What to Do in Paris with Kids in 3 Days: A Family-Friendly Guide

Planning a trip to Paris with kids? You're in for an unforgettable adventure that blends culture, history, and fun – all while keeping the little ones entertained. Whether you're sipping hot chocolate by the Eiffel Tower in winter or enjoying a sunny afternoon in Luxembourg Gardens during summer, Paris has something magical for every family.

As parents who love to travel, we know that seeing a city through a child’s eyes makes it more vivid, more spontaneous, and yes—more unpredictable. That’s why we’ve carefully crafted this 3-day Paris with kids itinerary that balances must-see sights with interactive experiences your children will actually enjoy. Plus, we’ll share practical tips on how to get around Paris with kids, where to eat, what to do by season, and the best family-friendly places to stay.

Let’s dive in.

What to Do in Paris with Kids

Table of contents

• What to Do in Paris with Kids
• Day 1: Iconic Paris with a Family Twist
• Day 2: Museums, Gardens, and Sweet Treats
• Day 3: A Dash of Magic and Some Shopping
• Paris with Kids – 3-Day Family Itinerary Checklist
• Day 3: A Dash of Magic and Some Shopping
• How to Get Around Paris with Kids
• What to Do in Paris with Kids in Winter
• What to Do in Paris with Kids in Summer
• Where to Eat in Paris with Kids
• Where to Stay: Best Hotels for Paris with Kids
• Paris with Kids: In Conclusion

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Day 1: Iconic Paris with a Family Twist

If you're exploring Paris with kids, your first day is all about balancing those iconic landmarks with kid-friendly fun. Yes, the Eiffel Tower is a must, but there are ways to make it genuinely exciting for the whole family without the stress.

Morning – Eiffel Tower & Champ de Mars

Start your day early to beat the crowds at the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic sights in Paris. For families, booking skip-the-line tickets is a game-changer. Kids will love the glass floor on the first level—it’s thrilling without being scary. Elevators take you all the way to the top, but if your kids are adventurous and energetic, climbing the stairs to the second floor is a fun challenge with amazing photo ops along the way.

After your visit, walk over to Champ de Mars, the sprawling park behind the tower. This is one of the best picnic spots in Paris with kids. Let them run free, grab snacks from a nearby bakery or street vendor, and enjoy your croissants with a postcard-perfect view.

Bonus Tip: For an educational twist, tell them stories about Gustave Eiffel or let them use a simple Paris-themed scavenger hunt app to engage more deeply with the surroundings.

Midday – Trocadéro & Carousel

Head across the river to the Trocadéro Gardens, where you’ll find more green space, fountains, and one of the most photographed views of the Eiffel Tower. There’s a lovely old-fashioned carousel here that younger children will adore. It’s a short ride, but adds a whimsical touch to your day and makes for great photos.

Lunch can be enjoyed at Café de l’Homme (if you want a beautiful terrace and don’t mind a slightly upscale menu), or grab sandwiches to go and sit on the steps with a view.

Afternoon – Seine River Cruise

A great way to rest little legs while still sightseeing is by hopping on a Seine river cruise. Companies like Bateaux Mouches and Vedettes du Pont Neuf offer hour-long tours with commentary. The boats glide past landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and Musée d'Orsay, making it a perfect low-energy way to cover a lot of ground.

Kids are usually fascinated by the moving scenery, and parents get to enjoy a relaxing moment in the heart of the city. It’s a win-win when doing Paris with kids.

Evening – Dinner with a View

Cap off the day with dinner at a family-friendly bistro. Café Constant and Le Petit Cler are solid choices within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower. They offer approachable French cuisine—think roast chicken, pommes frites, and delicious desserts—all in a casual setting where kids won’t feel out of place.

If the kids still have energy to burn, take one last stroll around Pont Alexandre III, which is beautifully lit in the evening and makes for a quiet, magical walk back toward your accommodation.

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Day 2: Museums, Gardens, and Sweet Treats

Paris with kids doesn’t mean skipping culture—it means finding the right places where curiosity is rewarded, hands-on fun is encouraged, and the promise of a sweet treat keeps everyone moving. Day 2 blends engaging museums with outdoor play, making it ideal for kids of all ages.

Morning – Museum Time They’ll Actually Love

Start your day in the 5th arrondissement at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle (National Museum of Natural History), a paradise for curious kids. This isn't your typical "look-but-don’t-touch" museum. Inside the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution, kids are awestruck by the massive animal displays, dinosaur skeletons, and immersive exhibits that feel more like a storybook than a science lecture.

For younger kids (3–7), head to the Galerie des Enfants, which offers interactive learning zones about animals, habitats, and the environment. It's hands-on, colorful, and tailored to short attention spans.

Alternative Option:
If your kids are more into technology and science, take the metro to the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in Parc de la Villette. It has two entire floors just for children (ages 2–7 and 5–12) packed with activities, experiments, and play zones.

