Popular itinerary for A Family Trip to France:
France is an ideal destination for family adventures that combine history, a myriad of attractions, and cultural richness. From well-known landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to the enchanting castles of the Loire Valley, every corner offers a new discovery. Enjoy amusement parks like Disneyland Paris or Futuroscope, providing exciting entertainment for all ages, and explore modern and historical sites, ensuring a diverse array of experiences that captivate each family member.
This proposed itinerary is for a 10-day trip that begins and ends in Paris.
Day 1: Paris
Begin your day at the Trocadéro metro station, and make your way to Trocadéro Square to enjoy a panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower from the terrace. Descend the stairs to explore the gardens and fountains, then head uphill to the Aquarium de Paris for a journey into the undersea world. From the aquarium, return to the gardens and climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views of the city. The tethered balloon situated in Citroën Park offers spectacular views, as well. Reach it by taking the train at the Javel – André Citroën station and then strolling along the river for approximately 10 minutes. Known as “Ballon de Paris Generali,” this floating balloon ascends tethered to a cable, reaching a height of about 492 feet.
As the day winds down, visit Montmartre Hill and explore the impressive Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, along with the charming artists’ square, Place du Tertre – a bustling hub for portrait painters, restaurants, cafes, and traditional French crepe vendors. To get there, take a local bus, a taxi, a leisurely walk, or the convenient funicular train from the Anvers metro station, priced as a single metro ticket.
Day 2: Asterix Theme Park
Devote the day to exploring Parc Astérix, a theme park inspired by the beloved French comic book series. Delight in a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, live shows, and interactive experiences tailored for all age groups. The park’s themed areas are well-designed, transporting visitors to the historical eras and various locations featured in the comics. Conveniently accessible by car or shuttle buses departing from Paris airports, you can find additional information on the park’s website.
Day 3: Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace (Air and Space Museum)
This is one of the world’s most impressive aviation and space museums, located at Paris-Le Bourget Airport. You can reach the museum by buses No. 610, 350, 152, or 148. The museum showcases an amazing collection ranging from historical planes to contemporary aircraft, military aircraft to aviation accessories, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolution of aviation and space exploration. You will have the opportunity to enter pilot cabins, experience simulators, and explore both modern and antique planes that have undergone meticulous renovation and maintenance in the museum’s workshops.
In the evening, upon returning to the city, consider a visit to the vibrant Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin) teeming with an array of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls. The area is accessible by taking the metro to Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station.
Day 4: Disneyland
Hop on the RER suburban train bound for Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station and devote an entire day to Disneyland Paris. This captivating amusement park undergoes a magical transformation in the evening, with its dazzling lights creating a magical atmosphere. Renowned for its diverse array of attractions suitable for all ages, the park promises thrills, surprises, a variety of dining options, stalls, and a dedicated team committed to ensuring your visit is both thorough and flawless.
Day 5: Paris
On our last day in Paris, before heading to the Loire Valley, explore several family-friendly attractions and leisure spots. The first half of the day will be dedicated to the Opera – Concorde – Louvre area.
Exiting the metro at the Opéra station, take a moment to admire the impressive building, and consider purchasing tickets in advance for a guided tour of this historical landmark. From Opéra Square, stroll through the prestigious Rue de la Paix, known for its global luxury brands, particularly in watches and jewelry. After a short walk, you’ll reach Place Vendôme, with its central Colonne Vendôme column, topped by a statue of Napoleon.
Continuing your journey along Rue de la Paix, you’ll arrive at Jardin des Tuileries, connecting to the magnificent Place de la Concorde and the Louvre Museum. Enhance your visit to the gardens by experiencing the Giant Ferris Wheel, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. At the Louvre’s entrance gate on Rue de Rivoli, you will find the museum’s ticket booths and expansive restaurant area.
In the afternoon, venture into the Pompidou Center (Le Centre Pompidou) and the vibrant Les Halles market district. This lively area is filled with cafes and stalls. Les Halles market, rooted in La Halle’s tradition, offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and even a grocery store. A short stroll from the Pompidou Center leads to the fabulous City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) and the bustling Rue de Rivoli.
Day 6: Paris – Versailles – Tours
Explore the grandeur and rich history of the Palace of Versailles, an iconic symbol of French royalty. Wander through its opulent halls adorned with refined art and captivating design, experiencing centuries of royal heritage. The vast gardens, a masterpiece of landscape architecture, captivate with their symmetrical beauty. A visit to Versailles is not just a tour; it’s an immersive experience into the grand and distant royal past of French palaces.
From Versailles, travel to the city of Tours, approximately 124 miles away, where you’ll spend the next 4 nights. In the evening, take the opportunity to explore the historic city and stroll through the streets around its impressive cathedral.
Day 7: Tours – Chenonceaux – ZooParc de Beauval
Discover the captivating allure and intriguing history of Château de Chenonceaux, an absolute must-visit destination. Gracefully spanning the Cher River, this elegant castle provides panoramic views of exceptional architecture and splendid gardens. Delve into its rich history, shaped by influential women who have left their imprint on its legacy. The castle’s rooms are filled with cultural treasures, art, furniture, and decorative arts, each room exuding its unique charm.
After visiting the castle, head to ZooParc de Beauval, a fantastic world of wildlife wonders from around the globe. Home to rare species, including giant pandas, big cats, predators, and numerous other fascinating creatures, the zoo offers a mesmerizing and educational experience for visitors of all ages, with a commitment to conservation and impressive natural breeding habitats.
Day 8: Tours – Poitiers – Futuroscope – Tours
Futuroscope offers a fascinating journey of sensory experiences into the future. This unique park combines technology, entertainment, and innovation, leading visitors on an exciting adventure through innovative multimedia experiences, 3D and 4D shows, thrilling attractions, and nature films that engage all your senses. Interactive exhibitions spotlight advancements in science, technology, and entertainment, creating a place where imagination meets technology, providing an exciting and educational adventure for families, technology enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the possibilities of tomorrow’s world.
Day 9: Tours – Parc des Mini-Châteaux – Amboise
Discover the world of Parc des Mini-Châteaux, a delightful attraction that presents miniature replicas of approximately 40 historical and renowned castles from the region and beyond. Stroll among these charming recreations, delving into the unique architectural heritage of each castle. It’s a fascinating and educational experience for both children and adults, offering insights into diverse architectural styles and the history of magnificent structures.
After the visit to the park, travel to Amboise. This charming town along the Loire River exudes an air of royal charm. Explore the streets near the castle’s cliffs and visit a local winery. Amboise is known for being the likely resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years there and is possibly buried in its chapel. The castle is rich in historical stories, and the panoramic view overlooking the town and river is breathtaking.
Day 10: Paris – Château de Chambord
Château de Chambord, located about 44 miles from the city of Tours, is a magnificent masterpiece of grand proportions. Its architectural splendor and brilliance leave an indelible impression on every visitor. This iconic castle was designed in the unique French Renaissance style, and its impressive facade radiating grandeur, spacious rooms, and the double helix staircase – Leonardo da Vinci’s ingenious creation – bear witness to the era’s opulence and innovation. Explore its vast expanse where royal turrets and ornamented artifacts transport you back to the 16th-century French monarchy. Don’t miss the exhibit on the palace’s chimneys on the entrance floor.
Following the castle visit, we will make our way back to Paris, approximately 112 miles away.
