France with Kids: A Family Travel Guide

France is a dream destination for many, but it’s an incredibly magical place to visit with children. From Paris’s charm to the French Riviera’s beauty, there’s something for every family to enjoy.

The country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect spot for creating unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and prepare for a trip to France with kids!

Is It Easy to Travel France with Kids?

• Transport: Public transit is stroller-friendly and budget-friendly.

• Stay: Choose hotels with cribs, play areas, and family rooms.

• Dining: Kids are welcome, but dinner is late. Look for child-friendly menus.

• Pacing: Plan rest time and visit parks.

• Language: Learn basic phrases like “Bonjour” and “Merci” for a smoother trip.

When to Travel France with Kids

• Spring (Mar-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds; Easter rush.

• Summer (Jun-Aug): Great for beaches & festivals, but busy & pricey.

• Fall (Sep-Nov): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, better deals.

• Winter (Dec-Feb): Quiet, budget-friendly, with Christmas markets & skiing.

How Long to Travel France with Kids?

Here are some suggested itineraries:

• 1 week: Focus on one or two destinations, such as Paris and Disneyland Paris or the French Riviera.

• 2 weeks: Combine a city break (Paris, Lyon) with a beach destination (Normandy, Riviera) and a few days in a smaller town or the countryside.

• 3+ weeks: Explore multiple regions, such as Paris, the Loire Valley, Provence, and the Alps. Rent a car for greater flexibility.

Remember to build in rest days and don’t try to cram too much into your schedule.

How to Get Around France with Kids?

France has an extensive and efficient transportation network, making it easy to get around with children. Here’s an overview of the main options:

• Consider getting a Navigo pass for unlimited rides on the metro, RER (commuter trains), and buses. Strollers must be folded on the metro.

• Make sure to request any necessary child safety seats or equipment when booking a taxi or an Uber.

Where to Stay in France with Kids?

France offers many family-friendly accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some top picks:

Paris

• aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre: Apartments with kitchenettes, a playroom, and a garden in the charming Montmartre neighbourhood.

• Novotel Paris Les Halles: Modern rooms, a kids’ play area, and a convenient location near the Louvre and Notre-Dame.

French Riviera

• Résidence Lagrange Vacances Le Lido: Spacious apartments with a pool, kids’ club, and direct beach access in Cagnes-sur-Mer.

• Club Med Opio en Provence: An all-inclusive resort with a kids’ club, sports facilities, and daily activities in a picturesque setting.

Dordogne Valley

• Camping Le Capeyrou: Rustic cabins and mobile homes with a water park, mini-golf, and a kids’ club in Beynac-et-Cazenac.

French Alps

• Les Chalets d’Angèle: Cozy chalets with kitchenettes, a pool, a sauna, and ski-in/ski-out access in Châtel.

• CGH Résidences & Spas Le Cristal de l’Alpe: Stylish apartments with an indoor pool, a spa, and a kids’ playroom in Alpe d’Huez.

No matter where you choose to stay, look for amenities like family rooms, child-friendly décor, on-site play areas, and kids’ activities to keep your little ones happy and entertained.

Top Places to Visit in France with Kids

France is packed with amazing attractions that will delight kids and adults alike. Here are some must-visit spots:

Paris

• Eiffel Tower: Ride the elevator to the top for panoramic city views. Buy tickets online to skip the long queues.

• Louvre Museum: See iconic artworks like the Mona Lisa. The Louvre offers family trails and workshops for kids.

• Luxembourg Gardens: Let kids run around, play on vintage sailboats, and watch puppet shows in this lovely park.

• Disneyland in Paris: Located about 32 kilometers East of Paris, this entertainment resort is a MUST-SEE for kids! It’s a dreamland of fun for them. Spend about a day visiting the parks and the studios.

• Futuroscope: Futuroscope is one of France’s top amusement parks, known for futuristic attractions, 3D and 4D rides, giant screen films, shows, and family-friendly fun in a green setting.

Normandy

• D-Day Beaches: Learn about WWII history at Omaha Beach, the Normandy American Cemetery, and the Caen Memorial Museum.

