Travel Guides

Paris itinerary: A comprehensive guide for travelers

With over 44 million visitors last year, Paris holds the title as the world’s most popular city—but most visitors never step beyond the obvious sights.. Discover the hidden treasures that make Paris unforgettable.

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Written by Vukasin Petrovic

Updated: Mar 26, 2025
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Paris captivated 44 million travelers last year—and for good reason. Beyond its legendary icons like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre lies a city of hidden courtyards and villages-within-a-city waiting to be explored. 

Whether you’re drawn to royal palaces, cobblestone charm, or buttery croissants eaten by the Seine, Paris delivers iconic experiences and authentic moments you won’t find anywhere else.

Day 1: Iconic Paris

Begin your Parisian journey at the Eiffel Tower. Book tickets (from €14.20 to €35.30) in advance online to skip the long queues. Climb (or take the elevator) to the top for breathtaking views of Paris.

Next, stroll through the Champs de Mars gardens to the Seine River. Take a leisurely river cruise (€15–€50), perfect for capturing scenic views of landmarks such as Notre-Dame and the Musée d'Orsay.

In the afternoon, visit the Arc de Triomphe (€16), offering panoramic views of the famous Champs-Élysées boulevard. Finish your evening exploring this glamorous avenue, stopping at Ladurée for Parisian macarons.

Day 2: Artistic treasures and Montmartre charm

Start your day at the world-famous Louvre Museum (€22). To save money, visit on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m. (except in July and August) or on 14 July, when entry is free. 

Regardless of when you visit, it's recommended to reserve your entry online in advance, letting you quickly access renowned artworks like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Afterward, unwind with a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the lovely nearby Tuileries Gardens (free admission).

In the afternoon, venture to Montmartre, the artistic heart of Paris. Wander picturesque streets, visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica (free entry), and browse local art in Place du Tertre. End your day with dinner at a classic bistro like Le Consulat (appetizers €8–€17, main courses €13–€23).

Day 3: Royal splendor at Versailles

Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles (UNESCO World Heritage Site), approximately 40 minutes from central Paris by RER (€7 round-trip). Reserve tickets (€21) online in advance to avoid queues.

Day 4: History, culture, and gastronomy

Begin your day at Notre-Dame Cathedral (free admission). Then cross the Seine to explore the vibrant Latin Quarter. Visit Shakespeare and Company, the iconic English-language bookstore, and the historic Pantheon (€13). 

In the afternoon, indulge at Le Marais, a trendy neighborhood with cozy cafés. End your day exploring the nearby Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest and most elegant square.

Day 5: Day trip to the Loire Valley or Giverny

If castles intrigue you, journey by train to the Loire Valley (1–2 hours, €30–€40 each way), exploring majestic châteaux like Château de Chambord or Château de Chenonceau.

Alternatively, art lovers can visit Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s gardens and house (€14 entry), about one hour from Paris by train (€13–€16 each way). Return to Paris by evening and savor dinner at a traditional Parisian brasserie.

Paris itinerary: Extended explorations & French charm (6–14 Days)

For travelers who want to explore Paris beyond the standard attractions, this itinerary covers not only the city’s best hidden gems but also offers practical ideas for memorable day trips and unique local experiences.

Day 6: Musée d’Orsay & Luxembourg Gardens

In the morning, visit the Musée d’Orsay, one of Paris’s top museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir. Entrance is €16—book online in advance to skip lines.

After the museum, relax in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, perfect for a picnic or casual stroll. Nearby is the charming neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to famous cafés such as Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots—excellent spots for coffee or lunch and for people-watching.

10-Day itinerary: French elegance & local discoveries

With ten days in Paris, you'll have the chance to dive deeper into French culture, explore local neighborhoods, and add a memorable day trip to your itinerary. Visit iconic theme parks, venture into historic towns, and enrich your experience beyond the city's central attractions.

Day 7: Disneyland

Just 45 minutes by RER train from central Paris (RER Line A, approx. €2.50 each way), Disneyland offers a classic theme park experience with attractions, shows, parades, and the famous Sleeping Beauty Castle. 

It’s suitable for all ages, especially younger children and Disney enthusiasts. Tickets range from €50–€150 depending on the season, number of days, and park access (one or both parks).

Day 8: Champagne region day trip (Reims)

Take a day trip to Reims, the heart of France’s Champagne region, easily reached by high-speed train (45 min, approx. €15–€40 each way). Visit the famous Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned.

Afterward, join a guided tour at renowned Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger (tour & tasting €40–€85). Reservations are highly recommended.

Day 9: Shopping & culinary experiences

Spend your morning shopping in Paris’s best areas. Visit Galeries Lafayette for luxury shopping and stunning architecture, or go back to Le Marais for trendy boutiques, vintage shops, and unique local products.

In the afternoon or evening, attend a Parisian cooking class (prices start around €120). Learn how to make classic French dishes such as macarons, éclairs, or beef bourguignon. Book online in advance through popular platforms like Cook’n With Class or Le Foodist.

Day 10: Père Lachaise Cemetery & Canal Saint-Martin

Begin with a morning stroll in Père Lachaise Cemetery, where famous individuals like Oscar Wilde, Chopin, and Jim Morrison are buried. Admission is free, and it’s a peaceful place rich with history.

In the afternoon, explore the lively and trendy Canal Saint-Martin district. Enjoy the many cafés, small shops, and street art along the canal. Finish your day with dinner at one of the neighborhood's popular local bistros or cafés.

