The sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower at night, a Seine River cruise, the story of Notre Dame<\/strong>\u2026 Let\u2019s not forget the tree-lined boulevards, the popular \u201cboulangeries\u201d and pavement caf\u00e9s, and the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. Plus, a visit to the famous Galeries Lafayette department store to treat yourself to a wellness treatment<\/strong><\/a> or lunch in one of the up-market restaurants<\/strong><\/a> – where do you start on a 5-day<\/strong> visit<\/strong> to Paris?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Welcome to the perfect Paris itinerary in 5-days<\/strong>, showing you how to maximize every precious moment on a tour<\/strong> of the City of Love. Whether this is your first visit or you\u2019re returning to Paris, this guide will ensure you experience the very best the city has to offer. Follow it exactly or adapt it to suit your preferences and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Paris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the first of your 5 days<\/strong> in Paris take a tour of the iconic monuments and learn about the rich history of the capital of France. <\/p>\n\n\n\n First, discover the Louvre<\/strong>, the most famous art museum<\/strong> in Paris spanning centuries. Home to the mysterious Mona Lisa and the majestic Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Louvre takes you on a journey through time, from ancient civilizations to the Renaissance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also known as the Centre National d\u2019Art et de Culture Georges-Pompidou, this piece of avant-garde architecture is dedicated to contemporary and modern art. The exterior features exposed pipes and a vibrant color palette, in stark contrast to the traditional Parisian architecture of the nearby Louvre Museum. Inside, the museum hosts an eclectic array of exhibits, spanning visual arts, design, and cinema.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Skip the line and save time and money<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Purchase tickets<\/strong> in advance online for the major Paris attractions and you won\u00b4t have to wait in long lines. Perfect if you want to make the most of your time in Paris, you have children or you just don\u00b4t like waiting in a ticket<\/strong> queue. <\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Stroll along the River Seine to Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its intricate fa\u00e7ade, adorned with gargoyles and sculptures, tells stories of religious devotion and medieval craftsmanship. For an alternative view of this amazing monument and a panoramic vista of the city head for the Galeries Lafayette roof terrace<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The fire of 2019 means that visitors are currently unable to visit the inside of Notre Dame until the restoration is complete, which is expected sometime in 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pause for a couple of hours\u2019<\/strong> leisurely lunch in the Latin Quarter<\/strong>, known for its bohemian atmosphere and student population. You can explore the Sorbonne University and wander through the narrow, winding streets that have hosted intellectuals like Hemingway and Sartre. Discover bookstores, market stalls, and hidden squares to sit and people-watch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This enchanting formal park displays exquisite statues and fountains, alongside tree-lined paths. Le Jardin Luxembourg connects the Latin Quarter and the charming St-Germain-<\/strong>des-Pr\u00e9s neighborhood. Every season offers a different ambiance. Hues of red and orange denote the arrival of fall and crisp frosts coat the grass in winter. Colorful flowers bloom in spring while expanses of lawns provide an ideal setting for leisurely summer picnics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This historic arrondissement exudes an air of sophistication that has captivated artists, intellectuals, and visitors for centuries. Stroll along the cobbled streets lined with charming cafes, boutiques, and centuries-old architecture that tell stories of the city’s evolution. The iconic \u00c9glise de Saint-Germain-des-Pr\u00e9s, the oldest church in Paris, gives the neighborhood its name and is a fine example of Romanesque style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Complete your first day with some \u2018me time\u2019<\/strong> in Galeries Lafayette <\/em>Paris Haussmann, close to St-Germain des Pr\u00e9s. Not just a mall, a visit to Galeries Lafayette is an indulgent Parisian shopping experience<\/strong><\/a>. From admiring the view from the <\/strong>roof terrace<\/strong><\/a> to a pampering session at the Wellness Galerie<\/strong><\/a>,<\/strong> you can even learn how to cook like a French pastry chef<\/strong><\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Galeries Lafayette is also the place to find the <\/strong>perfect stylish outfit for a night out in Paris.