We absolutely love Paris! We’ve traveled with and without kids, for short trips and longer, and every time it’s magical. We have had a wonderful experience every time we’ve gone, despite it not typically being known as a family travel destination.
There is so much to enjoy on a family vacation to Paris that I’d definitely recommend at least 5 days in Paris. However, now that we’re living in London, it feels like a dream to be able to go just for a couple of days! If you can only spend two days in Paris, here’s everything we did on a weekend in Paris in January with kids in tow.
Paris Maps: Best Things To Do in Paris With Kids
See THIS MAP to view all the best sites for a Paris family vacation!
Tips for Paris Family Travel
What to Pack for Paris: Minimal Packing Essentials for Families
Packing for Paris depends on the season, but in general, you’ll want to focus on comfortable clothing, weather-appropriate layers, and essentials for walking-friendly days. For some specific ideas, see this post that details everything I wore for a trip to Paris with N, our oldest.
Especially with a big family, it’s important for us to pack minimally so we don’t feel totally overwhelmed when we travel. Here are some of our favorite minimal packing essentials for families!
- Merino Wool Base Layers, Socks, & Sweaters: Here are my favorite base layers to use as pajamas or to layer under clothing in cold weather. All our favorite merino wool base layers and wool socks for the whole family are linked HERE!
- Diaper Belt Bag: I absolutely love this little bag because it holds so much but is really compact and easy to wear with a variety of outfits. You can use the code PASSPORTFAM10 for 10% off.
- Packing Cubes: I love packing cubes for keeping things organized, contained, and compact. These are my favorite expandable packing cubes, and I also love these.
- Big carabiner – I always like hooking a big carabiner to our stroller to attach any purchases we make (and Paris very much lends itself to making purchases).
- Lightweight Women’s Pants: I absolutely adore these pants for travel because they’re SO comfortable, fold super small, and dry in a flash. More about why I love them HERE.
- Lightweight Packable Coat: I love this lightweight packable parka because it is really warm and good for layering, and folds into a bag a little bigger than a water bottle when not in use. My kids have also used these coats for years and they’re excellent because they fold up easily but are warm and layer well. They have a big line of them for the whole family.
- Shoes: I often only take one pair of shoes – either my favorite white sneakers or my beloved black Chelsea boots. More about both shoes HERE. For my kids, we really love Keen shoes because they’re durable and waterproof. For summer, we love these hiking sneakers. For winter, we love these boots or these waterproof hiking boot options.
- 40L Backpack: I love this kids backpacking backpack because it’s roomy, easily fits in most carry on requirements on airplanes, and fits really comfortably. (My 6 year old uses the smaller 18L version, and my 3 year old uses the even smaller 12L version.)
- Pop Up Tent Baby Bed: We’ve had this super lightweight baby travel bed for over a decade. We love it so much because it’s so lightweight and fits easily in a suitcase without having to take a bulky and heavy pack n play.
- Lightweight Folding Baby Carrier: I absolutely love this baby carrier because it’s supportive but still lightweight and weighs about a pound.
- Lightweight folding stroller – Paris is not the time to bring along a giant stroller. There are lots of narrow doorways, small tables, and crowded museums. I highly recommend a lightweight umbrella stroller.
- This is a great lightweight one that folds down easily.
- This lightweight umbrella stroller is really inexpensive and sturdy, although it does fold a little bigger than the others (folds in a line instead of accordion, so also doesn’t fit in an overhead compartment on an airplane).
For more packing ideas here’s what I packed for:
Where to Stay in Paris With Kids
Paris is divided into a series of 20 areas (arrondissements) that spiral outward from the center. In general, I love several of the single digit arrondissements, especially if it’s a relatively short Paris family trip. Here’s a full post on the best areas to stay in Paris for families.
If you’re wondering where is the best area of Paris with kids, here are some of my favorites:
- 1st Arrondissement: this is right in the center of things and near the Louvre. Easy to get to lots of activities, but fewer restaurant options and not as charming of a vibe.
- 2nd Arrondissement: the 2e is home to Rue Montorgueil, a charming pedestrian area with shops and food. It’s also the financial center of the city. It tends to be quieter but with great access to other parts of the city. If you’re wondering which arrondissement to stay in Paris with kids, this is a great choice if you want to be close to everything and quieter evenings.
