Maximizing Two Days in Paris: A Family Guide to Sights, Dining, and Luxury Stays
Our family’s first vacation since the pandemic began, we chose Paris as a grand welcome home. Though only two days were available before heading to the countryside for a larger reunion, we maximized every moment.
With health and safety still a priority, we focused on open‑air experiences. Paris offers an abundance of beautiful gardens and parks that make for memorable family outings.
Day 1: Classic Open‑Air Highlights
At the heart of the city, the Jardin des Tuileries feels like a fairy‑tale oasis. We rode the carousel, sampled the sugary “Barbe de Papa” (Santa’s Beard), and watched the resident goat “trim” the lawns—an unusual, charming sight that adds character to the park.
We also strolled through the Marché aux Fleurs, the daily flower market. The fragrant blossoms were a delight, and a Sunday visit would add a live bird market to the mix.
Tip: Skip the crowds—visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience.
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and Culture
The Big Bus Paris hop‑on, hop‑off double‑decker offers a stress‑free way to see the city’s major sights. Our one‑day ticket was 10% cheaper when booked online, and the open‑top bus passes by the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Place de la Madeleine. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, and Wi‑Fi keeps you connected.
The Eiffel Tower remains the quintessential Paris landmark. We took the glass‑enclosed elevator to the summit, enjoying sweeping views of the city’s boulevards. Online tickets allow you to skip the line, and the official visitor app provides real‑time updates.
With time limited, we chose the Musée d’Orsay for its world‑class Impressionist and Post‑Impressionist collection. The former train station’s Beaux‑Arts architecture and abundant natural light create a perfect backdrop for works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir.
Family‑Friendly Dining
Paris’s diverse culinary scene offers something for every palate. We started with a quick banh mi from Miss Banh Mi, a beloved spot for Vietnamese street food. A short walk brought us to Au Bon Couscous in the Latin Quarter, where the Moroccan community’s couscous dishes shine.
For dinner, Au Canon des Invalides provided a relaxed bistro atmosphere with a stunning Eiffel Tower view. The menu featured classic French fare—salads, charcuterie, steak tartare, and French onion soup topped with melted cheese. A children’s menu under €10 is a rarity in Paris and ensured the little ones were satisfied.
Don’t miss the patisseries: Ladurée’s jewel‑tone macarons and Tapisserie’s seasonal cakes and éclairs are must‑tries. For those with gluten sensitivities, Chambelland’s offers organic, gluten‑free breads baked on site, including a delicious cocoa bread and orange‑infused sugar bread.
Accommodations: Luxury Meets Family‑Friendly
We chose the five‑star Castille Paris for its central location on Rue Cambon, steps from the Louvre and high‑end boutiques. The hotel’s welcoming staff and the resident cat, Heliot, add a warm touch. Family suites comfortably accommodate four, with two children up to age 16 staying free. Optional amenities—cribs, bath toys, high chairs, strollers, and potty seats—are available upon request.
The courtyard patio, adorned with frescoes and a Roman‑style fountain, is an ideal spot for a leisurely breakfast of pastries, cheeses, meats, eggs, cereal, and fresh‑squeezed juice. The gentle sound of the fountain sets a tranquil tone for the day.
With these carefully chosen sights, dining, and accommodations, two days in Paris can feel like an unforgettable, well‑planned family adventure.
