A winding street in Montmartre, Paris, featuring a stone wall on the right and the iconic pink house covered in ivy on the left.
Paris. The name itself conjures up images of romance, history, and breathtaking beauty. As a seasoned travel content creator for travels.edu.vn, I can tell you that Paris is more than just a city; it’s an experience. It’s a place that gets under your skin and stays with you long after you’ve left. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited – I even lived there for a while – and yet, each trip reveals new layers and hidden corners waiting to be explored. Planning a trip to Paris can feel overwhelming. Just when you think you’ve ticked off all the major sights, you stumble upon a charming new café, a hidden market, or another must-see attraction, not forgetting the allure of Disneyland Paris for those seeking a touch of magic. This city is a treasure trove, and that’s a big part of why I adore it.
Many visitors try to squeeze Paris into a quick three-day trip, hitting the main landmarks, snapping photos, and moving on. While any time in Paris is valuable, to truly appreciate the City of Lights, you need more than a fleeting visit. In my expert opinion, a minimum of five days is essential to even scratch the surface of what Paris has to offer. There’s simply too much to see, do, and experience.
To help you craft the perfect Parisian adventure, I’ve put together a detailed Paris Travel Itinerary for a five-day trip. This itinerary is designed to maximize your time and ensure you experience the best of Paris, from iconic landmarks to local favorites. And if you decide to extend your stay, I’ve also included extra suggestions to make your Parisian journey even more unforgettable!
Paris Itinerary Highlights
Day 1: Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Latin Quarter, & More
Day 2: Louvre Museum, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, & More
Day 3: Palace of Versailles, Père Lachaise Cemetery, & More
Day 4: Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Holocaust Museum, & More
Day 5: Paris Catacombs, Rue Mouffetard, Musée de Cluny, & More
Where to Eat: My Favorite Parisian Restaurants
Day 1: Exploring Iconic Landmarks and Historic Districts
Your first day in Paris should be dedicated to getting acquainted with the city’s layout and soaking in its atmosphere. There’s no better way to do this than by walking. Paris is a city made for strolling, with stunning sights around every corner. Spend the day wandering through its charming cobblestone streets, picturesque parks, and diverse neighborhoods. To get your bearings, consider starting with a free walking tour. New Europe Tours offers excellent introductory tours covering major highlights – remember to tip your guide! For a more in-depth experience, Take Walks provides a range of informative and engaging walking tours, including food tours and museum tours, catering to various interests.
However, if you’d prefer a self-guided orientation, here’s my recommended walking route for your first day in Paris:
Begin at the Champs-Élysées and ascend the Arc de Triomphe. Often overlooked, climbing the Arc de Triomphe offers unparalleled panoramic views of Paris, making it the perfect starting point for your day. From the top, you can admire the city stretching out before you, a fantastic way to orient yourself. After taking in the views, stroll down the famous Champs-Élysées, the grand avenue synonymous with Parisian elegance, towards Place de la Concorde. Here, you’ll encounter the Luxor Obelisk, a striking 3,000-year-old Egyptian monument gifted to France. This historic square was also the site of public executions during the French Revolution, a poignant reminder of Paris’s rich and sometimes turbulent past.
Continue your walk through the Jardin des Tuileries, a beautifully landscaped garden that was once the grounds of a royal palace. Admire the formal French garden design as you approach the iconic Louvre Museum from the outside. While you’ll dedicate a full day to the Louvre later in your itinerary, seeing its impressive façade from the Tuileries offers a sense of its grandeur. Next, wander down Rue Rivoli and cross over to Île de la Cité, the historical heart of Paris and the original site of the Roman settlement of Lutetia.
On Île de la Cité, take in the beauty of Pont Neuf, Paris’s oldest standing bridge, and admire the equestrian statue of King Henry IV. Make your way to Sainte Chapelle, a jewel of Gothic architecture and my personal favorite church in Paris. Its breathtaking 13th-century stained glass windows are truly awe-inspiring. To avoid potentially long queues, especially during peak season, consider booking your tickets in advance.
