Travel with Family in the City of Light: Exploring Paris
- Barry
- 1 minute ago
- 16 min read
Are you dreaming of iconic monuments, art treasures, and culinary adventures that will please even the pickiest little eaters? Look no further than Paris, the enchanting French capital that isn't just for romantic couples! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about traveling with family to Paris, from the best time to visit to where to stay, eat, and play. Grab your beret and your patience – we're about to plan the ultimate family vacation to the City of Light!
Why Paris is Perfect for Families
When you think about traveling with family to Paris, you might not immediately picture a kid-friendly destination. But don't be fooled by the image of romance and haute cuisine – Paris is surprisingly awesome for families with children of all ages!
First, Paris is an open-air museum where history comes alive. Kids who've learned about the French Revolution or Napoleon in school can now walk where these historical figures walked. There's nothing quite as magical as the moment your child first sees the Eiffel Tower in person after only seeing it in books.
The city's excellent public transportation makes traveling with family to Paris surprisingly easy. The metro is extensive, affordable, and takes you practically anywhere. Yes, there are stairs (lots of stairs), but more and more accessible stations with elevators are becoming available.
Family Travel Tip: Children under 4 travel free on public transportation in Paris, and there are special discount rates for children aged 4-10. Consider a Navigo Découverte weekly pass or Paris Visite pass if you'll be traveling extensively.
Paris also offers a perfect mix of cultural attractions and pure kid fun. In the same day, you can visit a world-famous art museum (with special children's routes!) in the morning, picnic in a beautiful park in the afternoon, and finish the day with a boat ride on the Seine or a visit to a traditional puppet show.
The French have a reputation for cherishing children, despite the stereotype of haughty waiters. "Les enfants" are welcomed in restaurants, cafés, and cultural institutions. Many museums offer free admission for children under 18 and special programs to engage young visitors.
Finally, for families looking for a vacation that's both fun and educational, traveling with family to Paris offers endless possibilities. From science museums to historical monuments, from art galleries to chocolate workshops – Paris stimulates children's curiosity and imagination in ways few other cities can match.
Best Time to Visit Paris with Kids
Timing is crucial when traveling with family to Paris. Choose the wrong month, and you might find yourself and your children struggling through stifling heat or endless lines!
Peak Season (June-August): The summer months offer warm weather and long days, perfect for parks and outdoor activities. However, this is also when tourist attractions are busiest and prices are highest. If you must travel during this period, plan early morning visits to popular attractions and book tickets well in advance.
Sweet Spot (April-May and September-October): These shoulder months are the golden tickets for traveling with family to Paris. The weather is pleasant (typically 59-77°F), the crowds are significantly thinner, and hotel prices drop by 20-30% compared to peak season. Parks are beautiful in spring and fall, and you'll spend less time in queues.
Winter Wonderland (November-March): Paris winters are cold but rarely extreme (averaging 37-46°F). The benefits? Far fewer tourists, significantly lower accommodation prices, and a magical Christmas atmosphere in December. Many outdoor activities are less appealing, but museums and indoor attractions are quieter.
Family Travel Tip: If you're planning to travel with family to Paris during school vacations, book attractions and restaurants well in advance. French school holidays (especially February, Easter, July-August) mean that local attractions like Disneyland Paris can be extra busy.
For families with school-age children bound by academic calendars, consider the late May/early June or September periods when possible. The weather is great for outdoor activities, but you avoid the worst crowds of July and August.
Weather-wise, here's what to expect when traveling with family to Paris throughout the year:
Spring (March-May): Gradually warming temperatures (50-68°F), regular rain showers, blooming gardens and parks
Summer (June-August): Warm, sunny days (68-86°F), possible heat waves in July/August, longest daylight
Fall (September-November): Gradually cooling temperatures (50-72°F), beautiful fall colors in parks
Winter (December-February): Cool to cold (34-46°F), possible light snow, early sunset (around 5:00 PM)
One final consideration: national holidays. While these offer special events (like fireworks on Bastille Day, July 14), they can also mean some attractions are closed and public transportation runs on a limited schedule.
Family-Friendly Activities in Paris for Every Age
When traveling with family to Paris, you'll discover activities that appeal to every age group and interest level. From iconic monuments to hidden gems, here's how to keep everyone entertained:
For Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
Jardin d'Acclimatation: This historic amusement park in the Bois de Boulogne is perfect for little ones with gentle rides, a small farm, and water activities in summer.
