Looking for the ultimate 1 day in Paris itinerary that’s perfect for families? Paris may not seem like the most kid-friendly destination at first glance, but there’s plenty for families to discover. From hidden playgrounds and classic carousels to scenic walks and charming cafés, the city offers something for every age. This itinerary covers the must-see highlights in a way that’s fun and manageable for families—whether you’re chasing toddlers through gardens, snapping selfies with teens, or ensuring a stress-free day for grandparents.
Let’s make the most of your time in Paris! ✨
Morning in Your 1 Day in Paris Itinerary: Eiffel Tower & Tuileries Gardens
Kick-off Your Paris Family Itinerary at the Eiffel Tower
Why it’s perfect for your 1 day in Paris itinerary: Nothing says “We’re in Paris!” quite like a morning at the Eiffel Tower. Arrive early to beat the crowds and, if your family is feeling adventurous, take the stairs up for a real sense of achievement!
🌿 Hidden Gem: Champs de Mars Playground – Just behind the Eiffel Tower, this is the perfect spot to let little ones run free while parents sip coffee from a nearby café.
📸 Selfie Spot for Teens: Rue de l’Université – The dreamiest backdrop for a picture-perfect Eiffel Tower shot.
☕ Breakfast Recommendation: Pick up fresh pastries and coffee from a local boulangerie (like Boulangerie Les Gourmandises d’Eiffel) and enjoy a simple picnic at the Champs de Mars gardens—the perfect start to your 1 day in Paris itinerary.
Tuileries Gardens: A Playground in the Heart of Paris
Take a leisurely stroll toward the Tuileries Gardens, where kids can enjoy the carousel and trampolines, while parents soak in the Parisian atmosphere.
🎠 Best for Young Kids: The Tuileries Carousel and a little café break at Terrasse de Pomone.
🚶 Easy for Multi-Generational Families: Plenty of benches, smooth paths for strollers, and lots of shaded areas for a mid-morning pause.
Afternoon Adventures in Your Paris Family Itinerary: Culture, Cruises & Fun
Pick Your Family’s Perfect Midday Activity:
After a magical morning exploring the Eiffel Tower and Tuileries Gardens, continue your Paris family itinerary with the perfect afternoon adventure. Whether your family loves art, sightseeing, or just relaxing by the river, Paris has something for everyone.
🏛️ For Culture-Loving Families: Visit Musée de l’Orangerie, home to Monet’s breathtaking Water Lilies (a short and sweet art stop—perfect for young attention spans!).
🌊 For Relaxed Sightseeing: Take a Seine River Cruise—an effortless way to see the city while giving little legs a break.
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation: Overlooking the Louvre’s courtyard, Café Marly is a fantastic spot for a relaxed meal with a view—perfect to recharge before your afternoon adventures in your 1 day in Paris itinerary.
Hidden Gems Near Notre Dame: Optional Stop Before Montmartre
If you have extra time before continuing your 1 day in Paris itinerary, consider a short cultural stop near Notre Dame. This quick detour includes hidden gems, peaceful playgrounds, and iconic bookshops that offer a relaxing break for families. ⏭️ If not, skip ahead to the Evening in Montmartre section and enjoy a sweet treat and sunset views.
To get to Notre Dame, it’s either a 25-minute walk along the Seine from Café Marly or a quick hop on the RER/Metro (check our transportation guide for kid-friendly options). While the cathedral is still under reconstruction, its stunning façade and intricate details make it worth a photo stop—if time allows and the line isn’t too long.
🪜 Hidden Gem for Young Kids: Behind Notre Dame, Square Jean XXIII offers a small playground and a peaceful green space for little ones to run around.
📚 Optional Stop for Book Lovers: Shakespeare & Company is right across the river—a legendary English-language bookstore, It’s one of the top things to see in Paris for literary fans, though there’s often a long line and strollers can make it tricky if it’s crowded.
👉 Alternative for families with older kids: If you’d rather skip the queue, head to the charming Abbey Bookshop nearby on Rue de la Parcheminerie—a cozy, lesser-known spot with floor-to-ceiling books and old-world charm (just note it’s quite tight inside, so not ideal with strollers).
Evening Magic in Montmartre: A Perfect End to Your 1 Day in Paris Itinerary
Wrap up your unforgettable 1 day in Paris itinerary by riding the Montmartre funicular (no stairs needed!) and exploring this magical hilltop neighborhood filled with street artists, cobbled lanes, and sunset views
- 📸 Selfie Spot: Catch sunset from the Sacré-Cœur steps—the view is unforgettable.
- 🎨 Fun for Kids: Stop by Place du Tertre, where local artists sketch quick portraits—an amazing keepsake.
- 🍰 Afternoon Treat: Enjoy a Goûter (French Afternoon Snack)
- In France, kids (and adults!) enjoy a sweet treat around 4 PM called le goûter. Grab a warm street-side crêpe or visit one of Montmartre’s family-friendly bakeries:
- Pain Pain – Chouquettes, tarte au citron, and pastries kids love.
- Maison Arnaud Delmontel – Award-winning brioche, macarons, and more.
- La Bossue – Cozy cakes and rich hot chocolate (best earlier before it fills up).
✨ Wrap-Up: Wander Montmartre’s Cobblestone Streets
As the city lights twinkle on, wander Montmartre’s magical lanes. End the night with a cozy family dinner at Le Relais Gascon, famous for its crispy potato salads and hearty French classics—a real crowd-pleaser!
End Your 1 Day in Paris Itinerary with a Magical Family Moment
As the sun sets over Montmartre, slow down and savor the final moments of your 1 day in Paris itinerary. Let the kids run around Square Louise Michel, take in the glowing skyline from the Sacré-Cœur steps, or snap a final family selfie with the twinkling Eiffel Tower in the distance—one of the absolute must-see places in Paris for families.
This is Paris at its most magical—a moment to remember before heading back with full hearts, tired feet, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Want a More Tailored Experience? Check Out These Age-Specific Itineraries!
👶 Paris with Babies & Toddlers: Stroller-Friendly & Nap-Friendly Adventures
Tips for stress-free exploring with little ones, including where to find changing stations, baby-friendly cafés, and the best playground stops.
🧸 Best Things to do in Paris with Tweens: Fun, Hands-On & Interactive
Perfect for curious kids who love scavenger hunts, street art, and sweet treats.
📸 Fun Things to do in Paris with a Teenager: Trendy Cafés & Instagram-Worthy Moments
A mix of must-see attractions, cool shopping spots, and the best photo ops in the city.