People often say the capital is not at all, not at all, kid-friendly. Too many crowds, too much hustle... And yet the Île-de-France region is a gold mine for those who know the kid-friendly spots, the family cafés, places to burn off steam or to enjoy unusual experiences.
This season, families can enjoy Parisian museums with their workshops and guided tours, family-friendly third spaces, and kid-friendly cafés, as well as restaurants that host activities for children. The back-to-school events also offer a rich lineup of activities for both little ones and grown-ups.
All that’s left is for you to choose how to enjoy September as a family in the capital!
WARNING: This guide is updated as new discoveries are made
Visiting the National Museum of Natural History with the family: all you need to know about the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution
Can you visit the National Museum of Natural History with a stroller? What should you see with kids, and do you need a separate ticket for the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution, the Ménagerie, or the Galerie de Paléontologie? At the Jardin des Plantes, the Museum brings together several distinct sites to explore. For a first family outing, the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution is a great entry point. Stroller access, elevators, tickets, duration, and which visits to combine: here’s what to plan for both grown-ups and kids. [Read more]
Underline, the living space with a free exhibition spanning 2,000 m2 beneath the Petite Ceinture, is being unveiled.
Underline opens its eleven railway vaults to the public on Friday, September 18, 2026, in the 15th arrondissement of Paris. This 2,000-square-metre creative workshop puts materiality and crafts in the spotlight, with a free exhibition featuring 40 artists, a shop, workshops, and a cafe-bar. [Read more]
Visiting the Gardens of the Palace of Versailles: what you need to know for a family-friendly visit
Can you visit the Versailles gardens with a stroller? How far will you need to walk with the kids, are the gardens free, and do you have to push all the way to the Grand Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet? After touring the Chateau, the estate still offers several more kilometers of family-friendly strolls. Strollers, a mini-train, the Grandes Eaux, restrooms, breaks and distances: here’s what you need to know before you set off to explore Versailles with kids and adults alike. [Read more]
Visiting the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre: everything you need to know to discover it with your family
Can you visit the Sacré-Cœur with a stroller? How to avoid the stairs to reach the basilica, and can you climb the dome with small children? A family outing to Montmartre requires a few precautions, especially with a baby. Funicular, stroller, 280 steps to the dome, no elevator, and free access to the basilica: here’s what you need to know before you go. [Read more]
Good deals for ages 13-25: Studio 13/16 opens its doors at La Gaîté Lyrique.
Iconic of the Centre Pompidou, Studio 13/16, the teens' HQ, opens a second venue to gather and create, at La Gaîté Lyrique. [Read more]
Pompidou House: Free exhibitions and events to experience the museum during renovations
The Centre Pompidou is reinventing itself for 2030, but at Beaubourg, art continues to thrive! The Pompidou House welcomes you free of charge to the Piazza, offering a diverse lineup of events that blend behind-the-scenes insights, exhibitions, discussions, and workshops. It’s a chance to explore the museum’s history, its creative process, and upcoming projects from a fresh perspective. [Read more]
Unique Paris Tour by Open-Top Bus with Big Bus – SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE
Sponsored - Panoramic views of Paris, flexibility, multilingual audio guides—discover an unusual tour of Paris on a double-decker bus with Big Bus, with a 15% discount on certain dates. [Read more]
Pré Catelan Garden and the Shakespeare Garden, the Bois de Boulogne's secret gardens
If someone mentions the Bois de Boulogne and its lakes, you’ll probably know them. Yet just a few steps away, there’s another garden. A garden in the heart of the woods, little-known but far calmer: the Jardin du Pré Catelan, a green space to discover in the 16th arrondissement. [Read more]
Square Séverine, the 20th arrondissement’s green lung and a must-visit space at Porte de Bagnolet.
Porte de Bagnolet district, in the 20th arrondissement, Square Séverine has become the neighborhood’s go-to park: a place to live, to play, to dream, to stroll... [Read more]
5 weekend getaways for bikepacking and trail riding within easy reach of Paris
If, at first glance, Paris might not strike you as the capital of outdoor sports, it still offers a wealth of options: dozens of station-to-station hike ideas, and also several ideas for long-distance bike trips. [Read more]
The Hidden Square of Epinettes, a quiet park in the 17th arrondissement.