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The second day of your 5 days in Paris<\/strong> itinerary <\/strong>takes you on a tour<\/strong> of the cultural sights, with the chance to relax and see the city from the Seine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Begin at the Mus\u00e9e d’Orsay<\/strong>, an amazing architectural sight, housed within a former railway station. Renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, this museum showcases the evolution of art from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Van Gogh’s “Starry Night Over the Rh\u00f4ne” and Monet’s “Water Lilies” are among the famous works that grace its galleries, providing an immersive experience into the history of French<\/strong> art<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Paris Museum Pass<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Buy the Paris Museum Pass for a one-off price and get free entry to over 50 Paris museums and avoid queuing for tickets<\/strong>. If you don\u00b4t like crowds the pass is ideal to use at the smaller museums such as Mus\u00e9e National Rodin and the Petit Palais. As the day unfolds, make your way to the Palais Royal, a regal palace surrounded by unique architecture and gardens. The black-and-white striped columns in the courtyard, known as the Colonnes de Buren, create a striking visual contrast to the original palace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Palais Royal gardens are the ideal place to relax and contemplate your time in Paris. Neatly aligned trees and fountains provide a serene escape and a wonderful location for some of your best <\/strong>photographs of Paris. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The symbol of Paris. Completed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, the Eiffel Tower<\/strong> is an example of symbolic architecture and the Belle \u00c9poque era. Take the elevator or walk the steps to its summit for panoramic views of the city<\/strong> – a breathtaking introduction to the beauty of Paris. To see the Eiffel Tower from a unique perspective visit the terrace at Galeries Lafayette<\/strong><\/a>, where you\u2019ll also get one of the best<\/strong> views of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After a delicious French lunch to revive you, a visit to the Trocadero unveils endless views of the Eiffel Tower<\/strong> from the ground. The Trocadero Gardens, with their perfectly manicured lawns and fountains, provide a picturesque setting for an hour\u2019s<\/strong> relaxation and appreciation of Paris’s architectural brilliance. The Palais de Chaillot, a neoclassical masterpiece, adds a touch of historic grandeur to the stunning landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you\u2019re in this district a visit to Galeries Lafayette in Beaugrenelle<\/strong> is a chance to look for souvenirs of your Paris visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Take a tour<\/strong> of this eerie place, <\/strong>in the 14th<\/sup> arrondissement of Paris, into a world of mystery. This labyrinth of almost 2 km of tunnels stores the bones and skulls of over 6 million Parisians. Created in the 18th<\/sup> century to rehome the remains of the overflowing cemeteries, the ossuary helped prevent the spread of disease. The bones line the walls and empty eye sockets stare at you while you can only imagine the fate of these people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After a quick shopping trip to Galeries Lafayette Beaugrenelle<\/a>, an evening Seine River<\/strong> cruise is the perfect end to your second day in Paris. <\/strong>You can book dinner on board and see the City of Light from the water. This makes the perfect romantic evening or celebration of a special occasion. As the boat slowly meanders along the River Seine you\u2019ll pass all the main sights lit up at night \u2013 a truly special experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paris is not a large city, and the beauty of this is you can leave your hotel<\/strong> in the morning, catch the train, and be on the outskirts in just over an hour. Tour<\/strong> either Versailles or Giverny – both deserve a full day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the best<\/strong> attractions to visit on the outskirts of Paris is Versailles<\/strong>. The Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been home to several French monarchs, in particular Louis XIV. As you explore the grand Hall of Mirrors, the ornate State Apartments, and the pristine gardens, each step gives you an insight into how the monarchy lived and the opulence they enjoyed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A tour<\/strong> of the expansive gardens of Versailles invites you to explore. Designed by Andr\u00e9 Le N\u00f4tre, these landscapes showcase a harmonious blend of symmetry and natural beauty. The Grand Canal, groves, and fountains create a picturesque setting that\u2019s perfect for a relaxing walk, offering tranquillity amidst the regal surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Giverny is home to the famous gardens painted by Impressionist Claude Monet. The journey from Versailles to Giverny takes around 1 \u00bd hours by train. If you want to save time it\u2019s a good idea to travel by cab, which takes about 40 minutes, and return to Paris on the train. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Arriving at Giverny, the vibrant colors and beauty of Monet’s garden come to life. The Water Lily Pond, Japanese Bridge, and Flower Garden allow visitors to step into the scenes that inspired some of Monet’s best<\/strong> works. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Amidst these settings is the charming pink house that once belonged to Monet. The interior, adorned with Japanese prints and a vibrant color palette, provides insight into Monet’s creative mind. If you have an artistic side or just want to see where Monet spent much of his time, Giverny is a haven for creative inspiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As the train pulls into Paris, memories of your day trip<\/strong> will linger, while you consider which French restaurant to eat at this evening. May we suggest a Galeries Lafayette restaurant<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>with a choice of French, Asian or Mediterranean cuisine to end the day?