Paris Family Vacation

Paris is a city that offers a wealth of attractions and activities for families, from world-famous museums and iconic landmarks to outdoor parks and playgrounds, as well as a diverse culinary scene and plenty of opportunities for shopping and sightseeing, making it an ideal destination for your France family holidays. Here are some reasons you should go on a Paris family vacation.

• Paris has an abundance of world-famous landmarks and attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, which offer both entertainment and educational opportunities for all ages.
• The city is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardin des Tuileries and the Luxembourg Gardens, where families can enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and relaxation.
• Paris offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals, with many options that cater specifically to families.
• The city has a diverse culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants and cafes serving delicious French cuisine as well as international fare that can appeal to picky eaters.
• Paris is well-connected with public transportation, making it easy to navigate the city and get around with children.
• Paris has many child-friendly museums, such as the Musée de la Magie (Museum of Magic) and the Musée de la Poupée (Doll Museum), which can be fun and engaging for children.
• The city also offers various entertainment options for families, such as amusement parks, aquariums, and boat tours on the Seine River.
• Paris is a walkable city, allowing families to explore its charming streets, neighborhoods, and markets on foot, creating unforgettable memories for everyone.

Things to Do in Paris With Kids

Here are some fun things to do on your Paris family vacation:

1. Visit the Eiffel Tower: This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the city, and children will love taking the elevator to the top and seeing Paris from above.
2. Explore the Louvre Museum: The Louvre is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums, and it offers plenty of opportunities for children to learn about art and history while having fun.
3. Play at Jardin des Tuileries: This beautiful park offers playgrounds, carousel rides, and plenty of space for children to run around and enjoy the outdoors.
4. Go to Disneyland Paris: Located just outside the city, Disneyland Paris is a fun and magical destination for children of all ages.
5. Visit the Natural History Museum: This museum has a vast collection of animal specimens, fossils, and interactive exhibits that will keep children entertained and engaged.
6. Take a boat tour on the Seine River: This is a great way for families to see the city and its landmarks from a different perspective while enjoying a relaxing boat ride.
7. Visit the Cité des Enfants: This interactive science museum is designed specifically for children and offers hands-on exhibits and activities to keep them entertained and learning.
8. See a show at the Theatre des Marionnettes: This puppet theater offers shows suitable for children of all ages and a unique and fun experience for the whole family.
9. Visit the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: This park is a great place to picnic, play, and enjoy nature, with plenty of space for children to run around and explore.
10. Take a chocolate and pastry tour: Paris is famous for its delicious chocolate and pastries, and children will love sampling the treats while learning about their history and production.

Where to Go on Your Paris Family Vacation

Here are some top destinations to visit in Paris with kids:

1. The Eiffel Tower: Kids will love taking the elevator to the top and seeing Paris from above.
2. Jardin des Tuileries: This beautiful park has playgrounds, a carousel, and plenty of space for children to run around and play.
3. Disneyland Paris: A fun and magical destination for kids of all ages, with rides, shows, and parades.
4. The Louvre Museum: The world’s largest museum offers plenty of opportunities for children to learn about art and history while having fun.
5. Natural History Museum: This museum has a vast collection of animal specimens, fossils, and interactive exhibits to keep children entertained and engaged.
6. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A great place to picnic, play, and enjoy nature, with plenty of space for children to run around and explore.
7. Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: This interactive science museum is designed specifically for children and offers hands-on exhibits and activities.
8. The Catacombs of Paris: A unique and spooky experience that older kids may enjoy, exploring the underground tunnels and bones.
9. Musée Grévin: A wax museum with lifelike figures of celebrities and historical figures, providing an interesting and fun experience.
10. The Palace of Versailles: A great opportunity for children to see the grandeur of the French royal court and the beautiful gardens.

