How to Enjoy a Hassle-Free Escape

When it comes to European cities, Paris tops many a travel bucket list. Perfect for couples and popular with culture vultures, the French capital is also a first-rate choice if you’re searching for family-friendly destinations. Here, you’ll find world-class theme parks, some of the best museums on the planet, and plenty of outdoor spaces for when you want to escape the crowds.

While there’s a lot to love about the City of Lights, the first step of any Parisian adventure is getting there. Planning a trip to Paris with kids? My guide breaks down what you need to know about putting together a dream itinerary.

Take the Hassle Out of Travelling as a Family

When travelling as a family, choosing a destination that’s only a short train ride or flight away from home is a smart option for keeping hassle to a minimum. We went from London to Paris by train with the kids because it’s a great place to instil a love of travelling in little ones. They’ll enjoy being exposed to a different culture, while not being too far from home. The journey is simple, quick and convenient from London, with just enough time to make it exciting, and yet not so long that boredom sets in, making it easy enough to keep little ones entertained en route. 

Getting Out and Exploring Paris

No matter how old your children are, you’re bound to find something to put a smile on their faces in the French capital. Disneyland Paris, one of the world’s most popular theme parks, regularly welcomes over 10 million visitors annually. Not keen on the idea of all those crowds? Fête des Tuileries is a good alternative. Offering a generous selection of rides and amusements, this annual fun fair is the place to be in the summer.

What to Do in Paris with Kids

Eager for younger travellers to soak up some culture during their stay in Paris? The Museum of Art and Crafts will enthrall visitors of all ages, with a host of kid-friendly interactive exhibits to explore. Alternatively, you’ll have no complaints if you suggest a trip to Choco-Story Paris, a museum dedicated exclusively to chocolate. With plenty of immersive exhibits to explore, there’s a keen focus on learning there. Of course, you’ll also be able to indulge in mouth-watering tasting experiences too. Bon apetit!

Keen on taking in the sights? If you’re struggling to convince the rest of the family to enjoy a spot of sightseeing while you’re in Paris, how about suggesting a riverboat tour of the city’s many waterways to enjoy this spectacular city from a unique vantage point from the water? Of course, you’ll want to haul them along for the usual photo opps. No visit to Paris is complete without seeing iconic local landmarks, such as the Arc de Triomphe or the Eiffel Tower. Strike a pose! 

What to Eat and Where to Dine

With more than 120 Michelin-starred restaurants, haute cuisine isn’t hard to find in Paris. Countless Parisian classics are waiting to be enjoyed, with local favourites like beef Bourguignon, duck confit, and steak au poivre topping the list. If you’re travelling with little ones and are on the lookout for less stuffy surroundings, why not try one of the city’s many open-air food markets? Just a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, you’ll find Saxe-Breteuil Market, with vendors serving up a healthy selection of organic and traditional produce and on-the-go eats and patisseries are not to be missed. Pain au chocolat anyone?

Looking to combine outdoor dining with a bit of retail therapy? Head to the 6th arrondissement and you’ll find Raspail Market. There’s plenty of delicious produce and freshly-prepared snacks to savour there, while nearby Rue de Rennes plays host to various exclusive boutiques for those searching for one-of-a-kind finds.

Have fun!