7-Day Itinerary in Paris for the Whole Family Plus Top Paris Cafes

Traveling doesn’t have to be complicated, especially in romantic cities like Paris. The French capital might feel like a tricky maze until you know how to maneuver around it. This includes preparing a solid travel plan before your arrival. Now, you might wonder how long you must spend in the city, where to go, and what to see. While the length of your trip depends on your preferences, you can usually cover the city highlights within 4-5 days. But if you are on an extended vacation and want to travel leisurely, check out this 7-day Itinerary in Paris: A step-by-step guide for a week-long expedition.

Also Read:

• 14 Best Restaurants in Maui
• Paris 40 Things to Do Any Time of the Year
• Top 9 Things to Do at Night in Paris

Things To Know About Paris

The beautiful Paris is among the top travel destinations worldwide. It is France‘s capital and the largest city, with over 11 million residents. It has many nicknames, including the City of Lights, City of Art, and City of Love. Each symbolizes and reflects Paris’ artistic history, culture, and romantic traditions. The city attracts visitors with its grand boulevards, world-class art museums, beautiful parks, and magnificent cathedrals. Its gourmet cuisine and glamorous fashion scene further add to its charm. So, whether you are on a romantic vacation or a solo/family excursion, there is something for everyone here.

Now that you’ve decided to visit Paris, there are specific things you must know beforehand. These include language, transportation, accommodations, attractions, weather, and etiquette. Here are some helpful travel tips for a Paris itinerary:

• Best Time To Visit Paris: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November)
• Best Area To Stay In Paris: 1st Arrondissement, Montmartre, Le Marais, Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Pres
• What To See In Paris: The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, Seine River, the Louvre Museum
• Transportation: Use public transport or rent private vehicles via Klook, Rentalcars, and QUEEQ.
• Language: Parisians primarily speak French. Although you don’t have to be fluent in the language, learn basic phrases like Bonjour (Hello) and Merci (Thank you).
• Etiquette: Instead of a handshake, greet each other by kissing each cheek. Don’t be overly loud, and be aware of cultural differences.
• Weather: Paris’ weather can be unpredictable; always check weather forecasts.

Budgeting For Paris Travel

There is no debate that Paris is an expensive travel destination. While not completely draining your bank account, your expenses might exceed your expectations if not planned well. Hence, you must prepare a budget plan, considering every factor, including transportation, accommodation, and food, to ensure you can travel without overspending. Still, you can expect to spend $271 on average per day.

Transportation

When planning a budget, you must consider transportation first. It’s almost impossible to explore a gigantic city like Paris on foot. The town has a reliable public transportation system, the RATP, which operates the metro, buses, trams, and RER express trains. It offers various travel passes and tickets, including the Metro-Train-RER ticket (€2.50($2.57)), Bus-Tram ticket (€2 ($2.06)), and Paris Region-Airport ticket (€13($13.38)). The best way to travel on a budget is through the Paris Visite Package. This pass allows unlimited travel within specified zones for 1 to 5 consecutive days. Check out its prices below:

Days	Adults	Children
1	€29.90 ($30)	€14.95 ($15.39)
2	€44.45 ($45.76)	€22.20 ($22.85)
3	€62.30 ($64.14)	€31.15 ($32.07)
5	€76.25 ($78.50)	€38.10 ($39.22)

You will also find many private transportation options, including taxis, rideshares, and rentals.

Accommodation

Upon arrival, you will need to find accommodation. This is easier said than done since Paris has hundreds of properties in its neighborhoods. Finding the one that fits your budget and preferences is like searching for a needle in a haystack. Book your stay in advance through reliable hotel sites like Agoda and Booking.com. If you want budget-friendly accommodation, HostelWorld and Airbnb are your options. That said, you can expect to pay $100 per night in 2 to 3-star hotels, whereas luxury hotels charge from $450 onwards.

Food

Did you know Paris is the second city with the most Michelin Stars in the world? The MICHELIN Guide 2024 recorded the city has no less than 121-starred restaurants. These do not include the French capital’s numerous coffee shops, bakeries, food stalls, cocktail bars, and local eateries. So, eating out is considerably expensive in Paris, with a gourmet restaurant meal costing between €100 to €150 ($102-154)or higher. Nonetheless, you can find a budget-friendly meal for €20 ($20.59) in affordable restaurants and €8 ($8.24)in fast-food joints. Dinner cruises or food tours might cost more depending on the tour operators.

