale storytellers Jean de la Fontaine and Charles Perrault. The bones are arranged in eerie patterns and a spiral staircase leads down to this strange underworld. While it may sound ghastly, most kids are not frightened by the sight. A big warning here is the long wait times, which can range from one hour to four hours, so arrive early and bring snacks. (There is a McDonald`s and grocery store nearby if the kids get hungry – one parent can stay in line). It tends to be busiest on rainy days. Kids also love checking out the smelly sewers, Les Egouts. They were featured in Victor Hugo`s Les Misérables and the 2007 cartoon Ratauoille. They were constructed by Baron Haussmann when he rebuilt the city in the 1850s. The sewers run parallel to the streets above in a bizarre underworld. Tours are conducted on foot in the area of Quai d`Orsay Hours: Daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm; closed Mondays. Last entrance 4:00pm.
    Nearest Subways: To Les Catacombes: Denfert-Rochereau. To Les Egouts: Alma Marceau).

    8. Pompidou Centre

    a building with a clock mounted to the side of it The Pompidou Center has its mechanical systems and staircases displayed on the exterior of the building. Water pipes are shown as green, air conditioning ducts as blue, and electric cables as yellow. The building is named after Georges Pompidou, who served as President of France from 1969 to 1974. He appreciated all things modern and this unusual structure designed by Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano stands as part of his legacy, along with the motorway running alongside the Right Bank of Paris. Taking the staircases to the roof allows for beautiful views across the city. Inside is a magnificent contemporary art gallery. What is best for children is the permanent exhibition focusing on art made between 1905 and 1960. This collection includes works by Chagall who created illustrations for the fables written by Jean de la Fontaine. You can purchase the book in the bookshop which has a great selection of children`s literature. In addition to highbrow offerings, there is the interactive Galarie des Enfants aimed at kids, and a junior cinema sometimes screening films in English. Children enjoy the street theater in the square in front of the Pompidou Center. It`s a pedestrian area perfect for letting kids expend energy. Good kid-friendly cafes are near the adjacent Stravinsky Fountain with its enchanting mechanical sculptures.
    Operating Hours: Daily from 11:00 am until 10:00pm; closed on Tuesdays.
    Closest Métro: Rambuteau

    9. Luxembourg Gardens

    people sitting in front of a large building The park contained many pleasant attractions that would delight both children and adults such as a sizable playground, a picturesque pond for boating tiny wooden vessels, a marionette theater presenting puppet shows throughout the summer afternoons, and an antiquated carousel crafted by the distinguished Charles Garnier who also designed the renowned Opéra. One must be cautious of the mounting expenses here as most diversions require payment – even the playground. Exploring this location offers insight into what aspects of urban living individuals could overlook without young ones. It is the place to discover the privileged upbringing of Parisian youth. Similar to being duplicated cross various French-speaking regions, the park adorned with elderly playing chess under the trees may seem strangely familiar even to initial visitors owing to its replicated design. The impecunious parent Ernest Hemmingway used to wheel his son around the park in his pram, and when the patrol wasn`t surveying, he would lure over a pigeon with some grains swiftly, strangle it, and carry it back for cooking. Nearby Rue Vavin showcases highly stylish children`s boutiques, and it is a brief stroll to Tour de Montparnasse providing incredible perspectives of Paris. The Marché Edgar Quinet zone is where to consume crêpes.
    ` Operating Hours: Open daily in summer from 7:00am until dusk and in winter from 8:00am until dusk.
    Closest Métro: Odéon.

