Paris In 3 Days: The Perfect 3-Day Paris Itinerary With Kids + Tips and Map (2024)

Are you looking for an itinerary for Paris in 3 days? If you are planning to visit Paris with kids, either for a long weekend or as part of a longer France trip, this Paris in 3 days itinerary is for you.

Paris is a magical city (oh, how I miss Paris.) My husband and I lived there for a few months, and we have visited Paris many times with our kids. I am often asked by family, friends, and readers for my Paris itinerary ideas as this is one of our favorite cities in the world to visit with kids (along with London with kids, of course.) So, I finally decided to share my perfect itinerary for Paris with kids.

When you only have 3 days in Paris and are wondering what to do, you need to plan the sights you want to see to make the most out of your vacation in France. You will, of course, want to see the Eiffel Tower, the outside of Notre Dame (until it is rebuilt), wander through neighborhoods like Monmarte and the Marais, and so much more. This Paris itinerary has it all, but it is especially a Paris itinerary meant for families.

In fact, our first visit to Paris with kids in tow was when our son was two years old. It is definitely a doable city for kids from toddlers to teens.

There are so many fun things to do that kids can do, like visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, Centre Pompidou, Monmarte, Champs de Mars, and even the Louvre Museum. You can see quite a lot of the city with this 3 days in Paris itinerary. So let’s get to it, so you can plan for your Paris with kids vacation.

This Paris in 3 days itinerary post contains affiliate links which means I receive a commission at no cost to you if you make a purchase using this link. See my disclosures. Cover photo: Bon Voyage With Kids

About My 3 Days in Paris Itinerary

I’m often asked, “How do you plan a 3-days in Paris itinerary?” And I admit, it can be tricky, especially if you have never been to Paris before.

But it can be done as I’ve been to various places in Europe with three kids under the age of four. More than that, we lived in Paris and have been with our kids many times so this Paris itinerary is tried and true and kid-friendly!

Our Experience Traveling To Paris With Kids

When visiting Paris, our family loves to see major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and my personal favorite stop, Notre Dame. Unfortunately, due to the catastrophic fire a few years ago, you can’t yet return to visiting the inside, but it is worth at least stopping by on the outside.

When we visit Paris, we like to visit many key sites and neighborhoods, but we also like to have immersive, cultural experiences. Traveling with kids in a big European city center means they can’t do as much as adults, so doing some cultural activities, taking breaks to enjoy delicious foods, and immersing in the culture is part of this 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Maximizing Your Time In Paris

Some of the ways to maximize your time on your Paris itinerary is to do things to get an overview of the city, like on a Seine River Cruise or a hop-on, hop-off bus. My kids love to see soccer games, so doing as the locals do is one of the unique ways to experience Parisien life on my 3 days in Paris itinerary.

We also love to do family-friendly tours and activities.

When you want to do Paris in 3 days, it’s important to streamline your trip. This way, you can get in as many activities as possible during your 3 days in Paris with kids. In the summer, you can expect to wait in long lines at the major attractions, so you’ll want to get tickets in advance so you can skip the line at any places you want to see.

If this is your first visit to the city, you’re in for a treat. You can use this example of a 3 days in Paris itinerary to create your own perfect itinerary for a great trip to this amazing location.

About Paris

Paris is the Capital of France and is located in the north-central part of the country. The neat thing about Paris is that it’s located along the Seine River.

That’s where you see some of the iconic pictures of famous Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and river cruises. And the famous Champs-Élysées, known as the most beautiful avenue in the world, is the city’s historic thoroughfare and is a shopper’s paradise with plenty of things to do.

Many people dream of traveling to Paris for its food, art, culture, literature, and stunning architecture. And for many, when they visit Paris, they are marking a travel location off their bucket list.

It’s also known as a great center for learning and education, and people have lived on the current site of the modern city for thousands of years. There are so many learning experiences in the city that you could visit for 3 days in Paris many times and still not see everything.

And if you’re wondering, “Is Paris a good place to take kids?” It is!

Why Visit Paris with Kids

Paris is very kid-friendly, and we lived in Paris for three months before we had kids, so I am very familiar with the city.

We started visiting Paris with little ones soon after we had kids, starting when our oldest was 2 years old. But I’ve been there with a two-year-old, a five-year-old, seven-year-old, and older kids, so I know it’s perfect for families. After all, many families live in the city of Paris, so when you visit, you’ll be among many families.

It’s the perfect place to teach your kids history, art, and culture, to hear a bit of French language, and more with all the fun activities there are to do. It’s also a great place to learn about Parisienne and French culture.

