TOP 20 THINGS TO DO IN PARIS WITH KIDS

The City of Light is not only a romantic destination but also a treasure trove of activities and attractions perfect for families with children. Whether your kids are fans of art, science, nature, or thrilling adventures, Paris has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the top kid-friendly attractions and activities that will ensure an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Our shortlist of the top 20 things to do in Paris with Kids includes popular tourist destinations such as Disneyland Paris, the Jardin des Plantes and Natural History Museum, the Paris Zoo, and the Jardin d’Acclimatation (an amusement park in the Bois de Boulogne). Additionally, there are recommendations for more off-the-beaten-path activities such as taking a bike tour, renting a boat, or going indoor rock climbing. We’ve also included some overlooked activities like watching a show, attending a live sporting event, or even playing billiards(pool) or bowling.

NB: We link to Tiqets where you can buy tickets and  find all the fees and options and tax info on their website.

1) DISNEYLAND PARIS

Starting with the bleeding obvious, Disneyland Paris. What other place in Europe is synonymous with family fun. With two parks – Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park – your family will have plenty to see and do.

What makes Disneyland Paris great for kids besides the rides, characters and theme lands?  Here are some unique things you can do with kids at Disneyland Paris:

1. Disney Illuminations: Each evening, Disneyland Paris hosts a dazzling nighttime spectacular, combining fireworks, projections, and music to create an unforgettable show that lights up Sleeping Beauty Castle. This magical display is sure to captivate children and adults alike.
2. Princess and Pirate Makeovers: At the Princess Pavilion or Pirate’s Beach, kids can get a royal or swashbuckling makeover, complete with costumes, hair styling, and makeup. This immersive experience allows children to transform into their favorite Disney characters and make lasting memories.
3. Character Dining: Experience a unique meal with Disney characters at various dining locations throughout the park. Children can enjoy their favorite dishes while interacting with beloved characters such as Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, or Winnie the Pooh, making mealtime a memorable event.
4. Ratatouille: The Adventure: This one-of-a-kind attraction, exclusive to Walt Disney Studios Park, takes you on a 4D culinary adventure through the world of Remy, the talented rat chef from the movie Ratatouille. Kids will love the immersive experience as they “shrink” down to Remy’s size and navigate the bustling kitchen.
5. Alice’s Curious Labyrinth: This whimsical hedge maze, inspired by Alice in Wonderland, challenges kids to navigate their way through the twists and turns to reach the Queen of Hearts’ Castle. Along the way, they’ll encounter familiar characters and scenes from the classic story.
6. Jedi Training Academy: Located in Discoveryland, this interactive show invites kids aged 7 to 12 to learn the ways of the Force and hone their lightsaber skills under the guidance of a Jedi Master. Participants may even have the chance to face off against a classic Star Wars villain.
7. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show: For an unforgettable dinner experience, visit Disney Village for Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. This live-action spectacle features cowboy stunts, horseback riding, and Native American dancing, all while guests enjoy a Tex-Mex-inspired meal. The thrilling performance is sure to entertain kids and transport them back to the Wild West.

The downside is Disneyland is expensive and it’s also way outside of Paris so you’ll either need to sleep nearby or at least go for an entire day. We also think Paris itself has so much to offer kids it would be a shame to fly all the way there and only visit Disneyland 🙁

 

2) VISIT THE JARDIN DES PLANTES

+ NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

+ MENAGERIE (MICRO ZOO)

We’ve grouped these three together because they are in the same location and you can buy tickets for all or just one. You can enjoy the entire day with your kids here in fact and we recommend enjoy all three! So let’s delve in!

JARDIN DES PLANTES

The Jardin des Plantes is a beautiful botanical garden and home to the Natural Museum of Natural History.  The gardens are great to explore, especially on a nice day where you can explore thousands of plant species from around the world with your kids and enjoy grass covered fields. The garden includes themed areas such as the Alpine Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Mexican and Australian Greenhouses.

