A kids’ guide to Paris

This is the first port of call for savvy Parisian parents in search of super-stylish toys, interior bits and accessories for kids that won’t burn a hole in their wallets. So why not follow their lead?

Speed back in time by running – or hopping – up the steps of the capital’s highest medieval tower. Incongruously located in a modern-day schoolyard in the Marais, it also hosts fun exhibitions to bring history to life.

This stunning Art Deco cinema holds a behind-the-scenes ‘Studio Tour’. Over-5s can explore the projection room, play with special effects and become the stars of their own take-home film.

For more than 92 years the Bouglione family has kept Paris in its thrall with its spectacular circus acts, which have included performers such as Robin Valençia, a female human cannon ball.

This splashy new playground within the Nelson Mandela Garden is part of the revamp of the once-seedy les Halles area into an attractive leisure destination. Measuring a whopping 1,400m2, it has swings, caves and jungle gyms a-go-go for kids aged 2-6.

Families rule at this laid-back venue, where adults can eat and drink their coffee in peace. Kids can roam free around the coin môme (tots corner), which includes toys and a clever mini-bar serving fruit juice shooters.

This cute pâtisserie does the classics, as well as more fun fare (including cakes in the shape of Lego, cartoon wolves and other crazy bespoke creations). It also holds regular baking ateliers for both kids and parents.

The jaunty canteen for the capital’s cinema museum – named after François Truffaut’s famous film – features a small-fry-friendly menu (think spag bol and chocolate cake). When your little ones tire of sitting still, they’ll also find a play area with a shadow puppet screen.