How to have a Happy Family Trip to Paris

Written as part of Paris Culture Week for our Love Paris giveaway

The first time my son visited Paris, he was four months old. It was early March and the weather was still cold and we had no idea what we were thinking by taking a baby to Paris.

Happily we discovered that Paris is an amazing city for kids and we have gone back on numerous occasions with our now 2 year old son!  We have learned some things along the way which can hopefully help anyone who is planning such a trip with young children of their own…

1. Always plan ahead

Most hotels offer lit bebes (baby beds) free of charge for children under two. Always request this when making your reservation and call ahead a few days before your arrival to make sure it will be available. Keep in mind that most Paris hotel rooms are small and there will be little room to breathe with the baby bed in place, but it will much better than trying to cram a toddler into a French double bed!

2. Re-think the stroller

A stroller is amazing for getting around town on foot. Paris is, after all, a walking city. While we have taken the stroller along for many of our trips, it is always helpful to think about what you will be doing during the day. A lot of the buildings are older and not accessible to strollers. For example while you can take the funicular to the steps of Sacré Coeur, lifting a stroller through the remaining stairs to see the church might not be so much fun.

Also certain subway stops are not handicap accessible and could limit your options as far as transportation is concerned. If a heavy day of sightseeing is involved, consider some sort of baby carrier to make moving around and seeing the sights more comfortable. Also note that certain museums and sights, such as Versailles, won’t even allow a stroller inside.

3. Let kids be kids

Non-stop museums and sightseeing is tiring for adults so imagine how your little one feels. Paris a great city designed for small breaks! Let your kids run (or crawl) around in the numerous green fields and parks that are all over the city, such as the Champs de Mars in front of the Eiffel Tower of the Jardins de Tuileries near the Louvre. It’s a great way to relax and take in some of your beautiful surroundings while letting your kids let off some much needed energy!

Also remember that Boeuf Bourguignon and Escargots don’t have to be on the menu every day! While they are some great restaurants to enjoy, indulge in some sandwiches (on delicious fresh baked baguettes) some pain au chocolate and crepes every once in a while, I mean who doesn’t love chocolate for breakfast!?

4. Take lots of pictures!

You and your children will want to have keepsakes of this wonderful trip for many years to come!

Want to win a trip to Paris? Like us on Facebook to enter our Love Paris giveaway (to September 30th 2011). The prize includes a Paris hotel stay and activity for two, plus £150/€170 travel vouchers to make the return journey.

About the author: Barbara is an American expatriate that has been living in France with her family for 3 years; visit her blog Footprints in the Sand where she writes about her experiences raising a family abroad.

Flickr image, with thanks: 1

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