Jardin des Planets and Natural History Museum website

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Meanwhile Natural History Museum is full of incredible exhibits and interactive workshops to learn more about the natural world. Here are all the things you can do at the Natural History Museum with your kids:

1. Grande Galerie de l’Évolution: This impressive gallery showcases the diversity of life on Earth, with thousands of specimens from various animal species. The exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the history of evolution, explaining the mechanisms that drive the natural world.
2. Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie comparée: This gallery is home to an extensive collection of fossils, skeletons, and anatomical specimens. Highlights include the skeletons of dinosaurs, extinct mammals, and a blue whale. The exhibit is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of life on Earth and compare the anatomy of different species.
3. Galerie de Minéralogie et de Géologie: This gallery displays a vast collection of minerals, gems, and meteorites, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Earth’s geological treasures. Visitors can learn about the formation of minerals and the role they play in our planet’s history.
4. Galerie des Enfants (Children’s Gallery): This interactive exhibit is designed for young visitors and offers hands-on activities to explore various themes related to the natural world, such as biodiversity, ecosystems, and conservation.
5. Serres Tropicales (Tropical Greenhouses): These greenhouses feature lush, exotic plants from tropical rainforests, deserts, and other environments. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and learn about the adaptations that enable these plants to thrive in extreme conditions.
6. Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on different aspects of the natural world, including photography, scientific discoveries, and environmental issues. These exhibits provide an opportunity to learn about new research and developments in the field of natural history.
7. Workshops and Guided Tours: The museum offers a variety of workshops, guided tours, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. These activities provide an engaging and interactive way to learn about the exhibits and explore the fascinating world of natural history.

MENAGERIE (MICRO ZOO)

Right next door from the National History Museum and Jardin des Plantes is the Menagerie, the second oldest zoo in the world.   It is more centrally located than the Paris Zoo and therefore more convenient if you have a busy schedule but also much smaller. While the Menagerie is considered a micro zoo, it is fairly large considering it is home to hundreds of animals including all kinds of monkeys,  birds, a red panda, some exotic hoofed animals, snakes, lizards and even some small wild cats.  The best part of this zoo is the original 19th century enclosures as well as all the trees and vegetation.

 

 

3) VISIT THE PARIS ZOO

Unlike the small managerie, the Paris Zoo (Parc Zoologique de Paris) is HUGE and one of the best in the world. It’s often overlooked by visitors who think Paris is just museums and cafes. Nope! Paris is a world class city and you cant have a world class city without a world class zoo!

Located in the southwest of Paris within the Vincennes park and accessible by metro (Porte Doree stop), it’s the biggest zoo in Paris.  Like any world class zoo, they have all the animals you would expect to find such as lions, giraffes, elephants and zebras.  Here are all the biomes you can find at the Parc Zoologique:

1. Patagonia Biozone: This area features animals from South America, such as penguins, sea lions, and vicuñas. The exhibit showcases the unique landscapes and climate of the Patagonian region, allowing visitors to observe the fascinating adaptations of these creatures.
2. Sahel-Sudan Biozone: This biozone replicates the African savannah and is home to iconic species such as giraffes, zebras, rhinoceroses, and lions. Visitors can enjoy watching these animals roam freely in large, open spaces designed to mimic their natural habitat.
3. Amazon-Guyana Biozone: This lush, tropical exhibit is dedicated to the rich biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest and the Guyana region. Here, you can find jaguars, monkeys, toucans, and other exotic animals that call these vibrant ecosystems home.
4. Europe Biozone: This area features animals native to Europe, such as wolves, bears, and bison. The exhibit highlights the diverse landscapes of the European continent and provides a closer look at the local fauna.
5. Madagascar Biozone: This exhibit focuses on the unique and diverse wildlife found on the island of Madagascar. Visitors can encounter lemurs, fossas, and other species that are endemic to this isolated island.
6. Reptile House: The zoo’s reptile house features a variety of snakes, lizards, turtles, and other reptiles from around the world. The exhibit is designed to provide visitors with an up-close look at these fascinating creatures and their diverse habitats.
7. Aviary: The Paris Zoo boasts a large aviary that houses a diverse collection of birds from various regions. This attraction allows visitors to observe the unique behaviors and characteristics of different bird species, from colorful parrots to majestic birds of prey.
8. Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse: This greenhouse replicates a tropical rainforest environment, complete with lush vegetation, waterfalls, and exotic animals. Visitors can explore the multilayered ecosystem and discover the incredible biodiversity found within these dense forests.
9. Aquarium: The zoo’s aquarium showcases a variety of aquatic species, including fish, invertebrates, and amphibians, in carefully designed habitats that replicate their natural environments.
10. Educational Programs and Events: The Paris Zoo offers a range of educational programs, workshops, and guided tours, providing visitors with opportunities to learn more about the animals and their habitats. Additionally, the zoo hosts special events throughout the year, such as nocturnal visits and seasonal celebrations, which add to the excitement and charm of the park.

