Paris Museums and Monuments  There is a rich variety of museums and monuments for the culture vultures!  Of course such attractions aren't always suited to children.  Some of these recommendations make a special effort to cater for the family, others are places we think you cannot afford to miss (and a brief visit will make it more palatable!).

Notre Dame

Location: On the Île de la Cité, an island in the River Seine.
General Info: Open daily from 8.00-18.45 (19.15 on Sat/Sun) although access may be limited during services (for details see website).
Description: The tower visit is managed by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux and the entrance for a visit is outside the cathedral in rue du cloître Notre-Dame, costs are €7.50 for adults and free up to 17 years old.  This cathedral was completed in 1345 after nearly 200 years work!. The south tower houses the great bell of Notre-Dame, the bells are still rung several times daily.  Outstanding architecture outside, lots of shrines and candles inside.
Our recommendations: Climb the 387steps up the tower for an outstanding view of the heart of Paris.
For the children: One of those places the children will enjoy for twenty minutes or so, don’t hang around!

Within easy reach of Paris are the splendid châteaux of Versailles and Fontainbleau, as well as Monet's home town of Giverny.
HOT TIP: Many museums are free on the first Sunday in each month!