Is Paris a Kid-Friendly City?

To be perfectly honest, I've gotten tired of this notion that Paris is not a kid-friendly city. It most certainly is, and this is coming from a mother of three raising her kids, all under 10 years old, here. Is Paris the best city for kids? No, of course not. But at the same time, the French capital has as much to offer the little ones as it does for couples, professionals, senior citizens, and more. Paris is generally safe; its museums are educational, the famous parks are perfect for outdoor play, and there are many great schools in the city. Take it from me, you and your kids will have a tremendous time here!

It's a Relatively Safe City

Don't just believe anyone who says that Paris is a dangerous city. I admit that its crime rates tend to be high, but I'll be damned if I'll let people paint my city as this crime-ridden dystopia that's not worth visiting. Generally speaking, most of the city is safe. Or rather, the most popular areas are. From the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées, you can easily ensure that you and your kids will remain safe, especially if you take the necessary precautions. Just keep your eyes on them and you're good to go!

It's a Walkable City

If there's one thing I've learned about raising little kids, it's that you're better off keeping them on their feet the moment they learn how to walk. Fortunately, Paris is famously a walkable city. Its cafe-lined sidewalks, cobbled streets, big city parks, and more are perfect for a family stroll, even more so when it's lovely outside. Walking around Paris is a great way to get to the city, too, and you can show them the iconic monuments that the rest of the world would kill to see in person. And of course, walking is a great exercise, perhaps even making your kids be more active.

It's a Very Stimulating City

I can't tell you how much Paris stimulates my kids. They practically love the city as much as I do, always anticipating to see its most famous monuments. We live in the 7th arrondissement, so the Eiffel Tower is only a stone's throw away. Though my kids have seen it countless times, they always brighten up when they see it nearby. And I'm sure the city will be just as exciting for your little ones. Paris will stimulate all of their senses, from the smell of freshly baked pastries to the music of jazz musicians performing out on the street.

There are Many Kid-Friendly Attractions

I don't know why people forget that Paris has several kid-friendly attractions. I mean, Disneyland Paris is right there! It may not be in the city itself, but it's close by and is perfect for a day trip with the entire family. I'm sure it will be the highlight of your Paris trip for them! And if you don't want to contend with the iconic theme park's crowds, there's always Parc Astérix. This lesser-known but equally exciting amusement park has, in my opinion, more thrilling rides than Disneyland Paris. This is where you'll want to take your older kids for fun.

Lots of Educational Landmarks

Am I the only parent who remembers that Paris is one big history textbook? Your kids will learn just as many things going to the famous museums as they would in the classroom. I've even made it a point for the entire family to go to at least one museum per month. It's a great way to spend time with the kids, but it's also perfect for letting them learn new things firsthand. And I suggest all you other parents do the same when you go to Paris with your kids. Don't miss this opportunity to teach them something about the world, and if it's coming from you, they'll remember it for the rest of their lives!

Sunny Parks Provide Safe Spaces

Take your kids out to either the most famous or the most underrated parks in Paris. I do it every weekend because I want my babies to get as much sun as they can, and I'm thankful that Paris gets a lot of it from spring to early autumn. My go-to park is Champ de Mars since it's close by, but I do take them to other parks when that one gets too crowded with tourists. My favorite alternative is Jardin du Ranelagh, a lesser-known spot on Avenue Prudhon. It's not too far from our place, and it rarely gets as rowdy as the city's most famous parks.

Paris boasts Prestigious Schools

One of the reasons why I'm confident in my choice to raise my kids in Paris is the city's prestigious schools. I want my children to get the best education possible, and the French capital guarantees that. When I say that Paris has some of the best schools in the world, I'm not kidding! I'm already eyeing the American School of Paris (since we're also American), the International School Honoré-De-Balzac, and the Marymount International School, among many others. I have no doubt my kids will have what it takes to get enrolled in any or all of these!

Raise Kids in The Suburbs

Look, I get it! Paris is such a hectic city that you can't possibly raise your kids here, right? I once had that sentiment too, and before we ended up in our current place, I seriously considered moving to another town or even back to the US instead. But for those who don't know, there are also the suburbs of Paris. They're outer districts that are just as urban but also considerably quieter compared to the city proper. Many of these suburbs also have the best schools in Paris, the most beautiful parks, bustling business districts, and more.



Paris is undoubtedly a lot more kid-friendly than most people give it credit for. The city offers several family-oriented attractions, educational museums, and various other hotspots perfect for the little ones.