We have planned numerous trips to Paris, France over the past 3 decades. It’s one of our favorite places to visit and our stays have varied from quick layovers to a month.
When my nephew made plans for a one-week trip, we helped create a 7-Day Paris Itinerary that covered the top attractions and a few secret gems, too.
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We were reminded just how difficult it can be to plan itineraries for Paris – especially for first-time visitors. It may be the City of Light and Love, but it’s also an enormous and formidable metropolis.
Relying on our firsthand experiences and personal knowledge, we planned a succinct and robust One Week in Paris Itinerary.
To help fellow travelers (yes, you!), we are sharing the outlined trip plan. Our 7 Days in Paris Itinerary features the absolute best things to do in an easy-to-follow format.
Itinerary for One Week in Paris, France
Although 1 week in Paris may seem like a long vacation, there is so much to see and do! Our 7 Day Itinerary for Paris is organized by neighborhood and formatted as a day-by-day sightseeing plan.
We feel it’s perfect for determined sightseers who are intent on soaking up as much of Paris as possible. Those interested in a less intense agenda will likely want to eliminate some stops.
We believe the ideal way to get acquainted with Paris is on foot. Therefore, our itinerary includes quite a bit of walking.
Alternatively, travelers can use Uber, sightseeing buses or public transit to get around. We share more advice in the Travel Tips section below.
Helpful Paris Planning Resources
Your style of travel, budget, season of visit and expectations will dictate how you create your absolute best Paris itinerary.
While this post showcases a general outline of what to do in Paris in 7 days, we have additional articles containing even more detailed information.
We also recommend using our Travel Planning Printables, to keep your vacation to Paris organized!
Paris 7-Day Itinerary
In our Paris, France Itinerary, we share 7 full days of sightseeing and exploring. Additionally, we offer helpful tips for planning a Paris vacation – like where to stay and museum pass advice – at the end of the article.
DAY 1: Top Paris Attractions
MAP. Kick off your trip to Paris with some essential sights. Get your bearings and experience the vibrant atmosphere along the River Seine and stroll the renowned Champs Elysees.
Top Tip: Use our Iconic Paris Walking Tour for more detailed info about these spots.
Morning: Eiffel Tower and River Seine
Start off at the iconic Eiffel Tower. It’s a must-see sight for your Paris 7 Day Trip and the Trocadero offers an excellent first impression.
Savor the sublime Eiffel Tower views from afar, then walk down to, around and past it to the grassy Champs de Mars. Personally, we believe the view of the tower surpasses the view from the tower.
However, if soaring to the top is on your bucket list, we suggest buying Advance Reserve Tickets in order to make the best use of your time.
After taking in the view from different vantage points, set off on a walk along the riverside. As the waterway curves to the east, pause to admire the elegant Pont Alexandre III Bridge.
A bit further along, stop at the waterfront Food Breizh for savory Galettes and sweet crepes – a classic first meal in Paris. Then, continue walking along the river to the famous Musée d’Orsay.
Afternoon: Orsay Museum and Epic Walk
Housed in a former train station and featuring Impressionist artwork, the Orsay is a highlight of many Paris itineraries.
The museum hosts masterpiece works by world renowned painters, including Van Gogh, Cezanne and Renoir.
Plan to spend about 2 hours here, although art aficionados will likely want to stay longer. Either way, use the Skip the Line Tickets or the Paris Museum Pass.
By mid-afternoon cross over Pont des Arts bridge to the Louvre. We don’t recommend going inside now (that’s on day 5), but the glass pyramid in the Cour Napoléon Courtyard is the starting point of a classic Parisian walk.
After snapping photos, begin your stroll west through the pretty Tuileries Garden to Place de la Concorde. Once the site of executions, the square is centered on an Egyptian obelisk and is ringed with statues.
Walk west and continue along Paris’ most famous street, Champs-Elysees. The wide thoroughfare is lined with luxury retailers, lush gardens and palatial estates. Pop into Laduree to sample macarons, a favorite French confection.
Evening: Arc de Triomphe
By early evening, arrive at the striking Arc de Triomphe, which marks the west end of Champs-Elysees. The structure stands atop the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the center of a 12-street roundabout.
Use the underground tunnel to access the arch. Examine the exterior, see the tomb and then head up to the top for sensational views. Pre-book your ticket or use the Museum Pass.
