Top Day Trips from Paris with Kids

While Paris itself is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, the surrounding regions offer even more opportunities for adventure. From historic palaces to magical theme parks and natural retreats, day trips from Paris give families the chance to explore new places, all within easy reach of the city. Whether your children are budding historians, nature lovers, or thrill-seekers, there’s something for everyone just a short ride away. Here’s a guide to the best day trips from Paris that are perfect for families traveling with kids.

Start Your Day with a Treasure Hunt in the Marais

Before embarking on a day trip outside Paris, why not kick off the adventure with an interactive treasure hunt in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods? Organized by From Paris with Fun, this game transforms the streets of the Marais into a giant puzzle waiting to be solved. Families will work together to crack codes, decipher clues, and uncover the hidden stories behind this fascinating district.

The Marais, with its charming narrow streets and rich history, offers the perfect setting for a morning adventure. As your family follows the trail, you’ll explore landmarks like the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, and discover hidden courtyards and centuries-old mansions. The interactive nature of the treasure hunt keeps children engaged while allowing them to learn about Paris in a fun and dynamic way. And the best part? There’s no need to rush! You can enjoy the hunt at your own pace before heading off for your day trip.

Versailles: A Royal Experience for the Whole Family

No family trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Château de Versailles. Just 30 minutes by train from the city, Versailles offers a glimpse into France’s royal past and is sure to capture the imagination of children and adults alike. As one of the most famous palaces in the world, Versailles is a place where history truly comes alive.

For families, Versailles offers a variety of activities that make the visit both educational and entertaining. You can opt for a family-friendly guided tour that focuses on the lives of the kings, queens, and courtiers who once called the palace home. These tours are designed to keep children engaged by offering fun facts and stories about royal life.

The palace’s Hall of Mirrors is a highlight that will wow kids with its sparkling chandeliers and glittering reflections. After exploring the grand rooms of the château, head outside to the Gardens of Versailles, where there’s plenty of space for children to run and play. The gardens are home to numerous fountains, groves, and even a musical fountain show during the summer months.

For an extra treat, you can rent a boat on the Grand Canal, allowing your family to paddle around like royalty. Don’t forget to visit the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette, which includes her charming village, complete with farm animals and rustic cottages. It’s a peaceful escape that shows a different side of Versailles, far from the grandeur of the main palace.

A Magical Day at Disneyland Paris

If your family loves theme parks, then Disneyland Paris is an absolute must. Located just 40 minutes from central Paris, Disneyland offers two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, each filled with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Whether your children are fans of classic Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie or they love the action-packed worlds of Marvel superheroes, Disneyland Paris has something for everyone.

Start your day at Disneyland Park, where you can explore Fantasyland, home to iconic rides like It’s a Small World and Peter Pan’s Flight. Don’t miss the chance to meet Disney princesses at Princess Pavilion, where kids can have a magical encounter with their favorite royal characters. For those who prefer high-energy thrills, Adventureland and Discoveryland offer roller coasters and interactive rides, such as Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril.

At Walt Disney Studios Park, families can step into the world of Pixar with rides like Ratatouille: The Adventure, which takes you on a 4D journey through the kitchens of Gusteau’s restaurant. There’s also the Toy Story Playland and Cars Road Trip, which are sure to delight younger children.

Make sure to catch the parades and shows that run throughout the day, as they add an extra layer of magic to your Disneyland experience. From the Disney Stars on Parade to the breathtaking Disney Illuminations fireworks display, there’s no shortage of entertainment to fill your day.

Fontainebleau: Nature and History Combined

For families seeking a mix of nature and history, Fontainebleau is the perfect destination. Located about an hour from Paris, Fontainebleau offers a peaceful retreat from the city and is home to one of France’s most beautiful royal residences, the Château de Fontainebleau. Unlike Versailles, which is known for its grandeur, Fontainebleau has a more intimate, serene atmosphere that is perfect for families with children.

Start your visit with a tour of the château, which has been home to French monarchs for centuries. The rooms are richly decorated, and there are often special exhibitions and workshops designed for children. After exploring the château, take a walk through the Gardens of Fontainebleau, which are filled with beautiful fountains, sculptures, and open spaces where kids can run and play.

Fontainebleau is also surrounded by a vast forest, which is ideal for families who enjoy hiking, picnicking, or even rock climbing. The forest is crisscrossed with trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints, making it a great spot for a family adventure in nature. For an extra dose of excitement, you can try your hand at bouldering, a popular activity in the region.

Day Trips to Suit Every Family

Whether your family is drawn to the allure of royal palaces, the excitement of theme parks, or the tranquility of nature, there’s a day trip from Paris that’s perfect for you. These destinations offer something for every type of traveler, ensuring that your family’s time in France is packed with unforgettable experiences.

And don’t forget – before you leave Paris, start your day with a treasure hunt organized by From Paris with Fun. It’s the perfect way to engage your kids and get them excited about exploring, all while discovering the hidden gems of Paris.