Get tickets to the Paris zoo

 

4) ENJOY RIDES & GAMES AT THE

JARDIN D’ACCLIMATATION

Nestled in the picturesque Bois de Boulogne, the Jardin d’Acclimatation is a charming amusement park perfect for younger children. With its vintage carousels, small roller coasters, pony rides, and a mini farm, there’s something for everyone. Here is a complete list of the top things you can do with your little ones:

1. Vintage Carousels: The park features a collection of beautifully restored, vintage carousels that provide a nostalgic experience for both kids and parents. Children can ride on charming wooden horses, cars, and other whimsical creatures.
2. Miniature Train: Kids can hop aboard the park’s miniature train, which takes passengers on a scenic journey through the park, offering views of its picturesque gardens, ponds, and attractions.
3. Enchanted River: A gentle boat ride on the Enchanted River allows children to explore the park’s waterways and encounter various animated scenes inspired by famous fairy tales and stories.
4. Exploradôme: This interactive science museum, located within the park, offers hands-on exhibits and workshops designed to engage and educate children on topics such as ecology, technology, and physics.
5. Pony Rides: Younger children can enjoy a leisurely pony ride through the park, guided by experienced handlers. This activity is both exciting and safe for young kids.
6. Petite Ferme (Mini Farm): The Jardin d’Acclimatation features a mini farm where children can interact with various farm animals, such as goats, sheep, and rabbits. This experience allows kids to learn about animals in a fun and interactive environment.
7. Trampolines and Bouncy Castles: The park offers a range of jumping and bouncing activities, including trampolines and inflatable bouncy castles, where kids can burn off energy and have a blast.
8. Themed Playgrounds: Jardin d’Acclimatation has several themed playgrounds that cater to different age groups and interests, including a pirate ship, a giant spider web, and a sand play area.
9. Workshops and Activities: Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of workshops and activities tailored for children, such as art classes, gardening workshops, and cooking lessons.
10. Seasonal Events: The Jardin d’Acclimatation hosts seasonal events and celebrations, such as Easter egg hunts, Halloween activities, and Christmas festivities, offering unique experiences for kids during these special times of the year.

Get Tickets to the Jardin d’Acclimatation

 

5) VISIT THE CITE DES SCIENCES

(SCIENCE MUSEUM)

For your curious, science-loving kids, a visit to the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is a must.  This interactive science museum has exhibits on topics such as astronomy, biology, and technology, all designed to be engaging and educational for young minds. The museum also features a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and a submarine to explore. It’s located in the northeast of Paris within a big park so plenty to do but here are the top attractions to see when you visit:

1. Cité des Enfants (Children Area): This dedicated children’s area is divided into two sections, one for ages 2-7 and another for ages 5-12. Both sections offer hands-on exhibits, games, and activities designed to help children explore scientific concepts, such as magnetism, water, light, and sound.
2. Planetarium: The museum’s planetarium offers immersive shows about the cosmos, where children can learn about the stars, planets, and other celestial objects. The shows cater to different age groups and interests, making it an engaging and educational experience.
3. Argonaute Submarine: The Argonaute is a real decommissioned French submarine that is now on display at the museum. Children can climb aboard and explore the vessel, learning about life under the sea and the science and technology behind submarines.
4. The Human Body Exhibit: This interactive exhibit helps children learn about the human body, its organs, and functions. It covers topics such as nutrition, senses, and the circulatory system, with engaging displays and hands-on activities.
5. Explora Exhibits: The Explora area features exhibits on a variety of scientific topics, including mathematics, transportation, and energy. Kids can explore these subjects through interactive displays, multimedia installations, and hands-on experiments.
6. La Geode: Although it’s not part of the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, La Geode is a nearby IMAX theater housed in a striking spherical building. The theater showcases a variety of science and nature films on its giant screen, offering an immersive experience for children and adults alike.
7. Workshops and Events: The museum offers a wide range of workshops, activities, and events for children, including science clubs, coding workshops, and holiday-themed events. These programs provide a fun and engaging way for kids to delve deeper into the world of science.
8. The Garden of Sounds: This outdoor area features interactive installations that allow children to experiment with sound and music, encouraging them to explore the science of acoustics and sound production.
9. Louis Lumière 3D Cinema: This 3D cinema offers a selection of films that take children on a journey through science, nature, and technology, providing an engaging and visually stunning experience.

