Complete Guide to Paris: What to See in 5 Days
Day-by-day detailed itinerary to discover the City of Light: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, Montmartre and the best restaurants.
Paris, the City of Light, is a destination that never goes out of style. In 2026, the French capital is more vibrant than ever, with its timeless charms and new experiences following the Olympic Games. Whether it\'s your first visit or a return to its history-filled streets, Paris promises to seduce you with its art, gastronomy, and that unmistakable magic that makes it a dream for any traveler.
At Viajesline, we have prepared this complete guide so your trip to Paris is simply perfect. From must-see monuments to best-kept secrets, we take you by the hand through a city that has it all.
How Many Days Do You Need in Paris?
For a first visit, we recommend a minimum of 4 to 5 full days. This time will allow you to explore the main points of interest without rushing, enjoy its neighborhoods at leisure, and even take a day trip to nearby places like Versailles.
Must-See Attractions
1. Eiffel Tower
The symbol of Paris. Climb to the top for unforgettable panoramic views.
2. Louvre Museum
The world's most famous museum with the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
3. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Bohemian neighborhood with the white basilica and the best views of Paris.
4. Notre-Dame
Iconic Gothic cathedral. Visit the facade and the archaeological crypt.
5. Arc de Triomphe
Presiding over the Champs-Élysées with 12 avenues in a star shape.
6. Musée d'Orsay
Impressionism paradise in a former train station.
Complete 5-Day Itinerary
Paris Icons
- Morning: Eiffel Tower (arrive at 9:00 AM for shorter queues)
- Noon: Walk through Trocadéro and lunch with views
- Afternoon: Arc de Triomphe and stroll down the Champs-Élysées
- Evening: Sunset Seine River cruise
Art & History
- Morning: Louvre Museum (minimum 3-4 hours)
- Lunch: Tuileries Garden
- Afternoon: Walk across Pont des Arts and Île de la Cité
- Evening: Dinner in the Latin Quarter
Montmartre & Le Marais
- Morning: Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre
- Lunch: Café in Montmartre with a view
- Afternoon: Le Marais neighborhood and Place des Vosges
- Evening: Moulin Rouge or live jazz
More Museums & Gardens
- Morning: Musée d'Orsay (Impressionism)
- Lunch: Café Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain
- Afternoon: Luxembourg Gardens and Panthéon
- Evening: Opéra Garnier (guided tour or show)
Versailles Day Trip
- Early morning: RER C train to Versailles
- All day: Palace, Gardens and Trianon
- Return: Farewell dinner in Paris
- Tip: Buy Paris Museum Pass to skip the lines
When to Visit Paris?
🌸 Spring (April-June)
Pleasant weather, gardens in bloom. Ideal season.
🍂 Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Fall colors, fewer crowds than summer.
☀️ Summer (Jul-Aug)
Hot and crowded, but long days and festivals.
❄️ Winter (Nov-Mar)
Cold but magical at Christmas. Good prices.
Parisian Gastronomy: What to Try
Croissant
€1-2Freshly baked in the morning from any boulangerie
Croque Monsieur
€8-12Grilled ham and cheese sandwich
French Onion Soup
€10-15Traditional gratinéed onion soup
Steak-frites
€18-25Bistro steak with French fries
Macarons
€2-3 eachFrom Ladurée or Pierre Hermé
Crêpes
€5-10Sweet or savory (galettes)
Getting Around Paris
Metro
The fastest way. Buy a "carnet" of 10 tickets or a Navigo Semaine pass.
On Foot
Paris is perfect for walking. Many attractions are close together.
Paris Museum Pass
Access to 50+ museums and monuments. Save time and money if visiting several.
RER
Fast train to Versailles (line C) or CDG airport (line B).
Where to Stay
Le Marais (Districts 3 & 4) - ⭐ RECOMMENDED
The best option for most. Central, historic, with lots of atmosphere, shops and restaurants.
Latin Quarter (District 5)
Ideal for tighter budgets. Young, lively and very well located.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés (District 6)
Elegant and quiet. Full of art galleries, historic cafés and boutiques.
Want to Discover Paris Without Any Worries?
At Viajesline we can design a trip to Paris that perfectly fits your dreams, whether on an organized tour or a custom trip.