People assume Paris is for couples. Then they take their kids, and the kids are the ones who do not want to leave. It is a city of carousels, crepes, boats and one very famous tower, and it is far easier with a family than its reputation suggests.
Start with the view
For that first look at the Eiffel Tower, go to the Trocadéro. You stand across the river with the tower straight ahead, fountains below and gardens full of flowers in front of you. It is the photo everyone wants, and it costs nothing.
Come back after dark if you can. The tower sparkles for five minutes at the top of every hour once the sun goes down, and children remember it for years.
What the kids will love
- The carousels. There is one near the foot of the Eiffel Tower and others scattered around the city. A few minutes on a carousel buys a lot of goodwill.
- A boat on the Seine. A river cruise takes about an hour and shows off the big sights without anyone having to walk.
- Luxembourg Gardens. Kids push little wooden sailboats across the pond, and there is a big playground when they need to run.
- Crepes from a street stand. Sweet or savory, eaten while walking. It solves lunch more often than you would expect.
- A picnic by the tower. Grab a baguette, cheese and fruit, and spread out on the lawn of the Champ de Mars.
How to make it an easy trip
- Book the Eiffel Tower ahead. Timed tickets go on sale weeks in advance and sell out in busy seasons. Decide early whether you want the top or just the second floor.
- Keep museums short. Pick a few things to see at the Louvre and leave while everyone is still happy. Many national museums are free for visitors under 18.
- Stay central. A hotel or apartment within walking distance of the river saves tired legs and long rides at the end of the day.
- Plan one big thing a day. Paris rewards wandering. Leave room for the bakery, the park and the playground you did not know was there.
- Add a Disney day. Disneyland Paris is about 40 minutes from the city by train, which makes it an easy add-on for families.
Why it works for families
Paris gives the grown-ups the beauty and the food, and gives the kids boats, parks and pastries. Everyone comes home with a favorite.
Dreaming about Paris, or a bigger Europe trip that includes it? I can plan the hotel, the tickets and the pacing so it works for your family. Request a quote and I will put it together.