Your Ultimate 5-Day Iconic Paris Itinerary

This comprehensive 5-day itinerary is your guide to experiencing the most iconic landmarks, navigating the city with ease, understanding potential costs, indulging in delectable Parisian cuisine with detailed descriptions, and even mastering a few essential French phrases for your dining adventures.


Getting Around Paris

Metro: Your most efficient mode of transport. Opt for a Navigo Découverte pass (weekly, requires a photo) for longer stays or purchase individual tickets/carnets (packs of 10). Download the indispensable RATP (Paris public transport) app for route planning and real-time updates.
Bus: Offers a more scenic route but can be slower due to traffic. Utilize the RATP app for bus routes as well.
Walking: Paris is incredibly walkable, especially between central attractions. Embrace the opportunity to discover hidden gems on foot.
Batobus: A convenient hop-on, hop-off boat service along the Seine River, providing unique perspectives of the city’s landmarks.
Taxis & Ride-sharing: Easily available but generally more expensive than public transport.


Basic French Phrases for Dining

Bonjour Madame/Monsieur: Good day, Madam/Sir (used upon entering).
Bonsoir Madame/Monsieur: Good evening, Madam/Sir (used in the evening).
Une table pour [nombre], s’il vous plaît: A table for [number], please.
La carte, s’il vous plaît: The menu, please.
Je voudrais commander…: I would like to order…
…un/une [nom du plat]: …a [name of the dish].
Comme entrée: As a starter.
Comme plat principal: As a main course.
Comme dessert: For dessert.
De l’eau, s’il vous plaît: Some water, please.
Du vin rouge/blanc/rosé, s’il vous plaît: Some red/white/rosé wine, please.
Une bière, s’il vous plaît: A beer, please.
C’est délicieux!: It’s delicious!
L’addition, s’il vous plaît: The bill, please.
Merci: Thank you.
Au revoir: Goodbye.
Excusez-moi: Excuse me.

Day 1: Eiffel Tower and the Champs de Elysee

Morning (9:00 AM): Eiffel Tower: Ascend this iconic symbol of Paris for breathtaking panoramic views.
How to get there: Metro lines 6 (Bir-Hakeim), 9 (Trocadéro), or RER C (Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel).
Best time to visit: Arrive early to beat the crowds. Pre-book your tickets online for a specific time slot.
Cost: Lift tickets to the top range from €17.10 to €26.80 (depending on age and level). Stairs to the 2nd floor are a more budget-friendly option.
Activity: Allow 2-3 hours to ascend, enjoy the views, and explore the different levels.


Lunch (12:00 PM): Fuel up at a local eatery near the Eiffel Tower or in the Bir-Hakeim area.
Le Café de Mars: (Traditional French bistro) – Indulge in classic bistro fare such as steak frites, confit de canard, and seasonal French specialties. (€15-€25) – https://www.lecafedemars.fr/
Le Petit Rétro: (Charming, old-fashioned bistro) – Experience the charm of an authentic, old-school bistro serving hearty and traditional French dishes. (€18-€28) – https://www.lepetitretro.fr/
Frame Brasserie (Pullman Eiffel Tower Hotel): (More upscale with potential Eiffel Tower views) – Enjoy a more refined brasserie experience with contemporary French cuisine, often featuring seasonal ingredients and creative presentations. Look for their lunch menus. (€25-€40) – https://www.frame-brasserie.com/fr/


Afternoon (2:00 PM): Trocadéro Gardens & Views: Head across the Pont d’Iéna for the most iconic photo opportunity of the Eiffel Tower.
How to get there: Walk from Champ de Mars or take Metro line 9 to Trocadéro.
Best time to visit: Mid-afternoon offers excellent light for photos.
Cost: Free.
Activity: Admire the stunning view, explore the Trocadéro Gardens, and enjoy the atmosphere.


Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe: Stroll down the world-famous avenue towards the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
How to get there: Walk from Trocadéro (approx. 20-30 minutes) or take Metro line 9 (Franklin D. Roosevelt or George V).
Best time to visit: Late afternoon offers a pleasant walking experience.
Cost: Free to walk the avenue. To ascend to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views: €13.
Activity: Window shop at luxury boutiques and consider climbing the Arc de Triomphe for another perspective of the city.


Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Dinner and a Romantic Seine River Cruise.
Dinner: Choose from a variety of dining options near the Champs-Élysées or venture into the charming Le Marais district.
Le Georges (Centre Pompidou – for views): (Modern French, upscale with panoramic views) – Indulge in elegant and innovative modern French cuisine while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. (€40+) – https://restaurantgeorges.com/en/
L’Avenue (Avenue Montaigne – chic): (Trendy Parisian café-restaurant) – Experience the chic Parisian lifestyle at this trendy spot offering a mix of classic French dishes and international influences. (€35+) – https://www.avenue-restaurant.com/en/
Robert et Louise (Le Marais – traditional, lively): (Authentic French, known for its fireplace grill) – Enjoy a rustic and flavorful dining experience with authentic French cuisine grilled over a large open fireplace. (€25-€35) – https://www.robertetlouise.com/
Seine River Cruise: Conclude your day with a romantic cruise along the Seine, offering illuminated views of Paris’s iconic landmarks. Numerous companies like Bateaux Mouches and Batobus offer evening cruises (prices range from €15-€25 for a standard cruise). Dinner cruises are also available but require advance booking.


Day 2: Louvre Masterpieces & Jardin des Tuileries

Morning (9:00 AM): Louvre Museum: Immerse yourself in art history at the world-renowned Louvre Museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.
How to get there: Metro lines 1 or 7 (Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre).
Best time to visit: Arrive before the opening or consider a Wednesday or Friday evening visit for extended hours. Booking tickets online well in advance is highly recommended!
Cost: €17.
Activity: Focus on key wings and masterpieces to make the most of your visit, as the museum is vast. Allow at least 3-4 hours.

Lunch (1:00 PM): Refuel after your Louvre exploration at one of the nearby cafes.
Le Fumoir: (Elegant café with literary connections) – Enjoy a refined lunch in this elegant café known for its literary history, offering a menu of French and international dishes. (€20-€35) – https://www.lefumoir.fr/en/
Café Richelieu (Louvre Museum): (Conveniently located inside the museum, offering views) – Grab a quick bite with sandwiches, salads, and light meals within the Denon wing of the Louvre. (€10-€20) – (Search “Café Richelieu Louvre”)
Angelina (Rivoli – famous for hot chocolate): (Iconic tea house and restaurant) – Indulge in the famous African hot chocolate or enjoy classic French breakfast and lunch dishes at this iconic establishment. (€25-€40) – https://www.angelina-paris.fr/en/

Afternoon (2:30 PM): Jardin des Tuileries & Place de la Concorde: Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Tuileries Garden connecting the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde.
How to get there: The gardens are directly adjacent to the Louvre.
Best time to visit: Any time during daylight hours.
Cost: Free.
Activity: Admire the sculptures, fountains, and manicured lawns as you walk towards the Place de la Concorde with its impressive Obelisk of Luxor.


Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Musée d’Orsay: Discover the stunning collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art housed in a former railway station.
How to get there: Walk across the Pont Royal from the Tuileries Garden (approx. 15 minutes) or take RER C (Musée d’Orsay).
Best time to visit: Late afternoon often sees fewer crowds. Booking tickets online is recommended.
Cost: €16.
Activity: Marvel at masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and other renowned artists.


Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Dinner in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.
How to get there: Walk from Musée d’Orsay (approx. 10-15 minutes) or take Metro line 12 (Solférino) to a nearby station.
Activity: Enjoy dinner in this vibrant neighborhood known for its literary cafés and lively atmosphere.
Les Deux Magots: (Historic literary café, classic French dishes) – Dine in this iconic café that once hosted literary giants, enjoying classic French brasserie fare. (€25-€40) – https://lesdeuxmagots.fr/en/
Brasserie Lipp: (Traditional Alsatian brasserie, a Parisian institution) – Experience a taste of Alsace in Paris at this traditional brasserie known for its hearty Alsatian specialties. (€30-€50) – https://www.lipp.fr/en/
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: (Famous for its steak frites with secret sauce – no reservations) – Indulge in their legendary single-course menu of perfectly cooked steak frites with their secret herbed butter sauce. (€27 approx.) – https://relaisentrecote.fr/ (Choose the Saint-Germain location)


Day 3: Notre Dame, Latin Quarter Charm & Pantheon

Morning (9:30 AM): Île de la Cité & Notre Dame Cathedral (Exterior): Explore the historical heart of Paris.
How to get there: Metro line 4 (Cité).
Best time to visit: Morning for fewer crowds around the island.
Cost: Free to view the exterior. Interior reconstruction is ongoing.
Activity: Admire the facade of Notre Dame Cathedral, walk around its perimeter, and visit the Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation (free).