Midday – Crêpes & Treats in Le Marais

After a busy morning indoors, head to Le Marais for lunch. This charming neighborhood is full of kid-friendly cafés and crêperies. Breizh Café is a standout, offering savory and sweet crêpes that satisfy even picky eaters. They also have high chairs and a casual atmosphere that works well for families.

Post-lunch, don’t skip a stop at L’Éclair de Génie for one of the best éclairs in Paris. These little masterpieces are as pretty as they are delicious and a guaranteed hit with kids.

Afternoon – Play and Relax in the Gardens

A short walk away lies the , a true gem when exploring Paris with kids. This isn’t just a park—it's a complete experience:

• Playground (Poussin Vert): Arguably the best playground in the city. While there’s a small entry fee, the climbing structures, zip lines, and sandboxes make it worth every cent.
• Sailboats in the Pond: Rent a tiny wooden sailboat and let the kids push them around the pond with long sticks—it's an old Parisian tradition and incredibly fun.
• Puppet Shows: On certain days, the Théâtre des Marionnettes hosts classic puppet performances, usually in French, but the humor and action are universal.

Parents can relax with a café crème from a nearby kiosk while the kids burn off steam.

Late Afternoon – A Sweet Treat & A Cultural Bonus

On your way back from the park, stop by Pierre Hermé or Maison Aleph for a next-level pastry experience. Macarons, mini tartlets, and pistachio cream puffs? Yes, please.

If the kids still have energy and patience, consider a quick visit to Sainte-Chapelle. The stained glass windows will dazzle them, and it’s usually a quick in-and-out visit.

Evening – Dinner in the Latin Quarter

Wrap up your second day in the Latin Quarter, a lively, student-filled district that’s surprisingly family-friendly. Head to La Petite Perigourdine or Chez Gladines for hearty French comfort food. These spots are warm, welcoming, and have generous portions—perfect after a full day of walking.

If it’s still light out, take a short walk along the Seine River to see the street artists, bouquinistes (those iconic green book stalls), and performers that make the area so alive. It’s a soft, memorable ending to your day of discovering Paris with kids.

Day 3: A Dash of Magic and Some Shopping

By now, your family has seen the big sights and settled into the rhythm of Paris with kids—so Day 3 is all about playful exploration, a little retail therapy (yes, even with kids), and ending the trip with a bit of enchantment.

Morning – Magical Parks or a Taste of Amusement

Start your day with something a little whimsical. Head to the Jardin d’Acclimatation, a delightful amusement park tucked into the Bois de Boulogne, just west of the city center. With vintage carousels, mini roller coasters, pony rides, a petting zoo, and splash zones in summer, it's ideal for kids from toddlers to tweens.

Bonus: There’s also a small science museum inside and interactive workshops depending on the day. If you're visiting Paris with kids who love both thrill and imagination, this is the place to go.

Alternative Option:
If you prefer a more nature-oriented morning, visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. It’s one of the most unique parks in Paris—full of cliffs, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and even a hidden temple overlooking the city. It’s a favorite with local families and far less touristy.

Midday – Picnic or Family-Friendly Lunch Spot

If you're at Jardin d’Acclimatation, grab a picnic from Maison de la Pâtisserie or one of the on-site food stands and eat under the trees. If you're in Buttes-Chaumont or the northeast, stop for a meal at Rosa Bonheur, a casual restaurant right inside the park with great food and open-air seating.

Prefer to sit down indoors? Le Pain Quotidien (various locations) is always reliable for organic, kid-friendly meals and high chairs.

Afternoon – A Little Shopping (That Kids Won’t Hate)

Now for something a little different: introduce your kids to Parisian shopping—but in a way they’ll enjoy.

Start at Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann. The stained glass dome alone is worth the visit, and the rooftop terrace offers one of the best free panoramic views in all of Paris. Inside, the toy section is fantastic (look for the Lego section and the plush animal walls), and you can reward the kids with a treat from the ground-floor patisserie.

You can also stop at Merci in Le Marais if you’re looking for something stylish and child-friendly. They have a little reading nook and quirky design toys that make browsing more fun.

If you want a quieter experience, visit the Covered Passages (Passages Couverts) near Grands Boulevards—like Passage Jouffroy. They're filled with old toy shops, vintage book stalls, and charming cafés.

Late Afternoon – A Last Cultural Stop

Make one final cultural stop that's light and visually stunning. Two great options:

• Atelier des Lumières – A digital art museum where kids can move around, interact, and be immersed in swirling masterpieces projected on the walls. It’s modern, mesmerizing, and perfect for short attention spans.
• Montmartre’s Place du Tertre – Wind your way up to the artist-lined square for a quick sketch portrait, street performers, and a little souvenir shopping. The climb is fun (or take the funicular), and the views over Paris are incredible.

Evening – A Magical Last Meal

End your final night in Paris with kids with a meal that feels special but not formal. Chez Janou near Place des Vosges is a cozy, kid-welcoming bistro known for its big bowls of chocolate mousse and Provençal dishes. Another great option: Le Loir dans la Théière, a quirky café with mismatched furniture, a warm vibe, and incredible quiches and desserts.

