There’s a reason why families return to France year after year, this country, the largest country in Western Europe, offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip and wondering where the best places are in France for families then you are spoiled for choice.

From the windswept beaches of Brittany to the sun-drenched sands of the South of France there are beach holidays aplenty, which always makes for easy family travel. You could even choose to hire a boat in France and explore the coast that way. Truly one of the best things about France is just how diverse it is.

If it’s mountains you’re after then France also delivers with brilliant winter sports options, as well as hiking and biking trails in summer and mountain lake swims.

There are pretty villages galore, fascinating medieval cities and more historic sites and famous landmarks than you will ever have time to visit. And of course there’s Paris, the elegant capital famed for its food, fashion, art and literature.

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The above map is designed to help you locate the destinations in France listed below, colour-coded by region.

France with kids

We’ve been visiting France with kids for a long time and each time we go we find somewhere new to visit. It’s an easy place to travel and there are myriad destinations for the whole family to enjoy.

July and August are peak holiday time in France so if you’re planning to visit over the summer holidays then make sure to book well in advance and be aware that prices might be higher than at other times of year. If you’re travelling from the UK then France makes a great half-term destination too, easily accessed and the possibility of some winter sun if you head far enough down south or snow if you go to the Alps. Christmas brings markets and places like Lille and Amiens are famed for their festive celebrations.

This guide is a starting point for planning family holidays in France and shares some of our favourite places to enjoy with kids.

Paris

You can’t plan a family trip to France and not visit Paris. The capital city of France is a brilliant place for children, jam-packed with museums, monuments, gardens, amusement parks and more. It’s the perfect place for an urban family adventure.

The obvious Paris sights include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame de Paris. But there are plenty of other things to do in Paris with kids in addition to these star attractions. And, if you’re wondering what the kids think, take a look at this post written by a 10-year-old about his favourite things to do in Paris.

All kids will love a day at Luxembourg Gardens, considered to be one of the most beautiful parks in the capital. They’ll also enjoy trips to the Museum of Hunting and Nature and the Palais de Tokyo. Make sure you factor in time to visit the beautiful ‘I Love You Wall’ and a macaroon baking class at Chez Bogato too. Plus, the capital’s colourful neighbourhoods hide myriad cafes and restaurants serving some of the best food in the world.

Don’t forget that Disneyland Paris is nearby – although we much prefer Asterix Park!

Around Paris – Park Asterix

If you’re planning to visit Paris then make sure to put aside a day at least to visit Parc Asterix. This theme park is based on the French comic book series Asterix (or The Adventures of Asterix) that were first published in 1959 in France and are still phenomenally popular to this day.

Asterix Park, which is ranked as the 10th most visited theme parks in Europe, home to 42 attractions spread out across six different worlds all relating to the comic books. The six zones all have a variety of rides for kids of all ages. There are scream-inducing roller coasters and brilliant water park-type log flumes as well as gentle rides for younger kids. There really is something for everyone – access to rides is dictated by height. You can check the park’s app to see what height restrictions there might be. There are also measuring charts at the entrance to most rides.

Located just 40 minutes from Paris, the park is a popular day trip so expect queues for the more popular rides. Fortunately there is a FastTrack app, called Filotomatix that allows you to ski the line, handy if you don’t have much time.

If you want to spend longer at the park then there are three hotels on site to choose from. The newest, and arguably the best, is Les Quais de Lutèce, an award-winning hotel model on the city of Lutetia, as Paris was known while under occupation by the Romans and Julius Caesar.

French Alps & The Jurra Mountains

Annecy

The Alpine city of Annecy is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in France. Located in the Haute-Savoie region in the south east of France, this good-looking town sits at the tip of an aquamarine lake of the same name, Lake Annecy, surrounded by the snowcapped French Alps.

This is one of the best places in France to come for outdoor adventure, in particular water sports. Lake Annecy is the star of the show here and offers all manner of activities from diving, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding to sailing, kayaking or simply travelling by water taxi to enjoy lunch on the lake’s shores.

Don’t miss the old town while here, the other main attraction. Pretty cobblestoned streets and pastel-coloured houses lead to the Palais de L’Ile, the city’s most recognisable building, and up to the Chateau. Don’t miss the markets held weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Discover the best of Annecy in one day with this itinerary 

Les Gets

One place that we return to again and again is the Franco-Swiss Portes du Soleil region, which offers 600km of excellent slopes for a winter ski holidays and plenty of activities in summer. Numerous villages pepper the area; some are modern and purpose-built and others began life as traditional farming villages.

