3-Day Itinerary for Visiting Paris with Kids: The Perfect Family Adventure

Planning a family trip to Paris? Whether you're traveling with toddlers, school-aged children, or teens, the City of Light offers endless opportunities for fun, discovery, and delicious food. From interactive museums to carousels, playgrounds, and crepe stops, Paris can be magical for kids — if you know where to go.

Here's a 3-day Paris itinerary for families that balances sightseeing, playtime, and relaxation — so both parents and kids enjoy every moment of their Paris family trip.

Day 1 – Classic Paris Landmarks Made Fun for Kids

Start your adventure with the city's most iconic sights, but at a child's pace — with enough breaks, snacks, and surprises along the way.

Morning: Eiffel Tower and Seine Views

Begin early at the Eiffel Tower, ideally before 10 a.m. to skip long lines. The views will mesmerize your kids — and the climb becomes a fun challenge for older children.

Afterwards, let them burn some energy at the Champ de Mars playground, right at the foot of the tower. There's space to run, swings to enjoy, and the atmosphere is joyful year-round.

Snack stop: Head to Carette  at Trocadéro for buttery croissants and hot chocolate, or enjoy a crepe from a nearby stand — a Parisian ritual every kid loves.

Afternoon: Boat Cruise & Orsay Museum

Take a Bateaux Mouches cruise on the Seine. The one-hour trip gives everyone a relaxing overview of Paris landmarks — Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and more — from the water. It's stroller-friendly and perfect for all ages.

Next, visit the Musée d'Orsay. The museum's grand clock windows and colorful Impressionist art are a hit even with young visitors. The building itself, a former train station, feels like an adventure to explore.

Lunch idea: Try Les Antiquaires near Orsay — casual, good food, and welcoming to families.

Evening: Family Dinner & Sunset Walk

End the day with dinner at BigLove Trattoria (lively Italian, kid-approved) or Le Relais de l'Entrecôte for Paris's famous steak-frites — simple and quick service.

Then, stroll across the Pont Alexandre III bridge at sunset — it's safe, scenic, and often has street musicians playing. Kids love watching the sparkling Eiffel Tower lights turn on at night (every hour on the hour). For a bonus treat, visit the Tuileries Garden playground, which is beautifully lit in the evenings and perfect for kids in Paris to burn off some energy before bedtime.

Day 2 – Nature, Playgrounds & Hands-On Museums

This day is all about exploring Paris's greener side and learning through play.

Morning: Jardin du Luxembourg

Head to the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most kid-friendly parks in Europe. Your children can:

• Sail model boats on the central pond
• Ride ponies or spin on the carousel
• Climb and play in the large Luxembourg Gardens playground

Parents can relax by the fountain or enjoy a coffee from the garden café while watching their kids in Paris have a blast.

Treat stop: Walk to Angelina Paris for their world-famous hot chocolate and pastries. It's indulgent, but worth it.

Afternoon: Science & Discovery

Take the Metro to La Villette in the 19th arrondissement and visit the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, Europe's largest science museum. It has interactive zones for all ages — from toddlers to teens — including a planetarium and hands-on experiments.

Alternatively, explore the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle in the Latin Quarter. The massive dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and exotic animals fascinate children of all ages.

Lunch tip: Grab sandwiches or salads from Maison Landemaine bakery nearby and enjoy a quick picnic.

Evening: Latin Quarter Family Dinner

The Latin Quarter offers relaxed family-friendly dining. Try Chez Gladines for Basque-style comfort food or Le Petit Cler for French classics in a cozy bistro setting.

After dinner: Take a ride on the Tuileries Garden carousel or the one near Hotel de Ville — both beautifully lit in the evenings and a perfect way to end a day in Paris with children.

Day 3 – Hidden Gems & Local Parisian Experiences

End your Paris adventure by discovering neighborhoods where locals live, play, and relax.

Morning: Montmartre Magic

Begin your day in Montmartre, the artistic heart of Paris. Take the funicular instead of climbing the stairs — it's a small thrill for kids and saves energy.
At the top, explore Place du Tertre, where painters set up their easels and draw portraits. Children often enjoy watching the artists at work.

Breakfast stop: Pain Pain or Hardware Société — both serve pastries that even picky eaters will adore.

Visit the Sacre-Cœur Basilica for stunning panoramic views (free entry), and let the kids play on the grassy slope below.

Afternoon: Local Parks & Indoor Fun

Head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, one of Paris's most exciting parks with waterfalls, bridges, and climbing paths. For smaller kids, Jardin d'Acclimatation in the 16th arrondissement is a wonderland — with rides, animals, and play zones.

If it's raining, swap outdoor time for Aquaboulevard, Paris's huge indoor water park, perfect for energetic children.

For a taste of local Parisian life, take a stroll through the charming Rue Cler neighborhood. This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with cafes, cheese shops, and bakeries, offering a perfect glimpse into everyday Parisian life for families.

Evening: Family Farewell to Paris

Wrap up your trip with a memorable meal at Pink Mamma (Italian restaurant with stunning interiors) or Le Bistro des Dames, which has a charming garden terrace.

End the evening with ice cream at Berthillon on Île Saint-Louis — a sweet finale to your Paris family adventure.

Practical Tips for Visiting Paris with Children

• Metro & transport: Children under 4 travel free; ages 4–10 get 50% off. Use strollers that fold easily for metro access.
• Museums: Many are free for children and EU residents under 26. Check online for skip-the-line options.
• Dining: French restaurants often start dinner around 7 p.m., but brasseries and creperies open earlier.
• Parks: Most public gardens close at dusk. Playgrounds are safe and clean, with restrooms nearby.
• Weather: Always have a plan B — indoor museums, play cafés, or aquariums are great for rainy days.

Where to Stay in Paris with Kids

Choose accommodation near central neighborhoods like Saint-Germain, Le Marais, or the Latin Quarter for easy access to most attractions. Staying central minimizes travel time and lets you pop back for naps or breaks.

At Paris Vacation Rentals, you'll find family-ready apartments — spacious, equipped with kitchens, and located in safe, lively areas near parks, cafés, and attractions. Perfect for parents who want flexibility and comfort during their Paris stay with children.

Final Thoughts

Paris is one of those rare cities that delights both children and adults. From feeding ducks in the Luxembourg Gardens to watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, it’s a trip full of small wonders your family will remember for years.

So pack your walking shoes, grab a baguette for the park, and get ready to explore the most family-friendly side of Paris — three unforgettable days in the City of Light.