Expert Guide To The Best Family-Friendly Playgrounds In Paris

The best playgrounds on Left Bank of the Seine River in Paris

One of the perks of the Left Bank of Paris, France – or Rive Gauche for Parisians – is its relative calm compared to the Right Bank – Rive Droite – and its abundance of parks and greenery in the spring and summer. This makes it a family-friendly neighborhood featuring some of the best playgrounds in Paris. Rive Gauche is rich with many cultural landmarks you might want to visit during your time in Paris: La Tour Eiffel, L’Hôtel des Invalides, Le Panthéon, le Musée Rodin, la Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris and many more.

Personal Playground Recommendations in Paris

This guide features my personal favorite parks and playgrounds as a resident of the 6th arrondissement, meaning most of these parks are within walking distance from home. There are amazing parks and playgrounds in other areas of the Left Bank – but I prefer to recommend the ones that I know best. In other words, here is my list of tried and true parks and playgrounds our family loves on our bank of the Seine River in Paris.

Planning Your Family Visit to Paris

Our beautiful city of Paris is full of surprises: see a grand tree behind a gate? Chances are it’s a beautiful hidden park or playground. To help you narrow it down if, like me, you like to plan ahead, find out where to go with kids on the Left Bank of Paris, beyond the famous Jardin du Luxembourg. Depending on your plans for the day and your itinerary – are you visiting the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Le Musée Rodin, Notre Dame de Paris? – I recommend visiting these parks and playgrounds. The smaller parks can allow for a 15-minute breather between visits, whereas the larger ones might require a couple of hours or a half-day to explore. I hope you’ll love these as much as my family does!

#1: Jardin du Luxembourg, 6th arrondissement of Paris

Le Jardin du Luxembourg, also known as the Luxembourg Gardens, is a famous public park located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France. It is one of the most popular and well-known parks in the city. The garden covers an area of 25 hectares (about 62 acres) and is situated near the Latin Quarter, close to the Sorbonne University and the Panthéon.

The Luxembourg Gardens were created in the early 17th century at the request of Queen Marie de’ Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France. Inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, Italy, the park was designed in a formal French garden style and initially served as the garden of the Luxembourg Palace, which now houses the French Senate.

The park features beautiful lawns, flowerbeds, and a wide variety of trees, including chestnut and apple trees. It also includes several notable features and attractions such as:

1. The Grand Bassin: A large octagonal pond where children can sail model boats, available for rent.
2. The Medici Fountain: A stunning fountain featuring a statue of Polyphemus and Galatea, inspired by classical mythology.
3. The Orangerie: A greenhouse where orange trees are grown during winter.
4. The Luxembourg Palace: A magnificent palace that now serves as the seat of the French Senate.
5. The Petit Luxembourg: A smaller palace within the gardens that is the official residence of the President of the Senate and is not open to the public.

The Jardin du Luxembourg offers several activities and attractions that are perfect for the big kids as well as toddlers and even babies. Here are some things you can do with children at the Luxembourg Gardens:

The Playground:

The gardens have a large playground area with swings, slides, and climbing structures. Kids can have a great time playing and burning off some energy. There is a small fee to enter and a queue during peak hours in the summertime.

Sail Boats:

At the Grand Bassin, visitors can rent small sailboats and sail them on the pond. It’s a fun and interactive activity that kids enjoy. They are available for rent at Les Voiliers du Luxembourg, located on the South Side of the Bassin. Bonus points if it’s a windy day, it will be all the more fun!

Puppet Theater:

The Théâtre des Marionnettes (Puppet Theater) located in the park offers entertaining puppet shows for children. The shows are usually performed in French but can still be enjoyable for non-French speakers due to the visual nature of puppetry. You can only buy tickets right before the show but you can check availabilities and watch trailers on their website (only available in French).

The Carousel

The gardens have a beautiful carousel with intricately designed horses. One might find it dated, but, us Parisians like to think that it’s charmingly historical.

Basketball court

The Luxembourg Gardens have basketball courts that are open to the public. Schedule in some downtime in between cultural visits by engaging in a friendly game or practice with your children. Don’t forget to bring your own ball or learn to ask to borrow one from fellow players in French!

Explore the Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Kids can explore the various paths, fountains, and statues while enjoying the outdoors. For Americans, it’s especially interesting to walk by the Statue of Liberty, a 1/16 scale replica of the New York City statue.

Relax and Picnic

Find a cozy spot on the lawns or benches and have a family picnic. The Luxembourg Gardens provide a peaceful setting where you can enjoy a Jambon Beurre or a Croissant from one of our delicious neighbourhood boulangeries.

These are just a few of the activities you can enjoy at the Luxembourg Gardens. The park offers a delightful blend of nature, play areas, and entertainment in the center of Paris, making it a wonderful destination for families with children of any age visiting Paris.

Additionally, the garden’s central location makes it a hub for intellectual and cultural activities. It has been a gathering place for artists, writers, and intellectuals throughout history. Today, the Luxembourg Gardens continue to be a cherished landmark and a favorite destination for both Parisians and visitors alike.