- 3rd & 4th Arrondissements (Le Marais) – this is one of the most lively areas of Paris and centrally located to lots of activities. It has lots of great (and often inexpensive) food, shopping, green space, and is walkable to many museums and tourist sites.
- 6th Arrondissement (St-Germain-des-Pres) – this is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Paris. It’s historically the artsy student area, but has turned into a luxury district. It has excellent access to attractions like Luxembourg Gardens, is easily walkable to the big museums, and has terrific food and shopping.
- 18th Arrondissement (Montmartre) – while this is a bit further out of the center of the city, it’s a great option for families as it’s close to Sacre Coeur Basilica and the other attractions in the Montmartre neighborhood. It’s also well connected to the rest of the city and close to Gare du Nord if you’re taking the train to and from Paris, and tends to be quite a bit less expensive than staying in the center.
- 12th, 19th, & 20th Arrondissements – these are all further out of the heart of the city but close to bigger green spaces, like Bois de Vincennes, Parc de la Vilette, Pere Lachaise Cemetiere, etc. I’d recommend these areas if you’re spending a longer time in Paris (at least 5+ days).
How To Get Around Paris With Kids
Getting around Paris is easy and efficient, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. For most visitors, the Metro and walking is the easiest and most affordable combo. You can use RER (suburban trains) for day trips, and taxis only when necessary.
If you are traveling beyond Paris on a larger Europe trip, it might be best to rent your own vehicle for maximum flexibility.
And if you do end up needing to drive, here is a complete post about traveling with car seats. And here are our favorites by age:
- Favorite Infant Car Seat For Travel Available at: Amazon, Target, Walmart
- Favorite Convertible Car Seat For Travel Available at: Walmart
- Favorite Booster Restrain Vest For Travel Available at: RideSafer
- Favorite Booster Seat For Travel Available at: Amazon
What to Eat in Paris With Kids
Finding the best places to eat in Paris with kids can be a wonderful adventure – as long as you know where to look. In general, I find Paris restaurants to be very kid-friendly; most restaurants will be extremely accommodating and almost all have things like high chairs available. Bistros and brasseries tend to have more relaxed atmospheres and kid-friendly menus, such as Le Relais de l’Entrecôte for its famous steak-frites and Chez Janou for its lively ambiance and extensive dessert selection. Many cafes near parks, like Jardin du Luxembourg, provide outdoor seating and open spaces for kids to play. Don’t miss the chance to visit creperies, like Breizh Café, where the whole family can enjoy sweet and savory crepes. Additionally, exploring local markets such as Marché des Enfants Rouges can be a fun way for kids to try a variety of fresh, local foods in a casual setting.
Here are a few favorite spots to eat in Paris with kids:
- Breizh Cafe: their galettes are delish and the crepe with salted caramel sauce is top notch!
- L’As du Falafel or King Falafel: right by each other and both yummy.
- Chez Marianne: casual restaurant with a delicious selection of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean mezze plates.
- Le Petit Cler: charming bistro located near the Eiffel Tower.
- Bouillon République: there are a few locations around the city.
- Bo&Mie Boulangerie: great pastries and lots of quick lunch items, too.
- Cafe Varenne: cozy café in the 7th arrondissement with traditional French cuisine.
- Eggs and Co.: breakfast spot with a variety of delicious egg dishes.
And we love to stop by lots of chocolate shops and boulangeries along the way! Here are some of our favorites:
- Alain Ducasse: bean-to-bar chocolates perfect for chocolate connoisseurs (and gifts!).
- Jacques Genin: famous for caramels, ganaches, and some of the best mille-feuille in Paris.
- Du Pain et des Idees: a beloved artisan bakery known for its pistachio escargot pastry and perfectly flaky croissants.
- La Parisienne: best baguette in Paris and excellent pastries like buttery pains au chocolat.
- Stohrer: the oldest pastry shop in Paris, famous for its rum-soaked baba au rhum and regal French patisserie.
- A la Mere du Famille: charming 18th-century confectionery with handcrafted chocolates, nougats, and old-fashioned sweets.
- Poilane: a little bakery with the best sablés (butter cookies)!
