Paris 5-Day Itinerary - The Perfect First Trip to the City of Light

Paris is a city of delight and contrast. Known as the City of Light, it's no surprise that Paris glows with exquisite beauty and offers a unique experience to all its visitors. I have been to Paris twice now and every time I depart, the city leaves me in wonder and wanting more. Whether you're traveling to Paris to visit iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, or simply to soak up the culture, this seductive and vibrant destination has something for everyone. From its luxury boutiques, cafe culture, and beautiful parks - including the gardens at Versailles - you won't know where to start! It's easy to understand why so many who visit return with lifelong memories and anecdotes of experiences only found in truly magical places like Paris.

Paris is the perfect girl’s trip destination, romantic getaway, or family trip. Here is a pic of me and my bestie on our last trip to Paris!

Relatively safe and easy to get to, traveling to Paris is accessible for people all over the world. Being only 350 kilometers (200 mi) from London and having direct flights from most of Europe and the United States, getting to Paris will not break the bank or require too many stopovers.

Best time to visit

Paris is a city that can be explored at all times of the year. Even in its winter months, Paris has a relatively neutral temperature and will not be as busy or as expensive as it will be in the summer. You will for sure experience the crowds from May to September, but encounter the most people in July (followed closely by June and August). I recommend visiting between October and April if your main objective is to avoid crowds. For the warmest temperatures, October and April are the best times to visit Paris without all the herds of tourists

How to get there

I am a Going (used to be Scott’s Cheap Flight) stan, and since I first joined their newsletter, all our trips have been booked because of an email I received from Scott and his team. We booked this trip on New Year’s Eve this year for the following week and flights were still no more than $600 roundtrip from Washington DC (Dulles/IAD). If you have more time to plan your trip, you can score tickets as low as $300 from NYC or DC.

There are plenty of other ways to score cheap tickets on your own. I also use Skyscanner and play around with the dates in Google Flights. On Google Flights, there is an option to follow prices for your specific dates/locations and get email notifications when the prices change.

Currency

France is a member of the EU, so they use the Euro as its official currency. I definitely recommend using a currency converter (such as XE Currency on your cell phone or app on the web) to see what the currency rate is currently. At the time we traveled to Paris (and when I wrote this), the Euro was pretty close to the US Dollar at $1.09 for every 1.00€.

You can use credit or debit cards almost anywhere in Paris, and if not you will surely find an ATM within minutes. Keep around 100 Euro cash on you for smaller purchases. Be mindful of foreign transaction fees if your card has any. American Express is not widely accepted but can be used at chains like H&M, Starbucks, etc.

To get the best exchange rate, I also tell people to take out local currency at ATMs upon arrival and never ever through an exchange desk at the airport or from a bank in their home country. ATMs provide the best exchange rate, always!!!

Plugs

The plugs in France are Type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. Forget your curling iron and Dyson, these do not work in Europe and will damage your tools. Stick to blowouts using the hotel hair dryer. We fried a flatiron within minutes of arrival – thankfully it worked when we got back to the states.

Safety

During your time in Paris, it is important to note that like most cities, there are things you should be cognizant of at all times. As a global hub of culture and the capital of France, there is a chance that civil protests could occur in busy spaces such as city centers. Stay aware of your surroundings and watch out for gathering crowds. As Paris has a population of over two million, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. For this reason, I recommend wearing a smaller crossbody bag with a zipper. 

I felt completely safe in Paris during our travels, but there are political and economic struggles in the country that you should educate yourself on before traveling to France. Petty theft such as pickpocketing is something to be mindful of in the main tourist destinations. Use normal precautions to keep yourself and your family/friends safe. Always keep your valuables at your side, and don’t leave cameras, phones, or other expensive gear visible. Look out for groups of people, especially youths, who appear shifty or wear discreet clothing. If someone is asking you to sign a petition, this is a common tactic for pickpocketers and you should avoid them.

Getting to Paris

Depending on where you are starting your trip to Paris, you will either be arriving by airplane or train. 

Flying during covid was interesting to say the least. I am glad to not be wearing a mask for long-haul flights anymore.

By Air: 

Booking a direct flight to Paris is quite easy because flights depart from major airports in the United States and Europe daily. Coming from Europe, most of the flights will be operated by European budget airlines (RyanAir, Volotea, Aegean, etc.) and will be relatively cheap. Reading reviews of these airlines will make you uneasy, and rightfully so. These flights are often delayed or canceled and have a history of poor customer service. Just be wary of this when booking and you may want to purchase travel insurance when flying them.