Get tickets for Science Museum

 

 

6) TAKE A FUN BUS OR BOAT TOUR

There are some fun bus tours of Paris including Duck Tours, which take you around by road and also on the river! Then of course you have loads of boat tours which Paris is famous for not all are created equal.

Duck Tours is fairly new to Paris and offers two tours: the Seine river and Canal St. Martin which last two hours, or a 1.5 hour tour from Paris to Versailles. The tour includes a drink: champagne or soft drink and it’s not only fun to ride an amphibious vehicle but the tour offers some unique views of Paris.

Tootbus offers a child focused bus tour on an electric bus which is designed for kids and so full of fun stories and entertainment for kids. You also get to see many of the famous landmarks in Paris- win-win.

Another fun way to see Paris is at night on a bus tour when all the landmarks are lit up. It’s pure magic and a great after dinner activity to do with your kids!

Children Boat Cruise For Kids tickets

7) ENJOY A PLAYGROUND AT A PARK

Paris has some of the most beautiful parks in the world, including the massive Bois de Boulogne (Boulogne Forest) in the West and Bois de Vincennes in the East – and the best part is each has playgrounds and is fun to explore! Besides these two massive parks are Buttes-Chaumont in the north east which has lakes, follies and mini mountains and is just an absolute wild park with all kinds of areas to explore.

Parc Monceau in the center-west of Paris is small but impressive. It’s a 19th century park full of ponds, loads of grass to sit on, playgrounds, a running track and has a merry go round and even donkey rides for small children (see #20 below).

There are plenty of parks and green areas in Paris, all with playgrounds and activities for kids. Many have been upgrading facilities for kids like the Parc de Belleville, so you have to do some research.   Just note that services like food and merry-go-rounds all depends on the weather and many are seasonal e.g..  row boat rentals in in Bois de Boulogne or Vincennes is seasonal.

Also note that young kids can enjoy a donkey ride in Parc Monceau or in Bois de Boulogne. Availability varies according to the weather, but you can typically find donkeys and their care takers from Spring through Autumn,  and they tend to only accept cash- around 10 euros per ride around Parc Monceau for instance.

Read our guide to green spaces in Paris

 

8) GO ON A BIKE RIDE

Biking tours and bike rides using public bikes in Paris can be a fantastic and enjoyable way for families with kids to explore the city. Paris is increasingly becoming bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and paths that make it safer and more enjoyable to ride through the city’s charming streets and along the scenic riverbanks.

Biking Tours for Families:

1. Guided Tours: Several companies in Paris offer guided biking tours that are family-friendly. These tours are often led by knowledgeable guides who can provide interesting facts and stories about the city, making the experience both educational and entertaining for kids.
2. Customizable Routes: Many of these tours have routes that are tailored for families, ensuring that the ride is safe and enjoyable for children. These routes usually avoid heavy traffic areas and focus on the most scenic and kid-friendly attractions.

Public Bikes – Vélib’ System:

1. Vélib’ Bikes: Paris has a public bike-sharing system called Vélib’, which is accessible and user-friendly. While Vélib’ bikes are generally more suitable for adults and older children, some stations offer smaller bikes for younger riders.
2. Planning Your Route: When using Vélib’ bikes, it’s a good idea to plan your route in advance, focusing on areas with dedicated bike lanes and avoiding busy streets. Paris has many beautiful parks and river paths that are perfect for a leisurely bike ride with kids.
3. Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Ensure that everyone wears helmets, understands basic traffic rules, and stays on designated bike paths wherever possible.

Tips for a Successful Bike Ride with Kids in Paris:

• Start Early: To avoid the busiest times, start your bike ride early in the day.
• Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit.
• Include Breaks: Plan for regular breaks at parks or interesting spots where kids can rest and play.
• Keep It Fun: Focus on the experience rather than the distance. Allow time for spontaneous exploration and discovery.

Paris Bike Tour tickets -family, private and group

 

 

9) GO KARTING

With two locations outside Paris (one in the north and another in the south), BattleKart Paris offers a thrilling and unique go-karting experience that combines traditional karting with cutting-edge technology, making it a fantastic activity for families, friends, and gaming enthusiasts.

