Summer in Paris has a rhythm of its own. The streets slow down, parks come to life, and families begin to claim their favorite spots across the city. While Paris is often seen as a destination for couples and culture lovers, it’s also full of joy, laughter, and exploration for those discovering it through a family lens.
Whether it’s a first summer in Paris or a return to familiar places, these ten activities bring together the best ways to experience the city as a family. Each one is tested, trusted, and full of the simple magic that makes Paris unforgettable for children and parents alike.
Planning a weekend outside the city? Check out our article on coastal getaways near Paris for day-trip ideas the whole family will enjoy.
1. Enjoy a Family Picnic at Parc des Buttes Chaumont
Tucked into the hilly 19th arrondissement, Parc des Buttes Chaumont feels like an escape from the city. Its cliffs, waterfalls, suspension bridge, and panoramic views make it a favorite among Parisian families. There’s space to explore and hidden corners that feel like they belong in a storybook.
Families can grab fresh fruit, baguettes, and juice boxes from nearby markets, then settle under a shady tree or next to the swan pond for a picnic with a view.
👉 Tip for families: After lunch, climb to the Temple de la Sibylle for one of the most peaceful skyline views in Paris.
🔗 https://www.paris.fr/lieux/parc-des-buttes-chaumont-1757
2. Spend a Beach Day Together at Paris Plages
No need to leave the city to enjoy sand, sun, and splash zones. Every summer, Paris Plages transforms the banks of the Seine and the Bassin de la Villette into beach-style hangouts with free activities for children, deck chairs, and plenty of shade.
The Bassin is especially popular with families, offering water sports, fountains for cooling off, and games hosted by local volunteers.
👉 What to try: Plan a late afternoon visit and bring a picnic to enjoy dinner by the water as the sun sets. It’s a simple moment that children remember long after summer ends.
🔗 https://www.paris.fr/evenements/paris-plages-2025-aux-couleurs-du-bresil-85945
3. Learn and Play at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
This massive science museum in Parc de la Villette is designed with families in mind. Between the planetarium, submarine, and interactive exhibits, children can learn about everything from the solar system to sound waves, all while playing.
The Cité des Enfants is a dedicated space for younger visitors. With two areas for ages 2–7 and 5–12, the experience is structured around curiosity, motion, and imagination.
👉 Family advice: Reserve tickets in advance, especially during weekends or school breaks. After exploring, head to the rooftop café for a relaxed lunch with views over the park.
🔗 https://www.cite-sciences.fr/fr/au-programme/expos-permanentes/cite-des-enfants
4. Experience Classic Paris Fun at Jardin d’Acclimatation
Jardin d’Acclimatation is one of the city’s oldest amusement parks, located in the Bois de Boulogne. Designed for younger children, it offers gentle rides, shaded picnic areas, a petting zoo, puppet shows, and water play zones.
The entire park is made for family enjoyment, from the vintage carousel to the splash pad near the playground.
👉 What to expect: Families can ride the little train from Porte Maillot straight into the park, creating excitement even before the gates open.
🔗 https://www.jardindacclimatation.fr/fr
5. Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Ciné Plein Air at Parc de la Villette is one of the most beloved family events during the Paris summer. This open-air film series offers a mix of animated films, classics, and international movies, many with English subtitles, all projected on a giant screen in the heart of the park.
Families bring blankets, picnic baskets, and a sense of adventure. Children run and play before the movie starts, and there’s often live music or food trucks nearby.
👉 Evening plan: Bring warm layers and arrive early for the best spots. For young viewers, check the schedule in advance for age-appropriate films.
🔗 https://www.lavillette.com/manifestations/cinema-en-plein-air-en/
Looking for even more ideas for fun family outings? Check out our article on kid-friendly cinemas in Paris, with top picks for rainy days or lazy afternoons.