#2: Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, 6th arrondissement of Paris

We love this one because it’s in the continuity of Le Jardin du Luxembourg and is very family-friendly. You will find more young Parisians playing in this area than in Le Jardin du Luxembourg which tends to be more touristy. At the intersection with rue Michelet, there is a park with slides and climbing for the older kids – 3 to 10 years old – and on the opposite side of the street, a smaller park with a sandbox and a slide for toddlers and babies.

Opposite from the playground is a (tiny) dog park. Your children might enjoy watching Parisian dogs playing together and running about. Or, if you’re travelling with your dog, it’s one of the rare spots where you can let them run free in Paris.

Large grass areas are also available for play – many children actually celebrate their birthdays here during the warmer months. Technically, it is forbidden to play ball games on the lawn, however, you will see dozens of children playing soccer without any issue. If you need to buy a ball before heading to the park, I recommend stopping at Décathlon City, located at 104 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris. They usually have a varied selection: foam balls for the toddlers and youngest children, leather soccer balls for the older kids.

#3: Jardin Catherine Labouré, 7th arrondissement of Paris

Jardin Catherine Labouré is a small and charming garden located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, France. This lovely public garden is situated in the heart of the city, near the famous Montparnasse Cemetery and a short walk from the Montparnasse Tower. It is named after Catherine Labouré, a French nun who lived in the 19th century and is known for her association with the Miraculous Medal.

The garden is a peaceful and serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city, providing a quiet place for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy some greenery. It features well-maintained lawns, flowerbeds, and a variety of trees, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply a place to sit and read a book.

One of the highlights of Jardin Catherine Labouré is a statue of the Virgin Mary, which pays homage to Catherine Labouré and her vision of the Miraculous Medal. This statue is a beautiful and tranquil focal point within the garden.

The garden is relatively small in size compared to some of the more famous parks in Paris, but its intimate and secluded atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a quiet escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

1. Quiet and Safe Environment: Jardin Catherine Labouré is a relatively small and peaceful garden, making it a safe place for children to explore and play without the noise and crowds often found in larger parks. The calm atmosphere allows for quality family time.
2. Picnic Opportunities: The garden provides a pleasant setting for a picnic, and kids often enjoy outdoor meals. You can pack a picnic and enjoy it on the garden’s lawns, creating a relaxed and enjoyable family outing.
3. Space to Run and Play: The open green spaces in the garden offer children ample room to run around, play games, and expend their energy. This can be a great break for kids who might be tired of sightseeing or city walking.
4. Beautiful Scenery: Jardin Catherine Labouré features well-maintained flowerbeds, trees, and a statue of the Virgin Mary. It’s a visually appealing place that can spark a child’s curiosity and interest in nature and art.
5. Cultural and Historical Significance: The garden’s connection to Catherine Labouré and the Miraculous Medal can be an opportunity to introduce your children to historical and religious aspects of French culture. It’s an educational setting to discuss the history and significance of this site.
6. Convenient Location: Jardin Catherine Labouré is centrally located in Paris, making it easy to incorporate into your day if you’re already exploring the 7th arrondissement or nearby attractions like Montparnasse Cemetery. It’s a great place to take a break during your sightseeing adventures.
7. Relaxing Atmosphere: Paris can be a bustling city, and a visit to this quiet and secluded garden can provide a welcome break, allowing both kids and parents to recharge and unwind.
8. There is a small playground in the park featuring slides and structures for climbing for kids 3-10 years old.

Remember to bring some snacks, drinks, and perhaps a blanket for a picnic, and encourage your kids to explore and appreciate the natural beauty and history of Jardin Catherine Labouré. It’s a peaceful and family-friendly spot to include in your Paris itinerary.

#4: Square Boucicaut, 7th arrondissement of Paris

Square Boucicaut, also known as Square de la Place Étienne Pernet, is a charming public garden located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, France. It’s a relatively small but well-maintained park that offers a peaceful and pleasant environment. The square is named after Étienne Pernet, a French priest and founder of the Little Sisters of the Assumption, a religious congregation.

Here are some reasons why you might consider visiting Square Boucicaut with kids:

1. Playground: Square Boucicaut features two playgrounds with various play structures and equipment for children. It provides a safe and enjoyable space for kids to have fun and interact with others. There is a dedicated space for children under 3 years old with a smaller slide and a sand-box type area for the older children up to 10 years old.
2. Greenery: The square is adorned with lawns, flowerbeds, and trees, creating a lovely atmosphere for kids to explore and enjoy nature. It’s a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll.
3. Picnic Areas: You can bring a picnic and enjoy a meal in the park. There are picnic areas and benches available, making it a great spot for a family outdoor lunch.
4. Relaxed Atmosphere: Square Boucicaut is not as crowded as some of the larger parks in Paris, so it offers a quieter and more relaxed environment for both children and adults. It’s a good place to take a break from sightseeing.
5. Central Location: The 7th arrondissement is a desirable area of Paris, and this park’s central location makes it easy to include in your itinerary if you’re exploring the neighbourhood. It’s also conveniently situated in walking distance of other popular attractions, such as Le Bon Marché, Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Place Saint-Sulpice and its impressive church.

