This comprehensive guide explores everything families need to know about visiting Paris in 2025, from engaging activities and child-friendly accommodations to practical travel tips that will ensure a memorable Parisian adventure for both parents and children. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or a multi-generational group, this guide will help you navigate the French capital with confidence and discover the perfect balance of iconic sights and hidden gems that will delight visitors of all ages.
Kid-Friendly Attractions and Activities in Paris 2025
Paris offers an impressive array of attractions that appeal to children while still engaging adults, allowing families to create shared experiences that everyone will treasure.
Classic Paris Attractions Reimagined for Families
The city’s iconic landmarks have adapted to better accommodate families, with specialized programs and amenities that make these must-see destinations accessible to younger visitors.
Eiffel Tower Family Experience
The Eiffel Tower has transformed its visitor experience for 2025 with several family-focused enhancements:
- Interactive Discovery Path – A new ground-level route features augmented reality stations where children can learn about the tower’s construction through animated characters and games.
- Family Fast-Track – Dedicated elevator access for families with children under 12 reduces waiting times during peak periods.
- Junior Explorer Packs – Available for rent, these backpacks contain age-appropriate activity materials, binoculars, and a digital audio guide narrated by cartoon characters.
- First-Floor Family Zone – This redesigned area includes a small play space, family restrooms, and a café with kid-friendly menu options.
For the best experience, book the “Family Morning” tickets available Tuesday through Friday, which include early access before general opening hours and a guided activity session.
Louvre Museum’s Family Trails
The world’s most visited museum has expanded its family offerings for 2025, making its vast collections more accessible to young art enthusiasts:
- Thematic Family Tours – Self-guided routes with names like “Animal Kingdom,” “Mythical Creatures,” and “Royal Children” focus on artworks that naturally appeal to younger visitors.
- Digital Treasure Hunts – The museum’s updated app includes gamified experiences where children search for specific artworks, earning virtual badges and unlocking fun facts.
- Weekend Workshops – Hands-on art sessions allow children to create projects inspired by the museum’s masterpieces (reservation required) .
- Family Rest Areas – Designated spaces throughout the museum provide comfortable seating, snack zones, and tactile activities for when museum fatigue sets in.
The museum is least crowded on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Consider the “Family Pass,” which includes skip-the-line access and activity booklets for up to two adults and three children.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Reopening
Following its devastating 2019 fire and extensive reconstruction, Notre-Dame Cathedral has reopened with new features that make it especially appealing to families:
- Junior Visitor Center – An interactive space where children can learn about Gothic architecture, stained glass, and the cathedral’s restoration through hands-on exhibits.
- Rooftop Observation Deck – A newly accessible area offering spectacular views and educational panels designed for young readers.
- Digital Time-Travel Experience – Tablet stations show the cathedral’s evolution through the centuries using child-friendly animations.
Free family tours in English are available on Saturday mornings at 10:00 AM (reservation essential).
Interactive Museums Perfect for Children
Beyond the traditional museums, Paris offers specialized institutions where hands-on learning and play take center stage.
Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
Europe’s largest science museum has undergone a significant renovation for its 40th anniversary in 2025, with expanded children’s sections:
- La Cité des Enfants – Two distinct spaces for ages 2-7 and 5-12 feature over 160 interactive exhibits focused on the body, communication, water play, and problem-solving.
- New Space Exploration Hall – This immersive area includes a Mars rover simulator, space station living quarters, and gravity experiments.
- Robotics Lab – Children can program simple robots and participate in collaborative engineering challenges.
- Sustainable Future Zone – Interactive exhibits demonstrate environmental concepts through games and simulations.
The museum is located in Parc de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, which also features playgrounds, gardens, and seasonal outdoor activities.
Musée de la Magie (Museum of Magic)
This hidden gem in the Marais district delights children with its collection of magical artifacts, optical illusions, and interactive exhibits:
- Magic Show – Included with admission, these 20-minute performances feature audience participation and age-appropriate illusions.
- Hall of Mirrors – A maze of optical illusions that creates memorable photo opportunities.
- Automata Collection – Mechanical figures from the 19th century perform surprising actions at the press of a button.
