Landmarks
The centre of Paris is like one sprawling open air museum, and even younger visitors will be excited by the unique atmosphere and much-photographed buildings all around. Eiffel Tower
If it's the family’s first visit to Paris, a trip to the Eiffel Tower is essential. If you need to walk off your breakfast croissants, then it's possible to climb the 704 steps to the 2nd floor before taking a lift to the top, otherwise you can save your breath and get to the top by using the lifts all the way. Where better to take in Paris from the pinnacle of the city’s enduring symbol?
Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole, 75007 Paris. Arc de Triomphe
This spectacular monument to those who died for their country stands in the heart of Paris, surrounded by busy roads, and is second only to the Eiffel Tower as an icon of the city. At the bottom, you and your family can admire the intricate carvings of the structure, before heading up to the terrace for panoramic views of the sprawl all around you.
Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris.
Museums
While kids may not be all that fascinated by modernist paintings and the Mona Lisa, there are museums in Paris to tickle the fancy of young imaginations, from wildlife exhibits to antique dolls. Grande Galerie de l'Évolution
Skeletons of whales and life-sized models of mammoths are among the gob-smacking attractions in the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution. Taking visitors through the process of evolution, from the earliest marine life to today's exotic mammals, it presents a veritable parade of animals caught in time, and will beguile kids and adults alike.
36 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire, 75005 Paris.
Musée de la Poupée
An eccentric museum dedicated to dolls, this features a collection dating back to the 1800s. Kids can find out how dolls are made, as well as seeing examples of antique toys from porcelain to plastic. Some may find all the dolls a little eerie, but young and fertile imaginations will be entranced.
Quartier Beaubourg, Impasse Berthaud, 75003 Paris.
Outdoors
Paris has some beautiful outdoor spaces, with city parks and hidden gardens dotted with fountains and idyllic flowery formations. Luxembourg Gardens
In the heart of the city, and just a short stroll from the Seine, the Luxembourg Gardens have kept Parisian children entertained for generations. Inside this well-manicured park, you'll find attractions such as puppet shows, lakes with sail boats, a vintage carousel, and a lively playground to keep children captivated.
6e Arrondissement, 75006 Paris.
Family dining
From family lunches in cosy cafés, to leisurely dinners in rustic restaurants, it's easy to keep the children well fed during your stay in the French capital. La Prairie du Petit Resto
With chunky wooden tables and a hearty menu, La Prairie du Petit Resto is the perfect French bistro, with a friendly atmosphere that brings in the families. With stodgy French classics alongside kid-pleasing fare like burgers and fries, there's something for everyone to sink their teeth into.
6 Rue Lamartine, 75009 Paris. Crêperie Bretonne Fleurie
There's no better treat for children in France than a freshly made crêpe, and at Crêperie Bretonne Fleurie they are served hot off the grill. This quirky little café is full of nautical themed decorations, and from your creaky wooden booth you can order crêpes smothered in Belgium chocolate with chopped banana, pecans, ice cream, or whatever filling takes your fancy.
67 rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris.
