Paris: How to spend a week in Paris

 

Are you trying to organize a trip to Paris but are unsure of where to begin? We've will get you this week-long itinerary that covers all the must-see sights and experiences the City of Light has to offer. It will help you with how to spend a week in Paris.

Paris, the city of love, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. With its rich culture, and history, as well as stunning architecture, planning a trip to this city can be overwhelming. But worry not! We've got you cover with this comprehensive itinerary that will ensure you make the most of your time in Paris.

Our seven-day trip covers all the must-see sights and experiences that the City of Light has to offer. From the iconic Eiffel Tower and charming streets of the Marais district to the world-famous Louvre museum and stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, you'll get to experience the best that Paris has to offer.

So whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Get ready to fall in love with the City of Light and all its charms. Here are the tips on how to spend a week in Paris.

HOW TO SPEND A WEEK IN PARIS

Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing

Day 1 of your week in Paris is all about arrival and sightseeing. After you arrive at the airport or train station, make your way to your accommodation and drop off your bags. If you're feeling up to it, head straight to the iconic Eiffel Tower to kick off your sightseeing adventure. Begin your Paris adventure with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower is the most recognizable landmark in Paris, and it's also a must-visit attraction for any first-time visitor. You can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city, or also take a leisurely boat ride along the Seine River to see the tower from a different perspective.

After you've taken in the sights of the Eiffel Tower, head over to the Marais district to continue your exploration of Paris. This historic neighborhood is well-known for its charming streets, cozy cafes, also for trendy boutiques. Take a stroll through the streets, stopping for a coffee or croissant at one of the many cafes. If you're in the mood for some shopping, head to the Rue des Rosiers, where you'll find a variety of boutiques as well as shops selling everything from vintage clothing to gourmet food.

Evening time in Paris:

As the day winds down, make your way to the Notre Dame Cathedral to take in the stunning Gothic architecture. While the cathedral was tragically damaged in a fire in 2019, it is still worth a visit to appreciate its beauty and historical significance. If you have time, you can also explore the Sainte-Chapelle, a nearby chapel known for its stunning stained glass windows.

In the evening, head back to the Eiffel Tower to see it lit up in all its glory. Enjoy the stunning view of the sunset.  The tower is illuminated every night, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic stroll or a night-time picnic. Don't forget to span lots of pictures of this amazing view.  Seeing the sunset and the glory of the tower at night is the best way to of your first-day adventure on how to spend a week in Paris.

Day 2: Museums and Monuments

Day 2 of your week in Paris is all about museums and monuments. Some of the most famous museums and structures in the world may be found in Paris. Start your day with a visit to the world-famous Louvre museum, home to thousands of works of art from around the world. You can spend hours exploring the museum's vast collection, including the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo. If you're not an art lover, don't worry! The Louvre's stunning architecture and iconic glass pyramid are worth a visit in themselves.

After you've had your fill of art, head over to the Arc de Triomphe, one of the most famous monuments in Paris. This stunning arch was built to commemorate the victories of Napoleon Bonaparte and has since become a symbol of French patriotism. You can also climb to the top of the arch for incredible views of the Champs-Elysees and the surrounding area.

From the Arc de Triomphe, make your way to the Champs-Elysees, one of the most famous boulevards in the world. Here, you'll find a variety of high-end shops, cafes, and theaters. Take a stroll down the avenue and soak in the atmosphere, or stop for a coffee or glass of wine at one of the many cafes.

End your day in Paris:

In the afternoon, head to the Musée d'Orsay, a museum housed in a stunning former train station. Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artwork, including pieces by Monet, Renoir, as well as Van Gogh, can be found in the museum. The building itself is also worth a visit, with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and views of the Seine River.

As the day comes to a close, head to the Montparnasse Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city. The tower is one of the tallest buildings in Paris, and its observation deck offers incredible views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the surrounding area.

Day 3: Day Trip to Versailles

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to the Palace of Versailles. Start your day early to make the most of your time in Versailles. Marvel at the opulent decorations and gardens, and learn about the history of the French monarchy.

The Palace of Versailles was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 until the French Revolution, and it's a must-visit attraction for any first-time visitor to Paris. The palace is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture, and its interiors are just as impressive. The Hall of Mirrors, the King's Grand Apartment, and the Queen's Chamber are just a few of the must-see rooms in the palace.

After exploring the palace, take a stroll through the vast gardens of Versailles. The gardens cover over 800 hectares and are home to a variety of fountains, sculptures, also ornamental lakes. You can also rent a bike or take a stroll to explore the gardens at your own pace.

If you're feeling hungry, head to the town of Versailles for a bite to eat. The town is known for its traditional French cuisine, and you'll find plenty of restaurants serving up classic dishes like escargot and coq au vin.

Evening Time:

In the afternoon, head back to Paris and explore the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre. This charming neighborhood is known for its winding streets, cozy cafes, and stunning views of the city. Take a stroll through the streets, stopping to admire the artwork of the local artists who set up shop in the area.

In the evening, head to the Moulin Rouge, one of the most famous cabarets in the world. The Moulin Rouge has been entertaining audiences since 1889, and its iconic windmill is a symbol of Parisian nightlife. Enjoy a show featuring stunning dancers, acrobats, and musicians with your favorite drink.

