Visiting Paris for Five Days?
Louvre
Monday
Best Art History museum.
3 to 4 hours.
Eiffel Tower
Thursday
Climb to the third level of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy the view.
Orsay
Tuesday
Impressive Art museum.
3 hours.
Sainte Chapelle
Friday
Sainte Chapelle is emptier on Friday.
Located next to Notre Dame & Latin Quarter
Versailles
Wednesday
Best Palace museum.
Half to One Day.
Car Tour
Saturday
On Saturday, the streets of Paris are emptier and it is best to program a car tour.
Visiting Paris soon?
"Paris is always a good idea" - Audrey Hepburn, Sabrina
Adorned with astounding beauty, the city of Paris has a lot of to reveal.
In 2023, Paris still welcomes its guests with open arms. We want to show why our french culture is important and how to enjoy it, away from the hassle and the crowds.
Paris has many iconic sights. To see all the city's wonder in five day might seem impossible : The endless pieces of Art of the Louvre, the brassy culture of the Parisian locals and the breathtaking architecture of its houses and monuments.
Sure, we do not have time to see everything on a single trip but with the right guide, you can enjoy the city highlights that calls to your sensitivity and your taste in Art.
Tailor-made Paris itineraries?
There is no better way to see Paris than hiring a human tour guide. To make the most of your time, we have hire local guides in Paris, followed cultural mediator of national museums, gathered advice from books, local experts, travel journalists, professional tour guides and guide conferenciers, and external travel planners.
We present our finding in a form of a five-days plan to see all the good things for a first time visit.
Of course, this plan is not definitive. It can be adapted on request.
Best Time to Visit Paris, France
The best time for Americans to visit France is between June to August or September to October, both of which have their own pros and cons.
During the June to August season, the weather balances comfortably in the 70s, allowing you to enjoy your stay to the fullest. However, the perfect weather makes this season the epitome for tourism.
With that said, you can expect to see a significant increase in hotel and flight prices.
On the other hand, Americans visiting Paris during the September to October season will generally experience the opposite. The weather will hover between the 40s to 60s.
Although colder, tourist attractions will be far less crowded; this is, of course, with the exception of the last week in September during Paris’s Fashion Week. Otherwise, you’ll find hotel and flight prices to be far more reasonable.
Guided Tours in English
Planning guided tours for English-speaking visitors
With an egregious number of sight-seeing to do, it is best to plan ahead few guided tours to understand and appreciate the sights.
You do not need guided tours for everything, but some sites more than any others : The Louvre and Versailles must be visited with a guide.
Taking too many guided tours often leave us with the feeling rushed and utterly exhausted by the time it’s over.
My advice is to book the musts and then, depending on your budget, availability and interest, you can add a specialty tour.
What to do for 5 Days in Paris, France
With so many sights to see in such a small amount of time, we understand how tedious creating an itinerary can be for a first time visitor.
As such, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to create a 5 day list of things to do in Paris, France. So without further ado, let’s tour one of the greatest cities in the world!
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Day 1
Notre Dame, Ile de la Cité, Louvre Museum, Tuileries Garden, Place Vendôme, Opéra Garnier
Ile-de-la-Cité, an island centered between the waters of the Seine River, plays a strategically important role in medieval history. What was once the epicenter of the world’s greatest governmental and religious institutions, the gentle island of Ile-de-la-Cité is now nothing more than a surreal walk through Medieval history. Today, the island is home to some of the world's most cherished cafés, private mansions and gothic buildings, making it one of the best places to visit in Paris.
We will begin our journey here, eventually making our way to the right side of the river bank.
1| Notre Dame
Cathedral sightseeing
Speaking of beloved buildings, as I’m sure you’re already aware, the 860 year old cathedral of Notre Dame caught fire in April 2019. Engulfed by the flames, the cathedral’s one-of-a-kind spire and hand carved wooden roofs are forever destroyed; and although the building is stable, the cathedral will remain closed to the public until it is fully restored. However, you can still appreciate the cathedral's magnificent presence from the outside. With its beauteous rose windows and centuries worth of delicate facade artwork, Notre Dame is still a must-see for all new travelers.
2| Ile-de-la-Cite
Cutest streets
Other places worth visiting while at the car free Island of Ile-de-la-Cité include the following:
Located in front of Notre Dame, The Archaeological Crypt is built upon the remains of Lutetia; and of course, other remains now rest there.
