Paris with Kids: 11 Tips for an Amazing Family Trip to Paris
This week Lisa shares 11 essential tips for visiting Paris! If you ever plan to visit Paris, this episode is perfect for you!
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Paris is one of my favorite cities in the world! We’ve been a few times, and I have compiled a list of tips that help make trips to Paris even better!
1. Parisians are kind and helpful
Despite the stereotype that French people aren’t friendly, we have had great experiences with the French! They are so kind and willing to help you however they can. Although not everyone can speak English, many people are able to!
2. Paris is a big city
As Paris is quite large, you’ll need to figure out the best transportation to get around. We love the metro, and it is super easy to use. I recommend that you buy a pass for the number of days that you’re there and then you’ll have unlimited rides. Children under 4 are free for public transportation. Children under 10 are half off!
We also love the app Rome2Rio! All you have to do is put in your location and desired destination, and the app tells you the best route and modes of transportation.
Also, plan to walk a lot. Ubers are also available.
3. Good food is everywhere
Trying to visit all the “best” places to eat in Paris can be overwhelming. The cool thing is, there are amazing restaurants everywhere in the city! No matter where you are, great food is near you. Don’t stress about traveling to all of the “top 10” locations.
4. Learn simple French phrases
Before traveling somewhere new, I like to learn simple words/phrases that people use in the area. Easy words to learn include “hello”, “thank you”, “excuse me”, and “I’m sorry”. Putting in a little effort to respect the culture can go a long way.
5. Buy a museum pass
If you want to see a few museums, the museum pass includes so many of them! This way, you can spend a little bit of time at each of the museums that spark your interest. Also, be aware that if you have kids who are students (of any age), they can show their student ID and get into most museums for free!
The pass also lets you skip the line to get in! But be aware that you will still need to make reservations for the more popular museums.
6. See the Eiffel Tower
Of course, you’ll want to visit the Eiffel Tower while in Paris! I would definitely recommend going up the tower if you haven’t before. Elevator tickets go on sale at midnight (Paris time) 60 days before the date you want to visit. However, if you want to climb the stairs, tickets go on sale 7 days beforehand.
If the tickets happen to sell out, there are tour operators who sell tickets to the Eiffel Tower. Be sure to check out these third-party companies if you can’t find tickets.
7. Spend 4-5 days in Paris
You will not run out of things to do in Paris! There is so much to see and do there, so don't rush your stay in this city.
8. Visit the Eiffel Tower at 11 pm
At 11 pm at night, the Eiffel Tower twinkles! This is truly a magical experience! The whole tower sparkles with dazzling lights.
Side note: Be aware of pick-pocketers in this area!
9. See something that looks fun or delicious? Stop and do it!
As Paris is a large city, chances are you won’t be back in the exact same areas more than once (unless it’s close to your hotel). So if you pass something that catches your eye, stop to check it out!
10. Dress nicely
Dress just a little bit nicer than you might on a traditional U.S. vacation. Everyone takes a little bit more care to get ready and look nice. People weren’t even wearing any workout-style clothes in public!
For shoes, just wear what’s most comfortable! You’ll be walking a lot.
11. Not to miss!
Eat the pastries! We especially loved the “opera bars”. SO good!
Enjoy time at an outdoor cafe. This is truly a time to relax and enjoy a drink or meal.
Enjoy walking! Whenever you’re out on your feet, you’re going to see so many places that you wouldn’t have seen if you were driving.
Plan 2 things a day that you for sure want to see! Don’t make your days overwhelming or over-planned.