Where to Stay in Paris With Kids

Here are some top neighborhoods to consider when looking for family-friendly accommodations in Paris:

1. Le Marais: This vibrant neighborhood in the center of Paris offers a variety of family-friendly apartments and hotels, as well as many restaurants, shops, and attractions.
2. Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Known for its charming streets and lively atmosphere, this neighborhood has many family-friendly hotels, apartments, parks, and playgrounds.
3. Montmartre: This historic neighborhood has a village-like feel, with plenty of family-friendly accommodations, outdoor cafes, and street performers.
4. Latin Quarter: This lively neighborhood is home to many universities, museums, and bookshops, making it a great place for families to stay and explore.
5. Eiffel Tower area: This area is perfect for families who want to be close to the city’s most iconic landmark, with plenty of hotels and apartments that offer views of the tower.
6. Champs-Élysées: This neighborhood has many luxury hotels and apartments, as well as high-end shops and restaurants, making it an excellent choice for families who want a more upscale experience.
7. Île de la Cité: Located in the heart of Paris, this island is home to many famous landmarks, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, and has many family-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and shops.
8. Left Bank: This area is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural institutions, such as the Musée d’Orsay, and offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations.
9. Canal Saint-Martin: This neighborhood has many trendy cafes, shops, and boutiques, as well as family-friendly accommodations, and is a great place for families who want to experience a more hip and trendy side of Paris.
10. La Villette: This neighborhood is home to many family-friendly attractions, such as the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, and offers many accommodations options suitable for families.

Family-Friendly Hotels in Paris

Here are some top family-friendly hotels in Paris:

1. Four Seasons Hotel George V: This luxurious hotel offers spacious family suites, a kids’ club, and a prime location near the Champs-Élysées.
2. Le Bristol Paris: This elegant hotel offers family-friendly suites, a rooftop pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
3. Shangri-La Hotel, Paris: This five-star hotel has spacious suites, a kids’ club, and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.
4. The Peninsula Paris: This grand hotel has family-friendly rooms and suites, a rooftop restaurant, and a full-service spa.
5. Hotel Lutetia: This historic hotel has spacious family suites, a kids’ club, and a location near many of Paris’s top attractions.
6. Hotel Bel Ami: This boutique hotel has family suites and a location near the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, with its many shops and restaurants.
7. Mandarin Oriental, Paris: This luxurious hotel has spacious family suites, a kids’ club, and a location near the Louvre Museum.
8. Hotel Esprit Saint Germain: This boutique hotel has family suites and a location near many of Paris’s top attractions, as well as a cozy lounge area and complimentary snacks.
9. Hotel du Louvre: This historic hotel has family-friendly rooms and suites, a location near the Louvre Museum, and an elegant restaurant.
10. Hotel Les Dames du Panthéon: This charming hotel has family-friendly rooms and a location near the Panthéon and the Luxembourg Gardens.

Where to Eat in Paris With Kids

Here are some restaurants to consider on your Paris family vacation:

1. Le Pain Quotidien: This bakery and cafe chain serves fresh, organic food and has several locations throughout Paris.
2. L’As du Fallafel: This popular restaurant in the Marais neighborhood serves delicious falafel and other Middle Eastern dishes.
3. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: This classic French bistro is known for its steak frites and has several locations throughout Paris.
4. La Crêperie de Josselin: This cozy restaurant in Montparnasse serves traditional French crepes and galettes.
5. Angelina: This elegant tea room serves delicious pastries, hot chocolate, and other sweet treats.
6. Berthillon: This famous ice cream shop on Île Saint-Louis offers a wide variety of delicious ice cream flavors.
7. Le Jardin d’Acclimatation: This amusement park in the Bois de Boulogne has several family-friendly restaurants, including a creperie and a pizzeria.
8. Les Deux Magots: This historic cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a great place for families to enjoy a coffee, croissant, or light meal.
9. Bouillon Chartier: This traditional Parisian restaurant offers affordable French cuisine in a beautiful Belle Époque setting.
10. Breizh Café: This trendy creperie in the Marais neighborhood offers a modern twist on traditional French crepes and galettes.