Consider ending your evening with a meal nearby. Although some spots are known to be tourist traps, Restaurant LE Drugstore and Le Café de Paris are both decent options for French Onion Soup and other Parisian favorites.
DAY 2: Best of Paris Sightseeing
MAP. Next up on your 7 Day Paris Vacation Itinerary, embark on a sightseeing adventure to three of the city’s best districts.
Pro Tip: Use our Ile de Cite Walk and our Le Marais Walk for detailed info and maps.
Morning: Sights on Ile de Cite
This island has marked the center of the city for centuries and hosts several must-visit attractions for your 7 Day Trip to Paris Itinerary. It’s best accessed via the 400-year-old Pont Neuf at the western tip.
Top things to do on Ile de Cite are visiting Notre Dame Cathedral and Towers, seeing the stained-glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle and touring the Conciergerie prison where Marie Antoinette was held prior to being executed.
Note that it is free to enter the cathedral, but the towers, Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie all require a ticket.
We also recommend walking all the way around Notre Dame, as the architecture is quite spectacular from every angle!
Now cross over to a second island, Ile Saint-Louis. Here, indulge in an ice cream from Berthillon Glacier. This wouldn’t be the Best 7-Day Paris Itinerary if we didn’t let you know about this place!
Afternoon: Best of Le Marais
In the afternoon, continue your exploration at the exquisite Hotel de Ville (the Paris City Hall). Then ease into the Le Marais District – one of our favorite places in Paris to see.
The historic area is marked by grandiose architecture, a notable Jewish community and a youthful vibe. Wandering the lanes and stepping into hidden courtyards is a great way to explore – however, there are a few spots to seek out.
The Maison de Victor Hugo and Musee Carnavalet are both free and excellent museums. Other sights that should not be missed are Place des Vosges, the Church of Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis and Rue des Rosiers.
Le Marais is also home to some of the best street food in Paris – and where we suggest eating lunch.
Join the queue at L’as du Fallafel for a falafel wrap. It’s one of the tastiest we’ve eaten anywhere in the world! We prefer to get it to-go and eat at the hidden Rosiers-Joseph-Migneret Garden.
Late Afternoon: Sacre Coeur and Montmartre
Now make your way via Metro to the exciting Montmartre neighborhood. The highlight of the district is the awe-inspiring Sacre-Coeur Basilica.
The white stone church sits atop the highest point in Paris – and views from the steps stretch across the city.
Next, saunter along the streets that lead away from Sacre-Coeur. Stop by Place du Tertre, where artists draw tourists’ portraits.
Now pass by the pretty pink La Maison Rose on Rue de l’Abreuvoir and visit the Montmartre Cemetery, Musee de Montmarte and the Wall of Love.
Evening: Moulin Rouge
End your day in the Pigalle District. Known for its bright lights, sex shops and adult nightclubs, it’s an interesting place to visit.
The highlight, however, is Moulin Rouge and its famous red windmill. The striking sight sits among the many cabarets along Boulevard de Clichy.
For a unique and memorable dining option, book tickets for dinner, champagne and a Moulin Rouge show!
Alternatively, delve into the local side of Montmartre and dine at Les Darons Wine Bar (the octopus and steak are amazing) or Le Coin des Amis (order the escargot). Both spots offer sensational French cuisine at affordable prices.
DAY 3: Day Trip from Paris to Versailles
MAP. Versailles is extraordinary – and it’s a quick train ride from the Paris city center. While inundated with fellow tourist, it is exquisite both inside and out.
If you’d prefer to dash the crowds, consider our DIY day trip to Château de Fontainebleau or one of the many guided tours.
Morning: Versailles Gardens
Versailles is just 12 miles from Paris on the RER C train. Depending on your departure point, it can take up to 1.5 hours to get there.
Make sure to buy your timed palace entry ticket in advance online. For your full day visit, the all-access ‘Passport’ is the best option.
Paris Museum Pass holders should reserve a timeslot online and purchase a separate garden ticket during Musical Show days.
Once you arrive, go straight to the gardens. Stroll through the meticulously planned space complete with dancing fountains. Then set off to see the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet.