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Start the morning in Montmartre, a bohemian hilltop neighborhood that has long been a magnet for artists and creatives. The winding cobblestone streets and charming squares evoke the romance of Paris’s artistic past. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Climb the 300 steps to the Basilique du Sacr\u00e9-Coeur<\/strong>, a white-domed basilica that offers panoramic views of the city and can also be seen from the <\/strong>Galeries Lafayette roof terrace<\/strong><\/a>. The Sacr\u00e9-Coeur is not only a religious monument but a symbol of artistic inspiration. The interior is adorned with the largest mosaic decoration in France, and you can also ascend the dome and visit the crypt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Descend from Montmartre and head for Place de la Concorde. The ideal way to get a real feel for Paris is to walk, which will take you about half an hour<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Flanked by ornate lampposts and punctuated by the towering Egyptian obelisk, this expansive square represents Paris’s evolution through the ages. As a site for executions during the French Revolution, this landmark holds a somber reminder of France\u2019s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After your visit to Place de la Concorde, Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussman makes the perfect stop for lunch. Whether you\u2019re in the mood for Asian, French, or Mediterranean cuisine, the Galeries Lafayette restaurants<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>offer a section of gourmet cuisine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While you\u2019re at Galeries Lafayette this is an excellent opportunity to take a guided tour<\/strong> of this splendid Haussmann-style building. Learn more about the imposing steel and glass dome<\/strong><\/a> and the <\/strong>story of the most famous shopping mall in Paris.<\/strong><\/a> An essential part of your visit is to climb the Stairway to Heavens<\/a> from the ground to the 5th<\/sup> floor. This stunning piece of artwork was inspired by the famous Led Zeppelin rock song. The climb takes you on a journey from a subterranean world to the pastel colors of a bright sky. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Another unmissable experience is the Glasswalk<\/a>. This amazing structure allows you to view Galeries Lafayette from all angles. With the magnificent dome above you and the stores beneath your feet you\u2019ll feeling like you\u2019re floating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Time your visit well and you could see a real <\/strong>Paris fashion show<\/strong><\/a>, held every Friday at 3.00 p.m. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Continuing your journey, make your way along the prestigious Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es<\/strong>, heading towards the iconic Arc de Triomphe<\/strong>. This triumphal arch, commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz, is a symbol of French national pride. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A quick stop at Le Food Court at the Champs Elys\u00e9es Galeries Lafayette<\/strong><\/a> is the perfect excuse for a healthy juice or mid-afternoon glass of wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can climb to the terrace on top of the arch for more breathtaking views of the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A walk through the exquisite Tuileries Garden, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde offers a serene retreat amidst the urban expanse. As you wander through the avenues lined with chestnut trees, you’ll discover a sense of peace that contrasts with the vibrant energy of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Mus\u00e9e de l\u2019Orangerie is located in the Tuileries Garden. Here you can view some of Impressionist painter Monet\u2019s Water Lilies artwork, which is ideal if you don\u00b4t have a chance to visit Giverny. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have time you could fit in a quick visit to Sainte-Chapelle<\/strong> on the \u00cele de la Cit\u00e9, a tiny, inhabited island set in the River Seine. This chapel was commissioned by King Louis IX in the 13th century to house precious Christian relics. Renowned for its stained-glass windows, Sainte-Chapelle presents a range of vibrant colors that depict biblical scenes. The Upper Chapel, with its soaring columns and intricate rose windows, exudes an ethereal beauty that will enthrall you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As evening approaches, your day culminates at the Opera Garnier, a neoclassical masterpiece that stands as a symbol of elegance and cultural significance against the Paris skyline. The opulence of the interior will fascinate you with its chandeliers, gilded moldings, and grand staircase. You\u2019ll find Opera Garnier near Galeries Lafayette \u2013 perhaps you\u2019ll find time for a little more designer shopping<\/strong><\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The finale is to attend a performance at the Opera Garner. Whether you choose to see a ballet, opera, or concert \u2013 this will be an evening to remember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Advance booking<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Book tickets for performances at Opera Garnier well in advance as they tend to sell out fast. You can either reserve your place directly with Opera Garnier or through a ticket agency. Check the calendar on the website to see all the upcoming productions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Your 5 days in Paris <\/strong>are