Paris is one of the most enchanting cities in the world, but let’s be real—getting around Paris with kids in tow can be a challenge. The city’s historic charm comes with narrow sidewalks, stair-heavy metro stations, and plenty of cobblestone streets that don’t exactly scream “stroller-friendly.” But don’t worry! With a little planning and a few smart choices, getting around Paris with kids can be smooth and stress-free. Here’s how to do it like a pro.
Paris Public Transportation: Tips for Getting Around Paris with Kids
Paris has a fantastic public transport system, but it’s not always family-friendly. The metro is the fastest way to get around, but accessibility is limited. Buses, on the other hand, are a game-changer for parents.
How to Use the Paris Metro for Getting Around Paris with Kids
The Paris Metro makes it easy to reach many of the best family-friendly attractions across the city, from world-famous museums to hidden playgrounds. With frequent service and stops all across the city, it’s one of the fastest and most affordable ways to explore Paris with kids.
However, while the Paris Métro is famous for its efficiency, it’s not fully accessible. Most stations lack elevators or escalators, which can make traveling with a stroller challenging. Many Parisian parents recommend using a lightweight, compact stroller that’s easy to fold and maneuver when navigating stairs.
That said, there’s one big exception: Metro Line 14. This is the only fully accessible metro line, with elevators and wide gates at all stations. Some of the key stops include:
- Gare de Lyon (major train station)
- Châtelet (central hub for shopping & sightseeing)
- Saint-Lazare (perfect for reaching the Opera district)
If you can, plan your route around this line to make things easier!
👉 Planning your trip? Here’s the official Paris Metro timetable and map to make navigating easier.
Taking Buses in Paris with Kids
Paris buses are far more stroller-friendly than the metro. Most buses have designated stroller areas, and you don’t need to fold them up unless the bus is full.
How to Pay for the Bus: You can either use a Navigo card (a contactless travel pass) or buy a ticket directly from the driver (note: cash only and slightly more expensive). If you’re using a single-use metro ticket, it won’t work on the bus—so plan accordingly!
Paris Metro Family Pass & Ticket
Navigating the Paris Metro with kids can be much easier — and cheaper — when you choose the right tickets. Whether you’re staying for a few days or a full week, there are a few options designed to make getting around Paris simple for families.
Single Tickets: T+ Metro Tickets
The most basic option is the T+ metro ticket, valid for one journey on the Metro, buses, trams, or RER trains within central Paris (zones 1–2). While convenient, buying individual tickets adds up quickly for families, especially with multiple daily trips.
Tip: If you’re only planning a few rides per day, buying a carnet (bundle of 10 T+ tickets) can save you a few euros compared to single purchases.
Paris Metro Family Pass Options
If you’re planning to explore Paris more extensively, it’s worth considering a pass instead of buying separate tickets.
1. Navigo Easy Card
For short stays, the Navigo Easy Pass is a rechargeable card where you can load T+ tickets or day passes. It’s perfect if you prefer flexibility without committing to a tourist pass.
- Pros: Easy to use, reloadable, small savings over single tickets.
- Cons: Not valid for airport trips (RER B) or Disneyland Paris (Zone 5).
You can pick up a Navigo Easy card at most Metro stations for a small fee.
2. Paris Visite Pass
The Paris Visite Pass is a tourist transport pass offering unlimited travel for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days on the Metro, buses, trams, and RER trains. It’s available for two zone options:
- Zones 1–3 (central Paris)
- Zones 1–5 (includes airports and Disneyland Paris)
This pass can be a great deal if you’re planning to visit places outside central Paris like Versailles, Disneyland Paris, or if you’re landing at CDG Airport.
Family Bonus:
Children aged 4–11 benefit from a 50% discount on the Paris Visite Pass!
Which Paris Metro Family Ticket Is Best?
Here’s a quick guide:
| Stay Length | Best Ticket Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 days | T+ tickets or Navigo Easy | If only visiting central areas |
| 3–5 days | Paris Visite Pass (Zones 1–3) | Unlimited rides, easier with kids |
| Visiting Disney/airports | Paris Visite Pass (Zones 1–5) | Covers RER B to CDG + Disneyland |
If you’re doing a lot of sightseeing and want to avoid standing in line at ticket machines every day (a nightmare with strollers or tired kids!), the Paris Visite Pass is usually the best option.
Pro Tip: Always validate your ticket or pass at the entrance machines! Fines for unvalidated tickets can be steep — and yes, even tourists get checked.
Paris Public Transport Alternative & Fun Ways to Get Around
Beyond the metro and buses, there are other fun and unique ways to explore Paris with kids:
- Batobus: A hop-on, hop-off boat along the Seine that lets you see the city from the water. No stairs, no crowds, just a smooth ride with fantastic views!
- Bateaux Mouches: A classic sightseeing cruise—kids love it, and it gives everyone a chance to relax.
- Le Petit Train de Montmartre: A tiny tourist train that winds through the hilly Montmartre district—perfect for little legs that need a break!
Getting to and from Paris Airports with Kids
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the main airport for international arrivals, and getting to and from the city can be tricky with little ones. Here are your best options:
- RER B Train: The cheapest way to get to central Paris (about 10€ per person), but not the easiest with a stroller—lots of stairs and sometimes no elevators.
- Le Bus Direct (Roissy Bus): A comfortable coach with space for luggage and strollers. Slightly more expensive but stress-free.
- Taxi: By far the easiest option if you’re traveling with kids. Paris taxis have a flat rate (€55 to the Right Bank, €62 to the Left Bank). Make sure to take an official taxi from the airport taxi stand.
Paris Public Transport: Practical Tips for Parents
- ✔ Use a lightweight stroller. Parisians swear by YOYO strollers, which fold up small and are easy to carry.
- ✔ Avoid rush hour. The metro and buses get extremely packed from 8–10 AM and 5–7 PM.
- ✔ Plan routes carefully. Some metro stations have lifts, but most don’t—so check ahead.
- ✔ Bus etiquette. Always enter through the front door, and if the stroller area is full, you may need to fold yours up.
Final Thoughts
Paris is magical, even with kids! With a little extra planning, you can avoid the stress and focus on enjoying the adventure. Whether you’re cruising the Seine, hopping on a bus, or navigating the metro like a pro, you’ll find that getting around Paris with little ones is all part of the experience.
Happy travels!