Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is a magical destination for families. We chose to do a two-day trip to Paris as an extension of our Alps trip because our kids really wanted to go to Disneyland Paris and had been asking to see the Eiffel Tower. We took a train from Geneva to Paris, which was a seamless and convenient way to travel. European train networks make it easy to move between major cities, offering high-speed rail options that are comfortable and efficient. Whether you're planning a trip to Paris for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, the city offers a wealth of kid-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, and opportunities for adventure. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this guide will help you with Paris trip planning, including things to do, what to see, where to stay, a day trip to Disneyland Paris, tips for visiting during Christmas time, and what to pack for your trip. Planning a Trip to Paris with Kids Best Time to Visit Paris is a fantastic destination year-round, but the best time for a family trip to Paris depends on your preferences: Spring (March-May): Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures range from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C), with occasional rain showers. Gardens are in full bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit outdoor spaces like Jardin du Luxembourg. Be prepared for some light rain by packing a compact umbrella and waterproof jackets. Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C), with longer daylight hours. Warm temperatures and outdoor activities abound, but expect larger crowds at top attractions. Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid long lines and heat. Autumn (September-November): Cooler temperatures from 45°F to 68°F (7°C to 20°C), with fewer crowds. Fewer tourists, pleasant weather, and stunning fall foliage make this a great time to visit. Many museums and attractions are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Winter (December-February): Cold temperatures range from 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C), with a chance of snow, especially in January. Christmas in Paris is a magical experience, with festive decorations, holiday markets, and ice skating rinks. Bundle up for the chilly weather, and enjoy seasonal treats like hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts. How to Find Round-Trip Flights to Paris To get the best deals on round-trip flights to Paris, book in advance, use flight comparison websites, and consider flying into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports. Budget airlines and off-season travel can help you find a Paris cheap trip. Consider flying mid-week rather than weekends to secure better fares, and set up price alerts on travel websites. How to Find Round-Trip Flights to Paris To get the best deals on round-trip flights to Paris, book in advance, use flight comparison websites, and consider flying into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports. Budget airlines and off-season travel can help you find a Paris cheap trip. Consider flying mid-week rather than weekends to secure better fares, and set up price alerts on travel websites. Train Travel to Paris If you're traveling from other European cities, high-speed trains offer a convenient way to reach Paris: From London: Take the Eurostar from St. Pancras to Gare du Nord in just over 2 hours. From Brussels: The Thalys train gets you to Paris in about 1.5 hours. From Amsterdam: Travel to Paris in just over 3 hours via Thalys. From Geneva: The TGV Lyria offers a smooth 3-hour journey. Trains are comfortable, efficient, and often offer discounts for families, making them a great option for Paris-bound travelers. Where to Stay in Paris with Kids Choosing the right accommodation is crucial when traveling with kids. Some of the best areas for families include: Le Marais: Central location with parks, shops, and family-friendly restaurants. Walkable streets make it easy to explore with a stroller. Recommended hotels: Hôtel de Josephine Bonaparte (boutique charm), Pavillon de la Reine (luxury with a courtyard), and Novotel Paris Les Halles (modern and spacious for families). Saint-Germain-des-Prés: A charming neighborhood with easy access to attractions and plenty of cafes, perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast with kids. Recommended hotels: Hotel Lutetia (5-star luxury with kid-friendly services), Hôtel Recamier (boutique style with a quiet atmosphere), and Hotel Bel Ami (contemporary design with family suites). Near the Eiffel Tower (7th Arrondissement): Ideal for first-time visitors who want to stay close to major sights, with scenic views and green spaces nearby. Recommended hotels: Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel (modern, great views), Le Cinq Codet (luxury boutique hotel), and Hôtel La Comtesse (elegant with Eiffel Tower views). Montmartre: A picturesque area with a village-like atmosphere and stunning views. Though it has some steep streets, it offers beautiful places for kids to explore. Recommended hotels: Maison Souquet (luxury with unique decor), Terrass" Hotel (rooftop views and family rooms), and Hôtel des Arts Montmartre (affordable and cozy). Near the Main Train Station (Gare de Lyon & Gare du Nord): If you're taking day trips like we did, this location is ideal. We stayed at the Courtyard Marriott near the main train station, which was perfect for our trip to Disneyland Paris. The hotel had spacious suites at reasonable prices, making it a great option for families needing extra space. Additionally, staying near the train station made it easy to navigate the city and take excursions without hassle. Many hotels and vacation rentals cater to families with kid-friendly amenities like connecting rooms, kitchenettes, and play areas. If you prefer an apartment, platforms like Airbnb offer great options for families needing extra space. Look for accommodations near metro stations to make getting around easier. Things to Do in Paris for Kids Iconic Landmarks & Attractions Eiffel Tower: Kids will love riding the elevator to the top for panoramic city views. There’s also a playground nearby at Champ de Mars where they can burn off energy. Be sure to book Eiffel Tower tickets far in advance, as they sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Louvre Museum: While the Louvre can be overwhelming, kids will enjoy the Egyptian section, medieval moat, and seeing the Mona Lisa. Consider a family-friendly tour to keep kids engaged. Notre-Dame Cathedral: Although the interior is under renovation, the nearby gardens and Île de la Cité offer a great walking experience. Look for storytelling tours that make history fun for children. Arc de Triomphe: One of Paris’s most famous monuments, offering a fantastic view of the Champs-Élysées from the top. Kids will enjoy the climb and the breathtaking cityscape. Jardin du Luxembourg: This park has a playground, carousel, and a pond where kids can sail toy boats. Pony rides and puppet shows are additional highlights. Seine River Cruise: A boat ride along the Seine is a relaxing way to see the city's highlights without tiring out little legs. Opt for a hop-on-hop-off boat service for extra flexibility. Nike Store on Champs-Élysées: Our kids loved creating custom t-shirts here, making for a unique and memorable souvenir from Paris. Fun Things to Do in Paris with Kids Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: France’s largest science museum, featuring hands-on exhibits for kids, a planetarium, and a submarine. Parc Zoologique de Paris: A well-maintained zoo with diverse animals and interactive exhibits that make learning about wildlife exciting. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A beautiful park with playgrounds, waterfalls, and suspension bridges, perfect for adventurous kids. Grevin Wax Museum: A fun place for kids to see life-like wax figures of their favorite celebrities and historical figures. Chocolate and Pastry Tours: Kid-friendly walking tours allow families to sample French chocolates and pastries while learning about local traditions. Paris with Kids at Christmas Visiting Paris with kids during Christmas is nothing short of magical. The City of Light transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive markets, and plenty of family-friendly holiday activities. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate at a Christmas market, ice skating in front of the Eiffel Tower, or making unforgettable memories at Disneyland Paris, your little ones will be enchanted by the holiday spirit all around. Best Christmas Markets for Families Paris boasts several Christmas markets that are perfect for families. Here are a few of the best spots to soak in the holiday cheer: Tuileries Garden Christmas Market (La Magie de Noël) – This market, located next to the Louvre, is one of the biggest and most festive in Paris. Kids will love the carnival rides, ice skating rink, and wooden chalets selling delicious treats like crêpes and roasted chestnuts. La Défense Christmas Market – With over 300 stalls, this is the largest market in Paris. It’s a great place for holiday shopping, and there’s plenty of kid-friendly entertainment, from puppet shows to Santa’s grotto. Montmartre Christmas Market – Nestled in the charming Montmartre district, this market has a cozy feel, with local artisans selling handcrafted gifts and warm mulled cider for parents to enjoy. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market – A smaller but charming market with gourmet treats and beautiful holiday decorations. Festive Family Activities in Paris Beyond the markets, there are plenty of holiday-themed activities to enjoy with kids in Paris: See the Christmas Lights – Take an evening stroll down the Champs-Élysées, where thousands of twinkling lights create a dazzling display. The Avenue Montaigne and Place Vendôme are also beautifully decorated. Go Ice Skating – Seasonal ice rinks pop up around the city, including at the Grand Palais and Hôtel de Ville, where kids can glide under the twinkling lights. Visit Galeries Lafayette – This famous department store is home to an incredible Christmas tree and window displays that mesmerize kids and adults alike. Meet Santa at Printemps – Another top department store, Printemps offers beautifully decorated holiday windows and even a chance to meet Père Noël himself. A Christmas Trip to Disneyland Paris No Christmas trip to Paris with kids is complete without a visit to Disneyland Paris. The park goes all out for the holidays, with festive parades, sparkling decorations, and special seasonal treats. Kids can meet Santa, watch Mickey and friends in their holiday outfits, and enjoy Christmas-themed shows. Don’t miss the Disney Enchanted Christmas Parade, where beloved characters march down Main Street, U.S.A., accompanied by dazzling floats and snow falling from the sky. From charming Christmas markets to Disneyland’s holiday magic, Paris is the perfect place to create unforgettable Christmas memories with your family. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate by the Eiffel Tower or riding It’s a Small World in its festive makeover, the city promises a holiday season full of wonder. What to Pack for Paris with Kids Comfortable Walking Shoes: Paris involves a lot of walking, so make sure the entire family has supportive footwear. Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Layers work best, as the weather can change throughout the day. Stroller or Carrier: Essential for younger kids, as even older ones can get tired. Snacks and Reusable Water Bottles: Keeps little ones energized and hydrated. Portable Charger: Useful for keeping phones and tablets powered up for navigation and entertainment. Small Toys or Books: Helps keep kids entertained during meals and travel. Pre-Booked Attraction Tickets: Saves time and ensures entry, especially for popular sites like the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris. Final Thoughts Traveling to Paris with kids is an unforgettable experience filled with culture, adventure, and magic. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip in Paris, a family getaway, or a Christmas vacation, this guide will help make your journey seamless and enjoyable. From exploring iconic landmarks to enjoying hidden gems, Paris has something for every family. Start planning your Paris trip today and create lifelong memories with your little travelers! Looking for more travel tips? Here are more stories about travel to Europe. I'd also love to hear your thoughts! Share your Paris travel experiences in the comments!

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