Are you trying to plan your 5 days in Paris and don’t know where to start? Don’t worry! Leave it to the experts and just enjoy.
The first question you will have is bound to be “Is 5 days in Paris enough?” and my answer is yes. 5 days in Paris are just about enough to see all the most important places to visit in Paris.
You could stay longer – the French capital is such an incredible place that you will fall in love with it and wish you could stay longer anyway.
However, you can see a lot in Paris in 5 days: visit the most popular attractions and even get off-the-beaten-track. But this requires some careful planning, which includes getting tickets in advance to many attractions.
Planning 5 days in Paris can be quite a daunting task, but here I have a fantastic itinerary that will help you make the most of the city. Book your flights, your accommodation (don’t worry, I will also suggest where to stay in Paris), and follow this Paris itinerary and you’ll have a great time.
Following my itinerary? These are the tickets / tours you need to get:
Now, continue reading this post to discover how to spend 5 days in Paris, and get tips on how to skip the lines at the most popular attractions, save a bit of money, and overall enjoy the Ville Lumiere.
Table of Contents
5 Days In Paris – Itinerary Overview
This 5 days in Paris itinerary is built on the assumption that you are sleeping 6 nights there, or you get in very early in the morning on your first day or fly out very late in the evening on your last day.
Here is a quick overview of this 5 days in Paris itinerary:
Day One
A fantastic introduction to the city, with a great museum and some of the best views of Paris:
- Musee d’Orsay
- Shakespeare and Company
- The Pantheon
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Montparnasse Tower
- The Catacombs
Day Two
More incredible views of the city, and a fantastic walk to discover its parks:
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Arc de Triomphe
- Champs-Elysées
- Place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
Day Three
The most famous museum in the world, and the most beautiful churches in Paris:
- Palais-Royal
- Louvre
- Notre-Dame
- Saint Chapelle
- River Seine Cruise
- Centre Pompidou
Day Four
A day trip to Versailles
Day Five
The most charming neighborhoods of Paris:
- Moulin Rouge
- Sacré-Coeur
- Montmartre
- Père Lachaise Cemetery
- Le Marais
This itinerary is drafted to allow you to visit attractions that are close to each other on the same day, minimize the time spent commuting and maximize your time at each attraction. On most days, you can follow it in reverse. Check the closing time of the attractions to decide which your starting point should be!
Going To Paris Soon?
Whether yours is a last-minute trip or one you have been planning for months, I recommend booking your attractions tickets and tours in Paris ASAP to avoid any disappointment.
I recommend using GetYourGuide, my favorite tour provider. It offers a variety of activities, flexible booking, and 24/7 support!
This is what you have to book if you follow this Paris in 5 days itinerary:
- Louvre Admission Ticket – The Louvre must be booked in advance.
- Eiffel Tower Ticket – Get a ticket to the summit for the best views.
- Seine River Cruise – Opt for a hop-on hop-off cruise as it’s easier for the purpose of this itinerary.
- Palace of Versailles Ticket – The best day trip from Paris!
- Montparnasse Tower Ticket – The best views of the Eiffel Tower.
- Paris Catacombs – The quirkiest attraction in Paris.
- Musée D’Orsay Ticket – The best impressionist art collection in Europe.
- Montmartre Walking Tour – Explore Paris’ quaintest neighborhood with a local guide.
Let’s finally get into more details and discover the unmissable places to visit in Paris!
How To Spend 5 Days In Paris
Day 1
Day 1 of your 5 days in Paris itinerary will not feel too packed. Regardless, go to bed early the night before, and plan to set out no later than 8:30 am. You will visit Musee d’Orsay; head to Shakespeare and Company and the Pantheon; walk through Luxembourg Gardens; get the views from Montparnasse Tower and finish off at the Catacombs.
Map of day one Paris itinerary
You can download a map of your day 1 itinerary here. You only really need to use public transportation to get to the Musée d’Orsay and to move from there to Shakespeare and Company (it’s a 2 km walk, by the way), and to get back to your hotel at the end of the day.
If you happen to follow this itinerary on a Thursday, I recommend following it in reverse, so that can go at a slightly more relaxed pace as the Musée d’Orsay closes at 9:45 pm on Thursdays.
Musee d’Orsay
If you have 5 days in Paris, you can opt to visit two museums. Musée d’Orsay – located on the south bank of the Seine River – is a rather obvious choice for art lovers, as it has an incredible collection of impressionist art dating from 1848 onward.
