Perfect 5 Days in Paris Itinerary is the ultimate guide to experiencing the best of Paris, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
This carefully crafted plan ensures you can make the most of your time in the City of Light, combining world-famous attractions with local experiences.
Day 1 starts with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, followed by a tour of the Louvre Museum. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, admire the Arc de Triomphe, and enjoy a relaxing Seine River cruise in the evening.
On Day 2, head to the artistic Montmartre district, explore the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and visit Place du Tertre. Spend the afternoon in the Musée d’Orsay, home to iconic Impressionist works.
Day 3 takes you to Notre-Dame Cathedral, then explore the charming Latin Quarter and visit the Pantheon. In the evening, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Day 4 is a day trip to the grandeur of Palace of Versailles, exploring the palace and its stunning gardens. Return to Paris for an evening in the vibrant Le Marais district.
Day 5 concludes with a relaxed day, visiting the Musée Rodin and exploring the trendy Canal Saint-Martin area.
Overview
Perfect 5 Days in Paris Itinerary is designed to help you experience the magic of Paris in just five days.
This guide takes you through a balanced mix of the city’s iconic landmarks, artistic treasures, charming neighborhoods, and peaceful spots, ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-see attractions.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, this itinerary offers something for every type of traveler.
Over the course of five days, you’ll have the chance to admire the stunning Eiffel Tower, explore world-class museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, and wander the picturesque streets of Montmartre.
You’ll also dive into Paris’s rich history, from the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral to the opulent Palace of Versailles.
To balance out your adventure, the itinerary also incorporates peaceful moments at beautiful parks, relaxing river cruises, and vibrant districts like Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
This carefully curated plan ensures you get a mix of sightseeing, culture, art, and relaxation, while also providing you with plenty of opportunities to experience the authentic Parisian atmosphere.
Day 1: Iconic Paris
Your first day in Paris will be dedicated to exploring the city’s most iconic landmarks, giving you a fantastic introduction to its grandeur and charm.
Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, the symbol of Paris. Whether you choose to take the elevator to the top for panoramic views or simply enjoy the structure from the base, it’s a must-see. From here, you can walk along the Champ de Mars for a great photo opportunity of the tower.
Next, head to the Louvre Museum, just a short distance away. Home to thousands of artworks, including the famous Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, the Louvre is one of the largest and most renowned museums in the world. Spend a few hours exploring its vast collection.
In the afternoon, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. From high-end shops to quaint cafés, this street offers a Parisian experience like no other.
Day 2: Art & Culture
Day 2 in Paris is all about immersing yourself in the city’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. From iconic art museums to bohemian neighborhoods, this day promises a deep dive into the creative soul of Paris.
Begin your morning in Montmartre, the artistic heart of Paris. Wander through the charming streets and visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica at the top of the hill for panoramic views of the city.
Once you’ve soaked in the views, explore Place du Tertre, a lively square where local artists display their work, giving you a taste of the area’s artistic history.
Afterwards, head to the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, to view an incredible collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
Works by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas await you here, making it one of the most important museums in Paris. Take your time strolling through its galleries and don’t miss the famous clock, which offers a unique view of the city.
For lunch, enjoy a meal in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, a hub of literary and intellectual history.
This area is home to historic cafés like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, which were frequented by famous writers and philosophers like Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.
In the afternoon, visit the Musée Rodin, dedicated to the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin. The museum is set in a beautiful garden, where you can admire sculptures like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell in a tranquil environment.
Day 3: Montmartre Magic
Day 3 will take you deep into the heart of Montmartre, one of Paris’s most enchanting and historic neighborhoods. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, artistic legacy, and stunning views, this day will immerse you in the charm and allure of the area.
Start your morning by visiting the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched at the highest point in the city.
This magnificent church is not only a religious landmark but also a fantastic viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of Paris. Spend some time exploring the basilica’s interior before stepping outside to admire the view from the dome.
Next, take a stroll through the Place du Tertre, a vibrant square filled with local artists showcasing their work. You can even commission a portrait or sketch from one of the artists to take home as a unique souvenir.
Montmartre’s artistic history comes alive here, as this was once the stomping ground for famous artists like Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh.
