5 Days In Paris: The Best Itinerary

So you’ve decided to spend five days in Paris and are looking for the greatest schedule you can find. Look no further!

The City of Lights, known for its stunning architecture, world-class art collections, and gastronomic pleasures, provides a plethora of activities for every visitor.

I’ve put together a 5-day itinerary that will take you on a spectacular tour of Paris’ major sites, hidden secrets, and dynamic districts.

5 Days In Paris: The Best Itinerary

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Best Season to Explore Paris for 5 Days

The ideal season to visit Paris for 5 days depends on your particular choices for weather, people, and specific things you want to do. Take these variables into consideration and prepare appropriately to make the most of your visit to the City of Light.

It is possible to visit Paris at any time of year. If you are limited to 5 days in Paris, I suggest going between the end of spring and October when the days have more time and you get more daylight to spend exploring.

Day 1: Exploring Le Marais

Le Marais, which spans most of the third and fourth arrondissements on the Seine’s rive droite, was initially dried up and farmed in order to provide vegetables for the abbeys in the area around it.

The Marais is home to some of the city’s top museums and stores, which means you could easily dedicate a whole day here.

Begin your day with breakfast at one of Le Marais’ many wonderful eateries. Strada Café serves French and European cuisine, while Le Peloton Cafe serves wonderful coffee and pastries to kick off your day.

Place des Vosges

After eating your breakfast, head to the beautiful Place des Vosges! The Place des Vosges constitutes one of the oldest and most picturesque squares in Paris.

I go beneath the arches and down the walkways of the central garden, admiring the lovely red brick façade. It is an absolute necessity!

Remember that there is no admission cost to the Place des Vosges; if someone offers you a ticket for a pass, kindly ignore them.

The Paris City Pass is a comprehensive city tour package that also acts as your ticket to many of Paris’s greatest landmarks, museums, and attractions. To really appreciate its magnificence, I recommend spending at least 1 hour and 30 minutes here.

Hôtel de Sully

Built to provide access to Place des Vosges, it now serves as the headquarters for the administration and preservation of France’s ancient structures and monuments.

There is a tiny souvenir shop on the ground level, and you may go through the grounds. Because it is a little out of the way, this little garden is sometimes overlooked by tourists to Le Marais.

I recommend spending at least 30 minutes here, but if you want to see more and buy souvenirs, an hour is plenty.

Anne Frank Garden

After seeing Hôtel de Sully, rest at Anne Frank Garden. This modest symbolic garden in Paris can be found on the Impasse Berthaud, a dead-end road in Paris’s 3rd Arrondissement, and many people are unaware of its existence.

The entry is on the right-hand side as you gaze down the Impasse Berthaud, only just a few meters toward the museum’s entrance.

A visit takes around an hour on average, however, I recommend spending your lunch near the garden to begin your afternoon full of energy.

La Station Rambuteau specializes in French and European cuisine. The roast duck and seared ahi entrees are also delicious. The prices are really fair, and the wait staff are incredibly kind.

Saint-Jacques

After eating your lunch, tour the area around Saint Jacques. This cathedral served as a gathering place for pilgrims traveling along the Via Toronensis toward Santiago de Compostela.

A statue of Saint Jacques le Majeur adorns the northwest side of the tower, while the carved emblems of the four evangelists show on the sides. The rest of the design is finished with gargoyles and saint figurines.

The peak is reached through a 300-step narrow stairway. You will be rewarded for your efforts with one of Paris’ greatest vistas.

The majority of my two-hour trip is spent at the bottom of this tower, with two stops along the way up.

Although the view from the observation deck of Tour Saint-Jacques is spectacular, tourists are only permitted to stay at the top of the tower for 15 minutes!

Rue des Barres

The Rue des Barres is an old cobblestone pedestrian lane that runs from the back of St-Gervais church through to the Seine, along the right bank in the Marais neighborhood, just east of the Hôtel de Ville.

L’Ebouillanté is a popular, low-cost café that serves salads, pastries, and light meals, with a focus on hot Tunisian crèpes. It is worth spending 1 to 2 hours of your time here because there is so much to see and do.

Only 9 minutes of walk from Rue des Barres, you can have your dinner at Dame Tartine. Friendly service and a large two-page menu with a variety of tartines await you here. Tartine is a lengthy piece of bread topped with delectably fresh toppings. And everything is decently priced!

Day 2: The Latin Quarter and Famous Sites

While this is considered the heart of Parisian academic life, it is also the birthplace of Roman Paris – Lutetia.  The modern rue Soufflot is thought to be the location of Lutetia’s Roman Forum.

Day 2 includes touring a number of the area’s stunning gardens as well as experiencing some of the area’s historical structures and monuments.

The Latin Quarter

Begin your day by touring the Latin Quarter, namely the Jardin des Plantes. With almost 2.5 hectares of French Gardens to explore, this 400-year-old park is France’s major botanical garden.

