Paris itinerary 5 days: How to spend 5 days in Paris perfectly?

Refer to the 5-day 4-night Paris travel itinerary (Paris itinerary 5 days) to explore beautiful places and interesting activities in the beautiful city of Paris.

Paris, the capital of France, also known as the “City of Light”, is always a dream destination for tourists from all over the world. This place attracts tourists by its romantic, ancient beauty mixed with modernity. Besides, this city is also filled with a unique artistic atmosphere and iconic architectural works.

This self-guided itinerary not only helps you explore famous landmarks but also brings you closer to the cultural life, customs and people of Paris. In addition, the travel tips suggested by Klook will make your trip more memorable!

Learn About Paris’s Means of Transportation

Like other metropolitan cities, Paris has a complex subway system. The Paris Metro is the one you’ll use the most as it’s the fastest way to get around, with 16 lines spanning the city.

You can catch the metro as early as 6am and as late as 12:45am from Sunday to Thursday, and 1:45am on Friday and Saturday. If you’re visiting the suburbs of Paris, you can use the Réseau Express Régional (RER), which connects the centre of Paris with the suburbs.

Other ways to get around Paris include the tram and bus. There’s even a night bus called The Noctilien that transports nightlife and partygoers around Paris from 12:30am to 5:30am.

Day 1: Pantheon, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre (#Paris itinerary 5 days)

Pantheon

The Pantheon Paris, located in the vibrant Latin Quarter, is one of the most prominent and historically significant structures in Paris. Originally built as a church to honor Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, the Pantheon later became the resting place of many great figures in French history.

The Pantheon’s architecture is a perfect combination of Gothic and neoclassical styles, with soaring domes and elaborate sculptures. Step inside and you will admire the giant murals depicting the life of Saint Genevieve, along with works of art honoring French heroes.

The Pantheon is not only a historical monument but also a symbol of French national pride. A visit to the Pantheon will give you a deeper insight into the history, culture and people who have contributed to making Paris – the city of light and knowledge.

• Address: Pl. du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
• Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM (Daily)

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

After admiring the beauty and history of the Panthéon, head to the Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, also known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris. This is one of the most prominent and iconic architectural works of the French capital and has stood strong for over 100 years.

One of the experiences not to be missed when visiting Sacré-Cœur is climbing to the top of the church tower. From here, you will admire the panoramic view of Paris stretching out before your eyes, from the bustling streets to the historic architectural works. The sunset from the top of Montmartre hill is considered one of the best moments to see Paris sparkling under the lights.

In addition, the area around Sacré-Cœur is also worth exploring. Montmartre, famous for its narrow alleys, art cafes, and squares where street artists create works, offers an artistic and romantic space that is typical of Paris.

• Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
• Opening hours: 6:30AM – 10:30PM (Daily)

Montmartre

Then, head to Montmartre, the charming village that is home to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Stroll through the winding streets of Montmartre, where you will find countless cafes, restaurants, and art shops. One of the most famous stops is the Place de la Tertre, where street artists display and paint on the spot, creating a lively art space.

Coming to Montmartre to feel the artistic, historical and romantic atmosphere of Paris. This is especially the place where many famous artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Modigliani lived and worked.

Montmartre also has cobbled alleys, long staircases, and charming old houses. A walk along Rue Lepic or Rue des Abbesses will take you into the enchanting Paris, with fragrant pastry shops, colorful flower shops, and unique graffiti art walls.

Day 2: Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Latin Quarter

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most prominent symbols of Paris, located in the center of Charles de Gaulle Square, where 12 major avenues intersect. A national symbol, a tribute to those who died fighting for France, the Arc de Triomphe is a must-see for history buffs and those who love stories about the past.

It was first built in 1806 to mark the victory of Napoleon I in battle and continued to be built for another 30 years before it was completed. On the surface of the Arc de Triomphe, you can see elaborate sculptures depicting important battles and great names of the French army.

Climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe to enjoy panoramic views of the city, where you can see the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Climb to the top and you will also find a museum and a gift shop to buy souvenirs.

• Opening hours: 10AM – 10:15PM (Daily)

Champs-Élysées Avenue

Dubbed “The Most Beautiful Street in the World,” Champs-Élysées is the shopping, entertainment, and cultural center of Paris. On this avenue, you will find luxury shops, romantic cafes, and classy restaurants. This is also where important French events are held.

Strolling on Champs-Élysées, you will feel the vitality and quintessence of modern Paris. Especially when coming here, you must visit Galeries Lafayette – the most luxurious shopping center in Paris.

Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest districts in Paris. The Latin Quarter is also famous for its winding streets, quaint cafes, bookstores and bookshops. Not far away, don’t forget to stop by the Luxembourg Gardens, also known as Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most beautiful and famous gardens in Paris.

This large garden is a favorite destination for both locals and international visitors, providing a cool, peaceful green space in the heart of the bustling city.

Right in the Latin Quarter, you will find the most famous bookstore in Paris: Shakespeare and Company. Shakespeare and Company stands out with its cozy space, decorated with thousands of books from floor to ceiling. You will see many tourists lining up to buy the shop’s famous tote bag. Don’t forget to buy a book here to have it stamped with the bookstore’s logo, as a souvenir when visiting Paris.

Day 3: Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen (MAP), Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (MAP)

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, commonly known as the “Saint-Ouen Flea Market”, is one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world, located in the north of Paris. With more than 2,500 stalls spread over 7 hectares, this market is an ideal destination for those who love antiques, art and vintage fashion.

In addition, you can visit Marché Dauphine, a newly established market but still offers visitors a diverse and rich shopping experience. The market has hundreds of stalls selling products from antiques, art, furniture to rare books, jewelry and vintage fashion.

Another major antique market in Paris that you should also visit is Paul Bert Serpette, the largest and oldest flea market in Paris. Paul Bert Serpette is a combination of two smaller markets: Marché Paul Bert and Marché Serpette, both of which have a long history and play an important role in the Saint-Ouen flea market community. Marché Paul Bert is known for its classic and elegant style, while Marché Serpette stands out for its variety and richness of art and antiques.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes so you can enjoy exploring Paris’ famous markets and shop to your heart’s content!

• Address: 124 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, France
• Hours: 10 AM–6 PM/Tuesday, Wednesday: Closed

Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is one of the most important and famous art museums in Paris. This museum houses a rich and diverse collection of art from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries. It houses paintings by famous artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Gustave Caillebotte, as well as sculptures by Auguste Rodin, Camille Claudel, and Edgar Degas.

You will be surrounded by impressionist and post-impressionist art as soon as you step inside. When visiting the Musée d’Orsay, visitors will not only admire world-class works of art but also have the opportunity to explore a historic building with unique architecture. Spend at least a few hours in this museum, because there is a lot to see and learn!

• Address: Esplanade Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, 75007 Paris, France
• Opening hours: 9:30AM – 6PM (Tuesday to Wednesday & Friday to Sunday), 9:30AM – 9:45PM (Friday), Closed on Mondays

Eiffel Tower

The symbol of France that everyone must check-in at least once is the Eiffel Tower. Built in the late 19th century, the Eiffel Tower is not only an artistic wonder but also a cultural and historical symbol of Paris.

The Eiffel Tower has three main floors that visitors can visit, each floor offers different experiences and views:

• Level 1: This floor is located at an altitude of about 57 meters, with a glass floor that allows visitors to look down below. On this floor, there are exhibition areas, restaurants and cafes.
• Level 2: Located at an altitude of 115 meters, this floor offers a beautiful panoramic view of Paris. This is also where the famous restaurant Le Jules Verne is located.
• Level 3: The highest observation deck, at an altitude of 276 meters, offers a beautiful and comprehensive view of the city of Paris. Visitors can reach this floor by elevator.

Tips: See the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night! The light show runs from 8pm to 1am, for the first 5 minutes of every hour. ​ Thousands of twinkling lights create a mesmerizing and sparkling display. In the summer, the light show lasts until 2am. Head to Champ de Mars – the public park in front of the Eiffel Tower to enjoy the show in full.

• Opening Hours: 9:30AM – 10:45PM (Daily)

Day 4: Catacombs of Paris, Louvre Museum, Seine River

Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs of Paris, also known as the Catacombes de Paris, are one of the city’s most unique and mysterious attractions. They contain the remains of over six million people and are located underground in a long and complex network of tunnels.

The reason there are over 6 million human remains in this underground tunnel is because cemeteries in the 18th century were overflowing with bodies. Removing the remains solved two of the city’s biggest problems at once: the spread of disease and the collapse of underground tunnels and passages.

Tips: There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the catacombs. Firstly, the catacombs are not wheelchair-friendly. Secondly, the temperature inside is always 14°C, so bring a jacket if you visit. Thirdly, visiting the catacombs requires visitors to walk through many stairs and narrow tunnels, so be mentally and physically prepared for this trip.

• Opening Hours: 9:45AM – 8:30PM (Tuesday to Sunday), Closed on Monday

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre) is one of the world’s largest and most famous art museums, located in the heart of Paris. It houses thousands of works of art from around the world, including many famous masterpieces.