After Sainte Chapelle, delve into the underground Roman ruins located nearby, offering a glimpse into Paris’s ancient past. Then, pay your respects to Notre Dame Cathedral. Although still under reconstruction following the 2019 fire, the cathedral remains a magnificent sight and a symbol of Parisian resilience. You can still admire its exterior architecture and reflect on its historical significance.
Next, venture south towards the Latin Quarter. While known for its lively, tourist-friendly main streets, wander off the beaten path to discover a charming labyrinth of narrow alleys, quaint squares, and authentic café-lined streets, far from the usual tourist crowds.
In the Latin Quarter, visit the Panthéon, a neoclassical monument honoring distinguished French citizens. From there, head west to the Jardin du Luxembourg, a stunning formal garden offering a tranquil escape. Relax by the Medici Fountain, people-watch, and soak in the Parisian atmosphere. This garden is a true oasis in the city.
Finally, make your way north to Saint-Sulpice Church. Fans of The Da Vinci Code might recognize it, but even without the literary connection, its imposing architecture and serene atmosphere are captivating.
By late afternoon, find a traditional Parisian café, order a glass of French wine, and unwind, embracing the Parisian way of life. This leisurely pace and appreciation for simple pleasures are key to truly experiencing Paris.
Day 2: Immersing Yourself in Art and Culture
Day two of your Paris travel itinerary is dedicated to the city’s world-renowned art scene. Paris is home to some of the most incredible museums in the world, and today you’ll explore three of the most iconic: the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée de l’Orangerie.
The Louvre Museum. Prepare to be amazed. Home to an astounding collection of over a million artworks, the Louvre is a museum where you could easily spend weeks and still not see everything. While it houses art from various periods and cultures, if medieval art isn’t your primary interest, focus on the museum’s exceptional collection of masterpieces from other eras, including Renaissance, Neoclassical, and Romantic periods. Of course, no visit to the Louvre is complete without seeing the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. I recommend dedicating at least five hours to the Louvre to see the highlights and appreciate the former royal palace itself. Art enthusiasts could easily spend an entire day, or even multiple days, exploring its vast collections.
To make the most of your time and avoid long queues, especially now with timed entry, definitely book skip-the-line tickets in advance. Consider joining a guided tour of the Louvre to delve deeper into the art and history. A knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your experience and help you navigate this enormous museum effectively.
Musée du Louvre, 1st arrondissement, +33 1 40 20 53 17, louvre.fr. Open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and weekends from 9am–6pm, and Fridays from 9am–9:45pm. Closed Tuesdays. Admission is 17 EUR. Free admission for all visitors on the first Sunday of each month from October to March and on Bastille Day (July 14th). Free for EU residents under 26. Enter via the Carrousel du Louvre entrance to potentially avoid longer lines at the main entrance.
Musée d’Orsay. Located a short distance from the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay is housed in a stunning former railway station and boasts the world’s largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. For me, this is Paris’s best museum. With over three million annual visitors, it’s home to masterpieces by Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, and many other iconic artists. I could spend hours here, lost in the beauty of Impressionism.
Musée d’Orsay, 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 7th arrondissement, +33 1 40 49 48 14, musee-orsay.fr. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday-Sunday from 9:30am–6pm and Thursdays from 9:30am–9:45pm. Closed Mondays. Admission is 17 EUR (9 EUR after 4:30pm every day except Thursday). Free on the first Sunday of the month. Book tickets online in advance to skip the line.
Musée de l’Orangerie. Complete your art-filled day with a visit to the Musée de l’Orangerie, dedicated to Monet’s Water Lilies (Nymphéas). The museum showcases eight monumental panels of these iconic paintings, displayed in two oval rooms designed specifically by Monet himself. These serene and immersive paintings, created in the later years of Monet’s life, represent different times of day and seasons. The museum also features other works on the lower floor, but the Water Lilies are the main draw and a truly unforgettable experience.
Musée de l’Orangerie, Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, 1st arrondissement, +33 1 44 50 43 00, musee-orangerie.fr. Open Wednesday-Monday from 9am–6pm; last entry at 5:15pm. Closed Tuesdays. Admission is 12.50 EUR and free on the first Sunday of the month.
