France Family Holidays

France is a great family destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages, such as exploring iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, enjoying delicious French cuisine, visiting Disneyland Paris, and relaxing on beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Here are some reasons why you’ll enjoy your France family holidays:

• Disneyland Paris: The theme park has numerous attractions, entertainment shows, and parades that are designed for all age groups.
• Iconic landmarks and historical sites: France has some of the most famous landmarks in the world, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles, and the Notre Dame Cathedral (reopening in 2024), offering great opportunities for family learning and exploration.
• Cultural experiences: French culture is renowned for its food, fashion, art, and music, and there are numerous festivals and events throughout the year that offer unique cultural experiences for families.
• Outdoor activities: France offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, cycling, and water sports in picturesque landscapes like the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the French Riviera.
• Family-friendly accommodations: There are a variety of accommodations for families in France, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious villas, and many offer amenities like kids’ clubs, playgrounds, and swimming pools.
• Easy accessibility: France is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it easy to travel around the country, and there are plenty of family-friendly transportation options like bike rentals and boat tours.

Things to Do for Your France Family Holidays

Here are some things to do on your France family holidays:

1. Visit Disneyland Paris: This popular theme park offers attractions, shows, and parades for all ages, making it a must-visit destination for families.
2. Explore the Eiffel Tower: Kids will love the thrill of going up the iconic Eiffel Tower, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
3. Discover the Louvre Museum: The Louvre is one of the world’s largest museums and has plenty of exhibits that will fascinate kids, including ancient artifacts and famous paintings.
4. Visit the Palace of Versailles: The opulent palace and its gardens offer plenty of opportunities to learn about French history and architecture.
5. Enjoy the beaches of the French Riviera: The Mediterranean coast has numerous beaches that are perfect for families to relax and play.
6. Go skiing in the French Alps: France is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, and skiing in the Alps is an unforgettable experience for families.
7. Explore the Loire Valley: The Loire Valley is dotted with historic chateaux, picturesque villages, and scenic cycling paths that are perfect for family outings.
8. Visit a local market: French markets offer an abundance of delicious foods and fresh produce, and kids will love trying new foods and experiencing local culture.
9. Attend a festival or event: France hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Tour de France, the Cannes Film Festival, and the Christmas markets, that offer unique cultural experiences for families.
10. Take a boat tour: France has numerous waterways, and taking a boat tour is a great way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions from a different perspective.

Looking for Unique Things to Do in France With Kids? Read our guide.

Where to Go on Your France Family Holidays

France is a beautiful country that you should explore. Here are some top destinations to visit on your France family holidays:

1. Paris: The capital city is a must-visit destination for families, with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, as well as numerous parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants.
2. Disneyland Paris: Located just outside of Paris, Disneyland Paris is a popular destination for families with its numerous attractions, entertainment shows, and parades.
3. French Riviera: The Mediterranean coast has plenty of beaches, water sports, and family-friendly resorts that are perfect for a relaxing family vacation.
4. Loire Valley: The Loire Valley is dotted with historic chateaux, charming villages, and scenic cycling paths that are ideal for family outings.
5. Normandy: Normandy has numerous historic sites and museums that offer opportunities for families to learn about World War II and the Normandy invasion.
6. Brittany: Brittany has plenty of seaside resorts, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities that are perfect for family vacations.
7. French Alps: The French Alps are home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, and skiing in the Alps is a great family activity.
8. Bordeaux: The Bordeaux region is known for its wine and food, and families can enjoy exploring the city’s historic sites and tasting local delicacies.
9. Mont-Saint-Michel: This iconic island is home to a historic abbey and offers a unique and memorable experience for families.
10. Strasbourg: Located on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg has a charming old town, a picturesque river, and plenty of cultural attractions that are perfect for family outings.