- Magic Workshop – Weekend sessions where children learn simple tricks to perform for friends and family (additional fee, ages 7+).
The museum is small but enchanting, making it perfect for a one-hour visit when exploring the Marais neighborhood.
Atelier des Lumières Junior
Following the success of its immersive digital art exhibitions, Atelier des Lumières has introduced a dedicated children’s program for 2025:
- Interactive Light Playground – Children can manipulate projected images through movement and touch, creating their own digital artwork.
- Famous Paintings Come Alive – Child-friendly versions of the main exhibitions feature animated elements and simplified narratives.
- Sound and Color Workshops – Guided sessions where children create music and visuals that are projected onto the walls.
The Junior program runs during school holidays and weekend mornings, with sessions designed for different age groups from 4-12 years.
Outdoor Adventures for Energetic Kids
Paris offers numerous green spaces and outdoor attractions where children can burn energy while parents enjoy the city’s beauty.
Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
This historic park in the 6th arrondissement has been a favorite of Parisian families for generations and continues to offer timeless attractions:
- Grand Playground – The supervised play area (small entrance fee) features climbing structures, slides, and swings for different age groups.
- Vintage Carousel – Dating from 1879, this merry-go-round includes a unique ring-catching game that children have enjoyed for generations.
- Puppet Theater – Traditional Guignol puppet shows are performed in French, but the physical comedy transcends language barriers.
- Pony Rides – Available around the central fountain on weekends and school holidays.
- Model Sailboat Rental – A beloved Parisian tradition where children navigate wooden boats across the central pond using long sticks.
The gardens also feature numerous statues, fountains, and quiet pathways perfect for a leisurely family stroll.
Parc de la Villette
Paris’s largest park has been further enhanced for 2025 with additional family amenities:
- Dragon Garden – A playground featuring a massive climbable dragon sculpture with slides and tunnels.
- Jardin des Dunes et des Vents – A landscape of hills, ropes, and climbing nets where children can test their physical abilities.
- Water Play Area – Open during summer months, this splash zone provides refreshing fun on hot days.
- Little Villette – A dedicated children’s space offering free workshops, performances, and creative activities throughout the year.
- Outdoor Cinema – During summer evenings, family-friendly films are screened on the lawn (bring a picnic blanket).
The park’s vast size makes it perfect for picnics and games, with plenty of space for children to run freely.
Paris Zoological Park (Parc Zoologique de Paris)
Following its 2025 renovation, the zoo in the Bois de Vincennes offers an immersive wildlife experience:
- Biozone Exhibits – Rather than traditional cages, animals live in naturalistic habitats organized by ecosystem.
- Great Rock – The park’s 65-meter-high artificial mountain provides a dramatic backdrop and viewing opportunities.
- Junior Zookeeper Program – Weekend sessions allow children to assist with animal care activities (ages 8-12, reservation required).
- Conservation Trail – Interactive stations explain endangered species protection through age-appropriate activities.
- Nocturnal House – A new addition for 2025 showcasing animals active after dark.
The zoo is less crowded than many central Paris attractions and offers a welcome nature break from urban sightseeing.
Rainy Day Rescues
Paris weather can be unpredictable, but these indoor attractions ensure family fun regardless of conditions.
Aquarium de Paris
Located near the Eiffel Tower, this aquarium has expanded its offerings for 2025:
- Touch Pools – Supervised areas where children can gently interact with starfish, sea urchins, and other hardy marine creatures.
- Shark Tunnel – A 360-degree viewing corridor through the main tank offers close encounters with sharks and rays.
- Jellyfish Gallery – A mesmerizing collection of these otherworldly creatures in color-changing tanks.
- Virtual Dive Experience – Using VR technology, children 8+ can simulate an underwater expedition.
- Mermaid Shows – Performed several times daily in the central tank, combining swimming artistry with conservation messages.
The aquarium is entirely underground, making it a perfect refuge during inclement weather.
Forum des Images Junior
This film center in Les Halles has created dedicated children’s programming:
- CinéKids – Screenings of international children’s films, many non-verbal or subtitled in English.