By Train

Train fares are usually more expensive than plane tickets and the train takes longer so I highly recommend taking a plane if traveling from Europe. The train is a different experience and will allow you to see much of the countryside and the English Channel. Traveling by train from London to Paris is quick and easy traveling on Eurostar.

Where to Stay in Paris

Location: 

Wherever you stay in Paris, having access to a metro stop that services all the major tourist destinations is a must. No matter where you are staying, if you have access to the metro, you will only be minutes from your next destination at all times. Some of my favorite neighborhoods to stay in in Paris are St. Germaine, Le Marais, Montmartre, and Bastille.

Hotels:

Splurge: Four Seasons Hotel George V

Nestled in the heart of Paris and right off the Champs-Elysee lies the most decadent hotel. I had the plaisurrrr of staying here with my mother on my sweet sixteen in 2013. She is a travel agent and scored big with a travel agent rate on our stay. We saw countless celebrities and the food was unreal–they have three Michelin-star restaurants in the hotel. On my second visit to Paris, we didn’t stay here, but we still came to have drinks at their bar and it was such a fabulous experience.

I stayed at the George V Hotel with my mother for my sixteenth birthday and believe it is one of the experiences that made me love traveling so much. Nothing beats staying at a luxury hotel in Paris with your Mommy! I hope to take my daughters here for their sweet sixteens.

Mid-tier: Hotel Providence

Hotel Providence is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in the heart of Paris. Located near popular landmarks such as The Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral, Hotel Providence is close enough to attractions but far enough away that it feels like a sanctuary away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. Their rooms are modernly designed with marble bathrooms, king-size beds and complimentary wifi access throughout your stay. The hotel also provides excellent amenities such as a spa, gymnasium, and sauna that provide great relaxation after a long day exploring what Paris has to offer.  

Mid-Tier: Hotel Fabric

Hotel Fabric is the perfect option for those looking for something unique in their accommodation choice while still having easy access to attractions such as Montmartre Hill or Galeries Lafayette department store. This boutique hotel provides 3-star accommodation options at affordable prices complete with stylishly decorated décor as well as 24/7 room service available if needed! They also have an onsite restaurant that serves delicious breakfast options each morning that will allow you to start your day off right!

Budget: Hotel La Perle

For those looking for more affordable accommodation in the center of Paris then Hotel La Perle is perfect for you! Located near iconic landmarks such as Le Marais district and Place des Vosges Park this budget hotel offers basic double rooms with en suite bathrooms at reasonable prices. It also comes equipped with free Wifi throughout your stay as well as an onsite restaurant and bar perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring the city. 

Budget: Moxy Hotel Bastille

We stayed at the new Moxy hotel in Bastille on our last trip to Paris and it was great! The rooms were a little small, but we did not spend much time in them anyway. They have a fun bar area and it is a great alternative for young adult travelers. It is next to various metro stops providing you access to all parts of Paris within minutes by train or uber.

We enjoyed our stay at the Moxy Bastille Hotel. It was affordable, clean, and in a great location.

Day 1 - Redeye Landing and Paris Exploration

Morning - A Taste of Paris

You will probably be tired from your redeye flight, but you must resist the urge to go to bed until 9 or 10 pm tonight. This will ensure you properly acclimate to Paris’ time zone. Once in Paris, head from the airport to your hotel. You can either take a taxi or the train. The train is a lot less expensive, but harder to navigate, it will also take you a bit longer than a taxi. I recommend doing whatever you feel most comfortable with within your budget and willingness to explore public transit. Go directly to your hotel/accommodation and try for early check-in. Some hotels will offer it, so it is worth it to at least try. If this is not something your hotel is able to provide, drop off your bags and hit the town to explore. We scored an early check-in and dropped off our bags and freshened up a bit before heading out to explore the city.

Grab a quick breakfast at the hotel or somewhere close to it if you are waiting for your room to be ready or if you need a quick snack. Make your way to the Jardin des Tuileries. 

Taking the metro in Paris may seem daunting, but as long as you are aware of your surroundings and willing to learn, you will have no problem navigating the neighborhoods of Paris.

Jardin des Tuileries

This garden was designed by André Le Nôtre in 1664 and boasts over 860 trees and 2000 shrubs spread over 25 acres (10 hectares). It's a great place to spend an afternoon walking around admiring its landscaping or enjoying a picnic lunch among its lush greenery. You can also visit two museums located within its grounds—the Musée de l'Orangerie and Musée du Jeu de Paume—for a dose of art history during your visit. 