While you’re here, you might also want to check out one of the park’s museums, such as the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution. I recommend spending at least 3 to 4 hours here to view and uncover Paris’s hidden treasures.

Les Arènes de Lutèce

After seeing Jarden des Plantes, take a 700-meter stroll to Les Arènes de Lutèce. It is a theatre built in the first century AD where people came to see gladiatorial combats. 

You may go to Les Arènes de Lutèce for free and view where the performers used to stand, as well as the stage platform and lapidary components. I spent two hours on my journey here, and it was well worth it!

Rue Mouffetard

Keep going to Rue Mouffetard, which is about 550 meters away from Arènes de Lutèce.  Rue Mouffetard is located in one of Paris’s oldest and liveliest areas and is a terrific destination for lunch. I recommend that you spend at least 3-4 hours of your trip here.

Lunch should be had in Place de la Contrescarpe, a plaza on Rue Mouffetard.  Pick your favorite patio for lunch and people-watch.

The Panthéon

After eating at Place de la Contrescarpe, walk 650 meters to the Panthéon in Paris. This neoclassical-style edifice is now a mausoleum dedicated to France’s most renowned inhabitants, where you may see people’s tombs.

To honor this feat, a copy of the famed pendulum is still hanging from the dome. I recommend that you spend 2-3 hours of your trip here.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

After visiting the Panthéon, proceed to Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Saint-Germain-des-Prés serves as one of Paris’s most affluent areas for cocktails and supper. The tourism sector has altered Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Instead of tiny bookstores and cafés, the neighborhood is now dominated by first-class hotels, luxury shops, and contemporary art galleries.

Nonetheless, the neighborhood is a beautiful place to explore and a great place for supper and drinks.

Finish your day with dinner at Deux Magots. Founded just a couple of years prior the Café de Flore, Deux Magots is an additional Parisian institution that is an integral part of the Saint-Germain-Des-Prés character.

Aside from a huge cuisine and a great selection of drinks, its best feature is unquestionably its view of the Saint-Germain-Des-Prés Abbey.

Day 3: The Eiffel Tower and Nearby Attractions

This is undoubtedly the day that is likely to be the most enjoyable of the five days you will spend in Paris. You’ll begin with a boom at the Eiffel Tower, then see it from every angle from the Champ de Mars through the Trocadero.

You will then go to the Arc de Triomphe and stroll down the Champs-Elysées until the way to Place de la Concorde as well as the beautiful Tuileries Garden.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is Paris’ most famous landmark. The tower, which was erected for the World Expo, reaches 324 meters tall and was France’s tallest skyscraper until 2004. At 276 meters, it still retains the standings for Europe’s tallest man-made observation deck.

A visit to the first and second levels should take at least 90 minutes, while a visit to the top should take at least 2 hours. Your visit time will also be determined by whether you take the lift or the steps to the second floor.

Champ de Mars

Champ de Mars Park, located near to the École Militaire, was established in 1780. Tourists and locals alike enjoy it and go there on weekends and special occasions – it’s ideal for picnics and provides spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. And it’s completely free!

I propose that you spend at least two hours enjoying the scenery and relaxing throughout your stay.

Le Cafe de Mars is one of the greatest eateries in the Champ de Mars area. The personnel was quite kind, the food was wonderful, and the atmosphere was genuine. Prices were fair, and the quality was excellent!

Trocadero

In case you were wondering, today is focused on the views. Following your admiration of the Eiffel Tower from Champ de Mars, proceed to Trocadéro for even greater views.

This 30-45-minute stroll through the Trocadéro, involving a detour to the Avenue de Camoens and also across the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, will take you through the Trocadéro. However, I recommend that you spend at least 1-2 hours admiring the splendor.

Tip: Head to the Trocadero for sunrise if you can drag yourself out of bed. There is virtually no one around, so you will get amazing photographs with no one in the way.

Place de la Concorde

It is the site of executions during the French Revolution, including those of King Louis XVI and his wife, Queen Marie Antoinette.

Because the Place de la Concorde in Paris is a public square, there are no set hours of operation. That implies the Place de la Concorde is accessible from sunrise to evening, and you may spend the entire day there. I recommend that you spend at least 2-3 hours here.

Tuileries Garden

You may sit near the fountain or in the shade of the trees. You may also marvel at the flawless symmetry created by landscaper André Le Nôtre in the 17th century.

The Tuileries Garden’s hours of operation change from season to season. Remember to double-check them before you arrive. All year long, admission is free. This garden is advised to be visited for 1-2 hours.

Finish your day with dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, Le Dali. Alain Ducasse’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Dali. And, while the flies are understandably few these days, the lamb is still delicious.

Day 4: Exploring 9th Arrondissement and Montmartre

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a neighborhood café in the 9th Arrondissement. There are plenty of wonderful alternatives throughout the busy streets.

