Paris: A Family Adventure in the City of Lights

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, and for good reason. The French capital is full of history, culture, art, and romance, and offers something for everyone. Whether you want to admire the iconic monuments, explore the charming neighborhoods, enjoy the delicious cuisine, or experience the vibrant nightlife, Paris has it all.

But Paris is not only a city for couples and solo travelers. It’s also a great place to visit with your family, as there are plenty of attractions and activities that will keep your kids entertained and amazed. In this blog post, we’ll share with you our top 10 attractions, top 5 local authentic foods, local favorite restaurants, and best neighborhoods to stay in Paris for a family adventure. We’ll also give you some tips on the best time of day and best times of year to visit, and how to get around the city easily and affordably.

Top 10 Attractions in Paris

Paris is home to some of the most famous landmarks and museums in the world, and you can’t miss them when you visit the city. Here are our top 10 attractions that you and your kids will love:

1. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. It was built for the 1889 World’s Fair and stands at 324 meters tall. You can take an elevator or climb the stairs to the first, second, or third floor, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Seine river. You can also visit the glass floor on the first floor, where you can see the ground below your feet. At night, the tower sparkles with thousands of lights, creating a magical spectacle.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Eiffel Tower is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller and the lines are shorter. The best times of year to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the gardens are blooming or changing colors. You can buy your tickets online in advance to save time and money. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the tower.

Transportation: The Eiffel Tower is located in the 7th arrondissement, on the Champ de Mars. You can get there by metro (line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or line 9 to Trocadéro), by RER (line C to Champ de Mars - Tour Eiffel), by bus (lines 42, 69, 82, or 87), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

2. Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is the largest and most visited museum in the world, and houses some of the most famous artworks and artifacts in history. You can admire masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Code of Hammurabi, among many others. You can also explore the different sections of the museum, such as the Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, and Medieval collections. The museum is housed in a former royal palace, and the glass pyramid at the entrance is a modern addition by architect I.M. Pei.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Louvre Museum is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better. The best times of year to visit are winter and summer, when the museum is open every day except Tuesday. You can buy your tickets online in advance to skip the line at the entrance. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the artworks and the history of the museum.

Transportation: The Louvre Museum is located in the 1st arrondissement, on the right bank of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 1 or 7 to Palais-Royal - Musée du Louvre), by RER (line A to Châtelet - Les Halles), by bus (lines 21, 24, 27, 39, 48, 68, 69, 72, 81, or 95), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

3. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most beautiful and impressive Gothic cathedrals in the world, and a masterpiece of architecture and art. It was built between the 12th and 14th centuries, and features stunning stained glass windows, sculptures, gargoyles, and towers. You can visit the interior of the cathedral, where you can see the rose windows, the organ, the altar, and the relics. You can also climb the towers, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the river, and see the famous bell and the hunchback. Unfortunately, the cathedral suffered a devastating fire in 2019, and is currently undergoing restoration. However, you can still admire it from the outside and learn about its history and significance. It's set to re-open late 2024.

Tip: The best time of day to visit Notre Dame Cathedral is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better. The best times of year to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the flowers are blooming or changing colors. You can visit the cathedral for free, but you need to buy a ticket to climb the towers. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the cathedral and its history.

Transportation: Notre Dame Cathedral is located in the 4th arrondissement, on the Île de la Cité, an island in the middle of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 4 to Cité or line 1, 7, 11, or 14 to Châtelet), by RER (line B or C to Saint-Michel - Notre Dame), by bus (lines 21, 24, 27, 38, 47, 58, 70, 72, 74, 81, 82, 85, or 96), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

4. Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is the ultimate destination for families who love Disney and want to experience the magic of the theme parks. Disneyland Paris consists of two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Disneyland Park is divided into five lands: Main Street U.S.A., Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Discoveryland. You can enjoy rides, shows, parades, and meet your favorite characters. Walt Disney Studios Park is dedicated to the world of cinema and animation, and features four zones: Front Lot, Toon Studio, Production Courtyard, and Backlot. You can enjoy attractions, shows, and special events. You can also visit Disney Village, a shopping and entertainment area, and stay at one of the Disney hotels.

