Provence with kids
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur offers plenty of family-friendly destinations and activities for those traveling with small children.
Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do with young kids in the region:
- Beaches: The coastal areas of French Reviera have numerous family-friendly beaches. Head to sandy beaches like Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez or Plage de la Garoupe in Antibes, where kids can build sandcastles and paddle in the shallow waters.
- Aquariums and Zoos: Visit the Marineland in Antibes, a marine animal park with dolphins, killer whales, and more. The Parc Phoenix in Nice features a botanical garden and a zoo with various animal species.
- Water Parks: Aqualand in Frejus and Aquasplash in Antibes are water parks with slides, pools, and water attractions that kids of all ages can enjoy.
- Boat Tours: Take a family-friendly boat tour along the coast. Some tours offer dolphin watching, which can be exciting for kids.
- Island Adventures: Explore the Iles d’Hyères, including Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and Île du Levant. These islands have beautiful beaches, walking trails, and opportunities for picnics.
- Provencal Markets: Stroll through the vibrant markets in towns and villages like Aix-en-Provence or Nice. Let your kids discover fresh produce, colorful flowers, and local sweets.
- Historical Sites: While historical sites may not be the most exciting for young children, you can make it fun by turning it into a treasure hunt or exploration game. Places like the Roman ruins in Arles or the Palais des Papes in Avignon offer a glimpse into the past.
- Animal Encounters: Visit animal sanctuaries and farms like the Parc Zoologique de Frejus or the Ferme Sainte-Croix. Kids can get up close to animals and learn about conservation efforts.
- Natural Parks: Explore the beautiful natural parks of Provence, such as the Calanques near Marseille, where you can take family-friendly hikes and enjoy stunning coastal views.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in family-friendly outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or picnicking in the picturesque countryside or regional parks.
- Cultural Experiences: Introduce your children to the region’s culture by attending local festivals, art exhibitions, or music performances. Some events are designed with families in mind.
- Playgrounds and Parks: Most towns and cities in Provence have public parks and playgrounds where kids can run, play, and burn off some energy.
Remember to plan your activities according to your children’s ages and interests. PACA offers a wide range of options for family-friendly fun, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply some relaxing beach time.
Where it is better NOT to go with kids?
While Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur offers many family-friendly destinations, there are a few places that may be less suitable for families with children, depending on your preferences and the age of your kids. Here are some examples:
- Cannes (during major events): Cannes is known for its glamorous events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. During these times, the city can become crowded and bustling, which may not be ideal for families with young children looking for a quieter vacation.
- Monaco (Monte Carlo): Monaco is famous for its upscale casinos and luxury lifestyle. It may not be the most child-friendly destination, as many activities cater to adults, and the city can be quite expensive.
- Marseille (certain neighborhoods): While Marseille has beautiful coastal areas and attractions, some neighborhoods in the city have higher crime rates and may not be as family-friendly. It’s essential to research specific areas and choose accommodations wisely.
- St. Tropez (during peak season): St. Tropez is a trendy destination, known for its nightlife and upscale clientele. During the peak summer season, the town can be crowded, and the party atmosphere may not be suitable for families with children.
- Hiking Trails: While PACA offers excellent hiking opportunities, some trails may be challenging or dangerous for young children due to steep terrain, cliffs, or long distances. Always research the difficulty level before embarking on a hike with kids.
- Hilled Villages: Some remote villages in the region may lack family-friendly amenities like playgrounds or easy access with strollers. Most beautiful villages of Provence, like Gordes, are usualy pebble-stoned and pretty steep, so travel strollers will be not the best option if you are travelling with toddlers.
It’s important to note that PACA is a diverse region with plenty of family-friendly destinations, and your experience can vary depending on the time of year and your specific interests. While these places may be less family-oriented, they can still offer unique experiences for adults and older children. Always research and plan your trip according to your family’s needs and preferences.
Places for families with babies and toddlers
If you’re traveling with babies and toddlers and want a family-friendly destination in Provence that is accessible with a stroller, consider the following:
- Nice: Nice is one of the more stroller-friendly cities in the region. You can take leisurely walks along the Promenade des Anglais, which runs along the Mediterranean coast and has a wide, paved promenade suitable for strollers. The Old Town (Vieux Nice) also has narrow but manageable streets with cafes and shops. Nice has family-friendly beaches and parks, such as the Promenade du Paillon, where kids can play in fountains.
- Antibes: Antibes is known for its beautiful beaches and charming Old Town. You can easily navigate the stroller-friendly streets of the Old Town and visit the Provencal Market. Antibes also has the Marineland Antibes theme park, where children can enjoy marine life shows and attractions.
- Aix-en-Provence: Aix-en-Provence has a more relaxed pace and is manageable with a stroller. You can stroll along the Cours Mirabeau, visit parks like Parc Jourdan, and explore the city’s fountains and squares. The city has a quieter atmosphere compared to some of the coastal destinations.
- Cassis: Cassis is a lovely coastal town that’s relatively stroller-friendly. You can explore the charming harbor area, visit the Calanques National Park (although some trails may not be suitable with a stroller), and enjoy family-friendly boat trips to see the stunning cliffs.
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