What to Wear in Paris

When it comes to dressing for Paris, it’s important to keep in mind the city’s reputation for being stylish and fashionable. Here are some tips on what to wear on your Paris family vacation:

1. Classic basics: Parisians are known for their love of classic, timeless pieces such as tailored blazers, trench coats, and crisp white shirts.
2. Dark colors: Black is a staple in Parisian wardrobes; darker colors such as navy and gray are also popular.
3. Scarves: A scarf is a versatile accessory that can be worn year-round in Paris and can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
4. Comfortable shoes: Paris is a city for walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Sneakers, loafers, and ankle boots are all popular choices.
5. Layers: The weather in Paris can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to dress in layers, such as a sweater or cardigan over a shirt or blouse.
6. Simple jewelry: Parisians tend to favor simple, delicate jewelry such as thin gold chains, small earrings, and delicate rings.
7. Designer handbags: Designer handbags are common in Paris, so consider investing in a classic, timeless style that will last for years.
8. Sunglasses: Sunglasses are not only a practical accessory in the summer months but can also add glamour to any outfit.
9. Dressier outfits: Parisians tend to dress up a bit more than Americans, so consider packing a dress or a nice blouse and skirt for evenings out.
10. Confidence: Ultimately, the most important thing to wear in Paris is confidence. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and stylish, and don’t be afraid to take some fashion risks!

When to Go to Paris

Paris is a great destination to visit year-round, but the best time to go depends on your personal preferences and interests. Here are some things to consider when deciding when to visit Paris:

1. Weather: The most popular time to visit Paris is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and prices for hotels and attractions can be higher.
2. Crowds: If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting Paris during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather may be slightly cooler, but the crowds will be smaller, and prices may be more affordable.
3. Festivals and events: Paris is known for its many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fête de la Musique in June, Bastille Day in July, and the Christmas markets in December. Consider planning your trip around one of these events if you’re interested in experiencing Parisian culture.
4. Museums and attractions: Some of Paris’s most popular museums and attractions, such as the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, can have long lines and wait times, especially during peak tourist season. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or purchasing tickets in advance to avoid crowds.
5. Budget: The cost of travel to Paris can vary depending on the time of year. Prices for flights and hotels are typically highest during the summer months, while shoulder season or winter travel can often offer better deals.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Paris depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider the above factors when planning your trip, and choose the time of year that will best suit your needs.

How Long to Stay in Paris

The amount of time on a Paris family vacation depends on your personal preferences and interests, but generally speaking, a minimum of three to four days is recommended to see the city’s main attractions and get a taste of Parisian culture. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how long to stay in Paris:

1. Sightseeing: Paris is home to many world-famous landmarks, museums, and cultural institutions, so if you’re interested in seeing as much as possible, you may want to spend a week or more in the city. If you’re short on time, consider prioritizing the must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.
2. Neighborhoods: Paris is divided into many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. If you want to explore several different areas, you may want to stay for a week or more.
3. Day trips: Paris is a great base for exploring other parts of France, such as the Palace of Versailles or the Champagne region. If you plan on taking day trips, consider adding a few extra days to your itinerary.
4. Relaxation: Paris is also a great city to relax and soak up the atmosphere simply. If you want to take your time, enjoy leisurely meals at cafes, and people-watch in parks, you may want to stay for a week or more.

3-Day Paris Itinerary With Family

Here’s a sample 3-day itinerary for your Paris family vacation:

Day 1:

• Morning: Visit the Eiffel Tower and take in the views from the top.
• Afternoon: Take a river cruise along the Seine River to see Paris from a different perspective.
• Evening: Explore the neighborhood of Montmartre, known for its charming streets and artistic history.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Louvre Museum and see the famous works of art like the Mona Lisa and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
• Afternoon: Head to the Jardin des Tuileries, a beautiful park next to the Louvre, to relax and enjoy some family time.
• Evening: Walk around the Champs-Élysées and visit the Arc de Triomphe, then enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit the Palace of Versailles, located just outside of Paris, and take a tour of the opulent palace and its grounds.
• Afternoon: Return to Paris and visit the Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
• Evening: Take a stroll along the Left Bank and enjoy dinner at a local brasserie.

