Visit Paris in a week: full itinerary and practical tips
Paris, the City of Light, is the ideal destination for those wishing to visit Paris in a week. The capital abounds in emblematic monuments, fascinating museums, picturesque neighborhoods and gourmet delights. A week allows you to explore the city in depth while enjoying its unique atmosphere. Here’s a detailed itinerary to optimize your stay and make sure you don’t miss out on any of Paris’ must-sees!
🏛️ Day 1: Discover the historic center
- Morning: Start your tour on the Île de la Cité. Visit Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral (currently under restoration, but still impressive from the outside) (free), then explore the Sainte-Chapelle and its magnificent stained-glass windows (ticket ~13€ / 14$ / 100¥).
- Afternoon: Stroll through the Marais district. Discover the Place des Vosges, the Carnavalet museum (free) and the Centre Pompidou (ticket ~14€ / $15 / ¥110) for its modern art and panoramic views.
- Evening Dine in a typical Marais bistro (~30€ / $32 / ¥240 per person).
🗼 Day 2: Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées
- Morning: Head for the Eiffel Tower! Climb to its summit for a spectacular view (ticket ~29€ / $31 / ¥230). Then stroll along the Champ-de-Mars and Trocadéro gardens.
- Afternoon: Stroll along the Champs-Élysées avenue, stop off at the Arc de Triomphe (ticket ~13€ / $14 / ¥100) and visit the Petit and Grand Palais (ticket ~14€ / $15 / ¥110).
- Evening: Dinner on a Seine River barge (~60€ / 65$ / 480¥ per person) for a romantic evening.
🎨 Day 3: Cultural day at the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens
- Morning: Spend the morning at the Louvre (ticket ~17€ / 18$ / 130¥). Admire the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and many other iconic works.
- Afternoon: Relax in the Tuileries Gardens, visit the Musée de l’Orangerie (ticket ~12€ / 13$ / 95¥) then stroll to the Place de la Concorde.
- Evening: Show at the theater or Opéra Garnier (~50€ / 55$ / 400¥ per person).
🎭 D ay 4: Montmartre and Pigalle
- Morning: Head up to Montmartre. Discover the Sacré-Coeur (free), Place du Tertre and its artists, then explore the charming little streets.
- Afternoon: Visit the Musée de Montmartre (~12€ / 13$ / 95¥), then head down to Pigalle to see the famous Moulin Rouge.
- Evening: Evening at a trendy cabaret or cocktail bar (~80€ / 85$ / 640¥ per person at the Moulin Rouge).
🏛️ Day 5: Musée d’Orsay and Latin Quarter
- Morning: Immerse yourself in Impressionism at the Musée d’Orsay (ticket ~16€ / 17$ / 120¥).
- Afternoon: Head for the Latin Quarter! Visit the Pantheon (~11€ / 12$ / 87¥), the Sorbonne and the Luxembourg gardens.
- Evening: Dinner in a historic brasserie (~40€ / $43 / ¥320 per person).
👑 Day 6: Excursion to Versailles
- Full day: leave early to visit the Palace of Versailles (ticket ~19€ / $20 / ¥145). Don’t miss the Galerie des Glaces and the magnificent gardens (access to the gardens free except on show days).
- Evening : Return to Paris for a leisurely dinner (~35€ / 38$ / 280¥ per person).
🛍️ Day 7: Last discoveries and shopping
- Morning: Explore the Père-Lachaise cemetery or the Bastille district.
- Afternoon: Shop at Galeries Lafayette or Le Bon Marché.
- Evening: Final dinner in a gourmet restaurant or rooftop overlooking Paris (~70€ / $75 / ¥560 per person).
📝 Practical tips
- Transport: Opt for a Navigo pass (€22.80 / $25 / ¥180 for one week) to make your metro and bus journeys easier.
- Reservations: Book your tickets for museums and monuments in advance to avoid queues.
- Ideal period: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to enjoy Paris to the full.
With this itinerary, you’ll discover Paris from every angle, from culture and history to relaxation and gastronomy. Visiting Paris in a week allows you to fully immerse yourself in the capital’s unique atmosphere and explore its many treasures at a balanced pace. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff or simply in search of a culinary and romantic experience, Paris will meet all your expectations.
By planning your stay well and booking your tickets in advance, you’ll optimize your time and avoid long queues. Don’t hesitate to lose yourself in the picturesque little streets, sample the local specialities and enjoy every moment in this magical city. Enjoy your trip and make the most of your week in Paris!