Looking for the perfect Paris travel itinerary? From the Eiffel Tower to the Notre Dame and Le Marais to Montmartre, this itinerary highlights all the best things to do in Paris with 3 to 5 days!
Before my first visit to Paris, I was worried that it was going to be overrated (spoiler alert: it wasn’t!). The city is famous worldwide for its romance, iconic landmarks, world-renowned cuisine, fascinating history, and so much more. My concerns were alleviated after walking along the picturesque River Seine, seeing the mesmerizing lights of the Eiffel Tower, and indulging in endless buttery croissants.
I’ve since visited Paris countless times and love to re-visit my favorite places as well as explore new neighborhoods on each trip. For this itinerary, I’ve compiled all the must see spots with a 3 to 5 day trip to Paris.
Here’s the perfect Paris travel itinerary!
About Paris
Paris is the capital of France and is located in the north-central part of the country. It’s often referred to as the “City of Light” and is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the world.
The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, with a mix of historic and modern buildings. Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, and Sacré-Cœur Basilica grace the city’s stunning skyline.
The Eiffel Tower is one of my all-time favorite landmarks in the world. Seeing it in person for the first time was definitely a “pinch me” moment!
Paris is also home to world-famous museums like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou, which house world famous works of art spanning centuries.
Throughout history, Paris has been a muse for countless artists, writers, and filmmakers, and its artistic legacy can be felt throughout the city. Today, it’s one of the fashion and culture capitols of the world!
Best Time to Visit Paris
The best time to visit Paris largely depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you’d like to have. Paris is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique charm. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and what you can expect:
Spring (March to May):
Spring is a delightful time to visit Paris! The city starts to bloom with colorful flowers, and the weather becomes milder. Outdoor attractions and parks, such as the gardens at Versailles and the Luxembourg Gardens, are particularly beautiful during this time. Spring is also the season for cultural events, including art exhibitions and music festivals.
Summer (June to August):
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris as the weather is warm, and the days are long, allowing for more outdoor activities. This is a great time for picnics along the Seine, exploring gardens, and enjoying café culture.
The city really comes alive in the warm summer evenings with both tourists and locals gathering along the Seine for a glass of wine and some charcuterie. One of my favorite activities in Paris!
However, the summer months also mean that there will be larger crowds at popular attractions and higher prices for hotels and flights.
Fall (September to November):
Fall is another excellent time to visit Paris as the weather is still pleasant, and the summer crowds begin to thin out. Plus, the city’s parks and gardens showcase beautiful fall foliage, creating a picturesque setting to enjoy the city.
Winter (December to February):
Winter can be a magical time in Paris, especially around the holiday season when the city is adorned with festive decorations and Christmas markets! While the weather is cold, the city has a cozy and romantic atmosphere, making it a popular season for couples. You can also enjoy indoor attractions like museums and cozying up in cafés with a hot chocolate!
If you don’t mind the chill and want to experience a less crowded Paris, winter can be a lovely time to visit — especially during the holiday season!
I’ve experienced Paris in all the seasons but I have to say that summer is my favorite as I love being able to enjoy the outdoor spaces, parks, picnics, cafe culture, and outdoor dining. But it’s definitely more crowded so if that’s not for you, I would recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons of fall or spring!
How to Get to Paris
Getting to Paris is relatively easy due to its status as a major international transportation hub. Here are the primary ways to get to Paris:
By Air: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is the largest and busiest airport in Paris and France. It serves as a major international gateway to the city, and many international airlines operate flights to and from CDG. Another option is Orly Airport (ORY), which is the second-largest airport in Paris and mainly handles domestic and European flights.
By Eurostar Train: If you’re coming from London, you can take the Eurostar train, which connects London St Pancras International to Gare du Nord in Paris. The journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes.
While I’ve flown into Paris multiple times, I often chose to fly into London as this is one of the best European cities for flight deals from Los Angeles. Taking the Eurostar train is super easy, quick, and enjoyable — the seats are very comfortable and I’ve found they have good meals onboard!
By TGV Train: Paris is well-connected to various European cities by high-speed trains. Major train stations in Paris include Gare du Nord (for northern and eastern destinations), Gare de Lyon (for southeastern France and Italy), and Gare Montparnasse (for western and southwestern France).