Les Gets (pronounced ‘les jeh’) is one such traditional village. In winter, the resort is busy with skiers and boarders heading off to tackle the slopes. Summer in Les Gets, however, is even livelier, with mountain bikers racing along downhill tracks, families picnicking by the Lac des Ecoles and visitors wandering the enchanted night forest walk at the newly opened Alta Lumina.

Some of the best things to do in Les Gets in the summer include mountain biking and hiking but there’s lots to do if you want a slightly less active holiday too. You can try pottery lessons or a foraging walk in nearby Morzine. There’s the wonderfully quirky Museum of Mechanical Instruments and weekly markets. Plus, Les Gets is just a really lovely town to wander around with some excellent restaurants. 

Morzine

Morzine is a ski resort that forms part of the Les Portes du Soleil, a major ski area in the Alps. This ski area covers 12 resorts positioned between Mont Blanc in France and Lake Geneva in Switzerland. It’s a hugely popular winter playground, with some fantastic skiing to offer everyone from first-time skiers to those who like to go off-piste. But as brilliant as it is in the winter months, Morzine makes for a magical summer destination.

What was once a traditional farming village is now a popular holiday destinations – for both British and French families – with lots of things to do.

Spend your days walking in the mountains or riding down them on a mountain bikes. Swim in Alpine lakes or take a dip in the outdoor 50m swimming pool. There are zip wires and a luge; adventure parks and riding stables. There’s even a village populated by goats!

Above all, however, Morzine is beautiful. It’s a classic French farming illage that has developed into a popular ski and summer resort without losing any of its charm. Come here for the fresh mountain air, the excellent food and the chance to spend some quality family time together. This guide to Morzine tells you all you need to know, including how to go wild camping! 

Arc 1950

Arc 1950 is a purpose-built ski resort and one of four villages that makes up the resort of Les Arcs. Unlike many purpose-built resorts, however, Arc 1950 is full of character. It’s been designed to resemble a traditional Savoyard village and is absolutely charming.

Arc 1950 is a wonderful place to ski but in summer it really comes alive and is the most wonderful place for a family holiday in the mountains. Kids are a big deal here and there’s a jam-packed calendar of events for children young and old, with many of them on offer for free.

There’s also some great walking opportunities and the chance to learn to ride a mountain bike as well as golfing, paragliding, and fishing opportunities – and more! Plus, the resort is entirely pedestrianised with all shops and restaurants within close walking distance. 

Les 2 Alpes

Located in the heart of the Osians region in France, Les 2 Alpes is one of the highest ski resorts in France. Seventy per cent of the ski area is above 2,000. The resort sits at 1,650m and the glacier reaches a peak of 3,600m. What this means is that Les 2 Alpes is a great place for family skiing in France in both winter and summer.

The top of the glacier offers blue and red runs groomed to perfection. For beginners this means soft snow and amazing panoramic views. Plus the real feeling of actually being on the mountain.

More advanced skiers will love the feeling of carving on perfect conditions. If you fancy a challenge, hire a guide and go off-piste in the nearby La Grave area.

The name of the ski resort refers not to the mountains themselves but rather the two neighbouring villages of L’Alpe de Mont de Lans and L’Alpe de Venos. Collectively, they’re referred to as Les Deux Alpes. It’s a purpose-built resort so perhaps not as pretty as some of the traditional French villages turned ski resort. However, it’s worked hard to shed this image, cladding old concrete buildings in wooden panels.

Today it’s home to some excellent hotels, some fantastic restaurants, an excellent Après-Ski scene and plenty of activities in both summer and winter.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay then I can highly recommend the Hotel Chamois Lodge. It’s run by a young husband and wife team and they’ve done a fantastic job of transforming the hotel into a fun, quirky and welcoming place to stay. Plus, they have three family rooms that will each sleep five people. Another plus point, the hotel is right near the slopes.

Brittany 

Finistère

Finistère, on the western tip of Brittany, France has bucketloads to recommend it to family holidaymakers. Crustacean-filled bucketloads, in fact!

A lot of Finistere’s beaches, like Raguenez and Plage de Gwendrez, are a combination of wide sandy stretches, and large rocks. So when the youngsters have grown tired of making sandcastles they can go scrambling across the boulders, fishing for tiddlers, periwinkles and little crabs in the rock pools.

And it’s not just beaches that make Brittany family holidays a winner, Finistère has a wealth of day trips to offer too. Try the Glénan Archipelago, a set of stunning islands known as the ‘Caribbean of France’, or Oceanopolis, an aquarium in Brest with seven types of sharks, otters, rays, seals, giant turtles and a fish-petting area.