    10. The Conciergerie

    a large building with a clock on top of it Young children feel drawn to the fairytale-like towers of the Conciergerie rising from the banks of the Seine on the Ile de la Cité. This is all that remains of the royal palace constructed in 1300. When the monarchs relocated to the Louvre, it became an infamous detention center run by a steward, the concierge. Following the Revolution, thousands of inmates were kept here ahead of being led to the guillotine, amongst them Marie Antoinette. Before departing, give the kids a brief outline of what occurred during the French Revolution in 1789 as no descriptions aimed toward children can be found here. There is a cartoon rendition of Dickens’ Tale of Two Cities set amid London and Paris during the revolution (2002). Within, point out the tremendous vaulted ceilings of the largest surviving medieval hall in Europe, the gruesome cells will appeal, as does the miniature of Marie Antoinette in the chapel. If the weather is sunny, pop into Sainte Chapelle when the magnificent stained glass windows glow in daylight. They tell the story of the bible in a simple way easily comprehensible for kids. Both structures remain component parts of the complex comprising the Palais du Justice. Cool off in the Place Dauphine, where people can often be seen enjoying boules. Have a picnic in Square du Vert Galant, a magical spot looking westward up the Seine and situated just below the Pont Neuf. You can sail away on a tourist cruise along the Seine after lunch, shudder at the thought that the Vikings once sailed downstream the Seine.
    Hours: Open daily from 9:30am to 6:00pm.
    Closest Métro: Cité.

    11. Paris By Mouth Food Tours

    a woman standing in front of a display of donutsFor ages 10 and older only. I cannot recommend these tours highly enough. They are so much fun. While they’re not designed with families in mind, if your kids are into trying some new things, they’re a great introduction to Paris food and culture. The primary food stops are cheese, chocolate, and pastries – pretty kid-friendly. After walking around a Paris neighborhood collecting snacks and visiting small specialty stores the tours stop at a wine shop (juice for the kids) and a warm friendly picnic takes place with lots of stories and explanations of where the food originates from and how it got made. The tours are especially helpful if you do them at the beginning of your stay as you’ll get loads of tips and recommendations on where to eat, shop, and explore. The guides are simply wonderful. Tours fill up about 2 to 3 weeks in advance so book before arriving Hours: Tours are usually offered daily in the morning and afternoon.
    Closest Métros: The metro stations that are nearby depend on which tour is booked).

    12. Fat Tire Bike Tours

    a large group of people riding bikes down a street This is a very enjoyable tour around the central attractions of Paris. The tours start from the main office of Fat Tire (near the Eiffel Tower) where riders are fitted with bicycles. You stop and have lunch (not included) in the gardens near the Louvre. The guides offer brief, thoughtful, and frequently amusing historical descriptions along the route. The ride lasts just over 4 hours (but goes really quickly it`s so fun) and involves cycling about 4 or 5 miles with very few hills. Fat Tire also offers a Versailles tour (visit a market, picnic on the palace grounds, skip the line for Versailles – highly recommended) and a Paris night tour (which involves more riding than the day tour so probably better for older children). 20′′ and 24′′ kids bikes are available but need to be reserved in advance Guided tours are typically available daily at 11:00am.
    Closest Métros: The metro stations that are nearby depend on which tour is booked).

    13. Jardin des Tuilleries

    a city with tall buildings and a clock tower The park dates back to the 17th century and was once attached to the Palais des Tuileries, which was burned down in 1871 by an outraged crowd. It stood where the Arc du Carrousel currently stands in front of the Louvre. According to the story, Charles Perrault, the author of the fairy tales Sleeping Beauty and Puss in Boots, persuaded Louis XIV to open the royal gardens to the public. It has a boating pond, two playgrounds, and a carousel. It also contains a good traditional restaurant with outdoor tables, Café Renard. In summer there is a carnival. At the opposite end of the park from the Louvre is Place de la Concorde. The guillotine was located here, and from 1792 to 1794 the square literally ran red with blood. The obelisk in the center is 3,200 years old and was a gift from the Pasha of Egypt in 1829. In return, he was given a clock that never functioned. The square looks its best after dark when the views are magical. If you fancy a real treat, the family-friendly Hotel Crillon is a popular spot for Sunday brunch. Angelina, 226 Rue de Rivoli, is a 19th-century tea room known for its hot chocolate.
    Hours: Daily from 7:30am to 7:00pm for most of the year. Open until 9:00 pm in April, May, and September and until 11:00 pm in July and August.
    Closest Métros: Palais-Royal-Musée-du-Louvre, Concorde, or Tuileries).