Take the kids on a walking tour to see an area up close for a unique view of Paris, climb the Eiffel Tower, ride the train in Monmarte, or take a neat cruise on the Seine.

The kids will be delighted with all the sights and sounds you’ll see exploring the city during this 3 days in Paris itinerary.

3 Days in Paris Itinerary

You may be wondering, is 3 days enough time in Paris? 3 days in Paris is enough to take in many of the sights and give an overview of the city. But the more time you have, the better.

I have added some extra activities for a Paris itinerary of 4 days or more. You could even add in a Paris itinerary for 5 days if you have time.

Day 1 of 3 Days in Paris

• Arrival in Paris
• Enjoy a hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Visit Notre Dame Cathedral (outside) and Sainte-Chapelle
• Walk through the Marais neighborhood
• Head over to St. Germain to visit the Garden du Luxembourg
• Have dinner at a Creperie

Arriving in Paris is exciting as you can feel the very heartbeat of this vibrant city, and you know there are all kinds of exciting things to do. The activities above are some must-sees on your visit to Paris and make the perfect 3 or 4 days in Paris itinerary.

Enjoy a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Depending on your arrival time and if you are jetlagged, I recommend starting with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. It’s a great way to orient yourself to the city and get to places easily, as well as learn some things along the way. Many of the recommendations on Day 1 can be accessed during a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and Walk Through the Marais Neighborhood

One of the first things you can do on your 3 Days in Paris itinerary is walk around Le Marais. Historically, it has been home to many Jewish families, and many streets are immersed in Jewish history. Today, it is a mix of many communities.

This area is beautiful, full of shops and cafes, and is a great place for a walkabout. I think it’s a great place to start to see and experience Paris.

It’s just a 10 or 15-minute walk to the Notre Dame Cathedral on foot from the Marais. You can also get there by bus, taxi, or metro by way of the St. Michel Notre Dame metro station stop.

Notre Dame de Paris is one of the most famous landmarks in the world, and the location is a great photo opportunity. It’s a medieval Catholic cathedral dating back to the 12th century on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissem*nt of Paris. The cathedral is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the world.

Unfortunately, a massive fire broke out in the Notre Dame Cathedral on April 15, 2019, and destroyed the clock, spire, and central frame of the cathedral. Restorations are in progress, and the craftsmen are rushing to finish by the 2024 Olympics.

Currently, you can’t go inside the Cathedral yet, but it is one of the most beautiful and iconic European landmarks. So I recommend at least seeing the outside on your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Stop at Sainte-Chapelle On Your Way

You can also visit Sainte-Chapelle while you are in the area. This is definitely one of Paris’s hidden gems and often overlooked by tourists. It’s within walking distance and is known for all the stained glass inside it.

In the heart of Île de la Cité sits Sainte-Chapelle, often overlooked by visitors on their way to Notre Dame. But in that, you can’t get inside Notre Dame at this time, I highly recommend a stop at Sainte-Chapel.

Visiting European cathedrals is one of my favorite things to do when traveling, and Sainte-Chapel is a pure example of why. It’s simply stunning, with walls of stained glass that will take your breath away. It hosts one of the most extensive collections of 13-century stained glass anywhere in the world.

Some other places to see and things to do around Notre Dame de Paris include:

• The Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
• The Archeological Crypt of the Parvis of Notre Dame
• Pont de l’Archevêché
• Pont au Double
• Quartier de l’Ancien Cloître
• Le Caveau de la Huchette – a jazz bar
• La Nouvelle Seine

And more.

St. Germain, the Jardin du Luxembourg, and Latin Quarter

The beautiful St. Germain is the 6th Arrondissem*nt of Paris and is known for the many famous artists who lived there in the 19th and 20th centuries. You must add it to the list of places to see when you visit Paris or on your family-friendly day walking tour. It’s a must-visit during your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

It’s also one of the best shopping areas in the city, and it’s a great place to stay as everything is right at your fingertips. There are plenty of shops, brasseries, cafes, and creperies – the small restaurants that serve crepes (both savory and sweet.) Today would be a great day to eat at one or even stop somewhere and get some ice cream on your Paris itinerary.

You won’t want to miss the Jardin du Luxembourg or Luxembourg Gardens that were created under the initiative of Queen Marie de Medicine in 1612. The famous Boboli Gardens in Florence inspired it.

The 25 acres of gardens are divided into English and French gardens.