From palace to prison, to the beheading of the late queen Marie Antionette, The Conciergerie is famous for being the French monarchy’s official place of death.
Sainte Chapelle is world renowned by historians and architects for its eclectic collection of 13th century stained glass windows.
Lastly, Pont Neuf is the oldest standing bridge in all of France.
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3| Louvre Museum
The world’s most famous museum,
The Louvre Museum is definitely one of the things to do in Paris. In fact, this building used to be a palace. With that in mind, it’s a massive building that can take days to tour. Since this is only a 5 day tour guide in Paris, if you wish to see everything on today’s itinerary, time at the Louvre must be limited to only two to three hours.
4| Tuilleries Garden
Gardens of the Louvre
Just a short walk from the Louvre Museum lies the delightful Tuileries Garden. Curated by Queen Catherine De Medici in 1564 for royals to stroll, the Tuileries Garden opened to the public nearly a century later. To this day, it is considered to be the best garden to visit in Paris.
5| Place Vendome
Luxury boutiques
From the Tuileries Garden, it’s an easy walk to one of the most beautiful squares in Paris: Place Vendome, quartered to the Vendome Column. In commemoration of the Battle of Austerlitz, this column was instructed by Napoleon I. This square is famous for world class stores and hotels, such as the Hotel Ritz.
6| Opera Garnier
Music and Architecture
To say that this building is a divine masterpiece would be a sincere understatement to its astounding beauty. This building was constructed during Emperor Napoleon III’s rule, making it a classic example of Neo-Baroque architecture. Found on the end of Avenue de l’Opera, you’ll find that it’s a very small walk to Palais Garnier from Place Vendome; and if you’d like to catch a Phantom of the Opera show, be sure to arrive by 5:30pm!
Day 2
Le Marais, Montmartre, Sacré Coeur
Winding it down, let’s begin day 2 of our 5 days in Paris with intrinsic discoveries. Instead of rushing to the next tourist stop, take the day to explore these tourist friendly neighborhoods in Paris.
1| Le Marais
Historical Preserved quarter of Paris
A place known for its quaint shops, adorable cafes, exquisite art galleries, and alluring mansions, Le Marais welcomes tourists with open arms. If you would like to tour galleries and museums, here is a list of museums near Le Marais, Paris:
In honor of contemporary art, Centre Georges Pompidou is the place to be.
Withholding over 5,000 pieces of his classic works, visit the beguiling mansion known as the Picasso Museum.
For history bluffs, the Carnavalet Museum focuses on art and history from the beginning of Paris, the christian and Parisian Jewish history, with a focus on the 16th and 17th century, with the inclusion of the French Revolution.
2| Montmartre
Cutest streets
Place du Tertre, one of the best plazas in Paris, is filled with incredible sights to see. Take the second half of the day to explore the streets, perhaps participating in a walking tour with other locals. Although hilly, it’s definitely worth the journey!
3| Sacré Coeur
Church on a hill
Built between 1873 and 1924, the dignified Sacré-Coeur Basilica is stalwarted to Christ’s Sacred Heart. Prior to the Eiffel tower, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica was the tallest building in Paris. At a staggering 83 meters high, the dome’s panoramic view makes it the best view of Paris. Bearing in mind, of course, that back then there were no elevators. As such, be prepared to climb 300 steps; but don’t worry, the leg cramps will quickly melt away the moment you see the full scope of Paris!
Day 3
The Latin Quarter, Panthéon, Luxembourg Gardens
In 52 BC, Cesar’s armies vanquished the city of Parissi. The Romans named their new settlement Lutetia. Although it’s now known for its university life in Paris, Roman-Paris Lutetia is an amazing area for tourists to “rome” freely.
1| The Latin Quarter
Origins of Paris
Start your day off by grabbing a bite to eat from a local cafe in the Latin Quarter, and enjoy the country’s rich culture amongst the fresh air. Once you’re ready to start touring, here are some tourist attractions in Paris near the Latin Quarter:
As one of the oldest botanicals in France, the 400 year old garden of Jarden Des Plantes is an extraordinary experience.
Just a short 700m walk from Jarden Des Plantes is the Les Arènes de Lutèce is a theatre. It was constructed in the 1st century AD for gladiatorial combat.
