Paris with a Toddler: 5 Amazing Things Even Locals Recommend
Paris, the city of love and the most AMAZING chocolate croissants I’ve ever had – is a destination that everyone has daydreamed about. I’ve been there kid-free and was blessed to live and experience the French life with my husband and two little ones.
Now, let me share some things to do in Paris with a toddler that make for a perfect family-friendly Parisian adventure! From a boat ride to a picnic in the magical gardens, I have something in mind for everyone to enjoy, regardless of whether you’re looking to spend one or 5 days in Paris with family.
Let’s get to it! Here are my 5 things to do in Paris with a toddler.
Related: Flying With a Toddler Internationally: 10 Things to Pack
Paris with a Toddler: 5 Amazing Things Even Locals Recommend
Paris is a beautiful city with a lot to offer for families with toddlers. While dining with little ones can be challenging due to the lack of accommodations and space, the city’s stunning views, exciting activities, and fascinating attractions more than makeup for any minor inconveniences.
Here are five activities you can enjoy in Paris with a toddler.
1. L’Atelier des Lumières or Ateliers des Lumieres
L’Atelier des Lumières (Ateliers des Lumieres) in Paris is a captivating digital art center that combines art with light, animation, and music, creating a unique and immersive experience for all ages.
With mesmerizing multimedia exhibitions, unique workshops, and restaurants, it’s an ideal destination for families with toddlers.
* Check out their Instagram for upcoming exhibitions, current schedule, and more.
2. The Louvre
Did you know that the Louvre Museum in Paris is not only home to world-famous art, including the iconic Mona Lisa, but it’s also a castle-turned-museum with a fascinating history spanning over 800 years?
The Louvre is definitely worth visiting while in Paris with a toddler because it is an amazing opportunity to explore art, history, and architecture. This might sound like an adult attraction, but believe it or not, my toddlers enjoyed it too.
If you’re traveling with kids, I would consider this “Kids and Families Skip-the-Ticket-Line Private Louvre Tour“. Up to six people can be added to the tour, it’s private for your family only, plus it’s a super informational guide that will teach you about the details of all of the famous pieces of art at the Louvre.
Read more reviews here.
Side note: Do expect to spend some time walking around, which can be a bit much for two toddlers. Since there were elevators available, I decided to bring my large Uppababy Vista stroller. It also has great storage so I didn’t have to carry the diaper bag around. My daughter napped in it, while my 3-year-old walked the majority of the time.
One thing I would suggest is to pack a foldable, smaller stroller instead of a large, heavy one.
A good option, (which is also a very popular one in France), is the Babyzen Yoyo.
Read an honest review on this travel stroller so you can make an informed purchase.
When you are planning on doing “grown up” stuff, such as visiting the Louvre, for example, you can always stop at a park before or after. There are lots of beautiful parks and the playgrounds have toddler age-appropriate equipment around.
Additionally, I prefer bringing a stroller when traveling to Paris with a toddler because I can stop by for lunch or go shopping during nap times.
If you’re also traveling with a baby, then a carrier would be a great idea.
I highly recommend getting your tickets ahead of time like we did! You don’t need to do this for ALL of the Paris tours, but for this one, I suggest you do.
Related: Flying With a Toddler Internationally: 10 Things to Pack
3. Explore Jardin des Tuileries
Take a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, also known as the Tuileries Gardens, a stunning public garden located between the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde.
I recommend visiting this place while in Paris with toddlers because they can run around, play in the playgrounds, and enjoy the beautiful fountains and sculptures.
Side note: If you have the opportunity to go during Christmas time, then do it! The windows were filled with such magical displays and lights, and the gardens have a carousel for your little ones to enjoy.
4. Boat Ride on the Seine River
Take a boat ride along the famous Seine River to enjoy breathtaking views of the iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.
There are many boat tours available that cater to families, providing a relaxing way for toddlers to see the city from a unique perspective. You can do a gourmet lunch and sightseeing cruise, a Seine River Champagne Tasting Cruise, or a Paris Seine River Private or Shared Boat Tour. It all depends on what you’re in the mood for, and if you have childcare or not.
Tickets are available at a discounted price for young children. However, if you’re looking to save some money, you can opt for a picnic with your toddlers instead. In my opinion, it’s one of the best things to do in Paris with toddlers ( a must in my opinion).
Watching the boats go by while enjoying fresh baked goods and sipping a cappuccino with family is such an authentic and memorable Parisian experience!
5. Picnic at Luxembourg Gardens
The Jardin du Luxembourg, also known as Luxembourg Gardens, is beautiful and serene, perfectly situated in the heart of the city. It is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic while visiting Paris with a toddler. The gardens offer a variety of activities for toddlers to enjoy such as:
– exploring the large playgrounds
– watching the fish and sailing small boats in the pond
– riding ponies, and more.
While exploring Paris with a toddler, more specifically the Luxembourg Gardens, make sure to poke your head in several small shops on the Rue du Baci.