There are also several areas for kids to play, like the playground, puppets, and a water area, so it makes a great place to sit either before or after dinner when you have 3 days in Paris.

Also, on your way to or from St. Germain, be sure and wander through the Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissem*nt. This is known for Sorbonne University, but it hosts both the oldest street in Paris – Rue Saint Jacques – as well as one of the oldest and most beautiful – Rue Mouffetard.

This is where you will find classic Paris and a traditional Parisian market, and it’s a wonderful way to spend part of your 1st Paris itinerary day.

Dinner at a Creperie in St. Germain

Now, one thing to note is that in Europe, dining is a different experience. You can expect the French to eat later in the day, so sometimes restaurants aren’t open until 6 or 7 p.m. in the evening.

You may also find that animals are beloved companions who join their owners for dining. We had a cat sitting with us in our Creperie, and another dinner included a dog staring at us from the table next to us. “C’est normal,” as they say in French.

But caping your perfect Paris itinerary with both a savory and sweet crepe is one of our favorite ways to finish our first Paris itinerary day.

Day 2 of 3 Days in Paris

• Eiffel Tower
• Champs Elysee and Arc de Triomphe
• Galeries Lafayette
• Jardin du Tulleri
• Hot Chocolate at Angelina’s
• Dinner at Entrecote

There are plenty of fun things to do on the Paris itinerary for 2 days or on day 2 of your 3 days in Paris itinerary. It will start with a stunning view of Paris from up to 300 meters high in the Eiffel Tower. Now, as one of Paris’s most visited landmarks, there are a few things you should know before visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The Eiffel Tower

You can’t visit Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower! This iconic landmark was built by Gustave Eiffel in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle that celebrated the 100-year anniversary of the French Revolution. With 3 days in Paris, I would say the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe are two things you must see during your visit.

The Eiffel Tower has some extraordinary light and fireworks shows and is a breathtaking sight when it’s lit up at night. So no matter if you make it up in the Eiffel Tower during your 3 days in Paris itinerary, be sure and at least watch it sparkle at night.

What You Need To Know About Visiting The Eiffel Tower With Kids

First, there are two ways up the tower. You can take the stairs or elevators, but the lines for the elevators are long to reach the top of the Eiffel Tower.

If you’re wondering if there is a guided tour of the tower, you can book one with an external service provider, just not through the teams that manage the tower itself. Many places give tours of the Eiffel Tower, but not all of them provide tickets to the top level.

Be sure to book your tickets PRIOR to your arrival to ensure you get to see it or are able to get to the top if you choose this option. This is one of the best tips I can give you – and take it from personal experience. You don’t want to get there and not get your chance to see it!

But if you want to skip the ticket line, you can still see amazing views from the second level. You can also buy fast-track tickets online (skip-the-line tickets) but they are expensive.

Another way to get a great view of the Eiffel Tower is to have a picnic in Champ de Mars which is the little park in front of it. This is an iconic location and a great place to take a few photos of your 3 days in Paris vacation. Also, kids might love a ride on one of the beautiful carousels located throughout the city, including one at the Champs de Mars.

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

The Champs-Élysée is another famous location on the list of the best attractions for your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Every day nearly 300,000 people who visit Paris come to admire the grand monuments that line it. If you only have 3 days in Paris, it’s a must-see attraction for the perfect Paris itinerary.

And one of the grandest is the Arc de Triomphe. In 1936, Arc de Triomphe was inaugurated by King Louis-Phillipe and dedicated to the Revolution and Empire armies.

In 1921, the unknown soldier was buried at the base of the 50-meter-high arch. Many people come to pay respect to the lives lost when visiting Paris.

Each day, someone rekindles the flame of remembrance at 6:30 PM, and it is quite a scene to take in, so remember it with a photo of the Arc de Triomphe.

What To Do When Visiting The Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

You surely have seen the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe on television or in photos. It is one of the most iconic streets in Paris. Not only is it ridden by the Tour de France bike riders, but the Bastille Day parade is often on this road. It is also dotted with some of the most glamorous shops and storefronts in all of Paris.

This street and the Arc de Triomphe are a must-stop during your 3 days in Paris. While I recommend taking photos, be careful of the traffic around the Arc de Triomphe as it is quite busy.

But, you can certainly admire it and take in the city while dining in one of the outdoor cafes. After all, when in Paris, do as the Parisiennes do!

While you are visiting the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe, be sure to stop by the Galeries Lafayette just for a browse. It’s an iconic department store – much like Harrods in London – that is a must-see.