- Animation Workshop – Children create simple stop-motion films using tablets and craft materials (ages 6+, reservation required).
- Virtual Reality Corner – Age-appropriate VR experiences including underwater adventures and space exploration (ages 8+).
The center is conveniently located in the Forum des Halles shopping complex, which offers additional indoor activities and dining options.
Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Museum)
This magical collection of vintage carnival rides and games has expanded its opening hours for 2025:
- Antique Carousels – Unlike most museums, visitors can ride these beautifully restored merry-go-rounds from the Belle Époque.
- Carnival Games – Try your luck at authentic games of skill from the early 20th century.
- Automated Music Machines – Massive orchestrions and dance organs perform mechanical concerts throughout the day.
- Venetian Rooms – A fantastical space inspired by Venice, featuring optical illusions and whimsical displays.
Previously open only for guided tours, the museum now offers self-guided family visits every Wednesday and during school holidays.
Family-Friendly Accommodations in Paris 2025
Finding suitable lodging is crucial for a successful family trip. Paris offers various options that cater specifically to families’ needs.
Family-Oriented Hotels
These properties offer amenities and services designed with families in mind:
Novotel Paris Les Halles
- Location: 1st arrondissement, central and well-connected
- Family Perks: Spacious family rooms, children under 16 stay free in parents’ room, welcome gifts for kids
- Amenities: Indoor play area, children’s menu, baby equipment available
- Nearby: Forum des Halles shopping center, Pompidou Center, Seine riverbank
Hotel Residence Henri IV
- Location: 5th arrondissement, Latin Quarter
- Family Perks: Apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, family suites with separate children’s sleeping areas
- Amenities: In-room breakfast option, babysitting service, complimentary cribs
- Nearby: Luxembourg Gardens, Panthéon, Notre-Dame
Citadines Tour Eiffel Paris
- Location: 15th arrondissement, residential area
- Family Perks: One and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens, weekly housekeeping
- Amenities: Laundry facilities, grocery delivery service, outdoor terrace
- Nearby: Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, river cruises
Hotel Regent’s Garden
- Location: 17th arrondissement, quiet residential area
- Family Perks: Connecting rooms, private garden for children to play, family welcome pack
- Amenities: Complimentary afternoon snacks, honor bar for parents, baby equipment
- Nearby: Arc de Triomphe, Parc Monceau
Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals
For longer stays or larger families, apartment rentals offer space and flexibility:
Kid & Coe
This specialized platform features properties specifically designed for families, with amenities like toys, children’s books, and safety features already in place. Their Paris collection includes apartments in family-friendly neighborhoods like the Marais, Saint-Germain, and the 16th arrondissement.
Paris Perfect
This agency offers carefully vetted apartments with family-friendly features such as bathtubs (uncommon in Parisian apartments), elevators, and proximity to parks. Their concierge service can arrange family-oriented tours and babysitting.
Airbnb Plus
The verified homes in this premium category meet consistent standards for quality and comfort. Use the “family-friendly” and “suitable for children” filters to find appropriate options, and look for superhosts with positive reviews from other families.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Some Parisian districts are particularly well-suited for family stays:
7th Arrondissement
Home to the Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars, this upscale district offers wide sidewalks, excellent playgrounds, and a residential atmosphere despite its central location. The area features numerous cafés with outdoor seating where parents can relax while keeping an eye on children.
5th Arrondissement (Latin Quarter)
Adjacent to the Luxembourg Gardens, this historic district combines academic heritage with family practicality. The area features pedestrian-friendly streets, affordable restaurants, and proximity to the Natural History Museum and its excellent Menagerie (zoo).
16th Arrondissement
This residential district offers a more authentic Parisian experience away from tourist crowds. The area features excellent parks (Bois de Boulogne, Jardin d’Acclimatation), wide sidewalks, and family-oriented infrastructure. While quieter than central districts, it’s well-connected by metro.