    14. Musée d’Orsay

    a clock that is on the side of a building Across the river from the Tuileries is among the city’s finest art museums, the Musée d’Orsay. Art galleries in France are prepared for kids, and at the age of three, they are occupied copying Matisse in the classroom. Kids are impressed by the impressionists’ and the post-impressionists’ love of hue and light. To top it off, the museum is in an old railway station; point out the old station clock. Show them the Van Gogh paintings, the works of Matisse, the dotty, pointillist pictures by Seurat and Signac, and Degas’ ballet scenes. To get the best out of the trip, introduce the kids to some of the lives of the great painters like Van Gogh before you go. Now it’s time for a treat. Debauve & Gallais is the city’s oldest chocolate shop; they once made sweets for Marie Antoinette. Eric Kayser, 18 Rue de Bac, is a great bakery and a good stop for lunch.
    Hours: Open from 9:30am to 6:00pm Tuesday to Sunday; closes at 9:45pm on Thursdays.
    Closest Métro: Solférino.

    15. Army Museum & Hôtel des Invalides

    a sculpture of a surfboard in front of a fountain Housed in the principal building of the Hôtel des Invalides (constructed by Louis XIV to house injured soldiers) the Musee de l’Armee possesses an extraordinary collection of military weapons. The chambers dedicated to the 20th century are particularly interesting for older children. Napolean’s tomb sits in Eglise du Dôme at the core of the huge complex. Make this trip towards the conclusion of your time in Paris as by now the kids should have heard of Napoleon and this is where the great man is entombed. He lies under a gilded dome that dominates the skyline. He perished in exile but was to be granted a state funeral and a heroic return in 1840. His remains lie inside six coffins. The French are proud of his reforms and state restructuring as well as of his military accomplishments. The Hôtel des Invalides was built as an army hospital by the war-driven Louis XIV. For time away from tourism, head south to the little playground on the tree-lined Avenue de Breteuil. For something unusual go to Rue de Bac and check out Deyrolle, at No 46; this taxidermist has been stuffing animals since 1831.
    Hours: Daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm from April to October and from 10:00am to 5:00pm from November to March.
    Nearest Metro Stops: Varenne, École Militaire, or La Tour-Maubourg).

    16. Cité des Sciences and Cité des Enfants

    a room that has a lot of decorations on the walls Hands-on fun at Cité des Enfants. There are 2 sections: one for kids aged 2 to 7 and one for kids aged 5 to 12. Your ticket is valid for 90 minutes and you can do both separately. It’s highly advised to purchase tickets online in advance. The Cité des Sciences is meant for older children and adults, has a lot of content in French with an English audio guide available, and also has a planetarium.
    Hours: Open 10:00am to 6:00pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 10:00am to 7:00pm Sunday. Closed Tuesday.
    Nearest subway stations: Porte de la Villette or Corentin Cariou).

    17. Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

    a crowd of people walking down a city street My preferred bookshop in Paris sits only across from Notre Dame. It’s an amazing and enchanting store that is larger than its outside appearance indicates. There are children’s readings intermingled among the regular stream of literary happenings.
    Hours: Open Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 11:00pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am to 11:00pm.
    Nearest Metro stations: Saint-Michel Notre-Dame or Cluny-La Sorbonne).

    18. The Panthéon

    a large building with a clock on top of it The immense size of the building will seriously impress the children. What comes next is the intriguing reality that this cathedral-like construction is not a place to worship God but rather the heroes of France. Louis IV aimed for it to be a church but they went out of fashion during the Revolution and the Pantheon became a temple of reason. The historic murals provide a rapid course in French history. Point out the giant pendulum that dangles from the ceiling as this was where Leon Foucault carried out his experiments in the 19th century to demonstrate the earth rotated on its axis. In the crypt, you can see the final resting spots of the great and good including the queen of radioactivity, Marie Curie. You can visit her laboratory which is just around the corner on Rue Pierre et Marie Curie. Before departing, climb the dome for some spectacular views of Paris. The Pantheon is next to one of the best schools in Paris, the Lycée Henri IV. Next stop, travel back in time. On nearby Rue Monge is the Arènes de Lutèce. It was one of the Romans’ biggest amphitheaters and could seat 15,000 people. Be sure to bring a ball and kick about gladiator style in the arena. There is also a playground.
    Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
    Nearest Metros: Maubert Mutualité or Cardinal Lemoine).