The original is located at Boulevard Haussmann and is a sight to behold, but this one is also well worth a visit. France is known for fashion, so visiting this shop on one of the most iconic streets in Paris is a great addition to your perfect Paris itinerary day 2.

Jardin du Tuileries

The Tuileries Garden is named after the tile factories that stood where Queen Catherine de Medici built the palace in 1564. This garden is located close to the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre Museum across the Rue de Rivoli.

Each Tuileries garden is unique and stunning to see. You will want to take a photo wherever you can as it’s one of the more stunning attractions you must add to your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

There’s a traditional fair with bumper cars, a carousel, and more that are a must to see if you’re visiting Paris with kids during the summertime. The kids will love the rides and fairground treats like Italian ice cream, cotton candy, crepes, and more, so make sure to add them to your Paris itinerary.

Stop at Angelina’s For a Hot Chocolate

There is one place I must recommend during your 3 days in Paris not to skip if you are visiting Paris with kids. A stop at Angelina’s on the Rue de Rivoli is a great place for an afternoon snack.

This iconic restaurant is everything you would think a Parisienne tea room would be. It’s full of luxurious treats kids will love, like beautiful macarons and other delights.

But the hot chocolate is famous. Even if you are visiting in the heat of the summer, do not miss this Parisienne specialty during your 3 days in Paris.

Dinner at La Relais de L’Entrecôte (a hidden gem!)

For dinner on this day, I’m sharing one of our favorite hidden gem restaurants – La Relais de L’Entrecôte. Now, my husband and I LOVE this spot, but if you are a vegetarian or don’t like beef, this is not the restaurant for you.

In those cases, I would recommend a brasserie, or for a famous spot, consider Brasserie Bellanger (near the Gare du Nord train station) or Brasserie Les Deux Palais (which sits opposite the Sainte Chapelle and Palais de Justice de Paris on Île de la Cité.)

But if you would to enjoy a unique dining experience, our family loves La Relais de L’Entrecôte” or just “Entrecôte” as it is known. This unique restaurant is very special, nestled right in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

It remains the same as it has for over 60 years, with a very typical French bistro ambiance. It maintains a simple ambiance, servers dressed in black with white aprons, and simplicity in its menu with one main item, but it is so worth it.

The main menu only serves the most delicious grilled beef steak and golden buttered french fries with their famous sauce and a lovely walnut salad as a starter. It also boasts a selection of delicious French wines and gourmet French desserts. I highly recommend the profiteroles.

It does not take reservations, so you need to get in a queue prior to its opening around 6:45 p.m. to get a seat. They also offer a lunch service that begins at 12 p.m.

I recommend getting there early as seating is limited in this charming and intimate restaurant, but it is so worth it. It is a truly unique French dining experience with exquisite French food you won’t forget.

Day 3 of 3 Days in Paris

• Visit Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur
• Take a train ride around Monmarte and have a portrait done
• Take an evening or afternoon boat ride on the Seine River cruise
• See the Eiffel Tower Lit Up
• Have Dinner at Flams

Visit Montmartre

Montmartre is a village in the very heart of Paris. You can take the metro there.

Sacre Coeur

It has cobbled streets, bistros, and an epic landmark for the city – The Sacre Coeur. Built in the 1800s in the Romano-Byzantine style, this beautiful church is an important worship place in Paris. It’s a stunning cathedral well worth a visit, and it is another of my favorite places to visit in Paris.

The kids will want to ride the Funicular here, which will take you to the base of the Sacre Coeur. It’s also a quick way to get down the hill from the Sacre Couer. You can also walk the stairs, but there are quite a few.

Sacre Coeur sits on top of a hill, so if you climb to the top of the dome, you get a stunning view of Paris which gives you another great photo opportunity. But, even if you don’t go to the top of the dome, the views from the outside of Sacre Couer are stunning and well worth taking in for a few moments.

Monmarte

While you are in Monmarte, you can walk around the cobblestone streets, watch the artists or participate in a portrait session, enjoy one of the outdoor bistros, or do a bit of shopping. There is also a little white train kids will love. And, at the base of Monmarte, you may find one of Paris’s famed carousels, which little ones love to enjoy.

Moulin Rouge is a famous landmark on the street below Monmarte. You can snap a photo outside if you like. And there are souvenir shops along the side streets on the way to and from Monmarte.