12th Arrondissement
An up-and-coming family neighborhood featuring the Bois de Vincennes (Paris’s largest park), the Coulée Verte elevated walkway, and the Bercy Village shopping area. The district offers good value accommodations and a local atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Dining in Paris 2025
Contrary to its sophisticated culinary reputation, Paris offers numerous dining options where children are genuinely welcome.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
These establishments combine quality food with amenities that make dining with children pleasant:
Café de l’Homme
- Location: 16th arrondissement, Trocadéro
- Highlights: Spectacular Eiffel Tower views, spacious terrace, dedicated children’s menu
- Kid-Friendly Features: Coloring materials, high chairs, patient staff
- Best For: Special family meals in an impressive setting
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
- Location: Multiple locations (6th, 8th, and 10th arrondissements)
- Highlights: Simple no-menu concept (steak-frites is the only main course), quick service
- Kid-Friendly Features: Predictable food that appeals to children, efficient service minimizes waiting
- Best For: No-fuss family dinner after a busy day of sightseeing
Breizh Café
- Location: Multiple locations, original in the Marais (4th arrondissement)
- Highlights: Authentic Breton crêpes and galettes, quality ingredients
- Kid-Friendly Features: Open kitchen where children can watch crêpes being made, customizable options
- Best For: Casual lunch or dinner that satisfies both adventurous and picky eaters
Hippopotamus
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Paris
- Highlights: French steakhouse chain with reliable quality
- Kid-Friendly Features: Extensive children’s menu, activity packs, balloon animals on weekends
- Best For: Familiar comfort food when children need a break from culinary adventures
Picnic-Perfect Spots
For flexible, budget-friendly meals, Paris offers excellent picnic locations:
Champ de Mars
The expansive lawn stretching from the Eiffel Tower provides a classic Parisian picnic experience. The surrounding area features numerous food shops where you can assemble a meal, and the park includes several playgrounds where children can burn energy before or after eating.
Canal Saint-Martin
The canal’s pedestrianized banks offer a more local picnic experience, with hipster bakeries and specialty food shops nearby. The area has a relaxed atmosphere where children can watch boats navigate the locks while parents enjoy a more authentic neighborhood vibe.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
This dramatic park in the 19th arrondissement features hills, a lake, waterfalls, and abundant picnic space. Its varied terrain makes it perfect for combining a meal with exploration, and the park’s relative distance from tourist centers means you’ll be surrounded by local families.
Sweet Treats and Snack Stops
No family trip to Paris would be complete without indulging in the city’s famous desserts:
Berthillon
This legendary ice cream shop on Île Saint-Louis serves what many consider Paris’s finest glacé. The original location often has lines, but numerous nearby cafés serve their products. The fruit sorbets are particularly exceptional.
Ladurée
Famous for colorful macarons, Ladurée’s tea salons offer a refined setting for a special treat. The Champs-Élysées location features a dedicated children’s menu for “Le Petit Ladurée” including miniature pastries and hot chocolate.
La Chocolaterie Cyril Lignac
Celebrity chef Cyril Lignac’s chocolate shops offer exceptional treats in a contemporary setting. The hot chocolate is thick enough to stand a spoon in, and the shops offer viewing windows where children can watch chocolatiers at work.
Practical Tips for Families Visiting Paris 2025
Getting Around Paris with Children
Navigating Paris with kids requires some planning, but the city’s transportation system offers several family-friendly options:
Metro and RER
- Children under 4 travel free on all public transportation.
- Children aged 4-10 qualify for half-price tickets.
- Family Ticket (Ticket Famille) offers discounted travel for families of 4-5 people on weekends and holidays.
- Stroller Considerations: Many metro stations lack elevators, making navigation challenging with strollers. Consider bringing a lightweight, foldable stroller or baby carrier for metro travel.
- Accessibility Stations: For 2025, the RATP has expanded its list of fully accessible stations with elevators to include major tourist hubs like Trocadéro, Opéra, and Châtelet.
Buses
- Generally more stroller-friendly than the metro, with designated spaces for pushchairs.
- Routes 42, 69, and 72 pass many major attractions and offer above-ground sightseeing opportunities.
- The new electric bus fleet introduced for 2025 features lower floors for easier boarding with children.
Batobus
- This hop-on, hop-off boat service along the Seine connects major attractions including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame.
- All boats are stroller-accessible and offer outdoor seating perfect for sightseeing.
