Enjoy These Free Things To Do In Paris With Kids
Paris doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg—even when you’ve got kids in tow.
Believe it or not, this city has plenty of free adventures that’ll keep kids (and teens) happy while giving your wallet a much-needed rest.
From parks to panoramic views, and even a bit of Disney magic, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly fun. And you certainly won’t be hearing the dreaded “im bored!” every five minutes.
That said, we understand that sometimes it’s not about spending no money at all—it’s about spending as little as possible.
So, even though this guide focuses on free things to do in Paris with kids, we’ve sprinkled in a couple of recommendations that only cost a few euros here and there. Think of it as heightening your experience, rather than being the main focus
Free Things To Do In Paris With Kids
We’ve listed out as many things as we can think of that will fill a couple of days of your trip- starting with…
Landmarks
Eiffel Tower Views
As much fun as it is to go up the Eiffel Tower, it’s definitely not necessary—especially when there are so many great views for free.
Head to Rue de Buenos Aires for an angle that’s just as stunning but without the crowds. Ideal for Instagram pictures too!
If you’ve got a bit of time, take a walk through Champ de Mars. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, take some relaxed photos, and enjoy the Tower from every possible angle.
This way, you get all the magic of the Eiffel Tower without the stress—or the cost.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Kids will love playing a game of “I Spy” with the gargoyles on Notre-Dame’s stunning façade—who can spot the silliest face?
Once you’ve had some fun with that, head down to the Seine to feed the ducks (just make sure you’re feeding ducks safe food here). It’s a small moment, but surprisingly memorable.
Even though tours of the cathedral’s interior are still limited, the area around it is lively. Street performers often draw a crowd, and there’s plenty of room to wander.
It’s an easy, fun way to enjoy one of the best free things to do in Paris with kids.
Sacre-Coeur Basilica
The climb up to Sacré-Cœur can be a fun adventure for older kids—those stairs might feel endless, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth it.
If you’d rather save your energy, the funicular is a great alternative and costs just €2 per ride.
While enjoying the area, be aware of the infamous friendship bracelet scam. People may approach you with a string and attempt to tie it onto your wrist, sometimes quite insistently. ~
It’s best to be firm and say “no” clearly while keeping your hands to yourself—they’ll quickly move on. For more tips on staying safe during your trip, check out my Is Paris Safe? Post.
Panoramic Views from Galeries Lafayette
You might be thinking, “A rooftop terrace—how boring!” But hear me out: the views are incredible, and it’s totally free.
From up here, you can spot iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower while the kids marvel at just how big Paris really is.
It’s open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, making it a perfect spot to take a breather during a busy day of exploring.
In the warmer months, you can even grab a bite to eat at one of the pop-up restaurants on the terrace—relaxing with great food and a killer view? Yes, please.
It’s one of those free things to do in Paris with kids that the whole family can enjoy.
Outdoor Adventures In Paris
Jardin des Tuileries
Jardin des Tuileries is where you can let the kids run wild (without worrying they’ll knock over something priceless). The wide paths are perfect for running around, and there are plenty of statues scattered throughout to keep things interesting.
Add in vendors selling ice cream and sandwiches, and it’s a great place to relax and recharge during a busy day of sightseeing. You definitely don’t need to spend money here to enjoy it—there’s plenty to see and do for free.
That said, if you’re up for a little splurge, there are some fun paid activities too. Rent wooden sailboats for €5 and let the kids sail them around the Grand Basin for 30 minutes, or try the carousel and trampolines for €3 each.
Located between the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre Museum, it’s the perfect pit stop while ticking off some of Paris’s most famous landmarks.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
In the 19th arrondissement, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a bit of a hidden gem and a dream for little adventurers.
There’s a waterfall tucked away to discover, a suspension bridge to cross (it’s a bit wobbly but nothing too dramatic), and plenty of space to run around and explore.
For the more energetic kids, the climb up to the temple at the top of the hill is a fun challenge, and the views from the top make it totally worth it.
It’s one of those places where you’ll all leave feeling like you’ve had a proper little adventure without spending a penny.
La Petite Ceinture Railway
La Petite Ceinture is a bit of a hidden gem for older kids who love a good adventure. The section near Villa du Bel Air, close to Porte de Vincennes, has been spruced up by SNCF and is perfect for families.
With playgrounds, communal gardens, and plenty of paths to explore, it’s a great spot to let the kids burn off some energy while you take a breather.
There’s something really cool about walking along old railway tracks surrounded by greenery—it feels like you’ve stumbled across a little slice of history in the middle of the city.
It’s peaceful, fun, and a refreshing break from the usual tourist spots.
Hidden Gems
Oval Room at the Richelieu Site
The Oval Room at the Richelieu Site might not be the first place you’d think of for kids, but it’s a hidden treat for book-loving older ones.
Tucked inside the National Library, this grand, circular space is like stepping into a storybook with its towering shelves and stunning architecture.
It’s quiet and calm, making it a nice break from the bustle of the city. While younger kids might not appreciate it, older ones with a love for unique spots or a curiosity for books will find it pretty fascinating.
Plus, it’s free to enter, so it’s worth a quick stop if you’re nearby!
Themed Metro Stops
Turn a metro ride into an adventure by hunting down some of Paris’s coolest themed stations.
Kids will love spotting these unique designs, and it’s an easy way to make transit a bit more exciting. It’s completely free if you’re already using the metro, so why not turn the journey into part of the day’s entertainment?
- Arts et Métiers (Line 3, 11): Submarine-inspired with copper walls and portholes.
- Concorde (Line 1, 8, 12): Tiled walls with the Declaration of the Rights of Man.
- Varenne (Line 13): Sculptures by Rodin, including “The Thinker.”
- Louvre – Rivoli (Line 1): Replica artworks from the Louvre Museum.
- Pont Neuf (Line 7): Giant coins reflecting Paris Mint history.
- Liège (Line 13): Blue and white tiles depicting Belgian scenes.
- Cluny – La Sorbonne (Line 10): Mosaics and stained glass celebrating the Latin Quarter.
- Bastille (Line 1, 5, 8): Murals of the French Revolution.
Louvre (under 18s free)
The Louvre might sound like a grown-up activity, but it’s a surprising hit with kids—and even better, it’s free for anyone under 18!
From spotting the Mona Lisa to marvelling at ancient Egyptian artifacts, there’s plenty to capture their attention.
To keep things manageable, focus on one or two areas instead of trying to see everything. Kids will love the adventure of finding their favourite artworks, and you’ll avoid the dreaded museum fatigue.
A quick tip: grab a map at the entrance and plan a route to hit the highlights without feeling overwhelmed!
FAQ
Is Paris a good place to bring kids?
Absolutely, yes! Paris has so much to offer families, from iconic landmarks to fun little surprises. Kids will love burning off energy in the city’s gorgeous parks, playing “spot the gargoyle” at Notre-Dame, or enjoying the magic of street performers.
Throw in quirky stops like themed metro stations and family-friendly (often free!) museums, and you’ve got endless entertainment. And let’s not forget the ultimate kid-pleasers: crepes and croissants on every corner. Paris really does have all the ingredients for a memorable family adventure!
Conclusion
Paris truly caters to everyone—from toddlers with endless energy to teens who think they’ve seen it all (they haven’t), and even adventure-loving parents.
The city is packed with free activities that make it easy to mix culture with fun while keeping your wallet happy.
Whether it’s exploring parks, catching street performances, or soaking up panoramic views, there’s no shortage of free things to do in Paris with kids to create unforgettable family memories.
At time of writing, there are currently no Coronavirus measures limiting tourists to enter France. This is in accordance with the information provided on gov.uk.
