Where to go on vacation in France with children in 2025? 16 destination ideas

Published on 24/04/2025 • by Aliénor DE PERIER

Where to go on vacation with children? 16 destinations in France© Monkey Business - Adobe Stock

Here's a question that families are regularly asked: where to go on vacation in France? And where should they go to ensure that everyone has a great time? The activities on offer must not only meet everyone's wishes, but also be suitable for all ages. Let's be reassured right away: in France, there are a multitude of regions that are excellent hosts for parents accompanied by their children. From the rocky coasts of Brittany, through the hilly landscapes of central and southern France, to the lush greenery of the Dordogne, there's something for everyone, and family getaways are always synonymous with memorable moments. Here's our selection of destinations where you can take your children on vacation in France.

1. The Ardèche, charming villages and rolling countryside

Aerial view of the Narural arch at Vallon Pont d'arc in the Ardèche canyon, France© Samuel Borges Photography - Shutterstock.com

With its wild natural sites and historic villages, l'Ardèche is a great place to take your children on vacation in France. Especially for those who love outdoor activities. The Monts d'Ardèche nature park can be explored by bike, and the Ardèche gorges are ideal for canoeing. In fine weather, there are plenty of places to picnic and swim. Not only on the beaches around the Pont d'Arc, but also in the villages of the Ardèche, such as Vogüé and Balazuc. And let's not forget the Chauvet caves and their ancient cave paintings, a source of wonder for young and old alike.

Take the opportunity to discover the 11 most beautiful walks in the Ardèche!

And if you're dreaming of flying out of France, check out our dedicated article: 10 ideal destinations for travelling with children in Europe.

2. The Camargue, a wild land for vacations in France

Camargue white horses in the Camargue Regional Park's marshland nature reserve© Vadim Petrakov - Shutterstock.com

The Camargue is another area in the south of France that lends itself perfectly to family vacations. Here, too, you can make the most of the outdoors and discover the flora and fauna. Take a bike ride through the Camargue regional nature park to observe the landscapes and animals that call the area home. Of course, the Camargue is also the place to go birdwatching with the kids. Equipped with binoculars, you can try tocatch a glimpse of the flagship species, including the splendid pink flamingo. The area is also ideal for horse-riding, and if you'd like to see the bulls being bred, head for the famous manades. And let's not forget the beautiful historic towns of Aigues-Mortes, where you can enjoy a stroll while eating an ice cream, and the Mediterranean beaches for swimming, such as Grau du Roi.

What to do in the Camargue? The 15 most beautiful places to visit

3. Auvergne, dreaming amidst volcanoes

Puy de Dome - Auvergne in France - Volcanic landscape and blue sky© margouillat photo - Shutterstock.com

For families looking for a green vacation in France with their children, we recommend the Auvergne! You can visit the Vulcania park to learn more about volcanoes and their history, or visit the Auvergne wildlife park to see many rare and endangered species. The Auvergne also offers a multitude of hiking and biking trails , on the side of a volcano or in the woods. Nature is the perfect setting for a wide range of outdoor family activities. And to make your stay even more enchanting, you can book an unusual, eco-friendly accommodation, an ideal option for disconnecting from everyday life.

Would you like to prepare your vacation in the best possible way? Discover all the must-see places to visit with your family in Auvergne!

4. Hauts-de-France, between northern beaches and fun activities

Seals in the Baie de Somme© Philippe PATERNOLLI - Shutterstock.com

Wondering where to go on vacation in France? Then head for the north of France, where you and your family can enjoy the region's many attractions. The Hauts-de-France region is perfect for having a good time in theme parks such as Bagatelle and Dennlys Parc. And then there's the seaside and the wide expanses of sand. Beaches offer the chance to soak up the sun and set up some great play sessions with the kids. And let's not forget the cultural sites where you can learn more about the D-Day landings and the Baie de Somme, which will gently dazzle children when they spot the seals.

Still not sure? Check out our article on all the must-sees and must-dos in the Baie de Somme!

5. Where to go on vacation in France with children? Brittany, a multitude of enchanting sites

Yachts in a bay in the town of Tregastel on the Côte de Granit Rose © Boris Stroujko - Shutterstock.com

For family vacations, Brittany is a safe bet for French holidaymakers, with an abundance of places to visit with the whole family. Saint-Malo and Dinan are towns steeped in history, ideal for walks punctuated by gourmet moments over crêpes and other regional specialities. You can also visit the Brocéliande forest to discover its legends, and step back in time before the incredible menhirs of Carnac. As for the coastline, it's ideal for relaxing on the beach, whether you're heading for the Pink Granite Coast or the islands of the Gulf of Morbihan. What's more, it's perfectly possible to plan an itinerant vacation in Brittany, sailing from island to island with the kids, from Bréhat to Belle-Île-en-Mer and Ouessant.

Wondering what to do in Finistère? Discover our 21 must-sees. And if you'd like to discover the Côtes-d'Armor, our selection of 23 must-dos will delight you!