Puppets in Jardin du Luxembourg: The traditional puppet shows in this beautiful park have been a Parisian tradition for generations. Performances are in French, but the visual humor transcends language barriers.
Cité des Enfants: Part of the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, this specially designed space for children aged 2-7 offers hands-on scientific activities perfect for curious toddlers.
Family Travel Tip: When traveling with family to Paris with very young children, consider renting an apartment rather than a hotel room. The extra space and kitchen facilities will make nap times and early dinners much easier to manage.
For Elementary School Kids (Ages 6-10)
GetYourGuide's Chocolate Workshop for Families: Learn how to make delicious French chocolates in a workshop specifically designed for children and their parents.
Musée de la Magie: This small but fascinating museum of magic and illusion in the Marais district contains interactive illusions and regular magic shows that enchant children.
Seine River Cruise: A boat tour is a relaxing way to see the sights without tired feet. Viator's daytime cruises are perfect for families, with audio commentary that's interesting for kids too.
Eiffel Tower Climb: Most children in this age group can handle the stairs to the second level (674 steps). It's cheaper than the elevator, has shorter waits, and gives a sense of accomplishment!
For Tweens and Teens (Ages 11-17)
Montmartre Street Art Tour: Teens appreciate the cool, Instagram-worthy street art and bohemian atmosphere of this historic district. Combine it with a visit to Sacré-Cœur for spectacular views over the city.
Catacombs: For adventurous teens, Paris's underground ossuaries are fascinatingly creepy. Book skip-the-line tickets via GetYourGuide to avoid the notoriously long queues.
Centre Pompidou: Modern art often appeals to teens, and the inside-out architecture and street performers outside make it extra interesting. The panoramic escalators offer great photo opportunities.
Shopping in Le Marais: Trendy boutiques and vintage shops in this hip neighborhood are perfect for fashion-conscious teens. Mix culture and shopping by visiting the nearby Place des Vosges and Picasso Museum.
For the Whole Family
Disneyland Paris: Located just 45 minutes from the center, Disney's European resort offers two parks full of magic. Book multi-day passes via Expedia for the best value.
Paris by Bike: For families with older children, a guided bike tour offers a refreshing perspective on the city. Many routes follow safe bike paths along the Seine.
Musée du Louvre Treasure Hunt: Make a visit to the world's most famous museum engaging with a family treasure hunt tour via Viator that focuses on the most kid-friendly artworks and artifacts.
Picnic Like a Parisian: Gather baguettes, cheese, fruit, and pastries from local shops and enjoy an authentic Parisian picnic in one of the city's beautiful parks. Champ de Mars (with views of the Eiffel Tower) is particularly memorable.
When planning activities while traveling with family to Paris, remember to pace yourselves. The combination of lots of walking, cultural stimulation, and possibly jet lag can be exhausting, especially for younger children. Plan one major activity per day, interspersed with relaxation time in parks or cafés, and everyone will have a more enjoyable experience.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces for Families
A family trip to Paris wouldn't be complete without spending time in the city's beautiful parks and gardens. These green oases provide perfect places for children to burn off energy and for parents to relax after sightseeing. When traveling with family to Paris, put these outdoor spaces at the top of your list:
Jardin du Luxembourg
Location: 6th arrondissement, Latin Quarter Why families love it: This elegant garden, created in 1612, is the crown jewel of Parisian parks for families. It offers:
One of the best playgrounds in Paris (small entrance fee, but worth it)
Traditional puppet shows in the puppet theater
Boat rental to sail on the central basin
Pony rides along the paths
Vintage carousel
Plenty of chairs to relax while the children play
Jardin des Tuileries
Location: 1st arrondissement, between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde Why families love it: This formal garden is surprisingly kid-friendly with:
Trampoline area where children can jump (for a small fee)
Seasonal fairground with Ferris wheel and rides (summer and Christmas)
Boat rental on the ponds
Spacious paths perfect for chasing pigeons
Strategic location for breaks between sightseeing
Family Travel Tip: When traveling with family to Paris, pack a few sandwiches and drinks for an impromptu picnic in the Tuileries. The chairs around the ponds are perfect for a rest break, and you'll save on lunch costs while enjoying billionaire-worthy views!