If you’re up for it, take one last walk along the Seine River, or revisit the Eiffel Tower to see it sparkle on the hour after sunset. It’s a perfect full-circle moment for your Parisian family adventure.

Paris with Kids – 3-Day Family Itinerary Checklist

Day 1: Iconic Paris with a Family Twist

Morning

• Eiffel Tower – skip-the-line tickets
• Glass floor experience on Level 1
• Climb to Level 2 (optional for active kids)
• Picnic/snack at Champ de Mars

Midday

• Trocadéro Gardens – great photo ops & running space
• Ride the carousel at Trocadéro
• Lunch at Café de l’Homme or takeaway sandwiches

Afternoon

• Seine River Cruise (Bateaux Mouches / Vedettes du Pont Neuf)

Evening

• Dinner near Eiffel Tower (Café Constant, Le Petit Cler)
• Optional evening stroll along Pont Alexandre III

Transport Tips:
Metro Line 6 (Trocadéro), stroller-friendly paths at Champ de Mars

Day 2: Museums, Gardens, and Sweet Treats

Morning

• Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (or Cité des Sciences)
• Explore interactive exhibits (Galerie des Enfants or Cité des Enfants)

Midday

• Lunch at Breizh Café in Le Marais
• Dessert stop: L’Éclair de Génie or Maison Aleph

Afternoon

• Luxembourg Gardens:
  • Playground (Poussin Vert)
  • Rent toy sailboats
  • Puppet show (check schedule)

Evening

• Dinner in Latin Quarter (La Petite Perigourdine / Chez Gladines)
• Walk along the Seine with street performers and artists

Transport Tips:
Metro Line 10 to Cluny-La Sorbonne or RER B to Luxembourg station

Day 3: A Dash of Magic and Some Shopping

Morning

• Visit Jardin d’Acclimatation (rides, animals, shows)
  or
• Explore Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (bridges, cliffs, playgrounds)

Midday

• Picnic in the park or lunch at Rosa Bonheur / Le Pain Quotidien

Afternoon

• Galeries Lafayette – dome view & toy section
• Covered Passages (Jouffroy) – vintage toy shops
• Merci concept store (optional)

Late Afternoon

• Atelier des Lumières (immersive digital art)
  or
• Montmartre – artists at Place du Tertre, funicular ride

Evening

• Final dinner at Chez Janou / Le Loir dans la Théière
• Eiffel Tower sparkle (on the hour after sunset)

Transport Tips:
Metro Line 2 to Anvers (Montmartre), Metro Line 1 for Le Marais & Bastille

Packing Reminders for Paris with Kids:

• Lightweight stroller
• Refillable water bottles
• Scavenger hunt or coloring book
• Reusable picnic blanket
• Portable phone charger for maps/photos

How to Get Around Paris with Kids

The metro system is easy to use and very affordable, even with kids. Strollers can be tricky on the stairs, so opt for a lightweight umbrella-style stroller if needed. Buses are another good option, especially for seeing the city while sitting down. And don’t underestimate walking—Paris is surprisingly walkable, and little ones will enjoy spotting details along the way.

What to Do in Paris with Kids in Winter

Winter in Paris is cozy and charming. Take them ice skating at Hôtel de Ville, visit the Christmas markets at Champs de Mars or Jardin des Tuileries, and sip hot chocolate at Angelina Paris (it’s legendary!). Indoor attractions like the Louvre and aquariums are perfect for chilly days.

What to Do in Paris with Kids in Summer

Summer means outdoor picnics, open-air cinemas, and extended park hours. Go treasure-hunting at the Marché aux Puces, or rent a pedal boat in the Bois de Boulogne. Many museums offer free activities for kids in summer, so check their schedules ahead of time.

Where to Eat in Paris with Kids

Paris is incredibly food-focused, but that doesn’t mean it’s all escargot and wine. Many brasseries and cafés have kids' menus. Bakeries like Du Pain et des Idées are perfect for grab-and-go pastries, and falafel shops in Le Marais offer cheap, quick meals kids often love.

Where to Stay: Best Hotels for Paris with Kids

When traveling to Paris with kids, location is everything. Consider staying in Le Marais, Saint-Germain, or Montmartre, which are central and full of charm. Look for family-friendly hotels with apartment-style rooms, like Citadines, Hotel Recamier, or Hotel Le Six. Booking a place near metro stations will also make getting around a breeze.

Looking for other family travel destinations? Check out these guides to cities in the UK and Ireland to visit with kids and cities in Scandinavia to visit with kids.

Paris with Kids: In Conclusion

Paris with kids is not just possible—it’s a dream. From iconic monuments to quirky hidden gems, the city offers a little magic for every age. The key is to plan just enough while leaving space for spontaneity. After all, some of the best memories are made when you least expect them.

Bon voyage, and happy travels with your little ones!