Make the most of Paris in three days
Three days might not seem like long to make the most of Paris but you’ll be surprised at just how much you can fit in. You won’t want to spend each day hurtling round the city on metro trains and buses especially if you have children with you so it is good to plan routes that can be walked quite comfortably. Factor in plenty of time to enjoy the culinary delights of this beautiful city as well otherwise you will really be missing out. Whilst there is no shortage of things to see and do you will want the kids to enjoy their time in Paris as well but it really isn’t too difficult to balance sights and culture with fun for the kids. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Day one – Start your day at the world famous Pompidou Centre which is as fascinating on the inside as it is quirky from the outside. The centre has had more than 150 million visitors since it opened in 1977 making it one of the most popular attractions in Paris today. It is a world class arts and literature complex that houses Europe’s largest museum of modern art. The kids will love it from the street performers on the plaza through to the children’s gallery and activities inside.
Make your way to the Palais Royal where you can admiring the architecture immaculate gardens and the silver ball fountains – you can stop here for refreshments at one of the coffee-bars in the surrounding arcades. End your day at the nearby : these beautiful historic gardens offer sensational views of iconic Paris landmarks and are a great place to relax. If you visit Jardins de Tuileries in the height of summer the kids will adore the funfair on Rue de Rivoli.
Day two – If you have children then the very mention of Paris is synonymous to them with Disneyland. This fabulous theme park opened in 1992 and has thrilled kids and adults ever since. The park is huge and has world class rides suitable for all age groups. Disneyland Paris had nearly 15 million visitors last year and the most popular rides include the Pirates of the Caribbean boat-ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad roller-coaster; and the Space Mountain: Mission 2 roller-coaster. This is only the second Disney resort to have opened outside of America but there are plenty more Disneyland Paris facts for kids that will make them think. Trains to Disneyland Paris leave from a number of central Paris railway stations (including Gare de Lyon) every 15 minutes and take a little under 45 minutes making it perfect for a day trip.
Day three – You could almost spend the whole day in the Trocadero Gardens. This large park is set out with beautiful formal garden areas and great places to relax. The Museum of Architecture is less well known than many Paris museums but is really worth spending some time at as not only are the exhibits very interesting but the museum cafe is good for a snack and offers great views of the Eiffel Tower.
If the kids failed to be impressed by the architecture museum they will absolutely love the Paris Aquarium which is also set within the Trocadero Gardens. It may not be the largest aquarium you’ve seen but the tanks are clean with many beautiful fish and the shark tank has a tunnel in it allowing you to see these awesome fish from all angles.