How to Get Around Paris
As a large metropolitan city, Paris has a well-connected public transportation system making it relatively easy and cost-effective to get around. And, many of the main attractions are within relatively short distances from each other so walking is another way you’ll likely be getting around the city!
Metro: The Paris Métro is one of the most convenient and popular ways to get around the city. It’s fast, efficient, and covers almost every part of Paris. Stations are well-marked and usually have signs in both French and English. You can purchase single tickets or buy a multi-day pass, such as the Paris Visite card or Navigo card, for unlimited travel within certain zones.
RER (Regional Express Network): The RER is a commuter train system that connects Paris to its suburbs and nearby cities. It’s particularly useful for reaching attractions like Versailles, Disneyland Paris, and the Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Walking: Paris is a highly walkable city, and many of its attractions are relatively close to each other. Exploring on foot allows you to discover charming neighborhoods, hidden courtyards, and picturesque streets. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely do a lot of walking!
Biking & Electric Scooters: Paris has a growing network of bike lanes and bike-sharing programs, as well as electric scoter rentals through programs like Lime and Bird. They can be a fun and convenient way to explore, but be mindful of local regulations and safety guidelines!
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available in Paris, and you can hail one on the street or find one at many top sights around the city. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate in the city, and I’ve found them to be a very easy way to get around — Ubers usually arrive within minutes and they are generally a bit cheaper than at home (southern California)!
River Cruises: For a unique perspective of the city, consider taking a Seine River cruise. This is a relaxing way to see Paris from the water and enjoy views of iconic landmarks. I like to use the Batobus which allows you to hop-on and hop-off at any of their 9 stops (for example, the Notre Dame or the Tour Eiffel) with a 24 hour pass!
Funiculars: Paris has a few funiculars that help you ascend steep areas, such as Montmartre (to reach the Sacré-Cœur Basilica) and the Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood.
Paris Travel Itinerary in 3 to 5 Days
This Paris travel itinerary is perfect for anyone visiting the city with 3 to 5 days! Three days in Paris will allow you to see many of the top attractions, but with a few extra days, you could take a trip to the Palace of Versailles or explore the trendy Marais neighborhood. Below is a quick overview of this itinerary and note that you could definitely swap the days around if you prefer!
- Day 1: Musee d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe & Eiffel Tower
- Day 2: The Louvre, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre, Moulin Rouge
- Day 3: Le Marais, Place des Vosges, Maison Victor Hugo & Picasso Museum
- Day 4: Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, Île Saint-Louis, Jardin du Luxembourg
- Day 5: Palace of Versailles & Seine River Cruise
Day 1: Musee d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe & Eiffel Tower
Musee d’Orsay
Start your first day of this Paris travel itinerary at one of the top attractions in the city! The Musée d’Orsay is one of the most renowned art museums in Paris and is known for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, Cézanne, and many more artists.
The museum is uniquely housed inside of a beautiful, old train station (“Gare d’Orsay”) which features a gorgeous central clock with views of the city, and a glass ceiling.
Musee d’Orsay is a must-visit for both art and architecture enthusiasts!
Pont Alexandre III
On your way to the Arc de Triomphe, don’t miss stopping by the Pont Alexandre III. This ornate bridge is adorned with gold and gilt-bronze statues sit at each of its four corners — making it one of the most beautiful brides in the city!
The bridge will connect you from the left bank to the Champs-Élysées quarter and you’ll get your first glimpses of the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Arc de Triomphe
After continuing along Champs-Élysées, you’ll reach one of the city’s most famous landmarks: the Arc de Triomphe.
Commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate France’s military victories, the landmark holds a significant role in French history. Today, visitors can climb 284 steps up to the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe which has breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
From the top, you’ll be able to spot the Louvre, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and the Eiffel Tower!
Underneath the arch is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier which honors the French soldiers who lost their lives during World War I.
Eiffel Tower
Known as “La Tour Eiffel” in French, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and an iconic symbol of the city. It’s definitely busy and touristy but, in my opinion, no visit to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower.
I’ve visited countless times and each time it takes my breath away. This impressive structure looks magnificent during the day or at night.
Pack a little picnic of wine and charcuterie and enjoy it in the park below. Or, come back at night to see it lit up — did you know there are 20,000 light bulbs on the Eiffel Tower?! Each evening, the tower sparkles for 5 minutes after every hour on the hour.
