A Mecca of art, architecture, history, culture, romance, fashion and gastronomy, Paris is the epitome of a perfect holiday destination. And though it may not look kid-friendly at first sight, as it’s often promoted as an adult destination, it still has no shortage of children’s activities, from museums that cater to the young, to adventure-filled amusement parks, to wonderful gardens featuring a myriad of kid-pleasing activities. So, leave out the hustle and bustle of everyday life and head to the chic, romantic and adventurous French capital to experience genuine family Paris breaks that are some of the best city breaks in the world. Here are some of the best places you should not miss out while visiting Paris with kids.
Disneyland Paris
Ask anyone living in Paris about the best family-orientated getaway and they will definitely answer, Disneyland Paris. Truly, with two Theme Parks – Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, this is one of the most appealing amusement parks in the world, where magic is real and the real world becomes magical.
Watch the kids smiles light up when the Mickey Mouse greets them. Become a star as you explore the action-packed world of cinema and television at Walt Disney Studios Park. Enjoy a memorable day at Disney Village, the ultimate entertainment district, boasting superb dining and shopping venues, game arcade, discotheque, live concerts and much more. And add to the magic with a stay at one of the 7 uniquely themed Disney Resort hotels with superb family-friendly facilities and amenities. Take your kids to the place where all dreams come true…
Luxembourg Gardens
Another absolute must-see when traveling Paris with children is the awe-inspiring Luxembourg Gardens, the second largest public park in Paris, spread with statues, fountains and flowers. Created by Queen Marie de Medicis in 1612, the 25-hectares park is situated on Paris’s fashionable left bank and is a great place for a snack break. For kids the park offers many attractions and activities, including playgrounds, ziplines, swings, a boat pond where you can rent and sail toy boats using sticks, sandbox, train and small slides for toddlers, merry-go-round and puppet shows that are worth seeing. Pony rides may be available depending on the season. While your kids are playing, you can sit on the grass and absorb the atmosphere of Paris or else observe the park’s many gorgeous botanical arrangements.
Within its gates the park has also a museum – the Musee du Luxembourg, which is the oldest public museum in Pars, famous for being host to major retrospectives and exhibits on such world-famous artists as Modigliani, Matisse and Vlaminck. Luxembourg Gardens is entirely outside, and it’s recommended to check the weather forecast to plan your visit accordingly.
Cité Des Sciences Et De L’industrie
An ideal getaway for those looking for educational activities for their children, the Cité Des Sciences Et De L’industrie (Museum of Science and Industry) is a wonderful choice, designed to help kids of all ages develop and discover the world around them through a series of hands-on activities. Found in Paris’s ultramodern Parc de la Villette, the museum come with five thematic areas, including: ‘I discover myself,’ ‘I can do,’ ‘I locate myself,’ ‘All together,’ and ‘I experiment.’ Two to 5 year old children get to enjoy exciting experiments with water, light, wind and sound, while 12-year-olds can indulge in more than 150 activities focusing on scientific, interaction, communication and mechanics-related topics.
After you have experienced all the above mentioned activities, why not stroll along the charming tree-lined Champs Elysees, or watch the sunset from the top of the world-famous Eiffel Tower. Whatever your interests, this magic city has all the ingredients for an unforgettable family holiday!
