Taking a family vacation to Paris? It’s tempting to cram in as many activities as possible, but it’s important to prioritize what truly matters: quality time and making memories. This guide will help you plan your day trips in the City of Lights, keeping both you and your kids happy.
Prioritize Rest and Relaxation
The first day in Paris should be all about adjusting. Think of it as a “soft landing” after your journey. After a long flight, your kids will be exhausted and need to acclimate to the new time zone. Instead of rushing into sightseeing, embrace the Parisian charm: take a leisurely river cruise, enjoy a delicious meal at a local cafe, or simply stroll along the city’s picturesque boulevards. Don’t feel pressured to leave the city limits for at least a few days. Paris is a city you can easily explore on foot and provides endless opportunities for family-friendly fun.
Planning Day Trips: From Transportation to Logistics
Once your family has settled in, consider a day trip to explore the surrounding area. Popular destinations like Versailles, Giverny, and Disneyland Paris are easily accessible by train. However, if you’re pressed for time, save Disneyland for a future domestic vacation. Remember: your time in Europe is precious.
When choosing your destination, consider several factors:
- Transportation: Each destination requires a different train route. For example, getting to Versailles is easy, but reaching Giverny involves a slightly more complex journey. Factor in the travel time to and from the station, especially if you have younger kids. To avoid stress, book an age-appropriate taxi through G7, which offers car seats.
- Travel Time: Train journeys can be long and crowded, making them challenging for young travelers. Sometimes, staying in Paris and enjoying quality time as a family might be a better option than a long trip.
Packing for Success: From Essentials to Snacks
If you decide to take a day trip, packing strategically is essential. Keep it light and pack only the essentials, as storage space on trains and at tourist sites is often limited. Here are some packing tips:
- Summer: Bring plenty of water, hats, sunglasses, extra sunscreen, and a misting fan to stay cool.
- Fall/Winter: Pack gloves, warm jackets, waterproof outerwear, and umbrellas. Be prepared for chilly temperatures and unexpected weather.
- Snacks: French families always pack snacks! Pick up cheese and meat at a fromagerie, grab some baguettes on the way to the station, and pack napkins and utensils for a simple lunch.
Don’t forget these essentials:
- Change: Public bathrooms at tourist attractions often charge a fee.
- Stroller: A lightweight umbrella stroller is helpful for little ones and easily fits on most trains.
Recommended Day Trips: From Historic Towns to Lush Parks
Here are a few day trip ideas to inspire your Parisian adventure:
- Bayeux (Long Journey): Located in Normandy, this medieval city houses the Bayeux Tapestry, a fascinating piece of history. Take the Intercités 3301 train from Gare Saint-Lazare for a 2.5-hour journey. The museum is a 10-15 minute walk from the train station.
- Chantilly (Nearby Outing): Explore the Domaine de Chantilly, a beautiful 19th-century estate. Take the TER train from Gare du Nord to Gare de Chantilly Gouvieux, a 20-25 minute ride. From there, it’s a 4-minute taxi or a 30-minute walk to the Chateau.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (City-Centered): Enjoy a day in this sprawling green space in Paris’ 19th arrondissement. Explore its caves, wander along the man-made lake, and enjoy delicious treats at the kid-friendly restaurants.
Remember: You don’t need to leave Paris to have a memorable day. Explore the city beyond the famous landmarks and discover hidden gems!
