Kid Friendly Paris

Outings

Jardin du Luxembourg

@claireinla

A site of recreation for hundreds of years, the Jardin du Luxembourg's iconic green chairs are the perfect respite in the fabulous Latin Quarter. Kids can enjoy pony rides through the park or rent a toy sailboat to push through the central fountain. Pick up un sandwich, grab a chair, and enjoy la belle vie like a true Parisian.

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Versailles

@claireinla

Versailles gardens are stunning, vast, and completely free to enter. For easiest access, take a cab or Uber (use the G7 app to guarantee a car seat!) to Pavillion des Matelots. This side entrance is line-free and puts you on a shaded path directly in front of the iconic chateau and gardens. For a tour, pick up a guided golf cart and cruise the grounds, stopping to take in the fountains and gardens. Or, for more adventurous families (and bigger kids), rent bikes and explore the vast grounds. There are many cafes, ice cream stands, and coffee shops throughout the grounds, so no need to pack a lunch. Be sure not to miss the animals at the Queen's Hamlet in the Trianon Gardens. Shade is limited to wear sunscreen and bring water.

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Museums

Musée de l'Orangerie

@claireinla

This bite-sized museum can be enjoyed in under an hour, and has one of the most incredible displays of impressionist art in the world. Tickets are affordable and available in advance, although lines are typically not long for entry. There is a kids play area at the lower level,

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Musée Rodin

@claireinla

This museum is manageably sized, features vast gardens (and a delightful cafe!) and is the perfect way to experience the art scene of Paris without the lines of The Louvre. Families and strollers skip the line by entering through the gift shop, and there is a kids exploration area for the tiny artists in the group. Bring a picnic, get an ice cream, and enjoy an outdoor afternoon amongst some of France's greatest sculpture.

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Dining

Le Capucine

@claireinla

Centrally located across from the Palais Garnier Opera and Galleries Lafayette, this charming cafe is open all day, has high chairs (request une chaise haute) and well sized bathrooms. Staff are friendly and speak English.

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Le Café de Mars

@claireinla

While not traditionally French, this neighborhood cafe serves excellent food with even better service right under the Eiffel Tower. The menu rotates, but be sure not to miss their fabulous desserts. While it is a small space, the staff go above and beyond to make customers (and little ones) comfortable.

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Le Comptoir des Petits Champs

@claireinla

Charming, traditional French restaurant with fabulous service just blocks from the Louvre. The small menu is only the hits, and features innovative takes on French classics. The service is warm, English-speaking, and the clientele is a mix of travelers and locals. Available for reservation on TheFork

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Useful Locations

Monoprix

@claireinla

Think of Monoprix like Paris' Target-- this is where Parisians come to buy home decor, groceries, and typical pharmacy items. Make a stop here for snacks, water, and other essentials. Most carry diapers, wipes and a small selection of toys. You're never far from a Monoprix, even in the densest parts of Paris.

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Citypharma

@claireinla

Pharmacies in Paris serve a different function than they do state-side. Unlike a CVS or Walgreens, you will not find essentials here (like toothpaste or diapers). However, pharmacists are able to prescribe some medications over the counter. Many speak English and can be very helpful for routine illnesses and maladies. Look for the green cross throughout the city.

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General Advice

Getting Around

The Metro system, while expansive, is not very family friendly. Many stops are deep underground, with unreliable elevator service. Consider the RER, the commuter rail that has accessible stops throughout the city, for a more comfortable ride. Buses are also very useful, and give a different perspective of the city. For cabs, Uber is reliable, affordable, and works well. If you require a car seat, use the G7 app to book local vehicles that have infant or booster seats 

Essentials

Strollers can be tricky (but not impossible) on the Parisian streets. Many museums have stroller entrances, and small restaurants will store strollers during meals. High chairs and changing tables are rare in Parisian restaurants and venues. Restaurants may offer booth seating for families with small children, although a high-chair adapter or clip on chair is recommended. Children are welcome in most spaces in Paris, including restaurants and museums. For child-friendly dining, make reservations or stop in before 7PM.