Overall, Square Boucicaut is a family-friendly space where children can play, explore, and enjoy some outdoor time in the heart of Paris. If you’re visiting in the summer heat, misters will be turned on to help you find some cool in a city featuring little air-conditioning.

#5: Square des Missions Etrangères, 7th arrondissement of Paris

Square des Missions Étrangères is a delightful and relatively small park located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, near Le Bon Marché. It can be a pleasant place to visit with kids for a few reasons:

1. Playground: Recently renovated, this playground offers a wooden structure in the shape of a large ship. Children delight in taking turns playing pretend captain and climbing on all sides of the ship. There is also a small sandbox adjacent to the ship.
2. Green Space: Square des Missions Étrangères offers a small but well-maintained green space with lawns, trees, and flowerbeds. It can provide a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere for children to play, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the outdoors.
3. Historical Interest: The square is located in a historic neighborhood, and it is close to Les Invalides, a famous complex that houses several museums and the tomb of Napoleon. Older children with an interest in history may appreciate the opportunity to explore this area.
4. Central Location: The 7th arrondissement is a prime location in Paris, and this square’s central location makes it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing itinerary. It can be a convenient stop if you’re exploring nearby attractions or grabbing an ice-cream at Le Bac à Glaces located right next to the park’s entrance – you may recognise it from the long line along the sidewalk on your way to the park. Yes, it is that good!
5. Nearby Attractions: Besides Les Invalides, you can also visit the Rodin Museum, which is not far from Square des Missions Étrangères. Both Les Invalides and the Rodin Museum offer interesting sculptures and art that can engage children’s curiosity.

#6: Square Roger Stéphane, 7th arrondissement of Paris

Square Roger Stéphane is a little hidden-gem park located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, France. It can be a pleasant place to visit with kids for several reasons:

1. Playground: this one is specifically designed for children up to 3 years old in mind with a low slide and a small tunnel. Older children can have fun rolling their cars or trucks on the stone-wall surrounding the playground.
2. Green Space: The park features well-maintained lawns and greenery, providing a tranquil environment for kids to run and play. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Our kids adore this park because, despite its smaller size, it offers plenty of stairs to climb, hidden corners to explore and use imaginary play.
3. Peaceful Atmosphere: Square Roger Stéphane is typically quieter and less crowded than some of the larger parks in Paris. This can create a more relaxed setting for kids to explore and enjoy some fresh air.
4. Picnic Opportunities: The park offers picnic areas where you can enjoy a family meal or snack. Packing a picnic can be a cost-effective and enjoyable way to spend time with your kids in a pleasant outdoor setting.
5. Central Location: The park’s central location makes it convenient for incorporating into your itinerary if you’re exploring the 7th arrondissement or other nearby attractions.

Square Roger Stéphane can be a pleasant stop for a relaxing break, a picnic, or a chance for children to enjoy some open space. It’s always a good idea to check the park’s current status and look for any events or activities that may be taking place during your visit to enhance your family’s experience.

Disclaimer: the hidden areas of this park are also a good place for teenagers to hide smoking pot from their parents. They are mostly friendly and mind their own business but beware if this is something that bothers you.

#7: Parc pour enfants de l’avenue de Breteuil, 15th arrondissement of Paris

Parc pour enfants de l’avenue de Breteuil, which translates to “Children’s Park of Avenue de Breteuil,” is a park located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, specifically designed for children. Visiting this park with kids can be a great idea, and here are some reasons why:

1. Playgrounds: The park is equipped with play structures, swings, and other kid-friendly amenities, making it an ideal place for children to have fun and engage in outdoor play.
2. Safety: The park is designed with children’s safety in mind, often featuring soft ground coverings and age-appropriate equipment. It provides a secure and controlled environment for kids to explore.
3. Picnic Areas: Parc pour enfants de l’avenue de Breteuil typically has picnic areas, allowing you to bring snacks or a meal for your children to enjoy in the park.
4. Space to Run and Play: Children can run and play in the open spaces within the park, which is an excellent way for them to expend energy and have a good time.
5. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The park is specifically intended for children and families, so you’re likely to find a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.
6. Central Location: The 15th arrondissement is a well-located neighborhood in Paris, making it easy to incorporate a visit to this park into your day, especially if you’re exploring other nearby attractions or sights.

Overall, Parc pour enfants de l’avenue de Breteuil is a child-oriented park with a focus on providing a fun and safe environment for kids to enjoy. If you’re traveling with children and are looking for a place where they can play and have a good time in a controlled setting, it’s definitely worth considering a visit. However, it’s always a good idea to check the park’s current status and any specific amenities or activities that may be available during your visit.

Playground and parks are our favorite way to entertain our children during a day in the city of Paris. I hope you enjoy this selection of parks on the Left bank of Paris.

I’d love to know: do you enjoy taking your children to the playground or the park? What do you like most about your favorite park? Please share in the comments below!