Top 5 Activities for Families with Children on the French Riviera
The French Riviera, known for its glamorous resorts, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture, is not just a destination for adults. Rather, it offers a range of activities that make it an ideal holiday spot for families with children. From exploring enchanting marine life to thrilling amusement parks, here are the top five activities to do with children on the French Riviera.1. Marineland, AntibesMarineland in Antibes is one of the most popular attractions for families visiting the French Riviera. This large marine theme park offers an educational and entertaining experience for children of all ages. Kids can marvel at the captivating shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and orcas. The park also includes an aquarium where children can get up close with sharks, rays, and a variety of tropical fish.For a more interactive experience, families can visit the touch pool, where children can gently interact with starfish and other sea creatures. Marineland also offers educational workshops and behind-the-scenes tours, allowing kids to learn about marine conservation and the daily care of the park’s inhabitants. The adjoining aquasplash water park is perfect for cooling off on hot summer days, with a variety of slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones designed for younger children.2. Le Village des Fous, Villeneuve-LoubetLe Village des Fous, or “The Village of Fools,” in Villeneuve-Loubet is a whimsical amusement park that offers a unique blend of adventure, creativity, and fun. The park is designed to stimulate children’s imagination with its quirky and interactive attractions. Kids can navigate the giant maze, climb the towers of the "Folie Tower," or experience the thrill of the "Fous Sphère," a giant rolling ball ride.The park’s environment encourages exploration and physical activity, with various obstacle courses, water games, and inventive playgrounds. There are also creative workshops where children can engage in arts and crafts, making it a well-rounded experience that combines play and learning. Parents can relax in shaded areas while the kids immerse themselves in the park's many activities.3. Parc Phoenix, NiceParc Phoenix in Nice is a beautiful botanical garden and zoo that provides a perfect day out for families. The park boasts a vast array of exotic plants, themed gardens, and a large lake that serves as a habitat for numerous bird species. One of the main attractions is the tropical greenhouse, one of the largest in Europe, where children can discover a variety of tropical plants and animals, including reptiles and fish.The park also has a dedicated animal area, home to lemurs, wallabies, and otters, which are sure to fascinate young animal lovers. Interactive displays and educational exhibits throughout the park help children learn about biodiversity and conservation. Parc Phoenix is designed with families in mind, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and a café, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all ages.4. The Little Train of MonacoExploring Monaco with children is made easy and fun with the Little Train of Monaco. This charming tourist train offers a 30-minute guided tour of the principality’s most famous sights. The journey begins at the Oceanographic Museum and takes visitors through the old town, past the Prince's Palace, the cathedral, and the Casino of Monte Carlo.The train provides an informative and entertaining commentary in multiple languages, making it a great way for children to learn about Monaco’s history and landmarks. The ride is comfortable and provides spectacular views of the Mediterranean coast. After the train tour, families can explore the surrounding areas on foot, visit the nearby Princess Grace Rose Garden, or enjoy a meal at one of the child-friendly restaurants in Monaco.5. Aquasplash, AntibesAquasplash in Antibes is a water park that promises a day of excitement and fun for the entire family. The park features a wide variety of water attractions suitable for all ages, including thrilling slides like the Draguero and the Rainbow Cannon, as well as gentler options for younger children such as the Lazy River and the Kid’s Island.The park also includes a pirate-themed area, complete with water cannons, slides, and interactive play features that captivate the imagination of younger visitors. Safety is a top priority at Aquasplash, with lifeguards stationed throughout the park and designated shallow areas for small children. Parents can relax in sunbathing areas while the kids splash around, or join in the fun themselves. The park also offers dining options and picnic areas, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the water activities.Where to staySleeping 10/12 in 5/6 bedrooms, Haute Vue is the perfect central base for a family holiday in the South of France; close to the beautiful hilltop villages of Provence and in easy drive of the beaches and sights of the sparkling Cote d'Azur. Fully refurbished in 2023, the pet-friendly accommodation is laid out over two floors, with five double bedrooms and four bathrooms. A multi-use room adjacent to the master bedroom can serve as a nursery, games room (with PS5), office, or (with a sofa bed) a sixth bedroom. A huge through lounge/dining room and well-equipped Provencal kitchen opens out onto a terrace, private infinity pool, shaded veranda, and an amazing panoramic view over the valley. Features include modern air-conditioning, super-fast internet, and lots of games & things to do for the kids.The owners also run a Blog called "Little Pieces of Light", which features local events in Provence, sightseeing attractions, and ideas for day-trips on the French Riviera. Subject to continuing availability, please use the discount code ARLES20 to book directly at our website for any holiday (of at least a week) that straddles the dates of the festival.ConclusionThe French Riviera offers an abundance of family-friendly activities that cater to the interests and excitement of children. From the educational wonders of Marineland and the creative fun at Le Village des Fous to the natural beauty of Parc Phoenix, the cultural insights provided by the Little Train of Monaco, and the thrilling adventures at Aquasplash, there is something for every child to enjoy. Haute Vue is one of the best pet-friendly villas in Provence and a perfect base for your stay.