Instead of going through hundreds of sites, check out affordable food tours in AI-driven TourTeller. While comparing prices, go through AI-summarized reviews to find the one that fits your requirements.

7-Day Itinerary in Paris: Day 1: Arrival And Montmartre

Our trip begins upon arrival at the City of Lights. You will first check into your hotel and prepare for the incredible first day in Paris. The first destination is the charming Montmartre neighborhood. This hipster district is home to iconic historical landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This Catholic church is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is at the top of Montmartre butte and overlooks Paris and its suburbs. Stroll the district’s streets and explore its attractions on foot. You can also stop by a cafe for snacks and refreshments.

Visit Place du Tertre

• Address: Pl. du Tertre, 75018 Paris, France; Google Map
• Things To Do: Requesting sketch painting, buying artwork, checking out paintings

Continue your Montmartre expedition at the Place du Tertre. This cafe-lined cobbled square, also called the artists’ square, is lively with buskers, local sketch artists, and painters. Many offer to sketch or paint portraits of visitors. You can choose from caricatures or realistic portraits, with prices ranging from €50 to €60 and higher. You can also buy artwork from these artists. This public square pays homage to Montmartre’s artistic past when painters like Pablo Picasso, Maurice Utrillo, and Amedeo Modigliani once lived and thrived here.

Catch Moulin Rouge Show In The Evening

• Address: 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 6:45 PM – 1 AM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Your first day in Paris should not end just like that. Turn your dull evening into a magical one with the electrifying Moulin Rouge show. This cabaret is one of the oldest French cabarets that operates year-round. Expect sizzling performances, talented actors, acrobats, and sumptuous costumes with many feathers. It showcases the Feerie show, a composition of four paintings or acts. These include the sleeping garden of the Moulin, pirates in Indonesia, the Circus Troupe in Paris, and a tribute to Parisian women from 1900 to the present day.

Day 2: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, And Seine River

• Address: Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 12 AM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

After a good night’s sleep, prepare for a jam-packed second day in Paris. You will begin your morning with a visit to the city’s most romantic site, the Eiffel Tower. This 330-meter is known for its beauty and unique architectural features that expand and reduce its size in summer and winter. It offers stunning views from its first and second floors. You can ascend 327 steps to the first floor or reach the top observation deck after 674 steps. Skip the lines by purchasing advance tickets through reliable sites like Viator, GetYourGuide, or Musement.

See The Louvre Museum’s Masterpieces

• Address: 75001 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Visit the legendary Louvre Museum in the afternoon. This national museum stands out with its architectural beauty, and a glass pyramid has only added charm. This museum houses many masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa portrait. While you can find copies elsewhere, the original is only at the Louvre. Other significant collections include the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, The Wedding Feast at Cana, and Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss.

Book A Romantic Seine River Dinner Cruise

• Address: France; Google Map
• Cruise Duration: 1 – 2 hours
• Dinner Cruise Cost: $118 onwards

Your itinerary for the day is still not complete. Spend your evening with a romantic dinner cruise down the Seine River. These scenic dinner cruises offer nighttime views of the Eiffel Tower, bridges, and historic quays. It offers a selection of a 3-course meal or gourmet dinner with optional champagne, wine, or other beverages. You can elevate your experience with priority seating and live music. You can also choose from night, family, and special event cruises.

Day 3: Notre-Dame And Latin Quarter

The third day is all about immersing yourself in Parisian culture. You will visit notable historic landmarks, beginning with the infamous Notre Dame Cathedral. It is known for its Gothic architecture, pioneering rib vaults, and flying buttresses. The cathedral looks magnificent, from its pointed arches to large rose windows, intricate sculptures, ribbed vaults, and massive fountains. Hence, it’s no wonder its construction spanned over two hundred years. The cathedral also houses significant religious artifacts like the Crown of Thorns.

Check Out The Legendary Pantheon

Latin Quarter is a neighborhood full of surprises. It is primarily known for its 18th-century built Pantheon. This monument was initially devoted to Paris’s patron saint, Saint Genevieve. Later, it was transformed into a mausoleum for notable figures from the French Revolution. As such, the Pantheon houses the remains of 70+ renowned French personalities, including Victor Hugo, Jean Moulin, Voltaire, Marie Curie, Emile Zola, and Jean Jacques Rousseau. In addition to learning about these individuals, you can catch panoramic city views from the top of the monument’s colonnade.