Another great place to take in the view of the Eiffel Tour is from the Trocadero. Located just across the Seine, the Trocadero has a viewing platform and lovely gardens (called “Jardins du Trocadéro”) that make for some great photo opportunities.
But for the best views, head to the very top of the Eiffel Tower! Visitors can take stairs and an elevator to reach the top viewing platform to see the jaw-dropping views of the city and even enjoy a glass of champagne. Book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines!
Walk Along Rue Cler
Located near the Eiffel Tower, this charming street is home to markets, specialty shops, cafes, and restaurants. Spend some time wandering the cobblestone street, check out the local boulangeries for a pastry or have a drink at one of the outdoor cafes!
Dinner at Le P’tit Troquet
This is one of my favorite restaurants in Paris and it’s not too far from the Eiffel Tower! Le P’tit Troquet services authentic French cuisine with a small, seasonal a la carte menu. And the interior is so charming with a cozy, intimate ambience. The perfect place for your first dinner on the Paris travel itinerary!
Day 2: The Louvre, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre, Moulin Rouge
The Louvre
One of the world’s most famous and prestigious art museums, the Louvre is a must on any Paris travel itinerary! Perhaps the most famous artwork housed in the museum is the “Mona Lisa” by Leonardo da Vinci. This world-famous painting is displayed in a bulletproof, climate-controlled glass case and can be a little tough to see as it’s relatively small and is constantly surrounded by a crowd!
But, don’t worry as the Louvre is very large (in fact, it’s the largest museum in the world!) and is home to many, many other artworks! In fact, seeing the entire museum in one visit can be overwhelming so it’s best to plan your visit in advance and decide what you’d like to see beforehand. And, don’t forget to book your tickets online so you can avoid the long lines (especially during peak tourist season!).
Jardin des Tuileries
The Jardin des Tuileries (or the Tuileries Garden in English!) is a historic and picturesque public garden, located near the Louvre museum. The expansive gardens feature sculptures and statues, some of which date back to the 17th century, as well as several fountains and ponds.
The gardens are a beautiful place to relax, read a book, go for a stroll, have a picnic, or just enjoy the peaceful views outside of the bustling city streets!
Sacre Coeur Basilica
The Sacré-Cœur is an iconic 19th-century basilica located in Montmartre, the highest point in the city. The basilica’s impressive central dome stands 272 feet tall and visitors can climb the dome for a breathtaking view of Paris.
While I haven’t climbed the dome myself, the panoramic views of Paris from exterior of the Sacré Coeur are pretty spectacular and worth the trip alone!
Montmartre
One of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris, Montmartre is known for its charm. With cobblestone streets, quaint bistros, windmills and hilltop views, tourists flock to Montmartre for its picturesque appearance. It’s definitely not a “hidden gem” but it’s definitely worth a visit to experience one of Paris’ most scenic areas.
Montmartre also has a history for enchanting artists — Picasso, Manet, Renoir and Van Gogh are a few artists who have called this neighborhood home. Today, you can find plenty of art galleries, museums, and even street artists selling their work.
Moulin Rouge
If you’re interested in seeing a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge, this would be the best night to do so on this Paris travel itinerary as it’s located in Montmartre! Book a reservation for the dinner show at 7pm or the 9pm show if you’d just prefer to have drinks. The dancing and entertainment is dazzling and makes for a fun, unforgettable evening!
Day 3: Le Marais, Place des Vosges, Maison Victor Hugo & Picasso Museum
Le Marais
Le Marais has become one of my absolute favorite neighborhoods in the city and I would definitely spend a lovely day on your Paris travel itinerary here!
Located in the 4th arrondissement, Le Marais has undergone some distinct transformations; from a marshland, to the Jewish quarter, and then the home of Victor Hugo and other French elites. Le Marais is now a charming, historic, and trendy neighborhood known for its fashion, food, and nightlife.
Boutiques, antique stores, vintages shops, and art galleries line the cobblestone streets, and a buzzy atmosphere takes over the neighborhood at night.
Place des Vosges
Located in Le Marais, this peaceful and elegant square has the distinction of being the first planned square in the city of Paris. It’s four sides of covered porticos are home to elegant fine dining, art galleries, and even the former home of Victor Hugo. Boasting one of the more lovely smaller parks in Paris and a well attended Sunday market, Places des Vosges should not be missed in a visit to Le Marais!