Like the rest of Brittany, in Finistère you’ll find lots of child-pleasing dishes, like crèpes (thin pancakes, eaten savoury or sweet, with a dusting of icing sugar, Nutella or fruit); galettes (sweet biscuits made with butter, a bit like shortbread) and delicately flavoured local apple juice. After the kids’ bedtime, the adults can tuck into the fresh, delicious local cider.

Chosen by Nell, Pigeon Pair and Me

Dinan

The perfectly preserved Medieval town of Dinan sits perched on a hillside overlooking the Rance river and valley. At one point it was an important city and trading centre; posts would sail downriver from nearby Saint-Malo and traders would unload their wares and transport them into town to sell. 

The main thoroughfare between the Port of Dinan and the heart of the city at that time was Rue du Jerzual, an incredibly steep street lined with half-timbered shops and houses. Still today this road is a popular thoroughfare but with tourists rather than traders. 

Dinan is a wonderful place to wander around with some incredible buildings still perfectly intact – some of them date back to the 14th century! There are lots of shopping opportunities, with artists and entrepreneurs inhabiting the ancient buildings showcasing local products and independent producers, from food to fashion. 

Away from Dinan itself, the Rance valley offers myriad cycling and walking opportunities. 

Normandy

Normandy is a great choice for a family holiday. It’s really easy to reach from the UK and there’s so much to see and do in the area with kids. You can visit Monet’s Garden at Giverny, explore Richard the Lionheart’s Castle at Les Andelys and find out all about Joan of Arc in Rouen, one of the most historic cities in France.

Normandy is jam-packed with charming medieval towns and beautiful beaches (try the ones at Deauville and Trouville). Whatever you do, don’t miss a trip to Honfleur – it’s one of the prettiest harbours in the world.

A walk along the white cliffs at Étretat is an easy way to admire some of the most spectacular scenery in France and be sure to introduce your children to some of the regions’s delicious food, from seafood fresh from the boat to creamy cheeses and scrumptious cakes.

Chosen by Clare, Suitcases and Sandcastles

Mont-Saint-Michel

The unforgettable Mont-Saint-Michel, a small island topped with a medieval abbey in Normandy, is a fantastic place to visit in France with kids.

The island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a scenic 45 minute walk or a short bus journey from the mainland and medieval gates welcome visitors to the Mont. The abbey, which was built in the 8th Century, is a steep climb through winding streets which are crammed with souvenir shops and eateries. It is is more than worth the climb and the views from the top are stunning.

We took a road trip from Paris and spent a few nights in the Le Relais Saint Michel, a family friendly hotel with fabulous views of Mont Saint Michel. Mont Saint Michel is also accessible by train: take a TGV to Rennes and then to Pontorson-Mont St Michel and, from there, buses service Mont Saint Michel.

When visiting the Mont make sure to start your visit early in the day to avoid the peak crowds. The island is not stroller friendly so make sure to bring a carrier or be prepared to carry younger kids who might get tired. It’s best to buy a ticket to the abbey in advance as Mont Saint Michel is extremely popular.

Elaine and Dave, Show Them the Globe

Arronmanches Les Bain

A family vacation to Normandy includes pristine beaches, rugged coastline, lovely countryside and more educational experiences than travelers can imagine.

If World War II history is on the agenda, Arronmanches Les Bain is a great place to begin introducing kids to it. The remnants of Mulberry Harbor can still be seen in this small beach community. The artificial port allowed the rapid offloading of supplies after D-Day.

Visit the Musee du Debarquement to learn more about the crucial role of this harbor. It also has many dioramas, models and artifacts that are helpful in making this history accessible to kids. Youngsters can even ask earnest questions like one of mine did, “Do you still find stuff from the war on the beach?”

While many historic sites are tied to D-Day, the allied invasion during World War II, there is one place where images of noblemen and ladies still rule the day. Miraculously, the medieval town of Bayeux escaped the war intact, despite large-scale destruction in surrounding areas. Walk the cobblestone streets of the town’s center and look up at the spires of the Bayeux Cathedral dedicated in 1077. It’s amazing that it all still stands.

By Kristine, Trekaroo

The Loire Valley

Puy du Fou, Vendee

There’s a reason over two million people flock to Puy du Fou every year – this theme park with a difference is somewhere that’s perfect for families.

Firstly, don’t expect rollercoasters or rides that you’d usually associate with theme parks: the focus here is on huge spectacles and immersive experiences.

The shows tell the history of France in such a way that you’ll spend a lot of your visit gasping with amazement. Think a Viking ship rising from the lake, people apparently vanishing and reappearing in an instant, hundreds of trained birds flying and the chance to virtually cross the ocean on board a ship. There are stunts and pyrotechnics galore and fantastic light shows.