Day 4: Shopping and Art

Spend a week in Paris, but not do shopping, it's not fair. Spend the morning exploring the trendy boutiques and shops of the Le Marais district. Start your day by heading to the Marais, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Paris. The Marais is known for its narrow streets, quirky boutiques, and vintage shops. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and stop by some of the unique shops and galleries that line the streets.

Next, head to the Centre Pompidou, a modern art museum located in the heart of Paris. The museum is also known for its iconic architecture, with its colorful pipes and exposed ductwork visible from the outside. The museum's collection includes works by modern masters like Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, so be sure to check what's on during your visit.

After exploring the museum, head to the nearby Le Marais district for a bite to eat. The area is known for its cafes and restaurants, serving up everything from traditional French cuisine to international dishes.

Evening Time:

In the afternoon, head to the Saint-Ouen Flea Market, one of the largest antique markets in the world. The market covers over seven hectares and is home to over 2,500 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture. Spend some time browsing the stalls and haggling with the vendors for unique finds.

In the evening, head to Opera Garnier, one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris. The opera house was built in the 19th century and is also known for its stunning architecture and opulent interiors. Catch a show at the opera house, or simply admire the building from the outside.

Day 5: Historic Districts and Churches

On day 5 in Paris, Start your day by heading to the Latin Quarter, one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Paris. The Latin Quarter is also known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.

Take a stroll through the neighborhood and stop by some of the iconic sights, including Sorbonne University and the Pantheon. The Pantheon is a stunning neoclassical building that houses the remains of some of France's most celebrated figures, including Voltaire, Victor Hugo, as well as Marie Curie.

Next, head to Notre Dame Cathedral, one of the most iconic churches in the world. Take a walk along the Seine River to get a better view of the cathedral's famous gargoyles.

End of the day:

In the afternoon, head to the Sainte-Chapelle, a stunning 13th-century church known for its stunning stained-glass windows. The church was built to house religious relics, and its interiors are nothing short of breathtaking. Spend some time admiring the intricate details of the stained-glass windows, which tell the story of the Bible.

In the evening, head to the Montparnasse Tower for stunning views of the city. The tower is the tallest building in Paris and also offers 360-degree views of the city. Take a lift to the top of the tower and enjoy a glass of champagne while admiring the city's twinkling lights.

Day 6: Food and Drinks

No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in the city's famous cuisine. Spend the day exploring the bustling food markets and sampling French delicacies like cheese, bread, and drinks. In the morning head toward a local boulangerie for a classic French breakfast of croissants and coffee. The French take their baked goods seriously, so be sure to savor every bite.

After that, head to the Marché d'Aligre, a bustling market in the 12th arrondissement. The market is filled with fresh produce, as well as artisanal cheese, and other culinary delights. Spend some time browsing the stalls and picking out ingredients for a picnic later in the day.

In the afternoon, head to the Montmartre neighborhood, also known for its picturesque streets and artistic heritage. Take a walking tour of the area and stop by some of the local wine bars. Paris is known for its wine bars, where you can sample a variety of French wines by the glass. Try some of the local specialties, such as a crisp Sancerre or a rich Bordeaux.

Dinner in Paris:

For dinner, head to one of Paris's many Michelin-starred restaurants. Moreover, Paris is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and a meal at one of these establishments is an experience in itself. Indulge in classic French dishes like foie gras, escargots, and coq au vin, and pair your meal with a bottle of French wine.

In the evening, head to the Seine River for a sunset picnic. Spread out a blanket and enjoy the views of the city while sipping drinks and snacking on fresh bread and cheese from the market.

Day 7: Final Day in Paris

Spend your final day in Paris visiting any sights you may have missed, or simply relaxing in one of the city's many parks and gardens. If you have any remaining time on your last day in Paris, there are plenty of sights and experiences to explore. Moreover, you could visit the Catacombs of Paris, an underground network of tunnels filled with the bones of millions of Parisians. This eerie and fascinating attraction provides a unique insight into the city's history.

If you're looking for a more relaxing way to spend your last day, head to one of Paris' many beautiful parks and gardens. The Jardin des Tuileries and Luxembourg Gardens are both popular options, with beautiful landscapes and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

In the evening, make your way to the iconic Moulin Rouge for a night of cabaret and entertainment. This legendary venue has been entertaining audiences for over a century, with its famous can-can dancers as well as live music. Enjoy a glass of your favorite drink as you take in the unforgettable show.

As you bid farewell to Paris, take some time to reflect on the memories you've made during your week in this incredible city. Whether you've explored its famous landmarks, indulged in its delicious cuisine, or simply soaked up its romantic atmosphere, Paris is sure to hold a special place in your heart for years to come.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Paris is a city of love and light. Every single visitor who has visited Paris eventually falls in love with the city's beauty. Whether you have 3 days or a week to spend in Paris, you can make lots of unforgettable memory. There you have it, a complete itinerary of how to spend a week in Paris. With so much to see and do, you'll be sure to fall in love with the City of Light.

GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR TRIP!