You’ll love Montmartre, and even the children will be enchanted with the little village and atmosphere as you walk around it. It’s one of the must-see areas on your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Take A Boat Ride on the River Seine

In the afternoon or early evening, I definitely recommend a bateau ride on the River Seine. It’s a great way to take a break, but you will also see Paris from a different view. It’s a must-do during your Paris in 3 days itinerary.

You can do a public tour narrated by Parisiennes. But you can also do a private family boat ride on the River Seine, which is quite lovely!

See the Eiffel Tower Lit Up

For the evening, you won’t want to miss seeing the Eiffel Tower lit up at night. It makes a stunning photo opportunity and makes a great end to your tour of Paris for that day. If you haven’t enjoyed a bateau ride on the Seine earlier in the day, doing so in the evening is a great trip. Watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the night from the river is simply spectacular.

Dinner at Flams

For a different meal that kids will love, Flams is a great spot for dinner. It is a franchise with 14 locations that serve Flammencuche, a thin pizza common in the Alsacian part of France.

Flams serves traditional “Tarte Flambee” made with thin crispy bread dough, topped with fromage blanc (similar to cottage cheese,) heavy cream, small pieces of bacon, and onions, and cooked in a wood-fired oven. It’s delicious, in my opinion, and kids love it. Flams serves other variations as well, including dessert variations, so there is sure to be one for every taste. It’s a great way to try another traditional-style French dish while visiting Paris.

3 Days In Paris With Kids Map

Additional things to do for Paris Itinerary 4 Days or 5 Days

There are many other great sites to see if you can extend your Paris trip.

• Disneyland Paris – You can reach Disneyland Paris by train. It is possible to visit Disneyland Paris as a day trip, but I recommend spending two-three days at Disneyland Paris if you have time.
• Visit the Louvre* – Museum tickets are free for children under 18 years old – you can buy tickets online in advance. You can spend a few hours or even all day viewing art or even take a guided tour of the Louvre. See below for my thoughts on the Louvre.
• Take a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour – a neat way to get around Paris and see some amazing attractions.
• Visit the Palace of Versailles on a day trip (you can take a guided tour and even visit the home of Marie Antoinette!) Note this is at least half a day if not a full day to explore.
• Take a day trip to London with kids.
• Atelier des Lumières – an interactive art show
• Musee d’Orsay – The Musee d’Orsay hours are 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM Tuesday through Sunday, except on Thursday when it stays open until 9:45 PM.
• Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie – This museum thrills adults and children alike, and kids can play in the foundations, build a house, and more.
• Visit île Saint Louis and enjoy a quieter Parisienne shopping and dining experience.
• Take a City Free Tour walking tour of one of the different neighborhoods.
• Enjoy a picnic in Parc de la Turlure near Sacre Couer.
• Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac – The museum hours are 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.
• Place de la Concorde – If you’ve seen The Devil Wears Prada with Meryl Streep, Place de la Concorde is in the final scene.
• Musée de l’Orangerie – The museum hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Wednesday through Monday
• Grévin Paris – Museum hours vary
• Get your portrait done at the Place du Tertre
• Visit the Paris Catacombs
• Seine River cruise – I recommend an hour Seine River cruise if you have time, as it’s a neat, affordable way to see the city when you have 3 days in Paris.
• Venus de Milo and Mona Lisa at the Louvre
• Tour the Paris Opera House
• Passage de Retz, another modern art museum people often miss
• Make your own perfume at a perfume workshop at Fragonard
• Take a cooking class in Paris
• Chocolate Tour
• Tour the soccer stadium or watch a game for Paris St. Germain (the city team)

Where to Eat with Kids in Paris

Paris has plenty of great bistros, creperies, and brasseries to eat in, so make sure you eat at some of the places you can’t anywhere else in the world. It’s a great way to experience Paris like a local as you walk around the city.

Common French foods you’ll find are Croque Monsieurs, croissants, crepes salads, baguette sandwiches, pizzas, and more. You can find French recipes if you want to get a taste of France at home in my post on kid-friendly recipes from around the world.

Angelina Paris is another place you don’t want to miss. You can have tea or their famous hot chocolate here and buy delicious chocolates.

Paul is another great quick-service place to get delicious baked goods like pizzas, baguettes, croissants, and coffee, and they have bakeries all over the world.

If you like your morning coffee, you’ll definitely want to add Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole, one of the cutest coffee shops in the city, to your 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Brasseries are common spots to grab a Croque Monsieurs, salad, Coq Au Vin, or lighter fare.

Where to Stay in Paris with Kids

There are plenty of unique places to stay during your trip to Paris. If you want to enjoy a more boutique experience, there are a few boutique hotels in Paris that will add to the “joie de vivre.”

