France with Kids: How to Plan a France Family Trip

Last Updated on November 21, 2025

France is a giant playground for kids of all ages: imagine castle-hopping, wandering lavender fields and getting lost in fairytale towns. There’s truly no shortage of fun activities for the whole family.

Mention France and most people immediately think of romantic strolls along the Seine in Paris, a picnic in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower and wine tasting in sun-drenched vineyards. For many, France is the quintessential couple’s getaway. We thought so too, until we took our kid.

What we discovered was a different France altogether — a France of squeals of delight from spotting marmots in the Pyrenees mountains, of sticky fingers from devouring warm Christmas cookies in Strasbourg, and of epic cannonballs and starry night skies while camping in the French Riviera.

We’ve explored France both as a couple and now, as a family, and can safely say it’s a magical place to experience through a child’s eyes. The country is a living storybook, where fairytale castles are real, history is something you can touch, and the food is an adventure for even the pickiest of eaters. This guide is born from our own family adventures. 

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France with Kids: Which Ages Would Enjoy it Most?

France is wonderfully adaptable for children of all ages, but the experience will differ depending on how old they are. Tiny tots and preschoolers will be enchanted by the simple things: the beautiful carousels, endless green spaces and the simple joy of a buttery croissant. Our daughter was 3 when we first brought her to Paris and she loved the macarons, getting lost in the Louvre, and the steps of Montmartre. 

The real sweet spot, we found, is for children aged 5 to 12. At this age, they have the stamina for exploring, and their imaginations can run wild. They are also old enough to enjoy hands-on activities like a pastry class or a pedal boat adventure. Our kid (5 years old then) saw the medieval fortress of Carcassonne as a real-life castle with knights and dragons. When we went to Alsace for Christmas, she was completely swept up by the magic of the Christmas markets.

Teenagers will appreciate the blend of iconic sights, culture, and adventure. They can dive into the art of the Louvre, appreciate the glamour of the French Riviera, and enjoy more adventurous activities like kayaking in the Verdon Gorge. Those with an interest in culinary culture can take a baking course or cooking classes.

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Is it Safe to Travel France with Kids?

France is generally a very safe country for families. The main concerns are the same as in any major tourist destination. In big cities like Paris, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas like the Metro and around major attractions. Always keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. When driving, never leave anything of value visible in your parked car, especially at beaches or tourist viewpoints. By taking these common-sense precautions, you can enjoy a safe and worry-free family holiday.

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How to Get Travel Insurance for Kids

Never travel without France travel insurance. It provides a crucial safety net for everything from lost luggage to, most importantly, medical emergencies. Most insurance companies will cover your child as long as he/she is below 18 years old. When booking, check for family policies that cover one or two adults and a number of dependent children for a single, often discounted, price. 

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Do You Need to Speak French to Travel France with Kids?

Most people speak some English especially in the tourist-popular spots. But locals definitely appreciate when you make some effort to speak some French. Teach your kids the basics like “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), “Au revoir” (Goodbye), and “S’il vous plaît” (Please). In major cities and tourist areas, you will find that many people speak English, but a cheerful “Bonjour” when you enter a shop or café goes a long way.

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Things to Do in France with Kids

France is a giant playground, blending history, fun, and food in a way that captivates every member of the family. Here are some of our absolute favorite experiences.

Have a Picnic at the Eiffel Tower (Paris)

The Eiffel Tower is a must-see, but we actually had more fun chilling on the lawn surrounding it than climbing it. After you’ve taken the elevator to the top (book tickets months in advance!), head to a local boulangerie and fromagerie to gather supplies: a crusty baguette, some delicious cheese, ham, and pastries. Then, spread out a blanket on the sprawling lawns of the Champ de Mars. It’s the perfect place for kids to run free and burn off energy, with one of the world’s most iconic landmarks as your backdrop. 

Take a Seine River Cruise (Paris)

A boat trip is the ultimate parenting hack for seeing Paris without complaints of tired legs. It’s a relaxing way to see a huge number of landmarks—the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Musée d’Orsay—from a unique perspective. We recommend taking a cruise in the late afternoon or early evening. If you time it right, you can be on the water when the Eiffel Tower begins its sparkling light show on the hour, a truly magical moment for the whole family.