For a fabulous lunch, dine in the gardens at La Flottille, which overlooks the Versailles Grand Canal. Alternatively, enjoy a savory crepe from one of the vendors or bring your own items and have a picnic at the designated areas!
Afternoon: Palace of Versailles
Steeped in history, the former royal residence exudes opulence. That said, you will only need a couple of hours to see the exquisite interior.
Wander through the elegant Hall of Mirrors, see the sumptuous King’s and Queen’s Apartments and look up at the vaulted ceiling of the Grand Chapel.
To make the most of your visit, pick up an audio guide at the entrance or down the mobile app before you arrive.
Evening: Versailles Town and Dinner
The Town of Versailles is often overlooked – and it’s a shame, because it’s quite charming! With a handful of museums, quaint bookshops and unique architecture, take time to waltz along the cobblestone lanes.
Then, before heading back to Paris on the train, dine al fresco at Café Marion. The menu is full of French specialties, like Entrecote or Tartare de Boeuf.
DAY 4: Paris Left Bank Sights
MAP. Today you will explore the Latin Quarter and go underground to the catacombs. Then see sculptures at the Rodin Museum, visit Napoleon’s Tomb and enjoy an epic evening view!
Top Tip: Use our Left Bank Walking Tour to help get you on your way.
Morning: Latin Quarter
Home to the historic Sorbonne University, ornate churches, spacious parks, classic cafes and chic nightclubs, the Latin Quarter is a fun district to explore.
Begin with coffee at Café de Flore, a famous haunt of literary fans. Next, visit Saint Germain-des-Pres and Saint-Sulpice churches.
Then take in more sights, such as Sorbonne University, Shakespeare and Company Bookshop and the Pantheon (ticket required, included with Paris Museum Pass).
Finally, saunter through the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg to the Fountain des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde on the southern end of the green space.
For lunch, dine at one of the nearby international restaurants (Georgian, Chinese and Mediterranean eateries are all close).
If you want to splash out, eat a luxurious oyster lunch at the legendary La Closerie des Lilas (which was frequented by Ernest Hemmingway).
Afternoon: More Prime Paris Attractions
Now head into the Paris Catacombs, where the bones of more than 6 million people are stacked in a maze of tunnels. The eerie site ranks as one of the top things to see in Paris, so purchase tickets in advance.
If going to see subterranean skeletons isn’t your style, soar to the top of the Montparnasse Tower (ticket required). The observation deck on the 56th floor features unsurpassed views!
Next, ride the Metro west toward Hotel des Invalides, where you can see Napoleon’s Tomb (ticket required, free with Museum Pass).
Finish your sightseeing at the Rodin Museum (ticket required, free entry with Paris Pass) that hosts an exceptional collection, including The Thinker, The Gates of Hell and The Kiss.
Evening: Rue Cler and Sparkling Eiffel Tower
The pedestrian shopping street Rue Cler is known for its gastronomic delights and culinary specialties.
Visit the butcher, the cheesemonger and the wine shop for the ultimate Parisian shopping experience. Gather items to prepare your own dinner or dine at one of the area eateries.
Le Roussillon is an excellent choice for a selection of amuse bouche to share. Alternatively, if you need a break from French fare, check out L’Artisan du Burger.
Champs de Mars is just steps away from Rue Cler and provides a sensational viewpoint at night. Be sure to stay until the top of the hour for the dazzling light show!
DAY 5: Heart of Paris
MAP. Today discover opulent architecture, more must-see museums and a prime shopping venue. You’ll also uncover a few Paris Hidden Gems!
Pro Tip: Use our Self-Guided Walk of Paris City Center for complete details.
Morning: Paris Shopping and Sightseeing
Begin in one of Paris’ premier department stores: Galeries Lafayette. Shop for the latest trends or simply admire the Art Nouveau building. Just don’t miss the free rooftop, where views stretch over the city.
With your feet back on the ground, swing by the Palais Garnier Opera House. A ticket is required to see the glamorous interior – but at least get a good look at the glittering building from the southside plaza.
Next, visit the UNESCO World Heritage La Madeleine. Boasting a distinctive Neo-Classical design, the columned church is more akin to a temple. Inside is a trove of artwork – and it’s free to enter!
On your way to lunch, pass through Place Vendome, a prestigious and striking square marked with a 145-foot-tall column celebrating Napoleon.