After soaking up the artistic atmosphere, head to the Espace Dalí, a museum dedicated to the surrealist works of Salvador Dalí.
The museum offers a fascinating look at his sculptures, paintings, and drawings, allowing you to explore the mind of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
For lunch, enjoy a meal in one of the local cafés in Montmartre, where you can indulge in classic French cuisine while watching the world go by. Le Consulat and Café des Deux Moulins are famous spots that have been beloved by artists and writers for years.
In the afternoon, explore the Montmartre Cemetery, the final resting place of many notable figures, including Jean-Baptiste Clément and Emilie Lemoine. This peaceful and atmospheric cemetery offers a moment of reflection and a connection to the past.
Day 4: Hidden Gems & Shopping
Day 4 in Paris will be a perfect mix of discovering lesser-known treasures and indulging in the city’s renowned shopping scene.
From quirky museums to charming streets, this day reveals a side of Paris that often goes unnoticed by first-time visitors.
Start your morning by visiting the Musée de l’Orangerie, a hidden gem located in the Tuileries Gardens. This small but impressive museum is home to Monet’s Water Lilies series, a breathtaking collection that will leave you in awe. The peaceful atmosphere here provides a serene start to your day.
Next, wander to the Passage des Panoramas, one of the oldest covered arcades in Paris. This charming shopping gallery is full of antique shops, quaint boutiques, and cafes, making it a perfect spot to explore at a relaxed pace. It’s a wonderful place to find unique souvenirs and experience a more historic side of Paris.
For lunch, head to Le Marais, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Paris. Known for its mix of old-world charm and modern chic, Le Marais is home to a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and hidden courtyards. Enjoy a meal at a cozy bistro, such as Café Charlot, which embodies the Parisian café culture.
Afterward, dive into some shopping in Le Marais. Explore Rue des Francs-Bourgeois for high-end fashion boutiques or visit Merci, a concept store offering a curated selection of clothing, home decor, and books, all in a stylish setting. This is a perfect place to find something truly Parisian to take home.
In the afternoon, make your way to Canal Saint-Martin, a hip and laid-back area popular with locals. Stroll along the canal, lined with bohemian boutiques, quirky cafés, and artistic spaces. If you’re looking for something unique, check out the Antoine & Lili boutique, where you’ll find colorful, eclectic clothing and accessories.
Day 5: Day Trips & Farewell
For your final day in Paris, take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle with a memorable day trip to one of the many nearby destinations that Paris has to offer.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or luxury, there’s something for everyone just a short journey from the city.
Start your day with a visit to the Palace of Versailles, located about 45 minutes outside of Paris. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its opulence, including the stunning Hall of Mirrors and meticulously designed gardens.
Spend the morning exploring the palace and its vast grounds, taking in the grandeur and beauty that once defined French royalty.
If you’re more inclined to history, consider a visit to Fontainebleau Palace, a former royal residence set in a lush forest about an hour from Paris. This majestic château is filled with stunning rooms, artwork, and gardens, providing a more tranquil, less-crowded experience compared to Versailles.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more relaxed day, head to the picturesque Giverny village, home to Claude Monet’s house and gardens.
This charming destination is where the famous artist lived for much of his life, and you can stroll through the beautiful gardens that inspired some of his most famous works, including the iconic Water Lilies series.
After returning to Paris in the afternoon, take some time for one last stroll through the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Pick up any final souvenirs, enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk café, and soak in the Parisian atmosphere one last time.
For your farewell dinner, indulge in a meal at a classic Parisian restaurant or brasserie. Enjoy a delicious French meal, whether it’s escargot, coq au vin, or a simple croque-monsieur, and reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had over the past five days in Paris.
Conclusion
After five unforgettable days, you’ve experienced the very best of Paris, from iconic landmarks and world-class art to charming neighborhoods and relaxing day trips.
Whether you marveled at the Eiffel Tower, wandered through the artistic streets of Montmartre, or indulged in Paris’s renowned shopping scene, this itinerary has shown you why the City of Light continues to captivate travelers from around the world.
Paris is a city that offers something for everyone, blending history, culture, fashion, and gastronomy in a way few destinations can.
Your journey may have come to an end, but the memories of Paris’s beauty, charm, and allure will stay with you long after you’ve said your goodbyes.
