5 day itinerary for France

Itinerary

A road trip through France sounds like a fantastic adventure, especially for a family! Let’s create an itinerary that balances fun, culture, and relaxation. Here’s a delightful 5-day plan that will take you through some of the most family-friendly spots in France.

## Day 1: Paris – The City of Lights

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Get there early to avoid the crowds and take the elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.
• Afterward, stroll through the Champ de Mars park for a lovely picnic breakfast. Grab some pastries from a nearby boulangerie!

Afternoon:

• Head to the Louvre Museum. While it’s huge, you can focus on the highlights like the Mona Lisa and the Egyptian artifacts. Kids often love the glass pyramid entrance!
• For lunch, try a family-friendly café nearby. Le Fumoir is a great option with a relaxed atmosphere.

Evening:

• Take a leisurely walk along the Seine River and enjoy the street performers.
• End your day with a Seine River cruise. It’s a magical way to see the city lit up at night!

## Day 2: Versailles and Giverny

Morning:

• Drive to Versailles (about 30 minutes from Paris). Explore the Palace of Versailles and its stunning gardens. Kids will love the fountains and the vast grounds to run around!

Afternoon:

• After lunch at a café in Versailles, head to Giverny (about 45 minutes away). Visit Monet’s Garden and see the beautiful water lilies and Japanese bridge. It’s like stepping into a painting!

Evening:

• Drive back to Paris and enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like Chez Janou, which has a lovely courtyard.

## Day 3: Normandy – History and Beaches

Morning:

• Hit the road early to Normandy (about 2.5 hours from Paris). Your first stop is Caen, where you can visit the Caen Memorial Museum. It’s educational and engaging for kids!

Afternoon:

• Head to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. It’s a poignant experience, and the beach is beautiful for a family stroll.
• Grab lunch at a local bistro in Arromanches.

Evening:

• Drive to Bayeux (about 30 minutes) and check into a family-friendly hotel. Enjoy dinner at Le Pommier and try some local specialties.

## Day 4: Mont Saint-Michel

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to Mont Saint-Michel (about 1.5 hours). This iconic island commune is a must-see! Explore the abbey and the charming streets.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at one of the restaurants on the island. Try the famous omelet at La Mère Poulard!
• Spend the afternoon exploring the tidal flats and learning about the history of this magical place.

Evening:

• Drive back to Bayeux for dinner and perhaps a stroll through the town. The Bayeux Tapestry is also worth a visit if you have time!

## Day 5: Loire Valley – Castles and Wine

Morning:

• Depart for the Loire Valley (about 3 hours from Bayeux). Your first stop is Château de Chambord, one of the most recognizable castles in France. The grounds are perfect for a family picnic!

Afternoon:

• After exploring Chambord, head to Château de Chenonceau. This castle is stunning and has beautiful gardens. Kids will love the fairy-tale vibe!
• Enjoy lunch at the castle café or a nearby restaurant.

Evening:

• Drive to Amboise for dinner. This charming town has a lovely atmosphere, and you can visit Château d'Amboise if time allows.
• Spend your last night soaking in the beauty of the Loire Valley!

Tips for Your Road Trip:

• Make sure to have a good playlist or some audiobooks for the drive!
• Pack snacks and drinks for the road to keep everyone happy.
• Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially in popular areas.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family in France! Bon voyage! 🌍✨