A Week In Paris Itinerary: What To See And Do

Are you planning a week in Paris? Great news! That’s just about the right amount of time to spend there – even though you may be wondering “is a week in Paris too long?”

I have spent one week in Paris the first time I visited and I wish I could have stayed longer. I could spend months in Paris without never getting bored. I am sure that in 1 week in Paris, you will fall in love with it (as I did) and resolve to go again.

With a week in Paris you will be able to visit all the top attractions in Paris and even wander around to discover the most charming neighborhoods. 

I know what you’re thinking: a week in Paris is enough time for you to visit more spontaneously. DON’T! Paris is a massive city: commuting from one place to the other takes time, and with the crowds of tourists it gets all the time you are better off scheduling all your visits.

If you don’t like planning, don’t worry. I will be putting together a week in Paris itinerary for you, and guide you through the city’s best sites and sights. The only thing you have to worry about is booking your flights, your hotel (I will give you tips on where to stay) and follow this itinerary.

Continue reading for a great itinerary to see Paris in a week, and get tips on how to move around, how to avoid the crowds and skip the lines, how to save money here and there and how to have a good time. 

A Week In Paris – Itinerary Overview

Are you wondering how to spend a week in Paris, or asking yourself “is a week in Paris too long?” Don’t worry! First of all, one week is not an excessive amount of time to spend in Paris. Secondly, I will show you that it’s very easy to fill up your days in this wonderful city.

My week in Paris itinerary was created on the assumption that you are sleeping 8 nights there, and you have 7 days in Paris. It may also work if you get there very early in the morning on your first day or leave very late in the evening on your last day.

Here is a quick overview of this 7 days in Paris itinerary:

Day One

Start your week in Paris with a bang, with some of the best views in Paris and a walk through its most beautiful parks:

• Eiffel Tower
• Champ de Mars
• Arc de Triomphe
• Champs-Elysées
• Place de la Concorde
• Tuileries Garden

Day Two

Check out the most famous museum in the world, then enjoy a Seine River cruise:

• Palais-Royal
• Louvre
• River Seine Cruise

Day Three

A fantastic introduction to the city, with a great museum and some of the best views of Paris:

• Museé d’Orsay
• Latin Quarter
• Ile de la Cité
• Saint Chapelle
• Notre-Dame

Day Four

A day trip to Versailles

Day Five

Explore Montmartre in depth

Day Six

You have two options for this day:

• Père Lachaise
• Le Marais

or

• a day trip to Disneyland Paris.

Day Seven

Finish your week in Paris with the Paris Catacombs and Montparnasse Tower for one final chance to take in all the views.

This itinerary was designed in a way that allows you to visit attractions that are close to each other on the same day, so that you don’t have to spend much time commuting and can enjoy each attraction longer. On most days, you can follow it in reverse. Check the closing time of the attractions to decide which your starting point should be!

Visiting Paris Soon?

Whether you have been planning for months or have decided on a last-minute trip, there are some attractions and tours you need to book ASAP. My favorite tour provider is GetYourGuide. It has a variety of activities, flexible booking, and 24/7 support!

Now, let’s finally get into the details of this itinerary.

How To Spend A Week In Paris

Day 1

I recommend starting your week in Paris with a bang. Go to the Eiffel Tower for fabulous views of the city; then admire the tower in all its glory from a selection of nearby viewpoints.

Walk to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysées and continue to Place de la Concorde and finish off at the lovely Tuileries Garden.

Map of day one Paris itinerary 

Here is a link to the Google Maps itinerary you have to follow on your first day. It is fairly easy to follow.

You will start at the Eiffel Tower – to get there from your accommodation, simply write the name of your hotel as the starting point and hit search. You will have the option of walking or using public transport. If you click on the train icon, that will give you all the transportation options.

From the Eiffel Tower, you will make your way to the Louvre (which, however, you won’t visit on this day).