Finally, join the queue at Angelina Rivoli Tea Room, a Paris institution for more than 120 years. Order the Eggs Benedict, but be sure to save room for their decadent pastries and famed hot chocolate!
Afternoon: Additional Museums
Spend the rest of the day visiting Paris’ Renowned Museums. First, go to Musee de L’Orangerie to see Claude Monet’s well-known Water Lilies murals. Stay longer if you want to get a glimpse of more masterpiece paintings.
Afterwards, go to the Louvre. Of course, you will need to get an up-close view of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, but there are many more works to see!
Don’t miss Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Coronation of Napoleon and The Wedding at Cana (opposite Mona Lisa). It’s best to pick up a map at the entrance to plan your route through the massive venue.
Evening: City Walk and Dinner on Rue Montorgueil
Leave the Louvre to the north and pop into the Palais Royal gardens and courtyard. Marked with black-and-white striped columns, it’s a fun place for photo ops!
Walk north along the tree-lined garden paths to Galerie Vivienne – one of Paris’ best hidden gems. The elegant 19th century covered passageway will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
End the day on Rue Montorgueil, perhaps our favorite Paris street. The lively lane boasts boutique shops and specialty food stores. Relax a bit before dinner by enjoying a beverage and people watching people.
The dining options here seem endless. For the best buttered snails, eat at L’Escargot, but for a range of affordable French cuisine try Au Rocher de Cancale. Regardless, be sure to snag a Baba au Rhum from Stohrer before it closes!
DAY 6: Paris Parks and Leisurely Walks
MAP. It’s time for a bit of relaxation and a full dose of nature. Enjoy an easy day at the city’s best outdoor green spaces and points of interests in the 19th and 20th Arrondissements.
Morning: Pere Lachaise Cemetery
Start day 6 of your Paris 1-Week Itinerary with a walk through an extraordinary graveyard, Pere Lachaise Cemetery.
More like an open-air museum than a burial ground, Pere Lachaise features mature greenery, curving paths and incredible sculptures.
While we encourage rambling aimlessly, most visitors like to seek out specific gravesites, like Oscar Wilde, Gertrude Stein, Frederic Chopin and Jim Morrison.
Afternoon: Parc des Buttes Chaumont
Take the Metro (or make the long walk) to Parc des Buttes Chaumont – one of the very best Parisian parks.
Before entering pick up some French cheese and fresh-baked bread – and maybe even a bottle of wine – for a pleasant picnic lunch. Fromagerie Secretan and Les Halles Secretan are nearby.
Afterwards, navigate the paths to the waterfall, cross the suspension bridge and climb up to Temple de la Sibylle, where there are views of Sacre Coeur.
Evening: Canal Saint-Martin and Dinner
Next, angle toward Canal Saint-Martin. The district is one of the fascinating corners of Paris. Walk alongside the flowing canal, watch boats glide through locks and ponder the colorful street art murals.
Then, meander into the neighborhood to find boutique shops, second-hand stores and cool culture centers.
Shake things up for dinner with international fare and innovative beer at Paname Brewing Company. It’s one of our favorite Paris Craft Beer Bars.
Really delve into the vibe of this enclave and toast after-dinner drinks at either Le Comptoir Général or Le Cinquante.
DAY 7: Off the Beaten Path Paris
MAP. A fabulous thing about planning a week in Paris Itinerary is discovering some gems. Wrap up your trip exploring the east side of the city, beginning in Vincennes.
Next, walk along the Coulee Vert Rene-Dumont – an old railroad-turned-park. Then end your Perfect Paris Itinerary on the Seine.
Morning: Chateau de Vincennes
Hop on a Metro to visit Chateau de Vincennes. Dating to 1150, the structure was originally built as a hunting lodge, but was later renovated into a fortress.
Spend an hour or so touring the former regal residence – including the Royal Chapel and Tower Keep. A ticket is required, but entry is included with the Museum Pass.
Before lunch, wander through the Town of Vincennes, which exudes a small-town ambiance that feels a world away from bustling Paris.
Then, find a place to dine or pick up to-go sandwiches to eat in the park. Panozzi and Fred are two great spots!
Allow ample time for exploring the biggest park in Paris, Bois de Vincennes. The must-see attraction is the colorful Parc Floral de Paris, which boasts summertime blooms and roaming peacocks!