- Day passes allow unlimited travel, making this a practical and scenic transportation option for families.
Taxis and Ride Services
- Paris taxis are required to accept passengers with children, but don’t typically provide car seats.
- The “G7 Family” taxi service offers vehicles equipped with child seats (must be booked in advance).
- Uber Family is available in Paris, providing cars with appropriate child restraints for an additional fee.
Paris with Babies and Toddlers
Traveling with very young children presents unique challenges, but Paris offers several amenities to make the experience smoother:
Baby Changing Facilities
- All major department stores (Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, BHV) offer well-maintained baby care rooms.
- The “Paris Baby Friendly” app maps changing facilities throughout the city.
- Many parks feature dedicated baby changing areas, including Luxembourg Gardens and Parc de la Villette.
Baby Supplies
- Monoprix supermarkets (found throughout the city) carry major diaper brands, baby food, and essentials.
- Pharmacies (marked by green crosses) stock specialized baby care products and can provide advice.
- For organic options, Naturalia and Bio c’ Bon stores offer natural baby products.
Toddler-Specific Activities
- Jardin d’Acclimatation in the Bois de Boulogne features rides and attractions specifically designed for children under 5.
- Cité des Enfants at the Science Museum has a dedicated section for ages 2-7 with appropriate sensory activities.
- Puppet shows at Luxembourg Gardens and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont captivate even the youngest audiences.
Paris with Teens
Older children and teenagers can appreciate different aspects of Paris, with activities that balance education with entertainment:
Tech-Forward Experiences
- Atelier des Lumières – Immersive digital art exhibitions appeal to the Instagram generation.
- VR Paris – This virtual reality center near Centre Pompidou offers historical recreations of Paris through the ages.
- Gaîté Lyrique – A digital arts center with interactive exhibitions focused on the intersection of technology and creativity.
Active Adventures
- Fat Tire Bike Tours – Family-friendly cycling tours cover major attractions with engaging guides and appropriate safety measures.
- AccroCamp – This treetop adventure course in the Bois de Boulogne offers varying difficulty levels suitable for teens.
- Seine Kayaking – Newly permitted for 2025, guided kayak tours provide a unique perspective of the city (ages 12+).
Shopping Districts
- Forum des Halles – This central shopping complex houses brands popular with teenagers and a multi-screen cinema.
- Le Marais – Trendy boutiques and vintage shops appeal to fashion-conscious teens.
- Shakespeare and Company – This historic English-language bookstore offers a charming atmosphere and young adult section.
Money-Saving Tips for Families
Paris can be expensive, but several strategies can help manage costs for family travelers:
Paris Museum Pass
This multi-day pass covers entry to over 50 museums and monuments, with no waiting in ticket lines. Children under 18 enter most national museums free, so calculate whether the adult passes will save money based on your planned itinerary.
Paris Visite Travel Card
Unlimited travel on public transportation for 1-5 days, with additional discounts at some attractions. The card covers all zones, including Disneyland Paris and Versailles.
Free Museum Sundays
National museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. While crowds can be larger, this represents significant savings for families.
Navigo Easy Card
This rechargeable card allows flexible loading of tickets and passes, with family packages available for weekends and holidays.
Day Trips from Paris for Families
The surrounding region offers excellent excursions that complement a Paris stay:
Disneyland Paris
Located 32 km east of Paris, Disneyland Paris has expanded for its 35th anniversary in 2025:
- New Frozen Land – This immersive area recreates Arendelle with two new attractions and character experiences.
- Avengers Campus – The Marvel-themed land features interactive superhero encounters and high-tech rides.
- Disney Junior Dream Factory – Live show featuring characters from popular preschool programs.
- Premier Access – New for 2025, this system allows pre-booking attraction times to minimize waiting.
The resort is easily accessible via direct RER A train from central Paris (approximately 35 minutes). Consider staying on-site for early park access if planning multiple days.
Palace of Versailles
The historic royal residence has enhanced its family offerings for 2025:
- Family Guided Tour – Interactive tours designed specifically for children, with stories of the palace’s youngest residents.
