Best Neighborhoods for Families in Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is not only a haven for solo travelers and couples but also a fantastic place for families. With its rich culture, beautiful architecture, and abundance of parks, it's an ideal city for expats and digital nomads with children. Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for a family-friendly experience. Here are some of the best quartiers in Paris that cater to the needs of families, offering a mix of tranquility, green spaces, good schools, and community life.

Le Marais

Le Marais is a historic district that has become one of the most charming and vibrant areas of Paris. It's a great place for families who appreciate a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. With its narrow streets, beautiful squares like Place des Vosges, and private mansions turned museums, it offers a cultural feast for both parents and children. Families can enjoy picnics in the parks, visit the Musée Picasso or Centre Pompidou, and take part in various workshops and activities often held in the area.

Location: Spans the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, on the Right Bank of the Seine.
Real Estate: Le Marais is one of the pricier neighborhoods, with rentals and purchase prices above the city average.
International Schools: There are several bilingual schools in the area, including the École Internationale Bilingue, which offers education from nursery to high school following the French curriculum with a strong emphasis on English.
Where to Eat: Le Marais is filled with family-friendly cafes and restaurants, such as Les Enfants Rouges, known for its market and diverse food stalls.
Interesting History: Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, is located here and is a perfect example of the early modern urban planning in the city.
Parks: The area is home to several small parks, with the Square du Temple being a popular spot for families.

Montmartre

Montmartre, known for its bohemian past and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, is also a family-friendly neighborhood. Its village-like atmosphere is perfect for families looking for a quieter pace of life while still being in the city. The area boasts artistic streets, open-air markets, and many small parks where children can play. The Montmartre Vineyard even offers a touch of countryside charm within the urban landscape.

Location: Occupies the 18th arrondissement, in the northern part of Paris.
Real Estate: Real estate prices can vary, with some areas offering more affordable options than the central districts.
International Schools: Montmartre doesn't have a large selection of international schools, but the Lycée International de Paris Honoré de Balzac offers an international section with a bilingual program.
Where to Eat: La Famille, a restaurant with a creative menu and a welcoming atmosphere for families.
Interesting History: The neighborhood was once the heart of the Parisian art scene, with artists like Picasso and Van Gogh living and working here.
Parks: The Square Louise Michel provides a green space with play areas for children and a stunning view of the city.

Batignolles

Batignolles is a former village that has retained its community feel, making it ideal for families. It's a bit off the beaten path, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of central Paris. The neighborhood has a mix of traditional Parisian architecture and modern developments, with plenty of schools, playgrounds, and family-oriented cafes. The Cité des Fleurs, a pedestrian street lined with private houses and gardens, is a hidden gem within the area.

Location: Situated in the 17th arrondissement, in the northwest of Paris.
Real Estate: The area offers a range of housing options, with prices generally more affordable than in central Paris.
International Schools: The International School of Paris is not far, offering an International Baccalaureate program for students from ages 3 to 18.
Where to Eat: Les Puces des Batignolles is a cozy bistro that's great for a family brunch.
Interesting History: The neighborhood was once a part of the commune of Clichy before being integrated into Paris.
Parks: Parc Martin Luther King is a modern park with play areas, water features, and sports facilities, making it a favorite among local families.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers an upscale living experience with its chic boutiques, art galleries, and historic cafes like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots. It's a culturally rich neighborhood with excellent schools and a family-friendly atmosphere. The Luxembourg Gardens are a short walk away, providing a vast space for children to play and families to relax.

Location: Located in the 6th arrondissement, on the Left Bank of the Seine.
Real Estate: This is one of the most expensive areas in Paris, with high real estate prices reflecting its desirability.
International Schools: The area is close to several bilingual schools, including the Lycée International Montessori - École Athéna for younger children.
Where to Eat: Little Breizh is a family-friendly creperie with a warm atmosphere and delicious Breton pancakes.
Interesting History: The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, after which the area is named, is one of the oldest churches in Paris.
Parks: The Jardin du Luxembourg is the most famous park nearby, known for its beautiful fountains, statues, and the Palais du Luxembourg.

Passy

Passy is a quiet, upscale neighborhood that's perfect for families seeking a more residential feel. With its elegant buildings, excellent schools, and proximity to the Bois de Boulogne, Passy offers a high quality of life. The area is also home to the Maison de Balzac, a museum dedicated to the famous writer, which can be an educational outing for the whole family.

Location: Located in the 16th arrondissement, on the Right Bank of the Seine.
Real Estate: Passy is known for its luxury apartments and high real estate prices.
International Schools: The neighborhood is close to the International School of Paris, as well as the British School of Paris, catering to a diverse expat community.
Where to Eat: Café de l'Homme offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and a menu that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.
Interesting History: Passy Cemetery is the resting place of many notable figures, including composer Claude Debussy.
Parks: The Jardin du Ranelagh is a charming park with playgrounds and puppet shows for children.

La Muette

La Muette is a peaceful and affluent neighborhood that's great for families who prioritize safety and serenity. It's close to the Bois de Boulogne, which is perfect for weekend family outings, with activities like boating and horseback riding. The area also has a good selection of schools and is known for its quiet streets and spacious apartments.

Location: Also part of the 16th arrondissement, near Passy.
Real Estate: La Muette offers some of the most exclusive real estate in Paris, with prices to match.
International Schools: The area is served by the nearby International School of Paris and the British School of Paris.
Where to Eat: Gare de La Muette is a restaurant set in a former train station, offering a unique dining experience for families.
Interesting History: The neighborhood is home to the Musée Marmottan Monet, which houses the largest collection of Monet paintings in the world.
Parks: The Bois de Boulogne is the main attraction, with its lakes, gardens, and playgrounds.

Vincennes

Although technically just outside the Paris city limits, Vincennes is a suburb that many families choose for its green spaces and suburban feel while still being well-connected to central Paris. The Bois de Vincennes, the city's largest public park, offers a zoo, a botanical garden, and plenty of space for outdoor activities. The area has a strong community vibe, with local markets and family-run shops.

Location: Immediately to the east of Paris, accessible by the RER A and metro line 1.
Real Estate: Vincennes offers more affordable housing options compared to central Paris neighborhoods.
International Schools: There are several bilingual schools in the vicinity, such as the École Bilingue Montessori du Val-de-Marne.
Where to Eat: Le Don Camillo offers Italian cuisine in a family-friendly setting.
Interesting History: The Château de Vincennes is a massive medieval fortress and royal residence that is open to the public.
Parks: The Bois de Vincennes is the highlight, with its expansive lawns, lakes, and the Parc Floral de Paris.

Bercy

Bercy is a modern and dynamic neighborhood that has undergone significant redevelopment. It's a great area for families who enjoy contemporary living with plenty of amenities. The Bercy Village shopping and entertainment complex offers a cinema, shops, and restaurants, while the Parc de Bercy provides green space for relaxation and play. The neighborhood is also home to the Cinémathèque Française, which hosts family-friendly film screenings and workshops.

Location: Located in the 12th arrondissement, on the Right Bank of the Seine.
Real Estate: Bercy has a mix of modern apartments and older buildings, with prices that are more moderate than in central Paris.
International Schools: While there are no major international schools in Bercy itself, there are several options in nearby neighborhoods.
Where to Eat: Bercy Village offers a variety of dining options, such as Les 400 Coups, a cafe with a play area for children.
Interesting History: The area was once a major wine market, and the former wine warehouses have been preserved as part of Bercy Village.
Parks: Parc de Bercy is a modern park with gardens, ponds, and playgrounds, adjacent to the Seine.