Right next to the bustling Saint-Ouen Avenue, a narrow street hides a green space that's strategically placed for the neighborhood: a tiny island amid towering concrete blocks. This is the Epinettes Square, in the eponymous 17th arrondissement. [Read more]
Dynamik Parc, the multi-activity park in the Yvelines that’s going to blow you away
Installed quietly this summer at the heart of the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines Leisure Island, Dynamik Parc unveils a unique, multi-activity park dedicated to sport and recreation. Electric Drift Kart, Laser Tag, Bubble Foot, Archery Game, Big Football, VR, Hado, and other self-guided experiences are on the menu for those eager to discover. [Read more]
The Petite Ceinture expands: extending the promenade area in the 15th arrondissement
In the 15th arrondissement, a number of works have extended the pedestrian section of the Petite Ceinture in the 15th. Here’s a look at what’s changing. [Read more]
5 station-to-station hikes to explore the bucolic landscapes of the Grand Morin Valley
To go hiking, you don’t need to rack up hours on trains, in cars, or even at the airport.
Only your Navigo pass will do, provided you know the best spots, trails, forests and regional parks for hiking in Île-de-France. [Read more]
5 gardens and parks to drop by for a picnic or a rest, near the Champs-Élysées
On a trip to Paris, especially when the weather is nice, you don’t always know where to find a pleasant spot to settle in for a while—maybe to tuck into a picnic or simply take a break before continuing on. Here’s a guide to nice places to linger for a few hours around the Champs-Élysées in Paris. [Read more]
Yerevan Garden, the square on the banks of the Seine named in homage to the Armenian genocide
Along the Parisian banks of the Seine, the Erevan Garden is one of the leafy promenades featured on this charming Parisian stroll. A pleasant garden, named in memory of and in tribute to the Armenians. [Read more]
The Jardin des Champs-Elysées, a mosaic of 12 historic parks along the famed avenue
From the Champs-Élysées, people mainly know the avenue, the stage for countless milestones in the history of France and Paris. Lesser known, its gardens are worth a detour and offer a greener pause around the clock. [Read more]
The Queen's Promenade on the Cours de la Reine, a former royal promenade frequented by Marie de Médicis
Along the Parisian banks of the Seine, a tree-lined promenade invites you to unwind: and no wonder, for more than 400 years this walkway has stood the test of time. In the past, it was the royal family who enjoyed it; today, the area is open to everyone, 24/7. [Read more]
Square Léon Serpollet, the hidden green oasis in the heart of Paris's 18th arrondissement
Situated in the Clignancourt district, Square Léon Serpollet is one of those hidden gems locals know well. A green oasis tucked inside a very urban area, to be discovered on a particularly pleasant stroll. [Read more]
The Claire Motte Garden, a secret park (with a children's playground), in the 17th arrondissement
On the Porte d'Asnières side, the Claire Motte Garden largely goes unnoticed—and for a good reason: its whole purpose is to offer a tranquil green space where visitors can recharge, away from the bustle. [Read more]
Espace Rambouillet: a forested and wildlife park to reconnect with nature
Sponsored - Nestled within 250 hectares of forest, discover a unique Île-de-France site dedicated to European wildlife, featuring species still present in France today or once found here: red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, wolves… Also explore its aviary and raptor centre, home to over 200 birds with demonstrations of free-flight birds of prey. Not to be missed are the 1,500 m2 of giant tree-suspended trampolines or the Mission Forest playground. A offering sure to delight families, nature lovers, and anyone eager to reconnect with what truly matters: life in the living world. [Read more]
The Piple Regional Domain, a new forested space to stroll through in Val-de-Marne
An immense jewel box of wild greenery unveils its trails in the heart of Val-de-Marne. This vast, preserved forested estate, recognized for its exceptional biodiversity, now invites walkers and lovers of wide-open spaces to enjoy a true breath of fresh air, conveniently served by public transport. [Read more]
La Roseraie du Val-de-Marne in L’Haÿ-les-Roses, the world’s first rose garden in full bloom
Seeking the loveliest rose garden near Paris? We’re taking you to L'Haÿ-les-Roses in Val-de-Marne to discover the world’s first rose garden, founded in 1894. Part plant-collection conservatory, part Jardin Remarquable, this rose garden, open from April to September, is sure to dazzle you. [Read more]
This historic château in Essonne, now the town hall, hides a remarkable botanical park that’s free to visit.
