5 days in Paris: the only itinerary you need

Every year, millions of people visit Paris for its immense artistic and cultural heritage and discover the myriad of unmissable places that make Paris suitable for any type of visitor. To experience Paris the right way take at least 5 days to explore and immerse yourself in Parisian life.

I always thought that the real charm of Paris was how you can discover something different every season, from the wonderful colors in spring and things to do in Paris in summer to the magical winter atmosphere. So whenever you enjoy your 5 days in Paris, the city will offer something new, from the landmarks in the heart of the city to flavors of French cuisine and wine in the Champagne region.

With so many things to do in Paris, every visit promises a fresh and exciting experience.

Day 1: The heart of Paris

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a monument dedicated to the soldiers who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Under the arch, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, explore the museum, and climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views of Paris.

Insider tip:

Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy unobstructed views.

Address and opening hours:

Arc de Triomphe, Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France

Open daily from April to September, 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and until 10:30 PM October to March.

Champs Élysées

From the Arc de Triomphe, walk along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the most glamorous avenue in Paris and one of the most expensive streets in the world. Admire the shop windows of brands like Cartier and Louis Vuitton and check out more wallet-friendly stores like Nike and Zara. 

Insider tip:

Visit on the first Sunday of the month to explore the pedestrian-only avenue.

Address: 

Champs Élysées, 75008 Paris, France

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower has been the symbol of Paris since 1889. It wouldn't be an itinerary for Paris if it didn't include visiting this iconic landmark, it's a must-do for first-timers in Paris. Climb the tower to learn about its construction, experience stunning panoramic views, and enjoy a romantic meal looking out over Paris.

Insider tip:

Book a ticket in advance and visit in the morning to avoid the long lines and crowds.

Address and opening hours: 

Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France

Open 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM June to September and until 11:00 PM the rest of the year.

Latin Quarter

One of the best things to do in Paris at night is visit the city's famous Latin Quarter. A historical neighborhood, home to the renowned Sorbonne University, Panthéon, and a bustling nightlife. Walk through the winding streets, enjoy dinner at a bistro, or stop at a cozy bar for a drink.

Insider tip:

Enjoy an intimate environment and lively performances at one of the Latin Quarter’s jazz clubs, like Le Caveau de la Huchette.

Day 2: Art and culture

Louvre Museum

No Paris travel itinerary is complete without a visit to the Louvre. Set aside a morning in your Paris itinerary to visit the world’s largest museum. Home to a vast collection of masterpieces by artists like Da Vinci and artifacts from the ancient world, the Louvre has something for everyone. With so much to see, make sure to plan your visit around a few pieces that interest you. 

Insider tip:

To optimize your time and avoid long lines outside, buy a timed entrance ticket in advance.

Address and opening hours:

Louvre, 75001 Paris, France

The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays but open all other days of the week starting at 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM, with hours extended to 9:45 PM on Fridays.

Tuileries Garden

Just outside the Louvre, you can find the beautiful Tuileries Garden, one of the best free things to do in Paris. Opened to the public in the 17th century, the Tuileries Garden is the oldest formal garden in Paris and one of the most visited places in the city because of its ideal location and stunning landscaping.

Insider tip:

Pick up lunch to enjoy on a secluded bench along the paths, or sit at the central pond and people-watch.

Address and opening hours:

Tuileries Garden, 75001 Paris, France

Open daily from sunrise around 7:00 AM until 7:30 PM October to March, with hours entered to 9:00 PM April, May, September, and later until 11:00 PM in the summer.

Sainte-Chapelle

One of the top things to do in Île de la Cité, the Sainte-Chapelle is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Discover its majestic design and see the kaleidoscopic effect cast throughout the 13th-century royal chapel from the stained glass windows depicting 1,113 biblical scenes.

Insider tip:

Take time to wander through the chapel and appreciate the stained glass and intricate architectural details in the upper chapel. 