    19. Musée Grévin

    a man with a beard and glasses is smoking a cigarette The Musée Grévin, founded in 1882, allows visitors to view wax figures resembling famous kings, queens, and celebrities from history and entertainment that were created to give readers of a newspaper cartoonist`s work a better visual understanding of his stories. While admission is costly, it provides a respite from other cultural sites and is housed in a magnificent late 19th century building. Queues tend to be shortest around lunchtime, though reserving tickets in advance on the website saves the most time. The tour begins in the Palais des Mirages, a spectacular sound and light show created for the 1900 World`s Fair that is visually stunning yet plunges guests into darkness just before starting, so small children who may get scared should be picked up or warned in advance. The historically accurate wax scenes effectively bring the past to life for kids once they learn about the people and time periods depicted. Notable figures from entertainment can then be encountered. The museum feels more authentic than London`s Madame Tussauds. Nearby are Les Passages, the world`s first indoor shopping markets. Passage Jouffroy has good cafes and special shops while the Passage des Princes is dominated by a huge toy retailer. A La Mere de la Famille candy store at 35 Rue Faubourg Montmartre has offered wonderful sweets since 1761. Stop for a beverage on the rooftop terrace at Printemps department store, which has magnificent views across the rooftops and the Opéra opera house.
    Strongly: Daily hours vary; check their website for current operating times.
    Closest Métros: Grands Boulevards or Richlieu-Drouot).

    20. Musée Jacquemart-Andre

    a painting of a man and a dog in a room The 8th district of Paris was developed during the latter half of the 19th century, and wealthy and prominent individuals soon flocked to the area. Paris remained a city marked by revolution and divided between the affluent and impoverished. To grasp the anger that led to the 1871 Commune, visit here to admire the opulence and riches constructed by Eduoard Andre and his wife Nélie Jacquemart. The museum hosts family activities and an English activity book for children. It also boasts a wonderful cafe well-suited for a family brunch or afternoon tea. Then take a stroll through Parc Monceau (open from 7:00am to 8:00pm – or 10:00pm in summer) to experience life as a modern parent in this affluent part of Paris. A historical location, Proust used to enjoy walking here, and many of the communards met their end here in 1871. The children won`t worry about that and will delight in the sandbox and playground. If you want to picnic there are shops on Rue Prony opposite the park`s golden main gates. If accompanying older children, take a brief walk along to see the onion domes of St. Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral. In the 19th century, so many Russians resided in the city that the Tsarist secret police established a Paris branch.
    Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
    Closest Métro: Miromesnil.

    21. Palais de Chaillot

    a large fountain in the middle of a city The informal name for this place is Trocadéro. It provides the best vantage point to see the Eiffel Tower with its magnificent fountains, especially at night, but it is also home to some fascinating museums. There is a playground, carousel, and often street theater. The Palais was constructed in 1937 for the International Exhibition. The Musée de l’Homme houses an extraordinary collection of prehistoric artifacts. In the Musée de la Marine you can see Napoleon`s ceremonial boat. The Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine (open Wednesdays through Mondays from 11:00am to 7:00pm) exhibits scale models of some of France`s most famous structures. Nearby is the Palais de Tokyo (open Wednesdays through Mondays from noon to midnight) which has a family-friendly restaurant, a small art museum with sparse crowds, impressive works by renowned artists worldwide, and hosts trendy exhibitions. The Palais de Chaillot is also home to Cinéacqua (open daily from 10:00am to 7:00pm), a spectacular aquarium where films can be viewed, plus a restaurant with a massive aquarium.
    Operating Hours: Times vary for each attraction; check the website for detailed info.
    Closest Métro: Trocadéro.