Tip: The best time of day to visit Disneyland Paris is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller and the lines are shorter. The best times of year to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the parks are decorated for the seasons. You can buy your tickets online in advance to save time and money. You can also take advantage of the FastPass service, which allows you to skip the line for some attractions. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the parks and their history.

Transportation: Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, about 40 km east of Paris. You can get there by RER (line A to Marne-la-Vallée - Chessy), by bus (Magical Shuttle from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airports, or Ouibus from Paris city center), by car (A4 motorway, exit 14), or by train (TGV or Eurostar to Marne-la-Vallée - Chessy station).

5. Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is one of the most famous and visited museums in Paris, and houses the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world. You can admire works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gauguin, among many others. You can also see sculptures, furniture, photography, and architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum is housed in a former railway station, and the glass roof and the clock are impressive features of the building.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Musée d’Orsay is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better. The best times of year to visit are winter and summer, when the museum is open every day except Monday. You can buy your tickets online in advance to skip the line at the entrance. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the artworks and the history of the museum.

Transportation: The Musée d’Orsay is located in the 7th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 12 to Solférino), by RER (line C to Musée d’Orsay), by bus (lines 24, 63, 68, 69, 73, 83, 84, or 94), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

6. Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

The Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées are two of the most iconic and famous landmarks in Paris, and represent the glory and elegance of the city. The Arc de Triomphe is a monumental arch that stands at the center of the Place de l’Étoile, a large roundabout where 12 avenues converge. It was built to honor the victories and the soldiers of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, and features sculptures, reliefs, and inscriptions. You can climb to the top of the arch, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and the Eiffel Tower. You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, which commemorate the fallen of the World Wars. The Champs-Élysées is the most famous and prestigious avenue in Paris, and stretches for 2 km from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It is lined with luxury shops, cafes, restaurants, cinemas, and theaters, and is the scene of many parades and events, such as the Bastille Day military parade and the Tour de France final stage.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller and the lights are brighter. The best times of year to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the trees are blooming or changing colors. You can buy your tickets online in advance to skip the line at the entrance of the arch. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the arch and its history.

Transportation: The Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées are located in the 8th arrondissement, on the right bank of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 1, 2, or 6 to Charles de Gaulle - Étoile), by RER (line A to Charles de Gaulle - Étoile), by bus (lines 22, 30, 31, 52, 73, or 92), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

7. Versailles Palace

The Versailles Palace is one of the most magnificent and opulent palaces in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the residence of the French kings and queens from Louis XIV to Louis XVI, and the seat of the royal court and the government. It is a masterpiece of architecture and art, and features hundreds of rooms, halls, salons, and apartments, decorated with paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and furniture. You can visit the most famous rooms, such as the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Chamber, the Queen’s Chamber, and the Royal Chapel. You can also explore the vast and beautiful gardens, which include fountains, statues, groves, and ponds. You can also see the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon, and the Hameau de la Reine, which are smaller palaces and cottages where the royals escaped from the formalities of the court.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Versailles Palace is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better. The best times of year to visit are spring and summer, when the weather is warm and the gardens are in full bloom. You can also see the Musical Fountains Show and the Musical Gardens, which are special events where the fountains and the music are synchronized. You can buy your tickets online in advance to skip the line at the entrance. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the palace and its history.

Transportation: The Versailles Palace is located in Versailles, about 20 km southwest of Paris. You can get there by RER (line C to Versailles - Château - Rive Gauche), by train (SNCF from Paris Montparnasse to Versailles - Chantiers or from Paris Saint-Lazare to Versailles - Rive Droite), by bus (line 171 from Pont de Sèvres), or by car (A13 motorway, exit 5 or 6).

8. Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica

Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica are two of the most charming and picturesque attractions in Paris, and offer a glimpse of the bohemian and artistic side of the city. Montmartre is a hill and a neighborhood in the 18th arrondissement, where many famous artists, writers, and musicians lived and worked, such as Picasso, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Edith Piaf. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the studios and museums, shop at the local markets and boutiques, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. You can also see the Place du Tertre, where you can watch painters and caricaturists at work, and the Moulin Rouge, the legendary cabaret and the birthplace of the can-can dance. Sacré-Coeur Basilica is a stunning white church that stands at the top of the hill, and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Paris. It was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and features a Romanesque-Byzantine style, a dome, a bell tower, and a mosaic. You can visit the interior of the basilica, where you can see the stained glass windows, the organ, the crypt, and the relics. You can also climb to the dome, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Tip: The best time of day to visit Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller and the views are more romantic. The best times of year to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the colors are more vivid. You can visit the basilica for free, but you need to buy a ticket to climb the dome. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the basilica and its history.

Transportation: Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica are located in the 18th arrondissement, on the right bank of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 2 to Anvers or line 12 to Abbesses), by bus (lines 30, 31, 80, 85, or Montmartrobus), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby). You can also take the funicular, which is a cable car that takes you from the bottom to the top of the hill.

9. Pompidou Center

The Pompidou Center is one of the most innovative and modern attractions in Paris, and a cultural hub for contemporary art and entertainment. It was built in the late 1970s, and features a futuristic design, with colorful pipes, tubes, and structures on the outside. It houses the National Museum of Modern Art, which is the largest museum of its kind in Europe, and showcases works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Duchamp, Kandinsky, and Warhol, among many others. You can also see temporary exhibitions, performances, workshops, and events. You can also visit the public library, the cinema, the bookstore, and the restaurant. You can also enjoy the view of the city from the rooftop terrace.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Pompidou Center is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better. The best times of year to visit are winter and summer, when the museum is open every day except Tuesday. You can buy your tickets online in advance to skip the line at the entrance. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the museum and its artworks.

Transportation: The Pompidou Center is located in the 4th arrondissement, on the right bank of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 11 to Rambuteau or line 1, 4, 7, 11, or 14 to Châtelet), by RER (line A, B, or D to Châtelet - Les Halles), by bus (lines 21, 29, 38, 47, 58, 69, 70, 72, 74, 75, 76, 81, 85, or 96), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

10. Jardin du Luxembourg

The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the most beautiful and popular parks in Paris, and a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. It was created in the 17th century, and covers 23 hectares of land. It features a large pond, a fountain, a palace, a museum, a theater, a playground, and a variety of flowers, trees, and statues. You can relax, picnic, read, or play in the park, and enjoy the fresh air and the greenery. You can also rent a sailboat, watch a puppet show, play chess, or visit the apiary. You can also see the Medici Fountain, the Statue of Liberty, and the Pantheon, which are nearby.

Tip: The best time of day to visit the Jardin du Luxembourg is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the park is more peaceful and the colors are more beautiful. The best times of year to visit are spring and summer, when the park is open every day and the flowers are in full bloom. You can visit the park for free, but you need to buy a ticket to visit the museum or the theater. You can also take a guided tour or an audio guide to learn more about the park and its history.

Transportation: The Jardin du Luxembourg is located in the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine. You can get there by metro (line 4 to Saint-Sulpice or line 10 to Mabillon), by RER (line B to Luxembourg), by bus (lines 21, 27, 38, 58, 82, 83, 84, 85, or 89), or by bike (there are several bike stations nearby).

