A Family Adventure in the City of Light: Exploring Paris with Kids
Paris, often celebrated as a romantic destination, also offers an abundance of family-friendly experiences that make it an unforgettable trip for travelers of all ages. Exploring Paris with kids is a wonderful vacation. On our recent family journey, we discovered the delights of Paris while staying at the charming Hôtel Les Jardins du Luxembourg, perfectly situated near the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg.
A Culinary Journey: Pastries, Coffee, and all that Sauce!
Our days began with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries from SAS Boulangerie Moderne Rabineau and La Maison d’Isabelle. The buttery croissants and decadent pain au chocolat were the perfect way to start the morning. Coffee lovers in our family found their fix at Le Bon Moment Café, where the rich espresso fueled our Parisian adventures and kept the littles entertained with their kiddie corner stocked with toys and books.
For heartier meals, we dined at Lobineau, Brasserie Des Prés, Le Bon Georges, and The Bouillon of Paris, each offering a distinct taste of French cuisine. A special highlight was the lively atmosphere and delectable pizza at Pizzeria Popolare, which delighted everyone in our group.
Afternoon indulgences included a visit to the iconic Berthillon for ice cream. The kids adored the variety of flavors. In the Montmatre neighborhood we stopped for a refreshing lager and people-watching at La Mère Catherine, soaking in the artistic ambiance of this historic neighborhood. We then walked the grounds of Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre, its position atop of the hill allows for unique perspectives of the city and made for another great photo opportunity. We were pleased to learn of Patoche – Microbrasserie, a local craft brewery taproom, where we decided to try some samples and enjoyed its laid-back vibe. Our girls appreciated the rest and a few rounds of Sleeping Queens, one of their favorite card games.
Iconic Landmarks and Unforgettable Views
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting its iconic landmarks. Visiting the Louvre was a mix of experiences for our family. Our youngest, at just four years old, dozed peacefully half-way through the visit, comfortably tucked into the stroller as we navigated the magnificent halls. There were a lot of stairs and elevators were not conveniently located so this was a bit of a challenge. Our oldest, however, was captivated by the chance to see renowned masterpieces she had learned about on the Louvre kids website (louvrekids.louvre.fr/) in advance of the trip. Her favorite was the exhibit of royal jewels, where she eagerly borrowed our phone to snap photos of the Regent Diamond and other dazzling treasures. Meanwhile, Marina marveled at the Louvre’s rich history, learning it was once a royal residence. The intricate crown moldings, elaborate murals, and exquisitely detailed walls fascinated her just as much as the priceless art, leaving her awestruck by the splendor of the rooms themselves.
The Eiffel Tower was another unforgettable experience. We ascended to the second floor, where we sipped champagne while taking in panoramic views of the city. It was a magical moment for everyone, with the grandeur of Paris stretching out before us.
Parks and Playful Escapes
The Jardin du Luxembourg offered a delightful respite, where the girls sailed miniature boats in the fountain. The lush gardens and serene atmosphere provided a perfect break from sightseeing.
Another highlight was the morning we spent at Jardin d’Acclimatation. This amusement park offered endless rides and treats for the kids, ensuring laughter and joy throughout our visit. It was a place where the adults could unwind while the children reveled in the fun.
Exploring Parisian Neighborhoods
We wandered through the bustling Les Enfants du Marché, taking in the vibrant market scene. A visit to Notre Dame, which is nearing the completion of its restoration, was awe-inspiring. The intricate architecture and storied history captivated us all. The Galeries Lafayette provided a luxurious shopping experience, and the kids especially enjoyed the top floor that featured kids toys. It was a rainy day so the rooftop terrace was closed. We also enjoyed a shopping spree at Courtois Paris, where we found a charming pink beret, and on Ile Saint-Denis, where we picked up a souvenir T-shirt to remember our trip. Marina picked out one-of-kind pair of earrings and her favorite souvenir at La Boulangerie, a co-op boutique offering a wide variety of handmade artisanal goodies.
To navigate the city, we opted for the Batobus on the Seine River. This convenient waterway transportation allowed us to enjoy Paris from a different perspective while effortlessly moving between destinations. The metro was another efficient and family-friendly way to get around.
Memories to Treasure
Our family trip to Paris was a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and fun. From exploring historic landmarks to savoring delicious meals and enjoying the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, every moment was filled with joy and discovery. Paris truly is a city for all ages, and we’re already dreaming of our next visit to the City of Light.