Why Paris?
Paris has always been synonymous with romance, history, art, and culture, but for us, this trip represented more than just sightseeing. It was a celebration of our journey as a family, a testament to how far we had come, and a shared adventure that would leave us with lifelong memories. From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in the city’s charm, from its iconic landmarks to its charming cobblestone streets and bustling cafés.
Experiencing Paris for the First Time with My Children
There are certain moments in life that feel truly monumental, and for me, taking my children on their first international trip to Paris was one of them. As a mother, watching my 22-year-old son and 15-year-old daughter experience the magic of the City of Light for the first time was an unforgettable milestone—one filled with excitement, wonder, and deep emotional significance.
Our Parisian Itinerary: Iconic Landmarks & Hidden Gems
Day 1: City Views and Eiffel Tower Magic
We touched down in Paris filled with anticipation. After we dropped our bags off we headed straight to the Big Bus stop. I decided to take the Big Bus tour of Paris because it was the perfect way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks without the hassle of navigating on our own. Since it was our first time in Paris, we wanted a stress-free way to take in the breathtaking sights while learning about the city’s rich history through the guided audio tour. The hop-on, hop-off flexibility allowed us to explore at our own pace, making it an easy and enjoyable way to experience the magic of Paris together as a family.
Our first stop was the Eiffel Tower. Seeing its grandeur up close was surreal. I recommend booking a guided tour to the top. As we ascended to the top, the panoramic view of Paris stretched before us, marking the perfect beginning to our adventure. We ended the evening with a Seine River cruise, watching the city lights reflect on the water—a magical first impression.
Day 2: Art, Culture, and Café Hopping
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Louvre Museum. I purchased tickets in advance with Viator because I wanted to make sure we gained reserved entry. The general lines were crazy long!
My daughter, an aspiring artist, was mesmerized by the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces. Meanwhile, my son, a history enthusiast, was fascinated by the Egyptian Antiquities and Napoleon’s Apartments. It was a dream to be emerged in the amazing art that was created SO LONG AGO. It makes you want to travel back in time to experience the world of creativity and mentality these artists had.
After about 4 hours (and trust me, you can easily spend the entire day at the Louvre), we spent the afternoon indulging in Parisian pastries at a local café near Île de la Cité, savoring delicate croissants and rich hot chocolate. I can get used to this! The french pastries are not only good, but so beautifully crafted. Also, french hot chocolate is not the same as what we’re used to in the States. Their’s is very thick and velvety compared to our milky, watered down version.
Day 3: A Fairytale Stroll Through Montmartre
We dedicated an entire day to exploring Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. Wandering through Place du Tertre, where street artists sketched portraits, and stepping inside the breathtaking Sacré-Cœur Basilica felt like stepping into a different era. We stumbled upon a cozy little bistro for dinner, where we toasted to our Parisian adventure with sparkling lemonade and classic French onion soup.
Day 4: Versailles – A Royal Escape
One of the highlights of our trip was a day excursion to the Palace of Versailles. Walking through the Hall of Mirrorsand strolling the royal gardens gave us a glimpse into the opulence of French history. My children were in awe of the grandeur, and I loved witnessing their appreciation for history and architecture.
Day 5: Shopping & Saying Goodbye
Before heading home, we indulged in a bit of Parisian shopping—picking up souvenirs, French skincare, and trendy fashion pieces. A final stop at Angelina’s for their famous hot chocolate and Mont-Blanc pastry was the perfect way to bid adieu to Paris.
Why This Trip Was So Special
This journey wasn’t just about discovering Paris; it was about strengthening our bond as a family. Sharing first-time experiences with my children—whether it was trying escargots for the first time, marveling at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, or simply laughing together over a baguette mishap—made this trip an emotional and joyous milestone.
Travel Tips for Families Visiting Paris
- Plan your itinerary wisely: Mix famous landmarks with relaxed moments at local cafés.
- Get a Paris Museum Pass: Saves time and money while skipping long ticket lines.
- Use public transportation: The Metro is efficient and budget-friendly.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Encourage kids to try French delicacies—they might surprise themselves!
- Capture the moments: Take plenty of pictures, but also put the camera down and soak it all in.
Final Thoughts
Taking my children to Paris was a dream come true—one that reminded me of the beauty of sharing adventures, cultures, and new experiences with the ones we love most. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Paris has a way of making every moment feel extraordinary.