Some shows are better for older kids, including an incredibly moving recreation of a First World War trench. But there’s plenty to delight younger ones as well who’ll be caught up in the drama and effects as much as their parents. Plus, there’s the chance to wander through the themed villages and watch craftspeople at work.

Unlike most theme parks, there’s also fantastic food – this is France, after all – and some great places to stay on site. These also have a historical theme, so you could check in to a castle, medieval style tents or waterfront wooden lodges with thatched roofs. If you’re travelling on a budget, you can also park camper vans for a small fee, with access to electricity and water.

Chosen by Cathy, Mummy Travels

Northern France

Lille

The pretty city of Lille is the capital of the Hauts-de-France region and is the perfect destination for a long weekend break from the UK. The Eurostar runs from London St Pancras and arrives in the centre of Lille 1 hour and 22 minutes later.

There are lots of things to do in Lille  and much of it is kid friendly too. There are world-class museums, a month-long Christmas market and the biggest flea market in Europe, La Grande Braderie de Lille.

Especially good for younger children is Cita Park, a mini amusement park home to 18 rides including spinning tulip cups and flying chairs. Lille Zoo is also popular with kids. If you’re travelling with older kids then don’t miss a ride through Vieux Lille in an open-top 2CV. There’s no better way to learn about the city and its history than to bounce around the cobbled streets in one of these iconic French cars.

The other reason to add Lille as a stop on your trip to France is for the food. In particular, the pastries. Lille is famous for Les Petits Merveilleux, roughly translated as “the little marvels”.

The other treat you must try is the Gaufre Fourrée de Lille. This thin waffle-sandwich filled with vanilla cream was apparently a favourite with President de Gaulle and even Winston Churchill.

Saint-Valery-Sur-Somme

Located in the heart of the Picardy coastline on the Hauts-de-France coast is Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. This pretty town is a wonderful place for a short break (it’s just over 100km from Calais) or a longer stay.

Filled with history and packed full of character there is lots to see and do here. This is where William the Conqueror put together his fleet before sailing off to England and where Joan of Arc spent her final days before being taken to Rouen where she was burned at the stake.

Some of the best things to do here including searching for seals – the Somme Bay is home to the largest seal colony in France – cycling around the coast, riding on an old steam train, and exploring the bay on foot, when the tide allows. The town itself is a joy to explore; the ancient Medieval Quarter is filled with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses and the narrow lanes and whitewashed houses in the Fishermen’s Quarter are utterly charming.

Don’t forget to try the traditional sweet treat while here, Gateau Battu.

Calais

Calais often gets overlooked by visitors who race through from the ferry terminal on their way to sunnier corners of France. But the city of Calais, has had quite the image overhaul in recent years and there are now lots of reasons to spend a day or longer here. 

The Calais seafront is where you’ll see the biggest change; what was once an OK beach but rather uninspiring beachfront has undergone an enormous and expensive renovation and now looks top notch. The beach is sparkling, there’s a wooden boardwalk and a ‘solarium’ with deckchairs for soaking up the sun and the views of the White Cliffs of Dover across the English Channel. There’s also an Olympic-sized skate park to enjoy. 

What’s more, Calais is now home to a dragon. Built by the same company that created the magical mechanical creatures in Nantes in Brittany, the compagnie du dragon, comes the Calais Dragon (Le Dragon de Calais), a walking, smoke-breathing, enormous dragon who likes to amble along Calais, la Plage, the Calais seafront. Make sure to book a ticket a hitch a ride along the seafront on its back! 

Ardennes

Between Champagne and the northern border with Belgium lies France’s greenest department, the French Ardennes. Popular with locals but not as well-known with tourists, this area of outstanding natural beauty is sometimes referred to as the quiet corner of France.

In Ardennes you can listen to rushing rivers and birds singing. A third of the region is covered in forest and the gorgeous Meuse and Semoy Valleys and their meandering rivers just add to the beauty.

The Ardennes is a natural playground and perfect for visiting with kids. Cycling, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, riding, sailing and zip wires are readily available at reasonable prices.

There are also charming towns to visit and local gastronomy to try. Local artisan beer is making a comeback. A world-famous puppet festival – the largest of its kind in the world – takes place every two years in Charleville-Mézières.

The Ardennes is not far from the UK and can be easily reached by car or high-speed TGV in about 3 and 1/3 hours from Calais. This post has more tips on family activities in this gorgeous region of natural beauty.