With 400 rooms and over 35,000 works of art on display, the Louvre is the largest museum in the world. The Louvre has an extensive collection of ancient art, including works from Egypt, Greece, Rome and the Near East. The museum also houses many famous paintings from the Renaissance to the 19th century, including masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Eugène Delacroix’s La Liberté guidant le peuple.

The museum is huge and can’t be seen in a few hours, so plan ahead to see the areas you like best!

• Address: 75001 Paris, France
• Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM (Saturday – Thursday), 9AM – 9:45PM (Friday)

The Seine River

The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris, playing an important role in the city’s history and culture. Not only is it an important waterway, it is also a tourist attraction with its scenic views and recreational activities.

One of the best ways to explore Paris is to take a cruise on the Seine. From the boat, visitors can admire many famous Parisian structures such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. The banks of the Seine are also an ideal place for you to stroll, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Paris.

Day 5: Palace of Versailles, Le Marais

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) is one of the most magnificent and famous palaces in the world, located near Paris. Built in the 17th century, the palace was once the residence of French kings and emperors.

The palace is incredibly large, including a park, gardens, an estate, a tennis court, stables, and the palace itself. The rooms are lavishly decorated with gold furniture and chandeliers, as well as fountains scattered throughout the gardens, making this palace a true testament to the beauty that accompanied wealth and power.

The Palace of Versailles is famous for its opulent and magnificent court rooms, where many important historical events such as military parades and royal banquets took place. The palace also houses several valuable art galleries, with paintings, sculptures and jewellery from the French Golden Age.

• Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
• Opening hours: 9am – 5.30pm (Tuesday to Sunday), Closed on Mondays

Le Marais

Le Marais is one of the oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods in Paris, with its diverse architecture and distinctive cultural diversity. Located in the heart of Paris, Le Marais is a popular destination for art, culture, and food lovers.

Le Marais is full of iconic landmarks and historical monuments. Here, you can stroll around the oldest square in the city: Place de Vosges. With its classical architecture and tree-lined streets, this square creates a peaceful and relaxing space in the heart of the city. It is also home to the Hôtel de Ville, the seat of the Paris city council, adding to its importance and prestige in the city’s political history.

You should also stop by the Musée Picasso to discover the creativity and talent of the great Spanish artist. This museum houses an impressive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works, from paintings, sculptures to other works, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of his life and career.

Suggested Hotels When Traveling to Paris for 5 Days and 4 Nights

A great trip is one that refreshes your spirit and relaxes your mind, so having a good night’s sleep to start a new day of exploring Paris is extremely important. Which hotel should you choose when traveling to Paris for 5 days and 4 nights on your own to have a great experience and fit your budget? Let check out some below.

Bel Ami Hotel, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $230/night (Agoda.com or Booking.com).

Hotel Saint Paul Rive Gauche, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $169/night. (Agoda.com or Booking.com).

citizenM Paris Gare de Lyon, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $97/night (Agoda.com or Booking.com).

Mercure Paris Centre Eiffel Tower Hotel, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $255/night (Agoda.com or Booking.com).

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for Paris hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com.

A Few Suggestions for Traveling to Paris 5 Days 4 Nights

Just a quick 35-minute RER A ride from the National Station, Disneyland Paris is a fairytale park for all ages. From iconic attractions to beloved Disney characters, indulge in a day filled with fun and magic with thrilling rides, enchanting parades and delicious dining options.

If you want to venture out of Paris? Consider taking a day trip to Normandy to see the iconic Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a large island temple, famous for its unique architecture and stunning natural scenery. There are a variety of tour options to choose from (guided, unguided or audio-guided), to suit your type of traveler.

Above is a 5-day, 4-night Paris travel guide for independent travelers. We hope that this article will help those who are traveling to France for the first time find useful information and necessary tips so that you can plan the perfect trip for yourself.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Paris you can refer to

• Paris Museum Pass
• Paris Pass with 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Bruges Day Tour from Paris
• Paris Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Paris Open Tour Bus Pass
• Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket
• The Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
• 4G SIM Card (Paris/Airport Pick Up) for Europe from Orange
• Disneyland® Paris Ticket
• Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket
• [Sale] Seine River Sightseeing Cruise in Paris by Bateaux-Mouches
• Mont Saint Michel Full Day Tour from Paris
• Paris: 1-Hour River Seine Cruise
• Paris: Eiffel Tower Direct Access Tour to Summit by Elevator
• Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket
• Paris: 1-Hour Illuminations River Cruise
• Louvre Museum: Tour
• Paris: Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket with Champagne

Are you looking for more top things to do in Paris: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Paris travel blog — The fullest Paris travel guide blog for a great budget trip to Paris for the first-timers. And let’s check it out more here.