THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR 1 DAY IN PARIS
Did you know that Paris welcomes over 30 million visitors each year? That's more than the entire population of Australia!
But what if you only have one day to explore this enchanting city? Only got 1 day in Paris? No worries! We've got you covered with this jam-packed itinerary that'll make every minute count.
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Must-See Highlights for Families for 1 Day in Paris
Wondering the 1 day in Paris what-to-see guide? There are some must-see spots you just can't skip, even if you're racing against the clock.
The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are iconic symbols of the city that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and awe-inspiring architecture.
When you've only got 1 day in Paris, you've gotta be a bit strategic about looking for Paris top attractions.
We know acation is for sleeping in, but trust us, with just 1 day in Paris, you'll want to set that alarm clock. We recommend starting your day early and following a logical route to minimize travel time between sites.
A possible itinerary could be: Eiffel Tower in the morning, followed by a Seine River Cruise, then the Louvre, and finally Notre-Dame.
If you’re traveling with children, try keeping them engaged by turning it into a game. Create a scavenger hunt with items to spot at each location, or challenge them to learn and share one interesting fact about each place you visit. This not only keeps them interested but also helps them retain information about the sites!
Eiffel Tower: Timing Your Visit
If you're figuring out what to see in Paris, France in 1 day, you've gotta hit the big three: the Eiffel Tower for that 'wow' factor, the Louvre for a culture fix, and Notre Dame for some serious history vibes. Eiffel Tower skip-the-line tickets are definitely worth it to make the most of your 1 day in Paris.
The best times to visit are either early in the morning (around 9 am when it opens) or later in the evening.
If you opt for an evening visit, you'll be treated to the magical sight of the tower's twinkling lights!
There are different options for experiencing the tower. The ground view is free and offers great photo opportunities. The second floor provides stunning views of Paris, while the summit offers the ultimate panoramic experience. Consider your family's preferences and time constraints when choosing.
While waiting in line, keep children entertained with games like "I Spy" or by sharing interesting facts about the tower.
For fantastic family photos with the tower, head to Trocadéro Square across the Seine. It offers an unobstructed view and is less crowded than the base of the tower.
Louvre Museum: Kid-Friendly Approach to Art
The Louvre can be overwhelming, especially for children. So, the key is to focus on specific, famous artworks to maintain their interest. Zero in on the Louvre Museum highlights like the mysterious Mona Lisa, the armless wonder Venus de Milo, and the jaw-dropping Winged Victory.
These iconic pieces are spread out, giving you a good tour of the museum as you search for them.
Consider using interactive guides or creating your own treasure hunt-style activities for children. Many kids enjoy the challenge of finding specific artworks or identifying symbols in paintings.
For a more structured experience, there are many Louvre guided tours designed for families.
Louvre offers guided tours designed for families. These tours are engaging and provide child-friendly explanations of the artworks.
To avoid crowds, try visiting during the museum's late-night openings on Wednesdays and Fridays. The Louvre is open until 9:45 pm on these days, and it's usually less crowded in the evening.
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Notre Dame Cathedral: Admiring from the Outside
Unfortunately, due to the devastating fire in 2019, Notre Dame is currently closed for restoration, but has plans to re-open in December of 2024.
However, this doesn't mean you should skip it! The cathedral's exterior is a masterpiece in itself and offers a unique opportunity to discuss architecture and history with your children.
For the best views of Notre Dame's exterior, head to Square Jean XXIII behind the cathedral or cross the Seine to Ile Saint-Louis. These vantage points offer unobstructed views and great photo opportunities.
While you're in the area, consider visiting nearby attractions like Sainte-Chapelle, known for its stunning stained glass windows, or taking a stroll through the charming Latin Quarter.
To make Notre Dame interesting for children, share some of its fascinating history. Tell them about the hunchback of Notre-Dame from Victor Hugo's novel, or explain how the cathedral took nearly 200 years to build. You could even challenge them to spot the famous gargoyles on the facade!
Family-Friendly Parisian Experiences
Seine River Cruise: Seeing Paris from the Water
The Seine River cruise is like a floating sightseeing tour. It's also a great way to rest your feet after a morning of walking!
The best times for a river cruise depend on your preferences. Daytime cruises offer clear views of the monuments, while evening cruises provide a romantic atmosphere with illuminated buildings. For families, we recommend a late afternoon cruise that transitions into early evening, giving you the best of both worlds.
Many companies offer family-friendly cruises with commentary suitable for children. Look for options with interactive elements or special guides for kids.
If you prefer to explore on foot, why not turn your day into a DIY Paris walking tour? You could even spice it up with a game of landmark bingo to keep the kids (and let's be honest, the adults too) engaged.
Create cards with pictures of famous sites you'll see from the boat, and have the kids mark them off as you pass by. It's a fun way to ensure they're paying attention to the sights!
Montmartre: Art and Stunning Views
Montmartre, with its artistic history and bohemian atmosphere, offers a different flavor of Paris. This hilltop neighborhood has been home to many famous artists, including Picasso and Van Gogh.
Family-friendly activities in Montmartre include:
Watching street artists at work in Place du Tertre
Visiting the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Enjoying the panoramic views of Paris from the steps of the basilica
To reach Montmartre with children, we recommend taking the funicular. It's a short, fun ride that saves you from climbing the steep hill. If you do decide to walk, take it slow and enjoy the charming streets along the way.
For the best views of Paris, head to the viewing platform at the dome of Sacré-Cœur. It requires climbing some stairs, but the 360-degree view of Paris is truly breathtaking!
Luxembourg Gardens: A Break for Kids to Play
After a day of sightseeing, it's important to allow children time to relax and play. The Luxembourg Gardens provide the perfect setting for this.
The gardens offer a variety of activities for children, including a fantastic playground, puppet shows, pony rides, and toy sailboats that can be rented to float in the central fountain. It's a slice of Parisian childhood that your kids will love!
For a family meal, you can either pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or visit one of the charming cafes nearby. The Café de la Mairie on the north side of the gardens is a great spot for people-watching.
Don't forget to share some of the gardens' history with your children. Originally created for a queen, these gardens have been a beloved Parisian institution for over 400 years. Who knows, you might inspire a future history buff!
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Enjoy our on-board family-oriented programs and amenities from kids' clubs and teen lounges to family-friendly shows and activities, there's something for every age group. This means you can relax and enjoy your vacation even when you're not exploring exciting ports like Paris.
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