Paris is not just a city; it's an experience waiting to unfold over seven days, packed with world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. With a well-planned itinerary, you can maximize your time and see the best of what the City of Lights has to offer.
To kick off your trip, fly into Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), approximately 25 kilometers northeast of downtown. A taxi will cost around €55-€70 (about $60-$75) to the city center, or you can take the RER B train to Gare du Nord for €10.30 ($11), which takes about 30 minutes.
Once in Paris, navigating the city is efficient with the Métro system, featuring 16 lines and over 300 stations. A single ticket costs €1.90 ($2.05), while a carnet (a book of ten tickets) is €14.90 ($16). Consider purchasing a Navigo Easy card for unlimited travel in zones 1-5 for €22.80 ($25) per week. For a quicker option, use the Vélib’ bike-sharing system, with rentals available from €1.70 ($1.85) for a day pass.
Finding the right accommodation in Paris can enhance your trip significantly. The Marais district is a great choice, known for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to attractions. Stay at Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais, where rooms average around €120-€150 ($130-$160) per night. Alternatively, The Montmartre district offers a bohemian vibe; Hôtel des Arts typically charges around €100-€130 ($110-$140) per night.
For a luxurious experience, consider Le Meurice on Rue de Rivoli, where rooms start at €550 ($600) per night. Regardless of your choice, ensure you book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best rates.
**Day 1:** Arrive and explore the Marais. Visit Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, and dine at Les Philosophes for authentic French cuisine. Budget around €20-€30 ($22-$33) for a meal. **Day 2:** Take a morning stroll along the Seine to Notre-Dame Cathedral (currently under restoration) and explore Île de la Cité. Then, head to the Latin Quarter for lunch at Le Procope, one of the oldest restaurants in Paris. Expect to spend around €30-€40 ($33-$44). **Day 3:** Dedicate this day to the Louvre Museum. Pre-book your tickets online for €17 ($18.50) to skip the lines. Allocate at least three hours here before heading to Tuileries Garden for a picnic. For dinner, try Café Marly overlooking the museum, where meals average €30-€50 ($33-$55). **Day 4:** Visit the Eiffel Tower early (reserve tickets online for €26 ($28)). Enjoy the view from the top, then stroll through Champ de Mars and Montparnasse for lunch at La Coupole, costing around €40-€50 ($44-$55). **Day 5:** Spend the day at Montmartre. Start with Sacré-Cœur Basilica (free entry), followed by lunch at Le Consulat (€20-€30, or $22-$33). Explore local art and visit the Moulin Rouge for a photo op. **Day 6:** Day trip to the Palace of Versailles (RER C train costs about €7.10, or $7.70). Explore the gardens and the Hall of Mirrors. For lunch, grab a bite at La Petite Venise (€15-€25, or $16-$27). Return to Paris for dinner at Le Train Bleu, where meals average €50-€80 ($55-$88). **Day 7:** For your final day, unwind at the Musée d'Orsay (€16, or $17.50) and then stroll through Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Eat at Café de Flore, where budget around €30-€50 ($33-$55) for a meal before heading home.
Paris can be overwhelming, but a few tips can help you navigate smoothly. First, bring comfortable walking shoes, as many streets are cobblestoned and best explored on foot. Second, download the Citymapper app for the best routes and real-time public transport information. Lastly, learn a few basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort, which can enhance your experience.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RER B train from CDG | €10.30 ($11) | Direct to Gare du Nord, about 30 minutes. |
| Single Métro ticket | €1.90 ($2.05) | Valid for one journey across the network. |
| Carnet of Métro tickets | €14.90 ($16) | Book of 10 tickets, great for frequent travel. |
| Eiffel Tower ticket (summit access) | €26 ($28) | Book in advance to skip the lines. |
| Louvre Museum ticket | €17 ($18.50) | Online booking recommended for quick entry. |
| Paris Museum Pass | €54 ($58) | Access to over 50 museums and monuments. |
| Lunch at Café de Flore | €30-€50 ($33-$55) | Historic café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. |
Use this rough planner to sanity-check the total trip cost before you lock flights, hotels or activities.
The best time to visit Paris is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are thinner. Make sure to check local events or festivals during your visit for a more immersive experience.
Tipping in Paris is not mandatory, as service charges are included in your bill. However, it's customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants and cafés for excellent service. In bars, it’s common to leave small change for drinks.
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