Exploring Paris with children can be an enchanting experience for the whole family, offering a blend of education, adventure, and fun. Known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and beautiful art, the city of lights is surprisingly accommodating for families traveling on a budget. Smart planning and a few insider tips can make a trip to Paris with kids both memorable and affordable.
Families should consider visiting the many parks and playgrounds, like the Champ de Mars, which boasts open spaces for children to play and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Attractions such as the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie provide interactive exhibits for curious young minds. Plus, many museums in Paris offer free entry for children under 18, making cultural outings more accessible.
Utilizing the efficient public transport system can save money on getting around; it’s easy to navigate and can be an adventure in itself for kids. Dining out need not be expensive with the abundance of bakeries offering delicious sandwiches, pastries, and other treats that can be enjoyed in the many scenic spots around the city. By staying flexible and embracing all that Paris offers, families can enjoy an enriching vacation that doesn’t break the bank.
Planning Your Paris Itinerary
Crafting the perfect Paris itinerary with children involves timing your visit well, pinpointing the top attractions and landmarks, and incorporating kid-friendly activities. With thoughtful planning, families can enjoy the wonders of the City of Light without feeling overwhelmed.
Best Times to Visit
Visiting Paris during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) is ideal, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are typically smaller compared to the busy summer months. These seasons offer the opportunity to explore outdoor spaces like the Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin des Tuileries with enjoyable weather.
Must-See Landmarks and Attractions
When in Paris, families can’t miss:
- Eiffel Tower: Capture breathtaking city views from its platforms.
- Louvre Museum: Home to the Mona Lisa and countless other masterpieces, an essential stop for older kids who appreciate art.
- Arc de Triomphe: Climb to its top for another unique perspective of Paris.
- Musee d’Orsay: Admire impressionist works in a stunning, former railway station.
- Sacre Coeur: The basilica located in Montmartre offers panoramic city views and nearby, the charming Place du Tertre is filled with artists and cafes.
- Seine River Cruise: A relaxing way to see many of Paris’s landmarks from the water.
Family-Friendly Activities and Playgrounds
Paris is replete with child-centric activities such as:
- Puppet Shows and Pony Rides in Parks: Regularly scheduled in places like Luxembourg Garden.
- Playgrounds: Spread across the city, some notable ones are located within the Luxembourg Garden and Parc Zoologique.
- Disneyland Paris: A theme park adventure that is a must for any kid visiting Paris.
- River Cruises: Offer activities tailored for children, providing both entertainment and education about the city’s history.
Specifically, the Montmartre district not only captivates adults with its artistic history but also delights young ones with its street performers and carousel.
Budgeting for Your Trip
When planning a family trip to Paris on a budget, it’s essential to consider where to stay, how to save on attractions, and where to eat to keep costs down.
Affordable Accommodation Options
Families can find budget-friendly places to stay that are still convenient for sightseeing. Paris has numerous accommodation options ranging from hostels offering family rooms to vacation rental apartments that can be economical and offer kitchen facilities. Staying in a central neighborhood saves on transit costs by positioning tourists close to attractions, reducing the reliance on public transportation.
Saving on Attractions With Passes
Utilizing passes like the Paris Pass or the Paris Museum Pass can lead to substantial savings on attraction costs. These passes offer free entry to a plethora of museums and landmarks and can include additional benefits like public transport tickets and skip-the-line privileges, which are perfect for families trying to maximize their time and budget in Paris.
Economical Dining and Food Choices
When it comes to dining, Paris offers a range of options suitable for a family on a budget. Besides affordable restaurants, visitors can enjoy a picnic with locally sourced products from Parisian markets or boulangeries. This not only saves money but also offers a memorable Parisian experience. Alternatively, families can look for accommodations with kitchen facilities to prepare some meals at home, which helps manage dining costs effectively.
Getting to and Around Paris
When planning a family trip to Paris, it’s essential to consider the most efficient and cost-effective ways to reach the city and navigate its various attractions. Paris is well-connected by international and local transport options and offers a comprehensive public transport system that can be convenient even for those traveling with children.
International and Local Transport
Paris is accessible by several major transport hubs. Charles De Gaulle Airport is the primary international gateway for families flying in from abroad, offering flights from a myriad of global destinations. Upon arrival, families can take the RER B train directly to central Paris, which is faster than a bus and more budget-friendly than a taxi.
For families visiting from the UK or nearby European countries, the Eurostar high-speed train is an excellent choice, whisking passengers from London direct to Gare du Nord in Paris in just over two hours. Alternatively, the TGV, France’s intercity high-speed rail, connects to Paris from many French and European cities, providing a swift and scenic journey into the heart of the city.
Navigating Public Transport With Kids
Getting around Paris with kids on public transport requires a bit of planning but can be quite manageable. The Metro system, comprising 16 lines, is the quickest way to travel across Paris. Tickets can be purchased as single rides or in books of ten, which is more economical. It’s good practice to keep a Metro map on hand or use a smartphone app to plan routes.
For those looking to explore beyond the central areas, the RER suburban express train reaches wider destinations, including the famous Disneyland Paris, which children often insist on visiting. Just remember that RER tickets cost more as you travel further from the city center.
For a unique sightseeing experience, consider sharing a boat ride on the Seine with your kids. This way, they can see some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks from a different perspective, and you can rest your feet for a while.