Shopping on Rue Saint-Honoré

This street is known as one of the city's premier shopping destinations, with luxury shops like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent located here. But there are also plenty of other options available for shoppers looking for unique finds from small boutiques and independent designers. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion pieces or something a bit more affordable, you're sure to find something that catches your eye on Rue Saint-Honoré.

Lunch at Cafe de Flore or Les Deux Magots

Cafe de Flore

The oldest cafe in Paris, Cafe de Flore dates back to 1887 and has hosted famous writers such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir, and Pablo Picasso. This traditional café has an old-world charm with high ceilings, large windows, and comfy furniture. It’s also well known for its delicious food and drinks – try its signature French onion soup or enjoy a classic cup of espresso.

Les Deux Magots

Another historic cafe with plenty of character, Les Deux Magots was founded in 1873 by two Spanish brothers who wanted to create a place where Parisians could meet up for coffee and conversation. Today it remains one of the most popular spots for locals and tourists alike who come here to sip espressos while people watch from its cozy tables. Plus they serve up delicious dishes like croque monsieur (French toast) or steak tartare that you can enjoy with your beverage of choice.

Afternoon - The D’Orsay Museum and the Eiffel Tower

Seeing famous works of art in person at the Musee D’Orsay is so much fun and I could have explored the museums in France for weeks.

Musée d’Orsay

Musée d'Orsay This museum is located inside an old train station and features many impressionist and post-impressionist works from artists like Monet, Renoir, Cezanne and Manet. It also houses sculptures from Rodin as well as furniture and decorative arts from the 19th century. The museum itself is an attraction due to its unique architecture, which makes it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Paris!   Musée Rodin Another popular spot for tourists is Musée Rodin. Located in a beautiful garden setting just outside the city center, this museum houses some of Auguste Rodin's greatest works such as The Thinker and The Kiss. Not only can you admire these iconic sculptures but you can also explore some lesser-known pieces by other famous sculptors like Antoine Bourdelle and Camille Claudel. 

The Eiffel Tower

Standing in front of the Eiffel Tower never ceases to amaze me and feel thankful for being able to travel the world.

The moment you have been waiting for in seeing the Eiffel Tower is finally here!!! The best photo spot in my opinion is Rue de l'Universite. There will be other tourists here, but it is the perfect spot to take a picture with the Eiffel Tower. Here, you get a really cool view and instagrammable photo of the Eiffel Tower between the buildings. After you have had your photoshoot, walk under the Eiffel Tower to take an elevator to the top. You can either buy a ticket at the concession there or book ahead of time. I recommend booking ahead of time here, so you can ensure you can visit at your desired time. 

Tickets:

Adults over 25:

  • 18,10€ - for elevator access (do this unless you want to climb all the stairs to the top)

  • 11,30€ - for stairs

Students/Young Adults (12-24 years):

  • 9.00€ - for elevator access

  • 5,60€ - for stairs

Children (4-11 years old):

  • 4.50€ - for elevator access

  • 2,80€ - for stairs

Children under 4 are free!

Evening

Dinner at Bambini

After you have had your fill of photos of the Eiffel Tower, it is time to fill your body with delicious food at Bambini. Located very close to the Eiffel Tower you can find this restaurant with an amazing atmosphere and fabulous food. During the warmer months, you can even score a table outside with an Eiffel Tower view.

After dinner, head home and try to stay awake as long as feasibly possible to avoid jetlag.

Bambini Restaurant is next to the Eiffel Tower and has a vibrant and lively atmosphere with even better tasting food.

Day 2 - The Louvre Museum

Morning - Breakfast Next to the Louvre

Start your day by heading to Café Marly for a fantastic brunch with views of the Louvre museum from your table. It is definitely an overpriced tourist trap, but I recommend it for those who really want some cool pictures and need a good spot for breakfast.

Located right next door to the Louvre Museum on the Rue de Rivoli, Café Marly is one of the city's trendiest spots offering stunning views of the museum's iconic pyramid structure. This chic café serves up traditional French cuisine alongside cocktails, champagne, and other libations perfect for a good instagrammable start to your day.

Le Cafe Marley is a total tourist trap and the food is not very good, but come on and look at this view!!!

The Louvre Museum

Queueing in line to see Mona! The last time I was here, there was no line, but I thought this new process was a lot more effective.

No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the iconic Louvre Museum. When most people think of Paris, they think of the famous Louvre Museum. Home to more than 35,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa, this museum is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Paris. You can easily spend an entire day wandering around this fantastic place. There are many exhibits featuring antiquities from Egypt and Greece alongside modern art from popular artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. 