Do a Treasure Hunt at the Louvre (Paris)

The thought of taking kids to the world’s largest art museum can be intimidating, but a little planning turns it into a grand adventure. Before you go, create a simple checklist of things for your kids to find. Include the big three—the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace—but also add fun items like an Egyptian sphinx, a king’s shiny crown in the Apollo Gallery. Keep your visit short (90 minutes) and celebrate your successful hunt with ice cream in the Tuileries Garden afterward. Here you can get entrance tickets.

Step into a Christmas Fairytale in Colmar

If you dream of experiencing a truly magical, old-world Christmas, then a trip to the Alsace region in December is an absolute must. The towns of Strasbourg and Colmar transform into a winter wonderland so with much magic and wonder. The air is filled with the scent of gingerbread (pain d’épices) and mulled wine (vin chaud for the parents, jus de pomme chaud for the kids), and the streets are a dazzling spectacle of twinkling lights and elaborate decorations. Don’t miss the Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.

Explore the Fairytale Fortress of Carcassonne (South-West France)

In the Occitanie region of southwest France lies La Cité de Carcassonne, a place that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a fairytale. This is Europe’s largest and most complete fortified city, and for kids, it’s the ultimate real-life castle. You can walk the outer ramparts for free, but it’s worth buying a ticket to enter the inner castle (Château Comtal) and walk along the high inner walls. Let their imaginations run wild as they picture knights defending the 52 towers and look through arrow slits to spot imaginary dragons in the fields below. For the best experience, grab your entry tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss out.

Conquer the Magical Island of Mont Saint-Michel (Normandy)

Rising dramatically from the sea, the abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is a sight that will awe even the most jaded teenager. It’s a magical island city that feels like something out of Harry Potter. Part of the adventure is the approach itself—walking across the long causeway as the tide rushes in around you. The village is a steep maze of winding streets, so wear comfortable shoes! The climb to the abbey at the top is a workout, but the views are incredible. 

Splash in a Campsite Waterpark (South of France)

We drove our campevan through Southern France one summer – and the highlight was staying at family campsites there, which are on another level. Our kid still talks about it. Think full-blown aquatic paradises with multiple pools, giant twisting waterslides, and splash pads for toddlers. These sites offer kids non-stop entertainment, allowing parents some much-needed relaxation time by the pool.

Walk the Ochre Trail in Roussillon (Provence)

Imagine a landscape that looks like it’s from another planet. In the heart of the Luberon, the village of Roussillon is famous for its vibrant ochre deposits. The easy, well-marked Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) takes you on a walk through the former quarry, surrounding you with stunning cliffs and earth in shades of deep red, bright orange, and brilliant yellow.. Just a tip: the ochre dust can stain, so don’t wear your best white clothes!

Rent a Pedal Boat in the Verdon Gorge (Provence)

Known as Europe’s Grand Canyon, the Gorges du Verdon is a natural wonder with unbelievably turquoise water. The most family-friendly way to experience it is by renting a pedal boat or an electric boat from the shores of the Lac de Sainte-Croix. Let the kids be the captains as you glide into the mouth of the massive canyon. You can paddle between the towering limestone cliffs, find a small, secluded spot to moor, and jump straight from the boat into the cool, refreshing water.

Climb the Ramparts of a Hilltop Village (Provence)

The hilltop villages of the Luberon, like Gordes or Bonnieux, are like real-life mazes for kids to explore. Turn your visit into a quest: the goal is to climb the winding, cobblestone streets all the way to the very top. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view over the entire valley and, of course, a well-deserved glace (ice cream) from an artisanal shop in the village square.

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Where We Stayed in France with Kids

Choosing the right home base is the secret to a successful family trip. You need space for everyone to unwind, amenities that make life easier (hello, kitchenettes!), and, ideally, a pool for that all-important end-of-day splash. We loved the family-friendly campsites in Southern France and can’t recommend them enough! Here are the places we stayed at and can highly recommend:

Paris – Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris

Located in a fantastic, central neighborhood, these serviced apartments offer the perfect blend of hotel services and the freedom of your own space. The kitchenettes are well-equipped, and you’re just a short walk from the Luxembourg Gardens, Notre Dame, and countless bakeries. Check rates here.