Late Morning (11:00 AM): Sainte-Chapelle: Witness the breathtaking beauty of this royal chapel’s stained-glass windows.
How to get there: Within a short walk from Notre Dame on Île de la Cité.
Best time to visit: Book tickets online in advance to secure a time slot.
Cost: €11.50 (combined ticket with the Conciergerie is also available).
Activity: Marvel at the stunning light filtering through the 13th-century glass.


Lunch (1:00 PM): Enjoy the lively atmosphere and diverse culinary options in the Latin Quarter:
Le Bouillon Chartier: (Historic and very affordable traditional French bouillon) – Experience a step back in time at this historic “bouillon” serving very affordable and classic French dishes. (€10-€15) – https://www.bouillon-chartier.com/en/
Crêperie Saint-Michel: (Numerous crêperies in this area, this is a popular one) – Grab a delicious and quick bite at one of the many crêperies, offering a wide variety of sweet and savory options. (€5-€12) – (Often individual crêperies don’t have extensive websites, look for reviews and menus online).
Le Polidor: (Traditional bistro with a literary history) – Dine in this charming traditional bistro with a rich literary past, serving classic French dishes in a cozy setting. (€18-€28) – https://www.lepolidor.com/


Afternoon (2:30 PM): Sorbonne University & Panthéon: Explore the historic Sorbonne University (exterior) and visit the final resting place of prominent French figures.
How to get there: Walk through the Latin Quarter.
Best time to visit: Mid-afternoon.
Cost: Panthéon: €11.50.
Activity: Admire the architecture and learn about French history.


Late Afternoon (4:30 PM): Luxembourg Gardens: Relax and enjoy the beauty of these expansive gardens.
How to get there: Walk from the Panthéon (approx. 10 minutes).
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for a peaceful stroll.
Cost: Free.
Activity: Wander through the gardens, relax by the Medici Fountain, or perhaps catch a puppet show.


Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Dinner in the vibrant Latin Quarter.
Activity: Explore the numerous dining options, from cozy bistros to international cuisine.
La Truffière: (Elegant restaurant specializing in truffle dishes) – Indulge in a refined dining experience centered around the exquisite flavor of truffles. (€35+) – http://www.latruffiere.fr/en/
Le Coupe-Chou: (Romantic, atmospheric restaurant in a former medieval building) – Enjoy a romantic dinner in a unique setting with traditional French cuisine. (€25-€40) – https://www.lecoupechou.com/en/
Restaurant La Jacobine: (Cozy bistro known for its onion soup and traditional dishes) – Warm up with their famous onion soup and other classic French bistro fare in a cozy atmosphere. (€20-€30) – https://restaurant-la-jacobine.fr/


Day 4: Montmartre Charm & Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Morning (9:30 AM): Montmartre Exploration: Discover the artistic and bohemian charm of Montmartre.
How to get there: Metro line 2 (Anvers or Pigalle) or line 12 (Abbesses). Be prepared for uphill walking or take the funicular (€1.90 with a metro ticket).
Best time to visit: Morning to avoid the largest crowds.
Cost: Free to wander Montmartre.
Activity: Explore the charming streets, watch artists at work in Place du Tertre, and soak in the unique atmosphere.


Late Morning (11:00 AM): Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Visit the stunning white basilica perched atop Montmartre.
How to get there: Walk uphill from Place du Tertre or take the funicular.
Best time to visit: Mid-morning.
Cost: Free to enter the basilica. Access to the dome: €6.
Activity: Admire the basilica’s architecture and enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the parvis. Consider climbing to the dome for an even higher perspective.


Lunch (1:00 PM): Enjoy a meal in one of Montmartre’s many charming eateries.
Le Consulat: (Charming, historic restaurant on Place du Tertre) – Dine in this historic restaurant located in the heart of Montmartre, offering classic French dishes. (€20-€35) – (Often doesn’t have a dedicated extensive website, look for reviews and online menus).
La Crémaillère 1900: (Belle Époque restaurant with a whimsical interior) – Step back in time in this beautiful Belle Époque restaurant serving traditional French cuisine. (€25-€45) – https://www.lacremaillere1900.fr/en/
Le Café des Deux Moulins: (Famous from the movie “Amélie”) – Experience the ambiance of the famous café from “Amélie” and enjoy typical French café fare. (€12-€30) – https://cafedesdeuxmoulins.fr/en/


Afternoon (2:30 PM): Musée de Montmartre & Vineyards: Discover the history and art of Montmartre.
How to get there: Walk through Montmartre.
Best time to visit: Mid-afternoon.
Cost: Musée de Montmartre: €15.
Activity: Explore the museum housed in former artists’ residences and see the last remaining vineyards of Paris.


