There’s something magical about Paris that instantly grabs you. Maybe it’s the centuries-old architecture, the rich history, or the irresistible food. For me, it’s the memories that bring the biggest smile—especially our family trip to Paris nearly a decade ago.
From sailing down the Seine at night to exploring Montmartre’s cobbled streets, this adventure gave us endless stories to tell (and re-tell). And if you’re dreaming of your own family getaway to Paris, trust me—this city has plenty to offer, no matter the age or interest.
Let me take you through some of the best things we did, why Paris is perfect for a family trip, and, of course, how Andare’ Luxury Travel can make your next adventure not just effortless but also filled with little surprises (the good kind, not the “where are my kids’ passports” kind). Plus, I’ll sprinkle in a few of our own funny moments along the way—because what’s a family vacation without a little humor, right?
Sailing Down the Seine: A Night of Pure Magic
One of the most magical experiences we had in Paris was sailing down the Seine at night. Picture it: the city glowing under the night sky, the reflection of Parisian lights rippling on the water, and the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background. As we cruised by Notre Dame, its Gothic grandeur seemed even more spectacular at night. This was pre-fire, so we were able to fully appreciate the iconic cathedral in all its splendor.
A Seine River cruise is a must for any trip to Paris. Whether it’s a romantic dinner cruise or a family-friendly evening tour, seeing Paris from the water is something you won’t forget. My kids were thrilled—there’s something about seeing the Eiffel Tower twinkle that just never gets old. We still talk about the moment we saw her twinkle for the first time.
Scaling the Heights: Climbing the Bell Tower
at Notre Dame Cathedral
During the day, we tackled the bell tower at Notre Dame. My two kids—one in elementary school and the other in high school—insisted on climbing the stairs. By the time we reached the top, I was wondering why I didn’t just “supervise” from the café below. But when we finally got there, the view from this historic monument was worth every single step.
Standing eye-to-eye with the famous gargoyles and gazing over the rooftops of Paris made me forget the burn in my calves (well, almost). While the bell tower is currently closed for restoration, put this on your post-fire Paris itinerary when it reopens (December 2024). It’s one of those bucket-list experiences that will leave you breathless (literally).
Being in the Moment: Sainte-Chapelle
and Its Stained Glass Majesty
One of the most transformative experiences in Paris was stepping inside Sainte-Chapelle, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. I knew it was famous for its stained glass windows, but nothing could have prepared me for the moment I ascended the staircase and entered the upper chapel. I literally felt my breath leave me as I exclaimed, “Oh! Wow!”
The ethereal majesty of the space was overwhelming. Sunlight poured through the towering windows, casting vibrant colors across the room in a kaleidoscope of light.
It was one of those rare moments where beauty catches you off guard and makes you pause to just be in the moment. Seeing those legendary stained glass windows felt like stepping into a dream—one I still carry with me today. If you’re looking for something truly non-touristy yet iconic, Sainte-Chapelle is an absolute must-see.
Royalty on Overload: Day Trip to Versailles
A day trip that’ll wow the whole family? The Palace of Versailles is your place. Just a short train ride from Paris, this opulent palace is a feast for the eyes. We were especially enchanted by the Hall of Mirrors, where we felt like we’d stepped straight into a scene from a movie.
The chandeliers, the ornate mirrors—everything about it screams royalty. I felt that if I stood perfectly still for just a moment, I could almost see the shadowy figures of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette gliding through these halls, pausing to admire their reflections in the grand mirrors.
But the real fun started when we rented a golf cart to tour the sprawling gardens. My 17-year-old son took the wheel, and let’s just say, I’m thankful the perfectly manicured lawns were forgiving! Versailles isn’t just one of the best places to visit in France; it’s also a place where history meets fun.
Paris City Pass: Skip the Lines, Save Your Sanity
If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in Paris, do yourself a favor and get the Paris City Pass. We found it to be a game-changer when it came to skipping lines and covering entrance fees for spots like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay. It’s especially useful if you’re traveling with kids—because, let’s face it, nothing kills the magic of Paris faster than standing in a two-hour line.
Being the art lovers that we are, no trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Louvre and the Picasso Museum. While we braved the crowds to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa, there’s so much more to see at the Louvre. You could easily spend days there, and still not see it all. With our Skip the Lines card in hand, we saved ourselves over an hour of standing in line.
Nighttime Biking: Fat Tire Bike Tours
If you’re looking for a unique way to see the city, I highly recommend taking a nighttime bike tour. We did one with Fat Tire Bike Company, and it was possibly the top experience of the trip. I mean, riding your bike through the courtyard of the Louvre at night, or slapping high fives to each other as we rode under the Arc de Triomphe It doesn’t get much cooler than that. The kids loved the adventure, and I’ll admit, so did I. It’s moments like these that make you pinch yourself and say, “Are we really doing this?”
Montmartre: A Village of Art and Charm
Oh, Montmartre—one of my favorite spots in all of Paris. This artsy neighborhood feels like stepping into another world. We wandered the charming streets, bought a painting from a local artist (because you can’t leave Montmartre without some art), and visited a small, but mighty art museum, the Salvador Dali Museum. You have to know I was lost in a haze of art historian heaven.
After climbing up to Sacré-Cœur, we treated ourselves to a steaming cup of chocolat chaud. The view of the city below, as the lights flickered on, was nothing short of magical. Pro tip: don’t be like us—take the elevator up from the Metro station unless you’re ready for a leg workout!
