English
A Complete Guide to Traveling to Paris with Grandparents
Paris is actually one of the greatest cities in the world for elderly travelers. Despite being a bustling, somewhat fast paced metropolitan, the French capital has more than enough space for grandparents to meander with grandchildren, and who may need to take things a little slower.
Keep the following in mind if this is a trip you are planning to do in the foreseeable future:
Remember There Are Discounts for Seniors in Paris
This is something that all individuals over the age of 60 need to know before coming to Paris. Many of the city’s tourist attractions offer discounted rates for seniors and/or retirees; this means you can get them discounted rates just about everywhere.
by Sheggeor laker – Unsplash
10 Most Common Mistakes Tourists Make When They Visit Paris
Look out for ticket specials and sometimes even elderly access points where one is able to avoid long queues or crowds. These establishments are usually also wheelchair friendly or accessible to movement impaired individuals (crutches, walkers, etc)
Make Sure Elevators Are Included in Your Chosen Accommodation
Paris’ infrastructure is incredibly old, and a lot of buildings only have stairs to get from bottom to top, and back again. When browsing hotels, Airbnb’s or apartments it is imperative to filter out options that do not offer an elevator on the premises.
by Thibault Penin – Unsplash
10 Reasons You Must Visit Paris Alone
Even young, fit people in their 20s struggle getting their suitcases just one floor up the narrow Parisian stairwells. An elevator is essential for any traveler who wouldn’t be physically capable of carrying heavy luggage up multiple flights.
And Don’t Forget a Shower-Bath
Keeping to the minute infrastructural style, a lot of Parisian accommodation also offers shower-bath combo situations due to lack of space. It is widely known that these are not safe for elderly folk to climb into or out of unattended, and there is almost never railings to hold onto due to the old fashioned interiors.
When traveling with elderly grandparents, you’ll want to book something with a shower only. If this is unclear at the time of booking, contact the property directly and inquire to be sure!
Senior Companion Services Are Available
Most tourist-centered cities have what are known as senior companion services for travelers. Basically, these companies will act as chaperone/tour guides for elderly individuals who aren’t confident in their own ability to move around in a stress-free manner.
by Matthew Henry – Unsplash
The Best Way to Visit Paris with Toddlers
While I’m sure you’re happy to be on the lookout for your grandparents at all times, it can make a world of a difference to have a companion with you (especially if your grandparents are more senior). These chaperones usually involve local individuals who will spend most of your days with you, arranging excursions and even meals so that you don’t have to worry. They are usually also learned individuals who know a lot about the history of the city, so you really get the full experience.
Make the Metro a No-Go
In general, traveling by metro is not recommended for senior citizens due to the unpredictable nature of each ride. Some journeys are smooth, while others are rocky and dangerous. As an avid traveler, I’ve been thrust into the wall or floor of a metro car one too many times to ever give this mode of transport the seal of approval for an older person.
Paris Metro – by Anastasia Zhenina – Unsplash
Even if you’re confident in your ability to hold onto them and provided support, there is always the risk of a car being too full and there being no railing left, or of other riders falling onto you in transit. Avoid!
Street Cafes Mean Break Time
Paris is compact and manageable on foot, even for older folk. But it is a tiring city to explore as it tends to involve a lot of walking if you want to get the full experience. You’ll want to pencil in a lot of break times as you go about your days exploring Paris with your grandparents, and the local street cafes are perfect for that.
By Yannis Papanastasopoulos – Unsplash
Always remember that in Paris, street cafes don’t care if you order just a bottle of water, or a full three course meal. They are (generally) welcoming to all and don’t mind people (especially the elderly) taking up tables throughout the day for the sole purpose of resting.
Always Book In Advance
This is a top travel tip that I give to any individual visiting Paris with their grandparents. There is no need, I repeat NO NEED, to ever stand in line for tickets to attractions and monuments such as The Eiffel Tower, Scare Coeur, or any museum.
All Parisian attractions and monuments offer online booking platforms where you can book your ticket and entry slot in advance. This means you skip the length ticket queue on the day, and will be ushered toward a (usually) much shorter line where entry is more smooth sailing.
