What to see in Paris in 5 days

We start the trip in the heart of the city, where Paris was founded as a Roman settlement. It’s a perfect day for finding our way around the island and understanding its history.

The river island is at the heart of the history of the French capital.

The Grand Dame of Paris is a masterpiece of European Gothic style which began in the twelfth century. Its façade is a visual treatise on medieval theology. We tell you more in our post: Guide to visit Notre Dame Cathedral, opening hours, tickets and activities.

From here, we have to walk for less than 5 minutes to the next point on the route.

Built to house royal relics, it features 13th-century stained-glass windows that use the light to create a Biblical narrative.

We crossed the bridge into the Latin Quarter.

A journey that connects art, power and urbanism. Two options: one indoors and one outdoors. Let's see how.

Former royal palace and now one of the most influential museums in the world, the Louvre Museum reflects centuries of French history.

Leaving frontally for direct access to the Tuileries Garden, limited by Rue Rivoli and the River Seine. Here you can have a picnic and eat calmly before continuing with your itinerary.

Designed in the 16th century, this garden connects the Louvre with the Place de la Concorde. It is the perfect place to understand classic Parisian urban design and relax among its monuments, flora and this great atmosphere. Famous for its pond and surrounding chairs, perfect for taking a break. Many Parisians go there to read, bask in the sun or just to be in the moment.

We should now walk towards the River Seine.

Your first evening contact with the city can begin at sunset from the river with a different perspective.

Seine stroll

Strolling along the River Seine allows you to see Paris from its natural perspective, with its historic bridges and monumental facades. Take this chance to book a cruise or be amazed by the light show in this part of the city.

Today we discover the most creative and rebellious side of the city. For many years this district has been one of the most popular in Paris.

To learn more about this area, we recommend you see our specific guide in post What to see in Montmartre. You will love this district. Make yourself a second breakfast in one of the spectacular bakeries and lose yourself in its streets.

The Basilica dominates Paris from the hill of Montmartre and is a symbol of spirituality after the Paris Commune.

You can then head for the Place du Tertre. This small town was a meeting point for artists such as Picasso or Utrillo. Today it still retains the creative spirit that defines the personality of Montmartre. It is surrounded by restaurants with a Parisian essence, with a table and two outdoor chairs in pure French style where you can stop for lunch.

Start the afternoon with a walk in one of the most refined areas in the city, with its monumental architecture, classical facades and sophisticated ambience.

The finest example of eclectic 19th-century architecture, a reflection of the Paris of Haussmann. The interior reflects the taste and opulence of the French Second Empire. It’s a place where a lot of people pass by, but it’s also worth a visit.

Take a walk around the boulevards and mix with the local people.

Historic district popular for Parisian nightlife with cabaret and bohemian lifestyle. The streets are vibrant with lights, music and cafés that invite you to explore the most daring and authentic Paris.

The day for the major icons recognizable throughout the world, which make Paris one of the capital cities best known for its greatness on all levels.

Built for the Universal Exhibition in 1889, the Eiffel Tower went from being criticised to becoming a national symbol. If you arrive just in time to see Paris at sunset, it would be an unforgettable experience and you would enjoy one of the best views of Paris when night falls. We recommend you get tickets here before going.

On a nice day, we recommend you enjoy a picnic in the gardens and then head for the Trocadéro to immortalise the moment.

Enjoy the glamor of Paris visiting the most iconic shops, terraces and monuments and along the grand avenue.

Commissioned by Napoleon, it is a credit to the French armies. Impressive and full of history, the Arc de Triomphe dominates the Place de la Estrella as a symbol of Paris. The terrace allows panoramic views of the Champs Élysées and the city, while also admiring the grandeur of the architecture and centuries of history.

We walk down the avenue again. IF you’ve got your eye on something, now’s the time to take it with you.

A relaxed way to see the monuments lit up. Admire the reflection of the lights in the water and discover a unique perspective on a Paris that combines history, architecture and romanticism.

History, universities and intellectual life. A full day at your own pace to explore every corner of the island.

Extend this area with What to see in the Marais. If you know this district or if you prefer to modify the route, we recommend you visit another well-known district and have a look at What to see in Montparnasse.

This is the oldest square in Paris, carefully designed and an example of the aristocratic urban design of the 17th century. A frequent location for filming, its central fountain attracts all the attention as Parisians stroll under the arcades full of cafes and shops.

And now we'll head for the Latin Quarter.

Traditionally associated with universities and thinkers, the Latin Quarter combines historical bookstores, lively streets and a very authentic atmosphere. I would like to let you read this post so you know what you are getting into: Explore the Latin Quarter. 

Civilian mausoleum honoring key figures in French history. Its stunning architecture and majestic dome make it a symbol of the country’s cultural heritage, while its interior is home to characters who have defined history and the arts.
Walk towards Saint-Germain.

Intellectual epicenter of the twentieth century linked to philosophers and writers. Its streets are full of historical cafés and iconic bookstores where you can breathe creativity, culture and a bohemian atmosphere that have made the district a benchmark for the most authentic Paris.

We end the trip with contrasts. If that’s too much, you set the pace and can change it at any time.

In the morning, Versailles is savored with a special light that enhances the majesty of the palace and gardens. We recommend you read more about What to see in Versailles.

Palace of Versailles

An absolute symbol of French royal power and absolutism. In addition to touring its rooms, if the weather is good, you can also stroll between fountains and perfectly designed avenues and discover all the history in a much more peaceful setting.

Get ready for the return by RER to Paris.

If you still have any energy, we would like to suggest a quiet walk in a pleasant part of the city very different from the historic centre. More ideas in What to see in La Defense.

Grand Arch

A contemporary interpretation of the history of Paris. Between skyscrapers, open squares and works of urban art, it is the perfect place for a walk, shopping or enjoying a break in the open air.

After a day of contrasts, take the metro back to the city centre.

Last free walk to visit your favorite corner of the island and savor a last dinner to take home unforgettable memories of your getaway break in Paris.

If you are going to Paris as a couple and want experiences that guarantee unforgettable moments, we recommend you see more ideas like the ones we give you in our section A romantic getaway break in Paris or this Relaxing experience with your partner in Paris.