Chosen by Susanna, A Modern Mother

Alsace & Lorraine

Strasbourg

There are so many amazing towns and regions that are perfect for a family trip in France, but the Alsace region, and the city of Strasbourg in particularly, is one of our favourite places to visit.

Strasbourg is one of the most picturesque towns in France, with the typical half-timbered houses that make you feel like you stepped into a fairytale. If you come in summer, you’ll find the city full of flowers hanging over the balconies, street lanterns, and bridges. In winter, the town is beautifully lit and holds one of the best Christmas Markets in France.

Kids – big and small – will love wandering through the maze of the narrow streets, lined with colourful buildings and local crafts and food stores that are just impossible to resist! Get your kids a pretzel while you enjoy some of the local white wine from the typical Alsace wine glasses with a green stem.

One of the absolute highlights for our kids was climbing the bell tower of the Cathedral of Strasbourg. The views from the top are amazing and well worth the climb.

In high season, a boat trip is a must and is a good way to rest the little legs from all the walking. Make sure to wander a bit off the main tourist routes and visit some lesser-known places as well. Here you can find more ideas for what to do in Strasbourg with kids.

Accommodation. Strasbourg has a big range of hotels and accommodation for all budgets.

If you are traveling by train, you probably want to stay close to the railway station. If you come by car, make sure to look for a hotel with parking. For example, Best Western Plus Monopole Métropole is conveniently located and has family rooms.

Chosen by Jurga from Full Suitcase

Colmar

One of our favourite places to visit in France with kids is Colmar and its surrounding villages in the Alsace region. The area has so much history, having passed back and forth between France and Germany over the years but it’s the architecture that makes this area of France so special.

The towns and villages in this area of France are like real-life Disney movie sets. In fact, it’s said that the set of the Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast, is based on these villages. The colourful timber-framed chocolate box houses are so photogenic. Our favourite fairy tale villages in Alsace are Eguisheim, Kayersberg and Riquewihr.

The kids loved to wander around the narrow, cobbled streets, many of which are pedestrianised, and peer in the windows of the bakeries with their mouth-wateringly good displays. They also loved our visit to the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle which is actually one of the top tourist attractions in France.

We based ourselves in Colmar at the Pierre et Vacances Residence La Petite Venise, just on the edge of the Little Venice area. We chose it because it had decent sized family apartments with a kitchen so we could prepare our own breakfast before heading out for a day of sightseeing. The highlight for the kids though was the hotel swimming pool.

If you want to have a real-life Disney experience (minus the Disney rides), then you won’t be disappointed with this area of France.

Chosen by Jacquie, Flashpacking Family

The Dordogne, Limousin & The Lot

Limeuil

Beautifully situated at the confluence of the Vézère with the Dordogne River, the medieval village of Limeuil is easily one of the prettiest villages in France. Cobbled streets wind up through the honey-coloured houses hiding amongst the fortified walls. Narrow alleyways invite you to quaint doorways dressed in colourful bloom. Families tend to visit for wild swimming from the pebble beach, canoe hire to paddle along the river, and – an absolute must do if visiting the Dordogne with kids – the Gardens of Limeuil.

These magical gardens perch on the hill top overlooking the village and seem to be off the radar for so many visitors to the region. The gardens are beautifully laid out, with lots for kids to do along the way – yoga stretches, watching bees in hives, quizzes, potion making – and the views over the surrounding countryside are stunning.

There’s a campsite on the other side of the village perfectly geared to families. Bring your own tent or camper, or check in to one of the static mobile homes on site through Eurocamp. This is a small site, but kids will love the swimming pools and two separate playgrounds.

Chosen by Jenny, TraveLynn Family

Lot

We had one of our best holidays in the Lot staying in the most perfect family friendly Gite – Pagel with a swimming pool and several play areas on site.

It was also the perfect location for fun family day trips as there is so much to do and see in the area. Here are a few of our favourites;

Castelnaud; well known for its panoramic views over the beautiful Dordogne. Built on a rocky outcrop and is home to the Medieval Warfare collection which includes more than 250 weapons and armour which are on show. Around the foot of the Castle you will find several shops, bars and restaurants

Le Lac Vert, Catus: This lake is home to a man-made beach with sloping waters into the lake which makes it ideal for children to play in with grassed areas to sit and for children to run, and a good sized playground too. Alternatively, you can take a walk around the edge of the lake. There is also a café on site.

Cahors: Cahors is the Capital of the Lot department. The river which runs alongside Cahors and a bridge which you can walk across to a small cafe on the other side. There is a little train next to the Pont Valentre which runs around the town stopping at cafes, restaurants and a beautiful traditional Carousel.