Address and opening hours:

Sainte-Chapelle, 10 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris, France

Open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM October to March and until 7:00 PM April to September.

Conciergerie

Explore the Conciergerie, a historic building that is part of the large complex of the Palace of Justice, located in the Île de la Cité. Once a seat of power in the Middle Ages, it later held notable prisoners like Marie Antoinette and Robespierre. Today, it's an example of Paris’ complex history.

Insider tip:

Enjoy a more intimate experience wandering the medieval halls in the late afternoon when the crowds have thinned out.

Address and opening hours:

Conciergerie, 2 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris, France

Open daily, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on holidays.

Day 3: Montparnasse to Montmartre

Montparnasse Tower

You can’t miss the Montparnasse Tower in your 5 days in Paris. It's the second tallest structure in Paris, which offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Atop the tower, enjoy unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower and spot some of Paris’ iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Saint-Chapelle, and Sacré-Coeur.

Insider tip:

If you want to experience truly stunning views, plan your visit for sunset, but make sure to pre-book your ticket to secure your preferred time. 

Address and opening hours:

Montparnasse Tower, 33 Av. du Maine, 75015 Paris, France

Open from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM Sunday to Thursday and until 11:00 PM Friday and Saturday from October to March. It is open daily from 9:30 AM to 11:30 PM from April to September.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Not so far from the Montparnasse Tower is one of Paris’ most beautiful public gardens, Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s a whimsical place to stop and relax in the heart of the city. Here you can enjoy tranquil moments by the central fountain or in the lush garden filled with statues and monuments.

Insider tip:

Take time to walk to the Medici Fountain, a stunning decorative fountain in a shaded area that creates a peaceful, relaxing environment.  

Address and opening hours:

Jardin du Luxembourg, 75006 Paris, France

The garden is open year-round, with the hours coinciding with sunrise and sunset.

Sacré-Coeur

At the highest point in the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica provides a privileged view over the whole city. There are many steps to climb to reach the church, but you can also take a funicular located to the left of the staircase. Inside the church, you will find one of the largest mosaics in the world, the Majesty of the Lord. You can also climb up to the dome to get more breathtaking views of Paris.

Insider tip:

If you want a more picturesque and serene experience, add a sunrise or sunset visit to your itinerary for Paris to take in the amazing city views without fewer crowds. 

Address and opening hours:

Sacré-Coeur, 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France

Open daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM.

Moulin Rouge

Montmartre has many cozy bistros and amazing studios you can check out on your way down to the Moulin Rouge, one of Paris' best shows. The famous Parisian cabaret opened its doors in 1889 and its glitzy and glam shows should definitely be on your Paris travel itinerary.  

Insider tip:

The Moulin Rouge is a popular attraction, so if you want to experience Paris’ best cabaret book your ticket well in advance.  

Address and opening hours:

Moulin Rouge, 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France

Dinner shows start at 7:00 PM, with additional shows at 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM.

Day 4: Add a day trip to your 5 day Paris itinerary

Versailles

One of the most popular places to visit near Paris is the Palace and the Gardens of Versailles. Visit the stunning Hall of Mirrors, explore the glamorous state apartments, and walk through the sprawling palace gardens, where you can visit Marie Antoinette’s private estate and enjoy a magical fountain show.

Insider tip:

If you are interested in the history of Versailles, join a guided tour to experience a more structured visit and learn about the palace and former royals.

Address and opening hours:

Palace of Versailles, Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France

The palace opens at 9:00 AM, and Trianon opens at 12:00 PM; both close at 5:30 PM and are closed all day Monday. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Disneyland Paris

For a truly magical day trip from Paris, spend the day at Disneyland Paris. Be prepared for a fun-filled day as you explore the park and Walt Disney Studios Park, enjoy thrilling rides, check out the shows, and stop to experience the parades.

Insider tip:

Stay late to enjoy the evening fireworks and light show at Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Stand by It’s a Small World for a less crowded experience. 

