10 Best Destinations in France for Families

The focus in France is on living life to the fullest and enjoying things of beauty…architecture, fashion, art and some of the world's best cuisine. From sophisticated Paris and the swanky Côte d’Azur, to the breathtaking French Alps and beyond, there is much to explore in this proud and diverse country. I asked some family travel bloggers to weigh in on their favorite towns, cities and regions to visit in France with kids. Need help deciding where to go in la belle France? Check out these 10 best destinations in France for families!

Family-friendly sites and activities abound in Paris, including the iconic Eiffel Tower (Photo credit: frenta, Depositphotos.com)

Paris – The City of Lights

Paris may have a reputation as being a city for lovers. But when my husband and I visited with our daughters, we discovered it's a wonderful family destination as well. There's something for everyone in Paris – history, art, famous landmarks, and fabulous food. Visiting the city's famous parks is a must when in Paris with children. Be sure to walk through Luxembourg Gardens and take your children for a spin on the old-fashioned carousel in Tuileries Gardens. A cruise on the Seine offers a unique perspective on the famous landmarks of Paris as well as a chance to rest weary legs after a busy day of walking. Finally, ascending the Eiffel Tower and taking in the view over Paris is something your kids will always remember.
– Lisa Goodmurphy, Gone with the Family

The Dordogne River with kids (Photo credit: Ciao Bambino)

Dordogne – Castles, Caves and Adventure Parks

Located in central France, Dordogne is a lesser-known gem for families. This town offers a huge variety of things to do and see. It has some of the oldest cave paintings in Europe, fantastic medieval castles perched over the Dordogne River, adventure parks that wow kids of all ages, and much more. Idyllic villages offer authentic self-catering accommodation options where families can live like locals for a week or more.
– Amie O'Shaunessy, Ciao Bambino

Montpellier's beautiful central square, La Place de la Comedie and the carousel (Photo credit: aaa187, Depositphotos.com)

Montpellier – Student City with Stunning Center Square

When considering where to go in France for families, do not overlook Montpellier. Located in the Languedoc region in the central south section of France, this student city is filled with universities aplenty and a youthful, hip vibe. (It's also where I studied abroad during my junior year of college!) The town’s large center square, La Place de la Comedie, is one of the prettiest you’ll find in all of Europe. The square is surrounded by cafes perfect for people-watching. La Comedie is flanked by a gorgeous opera house at one end and the tree-lined Esplanade Charles de Gaulle at the other.

Parents and young artists will appreciate Musee Fabre, a small but impressive art museum featuring works from the Renaissance to modern day. Then, take a stroll along Promenade Royale du Peyrou to see a statue of Louis XIV on horseback, Port du Peyrou (the town's refurbished arc de triomphe), and a Roman aqueduct and water tower.

For a break from historical and cultural sites, take the kids to the free local zoo, Montpellier Parc Zoologique. There, families can visit 128 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and more. In summer, the beaches just outside of town are filled with French and foreign tourists seeking sun and sand at a more affordable price than what can be found to the east along the French Riviera.
– Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas

Canal in beautiful Strasbourg, France (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)

Strasbourg – A Blend of French and German Cultures

Located just across from Germany along the Rhine River, Strasbourg is a picture-perfect, very walkable French city with a German accent. While in Strasbourg, be sure to do a walking tour of La Petite France. Arguably the cutest neighborhood in Europe, you won’t want to put the camera down.

Located in the Grande Île is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg, the second-tallest cathedral tower in France and the sixth tallest church in the world. It is undoubtedly Strasbourg's finest architectural highlight and a must see when visiting the city.

Strasbourg is also filled with great restaurants and brasseries. Be sure to try some local favorites like a tarte flambée, an Alsatian take on pizza. It’s best to wander the streets and find a place with an outdoor patio where the kids can play in the courtyard. Every morning, try a different bakery in the square for some of the best cafe au lait served with a kugelhopf, an Alsatian brioche cooked in the shape of a crown.
– Nicole Wears, Traveling Canucks

Snowy fun at Les Arcs Ski Resort in Savoie (Photo credit: Nichola West)

Les Arcs – Snowy Mountain Adventures

The French Alps make a beautiful destination for families to ski together and have fun, with breathtaking mountains everywhere, including the majestic Mont Blanc. My family loved our time at Les Arcs ski resort in Bourg-Saint-Mourice, Savoie. In addition to skiing, families can toboggan down the slopes on a run for children ages 4 and upwards. Take a swim in the pool at Mille 8 in Arc 1800's Aquaffun, a water park featuring waterslides, fun fountains for kids and amazing views of the skiers and mountains beyond. Then warm up in mountainside restaurants with traditional cheese fondue. End your day by gathering around bonfires for toasting marshmallows.
– Nichola West, Globalmouse Travels

The medieval town of Albertville Savoie (Photo credit: javax_ber, Depositphotos.com)

Albertville – Olympic and Medieval History

Also located in the Savoie region of France, Albertville is best known as the site of the 1992 Winter Olympics, but the city's roots go as far back as 14^th century medieval Europe. Remnants of both the Olympics and the age of castles still remain in a pastoral setting that is surrounded by mountains.