Stop And Smell Flowers At The Luxembourg Gardens

• Address: 75006 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 8:15 AM – 4:45 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Our next stop will be the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens in the Latin Quarter. This gigantic garden is spread across 23 hectares and features 3,000 trees of diverse essences and 5,000 m² of flower beds. It also has an orchard housing 500+ ancient species of pear and apple trees and beautiful orchids. Many statues are scattered across this vast green space. The ideal times to visit Luxembourg Gardens are Spring (when the flowers are in full bloom) and fall (to see autumn hues).

You can retire to your hotel room for a good night’s sleep or check out the infamous Paradis Latin. The cabaret showcases Kamel Ouali’s L’Oiseau Paradise from 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Day 4: Champs-Élysées And Grand Palais

The historic Champs-Élysées spread across 1.9 km, is one of the city’s most beautiful avenues. It is known for its wide boulevards featuring shops, cinemas, cafes, restaurants, department stores, and imposing buildings. It is also home to many iconic historical landmarks. Hence, Day 4 will be about exploring this Parisian avenue and its notable attractions.

Climb To The Top Of Arc de Triomphe

The Champs-Élysées connects the infamous Arc de Triomphe with the Place de la Concorde. This 50-m height was once the world’s tallest triumphal arch. Napoleon I commissioned the arc to honor the soldiers who battled in the Napoleonic and the French Revolution wars. However, contrary to popular belief, the monument is not a resting place for war heroes. A tomb of an unknown soldier is beneath the arc, but besides that, there have been no burials. Visitors can admire the Arc de Triomphe from a distance or buy tickets to access its rooftop. The views from the top will be worth the investment.

Visit Grand Palais And Petit Palais

• Grand Palais Address: 75008 Paris, France; Google Map
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
• Petit Palais Address: Av. Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris, France; Google Map
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

The Champs-Élysées avenue has many gigantic historical buildings, including the Grand Palais and Petit Palais. These palaces are adjacent, making it convenient to visit both consecutively. Architect Charles Girault designed both palaces for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. The Grand Palais is known for its beautiful steel, stone, and glass exterior. It regularly hosts events every other month. On the other hand, the Petit Palais is a Fine Arts Museum showcasing eclectic fine arts from the Renaissance to the 20th century. It also has a significant collection of decorative murals and sculptures.

Day 5: Versailles Day Trip

• Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Since we are nearing the end of our 7-day itinerary in Paris, let’s explore beyond the city. Hence, Day 5 is about going on a day trip to Versailles. This includes visiting the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the Trianon estate, and the surrounding gardens. You will visit the Hall of Mirrors, King and Queen’s Grand Apartments, and other rooms inside the palace. You will also check out its perfectly manicured gardens and beautiful fountains. Travel tip: Choose the skip-the-line tours to enjoy priority access to the palace and save time.

Visit Giverny And Monet’s Gardens

• Duration: 4.5-5.5 hours (half-day trip), 9-10 hours (full-day trip)
• Price: $67 onwards

Versailles Day Trip is already an excellent choice; nonetheless, we would like to suggest some alternatives in this 7-day itinerary in Paris. How about a day tour to Giverny? The Village of Painters was the home of the Master of Impressionism, Claude Monet. His residence will be the first destination in this expedition. You will explore Monet’s reading room, first studio, private apartments, the kitchen, and the dining room. The trip will also explore the Fondation Claude Monet, including the Clos Normand and the Japanese-inspired water lily garden. The Giverny day tour usually includes a trip to the Palace of Versailles.

Plan A Normandy D-Day Beaches Tour

• Duration: Can last up to 14 hours
• Price: $178.52 onwards

Our third alternative is the Normandy D-Day Beaches Tour. This full-day trip will focus on World War II history and includes visiting sites associated with the Normandy Invasion. You will visit Omaha Beach, one of the five landing sectors of the mission. The US forces landed in this area to face the German troops on June 6, 1944. Likewise, you will visit the Caen Memorial (commemorating World War I and the Battle of Caen) and the American Cemetery (honoring the American troops who died in WWII). The guided day trip can last up to 14 hours and usually includes lunch.

Day 6: Museums And Shopping

Paris has been an artists’ hub for centuries. Renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Edvard Munch, and Salvador Dali moved to the French capital and honed their skills. They also significantly contributed to the French art community. Today, Paris also has the nickname the City of Art. Hence, Day 6 is dedicated to visiting its must-see art museums.