Family Vacation in Paris: Best Places to See Around Paris
Day 1: Paris Itinerary
- Kid-friendly tour with Zoe Petit Paris
- Lunch at L’as du fallafel and/or King falafel
- Cooking class or cheese-making class
- Paris sunset photo shoot
To get acquainted with the city, I recommend kicking off your visit with a kid-friendly tour with Zoe Petit Paris. Guided tours are 2.5 hours and are specialized for families with adaptations based on the ages of the children. She even brings sketching supplies, bubbles and chalk to keep kids engaged. If you prefer, she also has downloadable self-guided tours here.
After exploring all morning, grab lunch at L’As du Falafel or King Falafel. They are right by each other and are both yummy!
Next, I’d recommend taking a cooking class or cheese-making class. This macaron baking class for families looks especially fun! Or try this chocolate making workshop or this French pastry class for all ages. And here’s a very highly rated cheesemaking workshop!
Round out your first day with a Paris sunset photo shoot! Here are some of the best spots in the city to catch sunset:
- Trocadéro (Eiffel Tower View): unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower as the sky turns golden (and stay for the lights to come on!).
- Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur: panoramic view of the city from the steps of Sacré-Cœur.
- Pont Alexandre III: views of the Eiffel Tower and Seine.
- Seine River Banks (Near Île de la Cité): capture the light reflecting off the river with Notre Dame as a backdrop.
- Palais de Chaillot: another fantastic vantage point across from the Eiffel Tower, with elegant architecture adding to the scene.
- Printemps Haussmann Rooftop Terrace: a lesser-known spot with a free panoramic view over Paris.
Or, hire a professional with flytographer! Click below to book a memorable family photo session!
Day 2: Paris Itinerary
- Louvre tour
- Angelina’s hot chocolate takeaway
- Pick up sandwiches and eat lunch in Tuileries gardens
- Musee de L’Orangerie
- Stop by Bibliotheque Nationale if you have time
- Dinner near Rue Richelieu
- See the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the evening from Place du Trocadero
Now that you have a better sense for the city, it’s time to hit some sites – starting with the iconic Louvre. It’s best to visit the Louvre early and to join a tour, especially for your first time. Be sure to book a tour that includes the Mona Lisa. Or, you can do the Louvre’s self-guided tour. Pro tip: enter through mall side unless Pyramid magically has short lines. You can also get a timed-entry ticket to skip the line, but I’d still recommend going early for smaller crowds.
Time for a treat! Stop by Angelina’s for their signature hot chocolate. Parisians line up for this special treat, with a blend of cocoa from Niger, Ghana and Ivory Coast. Next, grab some takeaway lunch and walk over to the Tuileries Garden for a lovely picnic. Be sure to stop at the carousel!
Located within the Tuileries Garden, the Musée de l’Orangerie is a must-visit in Paris, especially for art lovers! This museum houses Claude Monet’s famous Water Lilies and also features works by Cézanne, Renoir, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani. It’s also much smaller than the Louvre or d’Orsay (see day 5), so it makes for a great stop with kids.
If you still have some energy and daylight, make a stop by Bibliotheque Nationale. The Bibliothèque Nationale de France is the French national library with multiple locations, but you’ll be in the area of the Richelieu Library. The architecture is absolutely stunning and the free spaces are worth a wander.
Grab dinner nearby on or near Rue Richelieu, then head over to Place du Trocadero to see the Eiffel Tower all lit up. It’s one of the best things to do in Paris at night and the perfect way to top off the day!
Day 3: Paris Itinerary
- Notre Dame
- Sainte Chapelle
- Lunch + Berthillon ice cream
- Bike Tour or Bateaux Mouches river cruise
Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris and is a must-visit! The cathedral has been undergoing restoration since the devastating 2019 fire, but reopened in December 2024 for visitors to enjoy. There is so much to take in, from the Gothic architecture to the rose windows and beautiful sculptures. Be sure to visit the towers to get amazing views of the city.
Just a short walk from Notre Dame is Sainte-Chapelle , a stunning Gothic chapel with incredible stained-glass windows. The chapel was built by King Louis IX to house relics of Christ’s Passion and is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The lower chapel is also worth a look.