coming to an end and now\u2019s the time to visit anywhere left on your bucket list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This historic district effortlessly combines medieval architecture with a vibrant contemporary scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Weaving through the charming streets of Le Marais you\u2019ll see quaint caf\u00e9s to sample a pain au chocolat and caf\u00e9 au lait, art galleries, and chic boutiques. This is the place to pick up souvenirs from your trip to Paris<\/strong>. Explore artisan shops offering everything from handmade jewelry to stylish fashion, allowing you to take a piece of Parisian flair back home. <\/p>\n\n\n\nDay 1 \u2013 Immerse yourself in the history of Paris<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Louvre Museum<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Paysage](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Louvre_mika-baumeister-unsplash-.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Centre Pompidou<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Good to know \ud83d\udcdd<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Notre Dame<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Notre](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Notre-Dame_marcel-strauss-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Latin Quarter <\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Luxembourg Gardens<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Jardins](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-JardinsLuxembourg_delaney-van-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSt-Germain-des Pr\u00e9s<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann <\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Galeries](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Coupole_MyrMuratet.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDay 2 \u2013 See the city\u2019s cultural treasures and relax<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Mus\u00e9e](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Musee-DOrsay_diane-picchiottino-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGood to know \ud83d\udcdd<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The pass also gives access to many of the Paris monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Centre Pompidou, and the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Orsay.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nPalais Royal<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Eiffel Tower <\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Tour](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Tour-Eiffel-jad-limcaco-unsplash.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Trocadero<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Catacombs<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cruise the River Seine<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"La](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-La-Seine_alice-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDay 3 \u2013 escape the city for a day<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Versailles<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Versailles\"](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Versailles_hugo-herrera-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGiverny<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Giverny\"](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Giverny-baptiste-riffard-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDay 4 \u2013 history, art, and theatre<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The fourth day of your Paris itinerary<\/strong> promises a blend of artistic talent, historical magnificence. In addition to exploring the culture and history of the best<\/strong> districts to visit in Paris you can take a <\/strong>guided Heritage Tour of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussman<\/strong><\/a> and finish the day with the enchantment of a theatrical performance at the iconic Opera Garnier.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMontmartre<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Montmartre\"](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Montmartre-henrique-ferreira-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPlace de la Concorde<\/em> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann <\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Galeries](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-GL-elena-jiang-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nArc de Triomphe<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Tuileries Garden<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Jardin](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Jardin-des-Tuileries-kris-atomic-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSainte-Chapelle<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Opera Garnier<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Op\u00e9ra](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Opera-nathan-staz-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGood to know \ud83d\udcdd<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Day 5 \u2013 the finale<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Le Marais<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Cimeti\u00e8re](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paysage-Pere-Lachaise-wojciech-rzepka-unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/haussmann.galerieslafayette.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/paysage-Crossing.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n