Lunch at Carette
The absolutely magical aroma of butter and flour emanates from Carette, situated just off the park in Place des Vosges in Le Marais. Pastries will never steer you wrong, but keep an eye out for some more elegant fare as they also boast a traditional serving of hot chocolate with Chantilly creme, and even a selection of breakfast and lunch items for longer visits.
Maison Victor Hugo
Probably most well known for works such as Les Miserables and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, writer and poet Victor Hugo was a benchmark of the Le Marais “Hotel Peculiar,” a group of Parisian elite occupying the 4th arrondissement. And, there is probably no better place to indulge this era than Maison Victor Hugo, the eclectic apartment-turned-museum of the French literary icon.
Picasso Museum
Home to the renowned artists’ personal archive and over 5,000 unique works, this is subtly one of the best places in the world to enjoy Picasso. Situated in the heart of Le Marais, make sure not to miss this 4th arrondissement highlight during a day of exploring.
Dinner at Au Bourguignon du Marais
You know that feeling when you need a break from a long day of walking? Of saying yes to that glass of wine, that rich foie gras torchon or escargots, on a quiet corner off the main drag? Au Bourguignon du Marais is the perfect place to post up for a lovely meal and watch the steady but calming flow of dogs being walked, and people simply going about their day in Paris.
Alternatively, check out the Place Sainte-Catherine in Le Marais which is a charming cobblestone square lined with cute cafes with alfresco dining! Le Bistrot de la Place is lovely spot for dinner and Les Gamins is known for their brunch.
Day 4: Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, Île Saint-Louis, Jardin du Luxembourg
Notre Dame Cathedral
While the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral is set for late 2024, it’s still worth visiting to view it from the outside if you haven’t been before. This majestic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and is a prime example of French gothic architecture… and it took almost 100 years to complete!
Sainte-Chapelle
Located just a short walk away from the Notre Dame, on the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle (or the Holy Chapel) is another gothic style landmark. Dating back to the 1300’s, it is well known for a marvelous interior and more specifically, a renowned display of stained glass
Île Saint-Louis
Like Île de la Cité, the neighboring Île Saint-Louis is another small, natural island in the Seine River. Ile Saint Louis is a quiet, lesser-travelled gem of Paris. Filled with shops of all kinds, it’s surrounded by the Seine on all sides. The quiet, but rich-in-history island is bolstered by great architecture, essential artisans and passers-by, keeping the streets alive. There are also a few absolutely epic fine dining experiences to look out for.
Lunch at Poget & De Witte
While on Île Saint-Louis, stop at Poget & De Witte for an immersion into the rich brine of the French lowlands. Taste a selection of regional oysters and essential wines while taking a break in one of the more peaceful, elegant parts of Paris.
Macarons at Pierre Hermé
Next door is a delicious macaron shop by the famous French pastry chef, Pierre Hermé, and no Paris travel itinerary is complete without this quintessential French dessert. Stop by to grab some macarons and head down to Point de Seine and enjoy a sweet treat by the river!
Jardin du Luxembourg
Next stop: make your way through the Latin quarter to the Jardin du Luxbembourg.
Located in the heart of the famed 6th arrondissement, this pristine royal garden is a “don’t miss” park in Paris! These gardens date back to 1612 and feature the famed Medici Fountain (or “La Fontaine Médicis” in French). Jardin du Luxembourg is not only beautiful, but located in the heart of charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés, an essential neighborhood for any great tour of Paris.
Dinner at Bonvivant
While visiting Tulum a few years ago, we happened to meet the owner of this restaurant and decided to give it a try on our next visit to Paris. Of course, there are lots of good restaurants in Paris but Bonvivant really stands out with exceptional meats, wines, and a great local atmosphere… and now we eat there each time we’re in Paris!
In the bustling 5th arrondissement, Bonvivant quite literally refers to people who “live good” and that’s exactly what you can do there! Whether you indulge in massive, locally sourced tomahawk steak, or elegant regional small plates, your invitation to “Bonvivant” awaits.
Day 5: Palace of Versailles & Seine River Cruise
Palace of Versailles
With 5 days in France, you’ll have time for a visit to the Palace of Versailles — an incredible place for the last day of your Paris travel itinerary!