Here you can buy some fresh fruit such as my favorites, figs, and fraise de bois (strawberries). Next, grab some food items like a baguette, cheese (like brie or reblochon), and finally, dessert. Afterward, you can enjoy a lovely picnic by the fountains in a cool and shady alcove of the park. Perfection.
PRO TIP:
If you decide to visit the Luxembourg Gardens while in Paris with a toddler, I have a VERY specific recommendation for you.
Just across from the Orangerie Museum also known as Musée de l’Orangerie, there is a charming small fenced park that is specifically for kids under 4. This hidden gem has some little splash pads and soft grass perfect for littles to crawl on— it was an absolute hit for our toddlers during our 5 days in Paris with family.
Related: Flying With a Toddler Internationally: 10 Things to Pack
In Conclusion
Paris is a great destination for families, thanks to its amazing gardens, breathtaking views, and numerous toddler-friendly attractions, playgrounds, and carousels.
Our experience in the City of Lights was made even more enjoyable by strategically planning our itinerary.
By identifying the must-visit places, we were able to seamlessly integrate toddler-friendly breaks into our schedule.
Visiting Paris with a toddler requires a unique approach because you have to be considerate of the needs of the little one, however, if traveling is a passion of yours (like it is mine), you’ll discover creative ways to adapt and make the most of your time.
If you plan to spend 5 days in Paris with your family or adjust your itinerary based on your available time, I’m confident that you’ll not only cherish the experience but also feel more prepared after reading this post.
Other Ideas for Activities While in Paris With a Toddler
- Visit Parc de la Villette
- Visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Go to Disneyland Paris
- Spend the day in Versailles
- Discover the Jardin d’Acclimatation
- Visit Parc Zoologique de Paris
Take a Private tour with a local for those visiting Paris with Kids & Toddlers.
Must-Have Travel Gear for Parents Traveling to Paris with a Toddler
1. Compact and lightweight travel stroller: Babyzen YoYo is a very popular option in Europe. We love the Joolz Aer.
2. Baby carrier: this one’s our favorite, we did have a more affordable one by Infantino gifted to us that also worked well.
3. Changing pad or disposable pads (it was very difficult for us to find changing tables).
4. Lightweight car seat and travel bag for flying.
7. Blackout curtains or the Slumberpod (if you’re wondering if it’s worth it, then check out an honest review here).
Related: Flying With a Toddler Internationally: 10 Things to Pack
FAQS
1. What can toddlers do in Paris?
There are quite a lot of things for toddlers to do in Paris. From a boat ride on the Seine River to a picnic in the magical gardens, there is something for everyone, regardless of whether you’re looking to spend one or 5 days in Paris with family.
2. Is Paris stroller friendly?
Paris is generally stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks in central areas and accessible public transportation like the Metro and buses. With that being said, the metro can be a bit challenging because not all stops have elevators or escalators so you might have to lift the baby inside the stroller (or have them in a carrier and collapse the stroller) while going up the stairs.
Having a lightweight stroller is a must while visiting Paris with a toddler. We did so much walking and actually got to see quite a bit because we had our little one in the stroller.
3. Is Paris worth visiting with kids?
Paris is definitely worth visiting with kids! Just prepare your itinerary strategically with the kids in mind and give yourself ample time by not overbooking activities every single day.
4. Where to get a stroller in Paris?
If you’re looking to get a stroller in Paris, consider renting one such as the Baby Zen YoYo stroller (aka the stroller of Paris) from BabyTems. In addition, they have other travel gear such as car seats, portable cribs, potty accessories, and more.
Top Resources for Traveling Like a Pro
As an experienced traveler with over 6 years of booking and planning trips for my family and over 10 years of exploring the world solo, I have curated a list of the most reliable and efficient websites for travel planning.
1. Best deals for Flights, Hotels, and Rental Cars: Expedia.
2. Excursions and Activities: Viator.
3. Free Airport Lounge Access: Priority Pass through Chase Sapphire Reserve gives you access to over 1400 airport lounges around the world.
Amazon Storefront Travel Faves
Don’t forget to visit my Amazon storefront, where you’ll find thoughtfully curated selections of travel essentials.
1. Traveling with a Toddler
2. Travel Essentials
3. Airport Outfit Ideas
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Traveling with Toddlers? You might also enjoy these posts.
1. 3 Epic Summertime Things to Do in Whistler
2. 3 Best Toddler Travel Bed Options to Use After Pack and Play 😴
3. Is WayB Pico Car Seat Worth the Hype?
4. Babyzen YoYo2 Stroller Review and Pros/Cons
5. Is Slumberpod Worth It? Honest Slumberpod Review ✈
Written by: Melanie Suggs (Reviewed on July 30, 2025).
Melanie is a former ICU nurse, a coffee lovin’ mama of two, and a frequent flier who has visited 17+ countries, lived overseas in Asia, Europe, and the States, and has taken her toddlers on over 30 flights all over the world and even more domestic flights.
With her extensive experience in flying and traveling with children, she has developed a passion for helping families travel easily through travel tips, honest gear reviews, and recommendations in her blog posts.