In Lardy, the castle park—now the town hall—runs along the Juine for six hectares and features remarkable century-old trees in Essonne, freely accessible year-round. We treated ourselves to a quick outing to reveal this surprising green space and its castle. [Read more]
Parc Boussard: we visited this Art Deco garden, a designated Jardin Remarquable and free to visit in Essonne.
The Boussard Park, in Lardy (Essonne), is one of the few Art Deco gardens in Île-de-France. Registered as a historic monument and named a Remarkable Garden, this free-entry municipal park is open year-round. Tucked away in a discreet, hidden corner, it’s a real gem we were pleased to discover and are thrilled to share with you. [Read more]
Great tip: a cycle path to discover the Oise’s bucolic banks by bike.
Biking the Oise is the freegoing stroll on offer, accessible from Paris or with a Navigo pass, and suitable for all levels. What’s in store? Beautiful villages along the way and the feeling of being far, very far from Paris. [Read more]
Yvelines: discover the Bonnelles Ponds Nature Reserve and its beautiful treasures
In the Yvelines, the Bonnelles Ponds Regional Nature Reserve offers a free, year-round nature and heritage stroll around two ponds, featuring diverse wildlife and charming 18th-century factories. [Read more]
Bel Ebat Park, a charming green space with donkeys grazing, in Avon (77)
A lovely green enclave in a part of town that’s already great for a stroll. Just a ten-minute walk from Fontainebleau-Avon station, Bel Ebat Park is a charming spot to discover! [Read more]
Deuil-la-Barre's Greenway: a verdant stroll in the heart of Val-d'Oise
Nature comes to Deuil-la-Barre! This spring, the Île-de-France town unveils the third stretch of the “Coulée Verte,” its flagship project to forge a green corridor that runs through the town from north to south. A chance to enjoy a lush, leafy stroll right in the heart of Val-d’Oise. [Read more]
Where to see farm animals? Educational farms and livestock farms in and around Paris.
A day at the farm is the sure-fire outing everyone agrees on: so this weekend, this Wednesday, or during the holidays, it's the perfect chance to (re)discover the area’s farms and educational farms. [Read more]
Essonne: a château with remarkable gardens you absolutely must discover to go green
The Domaine de Courson, a château classified as a Historic Monument and a park labelled Jardin Remarquable in Courson-Monteloup, Essonne, opens its doors to visitors until November 1. Now is the time to discover its sublime green spaces and, perhaps, delve into the castle’s history through a guided tour. [Read more]
26 charming villages and strolls to discover near Paris, the treasures of Île-de-France
Get away from Paris with these 26 must-see getaways within 100 km of the capital. [Read more]
This flower-filled park in the Yvelines hides an arboretum, royal secrets, and has inspired Blake and Mortimer.
In Buc, in the Yvelines, the park of Haut-Buc Castle is freely accessible year-round. A pedagogical arboretum, Louis XIV’s secret child, an eccentric astronomer, and the backdrop for Blake and Mortimer: this estate has more than one story to tell. Here’s more about this superb place in full bloom, a must for tulip lovers. [Read more]
Les Jardins d’Éole, a tree-lined square with a children's playground, in the 18th arrondissement.
Quartier Marx Dormoy, the Jardins d’Éole is a pretty tree-lined square with a children's playground, where you can take a break in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Botanical gardens and arboretums to explore in Paris and the Île-de-France region
Looking to escape into nature and explore the botanical gardens and arboretums of Paris and its surrounding region? We share with you the must-visit spots that will immerse you in an array of diverse and stunning plant collections. From the heart of Paris to the Yvelines, passing through the Hauts-de-Seine and Seine-et-Marne, the botanical gardens and arboretums of Île-de-France offer delightful plant discoveries to enjoy year-round. [Read more]
Montfermeil Arboretum: An Unconventional Natural Retreat in Seine-Saint-Denis
In Seine-Saint-Denis, the Montfermeil municipal arboretum stretches over 11 hectares of greenery, featuring a unique botanical trail, open to visitors free of charge year-round. It's a perfect nature getaway to the east of Paris, especially during this sunny season. [Read more]
Arboretum of Vallée-aux-Loups, the stunning free park in Hauts-de-Seine renowned for its remarkable trees
In Châtenay-Malabry, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, the Vallée-aux-Loups Arboretum offers 12.5 hectares of picturesque natural scenery just a short 15-kilometer drive from Paris. Best of all, entry is completely free, making it a perfect year-round escape into nature. [Read more]
The Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard and its Remarkable Garden
The Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard, located in Essonne in the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, is a remarkably well-preserved 19th-century château classified as a historic monument. Visitors flock here to discover the grounds, and in particular the Potager, which has been awarded the Jardin Remarquable label. [Read more]
Tourism: Val-d'Oise village named one of France's most beautiful villages retains its title
Did you know that there's a town in the Paris region that's on the prestigious list of France's most beautiful villages? And the good news is that this year, it has retained this famous label. So which village is it and where exactly is it located? We've got the answers! [Read more]
The Paris Basketball show is making a big comeback.