To get sunset or evening views of the Eiffel Tower and from the Eiffel Tower, follow this itinerary in reverse. If you decide to do that, use the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, near the Louvre, as your starting point.

Eiffel Tower

Think of Paris, and the first thing that will come to mind will likely be the Eiffel Tower. I still remember the first time I visited Paris. I got on the RER train from the airport, and the view suddenly opened up and I got my first glimps of the Tour Eiffel (that’s how it’s called in French) and literally got goosebumps!

The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 for the World Expo. With its 324 meters (1,063 feet), back then it was the tallest building in France. It has now lost its primacy, however it remains the highest man-made observation deck in Europe: 276 meters (905.5 feet).

Once you get to the second floor and the summit, the views of the city are absolutely breathtaking. You will be able to see all the way to the Sacre Coeur and Montmartre, so bring a camera for photos.

Some people will tell you that the views are better from the second floor. Frankly, once you have made the effort to get all the way to Paris and the Eiffel Tower, you should visit all levels! It’s not like you are able to climb the Eiffel Tower whenever you want, right? The good thing is that summit tickets will also allow you to access the second floor.

The Eiffel Tower is open every day. Make sure to check the official site for the opening hours, as they can vary depending on the day and month and they differ for the elevator and the stairs.

You will need to book a time slot and get tickets in advance to visit the Eiffel Tower. This way, you will be able to skip the line at the ticket counter – but you will have to go through security checks and get in line for the elevator.

For this attraction, I recommend opting for the earliest access and factoring around 2 hours for your visit, from the moment you arrive to the time you leave the premises – unless you are planning on following today’s itinerary in reverse and having dinner there.

Tickets are available on the official Eiffel Tower site – but these are not refundable. Another option is to get tickets via a third-party booking site – in this case, if you cancel within 24 hours of your visit you can get a 50% refund.

For a more in depth experience, you could consider this highly rated Eiffel Tower summit guided visit – it’s definitely more expensive, but you will have a guide with you and a more flexible cancellation policy (you can get a refund as long as you cancel 72 hours before you visit).

You could also consider the Paris Museum Pass – once you get that, you will have to visit the Eiffel Tower official website to book a time slot for your visit.

Finally, you could opt for the Paris City Card (it’s not the same as the Paris Pass), which allows you to pick a time slot directly on the site where you purchase it, without having to visit the official site.

Indeed, you could decide to leave the Eiffel Tower as the last attraction of the day and go there for sunset and dinner. There are a couple of excellent restaurants on the Eiffel Tower, but they must be booked in advance. Here are your options:

JULES VERNE – This Michelin-starred restaurant is the best option for a truly unique experience, but be prepared to splurge. It’s located on the second floor.

MADAME BRASSERIE – This nice brasserie on the first floor is a more easy-going option, and cheaper too. But don’t expect a bargain!

You can also book Madame Brasserie on GetYourGuide. The price is actually very convenient, and includes a 3-course meal and access to the first floor by elevator.

My post How To Visit The Eiffel Tower provides more information on how to plan your visit and make the most of it.

Champ de Mars

First opened in 1780, Champ de Mars park is located next to the École Militaire. It’s a favorite spot for tourists who love hanging out there at weekends or on special occasions, to have a picnic or to just spend time with the family. But locals enjoy it too.

The views of the Eiffel Tower from this nice park are incredible, and it’s completely free to visit. For a relaxing experience, consider bringing a picnic with you!

Trocadero

After going up the Eiffel Tower for the best views of Paris, then seeing the Eiffel Tower from Champ de Mars, head to Trocadéro for one of the most iconic photo spots in the Ville Lumière.

Located on the other side of the Seine River from the Tower, the Trocadero is easily added to this one week in Paris itinerary anyway, as you will pass it on your way to the Arc de Triomphe. This is a very popular spot, so don’t expect to have it all to yourself.

