Paris is a magical destination for families, offering an incredible mix of history, culture, and fun-filled activities for kids. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another adventure, these expert tips will help you make the most of your family vacation in the City of Light.
1. Stay in a Family-Friendly Paris Apartment Rental
Choosing a Paris apartment rental instead of a hotel provides your family with extra space, a kitchen for home-cooked meals, and a cozy living room to unwind after sightseeing. Plus, many rentals offer free WiFi and international phone calls, adding extra convenience.
2. Choose an Apartment Near Public Gardens
Green spaces are limited in Paris, but they offer a great place for kids to run, play, and enjoy picnics after a day of exploring. Some of the best family-friendly parks include:
- Champs de Mars (7th Arrondissement): Located near the Eiffel Tower, this vast park is perfect for kids to play while parents enjoy the stunning views.
- Luxembourg Gardens (6th Arrondissement): One of the most famous parks in Paris, featuring playgrounds, a pond for sailing toy boats, and even puppet shows.
For example, our St. Julien apartment is located just across from the Champs de Mars, offering a balcony with breathtaking Eiffel Tower views.
3. Plan One Major Activity Per Day
Avoid burnout by scheduling one big attraction per day and keeping the afternoon more relaxed. Great options include:
- Seine River Cruise: A scenic boat ride offering a unique view of Paris.
- Exploring Local Markets: Kids love discovering French pastries and fresh produce.
- Picnicking in the Park: A fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy local flavors.
Remember: Less is more! Overloading the itinerary with too many museums or historical sites can leave little ones exhausted.
4. Make Grocery Shopping an Adventure
Visiting a local supermarket or bakery is a cultural experience kids will love! From trying to pronounce French words on packaging to choosing from a variety of delicious cookies, food shopping in Paris is both educational and fun.
5. Teach Kids Basic French Etiquette
French culture values politeness, so teaching your kids to say “Bonjour, Monsieur” or “Bonjour, Madame” when greeting people will go a long way. Younger children often greet adults with cheek kisses, while older kids and adults typically shake hands.
6. Keep Your Family’s Information Handy
Always ensure that each family member carries a note with the address and phone number of your accommodation. In case of separation, this small precaution can be a lifesaver. One family staying at Chateauneuf Paris apartment learned this the hard way when their children got lost while taking separate taxis!
7. Introduce Paris Through Books & Movies
Make Paris come alive before you even arrive by introducing your children to its famous landmarks through literature and films:
- For younger kids: Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (set near the Eiffel Tower)
- For older kids: The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo or The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
- Movie night idea: Watch animated or live-action films set in Paris to build excitement before the trip.
8. Emergency Numbers to Know
Being prepared is key! Keep these essential contacts handy:
- Emergency Services (Fire, Police, Medical): Dial 112
- SOS Médecins (House-Call Doctor Service): Dial 3624
- American Hospital in Paris: +33 1 46 41 25 19
Enjoy an Unforgettable Family Vacation in Paris!
By following these tips, your family will enjoy a seamless, exciting, and stress-free trip to Paris. Bon voyage!
We leave in less than three weeks and can’t wait! Our family of six (four kids, twelve and under) decided that an apartment would probably be the way to go…we’ve booked through your firm and are so excited. We’ll take your advice to heart, and maybe have a little to add when we get home. Thanks so much for your lovely blog!