What to See in Paris in 5 Days: The Ideal Itinerary, with Alternatives for Those Traveling with Family

Paris is such a cosmopolitan city rich in monuments, art, and culture that visiting it in just a few days may seem impossible. But with a little organization, it is absolutely feasible. So, what to see in Paris in a short amount of time? We'll guide you through this 5-day itinerary, covering iconic spots, hidden corners, and options for families, including a day at Disneyland. To experience the best of the city without compromises.

This first day may feel like a marathon worthy of an athlete, with plenty to do and see. We suggest a full schedule, but don't panic: you can easily skip anything you find excessive. We'll recount it just as it was for us - a feasible challenge, especially if you decide to skip museums and attractions to take it easier!

Our 5-day itinerary in Paris starts from the historic heart of the city, precisely from the Île de la Cité where Sainte-Chapelle is located, a gem of Gothic architecture worth visiting. Imagine that the church is made up of two superimposed chapels: the lower one, simpler but rich in polychrome decorations, was intended for the court staff; the upper one, reserved for the king, features stained glass that creates spectacular plays of light. Sainte-Chapelle is just a short walk from the Palace of Justice, the Conciergerie (note: on the north tower is the oldest clock in Paris, which has been functioning for over 600 years!) and Notre Dame Cathedral.

If you have the time or desire, it's worth deepening your visit to these splendid Parisian icons with a guided tour. In any case, don't miss the opportunity to stop at the impressive Notre-Dame, which recently reopened to the public after the devastating fire in 2019.

The walk continues on foot along the right bank of the Seine. In fact, to truly breathe and know the city, you must stroll along its river. The walk runs alongside the Louvre Museum with the Tuileries Gardens, the Orangerie, and Place de la Concorde. Again, if you desire, you can stop to visit the Louvre: with our tips, you'll be able to focus on the most important works in just a few hours. Alternatively, choose the Orangerie if you love Monet and the Impressionists, or relax while strolling through the Tuileries, among the most beautiful gardens of Paris equipped with play areas for children.

Following the bend of the Seine, you will pass by the Palais de la Découverte, a cultural and scientific center (currently closed to the public for renovation) to continue to Place de l'Alma and enter the luxurious avenue Montaigne that merges into the Champs Elysées up to the Arc de Triomphe. This is one of the most famous walks in the world among boutiques, nightclubs, wonderful palaces, cafés, and restaurants, an essential stop among the things to see in Paris. Proceeding along this famous avenue, you will encounter the Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the President of France.

From Charles De Gaulle Square, the walking tour continues to the Church of Saint-Augustin, reaching the impressive Opéra Garnier, where it's a must to stop for a coffee or a hot chocolate at Café de la Paix, which has hosted illustrious figures such as Zola, Wilde, Hemingway, and many others. If you want to surprise your kids, make a visit to the Chinese pastry shop/teahouse Long&tee at 39 Rue Lafayette, where the pastries and cakes are not only delicious but also beautiful (you'll find chocolate bears and dogs, and little mice shaped like mango cheese and much more).

The walk reaches the Church of the Madeleine which resembles a Greek temple, and the enchanting Place Vendôme. We suggest ending this first day in the Latin Quarter, where there are many charming views and walking its streets is a must.

This second-day itinerary starts at Châtelet, the bustling center of Paris and an important metro hub. In the neighborhood, you can visit the Church of Saint Eustache, Les Halles, the city's ancient market, the Centre Pompidou, a museum of modern and contemporary art (closed for major renovations until 2030), or the Museum of Illusions, which is loads of fun! Strolling through the streets of this neighborhood leads you to the beautiful city hall, Hôtel de Ville, where in winter a skating rink is set up in the square in front.

Châtelet borders the Marais and definitely deserves a visit; the Place des Vosges is just a step away from Bastille, where the modern opera house is located. You can't skip a stop at Crêperie Suzette on Rue des Francs Bourgeois, one of the main streets in Marais before arriving at Bastille. This is a very lively neighborhood, full of local bars, bistros, and cafés. From Bastille, the 'Promenade Plantée' begins, a long pedestrian path that used to be an elevated railway passing through residences, monuments, and squares, offering numerous views of Paris.

