Planning a family trip to Europe? Chances are, you’re staring down the usual suspects: London and Paris. Two cities steeped in history, brimming with iconic landmarks, and packed with enough things to do to keep both kids and adults from losing their minds. But here’s the real question—when push comes to shove, which one is right for your next family adventure? Let’s break it down, no sugar-coating, and see which city ticks more boxes for your crew.
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1. Ease of Getting Around
London: London is well-known for its extensive and efficient public transportation system. The London Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube) is easy to navigate, even for tourists.
As a family of four, we had no problem using the Tube, it was our preferred way of getting around London. Children under 11 travel for free on buses and the Tube when accompanied by an adult, making it a family-friendly option.
London’s buses, trains, and famous black cabs are all accessible for strollers, though some Tube stations still have stairs, which can be tricky with young children.
Paris: Paris also has an extensive Metro system that can get you nearly anywhere in the city. The Paris metro is also very easy to use, it’s almost impossible to get lost.
However, the Metro stations are less stroller-friendly than London’s Tube, with many lacking elevators or escalators. That said, Paris is more walkable, and for families who prefer to explore on foot, the city’s compact layout is ideal.
Public transportation is free for children under 4, and reduced fares are available for kids aged 4-10.
Winner: London – The accessibility of the Tube and the free travel for young children give London an edge for families with small kids.
2. Family-Friendly Attractions
London: London is packed with family attractions, including world-famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben. For younger children, the city offers attractions such as the London Zoo, Hamleys (one of the biggest toy stores in the world), and the Diana Memorial Playground.
Museums like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are both free and filled with interactive exhibits, perfect for kids.
Paris: Paris has its own share of iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame. Kids will love riding a boat along the Seine or taking a carousel ride at the Jardin des Tuileries or near the Eiffel Tower.
Disneyland Paris is also a huge draw for families and just a short train ride away from the city. While many Parisian museums, like the Louvre, may not cater specifically to children, attractions such as the Cité des Sciences or Parc Astérix (another theme park) are excellent for younger visitors.
Winner: Tie – Both cities offer fantastic attractions for families, though the type of experience you’re after (historical landmarks vs. theme parks) may sway your decision.
3. Food and Dining Experience
London: London’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering something for every palate, including international cuisines. For instance, we had some of the best Asian food ever near Chinatown.
Many restaurants are family-friendly, with some offering special menus for kids. Traditional English fare, such as fish and chips or Sunday roasts, are simple and generally well-liked by children. Pubs often welcome families during the day, providing a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Paris: Parisian cuisine might be a bit more sophisticated, but don’t let that intimidate you. You can still find child-friendly options like crepes, croissants, and baguette sandwiches that kids love.
Many Parisian restaurants are more formal than those in London, which may not always cater to families with young children. That said, plenty of casual bistros and cafes offer simple meals, and you can’t beat a picnic at one of Paris’ lovely parks with fresh bread and cheese.
And our kids loved the crepe stands and patisseries scattered around the city that made grabbing a sweet treat quick and easy.
Winner: London – For its wide variety of international foods and family-friendly dining options, London slightly edges out Paris in this category.
4. Parks and Outdoor Spaces
London: London is famous for its expansive green spaces, making it a great city for families who need a break from sightseeing. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew offer plenty of room for kids to run around and explore.
Many parks in London also have playgrounds, boat rentals, and even small zoos, providing plenty of outdoor entertainment options.
Paris: Paris may be known for its charming parks and gardens, but they tend to be smaller and more formal than London’s parks. The Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin de Tuileries are standouts, with its puppet shows, ponds, and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families.
The Bois de Boulogne, located on the outskirts of Paris, is another option with its own zoo and amusement park. While beautiful, Paris’ parks are generally more structured, with less open space for free play.
Winner: London – London’s abundance of large, open parks makes it the better choice for families looking to spend time outdoors.
5. Cost of Travel
London: London is notoriously expensive, especially when it comes to accommodations and dining out. However, many of the city’s top attractions, including its world-class museums, are free to visit so it’s possible to visit London on a budget.
Public transportation is affordable, especially with travel cards or contactless payment options. That said, the cost of family-friendly activities like the London Eye or boat rides can quickly add up.
Paris: Paris is also an expensive destination, but it tends to offer more budget-friendly dining options, such as bakeries and cafes. While some of the city’s top attractions, like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, charge entrance fees, families can take advantage of free days or reduced fares for children.
The Paris Metro is affordable, though getting to major attractions outside the city, like Disneyland Paris, can be more costly.
Winner: Paris – Overall, Paris is slightly more affordable than London, especially when it comes to dining and transportation costs, but both cities can be enjoyed on a budget.
6. Cultural Experience and Language Barrier
London: One of London’s biggest advantages for families, especially those from English-speaking countries, is the lack of a language barrier. English is spoken everywhere, making it easy to navigate and communicate.
Additionally, London is a melting pot of cultures, offering exposure to a wide variety of global influences in food, art, and events.
Paris: In Paris, you’ll find English spoken in most tourist spots, but make no mistake—French runs the show. This can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, you get a more authentic dive into the culture.
On the other, it might take a bit more effort if you’re not up on your French. But honestly, that’s part of the fun. Exposing kids to a new language and culture can be a learning experience that sticks. Even picking up a few phrases can go a long way—not just for getting around, but for winning over the locals.
Winner: London – For families concerned about language barriers, London offers a more seamless experience, though Paris provides a unique opportunity for cultural immersion.
7. Weather and Best Time to Visit
London: London is known for its unpredictable weather, with frequent rain showers throughout the year. Summers are generally mild, with temperatures rarely exceeding 75°F (24°C), making it a comfortable season for families to explore the city.
Winters are cold and damp but rarely see snow. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather but can still be quite rainy, so packing waterproof gear is essential no matter when you visit.
Paris: Paris tends to have more stable weather than London, though it still experiences its fair share of rain, particularly in the spring. Summers can be quite warm, with temperatures reaching up to 80°F (27°C) in July and August.
Winter in Paris is relatively mild, but chilly, with occasional snowfalls. The best times to visit Paris are late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Winner: Paris – With warmer, more consistent weather, Paris edges out London, especially for families looking for outdoor activities during their trip.
Which City Is Better for Family Travel?
Choosing between London and Paris for a family vacation ultimately depends on your family’s preferences.
- Choose London if you’re looking for a more accessible city with lots of green spaces, free museums, and an easier dining experience for picky eaters.
- Choose Paris if you’re seeking iconic landmarks, a slightly more affordable trip, and the chance to visit Disneyland Paris.
If I had to pick just one, it’s Paris. Don’t get me wrong, we loved both cities, but Paris just hits different. Maybe it’s the fact that London decided to drench us with rain at every turn, but even without that, Paris stands in a league of its own. The sheer beauty of the city makes wandering its streets a pleasure, and landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and Versailles—well, you can’t beat that lineup. And let’s not forget the endless pit stops for crepes and other indulgent treats.
Don’t sweat the language barrier. Sure, French dominates, but you can get by just fine. And trust me, learning a few basic phrases goes a long way. The city itself? A breeze to explore, whether you’re on foot or jumping on the metro. Paris just has this flow, this ease, that makes every corner you turn feel like you’ve stumbled onto something extraordinary. It’s a city built for roaming, and that’s why we loved it.
Both cities are fantastic destinations for families, so whichever you choose, your family is sure to have an unforgettable adventure! However; if you have the time, why not try both? Check out our essential itinerary to help you plan a trip to see both of these amazing cities.