Learn more about the best Places to Visit in France With Family

Where to Stay During Your France Family Holidays

Here are some options for where to stay in France with kids:

1. Family-friendly hotels: Many hotels in France offer family-friendly amenities like kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and playgrounds, making them ideal for families.
2. Vacation rentals: Renting a villa or an apartment can be a great option for families who want more space and privacy. Many vacation rentals offer amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.
3. Camping: Camping is a popular option for families in France, and numerous campsites throughout the country offer activities and facilities for kids.
4. Resorts: France has many family-friendly resorts that offer a wide range of activities, such as skiing in the Alps or enjoying water sports on the French Riviera.
5. Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts are a great way to experience local culture and cuisine, and many B&Bs in France offer family-friendly amenities like high chairs and cribs.
6. Farm stays: Staying on a farm can be a unique and educational experience for kids, and many farms in France offer activities like animal feeding and cheese making.
7. Castles: Staying in a castle can be a magical experience for kids, and numerous castle hotels throughout France offer family-friendly amenities and activities.
8. Hostels: Hostels can be a budget-friendly option for families, and many hostels in France offer private family rooms and common areas for socializing and playing games.
9. Treehouses: Staying in a treehouse can be a fun and unique experience for kids, and there are several treehouse accommodations throughout France.
10. House-sitting: House-sitting can be a great way for families to experience local culture and save on accommodations, and there are several websites that connect homeowners with house-sitters.

What to Eat in France With Kids

Here are some delicious French dishes that are kid-friendly and perfect for families:

1. Crêpes: Thin, sweet or savory pancakes that can be filled with anything from Nutella to ham and cheese.
2. Croissants: Buttery, flaky pastries that are perfect for breakfast or a snack.
3. Baguette sandwiches: Simple and delicious sandwiches made with a crusty baguette, butter, and ham or cheese.
4. Quiche: Savory pies made with eggs, cheese, and vegetables or meats, and can be served for lunch or dinner.
5. Ratatouille: A flavorful vegetable stew made with tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, onions, and peppers that is a classic French dish.
6. Coq au vin: A classic French stew made with chicken, red wine, bacon, and mushrooms, served with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
7. Croque-monsieur: A French grilled cheese sandwich made with ham and Gruyere cheese.
8. Steak frites: A simple but delicious dish of steak and french fries that is a classic French staple.
9. Crème brûlée: A classic French dessert made with rich custard and caramelized sugar on top.
10. Chocolate mousse: A light and fluffy chocolate dessert that is a favorite of both kids and adults.

What to Wear in France

What to wear in France depends on the season and the region you will be visiting. Here are some general guidelines for what to wear in France:

1. Dress stylishly: French people are known for their fashion sense, so dressing well is important, especially in urban areas.
2. Dress modestly: While France is a fashion-forward country, it is also a conservative one, so avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially in religious sites or rural areas.
3. Dress for the season: France has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers, so dress accordingly.
4. Wear comfortable shoes: France is known for its beautiful cities and charming villages, so expect to do a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must.
5. Bring a raincoat or umbrella: Rain is common in France, especially in the spring and fall, so be prepared with a raincoat or umbrella.
6. Dress in layers: France’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers that you can add or remove as needed.
7. Avoid athletic wear: While it may be comfortable, athletic wear is generally not worn in public in France, except for at the gym.
8. Bring a scarf: A scarf is a versatile accessory that can be worn in a variety of ways and is useful for adding warmth or style to an outfit.
9. Consider cultural events: If you plan on attending cultural events, such as the opera or a theater performance, dress accordingly.
10. Be respectful: Finally, remember to be respectful of local customs and dress codes, especially in religious sites or formal events.

When to Go to France

France is a great travel destination year-round, but the best time to go depends on your interests and the region you plan to visit. Here are some tips on when to go for your France family holidays:

1. Summer (June – August): This is the peak season in France, with warm weather and long days. It’s a great time to visit the beaches and the French Riviera, as well as popular tourist destinations like Paris and the Loire Valley. Expect crowds and higher prices.
2. Spring (March – May): This is a great time to visit France, with mild weather and fewer crowds. The gardens are in bloom, and it’s a great time to explore the countryside and smaller towns. However, it can be rainy, so be prepared with a raincoat or umbrella.
3. Fall (September – November): This is another great time to visit France, with mild weather and fewer crowds. It’s a great time to visit wine regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy and to see fall foliage in places like the Alsace region.
4. Winter (December – February): This is the low season in France, with cold weather and short days. It’s a great time to visit ski resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees or to see Christmas markets in cities like Strasbourg and Paris. However, many tourist sites may be closed or have limited hours, and some outdoor activities may be unavailable.