Home to some of the world's most famous works of art, including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the Louvre is an absolute must-visit for any art aficionado. However, if large crowds aren't really your thing, plan your visit for early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid long lines. If you'd like a guided tour of the museum, there are also plenty of tours available that offer insight into its extensive collection.

Tickets

The Louvre Museum is a place that I wish I had a week to explore. My favorite part was seeing the crown jewels and Napolean’s Apartment.

  • Adult tickets purchased online - 17€

  • Adult tickets purchased at the museum - 15€

  • Limited number available during off-peak times

  • Anyone under 18 years old - FREE

  • 18 - 25 years old (European Union) -  FREE

Notre Dame & Sainte-Chapelle

Notre Dame is closed until 2025 due to the horrific fire that broke out in 2018. You can still get relatively close to it and it is a marvel even from the exterior. Instead of heading into Notre Dame, check out her little sister: Sainte-Chapelle. The Sainte-Chapelle is a royal chapel in the Gothic style, within the medieval Palais de la Cité, the residence of the Kings of France until the 14th century, on the Île de la Cité in the River Seine in Paris, France. Construction began sometime after 1238 and the chapel was consecrated on 26 April 1248. Now it is no longer an active church which made me kind of sad, but it is still beautiful to pay a visit.

Tickets

  • Adult - 11,50€

  • Anyone under 18 years old - FREE

  • 18 - 25 years old (European Union) - FREE

During the fire that took place in Notre Dame in 2018, I sat in the office kitchen at work watching the news and crying. This beautiful masterpiece is set to reopen in 2024.

Shakespeare & Company

Walk across the bridge to the Latin Quarter and head to Shakespeare & Company. For any book lover, this will be your new favorite bookstore. With a rich history opening in 1951, Shakespeare and Company attract visitors from all over the world. Read more about its rich history on their website

Shakespeare and Company is an English-language bookshop in the heart of Paris, on the banks of the Seine, opposite Notre-Dame. Since opening in 1951, it’s been a meeting place for anglophone writers and readers, becoming a Left Bank literary institut

Any bookworm will find Shakespeare & Company to be one of their favorite stores in Paris. Famed for housing famous writers and poets, this little shop is keen to make anyone feel inspired to read a little more.

Le Quartier Latin

This neighborhood is located near the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank side of Paris. It has a vibrant atmosphere filled with students from nearby universities like Sorbonne University or Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris (IPGP). The Quartier Latin offers lots of trendy cafes and restaurants that offer both traditional French cuisine as well as international flavors from around the world. There are also plenty of unique boutiques selling clothing, accessories, books, and more.

Discover Local Markets and Boutiques in St. Germain

If you're looking for souvenirs or just want to experience local culture firsthand, check out one of Paris' many markets and boutiques. Don’t miss Rue Cler (famous for its fresh produce) and Les Puces de Saint-Ouen (the largest flea market in Europe!). 

Dinner or drinks at Buddha Bar 

Buddha Bar is the perfect spot to see and be seen in Paris. It is an ultra-chic restaurant/bar that turns into a party in the after-hours. If you can score a table here, be prepared to spend a bit of money and dress for the occasion. The food and atmosphere were fantastic and we met some friends that we enjoyed the rest of the night.

Champs Élysées

No trip to Paris is complete without a shopping spree on the Champs-Élysées. Located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, this 1.9 kilometers long and 70 meters wide avenue spans from the Place de la Concorde in the east and the Place Charles de Gaulle in the west. This is where the Arc de Triomphe is located and definitely a spot that should not be missed on your trip to Paris. Here you will find all the luxury brands your heart could ever dream of. The displays are extravagant and even if you do not buy anything, this spot is so much fun to explore.

Champs-Élysées is among the most famous shopping streets in Paris with a variety of famous brands on it for every budget. Because of Paris reputation of being the capital of fashion, there are lots of people from all over the world visiting Paris wit

Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous shopping streets in Paris and home to all the famous luxury brands. As the capital of fashion, there are travelers from all over the world visiting Paris who solely came to shop on this street. Go buy that Dior bag, girl!

The Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, with the names of all French victories and generals inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Under its vault lies the Tomb of the

The Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile is one of the most famous monuments in Paris, France, standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly named Place de l'Étoile—the étoile or "star" of the juncture formed by its twelve radiating avenues

Day 3 - Versailles Day Trip

Morning - Day trip to Versailles

The Hall of Mirrors in Versailles is an iconic chamber that houses priceless artwork and decor. This is the room where the Treaty of Versailles was signed.

