Planning a family trip to Paris is a thrilling yet delicate balancing act. From finding the perfect accommodations to making sure there are enough kid-friendly activities, a successful family vacation in the City of Light requires thoughtful preparation. Here’s a guide to help you plan an unforgettable trip for the whole family, with recommendations for family-friendly hotels, museums, and attractions that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
Paris boasts a range of hotels that cater to families, ensuring that parents and children both have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Some top family-friendly hotels include:
- Le Relais Saint-Germain: Situated in the heart of Paris, this charming hotel is ideal for families who want easy access to major attractions like the Luxembourg Gardens. The hotel offers family suites, high chairs, and a welcoming atmosphere for children.
- Hotel Le Bristol: A luxury option that goes all out for families. Le Bristol has spacious family rooms, a kids’ club with activities, and even a rooftop garden for children to explore. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a blend of comfort and elegance.
- Novotel Paris Les Halles: Located near the Louvre, this modern hotel offers rooms with pull-out beds, and even provides free accommodation for children under 16. It’s a great base for exploring the city on foot, with many family-friendly attractions nearby.
When booking, check whether the hotel offers amenities like baby equipment, kid-friendly meals, or babysitting services to make your stay even easier.
Paris is known for its world-class museums, and many are designed to captivate younger visitors as well as adults.
- Louvre Museum: Home to the famous Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces, the Louvre can be overwhelming for younger children. However, the museum offers a family-friendly experience with interactive exhibits and themed tours. Kids can embark on a treasure hunt through the museum, making the visit more engaging.
- Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a former train station, the Musée d’Orsay is easier to navigate than the Louvre and offers a fantastic collection of Impressionist art. It’s less crowded and features some art that children may find more accessible, like Monet’s large, colorful works.
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: This is the ultimate museum for kids in Paris. Situated in Parc de la Villette, it’s full of hands-on exhibits related to science, technology, and space. There’s a dedicated area for younger children, including interactive displays and a planetarium.
While the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the most famous Parisian landmark, there are several other activities that kids will love:
- Eiffel Tower: A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Children will enjoy the panoramic views from the top, and the elevator ride up is an adventure in itself. For a special treat, consider booking a lunch at one of the tower’s restaurants.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A lovely green space perfect for a family picnic, this park has playgrounds, waterfalls, and a lake where kids can feed ducks. It’s one of the less touristy spots in Paris, providing a calm retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Jardin d’Acclimatation: Located in the Bois de Boulogne, this amusement park is designed for young children. With gentle rides, a petting zoo, and various interactive attractions, it’s an ideal place for a relaxed day of fun.
- Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur: The iconic hill of Montmartre offers a family-friendly adventure. You can either climb the 300 steps to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica or take the funicular for an easy ride to the top. Once there, enjoy stunning views of Paris and the charming streets of the artist district.
Paris offers a range of dining options suitable for families. Many bistros and cafés cater to young ones with menus designed for children. Look out for places that offer “plats enfants,” or kids’ menus, where you can try classic French dishes like croque-monsieur or steak frites in a smaller portion.
For something a bit more unique, take the family to Angelina, famous for its hot chocolate, or Le Petit Cler, a laid-back spot with a variety of kid-friendly options. You can also visit local markets like Marché des Enfants Rouges, where kids can explore food stalls and try fresh, delicious French snacks.
While it’s tempting to cram everything into a few days, it’s better to pace your visit to keep everyone in the family happy. Plan your days around a central area to reduce the time spent traveling between attractions. Consider grouping activities by neighborhood spend one day exploring the Louvre and nearby spots, and another day at the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. Leave room for downtime at parks or cafes to recharge, especially for younger children.
A family trip to Paris can be magical when well-planned, ensuring both children and adults can enjoy the city’s charm. With family-friendly accommodations, engaging museums, fun attractions, and delicious food, Paris is the perfect destination for families looking to explore the wonders of this historic city. With thoughtful planning and a flexible schedule, you’ll create lasting memories that everyone can cherish for years to come.