You will be able to admire pieces by artists such asMonet, Manet, Renoir, Van Gogh and many more.
It is worth visiting even just for the chance to admire the building, which once was a train station (Gare d’Orsay, built for the Universal Expo) and later renovated to house the museum. Go to the top floor to catch a glimpse of the clock, it is stunning!
The museum often houses special exhibits – there was one about Degas when I visited. Make sure to check the website to see if there is one when you visit, and if there is, factor in a little extra time to explore.
I recommend taking a guided tour of the museum – even if only with an audio guide. Admission at this museum is not timed but you will be better off with a skip-the-line ticket anyways.
Try to enter the museum as soon as it opens and factor in at least 2 hours for the visit.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, except on Thursdays when it closes at 9:45 pm. It is closed on Mondays.
Tickets to Musée d’Orsay are included in the Paris Museum Pass. You can get tickets on the museum’s official website or on third-party booking sites for the same price. It will take you at least two hours to visit.
For a more detailed guide, head over to my post How To Visit Musée D’Orsay.
Shakespeare and Company
On your way to the Pantheon, stop by Shakespeare and Company.
This quaint, independent anglophone bookstore in the heart of the Latin Quarter first opened in 1951 and since then become a meeting point for English-speaking (but not only) writers and readers who happen to be in Paris. The building where it is located was originally a monastery (dating from the 17th century).
You can browse through books, appreciate the gorgeous buildings, attend one of the many events and workshops (though this is a bit hard if you only have 5 days in Paris) and – provided she is around and available – even pet the resident cat.
The Pantheon
Located on Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, Paris Pantheon is the burial ground of some of France’s most notable people such as Rousseau, Voltaire, Marie Curie, Alexandre Dumas, Victor Hugo, and Émile Zola.
The Pantheon was built between 1758 and 1790. It was originally a church, but during the French Revolution it was turned into a mausoleum.
The Pantheon is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 or 6:30 pm depending on the season.
You can get tickets on the official website – they give you access to the nave and crypt of the monument. Tickets are also available on third-party booking sites for exactly the same price.
Luxembourg Gardens
With 5 days in Paris, you will have enough time to explore its best parks. Luxembourg Gardens is one of my favorite parks in Paris, and it’s right on the way from the Pantheon to Montparnasse Tower.
The park was built upon orders of Maria de’ Medici at the beginning of the 17th century. The palace is currently the seat of the French Senate. If you happen to visit during the summer, you will find it a great place to relax for a bit as you can easily find shade under the many trees.
Highlights of the park include the statues of 20 French queens and Medici’s fountain.
Montparnasse Tower
You won’t have much time to explore Montparnasse neighborhood if you only have 5 days in Paris, but you should go upMontparnasse Tower, for some incredible views.
The tower was built in the early 1970s and currently is Paris’ second highest building with its 210 meters (689 feet). It’s one of the best places in town to get views ofthe Eiffel Tower. From up there, you can also admire the Montparnasse District and see all the way to La Defense.
If you get there in time for sunset (this really depends on the season) it’s a very romantic place!
The observation deck of Montparnasse Tower is open every day from 9:30 am. Closing time varies, but it’s usually later during the weekend and in the summer months.
Admission to the rooftop terrace is included in the Paris Museum Pass, but you can also get tickets on the official website or purchase your tickets on third party booking sites.
The Catacombs
If you are seeing Paris in 5 days, you have time to visit Paris Catacombs. This is a spooky place, located where once was a limestone mine that started being filled with bodiesat the end of the 18th century when local cemeteries couldn’t accommodate more bodies.
The Catacombs are excavated at 20 meters (more than 65 feet) below street level, and there isn’t much variation in the temperature throughout the year – it’s 14°C (57°F) and quite humid, so if you are following this itinerary for 5 days in Paris in December, you will find warmer than outside, and likewise in the summer, it’s pleasantly cool. Just make sure to dress appropriately!
To visit, you will have to go down 131 steps and then climb up 112 steps – keep this in mind if you have mobility issues.
The Catacombs are open Tuesdays to Sundays from 9:45 am to 8:30 pm (last admission is at 7:30 pm). They are closed on Mondays and on January 1,May 1 and December 25.
You need to book a time slot for your visit – you can select one of the latest ones but if you are following this itinerary in reverse order, go as soon as it opens. Factor in about one hour for your visit. You can book tickets on the official website or also book a time-slot on a third-party booking site.
