Paris City Guide

If you’re dreaming of a family vacation that combines Parisian cafes, exploring historical landmarks, and immersing in cultural arts, then Paris is an absolute must for your travel bucket list! This enchanting city boasts iconic wonders like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, offering awe-inspiring sights and captivating experiences for all ages. From strolling through charming cafes to savoring delectable French cuisine, Paris presents a delightful culinary journey that will leave your taste buds craving for more. 

As the capital of France, Paris exudes an unparalleled charm, inviting you to embrace the rich French culture that has charmed audiences around the world through Hollywood and beyond. With a treasure trove of shopping opportunities and art museums like the Louvre, Paris promises an unforgettable and enriching family adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime for you and your little adventurers.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS FOR FAMILIES

1. Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon

Conveniently situated near Gare de Lyon station, this family-friendly hotel provides spacious rooms and a warm atmosphere. The hotel offers a kids’ play area, family-sized rooms, and a delicious breakfast buffet to start your day on a high note. This hotel was picked in consideration with the flustered moms trying to wrestle and stroller and day bags- Its central location allows you to explore Paris with ease and as long as you’re just exploring the area you can access your room in case of mishaps

2. Hotel Lutetia 

For a touch of luxury, the Hotel Lutetia is an excellent choice for families seeking elegance and comfort. This 5-star hotel offers connecting rooms and suites, making it ideal for larger families. The hotel’s prime location in Saint-Germain-des-Prés puts you close to many iconic attractions.

3. Citadines Les Halles Paris  

Situated in the heart of Paris, this aparthotel offers family-friendly apartments equipped with kitchenettes, perfect for those traveling with children or for preparing diet restricted meals. The hotel also provides baby cots and high chairs upon request so you won’t have to even imagine packing them. With Les Halles and the Louvre nearby, you’ll be surrounded by Parisian charm and the comforts of home.

4. Four Seasons Hotel George V

 Experience a lavish family stay at this prestigious 5-star hotel, located just steps away from the Champs-Élysées. The hotel offers spacious family suites, a Kids Club, and even tailor-made activities for your little ones. Enjoy the impeccable service and unforgettable views of the City of Lights. Enjoy your coffee looking out the window to the movie famous landmark and enjoy a grand stay at Hotel George V.

5. Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel 

For a fantastic view of the iconic Eiffel Tower, stay at the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel. The hotel features spacious family rooms with modern amenities, and the Eiffel Tower is just a short stroll away. The Trocadéro Gardens and Seine River are also within easy reach.

6. Hotel Regent’s Garden – Astote

This boutique hotel provides a cozy and family-friendly ambiance, complete with charming rooms and a lovely garden. It’s located in a peaceful area near Parc Monceau, perfect for strolling with the little ones. The hotel offers family rooms with extra beds and cribs as needed.

Whether you’re seeking magical adventures, luxury experiences, or convenient city stays, these family-friendly accommodations in Paris have you covered. Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones as you explore the City of Love together.

TOP TEN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS

1. Eiffel Tower 

Every visitor to Paris is looking forward to their first glimpse let alone visit to the Eiffel tower. A visit to Paris wouldn’t be complete without taking your kids to see the iconic Eiffel Tower. Climb to the top for stunning city views or have a picnic in the surrounding Champ de Mars gardens with some of your favorite paris snacks. This is the perfect opportunity to fill the gaps in your vacation photo album.

Photo: www.trolleytours.com

2. Disneyland Paris

Treat your little ones to a magical day at Disneyland Paris, where they can meet their favorite Disney characters, enjoy thrilling rides, and immerse themselves in the enchanting world of fairy tales. Showcase The World Travel has a long history of Disney bookings, so making such arrangements will ensure a magical day of Disney Parisian magic.

3. Louvre Museum

Introduce your kids to art and history at the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most iconic displays of art and culture. Marvel at famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and discover ancient artifacts that will captivate young minds. If you have a little aspiring artist, this is the perfect chance to live out their main character artist moment with a walk through of some of the world’s most famous pieces.  

4. Jardin des Plantes

In the middle of the city of love, there is a lush garden with an added twist of history inside. Explore the beautiful Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden with a zoo and natural history museum. Your kids will love seeing animals and learning about the wonders of nature among the meandering paths of the Paris Botanical Gardens. 

