Plan your Family Holidays to France with This Guide

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To: Calais

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Family Holidays To France

Planning a family holiday to France? Let us help you get started with our family holiday to France guide!

Finding the perfect balance between activities that cater to children of all ages, giving teens more independence, and ensuring there’s plenty of time to relax for parents and grandparents takes careful thought and planning - but we’re here to help make it easier.

By the end of this guide you will know all the benefits there are to travelling with P&O Ferries, so you can enjoy some of the best family holidays France has to offer. With no luggage restrictions, you can bring everything you need, and we’re also happy to welcome your furry friends along for the adventure too.

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Family Holidays in France: A Year-Round Destination

With many places to visit in France, it is always a popular family holiday destination. Often families swarm to the South of France's Mediterranean coast in the summer months for sun-kissed beach holidays and in the winter many families explore the Alps for a fun-fulfilled skiing holiday.

Searching for a budget-friendly choice? With great amenities and plenty of activities, family camping trips in France create memorable experiences while offering excellent value without compromise. As an alternative, luxury family holidays in France offer the ideal balance of relaxation and family-friendly activities, with resorts providing gourmet dining, spa services, and child care.

With the option to bring your car, P&O Ferries makes travel even more convenient by guaranteeing that there is room for every luggage item you wish to bring. The onboard entertainment also helps to keep children entertained during the trip.

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Family Holidays in France: Adventures for every generation

Top Holiday Destinations in France for Families

The perfect destination often depends on the type of holiday you’re after. Here are some great family holidays in France to consider:

Brittany:

Experience rugged coastlines, medieval towns, and crêpe stands your kids will love.

Loire Valley:

Known for its stunning châteaux and cycling-friendly landscapes. A great destination to sample local cuisine too!

Normandy:

Where you can dive into history and enjoy the region’s picturesque beaches and plenty of attractions.

Disneyland:

Perfect for family holidays to Paris, where you can combine cultural exploration with the magic of Disneyland and indulge in a trip filled with unforgettable moments.

Provence:

Relish in lavender fields and charming villages as you enjoy delicious food and stunning countryside vistas.

Le Touquet:

It's a coastal gem that is great for relaxing beach holidays in France for families.

Dordogne:

Filled with mesmerising views of its peaceful rivers and countryside. Ideal for family fishing holidays in France and exploring medieval history.

French Alps:

A fantastic choice for a family skiing adventure during the colder months, or hiking in the summer!

Nice and the French Riviera:

Families seeking sunshine and sophistication find it ideal!

Planning Your Family Holiday in France

When organising your family holiday to France, there are four key factors to keep in mind:

Where to go?

From ski slopes to sandy beaches and great tourist attractions, France offers something for the whole family. Use P&O Ferries for a smooth journey and a fun way to both start and finish your trip. Most destinations are within an easy drive from the port of Calais thanks to an extensive road network across the whole of France.

How to get there?

Travelling with a car on P&O Ferries allows ultimate flexibility and convenience. With frequent crossings from Dover to Calais, you can select a schedule that works for your family. Plus pack as little or as much as you like, there are no luggage restrictions when you travel with P&O Ferries!

What to do?

Whether you’re after beach days, cycling holidays, fishing trips, or historical explorations, you’ll find it all in France. We have plenty of guides to help you plan your family holiday to France.

Where to stay?

Choose from charming caravan parks for budget-friendly trips, to classic French style villas or luxurious resorts for an extra touch of comfort. France offers your a whole host of great accommodation choices to make your family holiday to France even more memorable!

After added flexibility? Consider a Flexi Ticket when booking your crossing from Dover to Calais. Our ferries to France have so much to do, the 90 minute crossing will sail by! From our Food Market to family lounges and coffee shops we've got everything you need for a comfortable journey. Plus, kids’ entertainment onboard ensures young travellers stay happily occupied during the journey - making sure there is never a dull moment on board.

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Book Your Ferry Today

By now, you’re probably eager to start creating unforgettable memories on your dream family holiday in France, whether it’s the excitement of Paris, cherished moments with loved ones in the Loire valley, or a trip thoughtfully planned with your little ones and furry friends in mind. We invite you to book your ferry crossing with P&O Ferries for a seamless, stress-free journey.

From onboard entertainment, to the convenience of traveling with your car, we’re committed to making your journey as enjoyable as your destination. So, book your Dover to Calais ferry today!

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Family Holidays in France FAQs

1 Is France a good destination for family holidays?

Yes. France is a popular choice for family holidays thanks to its mix of cities, beaches, countryside and family-friendly attractions. Families can enjoy cultural experiences, outdoor activities and relaxed coastal breaks within short travel distances.

2 What are the best places to visit in France with your family?

Popular family destinations include exploring Paris for museums and landmarks, visiting Le Touquet for a relaxed seaside break, and coastal or countryside regions for outdoor activities. Many families also enjoy a family day trip to Calais, which is ideal for a short and flexible outing.

3 Are family holidays in France suitable for short breaks?

Yes. France works well for both short breaks and longer holidays. Families can focus on one destination, such as Paris or the coast, or plan a flexible itinerary that includes multiple stops over a few days.

4 Is France suitable for travelling with children of different ages?

France is suitable for families with children of all ages. Younger children can enjoy parks, beaches and interactive attractions, while older children and teenagers often enjoy cultural landmarks, cycling routes and city exploration.

5 What should families plan before travelling to France?

Before travelling, families should plan accommodation, identify key attractions and allow time for travel between destinations. Packing essentials, planning rest breaks and keeping itineraries flexible can help ensure a relaxed and enjoyable family holiday.

6 Can families travel easily around France by car?

Yes. France has an extensive road network, making it easy for families to travel between cities, coastal towns and rural areas. Travelling with P&O Ferries by car allows families to explore at their own pace and adjust plans around children’s needs.