Getting there
When wondering what to do with young kids in Paris, look no further than Jardin du Luxembourg (6e). Firstly it’s easily accessible by public transport, the nearest tube stop being ‘Luxembourg’. It’s also a 15 minute walk from Montparnasse station.
Things to do at Jardin du Luxembourg with small kids
LudoJardin playground
This huge playground LudoJardin recently got a revamp. This is good and bad news. Bad, because you now have to pay a (small) entry fee. 3 euros per child. Under 2s go free. 1 euro per grown up, (personally, not sure if any other Paris park charges entry) . But there are many plus points, below:
- There are loads of things to do here, for all ages, with a range of slides, a zip line, sand put and climbing obstacles.
- All under a canopy of trees, it’s a relaxing location for sure
- Toys available to borrow too, like buckets and spades, cones and some pony hoppers.
- Filled with English speaking families – expats won’t feel alone here!
- There’s clean (ish) toilets right on site
- Only one exit for the kids to keep an eye on tiny wanderers.
- They sell coffee onsite too and there’s tons of tables and chairs to chill while you watch the kids (this is rare in France)
Find out more info on the LudoJardin website here
Vintage carousel
One of the oldest carousels you’ll find in Paris! This old thing is beautiful, although not quite like any merry-go-round you’ve seen before, no flashy lights, horses don’t move up and down – the animals simply move around in a circle. 2 euros per ride.
Marionnettes du Luxembourg Gardens
Puppets in the park! This old school marionnette theatre – Marionnettes du Luxembourg Gardens feels like you’ve slipped back in time about 100 years. Many of the shows are humorous retellings of classic fairytales, such as Three Little Pigs, Pinocchio, and Red Riding Hood.
Suitable from age 3+, although smaller kids are allowed entry. Tickets: 7,40 € for adults and children. Free for under 1s. Pay by cash or card.
TIPS: Tickets can only be purchased at the theatre box office 30 minutes before starting of each show. Best to get there early to get a good seat.
Find the latest shows and opening dates here
Rent tiny sailboats (Les Voiliers du Luxembourg)
Over the summer months, set your tiny sailboat a sail in the infamous Jardin du Luxembourg basin. Yet another of the joyful retro kiddie activites you’ll find in Luxembourg Gardens.
Cost: 8€ for 30 minutes
*Note closed for winter
Poney rides
Little ones can hop on and ride a poney at these sessions hosted by Animaponey. Find out the latest times and dates on the website here.
Toilets and baby change
Luxembourg Gardens is a dream for parents with small babies, the toilets are clean, buggy accessible, with child toilets and they have a baby change area (hurrah!). Ignore the toilets right by the Marionnettes du Luxembourg Gardens as they only have step access. Instead head to the ones featured on the Tots City Guide baby map HERE.
Near Jardin Luxembourg
The Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore
On the northern tip of Luxembourg Gardens you’ll find this charming English bookshop, with a selection for both adults and children.
Find more info here about Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore
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