Paris Layover With Kids — A Survival Guide

Paris guide: kid-friendly stops near the airport. Real, specific, no fluff.

Exploring Paris with Kids: A Guide to Convenient Airport Stops

Paris Beauvais Airport: Arrival and First Impressions

Arriving at Paris Beauvais Airport, you'll find that it's a relatively small and straightforward airport to navigate. The airport is located about 85 kilometers north of central Paris, and you can expect a 1-2 hour drive to the city center depending on traffic.

Once you arrive, you can grab a quick bite at the airport's food court or grab a snack from one of the many shops and cafes. If you're traveling with kids, you'll appreciate the airport's family-friendly facilities, which include baby-changing rooms and a play area.

Kid-Friendly Spots Near the Airport

The Eawy Castle and its Surroundings

About 10 kilometers from the airport, you'll find the Eawy Castle, a medieval fortress that's steeped in history and offers a fun and educational experience for kids. The castle grounds also include a playground, a picnic area, and a small lake.

After exploring the castle, you can head to the nearby village of Eawy, which has several kid-friendly restaurants and cafes. You can grab a meal at Le Relais des Châteaux, a cozy restaurant that serves classic French cuisine.

The Beauvais Forest

A short drive from the airport, the Beauvais Forest offers a peaceful and natural escape for families. You can take a leisurely walk through the forest, have a picnic, or go on a bike ride. The forest is also home to several playgrounds and a small lake.

For a snack or meal, head to the nearby village of Beauvais, which has several cafes and restaurants. You can stop by the Café de la Gare, a charming cafe that serves coffee, sandwiches, and pastries.

Indoor Options for Rainy Days

The Beauvais Museum

On a rainy day, head to the Beauvais Museum, which is located in the heart of the city. The museum features a collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of Beauvais' rich history. The museum also has a family-friendly section that's designed for kids.

The museum's cafe serves a range of snacks and meals, including sandwiches, salads, and pastries. You can also grab a coffee or hot chocolate to keep you and the kids energized.

The Eawy Indoor Play Area

About 10 kilometers from the airport, you'll find the Eawy Indoor Play Area, a large indoor play center that's designed for kids. The play area features a range of play structures, including climbing walls, slides, and ball pits. There's also a cafe on site that serves snacks and meals.

The play area is open daily from 10am to 6pm, and admission is free for kids under 3 years old. For kids aged 3-12, admission costs around €5-€7 per child.

Napping on the Go

The Beauvais Forest Picnic Area

When your kids need a nap, head to the Beauvais Forest Picnic Area, a peaceful spot that's surrounded by trees and offers plenty of shade. You can set up a picnic blanket and let the kids snooze while you relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The picnic area is also equipped with baby-changing facilities and a small playground, making it a convenient spot for families.

The Eawy Castle Grounds

Alternatively, you can head to the Eawy Castle Grounds, which offers a peaceful and scenic spot for a nap. The grounds are surrounded by trees and offer plenty of shade, making it an ideal spot for a family nap.

You can also grab a snack or meal at the castle's cafe, which serves a range of meals and snacks.

Getting Around

Transportation Options from the Airport

To get to the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car. The airport is also accessible by train, with regular services to Paris and other nearby cities.

Once you arrive in the city, you can use public transportation to get around. The city has a comprehensive network of buses and trains that make it easy to get to the city's main attractions.

Final Tips and Recommendations

When traveling with kids, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and research your destinations. With this guide, you'll have a better idea of what to expect and can plan your trip accordingly.

Don't forget to pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the kids, and consider renting a stroller or baby carrier to make getting around easier.

Finally, be sure to check the opening hours and admission fees for any attractions you plan to visit, and consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass to save time and money.

And when it's time to exchange your currency, consider using the Portability App for a hassle-free experience.