Place de la Bastille (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Place de la Bastille?
What makes it 61% Kids-Friendly: Children can watch canal locks and use the small playground, but heavy traffic around the plaza and limited public toilets mean vigilant supervision and short stays are advisable.
Positives:
- Interactive learning: Kids can watch lock operations and hear live commentary in English and French
- Safe play area: Jardin du Port de l’Arsenal offers a fenced playground and open lawns for kids to run
Challenges:
- Traffic noise: The square can be busy and noisy; supervise children near the road
- Limited shade: Few trees on the square; bring hats and sunscreen for sunny days
What is Place de la Bastille?
- A public square in eastern Paris occupying the former site of the medieval Bastille fortress and revolutionary prison
- Anchored by the 47-meter Colonne de Juillet, a bronze-topped victory column commemorating the 1830 July Revolution
- Functions as a major traffic junction and cultural landmark, bordered by the modern Opéra Bastille and intersected by multiple boulevards
What is so special about Place de la Bastille for with kids?
- Engage kids with a silent electric boat cruise through four canal locks
- Enjoy a picnic and safe play area at Jardin du Port de l’Arsenal
- Explore artisan workshops and watch live craft demonstrations
- Experience Paris history under Bastille vault remnants
- Plan early visits for quieter crowds and better picnic spots
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore the square, enjoy a picnic and take a short boat cruise without rushing the kids
Kids-Friendly Activities in Place de la Bastille
Electric boat cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin:
1h15 silent electric boat passing under Bastille vault and through four locks
Tip: Book in advance at Port de l’Arsenal and sit near the locks to watch water rise
Play and picnic at Jardin du Port de l’Arsenal:
Small playground, open lawns and benches along the canal basin
Tip: Pack sandwiches and snacks to enjoy on the benches while watching boats
Browse artisan workshops under the Viaduc des Arts:
Historic viaduct with craft studios showcasing glass-blowing, woodwork and jewelry
Tip: Walk on the green footpath above for a quick stroll and watch live demonstrations
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Place de la Bastille
- Early arrival: Visit before 11 AM to secure good picnic spots and quieter boat departures
- Use public restrooms: RATP toilets in Bastille station are free and cleaner than street sanisettes
- Carry a backpack: Pack drinks, snacks and a portable mat so you can move easily between activities
When is the best time to visit Place de la Bastille (Paris, France)?
In spring and summer, picnics and boat cruises run smoothly with longer daylight. In autumn, enjoy cooler air and colorful leaves along the canal. Winters can be chilly; dress in layers and check cruise schedules for reduced services.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Electric boat cruise (2 adults + 2 kids) | EUR 64 |
| Snacks and picnic supplies | EUR 15 |
| Metro round-trip tickets (4) | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 87 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Place de la Bastille
Address: Pl. de la Bastille, Paris, France
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