Day 2
Something tells me that this day has the potential of being your favorite out of your 5 days in Paris. You will start with a bang at the Eiffel Tower, then get views of the Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars and the Trocadero. You will then go to the Arc de Triomphe and walk along the Champs-Elysées to Place de la Concorde and the lovely Tuileries Garden.
Map of day two Paris itinerary
To download the map of your day 2 itinerary, click here. If you are keen on getting sunset or evening views of the Eiffel Tower and from the Eiffel Tower, you can walk this itinerary the other way around. In this case, you need to get to the Louvre and head to the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel which will be your starting point.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic attraction in town, and you really can’t skip it if it is your first time in Paris.
Built in 1889 for the World Expo, the Eiffel Tower measures 324 meters (1,063 feet) and it once was the tallest building in France. Today, it is the highest man-made observation deck in Europe, at 276 meters (905.5 feet).
The views of Paris from the second floor and the summit of the Eiffel Tower are out of this world. You can see Montmartre Sacre Coeur from up there, so I recommend going with your camera for stunning photos.
There is an ongoing debate between people who suggest the best views are from the second floor and others who believe the best views are from the summit.
I think they are simply different, and in doubt, you should check them out both: it’s not like you are going up the Eiffel Tower every day! Tickets to the summit will give you access to the second floor anyways.
The Eiffel Tower is open every day. Keep in mind that closing time differs between stairs and elevator so you should check the official website for more accurate timings.
You must get tickets in advance and book a time slot to go up the Eiffel Tower. Even with pre-purchased tickets, you will have to line up for the security checks and for the elevator.
Get the earliest possible access to climb the Eiffel Tower and factor in around 2 hours for your visit, from the moment you get there to the time you actually get out (unless you are planning on having dinner there).
You can buy your tickets on the official Eiffel Tower site – but these are not refundable.
You can also get second floor and summit tickets on GetYourGuide – I like this option because the website is much easier to use.
A good alternative is the Paris Museum Pass – but with that you need to still use the Eiffel Tower official website to book a time slot for your visit. For a smoother booking experience, you should opt for the Paris City Card which allows you to pick a time slot directly on the site, without having to jump to a different site.
If you follow this day’s itinerary in reverse, you may decide to visit the Eiffel Tower in time for sunset and dine there.
There are a couple of restaurants on the Eiffel Tower, but they must be booked in advance so if this is something you care to do, make sure to plan well ahead of your visit. Here are your options:
JULES VERNE – Located on the second floor, this is a Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s expensive.
MADAME BRASSERIE – A bit more easygoing, it’s located on the first floor.
You can book your lunch at Madame Brasserie on GetYourGuide for a very reasonable prime. This also includes elevator access to the first floor.
For more detailed information, read my post How To Visit The Eiffel Tower which explains the various available options.
Champ de Mars
These are some truly pleasant gardens in Paris and since they are so close to the Eiffel Tower they can’t be missed!
The Champ de Mars park was first opened in 1780, next to the École Militaire. Tourists and locals both love the place and head there en masse at weekends or on special occasions – it’s a perfect place for picnics, a great place if you have 5 days in Paris with family, and it has incredible views of the Eiffel Tower. And it’s free to visit!
Trocadero
In case you are wondering, you got it: today is all about the views. After admiring the views from the Eiffel Tower, then the Eiffel Tower from Champ de Mars, you can head to Trocadéro for even better views.
The Trocadero is on the other side of the Seine River from the Tower, and you will pass it on your way from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe. Don’t be surprised to find it crowded: it’s a popular spot. Just know what to expect for a great experience.
If you can push yourself out of bed, go to the Trocadero for sunrise. There is almost nobody around, you will get incredible photos with nobody in the way!
Arc de Triomphe
You will find the Arc de Triomphe on Place de l’Etoile, at the western end of the Champs-Elysées, where it dominates a massive roundabout that you should not attempt to cross (there is an underpass!).
The Arc de Triomphe was built to celebrate war victories and to commemorate the many people who died during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars.
It’s an impressive building that measures 50 meters (164 feet) arch. You can go in for more views of the city – there is an elevator to the top, or you can climb the steps. The views are great: you can see La Défense – Paris business district; and of course you can also spot the Eiffel Tower.
On the way out, the stairs offer yet more photo opportunities.
The Arc de Triomphe is open every day – opening times vary depending on the season so visit the official Arc de Triomphe website for more details. It is closed on 1 January, 1 May, 8 May (morning), 14 July (morning), 11 November (morning) and 25 December.
