MandyManda

we will be staying at a friend's house in Paris in August with 2 young children ages 3 and 4.
Since the house is technically on the outskirt (mairie des lilas) we are planning on renting a car to get around. It will also be easier than taking a double stroller through the subways.
I am looking for intersting day trips within a short driving distance of paris, or fun activities for their age. I am hoping that in the event I do need to take my car into the city, parking won't be so hard that time of year. Any suggestions please for things to do with young children?

grandmere

I don't know about the driving into the city, but the following parks are wonderful places for children: Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries, and the Jardin d'Acclimatation in the Bois du Boulogne, which is actually kind of on the outskirts of "city center".

I just returned from Paris with my grandchildren, ages 8 and 5, and they loved these parks, too.

Have fun!

Christina

Given you are on the east side of Paris, I would think Bois de Vincennes would be more convenient for a big park. It has a zoo, I believe but I haven't been there. I have been to the acquarium near it but wasn't that impressed. Of course the Parc de Villete is very close to where you are, and that is mainly for kids anyway. It has multi-themed gardens and open areas for games and picnics, as well as the museum of science and industry, but that may be too old for 3-4 yr olds.

Of course Parc Asterix is out the way, also, but I'm not big on theme parks myself. http://www.parcasterix.fr/acces

nytraveler

If you are going to drive into the city assume you will have to park the car in a garage - and get around by foot or Metro - or taxi. Or you might consider taking a train into Paris and public transit from there.

MandyManda

Thank you for these suggestions! Does anyone have any idea if these attractions will remain open in august? and how easy/ hard it will be to find an open bakery/ supermarket?

Sarastro

I should think that a double stroller in the métro would be infinitely easier than trying to drive around Paris, even if parking is free on the street during August.

While many places will be closed, there will be plenty of stores open for anything you might need. The one exception is Berthillon which is probably the best ice cream in Paris and if there is one month when Berthillon should be open, it would be August.

MandyManda

Sarastro- I am planning on going straight to a municipal parking lot, not going to bother looking for spots that I know are impossible to find. I personally cannot imagine going up and down the subway stairs with a double stroller and 2 little ones holding my hand. I know parisians are helpful but I don't want to count on someone being there. Thank you for your input about the stores.

MandyManda

Is there a website that lets you know where to find all the parking lots in paris in a map?

I tried looking on google but couldn't find anything. thanks!

MaineGG

www.fr.mappy.com

Put in address, then choose 'parking' from the drop down menu below the address.

MandyManda

this is great!! thank you so much!