The Best 5 Places in France to Visit in 2026
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is designed for families travelling with children, looking for destinations that combine culture, nature, safety, and ease of travel. All recommendations prioritise walkability, transport accessibility, family-friendly attractions, and relaxed travel pace.
1. Paris – Culture, Parks and Magic for All Ages
Overview
Paris is far more than museums and landmarks. For families, it offers wide green parks, boat cruises on the Seine, interactive museums, and world‑class entertainment just outside the city.
Why Visit in 2026
Continued improvements to pedestrian areas and family‑friendly public spaces
Disneyland Paris keeps expanding attractions for younger children
Excellent rail connections from the UK and across Europe
Museums increasingly offer children’s trails and hands‑on workshops
Best Time to Visit
April–June or September–October
Mild weather, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for walking and outdoor activities.
2. Alsace – Fairytale Villages and Easy Travel
Overview
Alsace feels like a storybook region, with colourful half‑timbered houses, compact towns, and peaceful countryside. Distances are short, making it ideal for families.
Why Visit in 2026
Growing popularity as a quieter alternative to heavily touristed regions
Excellent train access via Strasbourg and nearby international airports
Safe, walkable villages that are easy to explore with children
Strong food culture with simple, child‑friendly dishes
Best Time to Visit
May–June or September
Warm but not hot, ideal for village walks and outdoor cafés.
3. Dordogne – Nature, Castles and Prehistoric Adventures
Overview
The Dordogne is one of France’s most family‑friendly rural regions, offering rivers, castles, caves and relaxed countryside living.
Why Visit in 2026
Increasing focus on slow travel and outdoor family holidays
Safe river activities such as canoeing and swimming
Educational attractions including prehistoric cave replicas
Excellent value for family‑sized accommodation
Best Time to Visit
June or early September
Warm enough for water activities without the intense heat of peak summer.
4. The French Alps (Summer) – Active Family Adventures
Overview
In summer, the French Alps become a giant outdoor playground with lakes, cable cars, gentle hiking trails and adventure parks designed for families.
Why Visit in 2026
Strong investment in year‑round family tourism infrastructure
Many resorts now specialise in summer activities for children
Cooler temperatures compared to southern France
High safety standards and excellent facilities
Best Time to Visit
July–August
Perfect for escaping summer heat and enjoying fresh mountain air.
5. Brittany – Coast, History and Space to Explore
Overview
Brittany offers dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches, historic towns and a strong local identity, all without the crowds of the Mediterranean.
Why Visit in 2026
Rising popularity for sustainable and family‑focused travel
Clean beaches with plenty of space for children
Fascinating pirate history and walled coastal towns
Cooler, comfortable summer climate
Best Time to Visit
June–August
Ideal for coastal walks, beach days and outdoor dining.
Final Tips for Families Travelling in France in 2026
France offers excellent healthcare and child‑friendly infrastructure
Trains are reliable and easy to use with children
Family rooms and apartments are widely available
Restaurants are generally welcoming to children
France remains one of Europe’s best destinations for stress‑free, enriching family travel — and 2026 is an ideal year to explore it.