There is a fee to access – you can get tickets on the official website.
Tickets are also included in the Paris Museum Pass. If you are not interested in the Paris Pass, you can get tickets at the official rate on GetYourGuide too.
Champs-Elysées
The Champs-Elysées run from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. Their full name is Avenue des Champs-Élysées and they are located in the 8th arrondissem*nt of Paris. They measure 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles) are are 70 meters (230 feet) wide.
The Champs-Elysées are named after the Elysian Fields, which in Greek mythology is a place for dead heroes.
It’s a massive boulevard lined with nice boutiques, luxury stores, restaurants, and cafés, as well as movie theaters. It’s where the Lido, one of the most famous cabaret shows in Paris, is located.
Biking enthusiasts will know this is also the finishing bit of the Tour de France cycling race, whereas history buffs may know this is where the annual Bastille Day military parade takes place.
It’s an overall great street to walk along, as there is a lot to take in along the way!
Place de la Concorde
One of the squares you will come across during your 5 days in Paris is Place de la Concorde.
Paris’ largest square is located between the Champs-Elysées and the Tuileries Garden. It was built in 1772 – back then it had the name Place Louis XV. During the time of the Revolution, it was called Place de la Révolution.
It’s the square where executions took place during the French Revolution, including some very notable ones such as those of King Louis XVI and his wife Queen Marie Antoinette.
Located in the square you will see a fountain that dates back to the reign of Louis-Philippe and an obelisk taken from the entrance of Luxor Temple in Egypt.
Tuileries Garden
At the end of the Champs-Elysées and right after Place de la Concorde, before getting to the Louvre, you will find the lovely Tuileries Garden – probably the most famous park in Paris. Named after the tile factories that existed in the area before it was turned into a park, the park was the garden of the 1564 Palais de Tuileries of Queen Catherine de Medici.
The first re-design of the gardens took place in 1664 by André Le Nôtre, gardener of King Louis XIV. The garden was further landscaped by Vaux-le-Vicomte – the same who designed the gardens of Versailles. This should give you an idea of how gorgeous it can be.
Around the gardens, you will find statues of Maillol, Rodin, and Giacometti, and on the south-west part of the Tuileries you will also find the Musée de l’Orangerie, which showcases the works of Monet.
You probably won’t have time to visit the Musée de l’Orangerie, since you are only spending 5 days in Paris, but note down that the last admission is at 5:15 pm so – depending on how the day develops, you may still manage. In case you want to give it a try, get your tickets in advance.
If you happen to spend 5 days in Paris with kids in the summer, they will enjoy the Fête des Tuileries, during which they will find carousel rides and candyfloss on sale.
If you walk their length (and you should, really!) you will end up at the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, right outside the Louvre.
The park is open every day from 7:00 or 7:30 am to 7:30, 9:00 or 11:00 pm depending on the time of year.
Day 3
The third of your 5 days in Paris will be mostly devoted to the Louvre, the world’s largest museum. It will take you hours to explore it. After visiting, you can make your way to the Pompidou, then to the Sainte-Chapelle, and to Notre-Dame before you embark on your Seine river cruise.
Map of day three Paris itinerary
You can see the map of your day 3 itinerary here. Please take care to note that the map only includes Notre Dame Cathedral, but not the Seine River cruise. Most cruises depart from the Eiffel Tower, but there also are a few that depart from the area of Notre Dame.
Palais-Royal
You will love this place! Once the home of Cardinal Richelieu, who lived there until his death in 1642, the Palais became property of Philippe II Duke of Orléans, who was holding the throne as Louis XV became king aged 5 in 1715.
Now the seat of the Constitutional Council and the Ministry of Culture, it makes for an interesting visit thanks to the art installation of striped columns of different sizes.
The Palais-Royal is still considered one of Paris hidden gems, but it is growing in popularity so if you have 5 days in Paris make sure to go, at least to take some photos before you continue your exploration.
As it is close to the Louvre and opens very early, I recommend heading there first thing: you will have it all to yourself. After that, go to the Louvre.
Palais-Royal usually opens at 7:00 or 7:30 am and closes late. Visiting is free.
Louvre
There are many museums in Paris, but if you visit just one, it has to be the Louvre.
Once the Royal Palace of Paris (kings resided here until Louis XIV moved the entire court to Versailles), the Louvre became an art gallery in the 1700s, and houses some of the most famous paintings and sculptures in the world.