Closer than that lies the oldest neighborhood in Paris, Rue Mouffetard. Take a couple of hours to tour the streets markets and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
2| The Pantheon
Monument for the Heroes of France
Gracefully placed on the alluring hills of Montagne Sainte-Geneviève is the Panthéon in Paris. This piece of history is dedicated to some of France’s most famous historical figures such as Marie Curie, Louis Braille, Soufflot, Emile Zola, Rousseau, Jean Moulin, Victor Hugo, and Volataire. Not to mention, the building’s architecture is simply breathingly pulchritudinous.
3| Luxembourg Palace and Gardens
Most beautiful park of France
Inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, Queen Marie De Medici designed and constructed Luxembourg Gardens. The garden’s eccentric beauty makes the Luxembourg Gardens one of the most romantic places in Paris, France.
Day 4
Versailles Palace and Gardens
Crowned the jewel of France, visiting the Palace of Versailles is consequentially quintessential for all tourists. The Château de Versailles withholds an extraordinary beauty that cannot be accurately described. You have to see it for yourself !
1| The Palace
Historical Political Power of Paris
A wonderful extravagant palace with lots of character. Unique architecture and golden decoration, prepare yourself to travel to the intimate Royal apartments and his private office.
2| The preserved Gardens of Versailles
A true art work with gardening
The 800 hectare palace is located about 20km outside of Paris, so definitely be sure to make travel arrangements with the intention of spending the entire day here.
Day 5
Arc de Triomphe, Grand & Petit Palais, Alexander III Bridge, Orsay Museum, Eiffel Tower
Crowned the jewel of France, visiting the Palace of Versailles is consequentially quintessential for all tourists. The Château de Versailles withholds an extraordinary beauty that cannot be accurately described. You have to see it for yourself !
1| Arc De Triomphe
Monument of Napoleon
After 30 years of construction, the world famous monument was completed by 1836 in memory of the Frenchmen who fought during the Napoleonic wars. At the top of the monument, you’ll have a clear view of the Eiffel Tower and Champs Elysées.
2| Grand and Petit Palais
Two beautiful museums in the same time
From there Arc De Triomphe, find your way to Grand Palais and Petit Palais. This historic building doubles as an exhibition hall and museum. Moreover, the city’s Fine Art Museum of Paris is located just across the street.
3| Alexander III Bridge
One of the most beautiful bridges on Earth
Featuring Art Nouveau, cherubs, lamps, nymphs, and winged horses is the famous Alexander III bridge. The bridge connects the Champs Elysées quarter with the Eiffel Tower District, making it the most romantic bridge in Paris.
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4| Orsay Museum
Live the Art revolution !
What makes the Orsay Museum unique is its architecture and prior disposition. Originally a grand train station, this palace-like museum is now home to world renowned artworks of Van Gogh, Impressionists, and Gauguin.
5| Eiffel Tower
Say goodbye to the city from the summit
A marvelous monument calls for magical moments. Just before sunset, head over to the Eiffel tower and treat yourself to a sight that you’ll never forget. Into the bargain, consider finishing your 5 day stay in Paris with a boat tour down the Seine river.
Plan for a first visit?
How many days is enough to see Paris?
For a first visit, 5 to 7 days is the right amount of time to enjoy Paris without being in a rush or getting bored.
Central Quarter
Stay
Need for a private apartment with 2 rooms in the historical center?
Le Marais, Saint-Germain, Latin Quarter are also good options. They are movie set locations for the movie Midnight in Paris and Emily in Paris.
We help Art lovers explore Paris in 5 days, efficiently !
Can you make the most of Paris in only 5 days ?
Start by the 5 recommended experiences, on my 5 days plan.
You can enrich your trip later
with original tours and more in-depth visits.
Planning 5 days in Paris
Tourism professionals in Paris (Paris information center) can orient you to the bookings, the pricing and the tickets to help you.
Plans adapt depending on the month of your visit and the configuration: number of people, budget, number of days in Paris, places you want to visit...
Mix of tours
Find a special week with 7 different tour guides specialized in one subject only.
For example, hire a tour guide for the Louvre, one expert for the wine tasting, one chef for a food tour, one expert for the Opera Garnier, one for the street art in Montmartre etc...
**a mix of these different tours with a new special tour guide every day can a be a great idea**
See many perspectives and enjoy Paris from different angles with different people.
Some unique tour guide in Paris have developed tours, such as the medicine tour for a client.
