If you’re looking for a summer vacation destination that’s both beautiful and affordable, Southern France might be just the place for you! With its stunning coastal towns, rolling hills, and vibrant villages, Southern France offers something for everyone. And thanks to its location, it’s also one of the most affordable places in Europe to visit. So what are you waiting for? Read on for some tips on how to make the most of your trip!
1. Plan Your Trip in Advance
When traveling to Southern France with kids, it is essential to plan your trip. This will help ensure that you can see all the sights you want to see and do all the activities you and your family want to do.
It is also essential to research the different areas of Southern France before you go. This way, you will know what to expect and how to best experience all that the region has to offer. With a bit of planning, you can ensure that your trip to Southern France is a memorable one for all the right reasons.
2. Book Your Accommodation Well in Advance
If you’re planning a trip to Southern France with kids, it’s important to book your accommodation well in advance. The region is extremely popular with tourists, and hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
There are several great family-friendly hotels in Southern France, but they tend to be expensive. You can save money by booking a room at a holiday rental or bed and breakfast. Holiday rentals are often more spacious than hotel rooms, and they typically have kitchens and laundry facilities, which can be very handy when traveling with kids.
Bed and breakfasts are usually smaller and more intimate than hotels, offering a more personalized experience. Whichever type of accommodation you choose, booking early will give you the best chance of finding a room that meets your needs and budget.
3. Try To Schedule Some Down Time During Your Holiday
If you’re planning a trip to Southern France with kids, it’s important to book your accommodation well in advance. The region is extremely popular with tourists, and hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
There are several great family-friendly hotels in Southern France, but they tend to be expensive. You can save money by booking a room at a holiday rental or bed and breakfast. Holiday rentals are often more spacious than hotel rooms, and they typically have kitchens and laundry facilities, which can be very handy when traveling with kids. Bed and breakfasts are usually smaller and more intimate than hotels, offering a more personalized experience. Whichever type of accommodation you choose, booking early will give you the best chance of finding a room that meets your needs and budget.
4. Be Prepared for the Weather
One thing you can’t predict when traveling to Southern France is the weather. The best way to be prepared is to pack for both warm and cold weather. Be sure to pack light layers that can be easily added or removed as needed.
Sunscreen and hats are also essential for protecting everyone from the strong sun. However, don’t forget to pack a few sweaters or jackets in case the temperature drops in the evening. By being prepared for all types of weather, you can ensure that everyone has an enjoyable trip.
5. Pack Light for Easy Travel
Traveling with kids can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re planning a trip to Southern France, one of the best ways to make the journey easier is to pack light. Packing light means that you’ll have less to carry, and it will be easier to keep track of everyone’s belongings.
It also means that you’ll have more space in your accommodations, which can come in handy when you’re traveling with young children. When packing for your trip, focus on essential items like clothing, toiletries, and medications.
You can also bring along some favorite toys and books to help keep your kids entertained during the journey. By packing light, you can make travel simpler and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
6. Make Sure You Have All the Necessary Documents
When traveling to Southern France with kids, it is important to make sure that you have all of the necessary documents. First and foremost, you will need passports for each member of your family.
In addition, if you are driving, you will need to have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. If you are renting a car, you will also need to bring along a credit card to secure the vehicle.
Lastly, it is always a good idea to have an extra ID such as a birth certificate or passport card in an emergency. By taking the time to gather all of the required documents ahead of time, you can avoid potential problems and ensure that your trip goes smoothly.
7. Make Sure Your Kids Are up to Date on Their Vaccinations
When traveling to Southern France with kids, it is important to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. The CDC recommends that all children over the age of six months receive routine vaccines, including the MMR (mumps, measles, rubella) vaccine and varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.
In addition, it is also recommended that children receive a booster dose of the MMR vaccine if they are between the ages of four and six years old. If your child has not received these vaccines, or if you are unsure if they are up-to-date, please contact your healthcare provider before your trip.
Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your family safe and healthy while traveling abroad.
