Our first trip to Europe as a family of 5 took us to Paris. Paris has always been one of my favorite cities to visit, though this trip I felt like I saw the city for the first time.
1. Ride a Carousel
Did you know the city was filled with carousels? I had no idea. We love going on the merry-go-round and I knew of one, but I also knew it was closed due to the Olympic prep (near the Eiffel Tower). Well, there are many more! In fact, over the 5 day trip we went to 4 different carousels.
2. Luxemburg Gardens
If you’re looking for a hotel, book one near the Luxemburg Gardens, because I can guarantee you will visit this park more than once. Rent a sail boat and push it through the fountain, visit the fenced in playground, ride (our favorite) carousel, see a puppet show, or just wonder through the park on a toddler-lead walk.
3. Park Palais Royal
Hidden just behind the Louvre, this park is mounds of fun. You can run through the outdoor museum (literally) and find yourself wondering how the smallest things bring so much joy. This may have been our 4 year-olds favorite spot for the day.
4. Boat Cruise the Seine
There are plenty of boat cruise options. We prefer the Hop-On Hop-Off tour for 2 main reasons. First, because with 3 kids under 5 we loved that it’s an inside only boat. Second, the boat comes every 15 minutes, and if you’re moving at a toddler pace, it’s nice to have options.
5. Go to a playground
There are so many fenced in playgrounds. The one behind the Eiffel Tower was our favorite since it has clean bathrooms, shade, and picnic tables for lunch!
6. Disneyland
Believe it or not, Disneyland Paris is significantly more affordable than Disney World Orlando. An easy train from the city or a train from the airport, the public transportation to Disneyland makes it the perfect stop during your Paris trip.