You can also rent an Airbnb or VRBO or stay in a quaint hotel in the heart of Paris. Staying at an Airbnb or VRBO is often a more affordable option which is less expensive than staying in a hotel, and grocery stores are plentiful (though many are closed on Sundays and bank holidays.)

If you want to be closer to Disneyland Paris, you can stay in an Airbnb outside the city or at one of the hotels there. But given that it is just a 45-minute train ride from Paris city center to Marne-la-Vallée train station, I would stay in the city or spend a few days there at one of the Disney hotels.

It’s easy to find a hotel where you can go on a short walk to many restaurants and attractions. There are several distinct neighborhoods or arrondissem*nts in Paris, and some of the best ones to stay in with a family include:

• 1st arrondissem*nt (In the heart of Paris and close to the Louvre)
• 3rd arrondissem*nt (Rue du Temple, close to Republique in the 11th, shops and restaurants)
• 4th arrondissem*nt (Le Marais and where Hotel de Ville – the city hall – is located)
• 5th and 6th arrondissem*nts (The Latin Quarter on the left bank of the Seine and Saint Germain)
• 7th arrondissem*nt (Close to the Eiffel Tower)
• 8th arrondissem*nt (Close to the Opera and galleries)
• 15th arrondissem*nt (With stunning views of the Seine River and Eiffel Tower)
• 16th arrondissem*nt (A 20-minute walk from the Musée du Quai Branly)
• 17th arrondissem*nt (Near the Arc de Triumph)
• 18th arrondissem*nt (Close to the Sacre Couer)

A few of the best family hotels in Paris include:

• Frasier Suites Le Claridge Champs Elysees (8th arrondissemont)
• Marriott Paris Champs Elysees (8th arrondissemont)
• Four Seasons George V (8th arrondissemont)
• Mandarin Oriental (1st arrondissem*nt)
• Westin Vendome (1st arrondissemont)
• Hotel Louvre Opera (1st arrondissem*nt)
• Novotel Centre Tour Eiffel (15th arrondissmont)
• Best Westin Aramis St. Germain (6th arrondissemont)
• Crowne Plaza Republique (11th arrondissemont very close to the 3rd and 4th arrondissemont)

Getting to Paris

Fly into Charles de Gaulle International Airport. If you are flying from the United States, typically, this is an overnight flight, and you will have to pass through customs before getting your bags. Expect a long wait, as often many international flights arrive at the same time from all over the world. In the summer, this can be a 1-2 hour wait.

Once you pass through customs and collect your luggage, you can either take a taxi (about 45 minutes ride into the city) or the RER, which will bring you right to the Gare du Nord train station in Central Paris. From here you can take a taxi or a ride share to your hotel.

Tips for Traveling to Paris with Kids for the First Time

Here are some helpful tips for a fun family Paris vacation.