See Artifacts Of The Orsay Museum

• Address: Esplanade Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, 75007 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Begin your morning at the Musée d’Orsay. The Orsay Museum is known for its impressionist masterpieces and houses one of the gigantic collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artwork. Its significant displays are Claude Monet’s Water Lillies, Vincent Van Gogh’s The Room at Aries, Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s Bal au Moulin de la Galette, and Edouard Manet’s Olympia. The museum also features numerous paintings, decorative arts, sculptures, and furniture. In addition to permanent exhibitions, the Musée d’Orsay hosts temporary exhibitions.

Admire Rodin’s Works At The Rodin Museum

• Address: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Paris received artists from around the globe who came to seek inspiration, learn, and educate themselves. The city’s artists also honed their skills and showcased their talents. One of these French individuals was Auguste Rodin, who later gained popularity as a modern sculpture founder. He worked on many of its masterpieces at an old estate, eventually becoming the Rodin Museum. The museum displays Rodin’s The Kiss, The Gates of Hell, and The Thinker. It also showcases Camille Claudel’s works and other collections.

Shop Till You Drop At The Galeries Lafayette

After visiting some museums, it’s now time to go shopping. Our destination is Le Marais‘ Galeries Lafayette, a century-old department store. Brimming with excellent shopping offers, bring out the shopaholic inside you at this upmarket. It features 3,500+ niche brands, household names, and designer brands in fashion, accessories, beauty, well-being, and home appliances. There is something for everyone here, regardless of age or gender. Furthermore, the Galeries Lafayette offers diverse dining experiences in its restaurants. It also hosts many special events, including a fashion show.

Day 7: Montparnasse Tower, Relaxation, And Departure

• Address: 33 Av. du Maine, 75015 Paris, France; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook

Make your last day in Paris productive by visiting the remaining attractions. In the morning, you will visit the gigantic Montparnasse Tower. Visitors often overlook this 210-meter tower and only climb the Eiffel Tower. However, the views from the Tour Montparnasse even surpass those of the Eiffel Tower. Its 56th floor has an observatory offering stunning scenarios from its floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop terrace serves 360-degree panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower and other notable monuments.

Visit Local Markets For Souvenirs

• Top Parisian Markets: Marche d’Aligre, Marche Bastille, Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Marché Mouffetard, Marche des Enfants Rouges
• Things To Do: Shopping, checking out products, buying souvenirs

There is always a time for last-minute shopping. Hence, why don’t you stop by one of the local markets and buy some souvenirs? The Saint-Ouen Flea Market, aka Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, is ideal for purchasing antique and vintage items. It offers everything from ancient paintings to vintage Channel bags in its 2,500 stores across 15 markets. Likewise, Marché d’Aligre offers the freshest produce, vegetables, cheese, and flowers. Other famous markets include Latin Quarter’s Marché Mouffetard, Bastille‘s Marché Bastille, Ile-de-la-Cite‘s Marché aux Fleurs, and Marche des Enfants Rouges.

Have Your Caffeine Fix At Parisian Cafes

After checking off the remaining attractions, spend your time relaxing. Stop by a local cafe for a quick meal. Paris has many charming coffee houses known for their food, ambiance, and hospitality. You can enjoy a cup of coffee and some food before departure. Here are the top cafes in Paris you might consider visiting:

• Hollybelly: 5 Rue Lucien Sampaix, 75010 Paris, France; 9 AM – 5 PM
• Fringe: 106 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, France; 8:30 AM – 4 PM
• Ten Belles: 17-19 R. Bréguet, 75011 Paris, France; 8:30 AM – 7 PM
• Lomi: 3 ter Rue Marcadet, 75018 Paris, France; 8 AM – 5 PM
• KB CaféShop: 53 Av. Trudaine, 75009 Paris, France; 7:45 AM – 6:30 PM
• Café de Flore: 172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France; 7:30 AM – 2 AM

Sadly, the time for departure has come. After getting your caffeine fix, head to your hotel to pack up your belongings. Then, it’s straight to the airport for a flight back home.

This 7-day itinerary in Paris is ideal for any visitor. However, there is no “one size fits all” regarding traveling. So, you can substitute any of the activities with the one you prefer to do. Instead of the Louvre, you can visit the Picasso Museum, Army Museum, Quai Branly Museum, or Grevin Museum. Likewise, there are many Parisian cabarets to choose from, such as Crazy Horse Paris, Nouvelle Eve, and Au Lapin Agile. All in all, have a wonderful time in the beautiful Paris. Au revoir!