6. Where to go on vacation in France? In the calanques of Provence

Calanque de Port Pin © Gaspar Janos - Shutterstock.com

On hot summer days, family vacations on the Provencal coast are an ideal place to relax and unwind, especially around Marseille and Cassis . The Prado beaches in Marseille are ideal for children to play on in peace and quiet. Cassis, on the other hand, offers a more intimate setting. If the Provencal coastline is recommended for a pleasant vacation with the kids, it's because here, the Mediterranean displays its most beautiful colors, notably in its unmissable calanques. There are many beautiful walks leading to these little corners of paradise. The hike to the Sugiton calanque is suitable for children. In any case, you can also rent a boat for the pleasure of reaching the calanques by sea, with ease.

7. Where to go on vacation in France with children? Jura, the gentle mountains of Eastern France

Cascades du Hérisson © Arnaud Martinez - Shutterstock.com

The Jura is a wonderful nature destination. It's a great place to go on vacation in France, where you can enjoy a little peace and quiet when you're on vacation. A multitude of activities are available for the whole family, such as walking to the sublime Hérisson waterfalls. The region also boasts a number of exceptional lakes, including the verdant Lac de Voulant, France's third largest man-made lake. Swimming, canoeing, pedal boating, stand-up paddling - there' s a wide range of water sports on offer, as well as caving, canyoning and mountain biking. The Jura also boasts a large number of cycle routes and greenways for cycling families. The Jura's subterranean treasures are not to be missed either, and the Baume-les-Messieurs cave fascinates with its stalagmites, stalactites and mineral draperies.

Fancy a family getaway in the Jura? Discover our Top 11 of the most beautiful hikes to do in the Jura and our Top 15 of the most beautiful villages to visit in the Jura.

8. Queyras, a vacation paradise for children in France

Saint Véran, Queyras Regional Nature Park. Europe's highest village (2042m altitude) © BTWImages - Shutterstock.com

The Queyras region of the Hautes-Alpes offers a wide range of experiences for adventurers young and old. And here too, nature lovers have plenty to keep them busy. For example, you can raft down a river, climb rock faces with professionals and test your resistance to vertigo, or mountain bike along trails to enjoy breathtaking mountain panoramas. Queyras also boasts a number of village resorts where you can set down your suitcases and step right up to the summits. And if children enjoy the company of animals, then a walk with a donkey or a canine trek will combine the pleasure of walking with a bonding moment with the animals.

9. Where to go on vacation in France with children? Vendée, between land and sea

Puy du Fou theme park © Alexey Gorshenin - Shutterstock.com

A holiday in the Vendée with children is full of surprises. First and foremost, there's the beauty of the coastline, which has preserved its wild character in key locations such as the islands of Noirmoutier and Yeu. Of course, time at the beach is a must during a family holiday in Vendée. To put stars in the eyes of children and adults alike, you can also treat yourself to an evening at the Puy du Fou, whose shows are recognized the world over and have won numerous awards. The Vendée is also home to some lovely bocage countryside, and for an experience that's sure to appeal to children, head to Commequiers for a vélo-rail ride. Last but not least, the northern Marais Poitevin and the peaceful boat trips in the heart of the Venise Verte are also wonderful places to go on vacation in France.

Discover our Top 11 most beautiful beaches in Vendée and the 11 most beautiful walks to do in Vendée!

10. The Dordogne, a playground for children

Les Jardins de Marqueyssac© csp - Shutterstock.com

We're all familiar with the beauty of the Dordogne, its nature, heritage and gastronomy, but it's also an ideal place to take children on a vacation in the French countryside. There are countless opportunities to visit and experience the countryside, visit monuments or come into contact with animals. Start, for example, by exploring the paths around the superb châteaux of Monbazillac and Bridoire on an electric scooter, before heading off another day to visit a honey factory or an educational farm to get up close and personal with goats and horses. To observe the beauty of the villages and the nature that surrounds them, a canoe trip down the Dordogne between Vitrac and Beynac always leaves incredible images in your mind. A boat trip to the Gouffre de Padirac, or a visit to the Lascaux caves, are other moments that promise a vacation to remember.

11. The Basque Country, the ideal destination for a vacation in France

The Basque Country, ideal for vacations with children© travnikovstudio - Adobe Stock

This area, shared by France and Spain, is an ideal place for a family vacation. You can discover some of the most beautiful villages in the Basque Country, such as Sare , where you can explore the surrounding area on a steam train. And don't miss the Sare caves, where interactive tours tell the story of prehistoric life in the cave. Don't miss Espelette, famous for its peppers, which are hung on houses and dried in the open air. Shopkeepers will be delighted to show you their chilli products: jams, cheeses or chocolate, you'll be spoiled for choice in Espelette! The seaside resort of Guétary and the caves of Saint-Martin-d'Arberoue are also must-sees in the region. If you're looking for a fun break with the kids, there are several amusement parks in the Basque Country. Among them, we recommend the Oihana adventure park and WowPark, one of the largest in the region.