1. Get a Paris Pass or an added Museum Pass – If you plan on visiting a lot of museums and iconic sites, you can save money with this Go City Paris Pass or the Museum Pass. If your heart is set on seeing Venus de Milo in the Louvre or the incredible Musée d’Orsay art museum, then you can get the Museum Pass add-on (but this is only for a 4 or 6 days in Paris itinerary.) But if you don’t need the Museum Pass, the regular Paris Pass will get you entrance to many of the main attractions (including the Big Bus tour!)
2. Save money on public transportation with the Paris Visite pass, which is designed for tourists. It allows for unlimited travel on public transportation, including the metro, tram, bus, RER, and SNCF, and is valid for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days. You can choose from a pass that permits travel in zones 1 to 3 (Paris only) or a pass that allows for travel in the Paris region zones 1 to 5, including Disneyland Paris and Chateau de Versailles.
3. Manners are important – Manners are everything in Paris, so be sure to learn some French phrases before your trip. Dine in a French restaurant or try some of the food before you go.
4. Greet everyone – It’s also important to greet people when you’re going in and out of stores, so be sure to say thank you, hello, and goodbye.
5. The People in France aren’t rude – This is a huge misconception. As someone who has lived in Paris, I can say neither French people nor Parisienne people are rude. It’s a big city that’s always busy, and I think of it as more city people who are more in the hustle and bustle of daily life than it is cultural. Remember, manners are important in France, and the French always appreciate it when you try to speak a bit in French (even a Bonjour or Merci.) But if you aren’t polite, people won’t treat you respectfully.
6. Dinner starts late and is long – Dinner in France starts late, and it is common for restaurants to close during the day and open at 7:00 PM for supper. Since they are long, make sure to bring something for the kids to do, like an electronic or a sketchbook.
7. You have to ask for the bill in restaurants – Dining in France is not like in the States. Servers will not bring you the check until you ask for it. When you’re ready, flag a waiter and say, “L’addicion, si Vous plait.” Also, tipping is not like in the United States. Typically, you leave a couple of Euros for great service.
8. Safety First: Paris is very busy with cars and watch your belongings -You probably won’t want to rent a car here, so you can take the Paris metro or train just about everywhere you need to go. The metro line accessible via the iconic metro stations runs all over the city and is pretty safe for traveling with your family as there is less major crime in central Paris. That said, there are a lot of cars, so be very careful walking, crossing streets, etc. Also, you are in a major European capital, so be mindful of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and be extra vigilant, especially in tourist areas. PRO TIP: Do not, I repeat, DO NOT, keep important items like cell phones, wallets, and passports in a backpack. This is ripe for pickpocketing! Wear your passport in a secure passport holder under your clothes, and have a bag that sits in front of you with secure straps that can’t be cut. If you see a commotion, ignore it – sometimes, this is a diversion to pickpocket you. If you are in crowds or someone bumps into you, hold on to your cell phone, purse, and wallet. Europe in the summer is ripe for pickpockets of unsuspecting tourists, so take extra steps to not be one of their targets.
9. Paris is busy during the summer – Summer is one of the busiest times to visit the city. Just remember, not every place you stay or visit will have air conditioning. You can also expect major attractions, like the Louvre or Eiffel Tower, to have long lines and be very crowded.
10. Bathrooms are usually downstairs in restaurants -You’ll find most restaurants are downstairs in many places you eat, and many don’t have a changing table. If you are traveling with a three-year-old or younger child, be prepared.
11. Expect a security line at some locations, particularly museums.
12. Shops are often closed on Sundays.

A Note About Museums and The Paris Pass

Louvre

You definitely want to tour the Louvre if you can on your trip to Paris. However, I would do this only on a 4 day in Paris itinerary or 5 days in Paris itinerary. It can be a half-day experience or longer. So, I wouldn’t spend one of the three days in Paris there when there is so much to see in the city.

That said, the Louvre is one of the most well-known museums in the world, with famous art pieces like the Mona Lisa and The Raft of Medusa. One thing to note, however, is if you visit Paris in the summer, the Louvre museum will be extremely crowded (expect crowds around the Mona Lisa and difficulty seeing it.)

Not many people can say they’ve seen the works that the Louvre houses, so it is an experience for people of all ages if you have time to see it. After hearing about the Mona Lisa for years, I can say seeing it in person is exhilarating.

But to set your expectations – there are often lines –long, long lines – to get into the Louvre. Beware that you will need to reserve a time slot to visit the Louvre whether you paid for a pass or you have a free one.

Paris Pass vs Paris Museum Pass

To save money on many attractions, I recommend the Paris Pass through Go City. The 2 and 3-day passes will give you savings on entrance fees for many of the top attractions. If you purchase the 4 or 6-day pass, you also get the Paris Museum Pass, which also includes entry to the Palace of Versailles and many more museums. Both will help you save money.

On top of entrance fees, the Paris Pass has numerous activities, food tastings, walking tours, etc. to choose from to add some unique activities during your tour. Things like perfume making, chocolate tours, French food, and wine tastings, etc. are included in the Paris Pass!

If this is your first visit to the city, it may be a good way to save money as the pass costs less than your entrance fee to several museums. Just note that while the Paris Museum Pass lets you skip the line, you still have to pass through a security line at many of these places, and the lines can be long.

Some of the attractions and museums the Paris Pass or the Paris Museum Pass includes are:

• Some art museums, like the Louvre Museum
• Musée d’Orsay – one of the best modern art museums
• Arc de Triomphe
• Sainte-Chapelle – where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned and home to beautiful walls of 13th-century stained glass
• Panthéon
• Centre Pompidou
• Museum of Music
• Picasso Art Museum
• Palace of Versailles
• Château de Fontainebleau
• Château de Maisons-Laffitte
• National Museum of Port-Royal des Champs
• Rodin Museum

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth going to Paris for 3 days? Is Paris worth visiting with kids?