8. Bring Plenty of Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
When traveling to Southern France with kids, it is important to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent. The sun in Southern France is extreme, and even brief exposure can lead to sunburn.
Insect repellent is also a must, as France is home to a variety of harmful insects, such as mosquitoes and ticks. By packing these essential items, you can help ensure that your children have a safe and enjoyable trip.
9. Learn Some Basic French Phrases
Before traveling to Southern France with kids, it’s a good idea to learn some basic French phrases. The region is renowned for its picturesque villages, Mediterranean coastline, and stunning architecture.
While many locals speak English, it’s always polite to try using some of the local languages. Moreover, doing so will help you to connect with the culture and make your trip all the more memorable. These said, here are five essential French phrases to use when traveling to Southern France with kids:
Bonjour – Hello
Merci – Thank you
S’il vous plaît – Please
Excusez-moi – Excuse me
Où est la toilette? – Where is the bathroom?
With these key phrases in your arsenal, you’ll be sure to have a wonderful time exploring everything Southern France has to offer with your family.
10. Take a Walk Around the City To See the Sights
If you’re looking to explore a new city with your kids in tow, why not try taking a walk around the city to see the sights? It’s a great way to get some exercise while also getting an up-close look at some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
And since it’s free to do, it’s a great way to save money on your travel budget. Plus, it’s an opportunity to bond with your kids as you explore a new place together. When traveling to Southern France with kids, be sure to take a walk around the city to see the sights. You won’t be disappointed.
11. Take Day Trips to Nearby Villages and Towns
When traveling to Southern France with kids, be sure to take advantage of the many charming villages and towns that are within a short drive. The region is teeming with historical landmarks, ancient ruins, and picturesque landscapes.
While the larger cities of Marseille and Nice offer plenty of activities for families, spending a day in a smaller village can be a more authentic and relaxed experience. Many of the villages have kid-friendly attractions such as petting zoos, playgrounds, and museums.
And because they are less crowded than the city, kids will have more space to run around and explore. With so much to see and do, spending a day in one of Southern France’s villages or towns is an ideal way to make the most of your vacation.
12. Visit a Local Market for Fresh Produce and Souvenirs
Families traveling to Southern France often enjoy visiting local markets for fresh produce and souvenirs. The region is renowned for its abundant sunshine and mild climate, making it ideal for growing a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Local markets offer an opportunity to sample the region’s bounty, as well as to purchase souvenirs such as handmade pottery, soap, and olive oil. Many markets also feature live entertainment, making them a great place to spend an afternoon with the kids. When planning a trip to Southern France, be sure to include a visit to a local market on your itinerary.
13. Spend a Day at the Beach
Traveling to Southern France with kids can be a great experience for the whole family. One of the best ways to spend a day is by visiting the beach. The French Riviera has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The water is clear and blue, and the sand is soft and white. There are many activities that families can enjoy together, such as swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, so you can take a break from the sun and enjoy some delicious food.
With so much to see and do, a day at the beach is sure to be a memorable experience for everyone in the family.
14. Let Your Kids Explore While Keeping an Eye on Them at All Times
Although exploring is important for children, it is also important to keep an eye on them at all times when traveling to Southern France with kids. Many dangers can be found in unfamiliar environments, and it is crucial to make sure that kids are safe.
One way to do this is to create a schedule for the day that includes time for both exploring and supervision. This will ensure that kids have the opportunity to experience all that Southern France has to offer, while still being kept safe.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This means keeping an eye out for hazards such as busy streets or bodies of water. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your kids have a fun and safe trip to Southern France.
In conclusion
When traveling to Southern France with kids, be sure to take advantage of the many charming villages and towns that are within a short drive. With so much to see and do, spending a day in one of Southern France’s villages or towns is an ideal way to make the most of your family vacation.
If you’re looking for more information on planning a trip to France, be sure to check out Simply France. They have all the information you need to make your vacation a success, including tips on where to eat and what to see. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your trip today!