Late Afternoon (4:30 PM): Canal Saint-Martin: Explore this trendy canal area with its boutiques and relaxed atmosphere.
How to get there: Take Metro line 2 (Anvers) and change to line 5 (Jacques Bonsergent) or walk downhill (approx. 20-30 minutes).
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for a pleasant stroll.
Cost: Free to walk along the canal.
Activity: Wander along the canal, browse the shops, and soak in the hip Parisian vibe. Consider a boat tour on the canal.


Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Dinner near Canal Saint-Martin or in Le Marais.
Activity: Choose from a variety of trendy restaurants around the canal or take a short metro ride to the vibrant Le Marais district.
Le Perchoir (Rooftop Bar & Restaurant – Menilmontant): (Trendy with panoramic views, reservations highly recommended) – Enjoy modern and creative French cuisine with stunning panoramic views from this rooftop spot. (€30+) – https://leperchoir.fr/menilmontant/
Chez Adel: (Warm and welcoming bistro near Canal Saint-Martin) – Experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere with traditional French dishes. (€20-€30) – (Often smaller bistros don’t have extensive websites, look for reviews).
Breizh Café Le Marais: (Excellent crepes and cider in Le Marais) – Indulge in delicious artisanal crêpes and galettes from Brittany in the heart of Le Marais. (€15-€25+) – https://www.breizhcafe.com/en/ (Select the Le Marais location)


Day 5: Hidden Gems & Departure

Morning (9:30 AM): Le Marais District: Explore the historic and stylish Le Marais.
How to get there: Metro lines 1 (Saint-Paul), 8 (Chemin Vert), or 11 (Hôtel de Ville).
Best time to visit: Morning for a quieter experience.
Cost: Free to explore.
Activity: Wander through the charming streets, admire the architecture, visit Place des Vosges, and explore the Jewish Quarter.


Late Morning (11:00 AM): Musée Picasso: Discover the works of the legendary Pablo Picasso.
How to get there: Located in Le Marais.
Best time to visit: Book tickets online in advance.
Cost: €14.
Activity: Explore the extensive collection housed in a beautiful 17th-century mansion.


Lunch (1:00 PM): Savor your final Parisian lunch in Le Marais.
L’As du Fallafel: (Popular and bustling falafel stand/shop in the Jewish Quarter) – Enjoy a renowned and generously filled falafel sandwich. (€7-€10) – (Typically doesn’t have a formal website, easily found online).
Sacha Finkelsztajn (La Boutique Jaune): (Traditional Jewish bakery and deli with some seating for light lunch) – Sample traditional Jewish pastries, breads, and enjoy a light lunch at this iconic establishment. (€5-€15) – https://sachafinkelsztajn.com/
Le Loir dans la Théière: (Quirky and cozy tea salon with light lunch options) – Relax in this unique tea salon and enjoy homemade quiches, tarts, and other light lunch options. (€10-€18) – https://www.leloirdanslatheiere.com/


Afternoon (2:30 PM): Choose an activity based on your interests and departure schedule:
Shopping: Explore department stores like Galeries Lafayette or Printemps (Metro 7/9, Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette). Enjoy rooftop views.
Museum Visit: Consider the Musée Rodin (€14, Metro 13), Centre Pompidou (€14, Metro 11/1), or another museum that piques your interest.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A beautiful and less touristy park (Metro 7bis, Buttes Chaumont).
Catacombs of Paris: (Book far in advance, limited entry) An underground ossuary (€29, Metro 4/6/12/13, Denfert-Rochereau).


Evening: Depart from Paris or enjoy a final Parisian dinner depending on your travel plans. Consider revisiting a favorite neighborhood or choosing a restaurant near your accommodation or the airport.


Important Notes

Book in Advance: Absolutely crucial for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, and any special exhibitions.
Paris Museum Pass: If you plan on visiting many museums, the Paris Museum Pass can offer cost savings and skip-the-line access (for some).
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will be doing a significant amount of walking.
Be Aware of Pickpockets: Exercise caution, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Learn Basic French Phrases: Even a few simple phrases will be appreciated by locals.
Stay Flexible: This is a suggested itinerary; feel free to adjust it based on your personal interests and pace.


Enjoy your unforgettable adventure in the captivating city of Paris!