14-Day itinerary: Hidden gems & regional adventures

If you have two full weeks, Paris serves as the perfect base for exploring the captivating beauty and historic charm of surrounding regions. 

From Normandy’s historic shores to grand palaces just a short train ride away, these extended days provide the perfect balance of city life and picturesque countryside discoveries.

Day 11: Normandy: Mont Saint-Michel

Visit this iconic island crowned by a stunning medieval abbey, dramatically rising above tidal flats. Wander ancient streets lined with historic houses, climb to the abbey for panoramic views, and enjoy local Normandy cuisine. Guided tours from Paris, including transportation, typically range between €100–€150.

Day 12: Day Trip to Strasbourg & Alsace region

Travel to the beautiful city of Strasbourg, reachable by high-speed TGV train from Paris in approximately 2 hours (€20–€60 each way). Strasbourg uniquely blends French and German cultural influences, making it unlike anywhere else in France.

Explore its UNESCO-listed historic city center, admire the famous Strasbourg Cathedral, wander through Petite France (the charming historic quarter filled with timber-framed houses), and enjoy Alsatian specialties such as choucroute (sauerkraut with sausages), tarte flambée, and local wines. If time allows, consider a brief wine tour to nearby Alsace villages like Colmar or Riquewihr.

Day 13: Fontainebleau or Chantilly

Spend your day at the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, a beautiful royal palace just 40 minutes by train from Paris (around €10 for a round-trip). Explore lavishly furnished rooms used by French royalty, from François I to Napoleon, including the impressive Renaissance galleries, Napoleon's throne room, and the fascinating Napoleon I Museum.

Outside, wander through extensive formal French and English gardens, enjoy a picnic beside the carp pond, or rent a rowboat for a leisurely ride. For an even more memorable visit, consider taking a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride (€6 for an hour). Entry tickets cost approximately €14.

Day 14: Final leisurely day in Paris

Source: The Guardian

Enjoy your final day with relaxed exploration. Stroll the beautiful Promenade Plantée, an elevated park offering unique views of Paris, or shop for souvenirs at Rue Mouffetard’s lively street market.

End your Paris trip memorably with a Seine River dinner cruise (€60–€120). You'll enjoy a gourmet meal while viewing the city’s illuminated landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.

Hotel Recommendations for Every Budget

To complement your Paris stay, here are three hotel options catering to different budgets:

Le Meurice

A luxurious palace hotel near the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens. Renowned for its exquisite interiors, Michelin-starred dining, and impeccable service. (From €1,300 per night)

Hôtel Le Walt

Elegant, art-inspired boutique hotel located near the Eiffel Tower and charming Rue Cler market street. Offers stylish rooms and personalized service at an approachable price. (From around €180 per night )

Generator Paris

Modern, trendy hostel located in the lively 10th arrondissement. Offers clean, comfortable private rooms or dormitory-style accommodation with a vibrant atmosphere and rooftop views. (From €45 per night)

Local secrets for first-timers

  • Best time to visit: April–June and September–October offer ideal weather and smaller crowds.
  • Transportation: The metro is convenient (€2.15 per ticket or unlimited weekly pass, approx. €30). For day trips, regional trains (RER) and high-speed trains (TGV) are reliable and fast.
  • France plug types: In France, you’ll need plug adapters: Type C (for small devices) or Type E (with grounding pin). Popular adapters include AmazonBasics 3-Pack (value), TESSAN European Plug Adapter (multiple devices), or Epicka Universal Travel Adapter (all-in-one). 
  • Local customs: Always greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with “Bonjour.” Shops often close on Sundays; plan accordingly.
  • Dining etiquette: Dinner usually starts after 7 PM. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.
  • Currency: Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and cards are accepted nearly everywhere.
  • Safety: Paris is popular with travelers, but you should stay cautious. Pickpockets often target crowded spots like metro stations, Eiffel Tower lines, and museums. Keep valuables secured in zipped bags or front pockets.

Internet connectivity

France offers excellent connectivity, especially in Paris, where extensive 4G and increasing 5G coverage ensures reliable internet access. Public Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and parks, although it can be less secure or unreliable in crowded areas.

Travelers looking for dependable connectivity should consider purchasing an eSIM or prepaid SIM card before arrival for seamless navigation, communication, and connectivity without roaming charges.

ProviderProsConsPrice
HolaflyUnlimited data, 24/7 customer supportData sharing unavailableFrom $6.90 
AiraloAffordable pricing, extensive global coverageLimited unlimited data optionsFrom $5 for 1GB
NomadUser-friendly app, varied data packagesHigher prices for larger data packagesFrom $8 for 1GB

Paris Itinerary FAQ

How much is the train from London to Paris?

Eurostar fares typically range from €50–€150 one way, taking about 2 hours 15 minutes. Booking in advance can secure lower prices.

Is 4 days in Paris too long?


No, four days is perfect for comfortably exploring major landmarks and experiencing local life without rushing.

Can I use Uber in Paris?

Yes, Uber is widely available and convenient in Paris, offering competitive pricing compared to traditional taxis.

Is Paris a walkable city?

Absolutely. Paris is extremely pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. Public transportation is excellent for longer journeys.

Where not to stay in Paris for the first time?

Avoid staying in areas around Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est train stations, particularly at night, as they can feel less welcoming for first-time visitors.

Vukasin Petrovic is an experienced content specialist and copywriter with expertise in digital marketing, on-page SEO, and inbound lead generation. With a degree in English and a master's in creative writing, he creates compelling content that delivers measurable results for businesses.

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