Bonjour! Are you ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Paris? We just spent an unforgettable month in the City of Light, and can't wait to share our favorite experiences with you. Here is everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable 5-day adventure in Paris. We've laid it out in detail for you. Explore the magical streets, iconic landmarks, and hidden treasures. From sunrise strolls along the Seine to sunset views from atop the Eiffel Tower, Paris is sure to steal your heart like it has ours.
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Paris
Morning: Touch down at Charles de Gaulle Airport and make your way to your accommodation. Consider using the RER B train for a quick and affordable journey into the city center. A taxi from CDG to Paris can be $60-70. If you choose a taxi, make sure you follow the taxi signs and refuse any solicitations inside the terminal. These are usually unlicensed and are actually illegal. Alternatively, opt for a private transfer for added convenience. After a long flight, we often splurge on a pre-booked private transfer. When you're jet lagged and tired, it's nice to have someone meet you in the terminal with your name on a sign so you just don't have to think about anything. They'll help with your luggage and lead you to their waiting car. We have used this private transfer. Great service with a low set price.
Afternoon: Most flights arrive in Paris in the morning hours. To help with jet lag, resist the urge to take a nap at your hotel. Trust me, this will only make it worse. (Read all of our best tips to combat jet lag here!) Instead, drop your bags at your hotel and get outside. Sunshine helps combat jet lag and will help you adjust to a new time zone. Start your Parisian adventure with a leisurely stroll along the Champs-Élysées. Marvel at the Arc de Triomphe and indulge in some people-watching and window shopping at the chic boutiques lining the avenue. When you need a pick-me-up, look for a cute cafe and grab a pain au chocolat, indulge in a hot chocolate at Angelina's, or some grab some macaroons at Laduree.
Evening: Kick off your first night in Paris off right and head to the Trocadéro Gardens for breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower illuminated against the night sky. Snap some envy-inducing photos and savor the magic of Paris at dusk. Stick around to see the twinkling lights on the Eiffel Tower that come on for 5 minutes at the top of every hour after sunset. Grab a dinner at any of the charming cafes that catch your eye.
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Delights
Morning: Rise and shine for a visit to the Louvre Museum, home to thousands of works of art spanning centuries of history. Beat the crowds by purchasing your tickets online in advance. Click here to book a timed entrance ticket to the Louvre. Consider booking this guided tour for a more in-depth experience. We love the Louvre so much, we went twice on our last trip to Paris. There is just so much to see. You could easily spend days at the Louvre and still not see everything. But it is possible to see some of the most important art in 2 hours or less. To help you make the most of your time in Paris, we put together our guide of the art you can not miss at the Louvre. You can read it here.
Afternoon: After lunch at a charming café, make your way to Notre-Dame Cathedral and admire the stunning Gothic architecture from below. Make your way to Saint-Chapelle and be mesmerized by the 800-year old stained glass. This is another place you'll be glad that you booked in advance. Be sure to explore the nearby Île Saint-Louis for quaint streets and artisanal shops. Get your timed entrance ticket to Saint Chapelle here.
Evening: Wind down with a sunset cruise along the Seine River. Marvel at the illuminated landmarks and bridges as you glide past iconic sights such as the Île de la Cité and the Musée d'Orsay. End the day with a delicious dinner at a traditional French brasserie. This Seine River Cruise is a great deal at only $22!
Day 3: Artistic Escapes and Culinary Delights
Morning: Dive into the world of Impressionism at the Musée d'Orsay, home to masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir. This is one of our favorite museums ever! The building used to be a train station and it just has so much charm, plus the art is amazing. Purchase skip-the-line tickets to maximize your time here. This one includes a digital audio guide. Consider joining this guided tour for expert insights into the museum's collection.
Afternoon: Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure in the vibrant Marais district. Sample delicious pastries at a local boulangerie and indulge in a traditional French lunch at a cozy bistro. Don't miss the chance to explore the trendy Le Marais neighborhood with its eclectic mix of shops and galleries.
Evening: Experience the magic of Montmartre as you wander through its winding streets and charming squares. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica for sweeping views of the city. Be sure to catch a performance at the legendary Moulin Rouge for a truly Parisian evening.
Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles
Morning: Catch an early train from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to skip the lines at the palace entrance. Consider joining a guided tour for a comprehensive exploration of the palace and gardens.
Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the opulent halls and manicured gardens of the Palace of Versailles. Marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the majestic gardens, and don't forget to visit the charming hamlet of Marie Antoinette. You'll be amazed by the grandeur of Versailles.
Evening: Return to Paris in the evening and unwind with a delicious dinner at a local brasserie. Reflect on your day of royal splendor as you savor classic French cuisine. Consider taking a leisurely stroll along the Seine River to admire the city's illuminated landmarks before calling it a night.
Day 5: Farewell and Fond Memories
Morning: Start your final day with a visit to the charming neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Explore its quaint streets, browse the eclectic boutiques, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a sidewalk café. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Shakespeare and Company bookstore for a literary adventure.
Afternoon: Head to the Musée de l'Orangerie to admire Claude Monet's stunning Water Lilies series. The layout of Monet's art here is so unique. If you are a fan of Money, you will love this museum. Take your time soaking in the serene beauty of these iconic paintings. Consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of Monet's artistic vision.
Evening: As the sun sets on your Parisian adventure, savor a farewell dinner at a traditional French brasserie. Raise a glass to the memories made and the adventures yet to come. Consider taking a twilight stroll along the Seine River to bid adieu to the City of Light in style.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Parisian Adventure:
Ticket Prices: Purchase skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions to save time and avoid long queues. Consider investing in a Paris Museum Pass for access to multiple attractions and discounts on transportation. Do a little math to make sure this makes sense for you.
Transportation: Take advantage of Paris' efficient public transportation system, including the metro, RER trains, and buses. To save Consider purchasing a Paris Visite travel pass for unlimited travel within the city. In our month in Paris, we calculated that we saved over $200 by using the travel pass.
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, especially if you plan to visit outdoor attractions or take day trips. Paris experiences four distinct seasons, with mild winters and warm summers. Sometimes it will feel like you go through four seasons in one day, so be prepared!
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Paris, with mild weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. We recommend visiting in May or September for comfortable temperatures, blooming gardens and somewhat smaller crowds.
Additional Resources: Download the Paris Metro app for real-time information on public transportation routes and schedules.
With this detailed itinerary in hand, you're ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in the City of Light. Bon voyage, mes amis, and may your Parisian dreams come true!
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