Bonjour! Paris wants to be included in your next vacation plans. Hmm, fresh croissants every day, envy-inducing fashions, romantic architecture and fascinating history….we certainly don’t need to be asked twice!
Recently, the Paris Region Tourist Board and Atout France held a special event in Los Angeles to spread the word about the best of what Paris has to offer American visitors. And with the euro almost at par with the U.S. dollar – 1 euro = 1.077 dollars – now is a great time to visit Paris. We hope this trend continues!
I can’t wait to bring my family to Paris someday to share these adventures with them! It’s no surprise that Paris is one of the top travel destinations in the world.
Fun Things to See & Do with Kids
While the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe will certainly make the must-see list of attractions on our itinerary, we were encouraged to include the eastern part of Paris in our travel plans to further immerse ourselves in French culture. While exploring the eastern parts of Paris, be sure to check out some of the commerce partners of The Paris Region Tourist Board.
- Less than hour from Paris is the region of Seine-Et-Marne, home to Fontainebleau (the king’s true home) boasting eight centuries of magnificence. Provins, the medieval city of the Counts of Champagne, offers a fascinating trip back to the middle ages. You won’t want to miss the Provins Medieval Festival that takes place in June. Plan your day excursion in Du Pays De Meaux to explore cheese factories or restaurants featuring Brie specialties.
- The Palace of Versailles is modeled after the Chateau de Vaux le Vicomte, the largest privately owned castle in France. The 17th-century structure and grounds are a 45-minute drive from Paris. Looking for the perfect photo opp? You can rent costumes for your kids so they can imagine living in medieval times.
- While the Palace of Versailles is a must-see, don’t miss the region’s charming hotels, awe-inspiring pyrotechnics shows, outdoor productions and year-round Royal Opera. Steps away from the palace is the fragrance garden and museum. You can even walk to Marie Antoinette’s apartment.
- Situated in the heart of Paris, Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussman (housed within the world’s largest department store) will satisfy the cravings of any foodie. You can also arrange a personal shopping experience for those 16 and older and indulge in a glass of champagne .
- At the 17th-century Chateau d’Auvers, experience the inspiration for the Impressionist era with a tour of the landscaped gardens and multimedia exhibition about Van Gogh & French art.
Where to Stay in Paris
Best Western Plaza Elysees. This three-star hotel was fully renovated in January 2014 with new bathrooms, air conditioning, elevators, and furnishings. Located between the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Elysee Avenue, and the fashionable Faubourg Saint-Honoré street, the hotel is steps away from public transportation (metro, RER and buses).