Address and opening hours:

Disneyland Paris, Bd de Parc, 77700 Coupvray, France

Disneyland Paris and the Studios Park open at 9:30 AM, with the Studios Park closing at 9:00 PM and Disneyland closing at 10:00 PM.

Giverny

Travel north to the Normandy region to visit the quaint village of Giverny. Explore the charming village and visit the house where Claude Monet lived, now home to the Claude Monet Foundation. Immerse yourself in Monet’s world, visit his studio, and wander through the vibrant gardens that inspired many of his famous paintings for the perfect Paris itinerary.

Insider tip:

Monet’s garden is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is in spring to see it in full bloom. 

Address and opening hours:

House of Claude Monet, 84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France

Open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM from April to October. Closed from November to March.

Wine tour

Spend the day in the French countryside discovering France’s renowned wine culture. Visit world-class estates to discover the secrets of French winemaking. Walk among the rows of grapes in the vineyards, explore impressive wine cellars, and learn about local wines during curated tastings. 

Insider tip:

Visit in late September and early October to see the vineyards being harvested.

Day 5: See the best of the rest

Musée d’Orsay

Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is one of the best museums in Paris. Take time out of your last day to explore the museum’s impressive collection of sculptures, furniture, photographs, and paintings, notably impressionist works. Marvel at the museum’s unique architecture and admire the works of Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Renoir.

Insider tip:

Avoid the crowds by starting your visit on the 5th floor to see the impressionist masterpieces, then explore the rest of the collection as you work your way down. 

Address and opening hours:

Musee d’Orsay, Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, 75007 Paris, France

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with hours extended to 9:45 PM on Thursdays.

Palais Garnier

Visit Palais Garnier, Paris’ main opera house and an extravagant representation of the architecture of the Second Empire in France. If you don’t have time to catch a performance, go inside and climb the monumental staircase, admire the ceiling painted by Chagall, the grand chandelier in the auditorium, and the beautiful paintings and sculptures that decorate the halls. 

Insider tip:

If you want to experience the elegance of a performance at Palais Garnier, make sure to book your ticket in advance to secure your seat before they sell out.

Address and opening hours:

Palais Garnier, Pl. de l'Opéra, 75009 Paris, France

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 with the ticket office open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Seine River cruise

Enjoy one of Paris' cruises on the Seine any time of the day, and take in amazing views of the city’s most iconic landmarks. There are plenty of options; whether you want to learn about the city on a guided cruise or enjoy a romantic evening with dinner onboard, don’t miss out on this fantastic activity. 

Insider tip:

An evening cruise is the most amazing: you get to see Paris transform as the sun sets and landmarks light up, creating truly stunning scenery.

FAQs:

What's the best way to get around Paris?

The Paris Metro covers most of Paris and is a very efficient way to get around the city. You can also rent city bikes or walk to explore Paris’ charming neighborhoods.

What is a good way to save money while visiting Paris?

The Paris Pass is an excellent way to save money if you plan to visit many of the city’s landmarks, as it offers discounted prices and can be used over several days. Purchasing a Paris Visite travel card offers unlimited travel within select zones and is a great way to save money as you explore the city during your 5 nights in Paris. 

Is Paris safe at night?

Paris is relatively safe at night, but it is good to stay vigilant of your surroundings like any major city. Avoid poorly lit places, try to stay in populated areas, and be cautious of pickpocketing, making sure to keep your valuables tucked away.

What is the best time to visit Paris?

Each season offers its unique charm to Paris, but if you are looking for smaller crowds and milder weather, the best time to visit is spring and fall. 

What are some tips for first-time visitors?

Learn a few basic phrases before your trip to help you interact with Parisians and navigate the city. Make sure to always carry some cash, as some cafes and shops will not take credit cards. Lastly, embrace the Parisian way of life as you stroll through the streets, stop to enjoy a drink at a cafe, or have a leisurely lunch at a bistro.