Rocamadour: Rocamandouris a stunning, famous medieval village hanging off a cliff. A village which can be appreciated just as much from the road as the village itself. The village is home to shops and restaurants, a lovely place for an afternoon stroll.

Chosen by: Anna, Twins and Travels

Toulouse Region

Toulouse City

Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France. It’s often called the “pink city” because of its pretty terracotta brick buildings. Our family of four found Toulouse to be a fun city because of the easily navigable downtown core and great restaurants.

There are plenty of things to do in Toulouse with young kids. Start with the train ride through the downtown, a favourite for families as parents can learn about the city’s history and spot the cathedral and buildings they may want to explore later.

If you have aviation fans in your family you’ll definitely want to put Toulouse on your list. It’s Europe’s space capital, home to the Airbus museum and the Aeroscopia museum.

Toulouse highlights for us included the interesting street art and the Cité de l’Espace. Located about a 30 minute drive from the downtown area, the museum can lso be accessed by the great public transit system in the city. The Cité de l’Espace is a very hands-on and interactive museum where families will find all things space related accessible to kids.

When it comes to dining, Toulouse is home to popular restaurants like Michel Sarran and Chez Emile but our favourites were Chez Magda (for the steak frites and best darn apple pie) and Boli Cafe (as we were craving Asian cuisine half through our five month Europe trip).

We enjoyed a home exchange in the city but for families looking for a hotel experience there are many apartment hotels that cater to families looking for extra space. Or, take a look at these recommended family hotels.

Chosen by Yashy Murphy from ParentingToGo

Languedoc-Rousillon

Carcassonne

In the south of France, just a stone’s throw from the Pyrenees, sits the most complete medieval fort in Europe. Carcassonne’s walled castle sits high on a hill overlooking the rest of Carcassonne town and the plains for miles around.

Carcassonne’s medieval fort has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, and not always authentically. Despite that, it’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in France. It’s certainly unique as the castle is surrounded by a medieval village where you can easily lose yourself for a day.

Kids will love exploring Carcassonne as they can really let their imaginations loose. Walking the walls of the fort is a must, as the views over the surrounding countryside are stupendous. You can also visit the castle itself, although it’s mostly empty.

There are also several gruesome museums which older children will enjoy (beware of taking sensitive youngsters inside some of them) and other, more gentle attractions such as the school museum.

If you don’t want to explore the city yourself then you could take a guided tour led by a knight in armour, aimed at children. Be aware that Carcassonne gets really busy in the summer, so make sure you book tickets ahead.

Many people only visit Carcassonne for a day, but it’s worth spending a little more time in the area. The best place to stay in Carcassonne is in its medieval centre so you can look around the city after the day trippers have left. Try the Best Western for good value family rooms, or Hotel de la Cite if you’ve got a bit more cash to splash.

Emily, Kids and Compass

Quarante

The Languedoc-Roussillon region is one of the best parts of France for a family holiday. It’s a region associated with sunshine and the seaside but also famous for being France’s biggest producer of wine.

Languedoc offers large swathes of unspoilt countryside, picture perfect French villages and a wonderfully slow pace of life. Families can choose to base themselves on the coast at one of the holiday resorts such as la Grande Motte, Le Grau du Roi, Cap d’Agde or Valreas Plage. Or, they can move inland and hire a holiday home surrounded by gently rolling hills blanketed by vineyards.

One of the best places to stay in the region is Chateau Les Carrasses, an ancient French châteaux that has been transformed into a luxury destination for families. The building, which even in its most run-down state looked impressive, is now reminiscent of something out of the pages of a fairy-tale.

There are Rapunzel towers and witch-hat turrets, Juliet balconies and grand wooden shutters painted cornflower blue. Sun-filled patios dot the grounds, filled with the scent of lavender, honeysuckle and jasmine and there’s a beautiful greenhouse, reputedly designed by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the very same Eiffel!).

There are hotel rooms or family-friendly apartments to hire, a kids’ camp during high season and the opportunity to dine-in or self-cater. You’re also well placed to explore everything that the region has to offer.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur 

Les Baux-de-Provence

Families will love the magical village of Les Baux-de-Provence. Situated between Avignon and Marseille, it makes a great base from which to explore Provence, its warm winds scented by lavender and olive trees.

Kids will love the castle ruins at the top of this quaint and beautiful village. They can watch an authentically-huge catapult in action, fire a crossbow and watch craftsmen sculpt, make swords or create period clothing.