Here you will be able to see the enigmatic smile of Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa; the Wedding at Cana by Veronese; the Sleeping Hermaphroditus by Bernini; the Venus of Milo; the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and many more pieces of art.
But there’s more. Not only the Louvre houses an impressive art collection. It is also a beautiful building to explore. Stop to observe the ceilings, the marble floors, the grand rooms and amire the views.
A day is not enough to visit Louvre, and if you have 5 days in Paris you can’t devote an entire day to it (you could if you had a week in Paris or more). So, limit your time there to three hours at most.
The Louvre also works on a time-slot system, so you will have to book a specific time for your visit: I encourage you to do that well in advance as tickets are often sold out and you may find a long line at the office. This way, you can directly head to the fast-track security line to walk in.
There are various ways to get tickets to the Louvre. Here are my recommendations.
The most obvious way of getting tickets is the Louvre official website. The website can be a bit confusing, but if you want a plain ticket this is the most budget friendly way.
There’s also GetYourGuide that sells Louvre tickets, a third-party booking site that allows you to select a time slot for your visit. Tickets here cost as much as on the official website – but this site is way more user-friendly and there is more availability for last minute tickets. You can also get fast track tickets to the Louvre on Tiqets.
Fast-track tickets to the Louvre are also included in the Paris Museum Pass. If you get that, remember you will have to book your time slot on the official website of the Louvre.
I personally recommend joining a guided tour so that the only thing you have to worry about is taking in all the incredible art and the magnificent building. The guide will take you around the museum, to the most important pieces, and dodge the crowds for you.
I recommend this masterpieces guided tour of the Louvre – it lasts 3 hours and has free cancellation.
The Louvre is open every day but Tuesdays, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (it closes at 9:45 pm on Fridays). It is closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December.
If you are in Paris on a Friday, go to the Louvre in the evening, when it closes later and it is less crowded. That way, you’ll have more time to explore the rest of the places!
Make sure to read my post How To Get Tickets To The Louvre.
Sainte Chapelle
Sainte Chapelle is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris, so it’s only fair to include it in this 5 days in Paris guide.
This is a 13th-century Gothic church with stunning glass windows that go from the floor to the ceiling. It really is a stunning sight and you will wow multiple times as you walk in.
It will take you around one hour to explore the church.
Sainte Chapelle is open every day except for 1 January, 1 May, and 25 December and works on a time-slot system.
Tickets can be bought online on the official website of Saint Chapelle. They are also included in the Paris Museum Pass.
You can also get tickets to Saint Chapelle on GetYourGuide – they cost the same as on the official website but have free cancellation which is an added bonus.
Notre-Dame
The most famous church in Paris, Notre Dame was completed in 1345, after around 200 years of construction work. While at the moment it is closed for visits following the 15 April 2019 fire that badly damaged it, you can still admire it from the outside, so I thought I’d include it in this Paris in 5 days itinerary.
The church is a beautiful sight even from the outside. The first time I went to Paris, I caught sight of it as I got off the RER from the airport and walked up the stairs to exit the station. I wowed a multiple times!
The church is meant to open its doors to visitors once again on 8 December 2024.
River Seine Cruise
A cruise along the Seine River is certainly one of the unmissable things to do in Paris for first-time visitors. Sailing along the river, you really get a different perspective of the city. And depending on which time of year you visit, you could even try to time your cruise in time for sunset for a very romantic experience.
Seine River cruises typically last about one hour – though some last longer as they may include dinner. They all follow the same itinerary, stopping to allow you to admire the views of the most important landmarks which include Orsay Museum. the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Cruises most typically depart from the Eiffel Tower, but for this itinerary, you can get a Batobus hop-on hop-off cruise that also departs from nearby Notre Dame. Once again, the Paris Museum Pass includes tickets for a Seine River cruise.
For more cruise options and to find out what to expect exactly from your Seine River cruise, I recommend reading my post How To Pick The Best Seine River Cruise.
Centre Pompidou
I thought of adding the Centre Pompidou to this Paris in 5 days itinerary because it’s in my favorite neighborhood in Paris – Le Marais. What I also like about it is that it is not nearly as famous as other tourist attractions in Paris, and so not nearly as crowded – which is a nice break after the crowds of the Louvre.
The Centre Pompidou is one of the coolest buildings in town. With only 5 days in Paris, you probably won’t have time to go inside, but it’s worth going to just look at the incredible building which houses the National Museum of Modern Art – Europe’s largest modern art museum with works of the likes of Picasso, Matisse, Kandinsky – and the lovely square right behind it.
