Visit Paris with kids

Paris is often referred to as the city of lovers, but it’s obvious that everyone enjoys Paris. Lovers, singles, party-going friends, girlfriends on a shopping spree, and families! Yes, Paris has plenty to offer for young and old alike, and it would be a shame to miss out. And if you want to book the right hotel to visit Paris with kids, look no further 😉

Visit Paris with kids : practical questions

When you’re travelling with children, you always have lots of questions, and the most important is practicality. Let’s try to answer your questions as best we can.

When is the best time to visit Paris with kids ?

The good news is that Paris is a great place to visit at any time of year. Summer has the advantage of being quieter in the French capital. Parisians leave the city behind, making it more accessible, freer and more serene. Summer is also a great time to stroll through the many green spaces of Paris, with their fountains and lively kiosks. Along the river banks, you can enjoy a sweet walk after a good dinner. And picnicking by the water is so much fun!

In winter, the end-of-year festive season is a very special time, and one that’s great fun with children. The magic of Christmas, the Christmas lights, the animated shop windows, even the older children get a real kick out of it. Take the children to a Christmas market, to the ice rink, and look at the majestic Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette. An unforgettable experience for all the family.

Getting around Paris with children

Paris has the advantage of offering a multitude of transport options. The metro is certainly very practical, with a station just a 5-minute walk away from anywhere in Paris. For your information, in each metro station you’ll find a map of each district with the various exits. Very useful for planning your journey on foot. However, the metro is often overcrowded and not very pleasant to use.

Buses are an excellent way of getting around Paris. An incredible number of lines cross the length and breadth of Paris. We recommend taking the bus rather than the metro, as you can enjoy the view of the city on the way. The large windows of the buses let the light and life of Paris in.

Of course, walking is the best way to discover the French capital in detail. Every alleyway is full of little secrets. Look carefully… Here a stone whose cutter has left a trace of his passage, there a covered passage, here an unsuspected little courtyard, and there a shop as small as a marvellous cupboard.

If you decide to come to Paris by car, you should be aware that parking is not easy to find. Street parking is virtually impossible, and underground car parks (the best option) are still very expensive (around €40 for 24 hours).

The essentials to pack in your suitcase or that of your children.

Whether you’re travelling in the middle of summer or in autumn, there are some essentials you shouldn’t overlook when travelling to Paris with children. Here are a few ideas:

• Rainwear: more practical than an umbrella on the capital’s crowded pavements. Even at the height of summer, you’re never safe from a sudden downpour or an endless shower.
• Walking shoes: in Paris, you can’t imagine how fast the kilometres can go. The city isn’t that big, but it’s easy to get from A to B without using transport. And at the end of the day, you look at the map and realise that you’d better be well shod!
• Sunglasses: young and old alike will need sunglasses, especially near the Seine or on the Butte Montmartre. It would be a shame not to enjoy the view because of the beautiful sunshine.
• A cap or hat: it gets hot very quickly in Paris and it’s easy to get sunburnt on an esplanade (Invalides, Trocadéro, Eiffel Tower, etc.). Sunburn can be a real handicap at the end of your stay.
• A water sprayer: of course, this is only essential during hot weather. With children, a sprayer is essential. Whether it’s in the garden, in a waiting line or on the terrace, you’ll appreciate this little moment of freshness just as much as your children. What’s more, you’ll always find a drinking fountain near you in Paris.

Top things to do in Paris with children

In Paris, there are so many activities and tourist attractions that you have to make a choice. The good thing is that you can decide each day what you want to do, as there’s no shortage of possibilities.

We’ve put together a few small selections for you, with our recommendations and comments, which we hope you’ll find useful.