6. Take a Family Cruise on Canal Saint Martin
For a quieter and more personal way to see Paris by water, Canauxrama’s boat tours through Canal Saint Martin are a fantastic choice. These cruises pass through peaceful locks, leafy tunnels, and picturesque footbridges, offering a slower-paced alternative to the crowded Seine river tours.
Children are often fascinated by the lock system and the transition from open-air canal to underground passage.
👉 Best moment: Morning cruises are calmer, and offer families a serene start to their day, especially after a busy week of sightseeing.
7. Meet the Animals at Parc Zoologique de Paris
In the Bois de Vincennes, the Parc Zoologique de Paris invites families into a world of wildlife and education. Redesigned with large, natural habitats, the zoo is divided into five biozones, each with its own atmosphere and animal residents.
Giraffes, lemurs, wolves, and manatees are just a few of the highlights. There are educational stations along the way and plenty of shaded spots to rest.
👉 Family tip: Visit during feeding times and bring reusable water bottles. There are cooling zones and splash tunnels for hot days.
🔗 https://www.parczoologiquedeparis.fr/fr
8. Discover Paris’s Best Ice Cream Spots
Nothing says summer like ice cream, and Paris does it beautifully. From traditional French sorbets to playful cones with endless flavors, the city offers an experience every family can enjoy together.
Berthillon, on Île Saint-Louis, is perfect for classic, refined flavors. Bachir, near Centre Pompidou, adds a Middle Eastern twist with pistachio-coated scoops. And Amorino is a favorite for children who love the signature flower-shaped cones.
👉 Suggestion: Turn it into a fun family challenge, try a new ice cream spot each week and let everyone vote for their favorite.
🔗 https://www.timeout.fr/paris/shopping/glace-sorbet
9. Catch the Sunset at Parc de Belleville
With its terraced gardens and open views, Parc de Belleville offers one of the most peaceful sunset spots in Paris. Located in the 20th arrondissement, it includes a large playground, water features, and grassy areas where families can relax together.
Evenings bring a local energy, with music, shared food, and a mix of families and neighbors enjoying the view as the city lights begin to glow.
👉 Plan the moment: Pick up takeout crêpes and drinks from Rue de Belleville and find a quiet bench at the top of the park to end the day together.
🔗 https://www.paris.fr/lieux/parc-de-belleville-1777
10. Practice French at a Family Conversation Workshop
Many of Paris’s public libraries and cultural centers host free ateliers de conversation, which are informal French conversation workshops open to all levels. These sessions offer a relaxed, friendly environment where families can improve their speaking skills, meet locals, and connect with other expat families. Some libraries even offer bilingual storytime for young children.
A good place to start is the Bibliothèque publique d’information at Centre Pompidou, which regularly organizes French workshops for adults and sometimes offers language events for families. Their full schedule can be found on agenda.bpi.fr.
Another excellent resource is the Paris library network, which includes dozens of neighborhood libraries offering French language activities, both for adults and children. You can explore the list and check your local branch at bibliotheques.paris.fr.
For even more local options, check with your arrondissement’s town hall (mairie) or nearby cultural centers. Many run seasonal programs especially during summer, and often welcome newcomers with open arms.
A Summer That Brings Families Together
Paris in summer is not just about sightseeing. It is about sharing ice cream on a bridge, learning how to paddle a boat for the first time, and laughing during a movie under the stars. It is about being present with each other and with the city.
For families living in Paris or visiting just for the summer, these activities offer more than entertainment. They build confidence, create connection, and remind everyone that the best memories are often the simplest ones.
Absolutely French – Who We Are – Companies Services
Absolutely French is the first French language school entirely dedicated to expat partners and expatriates.
Our mission:
To support dual careers in expat families by helping partners integrate quickly and confidently into French life.
Our method:
Fun, friendly, and innovative French courses that guarantee results — and help build a local network.
Looking for French classes tailored for expat partners? Want to register your employee’s spouse for a high-quality program?
Let’s connect!
Email: contact@absolutely-french.eu
Phone: +33 (0)1 83 73 98 49
Address: 4, rue Faraday, 75017 Paris