Parc de la Villette
Location: 19th arrondissement, northeastern Paris Why families love it: This modern park is a paradise for active children:
10 themed playgrounds scattered throughout the park
Le Dragon - a huge dragon-shaped play structure children can climb
Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie - Europe's largest science museum
La Géode - a striking mirrored sphere with IMAX cinema
Regular outdoor films and events in summer
Bois de Boulogne
Location: 16th arrondissement, western Paris Why families love it: This huge forest (2.5 times larger than Central Park) offers:
Jardin d'Acclimatation - a historic amusement park with attractions for all ages
Boat rental on various lakes
Cycling and walking paths through peaceful wooded areas
Fondation Louis Vuitton - a spectacular modern art museum with family activities
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Location: 19th arrondissement, northeastern Paris Why families love it: This hilly park is one of the most dramatic in Paris:
Spectacular rocks and caves to explore
A suspension bridge leading to a temple on an island in the lake
Steep slopes perfect for children to roll down
Fewer tourists than the central parks
Authentic Parisian atmosphere with local families on weekends
Family Travel Tip: When traveling with family to Paris, bring water shoes for children who want to play in the fountains and water features found in many Parisian parks, especially in summer.
Where to Stay with Kids in Paris
Finding the right accommodation is crucial when traveling with family to Paris. Your choice will significantly impact both your budget and daily logistics. Here's a breakdown of the best areas and accommodation types for families:
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Marais (3rd and 4th arrondissements): This central district offers a perfect mix of:
Walking distance to attractions like Notre-Dame and Centre Pompidou
Less touristy than areas around the Eiffel Tower
Several parks, including the charming Place des Vosges
Excellent metro connections
Many family-friendly cafés and restaurants
Jardin du Luxembourg area (5th and 6th arrondissements): These elegant districts are ideal for families due to:
Proximity to the Jardin du Luxembourg with its amazing playground
Quiet, safe streets
Excellent bakeries and markets
Easy access to both the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Montmartre (18th arrondissement): This hilly district offers:
Village-like atmosphere with less traffic
Lower accommodation prices than central Paris
Beautiful views from Sacré-Cœur
Local playgrounds and smaller parks
Authentic neighborhood feel
15th arrondissement: This less touristy district is perfect for families looking for:
More spacious accommodations for lower prices
Local markets and shops
Parc André Citroën with its interactive fountains
Good metro connections to tourist areas
Family Travel Tip: When traveling with family to Paris, carefully check accommodation descriptions for "Eiffel Tower view" versus "near the Eiffel Tower." Many properties advertise proximity but might still be a 20-30 minute walk – which feels much longer with tired children!
Family-Friendly Accommodation Options
Apartment Rentals: When traveling with family to Paris, apartments often provide the best value and convenience. Benefits include:
Separate bedrooms for parents and children
Kitchen facilities for preparing simple meals and snacks
More space for the inevitable explosion of family belongings
Often more economical than hotel rooms for families of 4+
Opportunity to stay in authentic neighborhoods
Family-Friendly Hotels: If you prefer hotel amenities, these properties particularly welcome families:
Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel (15th arrondissement)
Spacious family rooms accommodating up to 4 people
Indoor swimming pool
Children's corner in the restaurant
Walking distance to the Eiffel Tower
Citadines Apart'hotels (multiple locations)
Aparthotels combining hotel services with apartment space
Fully equipped kitchens
Laundry facilities on-site
Central locations throughout Paris
Hotel Residence Henri IV (5th arrondissement)
Boutique hotel with apartment suites
Quiet location in the Latin Quarter
Kitchenettes in many rooms
Charming historic building with modern amenities
MIJE Hostels (Marais)
Budget-friendly option in historic buildings
Private rooms for families available
Breakfast included
Central location in the Marais
Budget-Friendly Options: When traveling with family to Paris on a tighter budget, consider:
Generator Hostel Paris (10th arrondissement)
Modern hostel with private rooms for families
Vibrant common spaces
Near Canal Saint-Martin
Excellent value for money
Ibis Styles Hotels (various locations)
Colorful, themed rooms that appeal to children
Free breakfast
Often rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people
Reliable standards at affordable prices
Accommodation Booking Tips
When traveling with family to Paris, keep these booking tips in mind:
Book well in advance for summer visits (at least 6 months ahead for July/August)
Confirm air conditioning if visiting June-September
Verify the exact location and distance to attractions/metro
Check cancellation policies carefully, especially for peak season bookings
Ask about extra beds/cribs and any additional charges
Consider noise factors – accommodations in lively areas can be noisy until late
Verify wifi availability if you're traveling with teens (trust us on this one!)