5 museums for kids and adults

• The Musée des Arts Forains: a place you probably don’t know if you’re not from Paris, but it’s a magical experience. For your information, this magical museum is only open during school holidays and the festive season. 53 avenue des terroirs de France, 75012.
• The Musée de l’air et de l’espace: imagine the history of aviation and space with real models and even the Concorde to visit! It’s a fun visit that’ll get you flying! Paris-Le Bourget airport, 93352 Le Bourget
• Le Musée en Herbe: this is THE museum for children. Each child can visit the museum and follow playful instructions to discover an artist or an exhibition while having fun. 23 rue de l’Arbre Sec, 75001 Paris.
• La Cité des Enfants: this gigantic 1,700 m2 space is dedicated to children aged 2 to 7. On the programme: discoveries, experiments, games, etc. 30 avenue Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris
• The Musée Grévin: would your teen like to have his photo taken with an international singing star or a professional footballer? Your little one is a fan of Pat’Patrouille. Then head for this larger-than-life museum. The bonus? The covered passageway in which the museum is located is a Parisian architectural gem. 10 bd Montmartre, 75009 Paris.

You can also have a look at the Musée du Moyen-Âge, the Cité des Sciences and the Palais de la Découverte.

5 monuments to visit Paris with kids

As well as its museums, Paris is a treasure trove of monuments. Impressive in their size and history, they are witnesses to the past and provide us with the opportunity to tell our children some wonderful stories…

• The Eiffel Tower: a must-see on any trip to Paris. Taking the lift or, for the more adventurous, climbing the steps of the Iron Lady is always a hit with the younger visitors. It dominates Paris with all its uprightness and is a bit like the Everest of the Capital. Champ de Mars, 5 avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
• The Panthéon: you might not have thought of it, but the Panthéon is a great place for children to visit. With models of the building, tombs of illustrious figures and a gigantic clock, there’s plenty for teenagers and pre-teens to enjoy, and plenty to talk about. Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris.
• The Château de Versailles: but isn’t it obvious that the Château de Versailles is an ideal outing with children? A visit to the château can be a quick affair with little ones who are not very keen on discovering art and paintings, but the large garden with its fountains, labyrinth and boat rides will quickly set the mood! The Hameau de la Reine should also delight the little ones… Place d’Armes, 78000 Paris.
• Le Sacré Coeur: on the Montmartre hilltop, the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur draws such pretty white curves in the sky. After a short tour of the site, head outside for one of the best views of Paris. A plus for children? The funicular up to the Sacré-Coeur, they’ll love it! Butte Montmartre, 75018 Paris.
• The Catacombs: here’s a visit your teenagers are sure to love. This underground labyrinth contains millions of bones. The walls are made of bones and skulls.1 avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris.

5 fun activities to visit Paris with kids

Just because you’re away for the weekend or on a city break doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself! Here are a few fun activities that should appeal to you and your little ones too…

• Disneyland Paris: another must for visiting Paris with children! A legendary theme park, just 45 minutes from Paris. Parades, rides, costumed characters and shows fill our eyes with thousands of stars! Disneyland Paris, Boulevard de Parc, 77700 Coupvray.
• Paradox Museum: a new addition to the Paris landscape, and believe us, your children will love it! Imagine a place created for photos. Stages and illusions created for your photos! Paradox Museum, 38 boulevard des italiens, 75009 Paris
• Mini-boats on the Canal Saint-Martin: with Marin d’Eau Douce, you can hire a mini-boat without a licence for a cruise along the Canal Saint-Martin, in a safe area, for children aged 9 and over. The hardest part will be choosing between a police boat, a fireman’s boat or a racer! Bassin de la Villette, 37 Quai de la Seine, 75019 Paris
• The Chocolate Museum: is it possible to remain insensitive to chocolate? The Musée du Chocolat is sure to win over your children! From the origins of chocolate to tasting and family workshops, this visit is sure to delight young and old alike. 28, boulevard de Bonne Nouvelle, 75010 Paris.
• La Maison des histoires: enter the world of l’École des Loisirs with 150 m2 dedicated to stories. There’s a pirate ship, Cornebidouille’s kitchen, a pool of cushions to jump and roll around in, a fire engine, and not forgetting the storytellers. A 1h30 slot to play, read and discover. Only in French. Bookings required. La Maison des Histoires, Chantelivre bookshop, 13 rue de Sèvres, 75006 Paris.