• Mont-Saint-Michel: Explore this stunning island abbey and watch the tides come in and out. Time your visit for low tide to walk across the sand.

Loire Valley

• Château de Chambord: Marvel at this grandiose Renaissance castle with a double helix staircase and elaborately decorated rooftop.

• Château du Clos Lucé: Visit Leonardo da Vinci’s former home and see models of his inventions in the garden.

French Alps

• Chamonix: Take the cable car up to the Aiguille du Midi for breathtaking Mont Blanc views. In winter, go skiing or snowboarding.

• Annecy: Stroll around the picturesque Old Town, cycle along Lake Annecy, and try local specialties like tartiflette.

Don’t forget to check out kid-friendly attractions in whatever destinations you visit. Many cities have zoos, aquariums, science museums, and amusement parks perfect for families.

Kid-Friendly Eateries and Restaurants in France

Eating out with kids in France is a breeze. Most restaurants welcome children and offer kids’ menus or smaller portions. Here are some types of eateries that are particularly family-friendly:

Crêperies

• La Crêperie de Josselin (Paris) – Famous for authentic Brittany-style crêpes, cozy ambiance, and a welcoming atmosphere for families.

• BREIZH Café (Multiple Locations, Paris) – Serves high-quality galettes and crêpes with fresh ingredients, offering a casual and family-friendly setting.

• Chez Nicos (Paris) – A small, budget-friendly crêperie on Rue Mouffetard with a variety of sweet and savory options, including vegetarian choices.

Brasseries

• Le Refuge des Fondus (Paris) – A fun, interactive fondue experience where kids can enjoy dipping bread and cheese in a lively atmosphere.

• Les Vitelloni (Paris) – An Italian-inspired brasserie with delicious pasta and pizza, perfect for families looking for a relaxed meal.

• Quai Ouest (Saint-Cloud, near Paris) – A spacious riverside brasserie with beautiful views and a kid-friendly Sunday lunch menu.

Bakeries and Pastry Shops

• Pick up fresh baguettes, croissants, and pastries for a tasty breakfast or snack on the go.

• Let kids choose their own treats like pain au chocolat, brioche, or colorful macarons.

Outdoor Markets

• France’s open-air food markets are a feast for the senses. Here, you can sample local specialties, buy picnic supplies, and let kids practice their French.

• Look for kid-approved favorites like saucisson (cured sausage), goat cheese, and fresh fruit.

Packing for a Trip to France with Kids

Packing strategically can make your trip much smoother. Here are some essentials to include:

• Layers for changing weather (light jacket, sweater, rain gear)

• Stroller or baby carrier

• Electrical adapters and chargers

Try to pack light and leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs. Many accommodations in France have laundry facilities, so you don’t need to pack outfits for every day.

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey. 

Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support 

• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process 

• Real-Time Tracking and Updates 

• Transparent Communication 

• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

Q1. How to plan France with kids?

Start by deciding on your travel dates, budget, and must-see destinations. Research transportation options, accommodations, and activities in each place. Book flights and any tickets or tours in advance to secure your spots.

Q2. Where to take kids in France for free?

France offers many free attractions for kids, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, street performers at the Pompidou Center, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Many museums, like the Louvre, offer free entry for children under 18.

Q3. Which month is best for kids in France?

• Jun-Aug: Warmest for beaches & activities, but busy & expensive.

• Apr-May & Sep-Oct: Mild weather, fewer crowds, ideal for sightseeing.

• Dec: Magical for Christmas markets & festivities.

• Jan-Mar: Best for skiing.

Q4. How many days in France are enough?

Most travelers recommend 7-10 days to explore regions like Paris, the Loire Valley, or the French Riviera. Two weeks offer a more leisurely pace with a wider range of destinations. With 3 weeks or more, you can explore much of the country or even nearby countries.

Q5. Which is the off-season in France?

The off-season in France is from November to March (excluding holidays), with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for lower prices and unique experiences like Christmas markets or skiing.

Q6. Is it worth it to go to France with kids?

Absolutely! France is an incredibly enriching destination for children. They’ll be exposed to a new language, culture, history, and cuisine. Many attractions and activities are designed with kids in mind, from hands-on museums to adventure parks.