This summer I spent the most time I’ve ever had in France. Through weeks of exploring cobblestone streets, ancient fortifications, and lakeside promenades, I’d say I’ve gained a deep appreciation for French culture and the country’s remarkable architectural heritage. Each old town we visited showcased a distinct regional style, yet all shared that unmistakable French charm.
While we covered significant ground, a few destinations truly captured our hearts—places so special that I’d gladly return even if it meant skipping somewhere entirely new.
Annecy: The Crown Jewel of Our French Adventure
Without question, Annecy claimed the top spot on our family travel list. This enchanting lakeside city delivers on every front: the crystalline lake surrounded by rolling hillsides evokes the Italian Lakes region, while the medieval old town boasts architecture that rivals any European destination.
Picture Chamonix’s mountain charm but with a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The city lives up to its nickname as “the Venice of France,” with canals weaving through the old quarter and endless opportunities for waterside strolls. For families, it’s paradise—abundant playgrounds dot the city, and the lake and river paths provide hours of scenic walking.
The culinary scene impressed us too, with numerous high-end restaurants throughout the city. Unfortunately, navigating fine dining with an energetic toddler proved challenging during this trip phase, but we’re already planning our return when restaurant adventures become more feasible.
Family-friendly highlights:
- Multiple well-designed playgrounds and parks
- Stunning lake and riverside walking paths
- Pedestrian-friendly old town perfect for stroller navigation
- Natural beauty that captivates all ages
Briançon: A Fortified Mountain Gem
This historic fortified town charmed us with its remarkably preserved old town and dramatic mountain setting. Two nights gave us ample time to explore the winding streets and impressive fortifications, though we left wishing for an extra day to hike up to the higher fort.
A 20-minute drive to nearby Montgenèvre proved worthwhile—the town features an excellent playground, and we enjoyed taking the chairlift for panoramic mountain views. Briançon strikes the perfect balance between historical significance and family accessibility.
Barcelonnette: Alpine Charm with a Unique Twist
This mountain town surprised us with its fascinating Mexican connection (thanks to 19th-century emigration patterns) and relaxed dining culture. We discovered what I’d call “casual fine dining”—high-quality cuisine in an atmosphere surprisingly welcoming to families with young children.
Arriving before the typical French dinner rush allowed us to enjoy a proper restaurant meal, a rare treat when traveling with a toddler. While the town definitely caters more to couples or families with older children, we managed well by adapting our expectations. I would recommend this city for those traveling without young children.
Note for families: The playground was unfortunately closed during our visit for a special event, but the public pool offered beautiful city views and provided a welcome respite from sightseeing.
Nice: Mediterranean Glamour Meets Family Fun
Our two-night stay in Nice showcased the city’s dual personality—sophisticated Mediterranean destination by day, family playground by evening. The French approach to playground design particularly impressed us here. Age-specific equipment naturally guides children through progressive skill levels, with younger kids unable to access advanced features without genuine climbing abilities.
My daughter’s favorite discovery? Ground-level trampolines integrated into the large central playground, along with multiple play structures arranged by difficulty level throughout the park.
The famous Nice beaches are undeniably beautiful, but families with young children should note the rocky shoreline and quickly deepening water—definitely better suited for confident adult swimmers.
The Verdict: Our French Favorites
After weeks of exploration, Annecy and Briançon emerged as our clear favorites, each offering the perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and family-friendly amenities that made our French adventure truly memorable.
Next up: Italy! Stay tuned to see where our family travels take us next.
Check out our travel page for more adventures and recommendations, or visit our blog for family travel tips and stories.
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