Discovering the Middle Ages at Cluny Abbey
On a quieter day, we stumbled upon Cluny Abbey, a UNESCO world heritage site, but hidden gem in the city. This medieval abbey is home to an impressive collection of medieval art, including the famous Unicorn Tapestries. It was a peaceful escape from the busier tourist spots, and the kids surprisingly loved learning about the medieval period. Sometimes, it’s the unexpected finds that end up being the most memorable.
Shakespeare & Company: Literary Magic
If you’re a bookworm, or even if you’re not, a visit to Shakespeare and Company will charm you. My kids and I spent a good chunk of time here, skimming through books and lounging in the cozy window seats. Oh, and did I mention there are store cats? That was pretty much the highlight for my youngest.
The Sweet Side of Paris: Nutella Crêpes
It wouldn’t be a trip to Paris without indulging in some Nutella crêpes. My youngest practically lived off them, and I’m not going to lie—I may have snuck more than a few bites myself. These sweet treats are everywhere in Paris, and they’re the perfect snack while you’re wandering the city. You’ll find yourself craving them long after you’ve left.
Unforgettable Family Memories
The best part of our trip wasn’t just the sightseeing or the art—it was the memories we created together. From our tour guide Eddie’s rallying cry of “Dominate!” to the laughs we shared while navigating the busy Paris streets, this adventure is forever woven into our family’s story. Nine years later, we still talk about it like it happened yesterday.
Why Choose a Custom Travel Itinerary?
Here’s the thing: Paris is incredible, but it’s also massive. While you can certainly plan your own trip, having a custom itinerary makes a world of difference. That’s where Andare’ Luxury Travel comes in. I specialize in taking the stress out of travel planning.
No more worrying about where to stay in Paris to walk everywhere, or how to get tickets to the top sites. I’ll handle every detail—from luxury accommodations to securing unique private tours—so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the experience.
Luxury Travel. It’s all About the Experience.
For us, luxury European travel to Paris France isn’t just about plush hotels and gourmet meals (though those are important). It’s about crafting an experience that’s tailored specifically to you and your family. It’s about enjoying a sense of ease and indulgence, knowing every detail is taken care of, from start to finish. It’s about immersing yourself in the culture and rhythm of a destination in a way that feels authentic and personal.
When you travel with Andare, you’re not just booking a vacation—you’re investing in unforgettable memories, expertly curated experiences, and a journey that’s as smooth as it is spectacular.
Paris Hotels: The Parisians are Fancy
When it comes to accommodation in Paris, I believe your stay should be as unforgettable as your adventures. That’s why I recommend some of the finest Virtuoso hotels for my clients, ensuring an elevated experience with exclusive perks and seamless service.
Here are a few of my top suggestions:
Le Bristol Paris
Le Bristol Paris is the epitome of Parisian elegance. Located in the chic 8th arrondissement, this grand hotel offers stunning suites, a world-class spa, and even a rooftop pool that overlooks the Eiffel Tower. With impeccable service and an unbeatable location near the Champs-Élysées, this hotel is perfect for those wanting to indulge in pure Parisian luxury.
The kids will also love the hotel’s two resident cats, Fa-Raon and Socrate, who roam the lobby like true VIPs. Whether you’re sipping afternoon tea in the hotel’s garden or enjoying Michelin-starred dining at Epicure, every moment at Le Bristol feels like a special occasion.
Hôtel du Louvre
If you’re after a stay that combines luxury with Parisian history, Hôtel du Louvre is an excellent choice. As one of the city’s iconic hotels, it sits right in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, just steps away from the Louvre Museum, Palais Royal, and the Tuileries Garden. This makes it the perfect base for exploring Paris’s famous landmarks—many of which are within walking distance. Plus-they have bunk beds for the kids!
The hotel itself is a beautiful blend of classic and contemporary style. You’ll find elegant rooms and suites that offer breathtaking views of the Louvre, and the hotel’s famous glass-roofed brasserie, Brasserie du Louvre, offers classic French cuisine with a modern twist.
Staying at Hôtel du Louvre ensures you’re immersed in Parisian culture from the moment you step outside your door. Plus, the location means that after a long day of sightseeing, you can simply stroll back to your hotel to unwind. The blend of charm, comfort, and history makes Hôtel du Louvre a perfect pick for families and first-time visitors looking to experience the very heart of Paris.
Stress-Free Travel with Andare’ Luxury Travel
Let’s face it, travel planning can be overwhelming. Flights, accommodations, sightseeing—it’s a lot to juggle. But with Andare’, we take that burden off your shoulders. If you’re dreaming of Paris or other European cities, our personalized itineraries ensure a seamless, stress-free experience.
Want to know where to stay in Paris for the best access to everything? We’ve got you covered. Need to navigate the Paris subway map without losing your mind? We’ll handle that too. Need to find a doctor? No problem! Everything from your luxury hotel stay to the perfect private tours, I make sure your European adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.
Ready to Create Your Family’s Next Unforgettable Chapter?
If you’re ready to create your own unforgettable family adventure, contact Andare’ Luxury Travel today, and let me start planning a journey that’s as effortless as it is magical.
With our curated itineraries, luxury accommodations, and insider access to the best Paris has to offer, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime—without lifting a finger.
Paris is waiting, and I can’t wait to show you its magic.
