The best things to do in France with kids

The best things to do in France with kids

The Best Things to Do in France with Kids: A Fun-Filled 6-Day Family Adventure

France is one of the best family destinations in the world. From fairy-tale castles and world-famous theme parks to interactive museums and beautiful beaches, there are countless activities designed to keep children entertained while parents enjoy the country’s culture, history, and cuisine.

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, school-age children, or teenagers, this six-day itinerary highlights some of the best things to do in France with kids. Combining adventure, education, and fun, it offers an unforgettable family vacation through some of France’s most exciting destinations.

Day 1: Discover the Magic of Disneyland Paris

No family trip to France is complete without visiting Disneyland Paris.

Located just outside the French capital, Disneyland Paris is Europe’s most popular theme park and a dream destination for children of all ages.

Highlights

  • Sleeping Beauty Castle
  • Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Big Thunder Mountain
  • Star Wars attractions
  • Character meet-and-greets
  • Disney parades and fireworks

Kids can meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying thrilling rides and magical experiences throughout the park.

Parents will appreciate the beautifully designed themed areas, excellent dining options, and easy transportation connections from central Paris.

Family Tip

Arrive early to maximize ride time and consider using the official app to monitor wait times throughout the day.

Overnight: Disneyland Paris or Paris


Day 2: Explore Paris Through a Child’s Eyes

Paris isn’t just for adults. The city offers plenty of attractions that children will love.

Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Kids are often fascinated by the panoramic views from the observation decks.

Family-Friendly Attractions

  • Eiffel Tower
  • Seine River cruise
  • Luxembourg Gardens playground
  • Jardin d’Acclimatation amusement park
  • Natural History Museum
  • Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie

A river cruise along the Seine allows children to see famous landmarks while resting their feet after a busy morning.

In the afternoon, head to Luxembourg Gardens, where kids can enjoy playgrounds, puppet shows, and sail miniature boats on the pond.

Family Tip

Pack snacks and plan plenty of breaks, as Paris involves more walking than many families expect.

Overnight: Paris


Day 3: Visit the Magnificent Château de Chambord

Travel to the Loire Valley, home to some of France’s most spectacular castles.

Among them, Château de Chambord stands out as a favorite for families. The castle looks like something straight from a fairy tale, with towers, turrets, and grand staircases.

What Kids Love

  • Castle towers to explore
  • Large parklands
  • Wildlife spotting
  • Interactive exhibits
  • Horse and falconry shows

Children can imagine themselves as princes, princesses, and knights while wandering through one of Europe’s most impressive royal residences.

The surrounding grounds offer ample space for outdoor adventures and picnics.

Family Tip

Rent bicycles to explore the estate and keep younger travelers engaged.

Overnight: Loire Valley


Day 4: Adventure on the French Riviera

France’s Mediterranean coastline offers sunshine, beaches, and family-friendly attractions.

Base yourself in Nice, one of the most welcoming cities for families.

Top Activities

  • Relax on family-friendly beaches
  • Walk along the Promenade des Anglais
  • Visit Parc Phoenix
  • Explore the Old Town
  • Enjoy ice cream by the sea

Parc Phoenix combines botanical gardens with animal exhibits, making it particularly popular with younger children.

Families can also take a short boat trip or enjoy a beach day along the beautiful Côte d’Azur.

Family Tip

Many beaches have calm waters that are ideal for younger swimmers.

Overnight: Nice


Day 5: Explore Marine Life in Monaco

Just a short journey from Nice lies the tiny principality of Monaco.

One of its biggest attractions for families is the Oceanographic Museum, perched dramatically above the Mediterranean Sea.

Highlights

  • Shark lagoon
  • Tropical fish aquariums
  • Marine science exhibits
  • Interactive displays
  • Stunning sea views

Children can learn about ocean conservation while observing hundreds of fascinating marine species.

After visiting the museum, stroll around Monaco’s harbor and admire luxury yachts before enjoying a family meal overlooking the sea.

Family Tip

Combine Monaco with a scenic train ride along the coast for an extra adventure.

Overnight: Nice


Day 6: Discover History and Beaches in Normandy

Finish your family adventure in Normandy, where history and outdoor activities combine perfectly.

While adults may be interested in the region’s historical significance, children often enjoy the wide sandy beaches and charming coastal towns.

Family Activities

  • Visit Mont-Saint-Michel
  • Explore seaside villages
  • Fly kites on the beach
  • Visit local farms
  • Try traditional French crêpes

Mont-Saint-Michel feels like a real-life fairy-tale island. Kids love crossing the causeway and exploring the winding medieval streets leading up to the abbey.

The surrounding bay offers spectacular scenery and endless opportunities for family photographs.

Family Tip

Visit early in the morning to avoid large crowds during peak travel seasons.

Overnight: Normandy or departure


Extra Family-Friendly Attractions in France

If you have additional time, consider adding these destinations to your itinerary:

Puy du Fou

An award-winning historical theme park featuring live-action shows, knights, Vikings, and spectacular performances.

Futuroscope

A technology-themed amusement park with immersive multimedia attractions.

Parc Astérix

A popular theme park inspired by the beloved French comic book characters Astérix and Obélix.

ZooParc de Beauval

One of Europe’s finest zoos, home to giant pandas and thousands of animal species.

Annecy

Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy offers boat rides, cycling paths, and beautiful lakeside scenery.


Tips for Traveling in France with Kids

Use France’s High-Speed Trains

The TGV network makes it easy to travel between major cities quickly and comfortably.

Plan Downtime

Balance sightseeing with playground visits, beach breaks, and relaxed meals.

Embrace French Food

Many children enjoy fresh pastries, crêpes, baguettes, and ice cream, making mealtimes surprisingly easy.

Book Family Accommodations Early

Family rooms and apartments often sell out quickly, especially during summer holidays.

Carry Essentials

Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and entertainment for train journeys and waiting times.


Final Thoughts

France offers an incredible variety of experiences for families. Whether your children dream of meeting Disney characters, exploring medieval castles, discovering marine life, or playing on Mediterranean beaches, the country delivers unforgettable adventures at every turn.

This six-day itinerary combines some of France’s most exciting destinations while keeping children engaged and entertained throughout the journey. With its excellent transportation, family-friendly attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, France remains one of Europe’s top destinations for a memorable family vacation.