Sponsored - Starting September 29, Paris Basketball will light up the Adidas Arena game after game against Europe’s top clubs. With family or friends, dive into this one-of-a-kind experience in the Paris region! [Read more]
Paris-Rueil by bicycle: a visit to the Japanese garden and the Napoleon and Joséphine’s château
From Paris to Rueil-Malmaison, by bike, it’s a fairly accessible route that can be done in a day. So we hop on our bike for a day of sport and discovery just outside Paris. [Read more]
From Paris to Maisons-Laffitte by bike: a pastoral ride and a tour of the château
From Paris to Maisons-Laffitte, it only takes one pedal stroke: with a sunny day ahead, set off to discover this chic town in the Yvelines, without a car or the metro! [Read more]
The Château Landon Pool, Paris's oldest swimming facility, has reopened its doors in the 10th arrondissement.
Closed since 2018, the Château-Landon swimming pool in the 10th arrondissement of Paris is finally reopening its doors this Monday, February 23, 2026. Originally opened in 1884, this historic swimming pool has undergone a €14 million renovation. Here’s everything you need to know about the new features, pricing, and opening hours. [Read more]
Sheesh by Danny Khezzar: we checked out his street-food spot in Paris
Sheesh, the street-food hotspot from chef Danny Khezzar has just opened in Paris’s 2nd arrondissement. We tasted his reimagined sandwiches, including a four-hands collaboration with Michel Roth, a must-try this season. [Read more]
Mallory Gabsi: we tried 140°, his Belgian fry shop in Paris
Mallory Gabsi’s fry shop 140° opens its doors this Saturday, June 27, 2026, in the Montorgueil district (Paris 2nd arrondissement). Note that the first 100 visitors at opening will receive a free cone of fries. We checked it out in advance and here’s the full scoop. [Read more]
Cramat': we tried the pop-up restaurant by Alexy from Top Chef on the outskirts of Paris
The pop-up restaurant Cramat has set up its braziers at Quai Ouest in Saint-Cloud, where Alexy Algar-Denos, a Top Chef 2026 finalist, serves Catalan cuisine cooked over fire. We tried this table perched above the Seine, a must-try all summer in 2026, and here’s what we thought. [Read more]
World brunch in Montreuil: we tried Baiman’s Cake (93)
Just launched, Baiman's Cake's World Brunches whisk you away on a culinary trip for a meal in Montreuil, Seine-Saint-Denis. Istanbul, Rome, Paris, New York or London: five new, homemade gourmand options to discover right away, every weekend. [Read more]
We checked out an all-you-can-eat Italian brunch in Boulogne!
Pizzas made in-house, pasta, burrata and tiramisu—unlimited for 30 euros: every Sunday, the Italian trattoria Dopo in Boulogne-Billancourt serves up a generous, no-frills brunch for a relaxed moment for two, with family, or with friends. [Read more]
La Table d'Alice, a convivial restaurant with a summer terrace in Versailles, Yvelines
La Table d'Alice, the welcoming bistro imagined by chef Cyril Fabien, opens its terrace for the sunny days on the pretty square opposite Saint-Symphorien Church in Versailles (78). We headed there to test it, and here’s what we found. [Read more]
La Halle de la Varenne opens its gourmet hall in Val-de-Marne, kicking off with a bustling weekend.
