14 Best Family-Friendly Activities in France
True, France may be a top destination for honeymoons or girls’ trips. But with its vast history and geography, France abounds with activities and destinations for all ages. Whether you have little ones or teens, there are activities for every age category. If you’re on the hunt for a family-friendly trip to France, let us help. From rafting to horseback riding, cooking classes to boat rides, France is full of thrilling activities fit for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for activities ideal for kids or teens in your crew, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite family-friendly activities in France.
14 Best Family-Friendly Activities in France
Paris Family Activities
Private Seine Boat Cruise
From the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame, take in the best sights of Paris from the comfort of a private cruise. Float down the Seine River en famille while nibbling on croissants and sipping coffee and juice. No need to worry about beating crowds or tired kiddos – just getting up close and personal with some of the major hallmarks of Paris.
Street Art Tour and Initiation
If your teens are keen on street art, this private tour in Paris’ 14th arrondissement is for you. In this under-the-radar neighborhood, your guide will take your family through the street-art filled streets in the Buttes-aux-Cailles. Get acquainted with street artists including Invader, Jace and Aerosol. After scouting out some of the best murals in the neighborhood, you and your kids will have the chance to try it yourself with a graffiti art initiation.
Side-Car Tour of Bohemian Paris
Metros are cool, and trains are alright. But seeing Paris from a side-car takes an entire new level! Children will love seeing the city from the comfort of a Gentleman Siders’ side car. Your guide will drive you through the cobblestones of the Montmartre neighborhood and give you a privileged view of sites such as Sacré Coeur and the Place du Tertre.
Family Cooking Class in Paris
Nothing says family bonding like concocting different ingredients to create a scrumptious dish. Get the whole family involved with measuring and mixing – and tasting, of course! The chef will help you prepare a dish together and discover the wonders of French cuisine for yourself.
Paradox Museum in Paris
For those with children who aren’t content to simply observe but crave an interactive museum experience, we have the address for you. The Paradox Museum in Paris is ideal for family members of all ages with its optical illusions and hands-on experiences.
French Riviera Family Activities
Private Yacht Cruise
Dive head-first into the beauty of the French Riviera with a private yacht cruise as a family. Your skipper will show you some of the region’s highlights from the red-rocked Esterel massif to the stunning Cap Roux. Located off the coast of Cannes, the Lérins islands promise epic Mediterranean views. Whether you want to snorkel or sunbathe, there’s something to please each family member. You can choose to dine aboard or perhaps test one of the beach clubs ashore.
Private Family Photo Session
Did someone say Christmas card opportunity? During your vacation on the French Riviera, book a session with a local photographer and capture priceless memories as a family. With French Side Travel, your personal professional photographer can meet you at your hotel, on a tour or at the beach to photograph your family. Your photo session will include access to a private online gallery of the best shots.
Canyoning in the French Riviera
If your family is on the hunt for an adventurous activity, consider a day dedicated to canyoning in the French Riviera. We’ll take care of the logistics: helmets, harnesses and a local mountain guide. In the Gorges du Loup, discover the wild side of the French Riviera with its waterfalls, pools, and rock formations. Whether you and your teens are beginners or seasoned canyoners, we’ll find the route adapted to your wishes.
Sunset Yoga Session
Calling all teens looking to work on their flexibility and get the best Instagram shots. This teens-only yoga session in Villefranche-sur-Mer is an ideal way to get moving all while enjoying the breath-taking views.
French Alps
Rafting Tour in Chamonix
The French Alps is praised for its powdery slopes in the wintertime but also boasts year-round attractions. If your kids and teens love an adrenaline rush, this private rafting tour is sure to excite. Experience the beauty of the Chamonix Valley by white-water rafting down the Arve River. Marvel at the exclusive views of Mont Blanc as you embark on this adventure fit for the whole family.
Via Ferrata Tour “Les Évettes” in the Alps
Kids and teens craving an outdoor adventure will fall in love with this private Via Ferrata tour. This activity marries hiking, ropes courses and climbing all into one. Revel in the majesty of the French Alps from a bird’s eye view. Your mountain guide will assist with safety and instructions so that your family can fully take in the moment on this half-day tour.
Annecy Food Tour
Not everyone in the family may like museums or hikes, but one thing is sûr et certain : everyone likes to eat! But finding meals that suit every eater can be tricky. On this private food tour in Annecy, we’re sure to appeal to the stomachs of each and every traveler. With at least five stops, this activity includes taste tests of charcuterie, hearty tartiflette, cheese and beyond. Fall in love with not only the architecture and history of Annecy but also its rich gastronomy.
Corsica
Horseback Riding in Corsica
Soak in the beauty of this Mediterranean French island as you gallop horseback as a family. Your trail will guide you through elm and eucalyptus forests and colorful flowers along the Sagone River. No need to be a professional; however, this activity is best suited for kids age 5 and older.
Catamaran Cruise and Picnic
Spend a paradisal day at sea as a family on this private catamaran cruise. Your skipper will take you to an exclusive cove in Corsica. With the boat docked, the choice is yours: snorkeling, swimming or sunbathing. Enjoy a boatside picnic and unlimited beverages.
Where to Stay in France
Les Mouettes in Ajaccio
Find respite during your family vacation to Corsica at this four-starred hotel in Ajaccio. This 19th century villa offers 27 rooms and a private beach. At Les Mouettes, kids and teens will especially appreciate its paddle boards, pool, and bikes available to guests.
Hotel Le Bristol in Paris
This five-star hotel will win over the hearts of both kids and parents. A stone’s throw away from the Champs-Élysées, Hotel le Bristol boasts a rooftop pool with Eiffel Tower views. Along with its gastronomic restaurants, the hotel also has special surprises for their youngest guests, including a welcome gift.
These family-friendly activities in France are just the tip of the iceberg. Wanting to book one of these activities for your kids? Or looking for something specific for your crew that you didn’t see on the list? Say no more — contact one of our travel specialists today to start planning the family trip of a lifetime. You might also like: Riviera Elegance: A Luxurious Escape to Saint-Tropez or Family Trip to Paris.