The site of the Olympic stadium is now an open air park where citizens congregate for outdoor play. A winter olympics museum in the center of town features costumes, medal stands, and other collectibles from the games.

The cobbled streets and narrow alleyways that were traveled centuries ago remain the same today in Albertville, giving visitors a snapshot into a medieval city. The Maison Rouge, a 14^th century brick building houses a historical museum, is a highlight at the center of the city.

For a full sensory experience, follow your nose to the Beaufort Cheese Factory where a museum display guides children in the process of making soft Beaufort cheese. Visitors can view the factory from the elevated gallery to see the large wheels of cheese at various stages of production. Samples and products of every kind are available to purchase in the gift shop.
– Jessica Bowers, Suitcases and Sippy Cups

Families love playing at the beach in Nice, France (Photo credit: gianliguori, Depositphotos.com)

Nice – Queen of the French Riviera

Nice is the main hub on the beautiful Côte d’Azur, or French Riviera. It feels small for such a large city and is very walkable. It's a great idea to base your family in Nice while you explore the surrounding areas (like Monaco and Villefranche). Nice has beautiful Belle Époque architecture, miles of beach on the Mediterranean and lot to see and do.

With 300 days of sunshine a year, the best things to do in Nice with kids are outside. Walk the Promenade Anglais and soak up the beachfront atmosphere before taking a dip in the water. Then visit one of the best playgrounds in the world at the Promenade du Paillon. Before leaving town, you must indulge in an ice cream from the famous Fenocchio's; there are upwards of 70 flavors on offer at this French classic.
– Bethaney Davies, Flashpacker Family

Children love to splash in the mirror fountain in front of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France (Photo credit: dvoevnore, Depositphotos.com)

Bordeaux – UN World Heritage Site City

Bordeaux is a city that will instantly make families feel comfortable. Yet it still has that je ne sais quoi that makes it feel distinctly French. Take a historic self-guided walking tour, as the entire city center is a designated UN World Heritage Site. Along the way, you'll pass plenty of carousels and big open squares for playtime. Also visit the Chartrons Market for amazingly fresh French food. The roast chicken and macarons were favorites of my kids. And don't forget to leave time to splash around in the water in front of the Place de la Bourse (or Royal Square). Located 300 miles southwest of Paris, Bordeaux is ideal for day trips to the beach or into the countryside for winery visits, several of which are geared toward families.
– Nicole Wiltrout, Arrows Sent Forth

Omaha Beach War Memorial of fallen soldiers in Normandy, France (Photo credit: merc67, Depositphotos.com)

Normandy – Unforgettable Lessons in World War II History

Normandy is a great place to teach and remember world history for adults and kids. While in this region, be sure and stop by the Caen Memorial Museum, which will give your family the history lessons you need to know. Then take a trip to each of the American, Canadian and British beaches well known during the war: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. Finally, you need to go to the American Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, the final resting place of almost 10,000 soldiers who died in this region during the war.
– Cacinda Maloney, Points and Travel

Museum of Lavender in the town of Coustellet in the Luberon (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)

Luberon – Ultimate in Provencal Charm

If you have ever read A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle, you have longed to enjoy the languid days and local warmth of Provence. Luberon is the primary Provençal setting of the series. You won't be disappointed with a visit to this region of hilltop villages.

From its namesake river that encircles the town to fountains and watermills, water seems to be everywhere in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (translated as Island on the Sorgue River). This town is home to a darling antique toy and doll museum that will intrigue kiddos.

Also in Luberon, Gordes is a picturesque town cut into the side of a mountain with a gorgeous view of the verdant valleys of Provence below. Weave in and out of the town’s darling shops that sell decorative ceramics, packets of herbes de Provence, and other French goodies.

Meanwhile, amid a fragrant field of purple flowers, the Museum of Lavender in Coustellet is worth a visit to purchase any manner of lavender-themed souvenirs.
– Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas

Book Your French Family Vacation

No matter where you choose to go in France for families, you're sure to find tempting things to taste, see and do. Have we convinced you yet? Book your France Package Holiday with Expedia now!

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Before you go, read tips for visiting my French college town, Montpellier. If you're planning on visiting Paris, you must check out my tips for exploring Paris with kids and all you need to know about Disneyland Paris.

Which of these destinations in France for families appeals to you most? Why? Let us know in the comments below.

A Note from Travel Mamas: This post is brought to you in partnership with Expedia.co.uk.