Journey back in time to the era of opulence and monarchy at this extravagant palace with its grand gardens.
Located just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is renowned for its Baroque architecture, expansive gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors (“Galerie des Glaces”), which features 357 mirrors and hundreds of crystal chandeliers. And outside, the palace is surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, which feature many beautiful fountains and sculptures.
The Palace of Versailles is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction. From Paris, visitors can hop on the RER C train that will take you to Chateau rive Gauche train station at Versailles in about an hour — depending on where you are coming from!
Seine River Cruise
End your final day in Paris with an evening on the River Seine! From no-frills cruises to fine-dining dinners, there are many cruise offerings along the river that allow you to soak in the sights of the city.
Le Calife is a popular fine-dining option for dinner on a Seine river cruise.
A beautiful wooden boat, incredible French cuisine, live Jazz music, and views of the sparking Eiffel Tower — what more could you want?!
Where to Stay in Paris
Looking for the best hotels in Paris? From luxury hotels to boutique lodging, here are my top picks in the city!
Luxury
- Cour des Vosges (4th arr.): This small upscale hotel has a prime location overlooking the iconic Place des Vosges in the charming Le Marais district. I’ve had the pleasure of staying here multiple times and I just love the heavenly beds, oversized bathtubs, rainfall showers, friendly staff, and location in one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city!
- Saint James Paris (16th arr.): Set in an elegant 18th century manor surrounded by lush private gardens, the Saint James isn’t your typical luxury hotel in the city… It feels more like you’re staying in a posh home rather than a hotel! I loved the stunning indoor spa pool, cozy library bar, and gorgeous terrace restaurant!
- Cheval Blanc Paris (1st arr.): This hotel is at the top of my bucket list! After staying at the spectacular Cheval Blanc hotel in St Barts, I’m dying to stay at the fabulous location in Paris. Cheval Blanc is known for their ultra-luxe amenities, dreamy modern aesthetic, and five-star service. One of the highlights of this hotel is their luxurious Dior spa!
- Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris (8th arr.): You can’t mention luxury hotels in Paris without including the fabulous George V hotel. They are known for their excellent service, luxury rooms with cloud-like beds, endless floral arrangements throughout the hotel, and, their restaurants have a collective total of 5 Michelin stars — pretty impressive, right?
- Le Meurice (1st arr.): This opulent hotel has a prime location along the Tuileries Gardens with a gorgeous rooftop terrace to take in the views of the city. The rooms are decorated in an 18th century style — giving it a very Château de Versailles vibe. And, the restaurant’s chef is Alain Ducasse, who is one of the world’s most decorated chefs with 21 Michelin stars!
- Le Narcisse Blanc (7th arr.): I loved my stay at this gorgeous hotel. Our room, Suite Aurore, was beautifully designed with a rooftop terrace looking out over the city! The neighborhood was charming and centrally located. Plus, they have a beautiful spa with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and hammam.
- Hotel de Crillon (8th arr.): While I haven’t had the chance to stay here yet, I have visited the hotel bar several times and love the vibe at this hotel! Located near the Tuileries Gardens, the Hotel de Crillon has an ideal location for exploring the city. The rooms have a modern, luxe aesthetic with grand marble bathrooms and a walk-in rain shower.. yes, please!
Mid-Range
- Les Rives de Notre-Dame (5th arr.): With just 10 stylish rooms, this hotel is has an intimate feel with highly attentive service. Located in the Latin Quarter, the guest rooms feature scenic views of the Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chappelle. Definitely a top pick for a romantic getaway!
- Les Jardins Du Luxembourg (5th arr.): This lovely hotel in the Latin Quarter features fun, modern design. Known for their well-appointed rooms with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and bathrooms featuring a rain shower, you’ll feel right at home here.
- Hôtel des Arts Montmartre (18th arr.): Do you love the Montmartre neighborhood? If so, then this charming hotel is an excellent option! Comfortable, well decorated rooms and a fabulous staff await you at this boutique hotel.
- Padam Hôtel (16th arr.): With a great location, just blocks from the Champs-Elysees, the Padam Hotel is known for their excellent service, modern rooms and delicious breakfast. One of the best parts about the rooms is the grand marble bathrooms with a walk-in shower!