La Halle de la Varenne opens its doors in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, Val-de-Marne, with a festive inaugural weekend on May 9–10, 2026, after months of work. A renovated gourmet market to discover in preview starting this Thursday, April 30, 2026, with special introductory prices. [Read more]
Chiv's Koy, the new temple of fried chicken in Paris's 13th arrondissement
Vous love roast chicken or homemade fried chicken? Head to Chiv's Koy on Rue Véronèse, in Paris' 13th arrondissement. The spot has just opened a new street-food outpost in a bigger space that’s perfect for family meals, hangs with friends, or a quick take-away if you’re in a hurry. We tried it and here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]
LaCrèma gelato, the new plant-based artisanal ice cream shop near the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Panthéon
We pushed open the door of LaCrèma, the new artisanal ice-cream shop on Rue Soufflot in Paris’s 5th arrondissement, open since April 2026. Behind the counter, Roberta and her house-made plant-based gelatos are shaking things up. Here’s everything you need to know! [Read more]
Rosa Maison pâtissière, the patisserie - a 9th arrondissement coffee shop with exceptional flans and Paris-Brest
Rosa Maison Pâtissière opened its doors in early 2026 on Rue Lafayette, in Paris’s 9th arrondissement. A pastry shop and specialty café run by two former high-school classmates invites you into this cozy tea room with a terrace. The address already has Parisians flocking for its signature flans, to name just one highlight. [Read more]
La Petite Marguerite, the bouillon that's winning over Seine-Saint-Denis
Nestled on Rue du Plaisir in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, La Petite Marguerite is a neighborhood bistro that pleases Seine-Saint-Denis with a generous, brasserie-style menu and prices as friendly as you’d expect, with dishes that are all homemade. [Read more]
L'Auberge Nouvelle: The Friendly Bistro and Cheese Bar Taking Over the Yvelines’ Starred Restaurant Spotlight
Head to Yvelines, in Tremblay-sur-Mauldre, to check out the Auberge Nouvelle, which has taken over the space previously occupied by the Michelin-starred restaurant Numéro 3. This welcoming bistro features a rolling cheese cart, classic regional dishes, and lively music nights — here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]
Gamra, the Moroccan restaurant serving up authentic, homemade dishes, is delighting diners in the 17th arrondissement of Paris
A new Moroccan restaurant is opening its doors in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. Gamra welcomes diners on rue Cardinet with a cozy, homemade family cuisine: tajines, couscous, soft breads, and Moroccan pastries are on the menu at this charming spot. As a bonus, they also offer a special Ftour menu during Ramadan. [Read more]
An exclusive, secret brunch beneath the stunning dome of Printemps Haussmann
Printemps Haussmann launches its first Sunday brunch at Bleu Coupole, located on the 6th floor of Printemps Femme. Priced at €38, this exclusive offering features stunning views of Paris and has been crafted by chefs Xavier Pistol and Bryan Esposito. Perfectly designed for relaxing Sundays. [Read more]
Lulu Crêperie: The King of Ultra-Gourmet Street Food Crêpes in the 3rd Arrondissement of Paris
At the Marché des Enfants Rouges in Paris, Lulu Crêperie delights diners with its huge, indulgent Breton galettes. Located in the 3rd arrondissement, this street food spot serves up generous, flavorful crepes from Tuesday to Sunday—perfect for a quick, tasty bite. [Read more]
Cheesy Cakes, Paris's newest haven for cheesecake lovers
After making a splash in Amsterdam, chef Spiros Mariatos is now bringing his love for cheesecake to Paris with Cheesy Cakes, a dedicated shop located in the 11th arrondissement. Barely open, the new spot already invites us to explore this fresh haven for all things sweet. Here's everything you need to know. [Read more]
The charming and affordable tea time experience at Jardin de Mademoiselle, a hidden gem in the 7th arrondissement of Paris
Le Jardin de Mademoiselle, a charming tea salon tucked away in the 7th arrondissement near Les Invalides, offers a personalized tea time experience every day, tailored to your cravings and budget. This time, we’re inviting you to explore their delightful tea time options in a whimsical setting—perfect for any season. [Read more]
Star Wars: a 300 sq m pop-up shop has landed in the heart of Paris — our verdict and photos
The Star Wars universe makes a detour through Paris — landing at Les Halles on April 30, 2026. A 300-square-meter pop-up, boasting more than 1,000 items and activities designed for kids and for collectors. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From September 1, 2026 to September 30, 2029
