5 Days in Paris France: A First-Timers Itinerary

For the bigger picture and full context, make sure you read our main guide on Your 4 Day Paris Itinerary: See the Best City.
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Spending 5 days in Paris, France, offers a sweet spot between a whirlwind tour and a leisurely immersion. But with so much to see, how do you prioritize and avoid tourist traps? This guide provides a focused itinerary for first-timers, balancing iconic landmarks with local experiences.
At a glance:

• Craft a balanced 5-day Paris itinerary covering major landmarks, art, and local experiences.
• Decide if a Paris Pass is right for you to save time and money.
• Learn practical tips for transportation, best times to visit, and staying safe.
• Discover alternative activities for rainy days or unique interests.
• Get instant answers to common questions about planning your trip.

Building Your Perfect Paris Itinerary: Key Considerations

A 5-day stay buys you the luxury of a slower pace, but strategic planning is still essential. Unlike a shorter trip, you can afford to delve deeper into specific interests – whether that’s art, history, food, or simply soaking up the Parisian atmosphere. Let’s consider a framework to get you started.

• Interests & Priorities: What are your must-see attractions? Are you a museum buff, a history enthusiast, or a foodie? Tailor your itinerary accordingly.
• Pace: Do you prefer a jam-packed schedule or a more relaxed approach? Don’t try to cram everything in; leave room for spontaneous discoveries.
• Budget: Paris can be expensive. Factor in accommodation, food, transportation, and entrance fees.
• Season: Consider the weather and crowds. Spring and fall offer a good balance.
• Mobility: Paris is a walkable city, but public transport is essential. Consider your fitness level when planning your daily routes.

Day 1: Parisian Icons and Grandeur

Start your Parisian adventure with its most famous landmarks.

1. Eiffel Tower (Morning): Pre-book your tickets online to avoid long queues. Consider taking the stairs to the second level for a unique experience and then the elevator to the summit. Allocate at least 2-3 hours.
2. Champ de Mars & Trocadero Gardens (Mid-morning): Capture iconic photos of the Eiffel Tower. The Trocadero Gardens offer stunning views.
3. Les Invalides (Afternoon): Marvel at Napoleon’s tomb and explore the Army Museum. Allow 2-3 hours.
4. Luxembourg Gardens (Late Afternoon): Relax in the beautiful gardens, a favorite spot for locals.
5. Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Latin Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse restaurants.
   Example: A family traveling with children might spend more time in Luxembourg Gardens, enjoying the playground and puppet shows.

Day 2: Art, History, and Grand Avenues

Immerse yourself in Parisian art and history.

1. Louvre Museum (Morning): Focus on key highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. Pre-book tickets or use a Paris Pass to skip the line. Allocate at least 3-4 hours.
2. Musée d’Orsay (Afternoon): Explore Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in a stunning former railway station. Skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended. Allow 2-3 hours.
3. Place de la Concorde (Late Afternoon): Admire the Egyptian obelisk and fountains in this historical square.
4. Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe (Evening): Walk down the famous avenue to the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Paris. Consider a romantic evening stroll.
   Example: An art enthusiast might spend an entire day at the Louvre, focusing on specific collections or artists.

Day 3: Island Charms and Artistic Heights

Explore Île de la Cité and the artistic hilltop of Montmartre.

1. Île de la Cité (Morning): Visit Sainte-Chapelle for its breathtaking stained glass windows (skip-the-line tickets recommended) and the Conciergerie, a former royal palace and prison.
2. Notre-Dame Cathedral (Exterior View): While the cathedral is currently closed for restoration, admire its façade and significance.
3. Montmartre (Afternoon): Explore the artistic neighborhood, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica (free entry), and stroll through Place du Tertre, where artists create and sell their work.
4. Vignes du Clos Montmartre (Late Afternoon): View the vineyard from the street.
   Example: A history buff might dedicate more time to the Conciergerie, learning about its role in the French Revolution.