We recommend starting this day of our 5-day itinerary in Paris from 40 Rue de Bourgogne, after a hearty breakfast at Boulangerie du Musée, an excellent French bakery with moderate prices. Then continue along the left bank of the Seine where you will encounter beautiful and culturally rich palaces and monuments. If you love art, visit the Musée d'Orsay, home to masterpieces of Classicism and Impressionism up to Art Nouveau. If you prefer just to stroll, continue to the Palais Bourbon, the seat of the National Assembly not far from Place de la Concorde. From afar, you can also begin to see the impressive Esplanade des Invalides with the sumptuous Pont Alexandre III. Within the vast complex of the Invalides lies Napoleon's tomb.

From here, the Eiffel Tower is very close. It's worth going up to Trocadéro Square to admire the monument from another perspective, after which you must not miss the view of the city all lit up from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Climbing to the top truly is a breathtaking experience.

We reach Saint Germain de Près, one of the city's most elegant districts, and the magnificent Luxembourg Gardens, the green lung of Paris, an ideal place to relax on one of the classic green chairs or walk among statues and carefully tended flowerbeds.

The Latin Quarter is a corner of Paris that invites you to get lost, without hurry, following only your instinct and curiosity.

Pigalle is the famous red-light district of Paris, home to the historic Moulin Rouge, the cabaret with the iconic red windmill on the roof, a symbol of the Belle Époque. But that's not all; from here you can access Montmartre, the district of artists, painters, and poets. Walking up the hill, before reaching the bustling Place du Tertre, with its portraitists and caricaturists, and the imposing Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, you'll encounter several historically fascinating spots.

The vineyards of Montmartre, Clos Montmartre, represent a hidden bucolic corner in the heart of the city, where wine is still produced traditionally. You will also find Le Lapin Agile, one of the oldest cabarets in Paris, which was a favorite gathering spot for artists of the 19th century like Picasso, Modigliani, and Utrillo. A short distance away is La Maison Rose, a charming pastel-colored house and bustling café, and Le Moulin de la Galette, an ancient mill and now a restaurant, immortalized in famous Impressionist paintings like those by Renoir and Van Gogh.

Once you reach the top, the panoramic view of Paris is breathtaking, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.

Paris is a superlative city and truly offers everything: some of our suggestions will delight you, while others may not be to your taste, so we've left this last day a bit open for you to choose the perfect ending to your trip. Here are some ideas, even for those traveling with family:

If you enjoyed our walking itinerary, we recommend not missing out on some other less touristy spots: Start from Parc de la Villette, 55 acres of gardens, events, and attractions. There's the Cité des Sciences (which kids will love), the Zenith for concerts, the Geode (spherical cinema), and much more. The locals love it, especially on weekends. Then head to Belleville, the quintessential ethnic neighborhood, with scents of spices, Indian, Chinese, and Arabic shops. Get lost among its streets, but make sure to stop by Rue Denoyez, 150 meters of graffiti and urban art.

From lively Belleville, pass over to the tranquility of Père Lachaise Cemetery, where you can find the graves of Molière, Modigliani, and Jim Morrison (to name a few). Continue to Place de la Nation, a historic site now perfect for a crêpe at Le Canon de la Nation. End on a high note at Bercy Village: a former wine market, now a rustic-style brasserie and giant cinema. With nice weather, the outdoor tables make all the difference.

If you are with family, well... Disneyland Paris is the classic destination. A whole day in the most magical place there is: the kids will go wild, and even the adults (admit it).

When to go? Hard to say: every season has its charm. In summer, there are themed festivals and shows until late, while in winter, the atmosphere becomes a dream with snow and Christmas decorations. There are also major events: Halloween, Carnival, Easter... whatever time you choose, you'll take home something special.

Buy tickets in advance (you might find a flash sale) and check out the 1 Day / 2 Parks option, with the possibility of locking in the date. And if you change your mind last minute, no panic: they can be canceled up to 3 days in advance.

To get there from Paris, simply take the RER A: about 35 minutes from Nation station and you're at Marne-la-Vallée, right in front of the entrance.

If you've chosen a ticket + stay package at one of the Disney resorts or are sleeping nearby, treat yourself to breakfast with Disney characters: a hug for Mickey Mouse and off to the attractions!

If you love history, you can't miss the Palace of Versailles: just 20 km from Paris, a whole day immersed in the luxury of the French monarchy. Hall of Mirrors, Trianon, gardens, Chapel, Opera... Need we say more? All our tips are here: Useful Tips for Visiting the Palace of Versailles.

Even on the last day, Paris never ceases to amaze.