    22. Musée du Quai Branly

    a statue of an elephant is displayed in a museum This is Paris’s ethnographic museum, hosting a remarkable collection of items from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. It opened almost ten years ago and is striking for the unique way in which the exhibits are displayed, using film and music to engage children. For a more relaxing museum experience, visiting late in the day after school hours is recommended, as it has subtle lighting and one can sit down to watch the moving exhibits. There is an English activity book on the website that can be downloaded and an iPhone app. Among the treasures are items brought back by the Citroën team, who drove across Asia in 1931. The museum was President Jaques Chirac’s legacy to the nation and draws on France’s rich tradition of anthropology and ethnography. The museum has a modern garden, and in summer there are events for kids. The museum café has outdoor tables, and in good weather, one can picnic here with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
    Hours: Museum: Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30am to 7:00pm (Thursday until 10:00). Closed on Monday.
    Closest Métros: Iéna or Alma Marceau.

    23. Les Guignols

    a painting of a woman holding a christmas tree Les Guignols hold a key role in any Parisian youth and have for hundreds of years. Guignol is a marionette akin to Punch. He was designed by a dentist just after the Revolution to divert patients having teeth extracted. The puppet shows have changed little through the years and can be found in the city’s parks. Though in French, the actions require little clarification and easily crosses the language barrier. Performances usually take place on Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday afternoons, when there is no school.
    • Guignol du Jardin d’Acclimatation, Bois de Boulogne
    • Guignol au Parc Floral, Bois de Vincennes
    • “• The Guignol puppet theater of Paris, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
    .” • Another hotel option is the Aeolos Guesthouse
    •

  • Best Romantic Dining:Stou Fred in Parikia.

    • • Théâtre des Marionettes de Paris, Orée du Bois de Vincennes
    Hours: Varies by location.
    Closest Métro: Varies by location.

    24. Musée des Arts et Métiers

    an aerial view of a building with a clock on it This museum documenting innovations was set up soon after the revolution in 1794, and keeping with the spirit of the times it`s situated in an old abbey. See Foucault`s pendulum swinging and the Théâtre des Automates in motion; these mechanical toys once belonged to Marie Antoinette. Additionally on display is the laboratory of the founder of modern science, Lavosier, an 1897 plane motivated by a bat, and the initial calculator created in 1642. Off the tourist track, this museum doesn`t have long lines and also has a pleasant courtyard cafe in summer. Be sure to point out the date Year III engraved over the entrance. The revolutionaries presented a new calendar and Year III was 1794. Harry Potter fanatics will love Paris`s oldest house, 51 Rue de Montmorency. It was the home of the alchemist Nicolas Flamel, a friend of Dumbledore in the story. Playtime is to be had nearby Square du Temple, once the stronghold of the Knights Templar. La Maison Stohrer is one of the most established patisseries in Paris and is a brief walk away on 51 Rue Montorgueil. Set up in 1725, they once created cakes for the monarchs of France.
    Hours: Open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:00am to 6:00pm (until 9:30pm on Thursdays). Closed on Mondays.
    Closest Métro: Arts et Métiers.

    25. Jardin D’Acclimatation

    a statue of a man riding on the back of a train This recreational area located in the western section of Bois de Boulogne in Paris was opened by Emperor Napoleon III in the year 1860. Visitors can find farm animals there, an abundance of water sources for cooling off, and rides suitable for all age groups, such as a vintage carousel. The park still maintains an authentic belle époque atmosphere. La Maison de Kiso, an authentic Japanese peasant dwelling, was a gift from Japan in 1860, and the aviary dates back to the original design. Musical performances are presented at the theater on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays during afternoon hours, and there is also a puppet theater located in Napoleon III`s old stables. Young children especially enjoy the Rivière Enchantée (Enchanted River) which has been present since 1927. Fortunately, the human exhibition showcasing peoples of Africa closed down in 1912. The cost of ride tickets can quickly accumulate, so if you are watching your budget spend your time at the farm and playgrounds that are free with park admission. Bringing a picnic is recommended as food within the park is quite expensive. The area stays busy not only on weekends but also on Wednesday afternoons when junior schools release students for the day. It is worthwhile remembering this factor when planning kid-friendly activities throughout France. Cycling through the surrounding park is pleasant, and bicycle rentals are available near the Jardin d’Acclimatation, but be aware that Bois de Boulogne has areas known for unlawful behavior and serves as a meeting spot for prostitution in its more secluded southern sections.
    Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:00am to 7:00pm.
    Nearest Metro Stations: Les Sablons or Porte Maillot. A tourist train runs from Porte Maillot to the gardens).