Note: This itinerary can be customized based on your family’s interests and preferences and may include additional activities or attractions. It’s also important to note that some of these attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, may require advanced ticket reservations to avoid long lines.

1-Week Paris Family Vacation Itinerary

Here’s a sample 1-week itinerary for Paris that is family-friendly:

Day 1:

• Morning: Visit the Eiffel Tower and take in the views from the top.
• Afternoon: Take a river cruise along the Seine River to see Paris from a different perspective.
• Evening: Explore the neighborhood of Montmartre, known for its charming streets and artistic history.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Louvre Museum and see the famous works of art like the Mona Lisa and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
• Afternoon: Head to the Jardin des Tuileries, a beautiful park next to the Louvre, to relax and enjoy some family time.
• Evening: Walk around the Champs-Élysées and visit the Arc de Triomphe, then enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit the Palace of Versailles, located just outside of Paris, and take a tour of the opulent palace and its grounds.
• Afternoon: Return to Paris and visit the Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
• Evening: Take a stroll along the Left Bank and enjoy dinner at a local brasserie.

Day 4:

• Morning: Visit the Musée d’Orsay, home to an impressive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art.
• Afternoon: Explore the Latin Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and historic university buildings.
• Evening: Attend a performance at the Opéra Garnier, a beautiful theater in the heart of Paris.

Day 5:

• Morning: Visit the Catacombs of Paris, an underground maze of tunnels filled with human bones and skulls.
• Afternoon: Explore the Marais district, known for its fashionable boutiques and historic architecture.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local bistro and take a night stroll around the Île de la Cité.

Day 6:

• Morning: Visit the Musée de l’Armée, a museum dedicated to the history of the French military.
• Afternoon: Take a family-friendly cooking class to learn how to make classic French dishes like croissants or macarons.
• Evening: Attend a performance at the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret.

Day 7:

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Palace of Fontainebleau, a stunning palace located about an hour from Paris.
• Afternoon: Return to Paris and visit the Luxembourg Gardens, a beautiful park with a large playground and puppet theater.
• Evening: Enjoy a final dinner in Paris at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cozy bistro.

How to Get Around Paris

There are several ways to get around Paris:

1. Metro: Paris has an extensive and efficient metro system, with 16 lines and over 300 stations. It’s the fastest way to get around the city and can take you to most major attractions.
2. Bus: Paris also has a comprehensive bus network that covers the entire city, with over 60 lines. Buses can be slower than the metro, but they offer a great way to see the city.
3. RER: The RER is a regional train system that connects Paris with the suburbs and the city’s major airports. It’s faster than the metro and can be useful for visiting attractions outside of the city center.
4. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Paris but can be expensive, especially during rush hour. It’s also important to make sure you’re taking a licensed taxi.
5. Bike: Paris has a bike-sharing system called Velib’, with over 20,000 bikes available for rent. It’s a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time.
6. Walking: Paris is a very walkable city, and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is also a great way to discover the city’s hidden gems and charming neighborhoods.

Note: If you’re planning on using public transportation, it’s a good idea to buy a “Paris Visite” pass or a “Navigo” pass, which offer unlimited rides on the metro, bus, RER, and some other forms of transportation for a set period of time.

How Much to Travel to Paris

The cost of your Paris family vacation can vary widely depending on several factors, such as:

• Time of year: high season (summer and holidays) tends to be more expensive than the low season.
• Accommodation: the cost of hotels, vacation rentals, and Airbnb can vary depending on location, size, and amenities.
• Food: dining out can be expensive in Paris, especially if you’re dining at high-end restaurants or cafes.
• Transportation: the cost of flights, trains, and other forms of transportation can vary depending on where you’re coming from and how you plan to get around in Paris.
• Attractions: entrance fees to popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre can add up quickly.

With all that being said, a rough estimate for a budget traveler would be around €70-€100 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around €150-€250 per day. For luxury travelers, the cost can easily exceed €500 per day.

It’s important to note that these estimates are just guidelines, and your actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, preferences, and the exchange rate at the time of your visit.