France’s allure for luxury travel stems from its rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and iconic landmarks. The country boasts world-class fashion boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants and opulent accommodations exuding sophistication and elegance. From the romantic ambience of Paris to the vineyard-dotted landscapes of Bordeaux and the scenic terrains of Provence, France offers diverse experiences for families seeking luxurious experiences.
Here are the best destinations in France for luxury family trips.
1. Bordeaux
Sitting along the beautiful Garonne River, Bordeaux is globally renowned for its wine industry. The region has vast vineyards, producing some of the world’s finest wines. Families seeking luxury getaways in Bordeaux can indulge in various experiences, from cultural immersions to leisurely river cruises.
Families will find prestigious accommodations like château hotels or upscale boutique properties nestled amidst vineyards, offering refined amenities and personalised services. Explore the renowned Bordeaux wine region through private vineyard tours and tastings, where parents can savour world-class wines while children engage in grape juice tastings and vineyard picnics.
Embark on leisurely cruises along the Garonne River, admiring historic landmarks and picturesque landscapes while enjoying onboard gourmet dining. Delve into Bordeaux’s rich cultural heritage with visits to UNESCO-listed sites such as the historic city centre and its elegant 18th-century architecture, best explored on a guided walking tour tailored to families.
Experience culinary delights at Michelin-starred restaurants offering inventive menus highlighting regional flavours, with options for kid-friendly meals and cooking classes. For outdoor adventures, explore nearby beaches along the Atlantic coast or participate in family-friendly activities like cycling through vineyard trails or hot air balloon rides over the scenic countryside.
2. Paris
While Paris is synonymous with romance, making it a top spot for honeymoons, it also makes an ideal place for enjoying luxury holidays with the family. For one, Paris has many upscale accommodations offering spacious suites and amenities catering to families with kids and child-friendly amenities like kid’s clubs and family-oriented concierge services.
Experience the full splendour of the picturesque views by embarking on a French river cruise where you will travel along the Seine, admiring the city’s landmarks, including the majestic bridges and historic architecture.
Take your kids on a sightseeing tour to explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral, opting for skip-the-line tours to maximise time together. Indulge in Parisian gastronomy at Michelin-starred restaurants offering refined cuisine and options for younger palates.
Take part in cultural experiences like attending family-friendly performances at renowned venues like the Opéra Garnier or exploring interactive museums like the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. Stroll through picturesque gardens like Luxembourg Gardens or Tuileries Garden, ideal for picnics and leisurely family outings.
For active families, explore Paris on a bike. Cycle along the Seine’s quays or explore charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre, known for its artistic ambience and panoramic views.
3. Normandy
Offering a blend of refinement, history, and natural beauty, Normandy has the perfect setting for luxury getaways. Families can stay at elegant accommodations, such as charming château hotels or upscale beachfront resorts, providing spacious suites and family-oriented amenities.
Discover Normandy’s rich history by visiting iconic sites like the historic D-Day landing beaches, where families can engage in educational tours and interactive exhibits highlighting World War II history. Discover the region’s cultural heritage with visits to picturesque towns like Honfleur and Bayeux, renowned for their medieval charm and architectural splendour.
Indulge in gastronomic delights at Michelin-starred restaurants and local eateries, savouring fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and renowned Normandy cider. Experience the region’s scenic beauty with leisurely walks along the rugged coastline, picnics in lush apple orchards, and horseback riding excursions through verdant countryside.
Participate in family-friendly activities such as apple picking at orchards, cheese-making workshops, and exploring charming villages like Étretat, famed for its stunning cliffs and panoramic views of the English Channel. If you have active kids, engage in outdoor adventures like kayaking along the Seine River or cycling through picturesque countryside trails.
Normandy also offers family-oriented festivals and events celebrating local traditions, arts, and culture, providing enriching experiences for adults and kids.
4. The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is one of France’s best destinations for families seeking luxury experiences. It has exquisite accommodations, such as historic château hotels or boutique luxury properties nestled amidst vineyards and rolling hills, providing spacious suites perfect for families.
Discover the grandeur of the Loire Valley’s châteaux, including famous sites like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau. Immerse yourself in the splendour of the Loire Valley with luxury tours that highlight France’s cuisine. Engage in family-friendly activities such as treasure hunts, carriage rides, and interactive exhibits within the châteaux grounds.
Discover the Loire Valley’s natural beauty through outdoor adventures like hot air balloon rides over verdant landscapes, kayaking along tranquil rivers, or cycling through picturesque countryside trails lined with sunflower fields and orchards.
Immerse in the local culture by participating in cultural events and festivals celebrating the arts, music, and gastronomy, providing enriching experiences for the whole family.
5. Provence
Provence offers families a delightful fusion of sophistication, culture, and natural beauty. Begin by selecting luxurious accommodations such as elegant boutique hotels or charming villas nestled amidst lavender fields and vineyards, providing spacious accommodations and personalised services catering to families.
Explore Provence’s enchanting villages and historic towns, including Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, with guided tours offering insights into local history, art, and architecture. Engage in family-friendly activities such as cooking classes, art workshops, and pottery sessions, allowing children to immerse themselves in Provencal culture and creativity.
Indulge in culinary delights at Michelin-starred restaurants, savouring gourmet cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and accompanied by renowned Provencal wines. Experience the region’s scenic beauty through family picnics in lavender fields, bike rides along tranquil countryside paths, and hiking excursions in the Alpilles mountains.
Discover Provence’s cultural heritage through visits to museums, art galleries, and historical sites like the Palais des Papes and the Roman ruins of Glanum, offering educational experiences for the whole family. Participate in seasonal events and festivals celebrating Provencal traditions, music, and cuisine, providing enriching cultural experiences.
With a blend of luxury accommodations, gastronomic experiences, cultural immersion, and outdoor pursuits, Provence has the perfect setting to create cherished memories with families.