Overall, the best time to visit France depends on your interests and preferences. Just be sure to book your accommodations and transportation well in advance, especially during peak season.

How Long to Stay in France

How long to stay for your France family holidays depends on your travel style, interests, and the places you plan to visit. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Short trip (3-5 days): If you only have a few days in France, consider focusing on one or two cities, such as Paris or Nice, and exploring the highlights. This will allow you to see the most famous sites and get a taste of French culture.
2. Medium trip (1-2 weeks): With 1-2 weeks, you can explore more of France and see different regions, such as the Loire Valley, Provence, and Normandy. You can also take your time in each place and explore the countryside and smaller towns.
3. Long trip (3+ weeks): With more than three weeks, you can see even more of France, including the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the French Riviera. You can also take the time to experience local culture, such as attending festivals or cooking classes.

Overall, the length of your stay in France depends on your interests and travel style. Just remember to factor in travel time and allow for some flexibility in your itinerary.

1-Week France Itinerary With Family

Here is a suggested 1-week itinerary for your France family holidays:

Day 1-2: Paris

• Spend two days exploring the famous landmarks of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and Montmartre.
• Take a boat tour of the Seine River, and visit a traditional French café or patisserie.

Day 3-4: Loire Valley

• Rent a car and drive to the Loire Valley, known for its castles and historic towns.
• Visit the Chateau de Chambord, the largest castle in the Loire Valley, and explore the charming town of Amboise.
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley for a unique perspective.

Day 5-6: Normandy

• Drive to Normandy and visit the D-Day landing beaches and the American Cemetery.
• Explore the charming town of Bayeux and its famous tapestry.
• Visit the stunning Mont-Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island.

Day 7: Versailles and Departure

• On your way back to Paris, visit the Palace of Versailles and its famous gardens.
• Spend some time in Paris for any last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
• Depart from Paris.

This itinerary allows for a mix of city sightseeing, historic landmarks, and natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion and family fun. Of course, you can adjust it based on your interests and preferences.

Check out our South of France Itinerary 7 Days or our Northern France Itinerary

2-Week France Itinerary With Family

Here is a suggested 2-week itinerary for a family trip to France:

Day 1-3: Paris

• Spend three days exploring the famous landmarks of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and Montmartre.
• Take a boat tour of the Seine River, and visit a traditional French café or patisserie.

Day 4-5: Normandy

• Rent a car and drive to Normandy.
• Visit the D-Day landing beaches and the American Cemetery.
• Explore the charming town of Bayeux and its famous tapestry.

Day 6-7: Mont-Saint-Michel and Brittany

• Visit the stunning Mont-Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island.
• Drive to Brittany and explore the walled town of Saint-Malo.
• Visit the megalithic stones of Carnac and the fishing village of Concarneau.

Day 8-10: Bordeaux and the Dordogne

• Drive to Bordeaux, the world-renowned wine region, and enjoy a wine tasting tour.
• Explore the medieval town of Saint-Emilion and its underground monuments.
• Drive to the Dordogne region and visit the prehistoric caves of Lascaux.

Day 11-13: Provence

• Drive to Provence and explore the charming hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon.
• Visit the lavender fields of Sault and the Roman amphitheater in Orange.
• Take a scenic drive through the Gorges du Verdon, the “Grand Canyon” of France.

Day 14: Nice and Departure

• Drive to Nice and spend the day exploring the charming Old Town, the Promenade des Anglais, and the beaches.
• Depart from Nice.

3-Week France Itinerary With Family

Here is a suggested 3-week itinerary for your France family holidays:

Day 1-3: Paris

• Spend three days exploring the famous landmarks of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and Montmartre.
• Take a boat tour of the Seine River, and visit a traditional French café or patisserie.

Day 4-5: Normandy

• Rent a car and drive to Normandy.
• Visit the D-Day landing beaches and the American Cemetery.
• Explore the charming town of Bayeux and its famous tapestry.

Day 6-7: Mont-Saint-Michel and Brittany

• Visit the stunning Mont-Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island.
• Drive to Brittany and explore the walled town of Saint-Malo.
• Visit the megalithic stones of Carnac and the fishing village of Concarneau.

Day 8-9: Loire Valley

• Drive to the Loire Valley and visit the Chateau de Chambord, the largest castle in the Loire Valley.
• Explore the charming town of Amboise and visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

Day 10-12: Bordeaux and the Dordogne

• Drive to Bordeaux, the world-renowned wine region, and enjoy a wine tasting tour.
• Explore the medieval town of Saint-Emilion and its underground monuments.
• Drive to the Dordogne region and visit the prehistoric caves of Lascaux.

Day 13-15: Provence

• Drive to Provence and explore the charming hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon.
• Visit the lavender fields of Sault and the Roman amphitheater in Orange.
• Take a scenic drive through the Gorges du Verdon, the “Grand Canyon” of France.

Day 16-17: French Riviera

• Drive to the French Riviera and explore the charming Old Towns of Nice and Antibes.
• Visit the glamorous town of Cannes and its famous film festival palace.
• Spend some time relaxing on the beaches and trying local seafood.

Day 18-20: French Alps

• Drive to the French Alps and enjoy some outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing.
• Visit the charming towns of Chamonix and Annecy.
• Take a cable car ride to the top of Aiguille du Midi for stunning views of Mont Blanc.

Day 21: Lyon and Departure

• Drive to Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, and enjoy some local cuisine.
• Visit the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière and the Old Town.
• Depart from Lyon.

How to Get Around France

France has a well-developed transportation system, making it easy to get around the country. Here are some options for getting around France:

1. Train: France has an extensive network of trains operated by the national railway company, SNCF. It’s a great way to travel between cities, especially for longer distances. The high-speed TGV train can take you from Paris to other cities in just a few hours.
2. Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for traveling around France, especially if you want to explore rural areas and smaller towns. Major car rental companies operate throughout the country, and the road system is generally good. However, keep in mind that driving in larger cities can be challenging and parking can be expensive.
3. Bus: Bus travel is also an option for getting around France, especially for shorter distances. Major bus companies like Flixbus operate throughout the country and offer affordable prices.
4. Metro and buses: In larger cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, the metro and bus systems are efficient and easy to use. In Paris, the metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city.
5. Bicycle: France is a great place for cycling, with many dedicated bike paths and scenic routes. You can rent a bike in many cities or bring your own.

Overall, the transportation options in France are reliable and efficient, so you can easily get around and explore the country.

How Much to Travel to France

The cost of traveling on your France family holidays can vary depending on your travel style, itinerary, and the time of year you visit. Here are some general estimates of expenses:

1. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose, the location, and the time of year. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around €20-€50 per night for a hostel or budget hotel, while mid-range hotels and vacation rentals can cost around €80-€150 per night.
2. Food and drinks: France is known for its culinary delights, and dining out can be a significant expense. On average, you can expect to spend around €20-€40 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. However, you can also find cheaper options, such as street food and local markets. Wine and beer are affordable in France, with a glass of wine or a beer costing around €4-€7.
3. Transportation: The cost of transportation can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled. Train tickets can be expensive, especially for high-speed trains, but booking in advance can help you save money. Bus travel and car rentals can be more affordable options, especially for shorter distances.
4. Activities and attractions: The cost of activities and attractions can vary depending on what you want to do and see. Many museums and historic sites have admission fees, which can range from a few euros to over €20 per person.

Overall, budget travelers can expect to spend around €50-€100 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around €100-€200 per day. Of course, these estimates are just a guide, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your itinerary and travel style.