
Chantelivre
Rating
Family of 4
15, 60
Duration
30, 60 minutes
Best Ages
2 and up
About
Chantelivre is a Paris institution, one of the city's oldest dedicated children's bookshops, located on Rue de Sevres in the 6th arrondissement. Opened in 1974, the shop has spent over five decades building a strong reputation with Paris families and book-loving visitors.
The range is deep: board books for toddlers, picture books, illustrated albums, French youth fiction, graphic novels and bandes dessinees for older readers, nonfiction, activity books, and a selection of multilingual titles. Staff are trained readers who can match a child to a book with care, which helps if you are shopping in another language or choosing for a specific age.
The shop hosts author events, readings, and signings regularly, so it works as a cultural stop as well as a place to buy books. Its location near the Jardin du Luxembourg and Le Bon Marche makes it easy to add to a day in that part of Paris. With 778 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, Chantelivre is one of the most reviewed children's destinations in Paris.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings before school-group visits; any day Tuesday, Saturday
Wait Times
None
Nearby Food
The 6th arrondissement has some of Paris's finest cafes. Un Dimanche a Paris on Cour du Commerce Saint-Andre is nearby. Many brasseries and cafes within a two-minute walk.
Why Kids Love It
One of Paris's most beloved children's bookshops, floor-to-ceiling children's titles in a beautifully stocked, welcoming space.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Tell staff your child's age and what they've recently loved reading , the recommendations are remarkably good.
- Check the events calendar for author signings and in-store readings, which are free and often excellent.
- The shop's selection of French picture books makes outstanding Paris souvenirs that last far longer than tourist trinkets.
What to Bring
- A tote bag capable of carrying books , you will almost certainly buy more than you planned
- Your child's current reading level and favorite themes or series
- Time , this is a shop worth spending at least 30, 45 minutes in
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
15, 60
Tips to Save
- Check for the shop's seasonal promotions and loyalty card.
- Older titles and backlist classics are often more affordable than new releases.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Monday
- 1:00 – 7:30 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM










