Best Places for Families to Travel in France

France is a treasure trove of experiences for families, offering a blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and educational experiences that can captivate the hearts of both adults and children. From the iconic landmarks of Paris to the serene beaches of the Riviera, each city and town in France has its unique charm and a plethora of activities that are perfect for families traveling with kids. Whether you're looking to explore medieval castles, enjoy theme parks, or simply soak in the rich French culture, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best cities and towns in France that are known for being family-friendly and offer a variety of attractions and recreational activities that families love.

Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is a magical destination for families. With attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Disneyland Paris, there's no shortage of things to do. The Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie is a hit with curious minds, offering interactive exhibits on science and technology. The Jardin d'Acclimatation is perfect for a day out, with its amusement rides, animal park, and enchanting puppet shows. Visit during spring or fall to avoid the crowds and enjoy mild weather. Cost-saving tips include using the Paris Visite travel pass for unlimited public transport and looking for combo tickets for attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a Seine River cruise. It's a relaxing way to see many of Paris's famous landmarks and a hit with kids who enjoy boat rides.

Where to Stay & Eat: Family-friendly hotels like Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel and Le Bristol Paris offer amenities for children. For dining, try Le Relais de l'Entrecôte for its simple yet delicious menu that appeals to all ages.

Nice

Nice, on the French Riviera, is a fantastic family destination with its beautiful beaches and vibrant old town. The Promenade des Anglais is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. The Parc Phoenix is a great place to explore with kids, featuring a large greenhouse, zoo, and play areas. Visit in the late spring or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Families can save by purchasing the French Riviera Pass, which offers free entries and discounts to many attractions.

Travel Tip: The Musée Océanographique in nearby Monaco is an aquarium and museum that shouldn't be missed. It offers a chance to learn about marine life and see a wide variety of sea creatures.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotels like Hotel Negresco cater to families and are close to the beach. For a kid-friendly dining experience, try La Voglia with its generous portions of Italian cuisine.

Annecy

Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps," is a picturesque town with canals, flower-decked bridges, and stunning mountain views. The Lake Annecy area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and cycling. The old town is a delight to explore with its colorful buildings and quaint shops. Summer is the best time to visit for outdoor activities, while winter offers the charm of nearby ski resorts. Consider the Annecy Pass to save on local attractions and transportation.

Travel Tip: The Palais de l'Île, a historical museum set in a 12th-century castle, is a fascinating place to learn about the region's history and architecture.

Where to Stay & Eat: L'Impérial Palace is a family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and beautiful lake views. For a meal, Le Fréti offers delicious Savoyard specialties that are sure to please the whole family.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg, with its blend of French and German cultures, is a family-friendly city that charms visitors with its half-timbered houses and the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral. The city's historic center, Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a pedestrian-friendly environment. The Parc de l'Orangerie is a lovely place for kids to play and visit storks, the symbol of Alsace. Visit during the Christmas season to experience the famous Strasbourg Christmas Market. The Strasbourg Pass offers discounts on boat tours, museums, and more.

Travel Tip: The astronomical clock inside Strasbourg Cathedral is a marvel of engineering and art, with a moving display that enchants visitors every day at solar noon.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg - MGallery offers family rooms and a central location. For a traditional Alsatian meal, Winstub S'kaechele is a cozy restaurant with a kid-friendly menu.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a vibrant city in the south of France with a youthful spirit and plenty of green spaces. The Place de la Comédie is a lively square where families can enjoy street performances and outdoor cafes. The Montpellier Zoo and Amazonian Greenhouse provide a free and educational day out for kids interested in wildlife and nature. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Look for the Montpellier City Card for discounts on public transport and attractions.

Travel Tip: The Planet Ocean World aquarium is a must-visit, offering an immersive experience with its underwater tunnel and touch pools.

Where to Stay & Eat: Novotel Suites Montpellier is well-suited for families, offering spacious suites and a convenient location. For dining, La Diligence offers a refined yet kid-friendly atmosphere and menu.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal city with a rich maritime history and an easy-going atmosphere. The Aquarium La Rochelle is one of Europe's largest private aquariums and a hit with families. The city's parks and beaches offer plenty of space for kids to run around and play. Visit in the summer to take advantage of the seaside activities. Families can save by using the La Rochelle Tourist Card, which provides access to public transport and discounts on attractions.

Travel Tip: The towers of La Rochelle, including the Tour Saint-Nicolas and the Tour de la Chaîne, offer panoramic views of the city and harbor that are not to be missed.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hôtel Les Brises has family rooms and is located right on the seafront. For a casual meal, try Ernest le Glacier for some of the best ice cream in town.

Avignon

Avignon is a medieval city in the heart of Provence, famous for the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. The city's annual Festival d'Avignon is a cultural extravaganza with many kid-friendly shows and activities. The Rocher des Doms gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of the Rhône River. Visit in the spring or early fall to enjoy pleasant weather and smaller crowds. The Avignon Pass provides discounts on several attractions and museums.

Travel Tip: The Petit Train Avignon is a fun way to see the city's highlights without tiring little legs. It takes you through the historic center and up to the Rocher des Doms.

Where to Stay & Eat: Novotel Avignon Centre offers family-friendly accommodations and a pool. For a taste of Provencal cuisine, La Fourchette provides a warm atmosphere and dishes that cater to all ages.