Weekend Family Guide to Paris

Visit the Eiffel Tower: Start your day with a visit to one of the most famous landmarks in the world—the Eiffel Tower. Kids will be thrilled by the sheer size of the tower. You can take the elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city, or stop at the first level, where there’s a glass floor for an extra thrill. Don’t forget to take some family photos with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop.

Walk Through Champ de Mars: After your Eiffel Tower visit, take a leisurely stroll through the Champ de Mars park. The expansive green space is perfect for letting kids run around, and there are playgrounds where they can burn off some energy.

Seine River Cruise: Next, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the Seine River. Many companies offer family-friendly cruises that provide a unique perspective of Paris’s most famous landmarks, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. The commentary is often available in multiple languages, making it educational for the whole family.

Lunch at a Parisian Bistro: For lunch, head to a family-friendly bistro in the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower. Many bistros offer kids’ menus, with French classics like croque-monsieur, quiche, or steak frites. Outdoor seating is ideal for enjoying the Parisian atmosphere while keeping an eye on the kids.

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral: After lunch, head to Île de la Cité to visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. While the interior is currently closed due to restoration, the exterior and the surrounding area are still worth exploring. Kids may enjoy hearing the story of the Hunchback of Notre-Dame and spotting the famous gargoyles.

Explore Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis: Stroll around the charming Île de la Cité and its neighbor, Île Saint-Louis. The islands are home to quaint streets, ice cream shops (like the famous Berthillon), and small parks perfect for a quiet break.

Visit Montmartre: In the evening, head to Montmartre, known for its artistic history and bohemian vibe. Kids will love the funicular ride up to the top of the hill, where they can explore the area around Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The basilica itself is beautiful, and the views over Paris are stunning.

Dinner in Montmartre: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Montmartre. The area is full of charming cafés and bistros that offer a warm atmosphere and delicious French cuisine.

Visit the Louvre Museum: Start your second day with a visit to the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous artworks, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. The museum offers special family-friendly tours and activities that make exploring the vast collections more engaging for children. Consider using the museum’s kid-friendly maps to focus on highlights that will capture their interest.

Jardin des Tuileries: After your museum visit, take a walk through the Jardin des Tuileries, located right outside the Louvre. The garden is perfect for a family stroll, with its fountains, statues, and beautiful landscaping. There’s also a carousel and playground where kids can play.

Picnic in the Park: If the weather is nice, pick up some baguettes, cheese, and pastries from a local bakery, and enjoy a picnic in the Tuileries Garden or nearby Luxembourg Gardens. Both parks offer plenty of space to relax and let the kids play.

Café Lunch: Alternatively, choose a café near the Seine or in Saint-Germain-des-Prés for a leisurely lunch. Many Parisian cafés are welcoming to families, offering simple yet delicious meals in a relaxed setting.

Luxembourg Gardens: After lunch, head to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of the most family-friendly parks in Paris. The park features a large playground, puppet shows, and the iconic model sailboats that children can rent and sail in the Grand Basin. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon while the kids enjoy the various activities.

Explore the Latin Quarter: If time allows, take a short walk to the nearby Latin Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and historic charm. You can explore the narrow streets, visit the Panthéon, or simply enjoy the street performers and vibrant ambiance.

Dinner in the Marais: For your final evening, head to the Marais district, known for its charming streets and diverse culinary scene. Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at a restaurant that offers a mix of traditional French dishes and international cuisine.

Treats at a Pâtisserie: End your day with a visit to a pâtisserie for some authentic French desserts. Let the kids pick out macarons, éclairs, or other sweet treats to enjoy as you take a final stroll through the illuminated streets of Paris.

Transportation: Use the Paris Métro to get around the city efficiently. Children under 4 travel for free, and reduced fares are available for children up to 10 years old. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel on public transport.

Skip-the-Line Tickets: For major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets in advance to save time and avoid long queues.

Kid-Friendly Attractions: Paris has many kid-friendly attractions beyond the main tourist sites, such as the Cité des Enfants at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the Paris Zoo, and the Jardin d’Acclimatation amusement park.