FIVE FAMILY ACTIVITIES YOU CAN ONLY EXPERIENCE IN PARIS

 

Summer is approaching, bringing with it the irresistible urge to escape with the family. Paris, the City of Light, offers a multitude of unique activities for both young and old. From cultural heritage to green spaces and playful adventures, discover five unforgettable experiences to enjoy as a family — and nowhere else but in Paris.

 

 

 

 

 

 

IN LUPIN'S FOOTSTEPS
at the Opera Garnier

What if you followed in the footsteps of the most elegant thief, the legendary Arsène Lupin?

In the heart of the Palais Garnier, an immersive experience invites you to solve the mystery of the Count of Cagliostro — a case that may have even outwitted the master of disguise.

No cape or top hat needed — just a sharp eye and a sense of deduction. With a detective’s notebook in hand, you're drawn into a life-sized adventure blending immersive theatre and heritage escape game. For 90 minutes, children and adults explore hidden corners of this iconic monument, from grand staircases to secret corridors and the dazzling auditorium.

Every detail is a clue, every molding tells a story. You might hear the echo of a dancer’s step or the whisper of a forgotten ghost. A clever, visually rich activity, ideal for kids aged 8 and up — and for parents ready to see the opera house with new eyes.

Tickets go fast — just like Lupin. Book now.

 

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
at the Jardin des Plantes

If you're dreaming of a green escape without leaving Paris, head to the Jardin des Plantes — a true oasis tucked away in the 5th arrondissement. Created in the 17th century, this historic site is more than just a botanical garden; it's a blend of nature, science, and wonder, designed to delight visitors of all ages.

Stroll through its blooming paths, step into the tropical greenhouses that feel like a jungle, and meet the residents of the Ménagerie, one of the world’s oldest zoos. Here, there’s no overwhelming scale — just a gentle, respectful approach ideal for young explorers. Red pandas, flamingos, reptiles, and snow leopards can all be spotted in a serene, leafy setting.

Continue the journey in the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution at the National Museum of Natural History, where stunning displays — taxidermy animals, soundscapes, lights, and interactive games — captivate instantly. Don’t miss the workshops and events offered year-round: science games, storytelling walks, sensory experiences… Enough to amaze kids — and parents too.

 

A ROYAL DAY OUT
among fountains and enchanted gardens

Treat your family to a majestic getaway with a day trip to the Château de Versailles — just 45 minutes from Paris. A true gem of French heritage, this iconic site enchants history buffs and dreamers alike, young and old.

Start the day with a family-friendly tour through the royal apartments, grand salons, and the famed Hall of Mirrors. Some options include activity booklets or guides specially trained to engage children, making it easy to discover what court life was like under Louis XIV — from public royal wake-ups to queenly meals and 17th-century dance styles.

But the magic doesn’t stop at the palace. The vast formal gardens designed by Le Nôtre stretch out as far as the eye can see. Perfectly manicured paths, hidden groves, sparkling fountains — it's a joy to explore on foot, by bike, or aboard the little train.

In summer, don’t miss the Musical Fountains Show: the fountains come to life in a dazzling aquatic ballet set to baroque music, a spectacle that leaves kids wide-eyed. Between water displays, enjoy a royal picnic on the grass or a treat on a terrace overlooking the Grand Canal.

 

A FAMILY CRUISE
on the Seine

Set sail on a river adventure with Vedettes de Paris, offering a cruise specially designed for families — a mix of history, games, and wonder.

Departing from Port de Suffren, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this one-hour cruise glides past Paris’s most iconic landmarks: Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Grand Palais, the Conciergerie... all seen anew through the curious eyes of children.

But this is no ordinary tour. A guide trained in engaging young audiences leads the cruise with riddles, fun facts, and surprising stories. Kids listen, watch, and participate, while parents enjoy a peaceful ride on a quiet, electric boat with panoramic views.

The journey ends on a high note as each little sailor receives a “Captain” diploma — a proud moment and the perfect keepsake for the trip home.

 

THE BOIS DE BOULOGNE
where nature meets culture

Escape the buzz of Paris with a day in the Bois de Boulogne, a vast green haven on the city’s western edge where nature meets art, children's laughter, and leisurely strolls. Spanning over 800 hectares, this lush park is the perfect setting for a family outing filled with relaxation, discovery, and simple joys.

Start with a walk or bike ride along the shady paths winding through centuries-old trees. If the weather’s nice, enjoy a charmingly old-fashioned activity: renting a rowboat on the lower lake. It’s a peaceful break, surrounded by rippling water, rustling leaves, and the joyful shouts of kids playing captain for the day.

Nearby, the Jardin d’Acclimatation is a timeless family favorite — a chic, vintage-style amusement park featuring rides, a mini farm, creative workshops, and play areas, all nestled among well-kept paths and shaded picnic spots. A true childhood bubble with a distinctly Parisian flair.

The Bois de Boulogne is also a place of culture. Don’t miss the Fondation Louis Vuitton — a stunning Frank Gehry-designed building hosting world-class contemporary art exhibitions. On weekends, family-friendly tours and kids' workshops let young visitors explore art with wide eyes — or paintbrush in hand.

 

From the fountains of Versailles to the mysteries of the Opéra Garnier… summer with the family has never felt so Parisian!