9-Day Classic Family Adventure: France for All Ages
France is a wonderland for families, offering a perfect blend of history, gourmet treats, and world-class infrastructure. This 9-day route focuses on the 'Classic Route,' taking you from the iconic streets of Paris to the enchanting châteaux of the Loire Valley, ending in the gastronomic heart of Lyon. We have prioritized stroller-accessible paths and relaxed schedules to ensure everyone from toddlers to grandparents enjoys the journey.
Traveling through France with children is surprisingly seamless thanks to the high-speed TGV train network and abundance of public parks. This itinerary balances famous landmarks with interactive museums and outdoor play, ensuring that the 'City of Light' and the 'Garden of France' leave a lasting impression on your little explorers.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Paris, France - Arrival & Gentle Exploration
Arrival at Charles de Gaulle
Touch down in Paris and take a pre-booked private transfer to your hotel. This avoids the stairs and crowds of the RER train with heavy luggage and strollers.
Check-in and Lunch
Settle into your hotel in the 15th Arrondissement, a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood near the Eiffel Tower.
Champ de Mars Playground
Let the kids run free at the playgrounds directly beneath the Eiffel Tower while you enjoy the iconic view without the stress of a long queue on day one.
Seine River Cruise
Board a Bateaux Parisiens cruise for a 1-hour tour. It’s the easiest way to see Notre Dame and the Louvre without walking miles.
Day 2: Paris, France - Icons & Carousels
Eiffel Tower Summit
Take the elevator to the second floor for breathtaking views. Be sure to book tickets weeks in advance to avoid 3-hour waits.
Trocadéro Carousel
Cross the bridge to Trocadéro for a ride on one of the most beautiful carousels in Paris, featuring classic horses and views of the tower.
Cité des Enfants
Located in the Parc de la Villette, this interactive science museum is divided into age-appropriate zones (2-7 and 5-12 years).
Casual Dinner in Le Marais
Explore the flat, stroller-friendly streets of Le Marais and enjoy a world-famous falafel at L'As du Fallafel.
Day 3: Paris, France - Art & Gardens
Jardin des Tuileries
Start your morning in these formal gardens. Children will love the large trampoline park and the pond where you can rent wooden sailboats.
Louvre Highlights Tour
Don't try to see it all. Focus on the Egyptian mummies and the Winged Victory—exhibits that usually capture children's imaginations.
Hot Chocolate at Angelina
A short walk from the Louvre, this historic tea room serves the thickest, most delicious hot chocolate in the world.
Sunset at Sacré-Cœur
Take the funicular up to the top of Montmartre to avoid the stairs, and watch the street performers in Place du Tertre.
Day 4: Amboise, France - Into the Loire Valley
TGV to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps
Catch a high-speed train from Paris Montparnasse. It’s just over an hour, making it an easy transition for kids.
Check-in at Amboise
Amboise is a charming, walkable town that serves as the perfect base for exploring the central Loire châteaux.
Château Royal d'Amboise
Explore the residence of French kings. The gardens offer plenty of space for children to wander safely.
Creperie Dinner
Enjoy savory galettes and sweet crepes at a local creperie—a guaranteed hit with picky eaters.
Day 5: Amboise, France - Leonardo's Legacy
Château du Clos Lucé
The former home of Leonardo da Vinci. The park is filled with life-sized interactive models of his inventions that kids can actually play with.
Picnic by the Loire River
Pick up fresh cheese, baguettes, and fruit from the Amboise Market (Sundays) for a relaxed riverside lunch.
Mini-Châteaux Park
Just outside Amboise, this park features 44 of the Loire's famous castles built at a 1/25th scale, perfect for children to explore.
Amboise Town Walk
Explore the pedestrianized shopping streets and find the best local gelato at Amorino.
Day 6: Lyon, France - Heading South
Drive to Lyon
A scenic 4-hour drive through central France. Stop in the town of Bourges for a quick stretch and to see the cathedral.
Parc de la Tête d'Or
Lyon's massive city park features a free zoo, a lake with boat rentals, and several vintage carousels.
Check-in at Part-Dieu
This area is modern, flat, and located near the main train station, making it very convenient for stroller navigation.
Dinner at a Bouchon
Try a traditional Lyonnaise 'Bouchon,' but look for 'Bouchon Lyonnais' certified spots for the most authentic experience.
Day 7: Lyon, France - Puppets & Passages
Vieux Lyon Exploration
Walk through the 'Traboules' (hidden passageways). Kids will feel like they are in a secret spy movie as they navigate the tunnels.
Guignol Puppet Show
Guignol is a traditional Lyonnaise puppet. Catch a show at the Théâtre le Guignol de Lyon—it’s slapstick fun even if you don't speak French.
Fourvière Funicular
Take the ancient funicular ('the string') up to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for the best view of the city.
Musée des Confluences
A striking modern building at the meeting of two rivers, this science and anthropology museum is incredibly engaging for children.
Day 8: Annecy, France - The Alpine Venice
Regional Train to Annecy
A 2-hour train ride takes you to the edge of the Alps. The scenery is stunning and the ride is very smooth.
Lake Annecy Waterfront
Rent a pedal boat with a slide on Lake Annecy. The water is crystal clear and shallow near the shore, making it safe for kids.
Annecy Old Town
Wander the canal-lined streets and enjoy a giant scoop of Alpine ice cream from Glacier des Alpes.
Return to Lyon
Head back to Lyon on the evening train, watching the sunset over the French countryside.
Day 9: Lyon, France - Final Flavors & Farewell
Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
Visit this legendary indoor food market. It’s clean, organized, and the perfect place to buy gourmet souvenirs like pralines or cheese.
Rhône Riverbank Walk
The banks of the Rhône have been converted into a massive park with modern climbing structures and playgrounds.
Departure Preparation
Head to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport via the Rhônexpress tram, which is stroller-friendly and takes just 30 minutes from the city center.
Flight Home
Board your flight home, cherishing the memories of a French adventure that was fun for the whole family.
Best Time to Visit France
For families, the best time to visit France is during the shoulder seasons of late Spring (May to June) or early Autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild enough for long days of sightseeing without the blistering heat of July and August. You will also avoid the peak summer crowds, meaning shorter lines at attractions and more space for strollers on public transport.
Currency & Money
France uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards (specifically Visa and Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including for very small amounts at bakeries. However, it is always wise to carry about 20-50 Euros in cash for small carousels or boutique shops. Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is included in your bill, but rounding up to the nearest Euro or leaving 5% for exceptional service is always appreciated.
Getting Around France
Intercity travel in France is best done via the TGV (high-speed train) network. These trains are fast, comfortable, and usually feature family areas with more space and nearby restrooms. For exploring the Loire Valley, a rental car is highly recommended to reach the châteaux that are not served by public transport. Within cities like Paris and Lyon, the Metro and tram systems are efficient, though in Paris, be prepared for some stations to have stairs only; using the bus network is often easier with a stroller.