    26. Parc de la Villette

    a train that is sitting on the tracks The old slaughterhouses in the northeast section of the city have been transformed into a futuristic recreational area that extends alongside the canalway. There are 10 thematic gardens that apply optics like mirrors and hazes, together with acrobatics, to generate enchanting play locales. This place offers numerous activities as well as concerts and gatherings so be sure to inspect the website when organizing your visit. Here is one of Europe`s most substantial science museums, the interactive and stimulating Cité des Sciences (open 10:00am to 6:00pm Tuesday through Sunday – try to avoid Wednesday afternoon when local schools dismiss), within which exists the Cité des Enfants. Here kids between ages 2-12 can roleplay as TV presenters and get acquainted with basic scientific principles in a hands-on manner. Entry is via time slots and during school holidays you must schedule ahead of time. Shows take place in the planetarium using English. The park is also home to L`Argonaunt, a 1930s submarine vessel, housing a marine exhibition, and La Philharmonie de Paris, holding a vast collection of instruments, performances, and kids` activities. You can watch 3D movies in the hemispheric La Géode and can pretend to be part of a movie scene in the tilting cinema La Cineaxe. You also get the chance to take a ride on a canal boat along the Canal d’Ourcq that was built by Napoleon to transport fresh water to the city. In summer this canalway and the adjacent Canal St. Martin are part of the Paris-Plages beach party fun festivities.
    Hours: Open daily; hours vary by attraction.
    Closest Metro Stations: To Porte de la Villette/Cité des Sciences: Porte de la Villette. To La Philharmonie de Paris: Porte de Pantin).

    27. Philharmonie de Paris

    a display case filled with lots of different types of instruments A remarkable museum that does not receive the notice it merits. You truly need to be a music enthusiast who plays an instrument to completely appreciate it. Great displays on instruments, composition, and the history of music. The audio guide is excellent and comes in English.
    Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 12:00pm to 6:00pm and on Sunday from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Closed Monday Closest Métros: Porte de Pantin.

    28. Street Performers

    a crowd of people walking down a street From the Champs-Élysées to Notre Dame Cathedral and within the metro stations, performers across Paris delight audiences. People watch freely without self-consciousness near impromptu street shows.

    29. Palace of Versailles Day Trip

    a large group of people in a large room This writer expresses their high recommendation for partaking in the bike tour around the Versailles grounds and palace offered by Fat Tire Bike Tour. The tour involves meeting the guide in Paris and traveling to Versailles, visiting a farmers` market, and having a picnic in the Versailles gardens. Children evidently enjoy this activity a great deal, and it provides an entertaining experience. Versailles represents a significant day trip outside of Paris, being 50 minutes away by train and then requiring a 15-minute walk from the Versailles Château Rive Gauche train station to reach the palace. Versailles offers a splendid combination of the superb palace construction and magnificent surrounding gardens. In 1661, Louis XIV decided to develop Europe’s largest palace. This conveys a great deal regarding his excessiveness but also his vulnerability. As a child, he had nearly lost his throne in an uprising by the nobles, so Versailles represented not simply a palace but essentially a prison for the nobility, who were expected to spend much time here so Louis could maintain surveillance over them. Up to 6,000 individuals resided here at once

    Versailles is a great day trip with kids as there is so much variety of what you can see and do. The gardens are extensive, so try to visit on a fine day. For a real treat, book tickets for the sound and light and firework shows. The palace shop sells a very useful guide My Little Versailles. The key thing you need to know as a parent is that Louis regarded himself as the Sun King. Point out the sun motifs to the kids and the fact that he had his bedroom in the center of the palace directly under the axis of the sun to drive home the point that he was the center of the world. This was also the home of his grandson Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette and where the mob invaded the palace in 1789 forcing them to return to Paris.

