The glamour of the City of Lights can sometimes make you forget that Paris is a charming destination for children. It is a city that has never forgotten its sense of whimsy—something you will be reminded of over and over again as you find delightful corners of the city with your children. Timeless memories await you in the place where a happy childhood is always picturesque.
No visit to Paris is complete without a trip to one (or several!) of the beautiful parks. The Jardin du Luxembourg in the 6th arrondissement and the Tuileries Garden in the 1st arrondissement are two that will enchant your children. At both of these gardens, miniature sailboats are available for epic sea voyages across the central fountain. The boats may need a little prodding to make it from one side of the fountain to the other, but children of all ages—and the young at heart—will enjoy piloting their very own yacht.
Be sure to take a ride on one of the beautiful wooden carousels. Each garden in the city boasts its own merry-go-round. In the Tuileries Garden, the carousel is a gorgeous 19th century antique with brightly painted horses and the traditional calliope music. Children riding the Luxembourg Garden carousel each try to hook a brass ring with a lance. A simple ride becomes an exciting quest!
If energies are flagging, one of the famous marionette puppet shows would be the perfect rest and pick-me-up. These colorful productions transcend language, so even the littlest spectators will find themselves giggling at Guignol’s crazy antics. There are marionette theaters in nearly every park in the city, each with daily showtimes, so you may find yourself bringing your children back again after they’ve fallen in love with the old-time entertainment.
Round out your visit to the park with a snack. All children love finger food, and no Parisian food will entice quite like a crepe. Stopping at a creperie is part entertainment—watching the simply elegant construction of the crepe will be unforgettable for an American child—and all delicious. Introduce your child to savory crepes for lunch, and a crepe à Nutella for dessert. Licking the chocolate hazelnut sauce from her fingers will give your little one an unforgettable appreciation for food.
No matter how young or old your children, Paris is where happy memories can be made. New York Habitat has beautiful apartments available for a family vacation to Paris. These furnished rentals can provide your brood with the perfect housing for building lovely memories and new family traditions. Get your search started with one of these apartments in the 6th arrondissement and vacation rentals in the 1st arrondissement, all within easy distance of Jardin du Luxembourg and the Tuileries Garden:
This lovely and spacious 3 Bedroom Vacation Rental – St Michel – St Germain – Notre Dame – Paris (PA-2646) has room for up to six occupants, with patterned hardwood floors, built-in bookcases, a fully equipped kitchen and gorgeous views. This is a perfect vacation rental for an active family.
This welcoming 2 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Opera – Le Louvre – Paris (PA-3231) is just steps from the Tuileries Garden, and features high ceilings, a balcony overlooking the Louvre, and gorgeous furnishings.
A family wanting to be in the center of it all should look no further than this 2 Bedroom Vacation Rental – St Michel – St Germain – Notre Dame – Paris (PA-4071) With exposed beams, two private bathrooms, a gorgeous tiled kitchen, and plenty of space, this rental will guarantee you a wonderful visit to Paris.
What aspect of a French childhood would you most like to give to your children?
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