Where to Stay in Paris with Kids (From Someone Who Goes Every Year)
I plan destination weddings in Paris for a living, and I also bring my kids. Over the last six years we’ve done this trip more than ten times — staying everywhere from the 10th to the 16th, to the Left Bank over in Saint-Germain. Here are our favorite neighborhoods:
The 8th — Our Usual Base
We almost always end up in the 8th, near Madeleine. It puts me close to the Palace hotels I often work at like Hôtel de Crillon or Le Meurice, without being stuck in the chaos of rue de Rivoli. My boys can walk to the Tuileries playground in ten minutes, which is one of the best in the city. Tip: the vintage Belle Époque carousel next to it is €3 per ride (cash is king).
After the gardens we usually end up in Little Tokyo for dinner — the Japanese restaurants near rue Sainte-Anne are authentic and reliable if you’re craving Asian food (which we always are).
The 6th — My Personal Favorite
When I’m not working, the 6th is where we want to be. It’s slower, quieter, more residential. Rue du Cherche-Midi, just one block from le Bon Marché, is one of our favorite streets because it’s lined with great shopping and places to eat without feeling touristy. La Maison des Histoires is also just around the corner on Rue de Sèvres — it’s a children’s play museum hidden inside an iconic bookstore.
But the real reason is Jardin du Luxembourg. There’s a playground (€3 per child ages 3–12, €1 per adult, under 2 free), toy sailboats, pony rides, and a puppet show. And the oldest active carousel in Paris — built in 1879 by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the Paris Opera. Original wooden horses, €2 per ride, and kids use a stick to catch brass rings as they spin. We’ve lost entire afternoons here. Budget at least three hours.
The 16th — The One People Overlook
Nobody talks about the 16th and that’s exactly why we like it. It feels like a neighborhood, not a tourist destination — classic bistros, green spaces, small playgrounds like Square Thomas Jefferson. It’s quieter than most of central Paris partly because so many embassies are based there.
You’re also closer to Jardin d’Acclimatation which is a huge park with an amusement park, fairground, and petting zoo — genuinely a full day with young kids.
And you still have Eiffel Tower views from Trocadéro, which is one of the best vantage points in the city that’s completely free.
Which One Is Right for You?
First trip → 8th. Central, walkable, the Tuileries will save you on a hard day.
Been before and want to slow down → 6th. Luxembourg Gardens is worth the whole trip.
Want something quieter and more local → 16th. Fewer tourists, better bistros, still great access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best neighborhood in Paris to stay in with young kids?
The 8th arrondissement near Madeleine is the best base for most families, especially on a first trip. You’re walking distance to the Jardin des Tuileries playground, close to great restaurants, and centrally located without being in the middle of tourist chaos on rue de Rivoli.
Is Paris a good destination for toddlers and young kids?
Yes — and it’s underrated for it. Paris has excellent playgrounds, free parks, carousels, puppet shows, and a pace that works well for young kids when you base yourself in the right neighborhood. We’ve been taking our boys since they were toddlers and it gets better every trip.
Is the 16th arrondissement good for families?
Yes, and it’s the most overlooked neighborhood for families. It’s quieter than central Paris, has green spaces and small playgrounds throughout, and is close to Jardin d’Acclimatation — a full park with an amusement park, fairground, and petting zoo. You still have easy access to the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro.
Is Jardin du Luxembourg good for kids?
It’s one of the best spots in Paris for young kids. The garden has toy sailboats, pony rides, a puppet show, a playground (€3 per child ages 3–12), and the oldest active carousel in Paris — built in 1879 with original wooden horses and a traditional ring-catching game. Budget at least three hours.
What is the best area in Paris for stroller-friendly walks?
The 6th arrondissement and Jardin du Luxembourg are the most stroller-friendly — wide gravel paths, flat terrain, and plenty of space. The Tuileries in the 8th is also good. Avoid the Marais for strollers — charming but cobblestones everywhere.
The Full Paris Guide
We’ve spent six years figuring out what actually works in Paris with young kids — hotels, restaurants, itineraries, what to skip. It’s all in my 30-page guide, get it here.