hey hey anita
how fun to be traveling to paris and amsterdam. it will be busy, crowded, and hot since it's summer time and high season, as things will change with the virus, more people may cancel and more openings for hotels. the travel industry is taking a big hit with all involved. where are you flying in from? what is budget in euros and exact dates?
did you already book paris? be very careful when booking BnB's, it's usually for two people, if you have 4 they will deny you and you have to scramble to find another more expensive last minute. all people in room is counted, you will need to pay a city tax per person/per night cash euros, outside of price of room. read the fine print/look at pictures closely. A/C, stairs/steps, lift/elevator, what floor to climb with kids and luggage, arrival/departure times so not waiting till checkin, early checkin available and luggage storage, cancellation policy (non refundable/free cancellation), security deposit hold on credit card, breakfast will probably cost, unless stated, buy something outside.
rooms in paris (europe) are small even bathrooms/showers, usually no tubs. check these couple places and if they suite your needs, it's late to be reserving but you'll find something
booking.com:
les patios du marais 1
135 suite franck, great 1 bedroom apt, center of paris
short stay group museum view serviced apts
hotel choiseul opera
maybe go to disneyland first then back to paris so it's easier to get to train station to amsterdam, unless the train leaves from disneyland.
cross-pollinate.com
houseboathotel.nl
houseboatrental.nl
thalys.com did you book your train paris to amsterdam? it's easy and about 3 hours ride. city center to city center, no waiting at airport.
lots to think about, don't want to be doris downer but the facts and when all is set and done with, trip will be much better. i would omit versailles, too long a day, crowded, girls will get grumpy. take them to luxembourg gardens, have a picnic, relax, sail boats in pond, playground and carousel.
tripsavvy.com/visitors guide to luxembourg gardens
paris-by-tuktuk.com or tuktukinparis.com take a tour around paris, see the sites, no tired feet for all of you.
curegourmande.fr is a cute small candy store, bisquit, cookie store on ile st louis island, near famous ice cream shop (berthillon). i really liked the fruit gels, flavored marshmallow strips, fruit filled cookie. pack in fancy boxes and sent home to family in hawaii
withlocals.com has kid friendly adventures, some kids free with parent
angelina's on rue rivoli. gorgeous restaurant known for yummy hot chocolate
montemarte and place de tertre is an artist haven, paintings for sale or have your picture painted, lots of people and one of my favorite places. sit at outside cafe and people watch.
you can only go so fast as the slowest one in your group. remember to sit back, enjoy, i'm in paris atmosphere have a great time.
aloha