After meandering through the narrow cobblestone streets with their charming shops, families can check out the “Carrières des Lumières,” an unusual immersive experience where a famous artist’s masterpieces are projected onto the giant walls inside a large cave, shifting and changing to music – a great way to cool off!

Hiking around Les Baux-de-Provence rewards active folks with fabulous views of the surrounding countryside. This part of Provence is especially seductive, with charming villages, lavender fields and lively farmers markets.

A highly recommended treat nearby is the famous Roman aqueduct, the Pont du Gard. History and architecture buffs will be amazed by the feat, but be sure to save plenty of time for swimming, kayaking and ice cream underneath – recreation mostly enjoyed by local French families rather than tourists.

By Julia Slatcher, Inspire World Travel

Gordes, Provence

When visiting France, don’t miss Provence, especially the town of Gordes. Located just thirty minutes outside Avignon, it has been named one of the most beautiful villages in France. Visitors will enjoy this hilltop village with its stunning views, stone houses, and cobblestone streets.

Gordes is a perfect day trip if you are visiting Provence with kids. Families will enjoy the tiny art galleries, shops, and picture perfect picnic spots. Visit a local store and grab some olives, cheese, and seasonal produce.

Don’t miss the Village des Bories a couple of kilometres from town. These stone huts were home to local shepherds and goat herders through the 19th century. My family loved exploring all of the nooks and crannies in the village.

Another nearby sight is the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque. This Cisterian abbey founded in the 12th century is still a functioning monastery. Visitors are allowed into the church and outlying buildings but you’ll have to admire the surrounding lavender fields from afar. Lavender fields usually bloom from late June until early August, so keep this in mind if visiting during these times.

Most families will find accommodation options in Avignon or at gîtes (holiday homes) throughout the countryside. Gordes and the surrounding area is the perfect spot for families looking to slow down and enjoy a good mix of history and outdoor experiences.

Chosen by Kirsten Maxwell, Kids Are A Trip

Marseille

When I choose Marseille as a stop in the south of France, my two children and I when travelling by train in between Barcelona and Milan. I choose the city almost solely on the reason of where it was located. There’s a major train station in the city of Marseille that has a direct line from Barcelona.

Marseille looked like it would be a quiet, scenic place to recharge. Perhaps we would watch some boats go by while eating ice cream in the port area. What I didn’t realize is what an amazing and beautiful city Marseille was and how much there was to do there for families.

In our short time there, we travelled to Notre Dame de la Gard, the most visited site in Marseille. The exterior of the church is an architectural marvel. While we did not enter inside, the basilica is said to be stunning.

After wandering into a local soap shop (Marseille is famous for its soap) and having the best pizza we could ever ask for at a restaurant in the Vieux Port area (did you know Marseille is world renown for it’s gastronomy?), we managed to fit in a visit to The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. On the main floor is a library set up where the kids have an opportunity to sit and read.

And in the Vieux Port area? There are always street performers and we found a ton of entertainment. Every restaurant we tried was a hit. We took a ride in the ferris wheel that provided amazing sights of the city and we also found an old Venetian carousel for the kids to ride and I was able to take a breather with a latte.

We stayed at Aparthotel Adagio Marseille Vieux Port. For the three of us, a one-bedroom apartment with a King size bed was exactly what we needed. I was able to wash our clothing as we were travelling through Europe with carry-on bags only. It was a space where my son could make a fort with a couch and cushions and that made him happy.

The location of Aparthotel Adagio Marseille Vieux Port was an easy walk to the historic old port and there were so many great restaurants in the area to choose from.

Kathryn Dickson from KathrynAnywhere

Cassis

Cassis, located in southern France along the Mediterranean sea, is a beautiful place to visit. There’s a quaint little city a short train ride east from Marseille that has everything a family would need for an amazing getaway.

A little adventure can be found hiking the white limestone cliffs known as the Calanques. They overlook the stunning blue colours of the sea below. Cassis also has several beaches to enjoy, both in the city itself, and some a short hike or car ride away.

Small restaurants cater to visitors with some amazing French foods. Grab a bite at a cafe along the port and watch the boats coming and going. Shopping is a wonderful way to relax after a day exploring the cliffs or lounging at the beach. Several open-air markets are found in the city square year-round.

The history buffs may enjoy visiting one of the museums in the city to learn about the culture of Cassis from the 17th century. All of these great elements come together, making Cassis a wonderful place to take the family for holiday. Learn more about visiting Cassis.

Jason, Carltonauts Travel Tips

Grimaud

If you want to visit the South of France with kids but are not keen on the glitz and glamour of St Tropez then consider Grimaud and Port Grimaud. This area in south-eastern France offers beaches, picture perfect towns and great food for a fraction of the price of its chi-chi neighbour.

