Paris has a way of winning over even the most reluctant traveller — and the good news for families is that some of its very best experiences don’t cost a cent. From world-famous landmarks to leafy parks made for running around in, here are 10 free things to do in Paris with kids that will make your trip memorable without stretching the budget.
Jump to:
- Eiffel Tower views and photos
- La Promenade Plantée
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Parc André Citroën
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Sacré-Coeur
- Parc de la Villette
- The Love Wall
- Louvre and Musée d’Orsay
- Jardin des Plantes
1. Photos at the Eiffel Tower, Champ-de-Mars
No list of free things to do in Paris would be complete without this iconic landmark. Climbing the Eiffel Tower comes with a ticket price, but simply standing back to admire it — and grabbing that classic family photo — costs nothing at all. Head to the Champ-de-Mars gardens at the base of the tower, where there’s a small playground and carousel to keep younger children entertained while the grown-ups soak up the view.
2. Stroll La Promenade Plantée
Tucked away in east Paris, La Promenade Plantée is one of the city’s loveliest secrets. This tree-lined walkway stretches around 4.5km along a disused railway viaduct, lifting you above the streets for a completely different view of the city. It’s an easy, flat walk that’s great for buggies and little legs alike.
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3. Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame Cathedral remains one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Paris, with its soaring architecture and famous gargoyles (see if the kids can spot the one wearing a hat, round the side of the building). The cathedral underwent major restoration following the 2019 fire and has since reopened to visitors, though it’s worth checking current visiting arrangements before you travel. Either way, the surrounding squares and bridges are always full of life, with street performers and musicians adding to the atmosphere.
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4. Play-time at Parc André Citroën
This futuristic park is a fantastic open green space, and the only one in Paris with direct access to the River Seine. It’s split into three themed sections and features computerised fountains, waterfalls, glasshouses and unusual plants. Kids will love:
- The ball-games area.
- Ping-pong tables dotted around the park.
- Spring-based toys built for bouncing.
- A tethered hot air balloon offering rides high above the park (a paid extra, so check availability on the day).
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5. Explore Jardin du Luxembourg
These stunning gardens date back to 1612 and are split into formal French gardens and more relaxed English-style grounds. In between, you’ll find a small forest and a large pond where kids can rent and steer remote-control boats.
There’s plenty to discover here — an apiary where little ones can learn about bees, greenhouses full of orchids, and famous statues scattered throughout the gardens, including the grand Medici fountain. There’s a lovely playground for younger children (a small entry fee applies), plus regular puppet shows and live concerts at the bandstand.
6. Sacré-Coeur
The views from outside Sacré-Coeur, perched at the top of Montmartre hill, are some of the best in the city — so bring your camera before you tackle the steps. Inside, the ceiling is covered in the largest mosaic in France. The streets around the basilica are equally charming, packed with quirky shops and cafés worth a wander.
7. Open-Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette
Parc de la Villette is a brilliant spot for families, designed with playful red pavilions (or folies) that double as giant climbing frames, plus a Chinese dragon slide that kids adore. During the summer months, the park has traditionally hosted a free open-air cinema — it’s worth checking closer to your travel dates whether it’s running that year.
8. The Love Wall
Just a short walk from Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre, the Love Wall is a striking mural featuring the words “I love you” written in hundreds of languages. It makes for a fun, low-key stop with kids — see how many languages you can identify together, and it’s a lovely spot for a family photo.