Top 5 Local Authentic Foods to Try in Paris

Paris is not only a city of art and culture, but also a city of gastronomy and cuisine. The French capital offers a wide range of dishes and specialties that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your appetite. Here are our top 5 local authentic foods that you and your kids must try in Paris:

1. Croissant

A croissant is a buttery and flaky pastry that is shaped like a crescent and is one of the most iconic and delicious breakfast items in Paris. You can enjoy it plain, with jam, chocolate, or cheese, or as a sandwich with ham, cheese, and egg. You can find croissants in any bakery or café in Paris, but some of the best ones are at Du Pain et des Idées, Blé Sucré, and La Maison d’Isabelle.

2. Crêpe

A crêpe is a thin and light pancake that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients and folded into a triangle or a cone. You can find crêpes in many restaurants and street stalls in Paris, but the best ones are at Breizh Café, Crêperie Josselin, and La Crêperie de Josselin. You can choose from a variety of fillings, such as Nutella, banana, strawberry, cheese, ham, egg, mushroom, and more.

3. Baguette

A baguette is a long and thin loaf of bread that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. It is one of the most essential and versatile foods in Paris, and can be eaten with butter, cheese, jam, or as a sandwich. You can find baguettes in any bakery or supermarket in Paris, but some of the best ones are at Le Grenier à Pain, Maison Landemaine, and Boulangerie Mauvieux.

4. Macaron

A macaron is a small and colorful cookie that is made of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites, and is filled with cream, ganache, or jam. It is one of the most popular and elegant desserts in Paris, and comes in a variety of flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, raspberry, lemon, pistachio, and more. You can find macarons in many pastry shops and chocolatiers in Paris, but some of the best ones are at Ladurée, Pierre Hermé, and Dalloyau.

5. Cheese

Cheese is one of the most beloved and diverse foods in Paris, and France in general. There are hundreds of types and varieties of cheese, each with its own texture, flavor, and aroma. You can enjoy cheese as a snack, as a dessert, or as a main course, with bread, wine, fruit, or honey. You can find cheese in any market, grocery store, or cheese shop in Paris, but some of the best ones are at Fromagerie Quatrehomme, Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, and Fromagerie Barthélemy.

Local Favorite Restaurants in Paris

Paris is a paradise for food lovers, and offers a wide range of restaurants that cater to every taste, budget, and occasion. Whether you want to try the traditional French cuisine, the regional specialties, or the international flavors, you will find something to suit your palate and your mood. Here are some of our local favorite restaurants that you and your kids will enjoy in Paris:

1. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a classic and famous restaurant that serves only one dish: steak frites. You can choose how you want your steak cooked, and you will get a generous portion of tender and juicy meat, accompanied by crispy fries and a secret sauce. You can also get a green salad, bread, and dessert. The restaurant has a cozy and friendly atmosphere, and the service is fast and efficient. There are several locations in Paris, but the original one is in the 6th arrondissement.

2. L’As du Fallafel

L’As du Fallafel is a popular and cheap restaurant that serves the best falafel in Paris. Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish that consists of deep-fried balls of chickpeas and herbs, stuffed in a pita bread with salad, hummus, tahini, and hot sauce. You can also get other dishes, such as shawarma, kebab, or schnitzel. The restaurant has a small and simple interior, but you can also order from the window and eat on the street. The restaurant is located in the 4th arrondissement, in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

3. Le Jules Verne

Le Jules Verne is a luxurious and romantic restaurant that is located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. You can enjoy a fine dining experience with a stunning view of the city and the river. The restaurant offers a seasonal and creative menu, featuring dishes such as foie gras, lobster, lamb, and chocolate. You can also choose from a selection of wines and champagnes. The restaurant has a chic and elegant decor, and the service is impeccable. The restaurant is located in the 7th arrondissement, and you need to make a reservation in advance.

4. Les Deux Magots

Les Deux Magots is a historic and famous café and restaurant that was a favorite hangout of many artists, writers, and intellectuals, such as Hemingway, Sartre, and Picasso. You can enjoy a typical Parisian breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with dishes such as croque-monsieur, onion soup, steak tartare, and crème brûlée. You can also have a coffee, a tea, or a cocktail, and watch the people and the traffic on the boulevard. The café has a cozy and charming atmosphere, and the service is friendly and attentive. The café is located in the 6th arrondissement, near the Saint-Germain-des-Prés church.