If you are an early bird, go to the Trocadero for sunrise. You will have the place to yourself for stunning photos. And if you are having dinner at the Eiffel Tower, stop by afterwards: by the time it gets dark, there will be way fewer people.

Arc de Triomphe

Located in Place de l’Etoile, at the western end of the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe is at the very center of one of the busiest roundabouts in Paris. To get to the main gate, use the underpass.

This impressive arch measures 50 meters (164 feet). It was built to celebrate war victories and to commemorate those who died during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars.

If you wish to go in, you can opt to take the elevator or climb the steps. The views are actually very different from those you get from the Eiffel Tower: you can see La Défense – Paris business district; and of course you will have one more chance to see the Eiffel Tower.

The stairs on the way out offer yet more photo opportunities.

The Arc de Triomphe is open every day, but opening times vary depending on the season so visit the official Arc de Triomphe website for more accurate information. It is closed on 1 January, 1 May, 8 May (morning), 14 July (morning), 11 November (morning) and 25 December.

Visiting the Arc de Triomphe is not free: you can get tickets on the official website, or use the ticket included in the Paris Museum Pass. Tickets are also available on GetYourGuide for the official rate.

Champs-Elysées

Located in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, the Champs-Elysées is probably the most famous street in the city. Measuring 1.9 kilometer (1.2 miles) in length and 70 meters (230 feet) in width, they are a nice place to go for a walk.

This famous Parisian street, whose full name is Avenue des Champs-Élysée, runs all the way from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde.

Taking their name from the Elysian Fields, which in Greek mythology is a place for dead heroes, this beautiful boulevard is home to luxury boutiques, cafés and restaurants, and to the Lido, one of the most famous cabaret shows in Paris together with the Moulin Rouge.

It’s also where the final bits of the Tour de France take place – so if you follow biking races it will be even more interesting to see. Finally, this is where the annual parade on Bastille Day (14 July) takes place.

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is Paris’ largest square. Located between the Champs-Elysées and the Tuileries Garden, the square was built in 1772. At that time it was named Place Louis XV.

It was later renamed Place de la Révolution. It’s here that King Louis XVI and his wife Queen Marie Antoinette where executed during the French Revolution – along with other prominent political figures of the time such as Maximilien de Robespierre.

Take care to notice the fountain that dates from the reign of Louis-Philippe and the obelisk – it’s actually been taken from the entrance of Luxor Temple in Egypt.

Tuileries Garden

The beautiful Tuileries Garden are located at the end of the Champs-Elysées and right after Place de la Concorde. This a gorgeous park, and one of the most popular in Paris.

The gardens are named after the tile factories scattered around this part of Paris before it was turned into a park. Did you know that they were the private garden of the 1564 Palais de Tuileries where Queen Catherine de Medici lived?

In 1664 by André Le Nôtre, gardener of King Louis XIV, worked on the first redesign of the park. Later on, Vaux-le-Vicomte – the same person who designed the gardens of Versailles – worked on the park. It is a beautiful park to relax for an hour or so, and there are a few things to see too.

For example, you could check out the statues of Maillol, Rodin, and Giacometti. And if you have time (and energy) you could head to the south-west part of park to visit the Musée de l’Orangerie, where you will find an exhibit focusing on the works of Monet.

The last admission at the Musée de l’Orangerie is at 5:15 pm so – depending on how the day develops, you may actually be able to visit. To speed up the process in case you want to visit, get your tickets in advance.

If you walk all the way through the Tuileries Gardens, you will get to the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, right outside the Louvre.

The park is open daily from 7:00 or 7:30 am to 7:30, 9:00 or 11:00 pm depending on the time of year.

Day 2

Since you have a week in Paris, you can devote an entire day to the Louvre, the world’s largest museum. However, your starting point will be the Palais-Royal, which opens very early and is a fantastic photo-spot. From the Louvre, you can walk towards the river for your Seine river cruise.

