Updated 2026 · Day-by-day guide
Paris is a city best explored at a leisurely pace. On arrival, head to your hotel in the 1st, 4th, or 7th arrondissement for easy access to major attractions. Start with a walk through the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. From there, take a cab or metro to the Eiffel Tower, ideally in the late afternoon to catch the golden-hour views. Cross the Seine via the Pont des Arts, a poetic bridge lined with padlocks, and end the day in Montmartre, where the Sacré-Cœur sits atop a hill like a guardian of the city.
Day two should include a visit to the Louvre. Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. Spend the morning in the museum’s most iconic rooms—Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Egyptian Antiquities. Afterward, stroll down Rue de Rivoli to Place de la Bourse, then take a taxi to Notre-Dame Cathedral. Though still under restoration, the cathedral’s exterior and surrounding Île de la Cité are worth the visit. Cap the day with a Seine River cruise, which offers a romantic and picturesque overview of Paris’ landmarks.
Day three is museum-focused. Start with the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former train station, and known for its stunning Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections. From there, head to the Musée Rodin in the 7th arrondissement. The sculpture garden is a highlight, especially in spring. Later, visit the Centre Pompidou, a postmodern art museum in Beaubourg, for contemporary works and panoramic rooftop views.
On day four, take a detour to the Musée de l'Orangerie, just across from the Tuileries Garden, to see Monet’s Water Lilies. Afterward, walk through the Tuileries to the Place de la Concorde and the Egyptian obelisk. End the day with a visit to Shakespeare and Company, the iconic English-language bookshop in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. For dinner, try Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy bistro near the Latin Quarter offering classic French fare at reasonable prices.
Day five is about discovering Paris beyond the guidebooks. Start with the Marais, a vibrant neighborhood full of art galleries, vintage shops, and LGBTQ+ history. Don’t miss Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, a street lined with colorful façades. Lunch at Le Comptoir Général, a popular eatery with a mix of French and international dishes. In the afternoon, wander through Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, and visit the Musée Picasso, which holds an extensive collection of his works.
Day six should take you to Belleville or the 19th arrondissement. This multicultural area is full of energy, street art, and affordable eats. Start at Parc de Belleville for panoramic views of the city. Then explore the area’s bustling markets and cafés. For dinner, try La Belle Hortense, a beloved spot serving hearty French cuisine in a lively setting. The day is a perfect reminder that Paris is more than its landmarks—it’s the people, food, and neighborhoods that make it alive.
Day seven is ideal for a trip to Versailles, just 30 minutes from Paris by RER. The Palace of Versailles is grand and overwhelming, but a guided tour of the Hall of Mirrors is a must. Don’t forget to walk through the gardens or take a boat ride on the Grand Canal. Return to Paris in the late afternoon for a relaxed evening.
Day eight offers a choice. For wine lovers, a visit to the vineyards of Champagne is highly recommended (2.5 hours by train). Alternatively, take a train to Giverny, the village where Monet lived and painted the water lilies. The gardens are a dream in spring and fall. Both destinations offer unique experiences, but only one can be done in a day. Return to Paris and enjoy a quiet dinner at Le Jules Verne, located in the Eiffel Tower for a memorable farewell to the city.
Day nine is for shopping and relaxation. Head to Galeries Lafayette in the 1st arrondissement for a luxury shopping experience, or explore the vintage boutiques on Rue de Douai in the 10th. For souvenirs, visit the Marché des Enfants Rouges, a historic covered market with artisanal food and crafts. In the afternoon, take a walk through the Luxembourg Gardens, a peaceful place to reflect on your time in Paris. End with a traditional French macaron from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.
On day 10, give yourself time to check out and maybe do a last-minute walk through your favorite neighborhood. If your flight is in the afternoon, relax at a café like Café de Flore or Café de l’Abbaye. For a final view of the city, visit the Panthéon or take the funicular to Montmartre. Paris is a city that leaves a lasting impression, and even after 10 days, you’ll still be