Paris is often seen as a city of romance and luxury, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families looking to explore without spending a fortune. From stunning parks to historic landmarks, there are plenty of exciting activities that kids will love – and best of all, they’re free! Here’s a guide to the best things to do with kids in Paris without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Fun and Adventures
- Paris Plages: As summer heats up, Paris transforms the banks of the Seine into a beach paradise known as Paris Plages. This annual event turns the riverbanks into sandy havens filled with a range of activities for children, including playgrounds and water games. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a beach day without leaving the city, offering a refreshing and playful retreat in the heart of Paris.
- La Garde Républicaine’s Grand Reliever Ceremony: One unique and free event to experience with your kids in Paris is La Garde Républicaine’s Grand Reliever Ceremony. Held on the first Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. in front of the Élysée Palace, this historic ceremony offers a captivating glimpse into French traditions. Kids will be fascinated by the soldiers’ impressive uniforms, complete with shakos and swords, as they watch the formal changing of the guard. It’s a wonderful way to introduce young ones to a piece of French heritage, and best of all, it’s completely free to attend.
Discovering Free Kid-Friendly Activities in Paris
Explore Parisian Parks, Playgrounds, and Gardens
Paris is dotted with beautiful parks and playgrounds where little ones can burn off energy between museum visits and sightseeing.
- Jardin Nelson-Mandela Adventure Playground: Ideal for kids aged 2-11 with a variety of play equipment, including swings, trampolines, and climbing structures. Free and centrally located.
- Rives de Seine: Open 24/7, this spot features games, mini climbing walls, and sports fields. It’s lively all year-round, especially during summer.
- Parc Floral Playground: Open seasonally with a free playground that includes a giant slide, climbing structures, and water sprayers. Great for families with young kids and it also hosts events like the Paris Jazz Festival.
- Parc André-Citroën: Home to the “La Haut” playground with an accrobranche course, ping-pong, and water games. A large tropical greenhouse and a hot air balloon ride are also available.
- Parc Clichy-Batignolles: Eco-friendly park with play areas for all ages, including a skate park and basketball courts.
- Jardin du Dragon at Parc de la Villette: Features a colourful dragon-themed playground with a giant slide and climbing nets, perfect for kids aged 3-13.
- Parc de Belleville: Known for its adventurous slope, this playground offers a unique experience with safe climbing and sliding options for kids aged 6-15.
- Jardin des Tuileries: The Jardin des Tuileries, located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, is not just a picturesque green space; it also features a trampoline playground perfect for younger children. It’s a delightful spot for a break, where kids can play while parents soak in the serene surroundings.
- Jardin des Plantes: The garden boasts fantastic attractions like the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution, the Menagerie, and the Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy, plus beautiful greenhouses and a special Children’s Gallery. Don’t miss a relaxing stroll through the lovely French gardens. When you’re ready for a bite, the “Les Belles Plantes” restaurant has a delightful terrace that’s perfect for enjoying a meal on a sunny day.
Animal Encounters in Paris
La Ferme de Paris: For a delightful and educational experience with kids, head to La Ferme de Paris in the Bois de Vincennes. This 5-hectare farm offers free admission and is a fantastic way for children to connect with nature. Managed with organic practices, the farm features a variety of crops, orchards, and animal shelters. Children can visit and learn about farm animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits, and even participate in farm activities. The farm’s focus on sustainability and animal welfare makes it a unique and enriching outing for families looking to escape the city and enjoy a hands-on, educational adventure.
Enjoy Free Cultural Experiences with Kids in Paris
Paris is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of opportunities for children to engage with it – all for free!
Discover Iconic Paris Landmarks for Free
Some of Paris’s most famous landmarks offer free entry, making it easy for families to experience the city’s rich history and culture without spending a penny.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: A trip to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre is a must for any Paris itinerary. The entrance is free, and the basilica’s stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. After your visit, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Montmartre, where you can spot the locations from films like Amélie.
- Notre-Dame de Paris: While the Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of Paris’s most famous landmarks, did you know you can join a free English-language tour on specific days? These tours offer a fantastic way to introduce older children and teens to the history of this Gothic masterpiece.
- Eiffel Tower Picnic: For a perfect family picnic, head to the Champ de Mars park near the Eiffel Tower. This spacious green area offers stunning views of the iconic landmark and plenty of room for the little ones to run and play. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely meal on the lush lawns while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Paris. The park is an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon, with its wide open spaces, nearby playgrounds, and charming surroundings providing a picturesque backdrop for your family outing.
- Free Seine River Cruise: Hop on a free Seine River cruise from Corentin Cariou Métro station to the Le Millénaire shopping centre. This boat ride offers a unique perspective of the city and a relaxing break from the bustling streets. It’s an ideal way to enjoy the river with your little ones – and you don’t even have to buy anything at the shopping centre!
Explore Parisian Museums and Historical Homes
Paris is known for its world-class museums, but you don’t always have to pay to enjoy them. On the first Sunday of each month, many museums in Paris waive their admission fees. This offers families a great opportunity to visit major attractions like the Louvre without the usual costs.
Music and Art in Paris
- Musée Gourmand du Chocolat: If your little ones have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the Musée Gourmand du Chocolat. Children under 6 can enter for free, making it an ideal stop for young food enthusiasts. The museum offers a delicious journey through the history and production of chocolate, complete with tastings that will leave everyone smiling.
- The Grande Galerie de l’Évolution: For a more unique museum experience, head to the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution at the Muséum national d’histoire naturelle. This museum, which is free for visitors under 26, houses a fascinating collection of stuffed animals that will captivate both kids and adults. It’s a perfect spot to ignite your children’s curiosity about the natural world.
- Grévin Paris: For a touch of glamour, visit Grévin Paris, where children under 6 enjoy free admission. This wax museum features lifelike figures of famous personalities from around the world, giving kids a chance to “meet” their favourite stars and take fun photos alongside them.
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is a must-visit for budding scientists. Children under 2 get in for free, and everyone can enjoy the interactive exhibits that make learning about science fun and engaging. The museum also includes a free aquarium, where you can marvel at a variety of aquatic life without spending a euro.
- Cité de la Musique: The Cité de la Musique is a haven for music lovers, and it’s free for anyone under 26. With a collection of around 1,000 musical instruments, it’s a fantastic place for children to explore and learn about music from different cultures and eras. There are also affordable workshops where kids can try their hand at playing instruments.
- Victor Hugo Museum: For older children and teens with an interest in literature or history, a visit to the Victor Hugo Museum is a must. Located in the author’s former home in the Place des Vosges, the museum offers free entry to its permanent collection. It’s a great way to introduce your children to the world of Les Misérables and other classic works.
Experience Paris for Free with Your Family
Paris doesn’t have to be an expensive destination, especially when travelling with kids. From exploring beautiful parks and historic landmarks to diving into the city’s rich cultural offerings, there are plenty of free activities that will make your family’s trip to Paris both memorable and budget-friendly. With so many things to do with kids in Paris, you can create wonderful family memories without stretching your budget. Enjoy this amazing city while taking advantage of all the free, fun experiences Paris has to offer!
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