This museum is open until 9:00 pm, so you can leave it as the last place on your itinerary for the day: you will have plenty of time to get there after the cruise. I recommend catching the views from its balcony as a nice addition to your visit.
You can book your tickets on the Centre Pompidou official website, and they are also included in the Paris Museum Pass.
Day 4: Versailles
With 5 days in Paris, you have enough time for a day trip out of town. Some may suggest going to Disneyland, but my recommendation is to head to Versailles.It’s really close to Paris – about 16 km (around 10 miles) southwest of the city and you can get there by train.
Versailles is known to bethe symbol of all the excesses of the French Monarchy. The castle, built around King Louis XIII hunting lodge and once a private retreat, became the royal residence and the seat of the French Government with King Louis XIV, and remained so from 1682 to 1789.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, your visit should include not just the castle itself, but also the nearby Petit and Grand Trianon Estates (the first was the preferred residence of Queen Marie Antoinette, whereas the second is where Napoleon resided) and the magnificent gardens with their musical fountains.
Chateau Versailles is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am. It is closed on Mondays.
You must book a time slot for your visit. You can do that on the official website. You can also get very convenient Versailles Palace, Gardens and Estate tickets on Tiqets, one of my favorite third-party booking sites.
Versailles is a massive site to explore, so I recommend booking a guided tour for at least part of your visit. Once the tour is finished you can continue exploring on your own – that’s what I have done the first time I visited.
I recommend this Versailles skip-the-line guided tour with garden access that lasts 1.5 hours and is highly rated.
The easiest and cheapest way to get from Paris to Versailles is by RER C. I recommend buying your return ticket from the train station in Paris as there will be long lines at Versailles station.
For a more detailed guide, read my post A Complete Guide To Visiting Versailles.
Day 5
Your last day in Paris will be spent wandering around Montmartre, one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods. You will start at the Moulin Rouge; head to the Sacre-Coeur; then explore Montmartre before heading to Père Lachaise Cemetery.
If you have time, at the end of the day, I recommend walking to Le Marais, one of the nicest neighborhoods in town.
Avoid Montmartre at weekends as it gets terribly crowded.
Map of day five Paris itinerary
You can see the map of your day 5 itinerary here. Head to the Moulin Rouge as early as possible. You can get there by subway: get off at Blanche. From there, head to the Sacre-Coeur before exploring the rest of Montmartre. Once you are done exploring this part of town, take the metro to Père Lachaise.
If you want to see a show at the Moulin Rouge, consider starting at the cemetery so that you get to the Moulin Rouce in the evening.
Moulin Rouge
Located southwest of Montmartre, in the district of Pigalle on Boulevard de Clichy in the 18th arrondissem*nt, you will recognize the Moulin Rouge by the red windmill on its roof, a homage to the many windmills that, back when it was inaugurated, were spotted in this part of the city.
The theater was first opened during the Belle Epoque, in 1889 – around the same time the Eiffel Tower was also opened in preparation for the Universal Expo. Its owners were Charles Zidler and Joseph Oller, who were also the owners of the Paris Olympia theater. A fire destroyed it in 1915, after which it was rebuilt.
Seeing a show at the Moulin Rouge may not be for all, but you should at least pop by this Parisian institution famous for its cabaret and for being the birthplace of the can-can dance.
You should get tickets to see a show at the Moulin Rouge in advance. Depending on what you book, your tickets will also include a glass of champagne.
Sacré-Coeur
If you have been up the Eiffel Tower, you will have spotted the Sacré-Coeur Basilica from a distance. Now, it’s finally time to see it up close. This white church is located at the very top of the Montmartre Hill, where it started being built in 1875 in Romano-Byzantine.
The church was finally completed in 1914 but it was only consecrated after the end of World War I. The views from the stairs right outside the church are great, but they are even better from the dome.
If you care for an in-depth visit of the church, you may want to opt for this guided tour that lasts 1.5 hours.
Montmartre
Without a doubt, Montmartre is one of the nicest areas to explore in Paris. It can be incredibly crowded, but it’s hard not to love it! It’s so quaint with its low houses, the cobbled houses, the local cafés and bakeries.
This area of Paris is actually full of history and important landmarks. It was and still is a hub for artists – Monet, Renoir, Modigliani, Picasso, and even Van Gogh all lived here at some point in their lives.