Here’s what makes BattleKart Paris stand out:

1. Augmented Reality Karting: At BattleKart, go-karting is elevated with the integration of augmented reality and video game concepts. The karts are equipped with technology that interacts with projections on the track, creating various game scenarios. This modern twist adds an extra layer of excitement to the traditional go-karting experience.
2. Game Varieties: Participants can engage in different types of games, such as collecting virtual objects on the track or competing in team challenges. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of age or interest.
3. Safety and Accessibility: The karts at BattleKart are designed with safety in mind, making them suitable for a wide range of ages. The staff also provides thorough instructions and safety briefings before each session, ensuring that all participants are well-informed and comfortable.
4. Group and Family Fun: BattleKart is an excellent choice for group outings, whether it’s a family day out, a birthday party, or a team-building event. The competitive and interactive nature of the games makes for an engaging and memorable experience.
5. Modern Facilities: The venue boasts modern facilities with comfortable seating areas for spectators, refreshments, and other amenities, making the entire experience enjoyable, even for those who prefer to watch the action.
6. Location: Situated in a convenient location in Paris, BattleKart is easily accessible, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add a fun and energetic activity to their Paris itinerary.

BattleKart Paris south (Massy) website

 

10) GO INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING

There are a number of indoor rocking climb venues around Paris and Arkose is the champion of Paris with one in central Paris (Nation) and then four just outside of Paris: Pantin, Issy, and Montreuil, Pont de Sevres.  They offer all kinds of packages which are great for the entire family or just for kids. For instance, your child can do a discovery training session with an instructor or can learn with other kids.

Arkose official website – 1st timers

 

11) VISIT PARC ASTERIX

Parc Asterix is located less than an hour outside Paris (north east) and is accessible by train. It’s essentially an amusement park inspired by the famous eponymous French comic book series.  Take your kids on a trip back in time to ancient Gaul  (pre Roman France) with more than 30 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows, Parc Astérix is a fantastic destination for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. Here are the top attractions for kids we recommend:

1. Forest of Idefix: This area is designed for younger children and features several gentle rides and attractions, such as the Enigmatix, a mini Ferris wheel, and the Lavomatix, a spinning barrel ride. The Forest of Idefix also includes play areas and opportunities to meet the park’s mascots, Astérix and Obélix.
2. Les Petits Chars Tamponneurs: This attraction, also known as the “Bumper Cars for Kids,” allows young children to experience the thrill of bumper cars in a safe, age-appropriate environment.
3. Le Carrousel de César: This beautifully designed carousel, featuring horses and chariots, provides a gentle and enjoyable ride for young children.
4. La Rivière d’Elis: This relaxing boat ride takes visitors through a serene landscape with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and animatronic characters from the world of Astérix and Obélix.
5. Epidemaïs Croisières: This gentle boat ride transports visitors through the world of ancient Rome, with humorous scenes and animatronic characters providing entertainment along the way.
6. Le Petit Train: This mini train ride takes children on a journey through different scenes from the Astérix comic books, offering a fun and engaging experience.
7. Les Petites Chaises Volantes: This mini swing ride, designed for younger visitors, allows children to experience the excitement of flying through the air in a safe and enjoyable manner.
8. Aérodynamix: This attraction offers a thrilling flight experience for kids, as they pilot their own mini planes, controlling their altitude and speed.
9. Les Espions de César: In this interactive ride, children can join the Roman spies in their quest to gather information on the Gauls, maneuvering their carts through a labyrinth of obstacles.
10. Menhir Express: This family-friendly log flume ride takes visitors through a scenic route before plunging down a thrilling water drop. The Menhir Express is a great way for kids to cool off on a hot day and enjoy some excitement.

Tickets to Parc Asterix

 

12) VISIT THE

BEST MILITARY MUSEUM IN THE WORLD!

Attention all adventurous families with history-loving older kids! Get ready to march into Musee de l’Armee aka Les Invalides, one of the world’s most magnificent military museums! Even if military history isn’t your top passion, this colossal museum will capture your imagination with its sheer size and outstanding presentation. If samurai warriors and knights in shining armor doesnt do it for your little one then how about an impressive WW2 museum or seeing NAPOLEON’S TOMB!?!?!?!?

There are over 5 mini-museums nestled within its walls, each brimming with fascinating stories and artifacts as well films and interactive displays.  This museum is HUGE and very well done so you can spend the whole day here or just choose one topic to focus one since each will take hours to complete!!

So gather your little troops and embark on an unforgettable journey through history at Les Invalides!

