Let’s take a look at Paris activities that are fun for the whole family!
Planning a family trip to Paris and want to keep both the adults and kids happy? Don’t panic, while it might seem like a mission impossible, we’ve got some ideas that will satisfy even the pickiest family members. The French capital is full of activities that are fun for all ages, from everyone’s favorite amusement park (Disneyland, of course) to fascinating museums and a boat ride along the Seine.
Read on to discover 8 of the best things to do in Paris with kids:
Who hasn’t dreamed of going to Disneyland? With its captivating shows, lively parades featuring everyone’s childhood heroes and a myriad of new attractions, a trip to Disneyland is sure to satisfy the whole family. Plus, located just 25 miles from the city, Disneyland and Walt Disney Studio are easily accessible by RER.
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Visit a museum
Paris is packed with museums, and while (as you may know all too well) cultural outings with children are not always the most fun, this is starting to change as more cultural institutions adapt to appeal to the young. The Louvre in particular has the Louvre Kids, which offers themed itineraries designed specifically to help the little ones discover masterpieces that have made art history.
The Grévin Wax Museum is also an entertaining option for the family, while the avant-garde Pompidou Center fascinates those of all ages and the beautiful Musèe d’Orsay amazes at every step.
Go for a scenic stroll or boat ride
There are many picturesque routes and itineraries in Paris, perfect for a stroll with the kids. One of the most charming is undoubtedly the riverbanks of the Seine, where you can also discover Paris from a different perspective: on the water. Make yourself comfortable on the famous “bateaux mouches”. Literally translated as “fly boats”, much like a fly buzzes from place to place (hence the name) these boats shuttle visitors to various stops along the riverbank. You can also combine a tour of Paris and its main attractions with a relaxing Seine boat ride.
A village in the heart of a big city, Montmartre is another pretty neighborhood to discover with the family. Wander through its bohemian lanes with lively terraces and hidden gardens. Otherwise, if you’re looking for something more structured, take a walking tour of the Latin Quarter that ends with a visit to the Orsay Museum.
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Admire the view from the Eiffel Tower
Towering over the Champs de Mars park and sitting opposite the Trocadero, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of the City of Light and a must-see in the French capital. Not only is it the perfect way to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, it also makes for a family moment you’ll treasure long after you’ve returned from Paris.
Admire the tower from multiple perspectives while keeping your feet firmly on the ground, otherwise head to the second floor, 115m high, or the third floor, 276m high, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the city.
The Palace of Versailles is undoubtedly one of the most famous royal palaces in the world. Spread over 679,784sq ft, with 2300 rooms and around four centuries of history, the palace is located just 9 miles west of Paris, making it an excellent destination for a day trip from the French capital. It’s also a great attraction to visit with children as it has a tour designed especially for families, where you can discover the history of its former tenants in a fun way. And let’s not forget the evening fountain show in the garden of Versailles, which enchants both young and old.
Exploring an aquarium is an enjoyable activity to do with the kids in tow, and the Paris aquarium is particularly magical. Located within the Trocadero gardens, right in front of the Eiffel Tower, the Aquarium de Paris boasts over 40 pools with an immense variety of marine species. And as if this weren’t enough, it also has two cinemas plus numerous activities and shows to entertain the little ones.
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7 Have fun in the Parisian parks
Is there any better place to take a relaxing break and let the kids burn off some energy? The parks of Paris are also among Europe’s most beautiful and often have areas, activities and shows entirely dedicated to children. Luxembourg Gardens is particularly suitable for kids, because they can ride ponies, see a puppet show at the theater or take a ride on the fantastic vintage carousel. But let’s not forget Parc de la Villette, an industrial-style park with two truly avant-garde gardens to romp around.
Sometimes you need a break from city life and Loire Valley, with its striking castles, more than provides. The best and fastest way to reach the area is by train, but a good alternative is also to rent a car so you can move around more independently. The Clos Lucè castle, Leonardo da Vinci’s last home, is known to be popular with children. Here, you can learn about Leonardo’s genius through interactive exhibits and faithful reproductions of his greatest inventions. Château du Rivau is another great option, for its wonderful gardens that are so charming they inspired 14 fairytale paintings.
If you need more tips, read our article on the 15 most beautiful castles of the Loire.