We are able to find them for you.
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For example, for visits of the Opera Garnier of Paris, personally, I would seek the help of the tour guide who has keys and access to the Opera House and who can answer all your questions about the Opera Garnier.
Hiring a professional driver, who is always on-time, polite, clean and safe, is not very easy on internet.
The driver speaks English and French who will pick-you up at the arrival gates at the Airport and drive you to your Hotel safely?
The chauffeurs in Paris are usually helpful : He helps you with your luggage, provide you a wheelchair, he helps with a stroller or an infant seat and anything else you ask.
You can ask for a city car tour to see Paris landmarks on the route to any destination.
You can hire a travel companion, a local friendly Parisian, who speaks English and can orient you, take pictures of you and lead you in Paris.
She can come to the airport or to your hotel and pick you up. She keeps you company, leads you in the metro, show you the classic places...
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For B2B, you can hire a travel companion for your clients to represent your company values.
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I advise you to see the many platforms on internet for this. Check the license and the company ID before doing so.
Group Tour + Audiophones
Hire an exceptional Tour guide : experienced and bilingual, holder of a state-license for a group tour
Share the experience with other participants?
Ask for a grouped tour with a tour guide, holder of qualifications to guide you in the Louvre, d'Orsay, Versailles or exceptional places behind the scenes and far away from the crowds.
Museum Pass | Skip-the-Line Tickets
Buy skip-the-line tickets and museum passports
Avoid any confusion and ask for help from a tour guide :)
Museums Passports are sold by the city of Paris only.
Frequently utilized by the travel agencies for their clients, this service has been essential to access many different museums rapidly and enjoying more time in Paris instead of buying tickets for each museum individually.
Day trip in France
Hire a driver and we go on a roundtrip around Paris.
Hire a driver and go visit a region, enjoy the beautiful french country side, explore the area, get some tastings from the local food and wine. Then we go back to Paris.
Organize the trip with others sharing the same interests :
Meeting with nice people from different horizons, but sharing the same ideas could be a nice idea.
Ask to see the other participants profiles if this is okay with the clients and the company legal policy. Some companies organize small group travels (9 people max with the same interests)
Honey Moon in Paris
Are you planning a honey moon or a layover in Paris? Take some of my suggestions to surprise your partner.
I can plan a surprise with you for your partner such bringing roses, or maybe your partner loves a car tour in the city of Love?
Or maybe try our Gourmet Tour with pink Champagne, or natural wine & delicious cheese tasting along with Juliana to give up some of the secrets of french Food.
Share an unforgettable moment with your lover at like a couple of locals in a beautiful central Parisian bar built in the 19th century.
Hire a photographer to take some great pictures of you in front of Paris iconic places: Montmartre, Louvre pyramid, Eiffel Tower...
Art tours and Special Topics
Follow the footsteps of a modern artist in Paris and understand his artistic message.
If you want to attend a special temporary Art Exposition in Paris, Find an expert to facilitate the visit around a special topic.
Themes and Expos in Paris :
Da Vinci, Soulages, Ancient Egypt in the Louvre, Renaissance, Impressionism in Orsay, Jewish expo and art, Dreyfus in Pontheon, old Medicine tools in Carnavalet, French Revolution in Bastille, WWII, Paris under occupation, the liberation and the Resistance of Paris ...
Paris Highlights
See all the highlights of Paris in only 4 hours.
Learn about Paris landmarks and its History, with a Private driver and a Tour Guide at your entire disposal.
You can hop off the car with your private tour guide to get pictures and more explanations of the city landmarks, while the driver awaits for you.
Yacht de Paris
Spend 2 hours on a private Yacht
See all the monuments of Paris on the river Seine while enjoying a nice cocktail party.
The soirée be arranged with Melanie from Yacht de Paris for a party of 20 people
Helicopter tour
See Paris from Above
Take a safe helicopter tour to see Paris beauty from the skies
For B2B only: you can ask for a Free orientation tour (max 1 hour) or a Free Live consultation (30 minutes) to meet with a professional in Paris, or to hire a tour guide in Paris and test his/her guided tours.
Connect with me
For a question about Paris, guided tours, Art, History of Art, Travel articles, links, marketing strategy or planning.
For a last-minute request for a tour guide in Paris : please use the form and add the mention "Urgent" or "Important" in your message and I will answer you promptly.
Thank you.
Five Days in Paris