Discover the best free things to do in Paris with children. This guide reveals family-friendly free attractions in Paris that will delight visitors of all ages without costing a euro.
Paris might be known as a city of romance, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families with children. From interactive museums with free days to enchanting parks with puppet shows, there are countless ways to entertain kids in the City of Light without spending a fortune. This guide highlights the most enjoyable family-friendly experiences that won’t cost you a cent.
Magical Parks and Playgrounds
Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens offers one of the best children’s playgrounds in Paris, plus puppet shows, pony rides (the only activity with a small fee), and a historic carousel. Kids can also rent miniature sailboats to push around the central fountain—a quintessential Parisian childhood experience. Best time: Wednesday afternoons when French schools finish early or weekend mornings
Parc de la Villette
This innovative park features 10 themed gardens, including the Garden of Mirrors, the Garden of Dunes, and the Garden of Acrobatics. The Dragon Garden playground is particularly popular with its climbing structures shaped like a dragon. Best time: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
Jardin d’Acclimatation
While some attractions within this park charge a fee, entry to the park itself is free. Children will enjoy the impressive playgrounds and watching animals in the mini-farm area. Best time: Weekday mornings, avoid weekends if possible
Parc André Citroën
This modern park features dancing fountains where children can splash around during summer months—one of the most refreshing free activities in Paris during hot days. The large lawns are perfect for picnics and games. Best time: Sunny afternoons, especially during summer
Interactive Museums with Free Days
Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
This science museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of each month. The dedicated children’s section (Cité des Enfants) requires a ticket, but the main exhibitions are free on these days and contain plenty to engage curious young minds. Best time: First Sunday of the month, arrive early
Natural History Museum
The Gallery of Evolution at the Natural History Museum fascinates children with its parade of animals and impressive dinosaur skeletons. Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month. Best time: First Sunday, arrive when it opens
Petit Palais
Always free to enter, this art museum offers family workshops on Saturdays and a beautiful interior garden courtyard where kids can take a break. Best time: Saturday mornings for family activities
Educational Free Attractions in Paris
Notre-Dame Archaeological Crypt
While waiting for Notre-Dame Cathedral’s restoration, families can visit the archaeological crypt for free on the first Sunday of each month. Kids are fascinated by the ancient ruins beneath Paris. Best time: First Sunday, early morning
Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris)
The courtyard and certain exhibitions at the Paris Mint are free to visit. Children enjoy learning about how money is made and seeing the historical coin collections. Best time: Weekday afternoons
Covered Passages
These historic glass-roofed shopping arcades from the 19th century offer protection from rain and make for a fun treasure hunt through the city. Challenge kids to find all the unique details in passages like Galerie Vivienne or Passage des Panoramas. Best time: Anytime, especially on rainy days
Seasonal Fun Activities to Do in Paris with Kids
Paris Plages (July-August)
During summer, artificial beaches appear along the Seine with sand, games, and free activities for children. It’s one of the most popular free things to do in Paris for families during summer months. Best time: Weekday mornings before it gets crowded
Christmas Displays
In December, department store window displays become magical animated scenes that enchant children. Galeries Lafayette and Printemps on Boulevard Haussmann offer the most spectacular displays. Best time: Weekday mornings to avoid weekend crowds
Free Outdoor Movies
During summer, Parc de la Villette hosts open-air cinema screenings, with many family-friendly options included in the program. Best time: Arrive 1-2 hours early to secure a good spot
Kid-Friendly Cultural Experiences
Street Performances
Areas like Centre Pompidou plaza and the Shakespeare & Company bookstore often feature street performers who appeal to children, from musicians to bubble artists and magicians. Best time: Weekend afternoons
Free Music Conservatory Concerts
The Paris Conservatory regularly hosts free student concerts that can introduce children to classical music in short, manageable performances. Best time: Check the conservatory website for family-friendly concert times
Balloon Ride Views (Ground-Level Only)
While the actual balloon ride at Parc André Citroën costs money, children enjoy watching the massive balloon rise and descend—a free spectacle that fascinates many kids. Best time: Calm weather days, typically afternoons
Fun Places to Visit in Paris for Sweet Treats
Window Shopping at Patisseries
Create a patisserie tour where kids can admire the colorful macarons and elaborate cakes in shop windows. Even without purchasing anything, this is a sensory delight. Best time: Morning hours when fresh pastries are on display
Food Markets
Exploring markets like Marché d’Aligre offers sensory experiences with free samples sometimes available. Children enjoy seeing the colorful produce and learning about French foods. Best time: Morning hours when markets are bustling
Tips for Family-Friendly Paris on a Budget
- Picnic Preparation: Grab affordable baguettes, cheese, and fruits from local bakeries and markets for picnics in parks.
- Water Fountains: Paris has over 800 public drinking fountains including Wallace fountains. Bring reusable bottles to stay hydrated for free.
- Public Toilets: Note the locations of free public toilets for family emergencies—they’re available throughout tourist areas.
- Museum Planning: Most national museums offer free entry to children under 18 regardless of nationality, so only parents need to plan around free days.
- Free Sunday Transportation: If visiting on the first Sunday of the month for free museums, remember that many public transportation options offer reduced rates for children.
Paris offers countless opportunities for family fun without spending a fortune. By focusing on these free places to visit in Paris with children, you can create magical memories while keeping your travel budget intact. The key is planning your days around free access times and embracing the city’s abundant public spaces designed for enjoyment by visitors of all ages.