Budget Travel Tip: Consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass. This pass provides access to over 50 museums and attractions in Paris, including all three museums mentioned today, plus many others featured in this itinerary. It can save you significant money if you plan to visit multiple attractions, and it also allows you to skip the ticket lines at many locations. A two-day pass costs 55 EUR, a four-day pass 70 EUR, and a six-day pass 85 EUR.
Important Note: Some may say that visiting all three museums in one day is too ambitious, and it’s true that each museum could easily warrant a full day on its own. However, if you are short on time or eager to see as much as possible, focusing on the highlights of each museum is achievable in a long day. Alternatively, you can choose to spend more time in your preferred museum and adjust the itinerary to suit your pace. This itinerary is a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your interests and time.
Day 3: Royal Grandeur and Historic Cemeteries
On day three of your Paris travel itinerary, you’ll journey beyond the city center to experience the opulent Palace of Versailles and reflect on history at the Père Lachaise Cemetery.
The Palace of Versailles. Located just outside Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a symbol of French royal extravagance and a must-see destination. Originally a hunting lodge, it became the principal residence of the Kings of France until the French Revolution. This UNESCO World Heritage site attracts over 10 million visitors annually.
A visit to Versailles is a full-day excursion. Explore the magnificent château, wander through the vast and stunning gardens, and immerse yourself in the lavish lifestyle of the French monarchy. Don’t miss the Estate of Trianon, including Marie Antoinette’s estate and its charming faux peasant village, created for scenic pleasure and fresh produce for the Queen.
Versailles is enormous, so allow ample time to explore. Most visitors tour the Palace first, then the gardens, and finally Marie Antoinette’s Estate. To potentially avoid crowds, consider reversing this order. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. For a more enriching experience, join a guided tour of Versailles. This will not only grant you skip-the-line access but also provide invaluable historical context and insights from a local expert.
Palace of Versailles, Place d’Armes, Versailles, +33 1 30 83 78 00, en.chateauversailles.fr. Open Tuesday–Sunday 9am–5:30pm (last entry at 5pm). Closed Mondays. “The Passport” ticket, granting access to all areas, including gardens and Trianon Estate, costs 28.50 EUR (21.50 EUR in low season).
Père Lachaise Cemetery. In the afternoon, return to Paris and take a train to Père Lachaise Cemetery, Paris’s most famous and arguably most visited cemetery in the world. Here, you’ll find the final resting places of numerous renowned figures, including Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf, and Frédéric Chopin, among many others.
Established in 1804 and named after Père François de la Chaise, confessor to Louis XIV, the cemetery was initially considered too far from the city. To attract burials, administrators relocated the remains of celebrated French artists Molière and Jean de La Fontaine to Père Lachaise. The strategy worked, and today it’s an iconic and historically significant landmark. Be mindful of the closing time at 5:30 pm.
Consider taking a guided tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery to fully appreciate its history and discover the stories behind the notable figures buried here. Without a guide, navigating the vast cemetery and understanding its historical significance can be challenging.
Day 4: Iconic Views, Military History and Reflection
Day four of your Paris travel itinerary offers a blend of iconic Parisian landmarks, military history, and moments of reflection.
Eiffel Tower. Begin your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, Paris’s most recognizable symbol. Constructed for the 1889 World’s Fair, it was initially met with criticism but quickly became a beloved icon. Today, it’s a symbol of Paris and one of the most famous structures globally, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its 324-meter (1,062 feet) height. To avoid long queues, arrive early in the morning. The lines can become extremely long later in the day.
After your visit to the tower, enjoy a relaxing picnic on the Champ de Mars, the park stretching out at its base. Soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the sunshine, and admire the iconic structure from below. This is a quintessential Parisian experience.
Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, 7th arrondissement, +33 8 92 70 12 39, toureiffel.paris. Open daily (9am–midnight) in summer, with slightly shorter hours during the rest of the year. Admission ranges from 18.10-28.30 EUR depending on the level you choose to visit. Direct access elevator tickets to the top are also available for around 35 EUR.
Wander Rue Cler. Located near the Eiffel Tower, Rue Cler is a vibrant market street brimming with Parisian culinary delights. Explore cheese shops, butchers, bakeries, fruit stands, and chocolate shops. This street is a food lover’s paradise. I always find myself indulging in delicious treats and stocking up on picnic supplies here.