Provence – Yelloh! Village Luberon Parc

This is the kind of place that makes kids think you’re the best parent ever. Located in the heart of the Luberon, it offers modern and comfortable mobile homes. The real draw is the incredible aquatic park, complete with multiple pools, waterslides, and a splash zone that will keep the kids entertained for hours. An on-site bakery for morning croissants is the cherry on top.

Cannes – Esterel Caravaning

Located in the beautiful Esterel hills just outside Cannes, this five-star campsite offers an incredible resort experience. It features a huge waterpark, kids’ clubs, and multiple restaurants, providing a fun, self-contained holiday world just a short drive from the Riviera’s famous beaches.

Aix-en-Provence – Odalys City Aix en Provence L’Atrium

 A great-value option offering clean, modern apartments with kitchenettes. It’s a slightly longer walk to the main Cours Mirabeau, but the space and self-catering facilities make it a practical and affordable base for families. Check rates here.

Carcasonne – Yelloh! Village La Cité 

Just a few minutes’ drive from the medieval city, this campsite is a fantastic family base. It offers comfortable mobile homes and a superb pool complex with waterslides. It’s the perfect antidote to a hot day of sightseeing and provides a fun, relaxed environment for the whole family.

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When to Travel France with Kids

The shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October offer the best combination of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It can get very crowded in popular spots like Paris and Cannes during the holidays (Christmas, Easter and summer).

If you want the full waterpark and beach experience, July and August are the best times to go. Just be prepared for the heat and book everything far in advance.

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How Long to Travel France with Kids?

10 days is a great amount of time for a first family trip, allowing you to experience the highlights of Paris and get a wonderful taste of Provence. If you have two full weeks, you can travel at a more relaxed pace and perhaps add a few days on the French Riviera to your itinerary.

• Days 1-4: Paris. Arrive and settle in. Spend your days exploring the Eiffel Tower and Champ de Mars, the Luxembourg Gardens, doing a treasure hunt at the Louvre, and exploring the charming streets of Montmartre.
• Day 5: Travel to Provence. Take the high-speed TGV train from Paris to Avignon (only 3 hours). Pick up your rental car and drive to your campsite base for the week.
• Days 6-11: Provence. Use your campsite as a base for day trips. Explore the hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon, visit the Pont du Gard, have an adventure in the Verdon Gorge, visit a local market, and enjoy plenty of downtime at the campsite’s pools and waterparks.
• Days 12-13: The French Riviera. Drive towards the coast. Visit the perched village of Èze and spend a day exploring the vibrant city of Nice and its famous promenade.
• Day 14: Departure. Drive to Nice Airport (NCE) for your flight home. Search for cheap flights from Nice here.

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Map of Our Recommended France Itinerary

This map highlights each major stop on our 2-week France itinerary, so you can easily see how the journey flows from Paris to Provence and down to the sparkling French Riviera.

Click here to download the map.

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What We’d Do Differently Next Time

While our family adventures in France were incredible, there are a few tweaks we’d make for next time to make it even smoother. Firstly, we would have spent more time in the French Riviera. There’s a lot more to do there than beaches – we loved the villages and lavender fields there. I would schedule in a full rest day just to enjoy the incredible campsite pools and activities without feeling like we needed to be anywhere else.

Secondly, we would book a campsite slightly closer to the main Luberon villages. Our campsite was amazing, but it was about a 45-minute drive to places like Gordes and Roussillon. While manageable, that drive time ate into our days. Next time, we’d look for a base closer to the heart of the Luberon to cut down on car time and maximize our “playground” time in those beautiful old towns.

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Getting Around France with Kids

By Car Rental

A car is essential for exploring Provence and the South of France. It gives you the freedom to visit small villages, stop at scenic viewpoints, and easily transport all your family gear. Remember to request car seats for your children when you book. We drove our camper van through the South of France, and it was one of the best trips we’ve ever done!

Search for car rentals in France here!

By Train

If you don’t drive, the high-speed TGV train is a good way to travel long distances, for example, from Paris to the South. It’s fast, comfortable, and a fun experience for kids. Book your tickets in advance especially if you’re traveling in summer.

