How to Make Paris Fun and Engaging for Teens

Paris, often hailed as the City of Light, has a romantic allure for adults, but it also offers an exciting blend of activities perfect for teenagers. With its rich history, modern attractions, and vibrant culture, Paris can captivate teens with experiences that are both educational and fun. Here’s a guide to making a trip to Paris unforgettable for the young explorers in your life.

1. Dive into Parisian Culture with a Modern Twist

Street Art Tours

Paris has a thriving street art scene, especially in neighborhoods like Belleville and the 13th arrondissement. Teens interested in art or photography will love exploring colorful murals and learning about the stories behind them.

Tip: Book a guided street art tour for insights into the works and their creators.

Pop Culture Museums

Musée de l’Illusion: A mind-bending collection of optical illusions that’s perfect for interactive fun and Instagram-worthy moments.
Musée Grévin: Paris’s answer to Madame Tussauds, with wax figures of celebrities and historical icons.

2. Explore Iconic Landmarks with a Teen-Friendly Spin

Eiffel Tower by Night

The Eiffel Tower is a must-see, but visiting at night adds an extra sparkle. Teens will love the shimmering light show and the panoramic views from the top.

Tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the long lines.

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

Combine a stroll along this iconic avenue with a climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for sweeping views of Paris. Encourage teens to capture unique photos of the symmetrical cityscape.

The Catacombs

For those with a taste for the macabre, the Catacombs offer a fascinating (and slightly spooky) look at Paris’s underground history.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid long queues and bring comfortable shoes for walking.

3. Indulge in Parisian Food Adventures

Cooking Classes

Enlist your teen in a French cooking or baking class where they can learn to make croissants, macarons, or crêpes.

Top Picks: Le Foodist or Cook’n With Class Paris offer teen-friendly options.

Explore Cafés and Markets

Visit Le Marais for its trendy cafés and delicious falafel.
Spend time at Marché Bastille or Marché des Enfants Rouges to sample Parisian street food and unique snacks.

Dessert Stops

Ladurée: Iconic for macarons, but also great for its chic interiors.
Angelina: Renowned for hot chocolate that’s a decadent treat for any sweet tooth.

4. Indulge Them in Parisian History and Art

Interactive Museums

Musée d’Orsay: Its stunning collection of Impressionist art is complemented by its Instagrammable interiors. Teens may also appreciate its shorter length compared to the Louvre.
Louvre Scavenger Hunt: Instead of a typical visit, sign up for a family or teen-friendly scavenger hunt to make exploring this massive museum more engaging.

Historical Tours

Opt for themed tours, such as a French Revolution walking tour or a Notre-Dame de Paris history walk. These tours bring history to life with storytelling.

5. Let Them Shop in Trendy Neighborhoods

Le Marais

Filled with independent boutiques, vintage stores, and cutting-edge fashion, this area is perfect for teens who love to shop or window-browse.

Boulevard Haussmann

For a more traditional shopping experience, department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps offer a mix of luxury and everyday brands.

6. Go Outdoors and Get Active

Bike Tours

Explore Paris on wheels with a guided bike tour along the Seine, through charming neighborhoods, or past major landmarks. It’s active, fun, and gives a fresh perspective on the city.

Parks and Gardens

Jardin du Luxembourg: Rent a toy sailboat for the fountain or enjoy a relaxed picnic.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A hidden gem with dramatic cliffs, a waterfall, and scenic walking paths.

7. Modern Entertainment Options

Escape Rooms

Paris offers themed escape rooms that range from historical mysteries to futuristic challenges.

HintHunt and The Escape Lab are great options for group activities.

Virtual Reality Experiences

Venues like Illucity allow teens to indulge themselves in fun VR adventures, from exploring outer space to solving mysteries.

8. Take a Day Trip

Versailles: The opulent palace and its sprawling gardens can be a hit, especially if combined with the mini electric carts for exploring the grounds.
Disneyland Paris: For a day of amusement park fun that’s sure to delight teens and younger siblings alike.

9. Capture the Trip Creatively

Encourage teens to document their Parisian adventure through photos, journaling, or even vlogging. The city’s endless charm and photogenic spots can fuel their creativity.

10. Speak Their Language

Lastly, involve teens in the planning process. Let them choose activities that excite them, whether it’s a shopping spree, a specific museum, or a café they’ve seen on TikTok. Giving them a say ensures they’ll feel more connected to the experience.

Paris, with its blend of timeless beauty and modern attractions, offers endless possibilities for making a trip memorable and engaging for teens. With the right mix of activities, they’ll leave with stories to share and a newfound appreciation for the city’s magic.