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When deciding where to stay in Paris with kids, consider areas like Montmartre, Le Marais, and the Latin Quarter for their family-friendly atmosphere and easy access to attractions. For a more relaxed vibe, opt for the 15th or 16th arrondissements. Here's a breakdown of each area to help you choose the best one for your family.
Quick answer: the best areas to stay in Paris With Kids
Top Areas for Families
Montmartre and Le Marais are excellent choices for families seeking a lively atmosphere. The Latin Quarter is perfect for history buffs, while the 15th arrondissement offers a calm environment. If you're looking for luxury and convenience, the 16th arrondissement might be the way to go. - Family-friendly amenities: Look for areas with parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly museums. - Accessibility: Consider areas with easy access to public transport, pedestrian-friendly streets, and proximity to popular attractions. - Food options: Choose an area with a variety of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.
Quick Tips
- Check the distance from your accommodation to major tourist sites like the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Research areas with a mix of residential and commercial properties for a more local feel.
- Don't forget to consider noise levels and potential disruptions when choosing an area.
Montmartre: best for families with young children
Charming atmosphere and artistic vibe
Montmartre is a beloved area in Paris, famous for its bohemian charm, street artists, and stunning views of the city. Families with young children will appreciate the area's laid-back atmosphere, which makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed stay.
Accessibility and transport links
Montmartre is well-connected to other parts of the city via public transportation. The Anvers metro station (line 2) and the Abbesses-Funiculaire are just a short walk away. You can also take bus lines 31, 43, or 84 to get around.
Pros:
- Charming atmosphere and artistic vibe
- Plenty of parks and green spaces for kids to play
- Variety of restaurants and cafes serving kid-friendly food
- Easy access to public transportation
- Consider staying in the lower part of Montmartre, which is more family-friendly than the higher parts with their steep streets and narrow alleys.
- Take a stroll along Rue de Rosiers, lined with charming shops and cafes.
- Don't miss the stunning views from the top of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Le Marais: best for families seeking a trendy vibe
This hip area in the 3rd arrondissement is perfect for families looking for a lively atmosphere and plenty of things to see and do.
Pros:
- Unique boutiques and independent shops for kids to explore
- A variety of restaurants serving international cuisine, including family-friendly options like burgers and pizza
- Plenty of parks and green spaces, such as the Parc de la Villette and the Square René Le Gall
- The trendy vibe is contagious, with street performers and live music adding to the area's energy
- Many museums and galleries are within walking distance, including the Picasso Museum and the Musée Carnavalet
- Easy access to public transportation, including bus lines 20, 65, and 96
Latin Quarter: best for families exploring history and culture
Lively atmosphere
The Latin Quarter is a historic neighborhood with a lively atmosphere, perfect for families who love to explore the city's cultural side. Narrow streets lined with charming cafes, bookstores, and art galleries create an immersive experience that will keep you and your kids engaged.
Pros:
- Rich history: You're surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Sulpice Church, and the Sorbonne University.
- Cultural attractions: The neighborhood is home to numerous museums, theaters, and concert halls, including the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
- Diverse dining options: From traditional French cuisine to international flavors, you'll find plenty of restaurants to suit your family's taste.
Cons:
- Narrow streets can be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs
- Limited parking options; public transportation is recommended
- Consider staying in the Latin Quarter if you're looking for an immersive cultural experience with plenty of attractions and dining options.
- Check out Best Hotels in Paris For Couples: How to Choose the Right Stay for general tips on choosing the right area in Paris.
th arrondissement: best for families seeking a calm environment
The 11th arrondissement is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more popular areas like Montmartre or Le Marais. However, this charming neighborhood offers a peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for families with kids.
Quiet streets and parks
You'll find wide, tree-lined streets and beautiful parks like the Parc de Bel Air and the Square René Le Gall. These green spaces are ideal for picnics, playground fun, or simply relaxing in the shade.
- Stroll along the picturesque Rue des Francs-Bourgeois
- Explore the historic Marché d'Aligre market (check current prices for fresh produce and souvenirs)
- Enjoy a family-friendly meal at one of many local bistros
- Take advantage of easy access to public transportation, including bus lines 20, 46, and 69
While it may not have the same level of excitement as other areas in Paris, the 11th arrondissement offers a serene environment that's perfect for families looking for a relaxing stay.
th arrondissement: best for families looking for luxury and convenience
The 16th arrondissement is an upscale neighborhood that offers a luxurious stay for families. This area is known for its wide streets, beautiful parks, and elegant architecture.
Proximity to attractions
You'll find the Eiffel Tower just a short drive away, making it an ideal location for families who want to explore this iconic landmark. The 16th arrondissement also offers easy access to other popular attractions like the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées.
Amenities
The neighborhood is home to several upscale shopping centers, including the Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché. You'll also find plenty of high-end restaurants, cafes, and bakeries to suit your family's tastes. For families with young children, there are several parks and playgrounds in the area, such as the Parc des Princes and the Square de l'Alma.
- Check out our guide on Best Hotels in Paris: How to Choose the Right Stay for more information on finding a comfortable and convenient place to stay with kids.
How to choose the right area in Paris With Kids
When selecting an area to stay in Paris with kids, consider factors like distance to attractions, transportation options, and local amenities.
Distance to Attractions
Think about which areas are closest to the main attractions you want to visit. For example, if your family loves the Eiffel Tower, staying in the 7th or 15th arrondissements could be a good choice. If you're interested in exploring the Louvre and other museums, consider staying in the 1st or 6th arrondissements.
Transportation Options
Paris has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, metro lines, and tramways. Look for areas with easy access to these networks to make getting around simple. You may also want to consider areas with bike-friendly streets or walking paths if you prefer a more leisurely pace. - Check the proximity of your chosen area to major train stations like Gare du Nord or Montparnasse, which can be useful for day trips or longer journeys. - Research the quality and frequency of bus services in your desired area. - Consider areas with direct access to the Seine River, such as the 4th arrondissement, which offers scenic views and boat tours.
Local Amenities
Think about what amenities are important to you and your family. Do you need a park or playground nearby? Are you looking for a neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops? Some areas may offer more amenities than others, so prioritize what matters most to you.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best areas to stay in Paris with kids?
Consider Montmartre, Le Marais, Latin Quarter, and the 15th or 16th arrondissements for their family-friendly atmosphere and easy access to attractions.
How do I choose a neighborhood that's suitable for my family in Paris?
Look for areas with parks, playgrounds, kid-friendly museums, easy public transport links, and proximity to popular attractions.
What are the top neighborhoods for families in Paris?
Montmartre, Le Marais, Latin Quarter, 15th arrondissement, and 16th arrondissement offer a mix of family-friendly amenities, accessibility, and food options.
How do I find a hotel or apartment that's suitable for my kids in Paris?
Research areas with parks, playgrounds, kid-friendly museums, easy public transport links, and proximity to popular attractions.
What are the best areas to stay in Paris if you have young children?
Montmartre is an excellent choice for families with young children due to its laid-back atmosphere, plenty of green spaces, and variety of kid-friendly food options.
How do I get around Paris with kids?
Consider areas with easy access to public transport, pedestrian-friendly streets, and proximity to popular attractions to make getting around with kids easier.
