Day one
Begin your first day in Paris with a visit to one of the world's most iconic landmarks, the Eiffel Tower. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take in panoramic views of the city from the tower's observation decks. After descending, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River towards the Trocadéro Gardens for more breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities. From there, make your way to the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. Enjoy a coffee or croissant at a charming café and explore the upscale boutiques that line the street. Don't forget to visit the Arc de Triomphe, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, for another impressive architectural marvel.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art and history at the Louvre Museum, the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre is a cultural treasure trove. Spend a few hours exploring the vast collection, or focus on specific exhibits based on your interests. Afterward, take a short walk to the Île de la Cité, the historical heart of Paris. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, and stroll through the charming streets of this island, filled with cafes, bookshops, and the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
As the sun begins to set, embark on a romantic Seine River cruise to see the city's landmarks illuminated against the night sky. Many operators offer evening cruises that pass by iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre, providing a magical perspective of Paris. After the cruise, head to the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre. Enjoy dinner at a traditional French bistro, and then explore the artistic and vibrant atmosphere of Montmartre's narrow streets. Climb the steps to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur for a stunning view of the city lights below. Wrap up your first day in Paris with the charm and enchantment of Montmartre.
Day two
Start your second day in Paris with a visit to Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic gem known for its stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes. Located on the Île de la Cité, this chapel is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Take some time to marvel at the intricate details and vibrant colors of the windows. Afterward, cross the Seine River to Île Saint-Louis, a charming island with narrow streets and historic buildings. Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll, stopping at quaint boutiques and cafes. Indulge in a delicious pastry or coffee at one of the local bakeries, and savor the peaceful ambiance of this picturesque island.
In the afternoon, head to the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station and renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Admire works by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas in this unique and beautiful setting. After exploring the museum, venture to the nearby Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. This historic area has been a gathering place for intellectuals, writers, and artists for centuries. Explore the vibrant streets, visit the iconic Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots for a coffee, and browse the boutique shops. The Luxembourg Gardens, a short walk away, offer a serene escape and are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
As evening falls, return to the Seine River for a romantic dinner cruise. Many operators offer evening cruises with gourmet meals and panoramic views of Paris lit up at night. Enjoy the city's landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, illuminated against the dark sky as you dine on the water. After the cruise, make your way to the Eiffel Tower for a different perspective of its sparkling lights. The tower sparkles for a few minutes every hour after sunset, creating a magical ambiance. You can view this spectacle from the Champ de Mars or Trocadéro Gardens for a memorable end to your second day in the City of Light.
Day three
Start your third day in Paris with a visit to the Montparnasse Tower, offering stunning panoramic views of the city without the crowds often found at the Eiffel Tower. From the observation deck, you can see landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Capture the city from a different perspective and appreciate its vast beauty. After descending, take a short walk to the Luxembourg Gardens. This beautifully landscaped park is perfect for a peaceful morning stroll. Admire the Luxembourg Palace, fountains, and statues, and perhaps find a quiet spot to relax with a book. The Luxembourg Gardens provide a serene and green escape from the bustling city.
In the afternoon, head to the Marais district and explore the Picasso Museum, housed in the Hôtel Salé, a grand 17th-century mansion. The museum showcases the works of Pablo Picasso, spanning paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and drawings. It offers insight into the artist's creative evolution and his significant impact on modern art. After the museum, wander through the narrow streets of the Marais, known for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant atmosphere. Stop for lunch at a cozy café or boulangerie and enjoy some people-watching in one of Paris's most fashionable neighborhoods.
In the evening, head to the Latin Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere, bookshops, and student life. Explore the historic Sorbonne University, visit the Panthéon, and stroll along the charming streets filled with bistros and cafes. For dinner, choose from the diverse array of international restaurants in the area. Afterward, embark on a nighttime Seine River cruise to see the city's monuments illuminated against the dark sky. The enchanting views of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and other landmarks from the water provide a magical and romantic end to your three days in Paris.
Day four
Commence your fourth day in Paris with a visit to the Musée de l'Orangerie, located in the Tuileries Garden near the Place de la Concorde. This museum is renowned for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, particularly Claude Monet's Water Lilies. Spend some time absorbing the tranquility and beauty of these immersive paintings. After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Garden, a meticulously manicured park with fountains, statues, and charming pathways. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and perhaps find a spot to relax and take in the surroundings.
In the afternoon, head to the lively Saint-Michel district, known for its vibrant atmosphere, bookshops, and cafes. Explore the Latin Quarter's narrow streets, filled with history and character. Visit the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookstore, a haven for book lovers, and then cross the Seine River to Île de la Cité. Explore the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle if you missed them on the previous days. Take your time wandering through the charming streets, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the ambiance of this historic island.
For your final evening in Paris, venture to the trendy Le Marais district. This fashionable neighborhood offers a mix of historic charm and modern flair. Explore the narrow lanes filled with boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafes. Choose a cozy restaurant in Le Marais for a delightful dinner, savoring French cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Seine Riverbanks. Enjoy the beautifully illuminated bridges and iconic landmarks, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral. Reflect on your time in the City of Light as you soak in the romantic atmosphere of Paris at night. It's a fitting way to conclude your unforgettable four days in this enchanting city.
Day five
On your last day in Paris, revisit the Musée d'Orsay for a more leisurely exploration or focus on specific exhibits you might have missed. Take your time to appreciate the extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art housed in the beautiful former railway station. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Seine River, crossing picturesque bridges and admiring the riverside architecture. Consider grabbing a coffee or a pastry from a local café to enjoy as you take in the scenic views. This tranquil morning by the Seine offers a chance to reflect on the art and beauty that Paris has to offer.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Louvre Museum, home to a vast and diverse collection of art spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. Take in the world-famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Allow some time for wandering through the museum's grand halls and discovering lesser-known treasures. After your museum visit, head to the nearby Jardin des Tuileries for a relaxing break. Find a bench or a spot on the grass to unwind and absorb the beauty of this historic garden. Consider taking a leisurely walk around the ornamental ponds and enjoying the sculptures that dot the landscape.
For your final evening in Paris, choose the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés district for a farewell dinner. This historic area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a mix of traditional Parisian bistros and trendy eateries. Indulge in a delicious French meal at a cozy restaurant, savoring the flavors of Parisian cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, enjoying the ambiance of this literary and artistic quarter. It's a perfect way to bid adieu to the City of Light and create lasting memories of your time in Paris.