Spots you should not miss are the historical cafés such as Le Consulat, or La Refuge Café; there are street artists at Place du Tertre from where you can get a portrait; there are lovely independent shops and lots of hidden corners that will reveal its unique history.
There even is a small vineyard there that still produces wine.
It’s fairly easy to explore Montmartre independently, but if you want to get a good background opt for a guided tour. That’s what I did, and I found I learned a lot!
I recommend this Montmartre 2-hour walking tour that is very budget-friendly. It’s the one I took and the guide proved to be incredibly knowledgeable, led the group swiftly across the busy streets of Montmartre (I had the bot-so-brilliant idea of visiting during the weekend on my last trip!) and shared interesting facts and useful information.
Another tour I wholeheartedly recommend is this Exclusive Montmartre Experience with Private Vineyard Tasting, Skip-the-Line Museum Tour, & Sacré-Coeur – It’s operated by Take Walks, one of the best tour providers in Europe, and includes most places in Montmartre mentioned in this post.
For a more detailed guide, you should read my post The Best Places To Visit In Montmartre.
Père Lachaise
Père Lachaise is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world, and the largest in Paris. It’s located in the 20th arrondissem*nt, where it opened in the early 19th century and saw various enlargements throughout its history.
Visitors flock here to see the burial ground of many famous people such as singer Edith Piaf or Doors lead singer Jim Morrison, who are buried alongside the likes of Balzac and Oscar Wilde.
The cemetery opens every day between 8:00 and 8:30 am and closes between 5:30 and 6:00 pm depending on the season.It’s a vast park that is free to enter but a guided tour may be a good idea to make the most of it. This Père Lachaise tour is very thorough and lasts 3 hours.
BONUS: Le Marais
I love Le Marais and think this is the nicest neighborhood in Paris. It’s an area packed with excellent restaurants, cafés and bars, quaint streets, artists’ ateliers, lovely independent boutiques, and a few interesting museums.
Here you will find the Museum of French History, the Musée National Picasso-Paris, the Musée Carnavalet, Victor Hugo House Museum, and much more. If you have enough time to explore on your last day, definitely go for it!
If you want to get a more in depth understanding of the uniqueness of the Marais, I recommend joining this Le Marais District Jewish History Guided Tour – it lasts two hours and it will walk you through an often ignored part of the history of Paris.
Practical Tips For Your 5 Days In Paris
Where to stay in Paris
If you only have 5 days in Paris, picking a good location for your accommodation is crucial. You want a place that is close to a subway stop and from where you can move around easily.
I personally love the Marais. It is within walking distance from the Louvre and Notre Dame, very friendly and safe, and with many good small restaurants. And it has retained its local feel.
I will be writing a post about the best areas to stay in Paris, with the best hotels. Meantime, this is a selection of the best places to stay.
La Chambre du Marais is near the Pompidou Center. Rooms aren’t big but they are cozy, beautiful and comfortable.
Hotel Montecristo has plush, vintage-style rooms. There is a pool and even a restaurant.
Young and Happy Latin Quarter by Hiphophostels is a good option for travelers on a budget. The dorms are plain but well-equipped. Breakfast is an add-on.
Best restaurants in Paris
Have lunch on the go or opt for a quick bite! Paris is packed with bakeries where you can get a sandwich or a quick lunch. Bread is so good that you will want to eat at bakeries! But when dinner time comes, you will want to go to a great restaurant!
You have plenty of choices when it comes to restaurants. Here are my top recommendations:
A La Biche Au Bois – This nice restaurant offers traditional French cuisine at very reasonable prices.
Siamsa – If you want French cuisine with a more contemporary twist, this very reasonably priced restaurant if your best choice.
Le Petit Rétro – You will love the style and decorations of this restaurant. And the food (traditional French cuisine) is also excellent.
Café Père & Fils – This is a typical Parisian brasserie and coffee shop. There are outdoors seating for a more local experience.
La Crêperie des Pêcheurs – If you want to try crêpes, this is the place to go.
Restaurant Le Dalì – Located close to the Tuileries Gardens, it’s the perfect place for a special occasion (perhaps a proposal?). It’s very expensive.
Le Mazenay – This is one of the latest additions to my favorite restaurants in Paris. It has a strong focus on seasonal products – and prides itself on being a farm-to-table restaurant. The focus is on contemporary cuisine.
You will find more restaurants on the app The Fork. It’s available throughout Europe (I use it all the time) and it allows you to read the menu, read reviews and book a table. You can download it on both iOS and Android.