Check for hidden costs such as tourist taxes, cleaning fees, or parking charges
Kid-Friendly Dining in Paris
French cuisine is known for its sophistication, but that doesn't mean children can't enjoy it! When traveling with family to Paris, you'll discover that restaurants range from touristy establishments to authentic local spots that are surprisingly kid-friendly.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Breizh Café (Multiple locations)
Delicious crêpes and galettes (savory buckwheat pancakes)
Casual atmosphere welcoming to children
Sweet and savory options to suit all tastes
Reasonable prices for Paris
Chez Gladines (13th arrondissement)
Basque comfort food in large portions
Informal, lively atmosphere
Affordable prices
Popular with local families
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte (Multiple locations)
Simple menu - just steak-frites with their famous sauce
No decision fatigue for tired children
Quick service
Authentic French bistro experience
Café de Flore (6th arrondissement)
Iconic café with excellent chocolat chaud (hot chocolate)
People-watching at its best
Historic atmosphere (visited by famous writers and artists)
Perfect for a special treat
Le Comptoir du Relais (6th arrondissement)
Bistro by famous chef Yves Camdeborde
Casual lunch menu that appeals to children
Excellent people-watching location
Reservations recommended
Family Travel Tip: When traveling with family to Paris, consider having your main meal at lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants offer identical menus at both times, but lunch prices can be 20-30% lower than dinner prices!
French Dishes Kids Might Enjoy
When traveling with family to Paris, introduce your children to these kid-friendly local specialties:
Croque Monsieur/Madame – Fancy grilled cheese (with ham and an egg for the "madame" version)
Steak-Frites – Simple but delicious: steak with french fries
Poulet Rôti – Perfectly roasted chicken, a French specialty
Crêpes – Thin pancakes with sweet or savory fillings
Pain au Chocolat – Chocolate folded into puff pastry, perfect for breakfast
Macarons – Colorful almond cookies with various fillings
Chocolat Chaud – Rich French hot chocolate, often served with whipped cream
Dining Tips for Families
Meal timing: French people typically eat lunch around 1:00-2:00 PM and dinner after 7:30 PM. If your children need to eat earlier, look for restaurants in tourist areas that serve continuously.
Water options: When ordering water, specify "une carafe d'eau" (a carafe of tap water) if you want free tap water instead of mineral water. Tap water in Paris is perfectly safe.
High chairs: Not all restaurants have high chairs available. If you're traveling with family to Paris including a toddler, call ahead or bring a portable fabric high chair.
Children's menus: Many restaurants offer a "menu enfant" (children's menu) that typically includes a simple main course, dessert, and drink for a fixed price.
Picnic supplies: For budget-friendly meals, visit boulangeries (bakeries), fromageries (cheese shops), and small supermarkets like Monoprix or Carrefour City for picnic supplies.
Allergies: If your child has food allergies, learn the French terms for common allergens or carry an allergy translation card. "Sans gluten" means gluten-free, while "sans lactose" means lactose-free.
Essential Travel Tips for Families Visiting Paris
When traveling with family to Paris, these practical tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone:
Getting There and Getting Around
Airport Transfers: Paris has two major airports, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY). Options for families include:
Pre-booked private transfers (most convenient with children)
RER B train from CDG to central Paris (economical but can be crowded)
Orlyval and RER B from Orly
Taxi (use official metered taxis)
GetYourGuide's private airport transfers (comfortable and reliable)
Public Transportation: Paris's metro system is extensive and affordable.
Buy a pack of 10 tickets (carnet) for a discount
Children under 4 travel free; ages 4-10 get reduced rates
Consider a Navigo Découverte weekly pass for unlimited travel
Download the RATP app for real-time updates and route planning
Walking: Paris is a great walking city, but be prepared for:
Lots of walking - comfortable shoes are essential
Uneven sidewalks and cobblestones in historic areas
Limited shade during summer months
Busy crossings - always hold small children's hands
Family Travel Tip: When traveling with family to Paris, consider staying near a metro station if you're not staying centrally. After a day of sightseeing, tired little legs will appreciate the ride home!
Health and Safety
Sun Protection: Summer sun in Paris can be intense.
Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly
Bring wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective swimwear
Plan indoor activities during peak sun hours (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Carry refillable water bottles to stay hydrated
Medical Facilities: Paris has excellent healthcare.
