Best things to do in Paris with kids

Paris might be the city of love, but it’s not just couples that are drawn to the iconic wide boulevards, pretty riverbank, and crêpe stands at every turn. The French capital is a wonderful place to visit as a family, with countless parks, museums, activities, and attractions that are specially designed for children to enjoy. Pack up the youngsters and make memories to last a lifetime - here are seven things to in Paris with kids.

If you are planning to go in Paris, here are the best thing you should do.

1. Disneyland Paris

If anywhere is going to thrill the kids, it’s the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’. Disneyland Paris is just outside of the city, but the magical worlds of Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland, Discoveryland, and Main Street USA are undoubtedly worth the journey. While this is one of the best things to do in Paris with kids, the grownups will love channelling their inner child just as much as the little ones. You can also double up on the fun and visit Walt Disney Studios on the same day, where the enchanting world of movies comes to life.

2. Jardin du Luxembourg

Jardin du Luxembourg might be the most historical park in Paris, with a history dating back to 1612, but it’s a popular attraction for the little ones. The sights and activities are seemingly endless – rent sailboats, watch puppet shows, ride ponies, ride the city’s oldest carousel, and watch the kids clamber around the children’s play area.

3. Parc Zoologique de Paris

Watch the little ones marvel at herds of giraffes, bamboo lemurs, mighty rhinos, and 180 other species in the Parc Zoologique de Paris. The zoo recently underwent a transformation – the visitor trail is designed to replicate the animals’ native habitats, from the tropical scenery of Guyana to the plains of Sudan. Families are invited to learn about the animals, where they come from, conservation, and the difference in biozones.

4. Musée de la Magie

Musée de la Magie, or the Museum of Magic, is a small but enchanting insight into the world of magic. Even those that don’t have a particular interest in magic will be intrigued by this place, with seven rooms full of curious and ‘magical’ objects, such as trick materials and old magic boxes. A live magic show is included in the entrance fee, with a performer mesmerising the kids with illusions, close-up tricks, and card tricks. There's a shop with impressive magic materials for beginners, so the youngsters can wow their friends back home.

5. Jardin d’Acclimatation

Jardin d’Acclimatation is a park within a park, nestled in the expansive Bois de Boulogne. The attraction is a huge hit with the little ones, with enough to keep them entertained for days on end. They’ll love the pony rides, puppet shows, and obstacle courses nearly as much as the farm full of cute animals. You’ll also find educational workshops as well as rides – it’s a great mix between good fun and learning. There’s even a beach, Jardin Plage, where both the adults and kids can cool off from the summer heat.

6. Cinéaqua – Aquarium de Paris

You might not expect to find clown fish, puffer fish, sharks, and stingrays in the heart of Paris, but Cinéaqua aims to surprise. The eclectic aquarium is steps away from the Eiffel Tower, where youngsters will love experiencing and learning about marine life. There are daily entertaining and educational workshops and demonstrations here, but the highlight is the self-guided behind-the-scenes tour for kids to get involved in an sea life cinematic experience themselves.

7. Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie

Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, or the Museum of Science and Industry, is a place to broaden the kids’ imaginations with exhibitions on genetics, light, transport, energy, and more. Even those that aren’t science enthusiasts will be captivated by the experience, with a 1950s submarine, the Argonaute, and futuristic chrome sphere that houses an IMAX cinema to boot. The children’s area in particular will draw in the youngsters, providing them with a space to learn through playing and experimenting.