- Royal Children’s Apartments – Newly opened rooms showcasing how royal children lived, with period toys and games.
- Garden Passport – A self-guided activity booklet leading families through the magnificent gardens and fountains.
- Marie-Antoinette’s Estate – The Queen’s rustic retreat includes a working farm with historic animal breeds.
Versailles is reached via RER C train (approximately 40 minutes from central Paris). Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, and consider renting bikes or an electric cart to explore the extensive gardens.
Parc Astérix
Based on the beloved French comic books, this theme park offers a more authentically European alternative to Disneyland:
- Themed Areas – The park recreates ancient Gaul, Rome, Greece, Egypt, and Viking territories with appropriate architecture and attractions.
- Balanced Attractions – The park offers a mix of thrilling roller coasters for teens and gentler rides for younger children.
- Live Entertainment – Stunt shows, parades, and character interactions throughout the day.
- Water Play – The expanded Aquatic Zone for 2025 provides refreshing activities during summer visits.
Located 35 km north of Paris, the park is accessible via direct shuttle buses from central Paris or by train to Charles de Gaulle Airport followed by a short shuttle ride.
Seasonal Considerations for Family Visits
Paris offers different advantages throughout the year for family travelers:
Spring (April-June)
- Pros: Moderate crowds, comfortable temperatures, blooming gardens, longer daylight hours
- Cons: Unpredictable rain showers, gradually increasing tourist numbers in June
- Special Events: Easter egg hunts in major parks, outdoor puppet theaters reopen, spring carnival at Tuileries Gardens
Summer (July-August)
- Pros: Warm weather, Paris Plages (temporary beaches along the Seine), extended attraction hours, outdoor events
- Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices, potential heat waves, many local businesses close in August
- Special Events: Outdoor cinema at Parc de la Villette, Bastille Day celebrations (July 14), Summer Festival
Fall (September-October)
- Pros: Decreasing crowds, pleasant temperatures, cultural season begins, harvest-themed activities
- Cons: Increasing chance of rain, shorter daylight hours by October
- Special Events: European Heritage Days (September), Science Festival, Halloween celebrations at parks and museums
Winter (November-March)
- Pros: Fewest tourists, lowest prices, festive decorations (November-January), winter charm
- Cons: Cold temperatures, shorter days, some outdoor attractions closed or limited
- Special Events: Christmas markets, holiday window displays, ice skating rinks, winter circus performances
Connecting Paris Family Experiences with Other Attractions
For families seeking to explore beyond the typical tourist experience, Paris offers unique opportunities to combine child-friendly activities with authentic local culture.
Families interested in discovering the authentic side of Paris beyond the major attractions should consider exploring the hidden neighborhoods and secret spots detailed in our Paris Off the Beaten Path 2025 guide. Many of these lesser-known areas, such as the Butte-aux-Cailles with its street art and the magical Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Museum), offer enchanting experiences that children will remember long after the vacation ends.
For environmentally conscious families, our Paris Sustainable Tourism 2025 guide highlights eco-friendly transportation options, green spaces, and sustainable activities that allow families to enjoy the city while minimizing their environmental impact. The guide’s sections on car-free zones and urban parks are particularly relevant for families seeking safe outdoor spaces where children can play freely.
Conclusion: Creating Lasting Family Memories in Paris
Paris offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, interactive museums, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that appeal to visitors of all ages. By balancing must-see attractions with child-friendly activities and building in time for relaxation, families can create a Parisian experience that satisfies everyone’s interests and energy levels.
The city’s continued investment in family infrastructure—from improved museum programs to expanded green spaces—makes 2025 an ideal time for a family visit. Whether exploring the scientific wonders at Cité des Sciences, picnicking beneath the Eiffel Tower, or discovering the magic of historic carousels, Paris offers countless opportunities for shared discoveries and joyful moments.
With thoughtful planning and the practical tips outlined in this guide, parents can navigate potential challenges and focus on creating the magical experiences that will become cherished family memories. After all, experiencing the wonder of Paris through a child’s eyes offers a fresh perspective on even the most familiar landmarks, reminding us all to approach the world with curiosity, enthusiasm, and joy.