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5. Boat Cruise on the Seine River 

It’s one thing to walk through the city of Paris, and another to float through it. Hop aboard a Seine River cruise to experience the city from a different perspective. Enjoy a leisurely ride and pass by iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Musée d’Orsay all from the soothing current of your boat ride. Take a different pace during your site seeing rides in France and go with the flow so to speak with a Cruise on the Seine River.  

6. Parc de la Villette

 Head to Parc de la Villette, a sprawling park with playgrounds, themed gardens, and open spaces to get the energy out of the kids that were cooped up in the hotel room for just a bit too long. The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie nearby offers interactive exhibits for curious young minds that are a bit too old to marvel at the themed bushes and jungle gyms. No matter the age of your kids there is something for them to enjoy at one of Paris’ biggest green spaces.

7. Montmarte

Take a family stroll through the charming Montmartre neighborhood. Kids will love the artistic atmosphere, and you can visit the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur for panoramic views of the city. A family-friendly activity in Montmartre is visiting the Place du Tertre, a lively square where artists display their works and offer to create personalized portraits. Kids can have their portraits drawn or painted, creating a wonderful keepsake of their time in Paris.

8. Musée de la Magie

For a dose of magic and wonder, visit the Musée de la Magie (Magic Museum). Witness fascinating magic shows and discover the secrets behind famous illusions. Enjoy the wide eyed looks of your kids as they witness the slight of hand and optical illusions that are enjoyed worldwide.

9. Parc André Citroën

This modern park offers hot air balloon rides, play areas, and lush green spaces. It’s a great spot for family picnics and relaxation.

Photo courtesy of: www.makemytrip.com

 

10. Péniche Antipode

Step aboard this floating cultural center on the Seine River, where your kids can enjoy storytelling, theater, and creative workshops designed just for them. 

With these exciting activities, your family trip to Paris will be filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. From iconic landmarks to whimsical experiences, there’s something to delight every member of the family in the City of Light.

 

An image of a girl in purple dress extending her arm out to the Castle at Disneyland in Paris

Tips:

  • Use the Paris Museum Pass: Consider getting the Paris Museum Pass, which provides access to numerous museums and monuments, allowing you to skip the ticket lines and save time.
  • Visit Museums on Free Admission Days: Many Parisian museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Experience the Parisian Markets: Explore the local markets, such as Rue Mouffetard and Rue Cler, to savor fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other French delicacies. 
  • Picnic in the Parks: Paris provides beautiful parks and gardens, like Luxembourg Gardens and Tuileries Garden.
  • Beware of Pickpockets: Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like the Eiffel Tower and public transport. Use anti-theft bags or money belts for added security.
  • Opt for Walking Tours: Paris is a city best explored on foot. Join guided walking tours to discover hidden gems and learn about the city’s rich history from knowledgeable local guides.
  • Learn Metro Etiquette: When using the Metro, wait for passengers to exit before boarding, and stand on the right side of escalators to allow others to pass on the left.
  • Respect Quiet Hours: Parisians value their afternoon rest, so avoid making noise in residential areas during the afternoon (usually between 2 PM and 4 PM).
  • Try Local Cuisine: Venture beyond the typical tourist spots to experience authentic Parisian cuisine. Seek out neighborhood brasseries and cafes for a taste of traditional French dishes.
  • Validate Your Train Tickets: If you’re using paper tickets for the RER trains, remember to validate them at the machines before boarding to avoid potential fines.

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Who is Christina?

Christina Vieira, a Traveler, a Planner, and a Mom. She is also the owner of Showcase the World Travel, a modern travel agency that helps busy Moms take the vacation they deserve without adding “planning it all” to their to-do lists.  After all, Mom should get to enjoy their vacation too.

She specializes in Disney, Caribbean, Europe and has helped dozens of families have magical vacations that they will always remember. She loves traveling with her four-year-old daughter, Annabelle. Her favorite destinations include Walt Disney World, Wyoming, and Prague.

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If you are ready to have the family vacation you’ve been dreaming of, without spending time researching, planning, and making it happen, schedule a call today. I’m here to help busy working Moms plan, organize and book the perfect family vacation. With me, all you have to worry about is enjoying your well-earned time away with your family. If you are ready to stop trying to do everything on your own and see how I can help you schedule a complimentary trip planning session now.

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