- La Maison Gobert Paris Hotel Particulier (11th arr.): This lovely little bed & breakfast hotel is located in the heart of the lively 11th arrondissement with plenty of charming cafes, restaurants and shops. And, the hotel is known for its friendly service, comfortable rooms and great breakfast.
Budget
- Hôtel Moderniste (15th arr.): With an avant-garde aesthetic, this hotel feels very modern and hip. Located in the heart of the Convention district, this stay is decidedly away from the hubbub of the touristy areas but is just a few minutes from the metro.
- Beau M Paris (18th arr.): This hostel has dormitory style lodging and is known for its clean rooms, comfortable beds, and modern amenities. Guests also have the option to upgrade to a double or triple room with a private bathroom.
- Hotel Rendez-Vous Batignolles (17th arr.): A lovely boutique hotel with clean, comfortable rooms with a modern decor style. Guests love the location on a quiet street in the lively 17th arrondissement with easy access to the metro to connect you to the rest of Paris!
- Hôtel 31 – Paris Tour Eiffel (15th arr.): With an excellent location near the Eiffel Tower, this hotel is within walking distance to many shops and restaurants, as well as the metro. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and with modern amenities — plus, guests love the updated bathrooms!
Tips for Visiting Paris
Visiting Paris can be an incredible experience, but it’s always helpful to be prepared so your visit is memorable in all the right ways. Here are some tips to make your Paris travel itinerary smooth and enjoyable:
Learn Some Basic French Phrases
While many Parisians speak English, it’s appreciated when you make an effort to speak some basic French phrases like “hello” (bonjour), “please” (s’il vous plaît), and “thank you” (merci). It’s always polite to begin with “Parlez-vous anglais?” (or “do you speak English?”) instead of assuming!
Don’t Forget to Validate Your Metro Ticket
When using the Paris Métro, remember to validate your ticket at the entry gates or on the platforms before you board the train… failure to do so may result in a fine!
Use a Navigo Card
If you plan to use public transportation extensively, consider getting a Navigo card for unlimited travel within certain zones — it can be more cost-effective than purchasing individual tickets.
Plan Your Museum Visits in Advance
Popular museums like the Louvre can get crowded, so consider visiting early in the morning or later in the day to avoid long lines. You can also book tickets online in advance or get a Paris museum pass!
Watch Out for Pickpockets
Like in any major tourist destination, be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and use a secure bag. I like to use a small crossbody purse and keep the zipper in front where I can see it!
Enjoy French Cuisine
Try the local cuisine, including croissants, escargot, crêpes, and a variety of French cheeses. Don’t forget to enjoy a café au lait at a sidewalk café!
Tipping Etiquette
Service charges are often included in your bill at restaurants and tipping for good service is appreciated but not mandatory. It’s customary to leave small change or round up the bill as a tip, but you don’t need to leave 20% like in the US!
Respect Opening Hours
Many businesses and attractions in Paris have specific opening hours and may close for a few hours in the afternoon. Be sure to check the opening times in advance to plan your day effectively.
Embrace the Café Culture
Parisians love to sit at cafés and watch the world go by. Take the time to relax at a sidewalk café, enjoy a coffee or glass of wine, and soak in the atmosphere.
Be Patient
Paris can be busy, and lines at popular attractions can be long so make sure to plan accordingly. Similarly, service is generally slower paced than in the US — be sure to practice patience and take your time to savor the experience!
Validate Your VAT Refund
If you plan to make significant purchases, you may be eligible for a VAT refund when leaving the EU which can save you some money! Make sure that you complete the necessary paperwork and get customs validations.
What to Pack for Paris
I recommend dressing stylishly but comfortably! Parisians take fashion seriously, so you won’t want to dress too casually if you want to fit in. However, make sure to prioritize comfort, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking. And note that you won’t find many Parisians wearing athletic wear unless they are actually exercising or playing sports. And, they generally favor comfortable closed toe shoes for walking around the city!
The summer months can be hot and air-conditioning isn’t quite as popular as in the US so make sure to make light, breathable fabrics. Conversely, the winter months are cold so pack lots of layers: sweaters, jackets, boots, scarfs, gloves and hats.
That’s a wrap on the perfect Paris travel itinerary — now you know all the best places to visit in the city and it’s time to book your visit to the French Capital!
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