Afternoon: Coulee Verte Rene Dumont
Now start making your way back to the city center via the Coulee Verte Rene-Dumont path. Similar to the New York City High Line, the Promenade Plantee is an old railway that has been repurposed.
As the path reaches central Paris, make a quick detour to see Rue Cremieux – a quiet lane of pastel-painted houses that is incredibly picturesque!
Evening: Paris Bridges and Seine Boat Tour
If you still have some pep in your step, set off on a stroll along the Seine, crossing over bridges and taking in the beauty of the city.
At dusk, embark on a Seine River Cruise – it’s the perfect way to wrap up Paris in 7 days! Most boats have open-air decks, where passengers have unobstructed views of the best Paris highlights.
Some Paris boat tours include beverages and/or meals, while others allow you to bring your own. Many travelers tout the Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Champagne and live music to be a memorable Paris experience!
Map of What To See in Paris in One Week
Our Map of Paris Attractions is color-coded by day. Day 1 = RED; 2 = ORANGE; 3 = YELLOW; 4 = GREEN; 5 = BLUE; 6 = PURPLE; 7 = PINK. 
Tips to Plan a 7 Days in Paris Itinerary
Our agenda for visiting Paris, France in a week lays out what to see and do, but you also need to consider the logistics of your trip.
Paris Museums and Landmarks
Our Paris in a Week Itinerary includes several places that require an entrance fee. Top sights will likely have long lines for entry and security, which needs to be taken into account.
Additionally, some venues are closed on certain days (often Mondays and Tuesdays). Make sure to check opening times and plan your Paris travel itinerary accordingly.
Note that if your vacation includes multiple ticketed attractions, we recommend buying a Paris Museum Pass. In addition to the savings, the pass often includes Skip-The-Line access.
How To Get to Paris
There are two major airports in Paris: Charles de Gaulle (GDG) and Orly (ORY). Budget airlines Ryanair and Wizz Air fly to Beauvais-Tille Airport (BVA). We recommend searching on SkyScanner – but read our Tips for Cheap Airfare!
Gare du Nord is the busiest train station in Europe – and where many travelers to Paris will arrive to or depart from. It has Metro line connections as well as a direct train to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
That said, there are several train stations in the city, and which one you use might depend on your origin/destination.
Getting Around Paris
The sights in our Paris One Week Itinerary are scattered throughout the sprawling city. You can get around by walking, taking a bus, hopping on the Metro or getting an Uber.
We prefer to walk. Part of the charm of Paris is found on the streets that are lined with incredible architecture and boutiques. Of course, navigating the entire city on foot is unrealistic.
The Paris Metro is relatively inexpensive, however paper tickets are no longer issued. Buy a Navigo Easy Card or a Paris Visite Pass if you’re riding often.
Where To Stay in Paris
Finding the best place to stay for 7 days in Paris can feel like a monumental task. Choices range from luxury hotels with an Eiffel Tower view to hostel dorms stacked with bunk beds.
We have booked a variety of accommodations and even stayed for free in a Paris apartment when petsitting. Find out more about International Housesitting.
Our best tip for Paris accommodation is to find a place that is close to a Metro stop for easy access to the rest of the city.
Visitors splashing out on a luxury trip to Paris should check availability at the Four Seasons George V. Those looking for a more affordable option should read our advice on Finding Top Hotels at the Best Prices.
What To Pack for a Paris Itinerary
Before you go to Paris for 7 Days, you’ll need to figure out what to pack! So grab our FREE Checklist and let’s get you to France!
Durable Walking Shoes
Our Paris 7 Days Itinerary covers a lot of ground, so you will need a pair of comfortable travel shoes. I like these lightweight trainers by New Balance and Kris prefers trail shoes by Merrell.
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos – Paris is incredibly photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera for top quality photos. We use a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens.
Versatile Day Bag
Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want a stylish day bag. Not only to organize all of your everyday essential items – including a guidebook – but to protect against pesky pickpockets!
Paris Trip Insurance
This may be useful if you encounter travel delays or lost luggage, and can come in handy for illness or injury abroad. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your Trip to Europe, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to France! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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- 10 Days in Scotland
- 1-Week Tuscany Itinerary
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