5 parks and gardens to visit Paris with kids

• The Jardin d’Acclimatation: this garden is simply made for children! It’s the only amusement park in Paris itself. Animals, rides, entertainment – the programme is rich and full. And there is a new attraction in 2024 ! With Jurassic Island, put on a virtual reality helmet and travel back to the Jurassic era, among T-Rexes and velociraptors. Carrefour des sablons, 75116 Paris.
• The Jardin des Plantes Menagerie and the Natural History Museum: the Jardin des Plantes is a must-see in Paris. Its immense greenhouses hide many treasures. Exceptional flora with specimens from all over the world to discover in the four greenhouses, which are themselves an architectural gem. Continue your visit with the outdoor garden itself, with its century-old trees and benches perfect for a bucolic break, and visit the menagerie. Stroll along the enclosures where no fewer than 150 species, 40% of which are endangered, live in a green setting. If time permits, treat yourself to a visit to the Museum of Natural History. Its Grande Galerie de l’Évolution is of particular interest to younger visitors, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris.
• Parc zoologique de Paris Vincennes: over 14 hectares, visitors can wander around admiring the park’s 3,000 animals. Armadillos, piranha, anaconda, the park is bursting with specimens. Our favourite? The otters jumping into the water! Parc zoologique – Angle Avenue Daumesnil, route de la ceinture du lac, 75012 Paris.
• The Jardin des Tuileries: this royal-looking garden next to the Louvre Museum is easily accessible, as it is right in the heart of the city. Its large fountain and trampolines will delight young and old alike. What’s more, from June to August, the Tuileries Festival is in full swing, and during the end-of-year holidays, the Christmas market brings part of the garden to life.
• Parc Monceau: It’s great to stroll along the wide paths of the Parc Monceau, over the bridges and between the temples and majestic trees. Children will particularly enjoy the large play area and the merry-go-round with its old-fashioned charm. Open every day until 8pm. 35 Boulevard de Courcelles, 75008 Paris.

Book your hotel to visit Paris with kids

If you’re visiting Paris with your children, it’s essential to choose a hotel right in the center of the city. And why is that? Because walking to get from A to B is still the best way to get around as a family. And if it’s been a long day, you’ll be delighted to be just a few minutes walk from your hotel…

Which district for your family hotel?

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is an excellent choice for your family holiday. Right in the heart of the French capital, you can walk to the Louvre Museum, the Bateaux Mouches and the Jardin du Luxembourg in just a few minutes.

Kids friendly restaurants in Saint-Germain

The many restaurants in Saint-Germain are sure to please young and old alike: typical brasseries, gourmet restaurants, fast-food outlets… Here are a few ideas for family-friendly restaurants:

• Pub Saint-Germain brunch: just a stone’s throw from the Hotel de Seine, in the Odeon district, the legendary Pub Saint-Germain offers a kid-friendly brunch every Sunday. Adults can enjoy a Sunday menu while their younger children are looked after by an entertainer in a games room. Every Sunday, from noon to 4pm. Pub Saint-Germain, 17 rue de l’ancienne comédie, 75006 Paris.
• Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: in this restaurant, the concept is simple: a single dish with a secret sauce. A piece of beef, chips and a salad. Enough to satisfy both young and old gourmets. Reasonably priced. 20 rue Saint-Benoit, 75006 Paris.
• Kodawari Yokocho: be warned, your children will love that experience and you’re likely to be hearing about it for a long time! Right in the heart of Paris, a stone’s throw from the Hotel de Seine, this Japanese restaurant takes you straight to Japan. Step through the door and you’ll find yourself in a Japanese alleyway filled with stalls and restaurant tables. This is where you leave Paris and enter Japan. Japanese culinary specialities are a natural part of the menu. 29 rue Mazarine, 75006 Paris.

