Things to do in Paris with kids: discover our family-friendly ideas
On a trip to Paris with your children? Set off to explore the capital, its most vibrant neighborhoods, its iconic museums and walks, as well as its more unusual family-friendly activities. An ideal city for a holiday with children, Paris offers a wide range of experiences that are both fun, cultural, and immersive. From famous landmarks, hands-on workshops, and surprising exhibitions to green spaces where they can let off steam, every day brings a new adventure. It’s a perfect opportunity for your children to learn more about the history of Paris and France, while having fun along the way!
1. Meet the animals at Paris Zoo
Why not make the most of your family stay in the capital by visiting the Parc Zoologique de Paris? Located near the Porte Dorée metro station, this fun and engaging activity is sure to delight your children.
The park’s five biozones recreate the animals’ natural ecosystems, ensuring their well-being. This little haven is home to around 180 species and more than 2,000 animals. Children will be able to meet zebras, meerkats, lions, jaguars, and seals, not to mention the coral reef aquarium, where they can learn all about coral reef conservation. A true journey of discovery in the heart of Paris.
To make the experience even more fun and immersive, a variety of family activities are also offered: breakfast with giraffes, junior keeper experiences, photography walks… The Parc Zoologique de Paris is a truly unique Parisian outing that will leave your children with unforgettable memories.
Price: Tickets are €22, €17 for children aged 3–12, and free for children under 3.
2. Learning through play at the Cité des enfants
For a fun, unusual and family-friendly outing, head to the Cité des Enfants, located inside the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in La Villette (19th arrondissement). Here, there is no shortage of activities for children, all designed to help them learn while having fun. Two dedicated areas are available: one for ages 2–7 (closed for renovations until June 2026), and another for ages 5–10, which has just reopened after several months of refurbishment. This new indoor experience is built around five immersive worlds—Under Over, Water Games, Fairground, Tinkering Workshop, and Weird House—offering a truly sensory and interactive journey.
In the “Animated Science” space, families and children can explore topics in more depth or engage with a science mediator. A meaningful moment of connection between generations, in a place designed for learning, playing, and being amazed together. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions. A visit the whole family will enjoy!
Price: Admission €15, reduced rates available.
3. Strolling around the Tuileries Garden
Going for a walk around the Tuileries Garden, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, is an activity particularly enjoyed by families—and with good reason! With its wide paths lined with statues, this garden is among the capital’s must-visit places. Did you know that some of the sculptures were created by master sculptors Maillol, Rodin, and Giacometti? A great way of introducing your children to art without spending all day inside museums. To stimulate their sense of discovery, you could also tell them about the history of the Tuileries Palace, which once stood between two of the Louvre’s pavilions, Flore and Marsan.
In the gardens during winter, carousels and other attractions bring joy to both children and adults, who can also admire the view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. During summer, you can hire small sailing boats to glide across the ponds. And the good news is that the park is open every day of the year!
4. Experience the Moulin Rouge show in Montmartre
After a walking tour of the Montmartre district, why not extend your visit with a more unusual family experience? Attending a show at the Moulin Rouge means enjoying a truly Parisian experience in a legendary venue, right in the heart of this iconic neighbourhood.
Step into the magic of an extraordinary performance: meet the Doriss Girls, admire the handmade costumes—true works of art showcasing French craftsmanship—be amazed by spectacular acts, and feel the energy of the famous French Cancan. A shared moment to enjoy with the family, for an unforgettable outing in Paris.
To make the experience even more immersive, consider the dinner-and-show option, which combines culinary discovery with a festive atmosphere.
⚠️ Please note: children under 6 are not allowed in the theatre.
✅ Our tip: book your tickets in advance to avoid any disappointment.
5. Visit the Grande Galerie de l'Evolution
In the 5th arrondissement, the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution at the Jardin des Plantes is a must-see in Paris, especially for a family outing with children. This iconic landmark invites visitors of all ages on an immersive journey through the living world, across more than 6,000 m² spread over three levels.
Levels 0 and 1, located in the central nave, showcase the diversity of animal species in their natural habitats—oceans, forests, savannahs. Level 2 focuses on the impact of humans on ecosystems, while Level 3 explores the major mechanisms of evolution. A visually striking and educational experience suitable for all ages.
Also worth discovering is the room dedicated to endangered or extinct species, a powerful exhibition space featuring more than 250 rare and impressive taxidermy specimens.
For a more hands-on and sensory experience, head to the Galerie des Enfants (ages 6–12), designed as a fun and educational two-level trail. Young visitors explore four environments: the city, the river, the tropical forest, and the planet. It’s a great way to raise children’s awareness of biodiversity through play, hands-on activities, and discovery in an indoor setting.
Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions that shape the museum’s programme throughout the year. A family-friendly Parisian visit that is as educational as it is engaging, at the crossroads of science, leisure, and discovery.
Price: Tickets €13, reduced rate €10.
6. Hop aboard a bateau-mouche on the Seine
If you want to get off the beaten track and discover a different side of Paris, what could be better than sailing on the Seine? Head off on the discovery of the capital’s most beautiful sights on board a bateau-mouche. The guided river tours will show you everything you need to know about the City of Lights: Île Saint-Louis, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Place Dauphine, Grand Palais, Eiffel Tower… A cruise along the Seine that the children will remember for years to come!
Sightseeing cruise pass from 14 €, 6 € for under 12s, and free for under 4s.
7. End on a high note with a musical!
Among the unusual activities to enjoy in Paris with a teenager, attending a musical is an excellent choice. The capital offers a wide range of shows, from original French productions and Broadway adaptations to traditional operettas and more contemporary performances.
Watching a musical in Paris is a truly social and cultural experience. It also means immersing yourself in a festive atmosphere that sparks both imagination and emotion. Whether on stage or in the audience, this unique experience leaves a lasting impression—a true Paris souvenir to take with you.
To stay up to date with the latest shows and yearly programming, don’t hesitate to check dedicated websites.
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