Grab some lunch and then head for Berthillon on Ile St Louis. This legendary shop has some of the best ice cream in Paris. Since the original shop can get quite busy, many nearby cafés also serve Berthillon ice cream – be sure to get some when you come across it!
For the afternoon, I recommend another tour that lets you explore the city a different way. If you want something more active, this bike tour focuses on charming, lesser-known gems and this one focuses on the city’s iconic treasures. Or get out on the water with this Bateaux Mouches Seine river cruise. You can relax on the deck while you take it all in!
Day 4: Paris Itinerary
- Go up the Eiffel Tower
- Jardin d’Acclimatation
Going up the Eiffel Tower is one of the most memorable experiences in Paris. You get to enjoy the most breathtaking views of the city from multiple levels. Take the stairs or elevators to the open-air viewing platforms on the first two levels. For the ultimate experience, the summit provides a stunning panoramic view, including landmarks like the Seine River, the Arc de Triomphe, and Montmartre. Since it’s a popular attraction, booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long lines.
For the afternoon, head to Paris’s historic amusement park, Jardin d’Acclimatation. There’s a mix of rides, playgrounds, and green spaces, so it’s a bit more low-key and enjoyable for families. Get lunch at the park and be sure to look for the interactive workshops for kids.
Day 5: Paris Itinerary
- Catacombs
- Pick up sandwiches
- Luxembourg Gardens – little boats, carousel
- Musee d’Orsay
- Walk along the Seine to see the different art vendors
- Breizh Cafe for dinner
Visiting the Catacombs of Paris can be a bit eerie, but it does offer a unique glimpse into the city’s underground history. The network of tunnels holds the remains of millions of Parisians after being moved from overcrowded cemeteries in the 18th century. The walk through the dimly lit corridors lined with neatly stacked bones is haunting and oddly fascinating. Tickets should be booked in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited, and it’s best to wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves stairs and uneven pathways.
You’ll likely be ready some fresh air after being underground. Grab some sandwiches and head to Luxembourg Gardens. This is one of the most beautiful and relaxing spots in Paris – perfect for a picnic and a stroll. There’s a lovely playground, but don’t miss the vintage carousel and the small pond where kids can sail toy boats.
After some play, head over to Musée d’Orsay, which is known for its incredible collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art – Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir, among many others. The museum is more manageable than the Louvre, making it a great option for families want to experience world-class art without feeling overwhelmed. The top floor offers a beautiful view of the Seine and Paris through the iconic clock window.
For a different art experience, walk along the Seine and visit the many art vendors. Get dinner at Breizh Cafe – the galettes are a favorite, but don’t miss dessert with salted caramel sauce!
Day 6: Paris Itinerary
- Montmartre/Sacre Coeur/Place du Tertre
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or stop by Petit Palais
- Wander the 6th arrondissement – La Grande Épicerie & Jacques Genin
Montmartre is one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Parisian charm.Be sure to stop at Sacré-Cœur, which has one of the best panoramic views of Paris—climbing to the top of the dome is well worth it for an even more spectacular sight. The Place du Tertre, just a short walk from the basilica, is the heart of Montmartre’s artistic soul, where painters and caricature artists set up their easels, making it a great spot to bring kids. The best way to explore is by foot, but the Montmartre funicular provides an easy ride up to Sacré-Cœur for those who prefer to skip the climb.
For a nice nature break, head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, one of Paris’s most beautiful and unique parks. There are winding paths, waterfalls, and peaceful lake, making it a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing escape from the busy city. Don’t miss the suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel.
Or, if you’re ready to hit another museum, head to The Petit Palais. This hidden gem offers free entry to its impressive collection of fine art. Built for the 1900 World’s Fair, its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture is as much a highlight as the artwork inside, which includes masterpieces by Monet, Rembrandt, and Courbet.
For a relaxed afternoon, head to the 6th arrondissement of Paris. Located on the Left Bank, it’s one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods There are tons of delicious cafes, boulangeries, chocolate shops, and patisseries. I recommend La Grande Épicerie a gourmet food emporium offering an incredible selection of cheese, patties and international treats. And for an extra special treat, visit the Jacques Genin boutique for handmade chocolates, caramels, and ganaches (and more!).