European citizens should bring their EHIC/GHIC card
Numerous pharmacies (pharmacies with green cross signs) in the city center
Travel insurance is strongly recommended
Bring essential medications, as specific brands may not be available
Safety:
Paris is generally safe, but pickpockets target tourist areas
Use anti-theft bags and keep valuables secure
Be extra vigilant in crowded tourist areas and on the metro
Teach children what to do if they get lost: find a police officer or shop employee
Consider ID bracelets for younger children with your contact information
Make a meeting point agreement in case you get separated in busy areas
Practical Matters
Money:
France uses the Euro (€)
Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash on hand for small purchases
Many small bakeries and cafés have minimum amounts for card payments
ATMs are widely available but may charge foreign transaction fees
Wi-Fi and Connectivity:
Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafés and public spaces
Consider a local SIM card for data if staying longer than a few days
Download offline maps before you arrive
The official Paris Tourist Office app offers helpful information and offline maps
Language:
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but a few basic French phrases are greatly appreciated:
"Bonjour" (Hello)
"Merci" (Thank you)
"S'il vous plaît" (Please)
"Excusez-moi" (Excuse me)
"Parlez-vous anglais?" (Do you speak English?)
Family-Specific Tips
Stroller Considerations: When traveling with family to Paris with small children:
Bring a lightweight, foldable stroller for flat areas
Consider a baby carrier for exploring the metro and crowded attractions
Be prepared for stairs in metro stations (only about 50 of 300+ stations have elevators)
Baby Supplies:
Diapers, formula, and baby food are available at Monoprix, Carrefour, and pharmacies
Baby-specific items may be more expensive than at home
Bring enough supplies for the first few days
Laundry Options:
Self-service laundromats are available in most neighborhoods
Some apartments offer washing machines
Bring quick-dry clothing to hand wash if necessary
Rainy Day Activities:
Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
Musée du Louvre
Galeries Lafayette (department store with spectacular dome)
Passages Couverts (covered 19th-century shopping arcades)
Forum des Halles (large shopping mall with kid-friendly activities)
Money-Saving Tips
When traveling with family to Paris, costs can add up quickly. Here's how to save:
Visit during shoulder season (April/May or September/October) for lower prices and fewer crowds
Purchase the Paris Museum Pass for free entry to over 50 museums and monuments
Stay in apartments with kitchen facilities to prepare some of your own meals
Bring water bottles and refill them instead of buying bottled water
Look for "formule midi" – fixed-price lunch specials offered by many restaurants
Shop at local markets for fresh fruit and picnic supplies
Consider day trips using public transportation instead of organized tours when possible
Book GetYourGuide activities in advance for early booking discounts
Packing Essentials
When traveling with family to Paris, don't forget these items:
Comfortable walking shoes for everyone
Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella (Paris can have a shower anytime)
Universal plug adapter (France uses type E outlets)
Reusable water bottles
Small backpack for day trips
Basic first aid kit including blister bandages
Portable phone charger for long sightseeing days
Lightweight scarf (handy for cooler evenings and as respect when visiting churches)
Conclusion
Traveling with family to Paris offers that rare vacation trifecta: education, relaxation, and adventure, all wrapped in a beautiful package of iconic monuments and charming streets. From climbing the Eiffel Tower to enjoying a chocolat chaud in a historic café, Paris provides the perfect backdrop for creating those precious family memories that will live long after the vacation photos have been put away.
The City of Light welcomes families with open arms, offering experiences that can be tailored to children of all ages. Whether your kids are history buffs eager to explore medieval castles, art fans ready to discover masterpieces in the Louvre, or simply young travelers enjoying the simple pleasure of a carousel in a Parisian park, this city delivers with French flair.
When traveling with family to Paris, the key is balance – mix cultural experiences with park time, planned tours with free exploration, and restaurant meals with picnic adventures. This approach keeps everyone engaged and prevents the dreaded vacation fatigue that can come from trying to see everything.
Remember that the most memorable family vacations often come from unexpected moments – the friendly street musician who let your daughter sing along in Montmartre, the impromptu soccer game your son played with local children in Jardin du Luxembourg, or the evening ritual of macarons that became your family's daily tradition. Leave room in your travel schedule for these spontaneous experiences that often become favorite vacation stories.
As you plan your family adventure to this French gem, remember that traveling with family to Paris isn't just about checking off attractions – it's about experiencing together the unique rhythm of Parisian life. Slow down, embrace the relaxed pace of café culture, and cherish those special moments of discovery and connection that make family travel so valuable.
Paris's iconic monuments have witnessed centuries of history, and now they'll witness your family's laughter, wonder, and joy as you create your own chapter in this timeless city of light and love. Bon voyage!
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