5-Day Family Getaway to Paris on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Paris

• Morning:
  • Arrive in Paris and check into a budget-friendly hotel or family-friendly Airbnb in a central location like the Latin Quarter or Montmartre.
  • Explore the Montmartre neighborhood, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica (free entry), and enjoy the street artists in the area.
• Afternoon:
  • Walk through Place du Tertre, a lively square with artists and cafés.
  • Stroll down to Moulin Rouge for a quick photo op outside (show not recommended for young children).
• Evening:
  • Enjoy a casual dinner at a local bistro. Look for prix fixe menus for good value.

Day 2: Paris Highlights

• Morning:
  • Visit the Eiffel Tower (choose the second-floor access by stairs option for a more budget-friendly and less crowded experience).
  • Walk along the Champs-Élysées and visit the Arc de Triomphe (consider viewing from the ground to save money).
• Afternoon:
  • Head to Jardin des Tuileries for a family picnic (grab sandwiches from a local bakery).
  • Visit the Louvre Museum (free entry for children under 18; consider visiting only key highlights to avoid fatigue).
• Evening:
  • Take a family-friendly Seine River Cruise (affordable options available, with discounts for children).

Day 3: Day Trip to Versailles

• Morning:
  • Take the RER train to Versailles (affordable family tickets available).
  • Visit the Palace of Versailles: Focus on the gardens (free entry), and consider skipping the palace interiors to save time and money.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch in Versailles (look for local cafés with affordable set menus).
  • Return to Paris and spend the afternoon exploring Île de la Cité, including a visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior view due to ongoing restoration).
• Evening:
  • Enjoy dinner in a family-friendly restaurant in Le Marais or Latin Quarter.

Day 4: Explore Paris Neighborhoods

• Morning:
  • Visit Musée d’Orsay (free for children under 18, reduced family rates available). Focus on Impressionist art.
  • Explore the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, with its historic cafés and bookshops.
• Afternoon:
  • Spend time at the Luxembourg Gardens: Perfect for families with playgrounds and space to relax.
  • Visit the Musée Rodin (free for children, low-cost entry for adults), and enjoy the sculptures in the garden.
• Evening:
  • Take it easy with a simple dinner at a local pizzeria or creperie.

Day 5: Family Fun and Shopping

• Morning:
  • Visit the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (City of Science and Industry), a great interactive museum for kids.
  • Stop by Parc de la Villette nearby, where kids can play and explore the outdoor exhibits.
• Afternoon:
  • Head to Rue de Rivoli for souvenir shopping, or visit Galeries Lafayette for a view from the rooftop terrace (free).
• Evening:
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at a budget-friendly family restaurant.