In my opinion, absolutely, it is worth going to Paris for 3 days. You can see a lot, especially if you follow my perfect 3 days in Paris itinerary! Personally, I wouldn’t spend 3 days in museums. I would save that for when you have a longer amount of time unless seeing museums are your thing. But our family loves immersive and experiential travel, which is how I designed my itinerary. We like to see some important sites, but we also like to immerse ourselves in the experiences, foods, markets, and see as much as we can in the city. You can certainly get a great trip and experience Paris in 3 days.

Paris is definitely worth visiting with kids! There are many families who live in Paris, so there are many kid-friendly things to do and see. Plus, it’s a great way for kids to learn about another country and culture, experience French food, hear the French language, and see things they learn about in school, like the French Revolution and French art.

What’s the best way to spend 3 days in Paris? What to do in Paris in 3 days 2023?

This itinerary gives you my best recommendations of how to maximize your time in Paris in 3 days. It takes you to a variety of different neighborhoods and key sites, as well as offers you a variety of French foods to discover. You could also add a cooking class, a market tour, a perfume-making experience, a chocolate tour, or a patisserie class if you really want to immerse yourself in the culture. You could also spend time doing as the Parisienne’s do and rent a Velo bike to ride around the city, grab some cheese and a baguette, and picnic in one of the parks!

How many days are sufficient/recommended for Paris? Are 3 days enough in Paris? How many days is enough for Paris with kids?

If you are visiting Paris with kids over a long weekend or as part of a larger European trip, or even planning to go to Provence with kids, 3 days in Paris will certainly be enough. However, if it’s your sole destination, I would spend 5 to 7 days fully exploring the city and all that it has to offer.

When should I take my child to Paris?

Summer is the easiest time to visit Paris with kids, but it is also hot and the most busy. If you can take one of the school breaks, like Thanksgiving or Spring Break, you can enjoy much of what Paris has to offer in 3 days. The winter is cold in Paris, so you need to plan accordingly. However, we have certainly visited then as a way to avoid crowds. Spring is lovely in Paris, so while it will be busy, it won’t be as busy as the summer.

Which area of Paris is best for children?

I recommend the areas of the Latin Quarter, Montmartre, Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and La Marais, as you will be near many of the attractions. Our family likes to stay at the Crowne Plaza in Republique and walk Rue du Temple to get to La Marais. We are comfortable in this neighborhood, but if you want to be in a more tourist area of the city, one of the areas above would be good.

How much does it cost for 3 days in Paris?

This is tough to answer because it entirely depends on where you stay, what you do, and where you eat. You could certainly rent an Airbnb or VRBO, shop at a local grocery store to dine in your room, and purchase a Paris Pass to maximize your budget. You could also go all out and stay in a higher-end hotel, dine out for every meal, book expensive tours, eat at Michelin-star restaurants, and spend a lot. Paris is an expensive city, and where you stay and what you do will dictate how much it costs for 3 days in Paris. But, for an average family, in a mid-range hotel, with mid-range dining, and money-saving passes, I would say you can expect around $250-$500 per person per day.

Final Thoughts on Your Family Trip to France with Kids

If this is your first time in Paris with kids, this Paris itinerary will be quite helpful as there is so much to do. Plus, the culture is a bit different than America, so these tips will help you navigate the city like a pro.

My family loves going to France because there is always something new to do because it’s impossible to do everything in one trip.

Every location is a photo opportunity because the city is beautiful, with centuries-old buildings everywhere. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most romantic cities in the world.

There are things you don’t want to miss like the Eiffel Tower lit up at night or visits to museums like the Louvre.

Discover Paris, France, because it’s a location unlike any other, so I know your family will have an amazing time.

Like This Post? You may also be interested in these blog posts related to your Paris vacation:

The Best Castle Stay in France: Château de la Barben Hotel Review

8 Things to do in Provence with Kids

Hotel Review: La Nesquière, Family-Friendly Bed and Breakfast, Provence

London With Kids 2023: An EPIC Five Days In London Itinerary Your Kids Will LOVE 101+

Where To Stay in London With Kids (for a Family Holiday)

25+ Best Restaurants in London for Kids

Kid-Friendly Recipes From Around The World

15 Travel and Multicultural Education Activities For Students At Home Play Outside!

15 Delightful Kids Games From Around The World

Why Use a Travel Agent?

Family Travel On A Budget 2023: The Very Best Tips To Make Travel Affordable

13 Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families

Top 12 Best Resorts in Oahu for Families

10 Reasons to Visit Strasbourg Christmas Markets in Strasbourg, France

40+ Travel Gifts for Teens and Tweens They’ll Absolutely Love