For those who want to get a glimpse into French royalty, Versailles is an absolute must-see destination when visiting France. It was once home to King Louis XIV and his courtiers, but today it has been turned into an impressive palace complex open for tours and sightseeing activities. Visitors can admire the grandeur rooms filled with fine furniture, paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and other artifacts collected by Louis XIV throughout his reign. They can also stroll through the expansive French formal gardens or take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the palace grounds before heading back into Paris late in the evening after their day trip concludes. 

Getting to Versailles

Getting to Versailles from Paris can be a bit of a hassle if you do not plan ahead. There are several different options for those seeking to visit the luxurious Versailles. 

By Tour

The easiest and most stress-free way to get to Versailles Palace is to join a group tour that includes transportation from Paris on a luxury coach or train.  Then, all you have to do is show up at a designated meeting spot in central Paris. 

By Train

Although there are three different train lines that can take you to Versailles, only the RER C train stops at the Château Versailles Rive Gauche, the closest station to the front entrance gates at the Palace of Versailles. The SNCF Lines L and N can also get you pretty close to the palace, but it all depends on where you are boarding the train in the city and whichever has the closest stop to you.   It takes around 25-30 minutes on RER C and SNCF Line N, and between 35-40 minutes on SNCF Line L. This is the best way to see Versailles if you want to explore on your own without the burden of a tour group.

By Car/Ride-Share

To get to Versailles from Paris, a one-way trip by Uber or taxi will typically cost you at least 40€ - 50€, assuming you aren’t trapped in one of the very likely Paris traffic jams. 

Tickets

To access the Palace, all visitors must book a time slot. Due to the high number of visitors, admission to the Palace within half an hour of the booked time slot can only be guaranteed for tickets purchased online.

  • Adults - 18+: 21.50€

  • Under 18 - Free Admission

versailles palace has the room of mirrors and lots of gardens where marie antoinette said let them eat cake

The gardens behind the palace of Versailles could take you an entire week to fully explore. If you travel to Versailles in the spring, be sure to experience these gardens while they are in full-bloom. Marie Antoinette’s house is located here.

Dinner at Domenico’s

Located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, Domenico's is a warm and authentic restaurant, which promises you a taste experience inspired by its Italian roots. They import all their ingredients from Italy and their food is sure to please all.

Evening - Moulin Rouge

We ate brunch at Season Marais and had delicious breakfast and smoothies that energized us for the entire day.

You have certainly heard of Moulin Rouge, so why not visit the real deal show in Paris? Located in the 19th arrondissement and southwest of our later visited Montmartre, lies the (in)famous cabaret show: Moulin Rouge. See for yourself why this show has been around since the late 1800s and report back to me what you think. I still have yet to see this live and I am dying to go on my next trip to Paris.

Day 4 - Montmartre

Morning - Breakfast at Season Marais

This trendy brunch spot focuses on healthy American eating with a french twist. If you can score reservations, this is the perfect way to start your day. I had a spectacular iced coffee and salad bowl that I still dream about months later.

Explore Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris—and arguably one of its most picturesque—with winding cobblestone streets and quaint cafes perfect for people watching. You can also take a ride up to Sacré-Cœur Basilica via funicular and soak up stunning views of the city from above. Be sure to take some time out of your day to wander around Montmartre's streets—you never know what hidden gems you'll find! Located on a hill in the northern part of Paris, Montmartre is a destination that is both romantic and nostalgic. The area has been home to some of the world’s most revered artists, writers, musicians, and filmmakers throughout its long history. 

Montmartre is one of Paris' most charming neighborhoods with something special around every corner. This iconic destination's rich artistic heritage makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore centuries-old monuments while also taking

Montmartre is one of Paris' most charming neighborhoods with something special around every corner. This iconic destination's rich artistic heritage makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore centuries-old monuments while also taking part in modern activities like shopping and dining out at one of its many eateries or bars. Whether you're planning a daytrip or an extended stay in France's capital city, make sure you add Montmartre to your list!

Montmartre has been known as an artistic hub since the late 1800s when it was home to many avant-garde painters and writers such as Vincent van Gogh and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Today, visitors can explore the many galleries and museums that showcase the works of these celebrated artists. There are also numerous churches located throughout the area that have served as inspiration for some of the greatest works of art in history.