Day 4: Versailles or Deep Dive into Parisian Culture

This day offers two main options: a day trip to the Palace of Versailles or exploring other unique aspects of Paris.
Option 1: Palace of Versailles (Full Day):

• Take a train from Paris (approx. €7 return).
• Explore the palace, gardens, and Marie Antoinette’s estate (Trianon).
• Skip-the-line tickets and guided tours are highly recommended.
• Allocate a full day for this excursion.
  Option 2: Alternative Parisian Experiences:
• Pere Lachaise Cemetery: Visit the final resting place of famous figures like Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde.
• Museum of Shoah: A poignant museum dedicated to the history of the Holocaust in France.
• Paris Sewer Museum: An unusual but fascinating look at the city’s underground infrastructure.
• Shopping in Le Marais: Explore unique boutiques and historic architecture.
  Decision Point: Do you want to see the grandeur of Versailles or discover lesser-known Parisian gems? The Palace of Versailles is a full-day commitment, so consider your time and interests.

Day 5: Hidden Gems and Farewell Views

Use your final day to explore hidden gems, revisit favorite spots, or simply soak up the Parisian atmosphere.

1. Seine River Cruise (Morning): Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Seine River, offering a different perspective of the city’s landmarks (included in the Paris Pass).
2. Shakespeare and Company Bookstore (Afternoon): Browse the shelves of this iconic English-language bookstore.
3. Rue Cler Market (Afternoon): Experience a traditional Parisian market with fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.
4. Musée National d’Art Modern (Afternoon): Explore the modern and contemporary art museum.
5. Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a final Parisian meal at a restaurant with a view, reflecting on your trip.
   Alternative: If it’s raining, explore covered passages like Galerie Vivienne or browse the shops in Le Bon Marché department store. You could also take a free wine-tasting class (Les Caves du Louvre).

Paris Pass: To Buy or Not To Buy?

The Paris Pass can be a worthwhile investment, but it depends on your itinerary and travel style. Plan your Paris trip and then determine if the pass will save you money and time.
Benefits:

• Free entry to over 60 museums and monuments, including the Louvre and Versailles.
• Skip-the-line access to popular attractions.
• Free transportation on the metro and buses.
• Seine River cruise included.
• Discounts on other attractions.
  Considerations:
• Cost: The pass can be expensive, so calculate if you’ll use it enough to justify the price.
• Time constraints: To maximize the pass’s value, you need to visit multiple attractions each day.
• Interests: If you’re not interested in many museums or monuments, the pass may not be worth it.
  Decision Tree:

1. Create a list of attractions you want to visit.
2. Calculate the cost of individual tickets plus transportation.
3. Compare the total cost with the price of the Paris Pass.
4. Factor in the convenience of skip-the-line access.
5. Decide if the Paris Pass is right for you based on your budget, interests, and time constraints.

Practical Playbook: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Trip

• Transportation: The Paris Metro is efficient and affordable. Purchase a “Paris Visite” travel pass for unlimited travel within zones 1-3.
• Accommodation: Choose accommodation in central arrondissements (e.g., 3rd, 4th, 6th, 7th) for easy access to attractions.
• Safety: Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant.
• Language: Learn a few basic French phrases; Parisians appreciate the effort.
• Food: Explore local markets and bakeries for authentic Parisian cuisine. Try a croissant, pain au chocolat, or macarons. Rue Cler offers a variety of options.
• Walking Shoes: Pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Book in advance: Book your accomodations, museum tickets, and popular tours in advance, especially during peak season.

Quick Answers: Common Questions About Visiting Paris

Q: What’s the best time to visit Paris?
A: Spring (March-May) and fall (mid-September-November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Q: How do I get from the airport to the city center?
A: From Charles de Gaulle (CDG), take the RER B train (€11.40, 35 minutes). From Orly (ORY), take the RER C train (€6.40, 35 minutes).
Q: Is Paris expensive?
A: Yes, Paris can be expensive. Plan your budget accordingly and consider affordable options like picnics and free activities.
Q: Do I need to speak French?
A: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases will enhance your experience.
Q: Is Paris safe?
A: Paris is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Enjoy the Magic

Five days in Paris allows you to scratch beneath the surface and truly experience the city. Prioritize your interests, plan strategically, and leave room for spontaneity. Bon voyage!