    Many of the rooms wouldn’t significantly interest children, so promptly head for the King’s Bedroom, where he was awakened by a troupe of courtiers who cleaned and dressed him. Next proceed to the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed concluding WWI, and the five-year-old King Louis XIV compelled his minister to lie down on the floor for an activity. Then, enter the Queen’s Bedroom where courtiers watched her give birth. Now exit to the gardens. They were equally important to Louis XIV, and he hired Andre Le Nôtre to drain the wetland and flatten the landscape. Louis held magnificent boating displays on the Grand Canal and had his own orangery. There are two mini-palaces where the royals escaped the pressure of everyday life, The Grand and the Petit Trianon. Kids will delight in the Hameau de la Reine, the pretend farm Marie Antoinette used as an escape. It takes 20 minutes on foot from the palace, but you can catch the mini-train or hire a bicycle or electric car. If wanting to buy a picnic, go initially to the bakery Boulangerie Guinon, that opened in 1802. There are also good eateries on the grounds. If having time, it is well worth staying a night in Versailles at the Trianon Palace, a fantastic kid-friendly hotel renowned for its Sunday brunch. It is especially good at Christmas, when Santa comes to call

    Spending the weekend will provide ample time to see exhibits like the equestrian show held in the former stables, stop by the tennis court, the Salle de Jeu de Paume where the revolution began, and tour the Potager du Roi containing exotic flora cultivated from France’s colonies. A final note on navigating the area: Strollers are suitable for exploring the Palace Gardens but cannot enter the palace interior. Extensive walking should be expected. Bicycle rentals are available near the train station and within the palace grounds. Rowboat rentals can also be found on the garden’s Grand Canal.

    A review of the Lyo Boutique Hotel in Mykonos along with a link to their website. Also included is a link to check prices for the hotel on Booking Nearest Metro Stations: Versailles Château Rive Gauche

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How To Get Around Paris with Kids

Public transportation in Paris includes buses, the Metro subway system, and suburban commuter rail.

The bus is the most scenic and easiest mode of transportation to board. The Metro and RER can require an unexpected amount of walking (both to access and move through the station) and a large number of steps if you`ve got a stroller.

The same passes are used for buses (in zone 1 and 2), the subway, and the RER (in zone 1) – these zones include most of the major visitor attractions but not Disneyland. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes with no restriction on the number of transfers. However, a single ticket cannot be used for both bus and train travel. Buses are boarded at the front, and tickets are validated by inserting them in a small machine. To enter a Metro or RER station, tickets are scanned as you pass through the turnstile. Entering with children under 4 can sometimes be tricky as there is no special entrance for families. You’ll sometimes have to catch the eye of the person staffing the ticket booth and get them to trigger you through.

Tickets for destinations outside of Paris, such as Versailles, were purchased as separate RER trips.

Kids 3 and under do not necessitate a ticket; ages 4 to 9 necessitate a child ticket, and 10 and over necessitate an adult ticket. Tickets can be acquired as a packet of 10 (a carnet).

a city bus is stopped at a bus stopa blue and white train stopped at a train stationa subway station with a train on the tracksa street sign on the side of a buildingtwo men standing in front of a vending machinepeople are sitting on a bus

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Best Places for Desserts & Treats in Paris

a person taking a bite out of a desserta bowl filled with fruit sitting on top of a bridgea table topped with lots of cupcakesa display case filled with cakes and pastriesa plate of food on a tablea cup of coffee sitting on top of a tablea display case filled with cakes and pastriesa display case filled with different types of cakesa table topped with lots of different types of doughnutsa display case filled with lots of different types of donutsdifferent types of frosted donuts on a tablea table topped with lots of different types of cakesa plate of food with a piece of cake on ita table topped with lots of different types of fruita table topped with lots of different types of hot dogsa display case filled with lots of different types of fruita display case filled with lots of doughnutsa white plate topped with a sandwich and a cup of coffee

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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