12. Where to go on vacation in France with children? The Drôme for family fun and rejuvenation

The Drôme for family fun and relaxation© Richard Semik - Adobe Stock

Every year, many families are seduced by the Drôme department, a little-known destination for vacations in France, but with an abundance of nature and activities to enjoy. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the Drôme's trails and regional nature parks. It's an ideal place to recharge your batteries and indulge yourself. The sun shines brightly, adding to the beauty of the scenery. There are numerous hilltop villages, monuments and sites to discover, some of which are very popular, such as the Ferme aux Crocodiles in Pierrelatte, the Palais idéal du facteur Cheval in Hauterives, one of the most unusual places to visit in France, or the Cité du Chocolat in Tain-l'Ermitage. You'll also find châteaux, including the not-to-be-missed Château de Grignan, where the Marquise de Sévigné ended her life, and which hosts remarkable evening parties every summer.

Here's a top 17 list of things to do in the Drôme on your next vacation.

13. Cantal for vacations in the heart of nature

The department of Cantal, inthe Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, is the ideal place for a family vacation. Nature lovers will find it a pleasant, rich and incredibly beautiful place. In addition to its peaceful green meadows where cows graze, Cantal boasts a rich historical heritage. There are numerous Romanesque churches, castles and medieval towns such as Murat, Marcolès and Saint-Flour, a land of art and history. Added to this are characterful villages such as Salers and Tournemire, one of France's most beautiful villages, with its elegant Château d'Anjony and its four towers. Cantal, which with Lioran is home to the largest ski area in the Massif Central, is also ideal for hiking and cycling. The region's itineraries, including the Camino de Compostela, offer numerous gourmet stops.

Discover the 15 must-sees during your stay in Cantal!

14. Where to go on vacation in France with children? Arcachon between boats and local wildlife

The Arcachon basin, which opens onto the Atlantic Ocean, is an ideal destination for a family vacation, or even a weekend away! With beaches, boats, wildlife and local specialities, you'll have every opportunity to enjoy a memorable vacation! The seafront, stretching for almost 3 kilometers, is bustling with bars and restaurants, and the long pier is a must-see. Arcachon also offers many opportunities for walks along the basin, on the southern beaches and especially on the Dune du Pilat, that immense hill of sand. If you're brave enough to climb to the top, you' ll enjoy a magnificent view of the region's landmarks.

15. Mont-Saint-Michel, a mythical site in Normandy

It's one of Normandy's tourist jewels. Every year, Mont-Saint-Michel attracts 2.5 million visitors, both tourists and pilgrims. Located in the Manche département of Normandy, a visit to Mont-Saint-Michel is a must when vacationing in this region or in Brittany. There are numerous possibilities for visits, activities and natural sights. While strolling around the bay can be a fun and interesting activity, there are many other ways to enjoy it. Walks and hikes are available in the surrounding area. Whether you prefer to walk, cycle or even ride a horse, there's plenty to do around Mont-Saint-Michel! The GR 223 long-distance hiking trail awaits you, particularly from Granville, crossing the region to the "Wonder of the West". So it's possible to devote a day or two to visiting this place on a weekend or vacation.

Want to know what to do at Mont Saint-Michel to plan your family vacation? Discoverthe 13 must-do activities at Mont-Saint-Michel, as well as our article Traverser la Baie du Mont St Michel à pied - informations et conseils.

16. Where to go on vacation in France with children? Avignon, discovering history with the whole family

Avignon is a historic city whose impressive ramparts date back to the ^14th century, when it was the seat of Christianity in the West. The city's emblematic papal residence, the famous Palace of the Popes, remains from this period of spirituality. This imposing monument remains one of the finest examples of European Gothic architecture. Avignon is also a world-renowned cultural center, hosting the best in contemporary theater each year. Between Provence and Languedoc, Avignon is hard to define, so unique is its cultural and historical identity, and so pleasant is its relaxed lifestyle. To make sure you don't miss a thing on your family vacation in Avignon, here are our top 13 must-sees in the city. If you're going for a short break, check out our article on Visiting Avignon in 2 or 3 days: what to do in a weekend.

And don't forget to check out our selection of the most beautiful villages in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region !

Where to go on vacation with a baby?

Striking a balance between the arrival of a new baby in the family and the desire to travel can sometimes be complex. We often ask ourselves many questions about how to plan our stay: will jet lag disrupt the baby's rhythm? Will we be able to get around easily? Will we be able to find all the necessary equipment? In reality, it's perfectly possible to travel with a baby, whether in Europe or the rest of the world! Of course, it does require a bit of organization, but some destinations seem to be ideal for families. Here's our selection of destinations where you can take your baby for a parent-child trip that promises to be unforgettable!

Planning a vacation with your children? Take a look at our train fares and book now !

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