Family Holidays in France to Share, Explore and Enjoy Together

Make the most of your next holiday together by exploring France with the kids in tow. From fun discoveries and shared adventures to moments of pure relaxation, discover our selection of inspiring budget-friendly trip ideas to suit each member of the family.

Treat your family to a holiday that’s simple, accessible and full of unforgettable moments. From crisp mountain air to sunny seaside strolls, from peaceful countryside escapes to the buzz of the city, France offers an incredible variety of landscapes, along with a wealth of fun-filled activities and cultural discoveries – all without spending hours in transit.

Indeed, the less time you spend getting there, the more time you have to play, explore and enjoy yourself. Picture your children wide-eyed in front of a fairytale château, racing along the beach, hiking through nature or trying something new for the first time. And for you? A stress-free break that’s easy to plan and even easier to enjoy.

A family holiday in France also helps you stay in control of your budget and avoid nasty surprises. Wherever you go, there are options to suit all ages, interests and seasons. Whether you’re after adventure, culture or simply quality time together, you’re sure to find the perfect destination for your tribe.

Take a breath of invigorating sea air and create lasting family memories by the coast. In Normandy, Deauville is a hit with families. With its iconic beaches, pony rides and colourful kites dancing across the sand, there’s something for every age. ibis Deauville Centre, just a stone’s throw from the famous boardwalk, has spacious duplex rooms that sleep up to four.

Further south in Brittany, make for Saint-Malo. Spend the day exploring the ramparts, gliding through the old town on a Segway or playing on the long sandy beach – then drop your bags at ibis Saint-Malo Plage. Just steps from the sea, the hotel offers apartment-style rooms ideal for families travelling with two or three children.

Or head south to Nouvelle-Aquitaine and explore Arcachon Bay. Think sandcastles for little ones, surfing sessions for teens and oyster tasting for the grown-ups – there’s something for all of you. Nearby, ibis Styles Arcachon Gujan-Mestras is a family-friendly option close to the beaches, with a heated pool open between April and October that’s perfect for unwinding after a day out.

Family holidays in the mountains offer a whole new way to explore France together. In the Alps, get the kids started on the slopes of Chamonix while you take in stunning views of the snow-capped Mont Blanc range. For a change of pace, hop on a sledge and whizz down the runs in Les Houches or Saint-Gervais-les-Bains – guaranteed laughter all round! In summer, the Annecy region turns into a natural playground: hike along the lake, try beginner-friendly rock climbing in Talloires or cool off with a canyoning adventure in Montmin Gorge. After a day of outdoor fun, relax in the Sweet Bed™ by ibis at ibis Annecy Centre Vieille Ville – a soft cocoon in which to recharge for your next day’s adventure.

In Auvergne, there’s nothing like the sense of achievement when you reach the top of the Puy de Dôme volcano – whether you’ve climbed the Chemin des Chèvres or the steeper Muletiers route, or simply taken the scenic electric train. Explore the fascinating world of Vulcania theme park or paddle together across the calm waters of Lake Chambon.

And in the Haute-Pyrénées, reconnect with nature on a scenic walk above Cauterets or Luz-Saint-Sauveur, and then wind down in the soothing thermal waters of Bagnères-de-Luchon.

For many, a family holiday in France means the calm and charm of the countryside. Here are a few destinations that combine a peaceful ambience with activities suitable for everyone.

In the Dordogne, explore the castles at Castelnaud-la-Chapelle or Beynac before drifting downriver to admire cliffside houses from the water. As well as easy access to all the region has to offer, ibis Sarlat makes an ideal base for families, with rooms sleeping up to five guests in double, single and bunk beds. 

In the Lot, head deep underground with a descent into the Gouffre de Padirac – a spectacular network of subterranean caverns and rivers you can explore by boat – it’s just as fascinating for adults as it is for kids.

In Ardèche, adventure awaits at Vallon-Pont-d’Arc: hire a canoe to see the soaring limestone arch spanning the river, try a treetop trail or visit a working farm where little ones can meet the animals. For a budget-friendly stay, ibis budget Aubenas is a practical and family-ready choice close to nature.

And in Alsace, alternate between strolls through flower-filled villages and walks in the Vosges foothills. At the end of the day, gather around a tarte flambée (pizza with créme fraîche, onion and crispy bacon) or a bowl of spätzle (creamy, cheesy egg noodles) in a setting that invites you to slow down and truly relish the moment.

Looking to combine cultural outings, time to relax and a bit of history? A city break in France could be just the ticket for your next family holiday.

In Paris, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do with the kids. Head up the Eiffel Tower, put your knowledge to the test at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, cruise along the Seine on a bateau mouche, then let off steam at the Jardin d’Acclimatation amusement park. When it’s time to recharge, ibis Paris Avenue d’Italie 13th is a handy base, with snacks and light meals available 24/7.

Fancy a change of scenery? Set your sights on Lyon. Wander through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon, slip through hidden passageways known as traboules, enjoy a slice of pink praline tart from a local bakery, and spend the afternoon at the Parc de la Tête d’Or, where you’ll find a zoo and rowing boats. Travelling by train? ibis Lyon Gare La Part-Dieu is a budget-friendly hotel just a short walk from the city’s station and main sights.

Further north, Lille charms with its old town, family-friendly estaminets (traditional taverns) and the Palais des Beaux-Arts – a hit even with younger visitors. Don’t miss seasonal events like the giant Ferris wheel on the Grand’Place.

Over on the Atlantic coast, Nantes delights all ages with its giant mechanical elephant at the Machines de l’Île, riverside trails along the Loire, its château and natural history museum perfectly suited to family visits.

With fun, original ideas for every age group, France offers endless ways to shake up your usual holiday routine. Why not hop aboard a Canal du Midi narrow boat where everyone gets a turn at the helm? Or set off on a family cycling trip along some of the country’s most scenic routes, pedalling together through spectacular landscapes? You could also plan a themed break – from castles and local legends to historical mysteries or amusement parks – to surprise and delight the whole gang.

A little planning goes a long way when you’re travelling with children. Keep luggage to a minimum – especially if you’re staying somewhere with handy extras like baby gear or on-site food options. Booking tickets for trains and tourist attractions in advance helps avoid queues and last-minute stress. And don’t overfill your schedule: aim for a mix of active time and slower-paced moments to suit the whole family.

With family rooms, kid-friendly dining and convenient locations near attractions, train stations and airports, our budget-friendly hotels across France are designed to make family travel simpler and more enjoyable for all of you – so you can spend less time worrying about the details, and more time enjoying the moments that matter.