Port Grimaud is located on the French Riviera. The area is divided into four islands, each dotted with past coloured Provencal-style houses, linked by bridges over the canals. A large area of the village is private access, however there are organised bout tours around the waterways and you can also hire your own little electric boats with a map.

A boat service connects Port Grimaud with St. Tropez, 7km away. It’s a great day trip offering brilliant views of the coastline and the opportunity to spot the rich and famous as you pass by a bay of super yachts.

The village of Grimaud is a 10 minute drive away from the port on a hillside. Charming houses line the cobbled streets, each with their own vibrant flower display. Visit during the summer and you may catch the Foire de la Laine (Wool Fair). This annual event takes over the town with colourful market stalls offering homemade local produce, from cheese and jams to fabrics and jewellery.

Other towns worth visiting nearby include Sainte-Maxime and St Raphael. Both towns have bustling weekend markets. A great option for families looking to camp is Holiday Marina Resort with Canvas Holidays. This site offers a range of two- and three-bedroom holiday homes, which are perfect for families.

Antibes

Antibes is a beautiful town on the French Riviera and is perfect for a family holiday in the South of France. Located between Nice and Cannes, it is prettier than both. Antibes is perfect for spending an afternoon, a weekend, or even a staycation.

It is easy to get to Antibes via a train or boat from Nice. Although a boat seems to be the best way to travel if you are in Côte d’Azur. Kids and adults would be amazed to see the mega-yachts at the Port Vauban.

Antibes has a gorgeous old town surrounded by a 16th-century wall. Kids will love exploring the Plage de la Gravette is a small patch of sandy beach right by the fort walls that is perfect for making sandcastles or swimming. Don’t miss a visit to Musée Picasso located in Chateau Grimaldi where Picasso once lived.

Antibes is a beautiful place to explore, eat and shop – the provencal food market in Cours Massena is a great place to grab a quick bite but if you can splurge a little head to Cap’d Antibes and have lunch at one of the luxury hotels or villas. The forested Cap d’Antibes peninsula is dotted with beautiful villas and separates Antibes from Juan-les-Pins.

Chosen by Priya, Outside Suburbia

Nice

Nice, on France’s south-east coast, is the second largest city in France, and it is full of fun reasons to visit with kids.

The most obvious place you will want to head with kids is the long beach. The city is built around it so it is easy to get here and hang out. A walk along the Promenade des Anglais next to the beach is a definite must do.

There is a great Old Town in Nice which is fun to wander and you can finish up at the Promenade du Paillon which is a great park right next to it. You can also visit the Parc du Château while checking out views like the ones pictured here.

If you visit around Christmas (like we did), make sure you head to the Christmas market. This is a great one with amusement park rides, an ice skating rink, tons of trampolines and, of course, the big red man himself. You are also not far from the snow with trips to the South Alps in an hour.

A plus of visiting Nice is that it is a transport hub which makes getting here easy. There are many flights, trains and buses and it’s close to the Monaco and Italy borders.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay, consider the Best Western Plus Hôtel Brice Garden which is close to the Old Town and has rooms for up to 5 people.

Sharon, Baby Journey

French Islands

Corsica

Located 170km from the south coast of France is the lovely isle of Corsica. Home to endless sandy beaches and rocky coves, lazy rivers and jagged mountain peaks, Corsica is a stunning island for families to explore. Geographically closer to Italy than to France, you will find influences from both countries in the language, architecture and cuisine of Corsica.

If your kids love being in the water on holiday, they will love Corsica. Although beaches are the number one attraction in the summer, Corsica’s other key attraction is hiking in the mountainous interior. There are challenging hikes as well as easy walks for children of all ages. Kids will love discovering waterfalls hidden in the mountains and older children will delight at jumping off high rocks into the cool natural river pools.

During our family holiday to Corsica, we spent pretty much the whole week submerged in the sea or a river.

Corsica has some beautiful port towns to visit if you can tear the family away from the water. Bonifacio, on the southern tip of Corsica, is one of the highlights, a medieval citadel atop the cliffs with dramatic views of the Mediterranean below.

The Lavezzi Archipelago located just off the coast from Bonifacio is a popular day trip offering excellent snorkelling and diving in its crystal clear waters.

Corsica has a really good range of family friendly accommodation. There are lots of residences and domaines: small clusters of villas or apartments sharing a swimming pool where children will find it easy to make friends. Alternatively, there are some excellent holiday parks including Sole di Sari which sits of the banks of the Solenzara River on the east coast of Corsica.

Annabel, Smudged Postcard