Get tickets for the Military Museum

 

 

 

13) WATCH A LIVE SPORTING EVENT

Paris is home to not only WORLD events (hosting Olympics in 2024) but incessantly hosts international sporting events. From Roland Garros (French Tennis Open) to Tour de France….to judo, ice hockey, fencing, MMA etc. NON STOP. It all depends when you visit.

Besides these international competitions, Paris is home to hundreds of sporting clubs including Paris Saint Germain football club and several top rugby teams like Racing 92. Racing now plays in a brand new arena in the west of Paris (in La Defense) and hosts games frequently.

Check out whats’s on at Ticketmaster

14) RIDE A HORSE IN VERSAILLES

Located in Maisons-Laffitte just to the west of Paris, Horse Holidays France offers tours on horseback around Maisons-Laffitte where they are based and even around the town and gardens of Versailles palace! If your kids are big enough and love horses they will most definitely enjoy this.

And if horses intimidate you then go for a bike ride instead:

Book a Bike Tour around gardens of Versailles

 

15) WATCH A PLAY OR BROADWAY SHOW

There are a few English language plays on in Paris at any given time so you have to simply see what’s playing. For example, Le Roi Lion (The Lion King) was playing for years and L’Oiseau Paradis, a cabaret show at the Paradis Latin adapted for kids is currently running. Note that it combines elements of traditional cabaret with modern circus acts, making it suitable for families. No nudity or anything potentially inappropriate.

Buy Ticket for Paradis Latin

See which theatre shows are playing in Paris

 

16) VISIT THE CATACOMBS

Visiting the Catacombs of Paris can be an intriguing and educational experience for kids, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history. However, it’s important to consider the nature of the catacombs before planning a visit with children.

The Catacombs of Paris are an underground ossuary, which means they house the remains of millions of people. The walls are lined with bones and skulls, which can be both fascinating and a bit unsettling. For children who are interested in history, archaeology, or the macabre, a visit to the catacombs could be a memorable and thought-provoking experience.

Tickets to the Catacomb

17) ZIPLINE IN THE FOREST

Ziplining in Paris? Well not quite. Outside of Paris- but not far! You just have to venture a tad outside of Paris to one of the forests. Accrocamp offers one in Reuil-Malmaison and Saint Germain en Laye, both suburbs in the West of Paris.

Tickets for Accrocamp zipline Saint Germain en Laye

Tickets for Accrocamp zipline in Reuil-Malmaison.

18) TAKE A BOAT OUT

ON A CANAL OR LAKE

While only available from Spring through end of Autumn, you can take a boat out in many places across Paris. Besides row boats in public parks, a company called Marin d’Eau Douce offers mini electric boat rentals in and around Paris. Starting at 40 euros an hour, you can hire (rent) a small electric powered boat for 5 people from Marin D’Eau Douce and take it along the Seine river across Paris.

If seeking to take a boat out in central Paris then you have to pick up the boat from Bassin La Villette. They also have hundreds of locations across France including a few just outside of Paris. They offer a variety of tariffs depending on the size of boat and length of time. And while their boats don’t go very fast, they are safe and comfortable. The best part is that you don’t need a boating license to use one!  Marin d’Eau Douce  are open 7 days a week however closed during the winter months.

Marin d’Eau Douce website

 

 

19) PLAY GOLF

OK not all kids love golf but if they do, there is a great spot on the outskirts of Paris in the Bois de Boulogne where you can practice. This includes a nice driving range and several practice areas. It’s a fun escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris.

Have a look at our guide covering both golf and tennis for our top recommendations.

 

 

20) GO BOWLING

OR

PLAY SOME POOL/BILLIARDS

Bowling under the Arc de Triomphe? Yes indeed. It may not be the first activity that comes to mind when in Paris but it’s a fun break from all the sightseeing.

There are only a handful of good bowling and billiards halls in Paris that are open to the public.

We’ve picked the best ones so have a look at our guide covering both bowling and pool/billiard halls.

 

 

Finally, if you’re looking for a good deal, you can purchase the Paris City Card for 82 euros, which includes a cruise along the seine via Bateaux Parisiens, Louvre museum access plus access to the Eiffel Tower and an audio guide (app). And if you have a kids or just looking for something a bit more relaxed, the Paris Family Fun Pass for 51 euros includes access to the Paris Zoo (world class and not to be missed!), Gallerie D’Evolution at the Natural History Museum (skip the line) and the Grevin Wax museum. Click below for more details!

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