Here’s a simple table to summarize key transport options for families:
Transport Option | Suitable For | Notes |
---|---|---|
Charles De Gaulle Airport to RER B | Long-distance Travellers | Fast access to city center |
Eurostar to Gare du Nord | UK/European Visitors | Direct, quick, family-friendly |
TGV | Wider European Access | Connects regional France to Paris |
Paris Metro | City Exploration | Frequent, fast, various ticket options |
RER | Greater Paris Area | Access to suburbs and Disneyland Paris |
Boat Ride on the Seine | Sightseeing | Relaxing and scenic |
Always remember that children may tire easily, especially after a long flight or train ride. Hence, planning your journey from the airport or train station to your accommodation with minimal changes is advisable for a smoother start to your Paris trip.
Kid-Specific Tips and Tricks
When traveling to Paris with kids, the experience can be magical with the right planning. From engaging children with the city’s rich culture to navigating the inevitable crowds, these tips help families maximize their enjoyment.
Engaging Kids in Cultural Experiences
Introducing kids to Parisian culture can be both educational and entertaining. A visit to Montmartre allows them to soak in the artistic atmosphere, while interactive baking classes give a taste of French cuisine in a fun setting. For a unique experience, take the family to watch a traditional puppet theater, which can be found in several parks around Paris.
Dealing With Crowds and Queues
Paris is popular and can be crowded. To minimize stress, families should plan to visit attractions like Disneyland Paris or the Eiffel Tower early in the day. It’s a good idea to pre-book tickets to save time standing in lines. In case of long waits, having small distractions such as games can help keep kids entertained. Lastly, visiting spacious parks in Paris, like the Champ de Mars, provides a relaxed space for kids to run free and even sail toy boats in the fountains.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Paris, the city of lights, offers a wealth of activities for families traveling with children, especially during the enchanting spring and exciting summer seasons. From the blossoming beauty of April to the vibrant pace of August, each month has its unique charm and array of events that cater to young adventurers and their parents.
Spring Celebrations in April
April in Paris is a visual treat, with gardens like the Jardin Des Plantes bursting into bloom, creating a perfect backdrop for family excursions. Besides the floral beauty, the Jardin D’Acclimatation welcomes families with its amusing puppet shows and delightful pony rides, providing both educational and entertaining experiences. It’s also a time when the Paris Pass can be particularly handy, offering access to numerous attractions often with a queue skip option which can be a relief with kids in tow.
- Key Activities:
- Visit Jardin Des Plantes for a picturesque family picnic among the spring blossoms.
- Enjoy Jardin D’Acclimatation with its family-friendly attractions.
Summer Fun in August
As August arrives, Paris transforms into a playground for all ages. The iconic Galeries Lafayette hosts summer sales that are perfect for families looking to indulge in some shopping while the historical Notre Dame often features kid-friendly workshops and tours. Even the majestic Palace of Versailles becomes more accessible; its vast gardens are free to explore, and often there are musical fountain shows that captivate both adults and children alike.
- Key August Events:
- Explore the sales and interactive family activities at Galeries Lafayette.
- Witness the splendor of the Palace of Versailles gardens and its musical fountain shows.
Conclusion
Exploring Paris with kids can be a budget-friendly and enriching experience. They call it the City of Lights for its illuminated beauty, but one doesn’t have to spend extravagantly to enjoy it. A Travel Expert would suggest visiting museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay during their free admission days, especially on the first Sunday of the month, maximizing both cultural immersion and cost-saving.
Paris offers plenty of open spaces perfect for children to play and learn. The expansive Bois de Vincennes houses the Parc Zoologique de Paris, a magnetic attraction for animal-loving kids. Meanwhile, the sandy beaches along the Seine are transformed during summertime, becoming an urban oasis with activities that are both enjoyable and free.
Accommodation costs can be significantly reduced by traveling during shoulder months like April or May. It’s quieter, and one can witness Paris bloom into spring, an ideal backdrop for family photos.
Finally, the ease of transportation to the Gare du Nord via train services such as Thalys and TGV offers a relaxed start and end to a Parisian adventure.
By incorporating these tips and suggestions, families can create memorable experiences without stretching their budget. Paris, with its timeless charm, awaits to offer a blend of education, entertainment, and enchantment for all ages.

Hello, Holiday Travelers! I’m Judith Eve, the founder and principal writer for HeyFamilyTravelers and CruisingtonPost, and now HeyHolidayTravelers.com
My home is nestled in beautiful South Florida, where the sun kisses the waves and the beach stretches out like an endless welcome mat. It’s a gorgeous place that brings joy and inspiration, but my spirit has always been captivated by the allure of distant shores and unique cultures. The thrill of packing a suitcase, stepping aboard a plane or a ship, and waking up in a new destination never fails to ignite my soul.
I started my life’s adventure as a mother of two wonderful children who have since blessed me with three delightful grandchildren. The memories we’ve built exploring the globe together are the treasures of my heart. This love for family and travel is the core of Heyholidaytravelers, and HeyFamilyTravelers, places where I share our stories, tips, and experiences, aiming to inspire other families to embark on their own adventure-filled journeys.
Over the years, my family and I have discovered our shared passion for cruising. There is something incredible about floating on the endless sea, with world-class service, fabulous entertainment, and the excitement of exploring multiple destinations in one trip. My love for this unique form of travel led me to establish CruisingtonPost, another platform where I focus on sharing our sea-borne adventures, cruise reviews, and travel advice.
My objective is simple. I want to encourage everyone, especially families and seniors, to step out of their comfort zones, explore the world, and create their own cherished memories. Life’s journey is full of beautiful places and moments waiting to be discovered. I hope that through my stories and articles, you’ll find the inspiration and practical guidance you need to set sail on your own grand adventure, during special holidays, or any time of year.
Thank you for stopping by. I look forward to sharing family travel escapades with you and hearing about your own travels as well.
Happy Travels,
Judith Eve