And to take things a step further, from Saint-Germain-des-Prés, everything is quickly and easily accessible:

• Chez He: in the mood for Asian food? Go to Chez He. As well as a tasty menu, your children can enjoy 350 m2 of space just for them! Cameras will transmit images to you while you enjoy your meal. 4 Cité de l’ameublement, 75011 Paris.
• French Coco: this restaurant in the 15th arrondissement is a great find. Its dishes will take you on a journey from the West Indies to Asia and South America, while your children can enjoy a play and reading area right next to you. Hopscotch, kitchenette, books… Here, children are welcome and parents benefit doubly. 56 rue Balard, 75015 Paris.
• Chez Jolia in Suresnes: another brunch to share with the kids just outside Paris. And the good thing is, as well as the tasty dishes, the restaurant offers creative workshops during brunch hours, every Sunday, supervised by an activity leader. From 4 years upwards. 7 Rue du Port aux Vins, 92150 Suresnes.

Neighbourhood life is particularly interesting when travelling with younger children. Shops, pharmacies, food shops, bakeries, playgrounds, cinemas – you’ll find it all in Saint-Germain :

• Carrefour Market two minutes’ walk from the Hotel de Seine
• Pharmacy facing the hotel
• Boulangerie two minutes’ walk away on rue de Buci (Boulangerie Thevenin is really delicious)
• La Dernière Goutte wine cellar, 5 minutes’ walk away
• Playground at the very beginning of rue de Seine, 5 minutes’ walk away
• Cinemas at Carrefour de l’Odéon, a 5-minute walk away

It is also worth noting that for any medical needs, the Paris medical emergency service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the week. The hotel reception can call them if necessary and a doctor will come to you, even at night. There may be a long wait, but the doctor who answers the call will assess the urgency of the situation.

At Hotel de Seine, we love kids … and their parents !

In the very heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Hotel de Seine welcomes families with joy and kindness.

Rooms to visit Paris with kids

Its 30 rooms are all equipped with

• free wifi ;
• quality bedding ;
• individual air-conditioning ;
• courtesy tray ;
• marble bathroom with bathrobes and Clarins products;
• blackout curtains;
• smart tv & Chromecast ;
• safe.

Families will appreciate the Deluxe rooms with one double and one single bed, or with three single beds. For families of 4 or 5, two rooms side by side are perfectly feasible, as our human-scale hotel has small floors.

Family friendly services of the Hotel de Seine

If you are travelling with a baby, we can provide you with baby equipment: cot, changing mat, bottle warmer, high chair, etc. Pushchairs can be left on the ground floor and our staff can heat up a pot in the microwave if required.

Breakfast is served every morning in your room or in the dining room from 7am, at half price for children under 12.

Finally, don’t hesitate to ask our 24-hour reception for advice on visiting Paris with children: travel arrangements, show or restaurant bookings, etc. Our team is always delighted to help you during your stay with us 😀

What families say about the Hotel de Seine

The Hotel de Seine welcomes many families. Families with young children, teenagers or young adults, their opinions count and can help you to make a choice. Here are some of their opinions:

“Location 10/10. Fantastic hotel, we’ll be back”.

“The perfect location of the hotel, in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Large room with old-fashioned decoration, large and beautiful bathroom. You feel good here, very friendly staff.”

“Thank you to the whole team, ideal location. Welcome, location, comfort.”

“Location and value for money. Top location, a stone’s throw from the shops. Delicious breakfast and attentive staff: we forgot a cuddly toy in the room and they sent it to us by post. They were very responsive.”

Hotel highlights to visit Paris with kids

Deluxe rooms for 3 people are very popular with families. Here are the highlights most mentioned by our tribe guests:

• size of deluxe room ;
• room decoration ;
• comfortable bedding ;
• location in the heart of Paris ;
• bathtub ideal for small children ;
• attentive staff with good advice ;
• delicious breakfast with the smell of croissants in the morning.

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