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What to Eat in France with Kids

France is a foodie paradise, even for little ones. Our kid loved:

• Viennoiseries: The collective name for breakfast pastries like croissants, pain au chocolat, and chaussons aux pommes (apple turnovers).
• Crêpes: Thin pancakes that can be sweet (with Nutella and banana) or savory (galettes with ham and cheese).
• Croque Monsieur: The ultimate grilled ham and cheese sandwich, often covered in bubbly béchamel sauce.
• Steak Frites: A simple but delicious classic of steak and french fries that you’ll find on most bistro menus.
• Baguettes: A trip to the boulangerie for a fresh, crusty baguette is a daily ritual. Perfect for picnics with some ham and cheese.
• Glace: Ice cream! You’ll find artisanal ice cream shops in every town with a rainbow of delicious flavors.

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How to Stay Connected in France with Kids

While Wi-Fi is common in hotels and campsites, having reliable data on your phone for navigation and on-the-go planning is a lifesaver. We recommend getting an eSIM – you can buy and install it online without having to find a local phone shop.

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and offers affordable plans for France and the rest of Europe. We’ve used Airalo on all our recent trips; it’s easy to set up, and the connection has always been fast and reliable, which is perfect for keeping the kids entertained with a show during a long drive.

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Cost of Travel in France with Children

France can be an expensive destination, but there are many ways to make it more affordable for families.

• Accommodation: Expect to pay €150-€300 per night for a family-friendly hotel or apartment in Paris. In the South, a fully-equipped mobile home on a top-tier campsite can range from €100-€250 per night and often offers much better value. Search for hotels in Paris here.
• Food: A family meal at a mid-range bistro could cost €80-€120. Save money by having picnics for lunch with delicious supplies from a local market or supermarket.
• Activities: Many museums in Paris offer free entry for children under 18. Budget €20-€50 per person for major attractions.
• Transportation: A one-week car rental can cost €400-€700. TGV tickets vary greatly, but book in advance for fares around €40-€80 per person.

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What to Pack for a France Family Trip

• Kids’ hiking shoes
• Kids’ sandals or Keen water shoes
• Kids’ wide-rimmed hat
• Kids’ down jacket
• Kids’ fleece
• Kids’ zip-off convertible pants
• Long-sleeved pajamas to protect from mosquitos
• Kids’ underwear
• Kids swimsuit
• Kids’ breathable socks
• Kids’ polarized sunglasses with strap
• SPF 50 Sunscreen
• Insect repellant with DEET
• World travel kit stocked with medication 
• Head torch or flashlight
• Kids’ binoculars
• Kids digital camera
• Canon EOS 60D camera
• RAVPower portable power bank
• 70-300mm Tamron lens
• International plug converter
• iPad or Kindle with headphones for long car rides

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Practical Tips for Traveling France with Kids

• Book Ahead: For major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, and for TGV trains and accommodation, book as far in advance as possible.
• Embrace Picnics: Eating out for every meal can get expensive and tiring. Picnics are a fun, affordable, and very French way to eat.
• Find the Playgrounds: Almost every town has a public playground (aire de jeux). They are the perfect place for a break and for your kids to burn off some energy.
• Rent a campervan: We absolutely loved exploring France on campervan, the campsites are affordable and amazing, and parking really isn’t as much of a hassle as we thought it’d be.
• Slow Down: Don’t try to pack too much into one day. Build plenty of downtime into your schedule for relaxing at the campsite pool or simply enjoying an ice cream in a town square.
• Use Public Transport in Paris: The Paris Metro is efficient and extensive. Buy a carnet of 10 tickets for better value.
• Check for Family Discounts: Always ask about family tickets or discounts for children at museums and attractions.

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Enjoy Your Trip to France Family Trip!

Thank you for reading this far! I hope this guide has helped you to plan your France family trip. Feel free to leave me any questions or comments you may have below.

Here are more of my articles on traveling with kids to help you with your trip planning:

• 7-day Portugal itinerary
• Portugal with kids
• Spain with kids
• Austria with Kids
• Santorini with kids
• Ski Slovakia with kids
• Kufsteinerland with kids
• Vietnam with kids

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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