5. Le Comptoir du Relais

Le Comptoir du Relais is a trendy and cozy restaurant that serves a delicious and authentic French cuisine. You can enjoy dishes such as duck confit, beef bourguignon, ratatouille, and cheese platter. You can also have a glass of wine, a beer, or a cider, and chat with the locals and the tourists. The restaurant has a small and warm interior, and a large and lively terrace. The restaurant is located in the 6th arrondissement, near the Odeon metro station.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris

Paris is divided into 20 districts, called arrondissements, which are numbered from 1 to 20 in a clockwise spiral from the center of the city. Each arrondissement has its own character, charm, and attractions, and offers a different experience of the city. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris for families:

1. 1st Arrondissement

The 1st arrondissement is the oldest and most central district of Paris, and one of the most touristy and expensive ones. It is home to some of the most famous landmarks and museums, such as the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, the Palais Royal, and the Place Vendôme. It is also a great place for shopping, dining, and entertainment, as it has many luxury boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and theaters. You can find many hotels in this area, ranging from budget to luxury, but you need to book in advance and be prepared to pay a high price.

2. 4th Arrondissement

The 4th arrondissement is one of the most historic and charming districts of Paris, and one of the most lively and diverse ones. It is home to some of the most beautiful and impressive landmarks, such as Notre Dame, the Pompidou Center, the Hotel de Ville, and the Place des Vosges. It is also home to the Marais, a trendy and colorful neighborhood that is known for its art galleries, fashion shops, gay bars, and Jewish quarter. You can find many hotels in this area, ranging from budget to luxury, but you need to book in advance and be prepared to pay a high price.

3. 5th Arrondissement

The 5th arrondissement is one of the oldest and most intellectual districts of Paris, and one of the most pleasant and family-friendly ones. It is home to some of the most prestigious and renowned institutions, such as the Sorbonne, the Pantheon, the College de France, and the National Museum of Natural History. It is also home to the Latin Quarter, a lively and bohemian neighborhood that is known for its bookstores, cafes, cinemas and theaters. You can find many hotels in this area, ranging from budget to luxury, but you need to book in advance and be prepared to pay a moderate price.

4. 7th Arrondissement

The 7th arrondissement is one of the most elegant and prestigious districts of Paris, and one of the most scenic and romantic ones. It is home to some of the most iconic and famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Invalides, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Rodin Museum. It is also a great place for shopping, dining, and relaxing, as it has many chic boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and parks. You can find many hotels in this area, ranging from budget to luxury, but you need to book in advance and be prepared to pay a high price.

5. 18th Arrondissement

The 18th arrondissement is one of the most artistic and bohemian districts of Paris, and one of the most diverse and vibrant ones. It is home to some of the most charming and picturesque landmarks, such as Montmartre, the Sacré-Coeur, the Moulin Rouge, and the Place du Tertre. It is also home to many ethnic and cultural communities, such as the African, Asian, and Arab ones. You can find many hotels in this area, ranging from budget to luxury, but you need to book in advance and be prepared to pay a moderate price.

Conclusion: Why You Should Visit Paris with Your Family

Paris is a city that has something for everyone, and especially for families. You can enjoy the culture, the history, the art, and the romance of the city, and discover its many attractions and activities. You can also enjoy the cuisine, the shopping, and the entertainment of the city, and taste its many flavors and specialties. You can also explore the different neighborhoods and districts of the city, and experience its diversity and charm. Paris is a city that will enchant you and your kids, and make you fall in love with it. Paris is a city that you should visit with your family, and create unforgettable memories.

We hope you enjoyed this blog post, and that it inspired you to plan your next family adventure in Paris. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please feel free to email us. We would love to hear from you. Thank you for reading, and bon voyage!

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