Paris has always been a dream destination for me, especially after watching Emily in Paris and reading The Nightingale (I enjoy historical fiction books). The charming streets, the Eiffel Tower, and the rich history made my trip unforgettable. My daughter and I also share a love for the book Madeline so we were on the hunt for scene spots from the book and movie. We may have also enjoyed madelines at a few bakeries.

Best of all, I was able to experience the magic of Paris without breaking the bank—thanks to points and miles. In this post, I’ll show you how to plan an affordable family trip to Paris, too!

1. Use Points to Book Affordable Flights to Paris

Booking flights to Paris with points and miles is one of the best ways to save on airfare. Here are some flight sweet spots for booking your family’s tickets:

• Air Canada Aeroplan
  • Sweet Spot: Aeroplan is a great program for Star Alliance partner awards. You can use your Aeroplan points to book flights with Air Canada or any of its Star Alliance partners, such as Lufthansa, Swiss Air, and Singapore Airlines.
  • How to Book: Book flights from the U.S. to Paris with Aeroplan points, typically starting at around 60,000 miles for a round-trip economy flight, depending on availability and the class of service.
• Air France/KLM (Flying Blue Program)
  • Sweet Spot: 25,000 miles (one-way) in economy
  • How to Book: Flying Blue offers monthly Promo Rewards that reduce mileage requirements. They also offer discounts for kids’ tickets and transfer bonuses, which can save you a ton of points! Booking with Air France or KLM gives you plenty of options and flexibility. Grab my free guide to KLM and Air France on points here.
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
  • Sweet Spot: 25,000 miles (one-way) in economy
  • How to Book: Virgin Atlantic allows you to book flights on Delta, Air France, or other partner airlines for a great deal. It’s a lesser-known option but can provide significant value for flights to Paris.
• American Airlines (AAdvantage Program)
  • Sweet Spot: 30,000 miles (one-way) in economy class
  • How to Book: Use AAdvantage miles to book flights with American Airlines or its Oneworld partners, such as British Airways and Iberia. You can often find low-mileage flights starting at 20,000 miles each way.

Grab my newest free guide on how to book cheap seats to Europe on KLM with Citi Thank You Points, Capital One Venture Miles, American Express Membership Rewards, or Chase Ultimate Rewards.

2. Where to Stay in Paris on a Family Budget Using Points

When traveling with kids, comfort and space are essential, and using points can help you enjoy a great stay without overspending. Here are some top hotels where you can redeem points to make your family trip more affordable:

• World of Hyatt
  • Hyatt offers some great options for families looking to use points in Paris. The Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme is one of the top luxury hotels, providing a luxurious and central stay in the heart of Paris. While on the higher end in terms of points, it’s a fantastic splurge for those looking to treat themselves to a more upscale experience.
  • The Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile offers a luxurious stay with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, making it a perfect base for your Paris adventure.
• Holiday Inn Paris Opera – Grands Blvd
  • This is an excellent family-friendly option that allows you to redeem IHG points for a comfortable stay at a reasonable rate.
• Airbnb for More Space and Savings
  If you prefer more room to spread out, consider booking an Airbnb in family-friendly neighborhoods like Le Marais or Montmartre. You can use points from credit cards like the Chase Ink Business Cards or Capital One Venture Miles to book through travel portals.

3. Family-Friendly Activities in Paris

Paris is full of activities that your kids will love. Here are some of the best things to do in the City of Light:

• Parks & Playgrounds
  • Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg): This beautiful park is perfect for families, with playgrounds, puppet shows, and a pond where you can rent toy boats. It’s an ideal spot to have a picnic or simply relax while your kids run around. We spent a morning here and it was by far oene of my most beloved vacation experiences.
  • Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A peaceful park with expansive lawns, a suspension bridge, and a picturesque lake.

• Museums & Activities
  • Musée d’Orsay: Located in a former railway station on the banks of the Seine, this museum is a great visit for families. It’s home to a fantastic collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, and its spacious, open galleries make it a pleasant place to explore with kids.

• Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: A large science museum with interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids.

• Iconic Landmarks
  • Eiffel Tower: A must-see when in Paris. For a unique experience, consider walking up to the second level for breathtaking views of the city. Don’t forget to grab some snacks from a local market and visit the nearby Champ de Mars park for a picnic!
  • Seine River Cruise: A boat tour on the Seine offers stunning views of Paris’s iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. It’s a must-do, providing a fresh perspective of the city and a chance to relax while still sightseeing. My family loves it because it lets us rest our feet without missing the action. Be sure to book in advance to secure your spot!

• Explore Montmartre
  • Montmartre, with its charming, artistic atmosphere, is a great place for families to explore. Visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, stroll through the lively streets, and take in the panoramic views of Paris.

• Paris Private Family Tour – City Highlights
  • For a tailored experience, consider booking a Private Family Tour that covers the city’s highlights. A guide will take you and your kids through iconic spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and other famous landmarks, providing engaging stories and fun facts along the way. It’s a fantastic way to immerse your family in the history and culture of Paris while keeping it entertaining for your kids.

• Bike Rentals
  • If your kids are a bit older, explore Paris by bike! It’s a fun way to tour the city. My daughter had just turned 7 when we last visited Paris, so I will for sure be adding a bike tour to our next trip.

4. The Best Parisian Bakeries for Families

Start your day with a delicious pastry at one of Paris’ iconic bakeries. Here are some family-friendly spots to grab breakfast or a snack:

• Boulangerie Poilâne: Famous for its sourdough and croissants, Poilâne is perfect for a quick breakfast or picnic.
• Maison Landemaine: Known for its croissants and tarts, this bakery is a great spot to start your day.
• Le Grenier à Pain: A hidden gem offering delicious pastries for your morning indulgence.

After indulging in all the incredible treats Parisian bakeries have to offer, why not learn how to make them yourself and enjoy them back home? Book the Paris French Bakery Behind the Scenes Experience to discover the secrets behind Paris’s famous pastries!

Staying Safe in Paris

Paris is a beautiful city, but like any major tourist destination, it’s important to stay vigilant. Here are a few quick safety tips:

• Keep your purse in front of you: Always wear a crossbody purse with the strap across your body to avoid pickpockets.
• Avoid street games: Don’t engage in the cup game or similar street scams; those playing are often working with others to distract and steal from you.
• Watch your belongings at cafés: Never leave your phone or wallet unattended on the table.
• Men, keep your wallet in a front zipped pocket: This reduces the risk of pickpocketing.
• Don’t sign petitions: Avoid anyone asking you to sign petitions—they’re often a setup for distraction or theft.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Especially in crowded areas like tourist spots, be mindful of your personal items at all times.

By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy the magic of Paris with peace of mind!

7. Thank you!

When planning your next trip, I’d appreciate it if you considered using my affiliate links to book activities like the Eiffel Tower Summit Tour or Versailles Palace Tour (I’ve got a blog post going over everything you need to know for a day trip to Versailles here). This doesn’t cost you anything extra, but it helps support Points and Miles Teachers and allows me to continue sharing tips for affordable travel.

If you’re thinking about opening a credit card to earn points for your travels, feel free to send me a DM on Instagram or check out my Best Offers page. Your support means a lot and helps me keep providing valuable travel resources at no cost to you.