Using a Paris Pass during your 5 days in Paris
You may consider getting a Paris Pass if you have 5 days in Paris. Passes usually include tickets to a variety of attractions, with skip the line options, and discount for others. Many of them also include public transportation.
Keep in mind that most Paris Passes do not include tickets to the Eiffel Tower. You can get a Paris Pass that includes Eiffel Tower tickets here.
Regardless of the pass you purchase, you will have to make reservations for each tourist attraction separately.
Make sure to read the terms and conditions and the inclusions very carefully.
Best time to visit Paris
Any time is a good time to visit Paris. However, if you only have to spare 5 days in Paris I recommend going between the late spring (May) and the fall (October) so that days are a bit longer and you have more day light to explore.
How to get to Paris
Paris is very well connected to the rest of Europe and the world. You can travel there by train or by plane.
You can catch flights to Charles de Gaulle Airport, which is the main one in Paris and an hub for Air France, which has good, convenient flights from many locations around the US and Europe.
To get to the center of Paris from Charles de Gaulle you can take the train, bus, shuttle van and taxi. The journey can take between 30 minutes (by train) to up to one and a half hour (depending on traffic).
You can use Welcome Pickups to reserve your private transfer from the airport to the city center – I have used in Paris and other cities and their service is impeccable.
Make sure to read my post How To Get From Charles De Gaulle Airport CDG To Paris for more options on how to get from the airport to the city center.
How to move around Paris
Public transportation in Paris works really well. The best way to get around is the subway (called metro in French). A one-way ticket costs €2.15. I recommend getting a bunch of tickets from the vending machines once you get to the city, so that you don’t have to stop every time!
You can get a day ticket, an individual ticket, or a bundle of 10 tickets. To top it up, you can go to the ticket office at the station or just use the convenient Bonjour RATP app which works on both Andrioid and iOS.
Get tickets in advance
One important thing to remember is that even if you feel you have plenty of time to explore the city, you still have to get skip-the-line, timed entrance tickets to the most popular tourist attractions.
Paris is so crowded that it allows for very little improvisation. Some attractions get sold out weeks in advance and if you don’t book ahead of your visit, you may end up either stuck in the line at the ticket counter or – in the worst-case scenario – entirely unable to visit.
Don’t push yourself on your first day
I have traveled enough to know that after a long-haul flight, you won’t have the energy to go out exploring other than just for a leisurely walk. It will take you around 2 hours to clear customs, pick up your luggage, and make your way to the hotel. You will then want to freshen up, check your whereabouts, eat something, and have an early night.
Take it easy the day you arrive in Paris. Explore the neighborhood where you are staying, maybe do a guided food tour in the evening, after you have rested a bit. This private food tour is a good option and you can decide the time it starts. This other one is in Le Marais and starts at 2:00 pm.
Luggage storage in Paris
Should you need it, you can find luggage storage facilities all around Paris. The most convenient locations are usually the train stations such as Gare du Nord. Storage starts at €5 per day and you have to book in advance. BagBnB is a good place to look.
Other useful tips
Dress for success
Paris is a fashionable city, but you are not attending a fashion show! You really want to be comfortable when exploring the city, especially considering you will be walking a lot. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes!
My post What To Wear In Paris guides you to the items you must take to the city.
Get a data plan for your smartphone
Make sure your smartphone plan allows you to use data overseas. This will come in handy to use apps such as Google Maps or to quickly research for information.
For further guidance, head over to my post The Best Paris Travel Tips.
Get a guide book
Make sure to bring along a good guide book which includes maps, restaurant recommendations and lots of other information. These are some good ones:
Mind the scams
Scams in Paris are common – much like in any other city that is crowded with tourists. Do not fall for the friendship bracelet, the golden ring, the cup and ball scams and don’t trust anybody who claims to be raising funds for disadvantaged categories such as the deaf. Mind pickpockets too, especially when on the subway!
Get a good travel insurance
Even if you just have 5 days in Paris, you still need travel insurance. Make sure to read my post Why You Need A Good Travel Insurance. Get a good travel insurance here.
Further Readings
Make sure to read my other posts that will provide insights about the many attractions of Paris:
- A Fantastic Itinerary To See Paris In 4 Days
- Paris In 3 Days: A Great Itinerary To Make The Most Of It
- A Guide To The 5 Best Cities To Visit In France
- The Perfect Itinerary To See Paris In A Day
- 15 Amazing Day Trips From Paris
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