Paris Sewer Museum. For a unique and offbeat experience, visit the Paris Sewer Museum, not far from the Eiffel Tower. While it might sound unusual, this museum provides a fascinating insight into the history of Paris’s sewer system and its crucial role in the city’s development.
Don’t be deterred by the idea of a sewer tour – it’s surprisingly odor-free and incredibly informative. You’ll learn how the development of a modern sewer system transformed Paris, enabling it to overcome disease, improve sanitation, and become the thriving metropolis it is today.
Paris Sewer Museum, Pont de l’Alma, Left Bank, opposite 93 Quai d’Orsay, 7th arrondissement, +33 1 53 68 27 81, musee-egouts.paris.fr/en/. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am–5pm. Admission is 9 EUR.
Les Invalides (The Tomb of Napoleon). Next, visit Les Invalides, a vast complex originally built in 1670 by Louis XIV as a hospital for wounded soldiers. Today, it houses several museums and monuments, including the Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum) and the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. The Musée de l’Armée is an incredibly comprehensive museum of French military history, requiring at least three hours to explore thoroughly.
Even if military history isn’t your primary interest, this museum offers a captivating journey through French history, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic era. Its depth and breadth are truly impressive.
Les Invalides, Place des Invalides, Musée de l’Armée, 129 Rue de Grenelle, 7th arrondissement, +33 810 11 33 99. Open daily from April to October (10am–6pm; Tuesdays until 9pm), and 10am–5pm from November to March. Admission is 14 EUR.
The Museum of the Shoah (The Holocaust Museum). Conclude your day with a visit to the Museum of the Shoah (Holocaust Museum). Despite its poignant and important exhibits on France, anti-Semitism, and the Holocaust, this museum is often less crowded than other major Parisian attractions. This is a significant museum, providing a powerful and detailed account of the Holocaust, with a particular focus on the French context. Having visited numerous Holocaust museums worldwide, I consider this one of the most impactful and informative.
Museum of the Shoah, 17 Rue Geoffroy l’Asnier, 4th arrondissement, +33 1 42 77 44 72, memorialdelashoah.org. Open Sunday–Friday 10am–6pm and Thursdays from 10am–10pm. Closed Saturdays. Admission is free. Free guided tours in English are offered at 3pm on the second Sunday of each month.
Day 5: Underground Paris, Medieval Art, and Artistic Vibes
On the final day of your Paris travel itinerary, delve into the depths of the Paris Catacombs, explore the charming Rue Mouffetard, discover medieval art at the Musée de Cluny, and soak in the artistic atmosphere of Montmartre.
Paris Catacombs. Begin your day with a descent into the Paris Catacombs, an eerie yet fascinating underground ossuary. These tunnels, originally ancient stone quarries, stretch for miles beneath the city (their exact extent remains unknown) and house the remains of millions of Parisians. Only a small section is open to the public, but it provides a unique and macabre glimpse into Paris’s history and urban development. The Catacombs are a popular attraction, and queues can be very long. Book skip-the-line tickets online in advance to save valuable time.
Paris Catacombs, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 14th arrondissement, +33 1 43 22 47 63, catacombes.paris.fr. Open Tuesday–Sunday 9:45am–8:30pm (last admission at 7:30pm). Closed Mondays. Check the website before visiting as closures can occur unexpectedly. Admission is 18 EUR for same-day tickets, 29 EUR for advanced tickets including an audio guide.
Rue Mouffetard. After emerging from the depths of the Catacombs, head to the lively Rue Mouffetard, a pedestrian street in the Latin Quarter. This charming street is lined with cafes, shops, and an outdoor market, offering a vibrant slice of Parisian life. Wander along the street, soak in the atmosphere, and perhaps stop for a coffee or lunch at one of the many cafes. Don’t miss the nearby Place de la Contrescarpe, a picturesque square adding to the area’s charm. Rue Mouffetard and its surroundings are excellent for finding affordable and delicious restaurants.
Musée de Cluny. Next, visit the Musée de Cluny, officially known as the National Museum of the Middle Ages. Housed in a stunning 15th-century building, formerly the residence of the Abbots of Cluny, it’s considered the finest surviving example of medieval architecture in Paris. The museum showcases Roman and medieval art, including architectural fragments unearthed during excavations in the city.
