This budget-friendly family itinerary for Paris combines exhilarating paid attractions with wonderful free activities, focusing on engaging children aged 3-12. We've balanced exploration with relaxation, ensuring easy navigation and kid-friendly facilities, all while keeping your budget in mind for a truly special weekend.

Dive into a world of creativity and discovery at the Cité des Enfants at Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie.
This dedicated children's area offers two distinct exhibitions (2-7 years and 5-12 years) with hands-on activities that explore science, technology, and the senses. Kids can build, experiment, and play in a stimulating environment.
Perfect for energetic kids, with exhibits designed for specific age groups (3-7 and 5-12). Ample restrooms and stroller access throughout the facility. Allow 1.5 - 2 hours for a good visit. There are snack bars available. Book tickets in advance, especially for the Cité des Enfants, as sessions are timed.
Easily accessible by Métro Line 7 (Porte de la Villette) or Tramway T3b (Porte de la Villette). Parking is available underground at the Cité des Sciences (paid). Stroller-friendly public transport routes are generally available.
Enjoy a relaxed early evening at the Jardin des Berges de Seine, a contemporary park along the Seine River transformed into a pedestrian promenade.
It features several unique play areas for children, including climbing structures, trampolines, and even an alphabet-themed play space.
A fantastic free spot for kids to burn off some energy with creative play structures. Good for all ages, with separate areas for younger and older children. Public restrooms are available along the quays. Ideal for a wind-down after an indoor activity. Consider bringing a light snack.
Accessible via Métro Line 12 (Assemblée Nationale) or RER C (Musée d'Orsay). The area is pedestrianized and very stroller-friendly. Limited street parking nearby.
Spend the morning at the Parc Zoologique de Paris (Vincennes Zoo), a modern zoo designed with biozones to recreate natural habitats.
Kids will love seeing lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, monkeys, and many other animals up close. It's a large, immersive experience.
Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12, offering educational insights into wildlife. The zoo is extensive, so plan for plenty of walking. Stroller rentals are available, and there are numerous restrooms and baby changing facilities. Allow 3-4 hours for a thorough visit. There are several picnic areas and food kiosks.
Accessible by Métro Line 8 (Porte Dorée) or Tramway T3a (Porte Dorée). Limited paid parking is available nearby, but public transport is highly recommended. The zoo pathways are wide and stroller-friendly.
After the zoo, head to the nearby Bois de Vincennes for a budget-friendly picnic lunch and some playground fun.
The Bois de Vincennes is Paris's largest park and offers vast green spaces, lakes, and various playgrounds.
A great way to save on lunch costs and let the kids run free. Pack sandwiches, fruits, and drinks. There are numerous public playgrounds within the Bois de Vincennes for different age groups. Restrooms might be sparse depending on the exact location, but usually available near major attractions or cafés within the park.
A short walk from the Parc Zoologique de Paris entrance, or a short bus ride. The park is vast and stroller-friendly.
Discover the wonders of the ocean at the Aquarium de Paris (CinéAqua), located in the heart of the city near the Eiffel Tower.
It features over 10,000 fish and invertebrates, shark tanks, a touch pool, and a dedicated 'Medusarium' for jellyfish. There are often live shows and workshops for children.
Engaging for all ages, especially 3-12. The touch pool and shark tank are big hits with kids. The aquarium is fully accessible for strollers, with restrooms and baby changing facilities. Allow 2-3 hours. Check their schedule for feeding times or mermaid shows (if available) for extra excitement.
Accessible via Métro Line 6 and 9 (Trocadéro). Public parking available nearby (paid). The area around Trocadéro is beautiful but can be crowded.
After the aquarium, enjoy the iconic view of the Eiffel Tower from the Trocadéro gardens as dusk approaches. Grab some delicious crepes or ice cream from a nearby vendor for a special family treat to end the day.
A classic Paris experience, especially beautiful as the tower lights up. Kids will enjoy the open space of the gardens and a sweet treat. Public restrooms are available. Great photo opportunity for the family.
Already at Trocadéro from the Aquarium visit. Easy walking distance. The area can be crowded, so keep a close eye on children.
Explore a vibrant Parisian farmers market, such as Marché Bastille.
It's a feast for the senses with fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and local delicacies. Kids can enjoy seeing the colorful stalls and perhaps pick out a special treat.
A wonderful free cultural experience. Kids can enjoy the lively atmosphere and taste samples (if offered). It's an outdoor market, so dress appropriately for the weather. Public restrooms might be limited to nearby cafes. Stroller-friendly, but can be crowded.
Accessible by Métro Line 1, 5, 8 (Bastille). Several bus lines also stop nearby. Street parking is very limited; public transport is recommended.
Spend the afternoon at the Jardin d'Acclimatation, a historic amusement park and garden in the Bois de Boulogne.
It offers a mix of classic rides, puppet shows, a small farm, and beautiful gardens. It's an excellent blend of nature and entertainment.
Ideal for children aged 3-12 with attractions ranging from gentle rides to a puppet theater and an animal farm. The park is very clean, stroller-friendly, and has numerous restrooms. Allow 2-3 hours. There are several cafes and snack kiosks, or you can bring a packed snack.
Accessible via Métro Line 1 (Les Sablons), followed by a short walk or the park's mini-train. Paid parking is available in the Bois de Boulogne.
Wrap up your weekend with a classic Parisian carousel ride and a comforting hot chocolate at a nearby café. The carousel near the Eiffel Tower or in the Jardin du Luxembourg provides a charming, memorable experience. This offers a gentle wind-down before heading home.
A simple, joyful activity that kids always love. Great for younger children, but also charming for older ones. Restrooms are usually available in nearby parks or cafes. It's a lovely way to create a lasting memory of Paris. Consider the Carousel de la Tour Eiffel for views.
If coming from Jardin d'Acclimatation, use Métro Line 1 to Concorde, then Line 8 to École Militaire for Champ de Mars, or Line 4 to Saint-Sulpice/Odéon for Jardin du Luxembourg. Both areas are stroller accessible.
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