Day 7: Paris Itinerary
- Palace of Versailles
- Musee de l’Armee if you make it back in time
For trips longer than a few days, the Palace of Versailles is a fantastic day trip from Paris. Kids will especially love the Hall of Mirrors with shimmering chandeliers and gilded décor. The gardens are also perfect for kids to run around and explore, with fountains, sculptures, and even rowboat rentals on the Grand Canal for a fun outdoor activity. A highlight for families is Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, a village where children can see farm animals and charming cottages. Since Versailles is massive, it’s best to arrive early and wear comfortable shoes.
If you still have time after returning from Versailles, the Musée de l’Armée is a fascinating stop to deep dive into France’s military history. It’s best known as the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte, whose massive tomb sits beneath the golden dome of the Dôme des Invalides. The museum’s collection includes armor, weapons, uniforms, and artifacts from the Middle Ages to World War II. The museum is well-organized, allowing families to explore everything from Louis XIV’s battles to World War I and II strategies at their own pace.
Other Things To Do In Paris: Paris Hidden Gems
Obviously there’s PLENTY more to do in Paris! We’ve been a number of times and still have more on our list. If you have more time, here are some more options for things to do in Paris with kids including unique things to do in Paris:
- Petit Palais: an amazing FREE museum with a gorgeous garden. It has a mix of periods and styles and is rarely crowded.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A lovely park with a beautiful suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel and with plenty of green space.
- Pere Lachaise Cemetery: A beautiful place for a stroll
- La Grande Epicerie: the food hall at Le Bon Marche is epic and perfect whether you’re looking for gifts or just want to wander and gawk at the aisles of fancy yogurt and butter.
- Musee de la Musique: A bit of a hidden gem, nearly 1,000 instruments are on display in the permanent collection of this museum. The child audioguides and hands-on exhibits were excellent.
- Musee Carnavalet: Another FREE museum covering the history of Paris.
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a special area just for younger kids.
- Parc Zoologique de Paris: zoo with five different biozones, including giraffes, jaguars, and penguins.
- Parc de la Villette: huge park with themed playgrounds, open spaces, and the Géode, a giant mirrored dome housing an IMAX theater.
- Jardin des Plantes & Ménagerie: botanical garden with the Natural History Museum, which has impressive dinosaur skeletons.
- Aquarium de Paris: aquarium with sharks, jellyfish, and interactive touch tanks.
- Exploradôme: hands-on science and digital arts museum designed for kids to experiment and learn through play.
- Marché aux Fleurs et aux Oiseaux: colorful market where kids can see exotic birds, plants, and flowers in a lively setting.
- Château de Vincennes: medieval fortress with a moat and towers that makes for a fun historical adventure.
- La Coulée Verte (Promenade Plantée): elevated park built on an old railway line.
- Musée des Arts et Métiers: museum filled with inventions, old cars, and scientific instruments.
- Palais de la Découverte: another science museum with physics, chemistry, and astronomy exhibits, including a planetarium.
- Musée de la Magie: quirky magic museum featuring optical illusions, vintage tricks, and live magic performances.
- Bois de Vincennes: large park with rowboat rentals and lots of green space for running around.
Paris Day Trips
- Giverny: visit Claude Monet’s home and gardens, where you can see the famous water lilies and the Japanese bridge that inspired many of his paintings. The charming village also has a small Impressionist museum and beautiful countryside to explore.
- Fontainebleau: a beautiful château surrounded by forest. The gardens are beautiful, and the nearby Fontainebleau Forest is perfect for hiking, picnicking, or even rock climbing.
- Provins: a medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved ramparts, underground tunnels, and medieval-themed shows. It’s a great place for kids and history lovers without huge crowds.
- Chantilly: A short and easy train ride from the center of Paris, a Chantilly day trip is the perfect Paris family activity. Chantilly boasts a chateau, horse stables, the 2nd largest collection of antique paintings (after the Louvre), and the best (and most original) whipped cream around. It’s a smaller and far less busy chateau than Versailles, but feels classically French. Kids will be delighted by walking through the castle-like grounds and watching the horses. Then don’t forget to cap off the visit with gobs of delicious chantilly cream in the place where it was invented!
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