The Musée de Cluny also incorporates the remains of Roman baths, upon which the abbey was built. It’s a captivating museum for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Musée de Cluny, 6 Place Paul Painlevé, 5th arrondissement, +33 1 53 73 78 16, musee-moyenage.fr. Open Tuesday to Sunday 9:30am–6:15pm. Closed Mondays. Admission is 12 EUR and free on the first Sunday of each month.
Bibliothèque Nationale de France. For a glimpse into literary grandeur, visit the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (National Library of France), one of the world’s most significant libraries. Founded in 1368 by Charles V, it houses an immense collection of over 40 million items. Take a quick visit to admire the impressive architecture, including the art library rotunda and the remarkable 20-foot globes in the permanent collection.
Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Quai François Mauriac, 13th arrondissement, +33 1 53 79 59 59, bnf.fr. Open Monday (2pm-8pm), Tuesday-Saturday (9am-8pm), and Sundays (1pm-7pm). Admission is free.
Montmartre. Conclude your 5-day Paris travel itinerary in Montmartre, the historic artistic district of Paris. Once home to artists and writers like Hemingway, Montmartre retains its artistic soul. Explore its charming streets, discover art galleries, and perhaps have your portrait sketched by a street artist in Place du Tertre. Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop Montmartre hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, especially stunning at sunset. Montmartre is also a fantastic area for a food tour.
In the evening, the steps leading up to Sacré-Cœur become a lively gathering spot, with people enjoying the sunset, chatting, and often live music from street performers. It’s a perfect place to soak in the Parisian atmosphere on your final evening.
Where to Eat in Paris
Paris is a culinary capital, and your Paris travel itinerary wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its diverse food scene. I’ve explored countless restaurants and cafes in Paris, and here are a few recommendations to get you started:
- Café Père & Fils: A classic Parisian brasserie and café with outdoor seating, perfect for lunch or drinks.
- Florence Kahn: A charming little shop with delicious sandwiches – their pastrami is highly recommended.
- ISTR: A trendy spot, often busy for dinner, but with a fantastic happy hour offering affordable wine and oysters.
- King Falafel Place: Known for some of the best falafel in Paris, be prepared for a queue, but it moves quickly.
- La Crêperie des Artes: A tiny takeaway crêperie serving incredibly delicious and generously portioned crêpes at budget-friendly prices – my top crêperie in Paris.
- Le Dit Vin: Reasonably priced with a great wine selection and a daily changing menu based on fresh, seasonal ingredients – one of my personal favorites.
- Pizzeria Popolare: Serving some of the best pizza in Paris. Arrive early to avoid the long lines.
- Juveniles: A cozy bistro near the Louvre with a rotating menu and excellent wines.
- Robert et Louise: A traditional restaurant specializing in grilled meats and roasts cooked over an open fire, offering hearty meals and a great wine list.
For even more dining and drinking recommendations in Paris, consider checking out my detailed Paris city guide!
Even with five days, this Paris travel itinerary only scratches the surface of this incredible city. Paris is a city best explored slowly, allowing time to wander, discover hidden gems, and embrace the unexpected. Take time to relax in its gardens and parks, enjoy long lunches, listen to street musicians, stroll along the Seine, and savor a bottle of wine. Embrace the Parisian lifestyle.
Use this itinerary as a starting point and allow your Parisian adventure to unfold organically. I’m confident Paris will captivate you and leave you wanting to return again and again.
Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Paris!
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Book Your Trip to Paris: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight: Use Skyscanner to find affordable flights.
Book Your Accommodation: Hostelworld for hostels and Booking.com for hotels are recommended for the best deals. See my list of favorite hostels in Paris and favorite hotels. For neighborhood advice, check out my Paris neighborhood guide.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance: Protect yourself with travel insurance for unexpected events.
Looking for More Travel Resources?: Visit my resource page for money-saving travel companies.
Need a Guide?: Take Walks offers excellent guided tours in Paris.
Want More Information on Paris?: Visit my Paris destination guide for further planning tips.