Palais Garnier

Begin your journey by going to the magnificent Palais Garnier opera theatre. Take a guided tour to learn about the interesting history of the city and view its gorgeous architecture.

Guided tours run roughly 90 minutes, but I recommend allowing at least 2 hours of your time for travel and preparation.

Galeries Lafayette

Take a stroll to Galeries Lafayette, a well-known department store famed for its magnificent interior design and a broad assortment of high-end clothes.

Explore the many floors and go shopping or simply admire the gorgeous displays. Allow at least 2 hours for your visit.

Rue des Martyrs

Take a stroll or a taxi to Rue des Martyrs, a gorgeous street dotted with specialty food shops, bakeries, and quaint boutiques.

Grab a short lunch at a neighborhood restaurant like La boulangerie verte or 228 Litres and experience the flavors of French cuisine.

Basilica of Sacré-Coeur

Take the subway or a leisurely stroll to Montmartre, the 18th Arrondissement’s bustling and artistic quarter.

Begin your Montmartre tour with the Basilica of Sacré-Coeur. Climb the phases to the top of the hill and gaze out across Paris from the basilica’s terrace. You should spend at least 90 minutes of your journey here.

Place du Tertre

Explore Montmartre’s picturesque streets, which are recognized for their bohemian vibe and creative past. Consider getting your portrait painted at Place du Tertre, where local artists show their works.

This square is located halfway up the Montmartre hill, separating the Pigalle district at the bottom along with the Sacre Coeur Basilica at the very top. You should spend at least 2 hours here.

Moulin Rouge

Take a guided tour of the legendary cabaret, Moulin Rouge, to learn more about its colorful history and theatrical acts. I recommend that you spend at least 90 minutes here.

You will be able to experience the outstanding Féerie revue, which has 80 performers and 60 dancers dressed in feathers and sequins and performing in a lavish bright glittering environment.

Montmartre Street

In Montmartre, enjoy a typical French meal in Apero Square. Classic foods should be complemented with a glass of local wine.

Visit one of the numerous pubs or jazz clubs in the vicinity to experience Montmartre’s bustling nightlife. Sip a drink or a glass of absinthe while listening to live music.

End your day by strolling around Montmartre’s lit streets, soaking in the romantic atmosphere of this charming area.

Day 5: The Île de la Cité and the Right Bank

The Île de la Cité and the Right Bank are two classic Parisian neighborhoods with a rich history, culture, and gorgeous architecture. This itinerary for the fifth day will take you through the attractions of these regions, allowing you to appreciate the city’s charm and beauty.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Begin your day at the historic center of Paris, Île de la Cité. Start with a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral, a work of art in architecture.

Admire its spectacular Gothic style, tour the inside, and climb to the top for panoramic city views. I recommend that you spend 1-2 hours of your stay here.

Sainte-Chapelle

After seeing Notre Dame, stroll a short distance to Sainte-Chapelle. This magnificent medieval chapel is famous for its spectacular stained glass windows depicting biblical stories. Spend 2 hours inside gazing at the beautiful craftsmanship and light play.

Conciergerie

Visit the Conciergerie, which is just a few meters away from Sainte-Chapelle. During the French Revolution, this old royal mansion turned jail played an important role.

Take a guided tour to learn about the jail’s history and to visit the maintained prison cells. It is advised that you spend at least 2-3 hours here.

Take a stop and dine at one of the wonderful cafés or restaurants around Île de la Cité. At Brasserie Les Deux Palais, enjoy delectable French and European food while taking in the city’s ambiance.

Louvre Museum

Cross the Seine to the Right Bank and see the Louvre Museum, among of the world’s most famous art museums.

Spend a few hours wandering through the extensive collection of art and historical relics, which includes renowned masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.

Palais-Royal

After you’ve had your fill of art, visit the neighboring Palais-Royal. This exquisite castle is famed for its lovely grounds and the eye-catching art work Les Deux Plateaux.

Take a stroll around the gardens and marvel at the juxtaposition of modern art and traditional architecture. I recommend setting up 2-3 hours for this.

Walk to the neighboring Place Vendôme to continue your research. This prominent area is known for its high-end retailers and the Vendôme Column.

Admire the architecture’s magnificence and go window shopping at luxurious clothing businesses.

Seine

Take a stroll along the Seine’s beautiful riverbanks. Take in the sights of the city’s architecture and lit bridges.

Consider taking a nocturnal Seine cruise. These cruises provide a unique view of the city, with breathtaking vistas of lighted monuments.

Some cruises even feature dinner and live music, creating an unforgettable romantic experience.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris has a wide selection of lodging alternatives to suit all tastes and budgets. The air-conditioned rooms at Hôtel La Canopée have a garden, free WiFi, and a patio. The starting price is $286.97.