Do not miss Emily in Paris filming locations: La Maison Rose and Le Consulat Restaurant. Even if you haven’t seen the show, they are the perfect backdrop for your Montmartre insta!

Climb to the top of Sacre Couer

Nothing will take your breath away quite like a trip up the stairs to the top of Sacre Couer…no literally, you will be out of breath. There are 300 steps to get to the top. The view is magnificent and you can get a lovely bird’s eye view of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in the distance. If you are relatively in shape, you cannot miss the experience of climbing to the top of Sacre Couer.

monmartre has the most instagrammable paris location at the top of the sacre coeur cathedral for visiting in paris is is catholic and great for climbing

Views from the top of Sacre Coeur are out of this world. You can even see the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in the distance. For anyone relatively in shape, you should certainly climb to the top of Montmartre for these views.

Lunch - Pink Mamma

This iconic spot is popular among influencers for its beautiful ambiance and even more delicious food. If you are looking to gain back the calories you burned from climbing the steps to Sacre Couer, look no further than to dine at Pink Mamma.

Afternoon - Shopping & Dining

Of course, no trip to Montmartre would be complete without exploring its many boutiques and restaurants! From vintage clothing stores to specialty food shops selling French delicacies like macarons and foie gras, there are plenty of unique opportunities for shopping and dining here. For those looking for traditional souvenirs or gifts, there are several craft markets open every weekend offering handmade items ranging from jewelry to pottery.

Dinner at Le Chalet Savoyard

My best friend was dying to try some authentic French fondue. One of my coworkers lives in Paris and recommended this spot to us. We were obsessed! The food and atmosphere are so fun and it was the perfect dinner. Make sure you try their cheese fondue - it is to die for. Be prepared to speak a little french when ordering and getting seated. This place is legit!

le chalet savoyard, paris, fondue, cheese fondue restaurant in paris, best fondue in paris

Dinner at Le Chalet Savoyard was out of this world. Anyone seeking authentic fondue in a warm and inviting atmosphere should make a reservation for this spot.

Day 5 - Catacombs & Shopping

Morning - Brunch at one of the cafes you missed

There are so many cafes and brunch spots scattered throughout Paris that you will never be able to try them all. I suggest you revisit one that spoke to you and have your final cafe du lait in Parisian paradise. Some cafes I recommend are Carrette (their hot chocolate OMG), Odette, Maison Sauvage, and the ones I mentioned above.

Catacombs of Paris

The underground of Paris is a world of its own. They have entire mini-cities located in the tunnels underneath Paris (read Paris’ urban exploration thread on Reddit). One of the great mysterious places to visit under Paris (legally) is the Catacombs. The Catacombs of Paris are underground ossuaries in Paris, France, which hold the remains of more than six million people built to reduce the overflow of bodies during the late eighteenth century. Today, you can only visit about a one-mile stretch of the Catacombs, but it is definitely worth a visit for those interested in a spookier side of Paris. Tickets range from 27 to 29€ for adult visitors and can be purchased on their website.

Shopping at Galleries Lafayette

Your final stop in Paris will be to pick up any last-minute gifts for your loved ones at home (or yourself) at the epic shopping center of Galleries Lafayette. Depending on the time you visit, the Galleries Lafayette will most likely be extremely busy and hard to navigate. Spend as much or as little of your time exploring the shops, but make sure not to miss a visit to Laduree before you go. There are several locations in Paris, but their macarons just hit differently, so don’t skip this.

No trip to Paris is complete without stopping for some dessert (or a snack) at Laduree. This one we visited was in the Galleries Lafayette.

The epic mall that is Galleries Lafayette is sure to make any shopping-lover cry out with joy. The first time I visited this shopping center, I was blown away at all the incredible items they have that are not available in the United States.

Dinner at Septime

For your final night in Paris, you will enjoy a truly special dining experience at Septime. Located in the 11th arrondissement, this restaurant offers an ever-changing menu that features dishes made with fresh ingredients from local producers. Plus, they have an impressive selection of natural wines so you can pair your meal perfectly.

Well, that wraps up our Paris trip!!! Paris is full of exciting experiences for anyone looking to explore all it has to offer. Whether you want to explore its iconic landmarks or shop in some of its chicest stores, Paris will fulfill all your wanderlust dreams. The next time you visit this beautiful city be sure to check out the activities I shared so that you can get the most out of your stay in the beautiful City of Light!

rue de luniversite in paris for eiffel tower best view most instagrammable

For the best views of the Eiffel Tower, check out Rue de l’Universite alongside all the other tourists in Paris

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