Map of day two Paris itinerary 

You can see the map of your day 2 itinerary here. You will need to make your way to the Eiffel Tower to embark your cruise, unless you opt for an hop-on hop-off one which also stops right by the Louvre.

Palais-Royal

I thought that with a week in Paris, it’d be good if you also got a chance to visit some of the city’s hidden gems. Palais-Royal is so centrally located and so close to the Louvre that it really makes sense to add it to this one week in Paris itinerary!

Since it opens very early, you can have an early start to your day and head there first thing – and you will likely have the place to yourself.

The palace used to be the home of Cardinal Richelieu, who lived there until his death in 1642. It then became property of Philippe II Duke of Orléans, who held the throne as Louis XV became king aged 5 in 1715.

Palais-Royal is now the seat of the Constitutional Council and the Ministry of Culture. The striped columns exhibit makes it a fun place for photos.

Palais-Royal usually opens at 7:00 or 7:30 am and closes late. Visiting is free.

Louvre

There are many museums in Paris, and the Louvre is certainly the most famous one. This is – literally – the biggest art gallery in the world.

The Louvre was actually the Royal Palace of Paris. The last king to reside there was Louis XIII – when Louis XIV rose to power, he moved the entire court to Versailles.

The palace became an art gallery in the 1700s. Since then, it accumulated an impressive collection of art – with sculptures and paintings from artists from around the world. The building itself is immense, and truly a magnificent sight both from the inside and the outside.

Take your time to admire the marble floors, the ceilings and the views.

Inside the museum, you can admire some of the most famous pieces of art history. The Louvre is home to Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa; the Wedding at Cana by Veronese; the Sleeping Hermaphroditus by Bernini; the Venus of Milo; the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and many more pieces of art.

If you have a week in Paris, you can devote the better part of a day to this incredible museum. But there are a few things you need to know before you visit.

First of all, the Louvre works on a time-slot system, which means you need to book a specific time for your visit and get tickets in advance: make sure to book well ahead of your intended day of visit, tickets are often sold out and you may find a long line at the ticket office. Tickets bought online are skip-the-line and allow you to walk in via the fast-track security line.

But how do you get tickets to the Louvre? Here are my recommendations:

First of all, you can use the Louvre official website. If you want a plain ticket this is the most budget-friendly option, though the site is admittedly a bit confusing.

Alternatively, GetYourGuide that sells Louvre tickets. This is a third-party booking site that has the major advantage of allowing you to select a time slot for your visit directly on its site, and tickets cost as much as on the official website. You can also get fast track tickets to the Louvre on Tiqets.

You could also get tickets with the Paris Museum Pass – they are fast-track too. In this case, however, you need to visit the official website of the museum to book a time slot for your visit.

My personal recommendation is to take a guided tour of the Louvre, so that a knowledgeable guide will take you around the museum to see the most important pieces and manage to dodge the crowds. After the tour, you can stay in the museum to continue exploring on your own.

I highly recommend is this masterpieces guided tour of the Louvre – it lasts 3 hours, after which you can continue exploring on your own, and it and has free cancellation.

The Louvre is open every day but Tuesdays, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (it closes at 9:45 pm on Fridays). It is closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. 

Opt to visit the Louvre on Friday, when it is open till late, so you can go in the evening, when it is not nearly as crowded as usual. For that, you may want to consider this Closing Time At The Louvre: The Mona Lisa At Her Most Peaceful tour which starts at 6:45 pm.

I have a detailed post – How To Visit The Louvre – that provides even more detailed information on how to plan your visit.

River Seine Cruise

If it is your first time in Paris, you can’t miss a cruise along the Seine River. This is a way of seeing the city from a unique perspective and under a unique light. Depending on when you are visiting Paris, you may even be able to go on a sunset or dinner cruise, for a romantic experience.

There are many cruises to pick from – some include champagne and others even offer dinner.

Unless you opt for a dinner cruise, the cruise typically lasts one hour and makes stop by the Orsay Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral.

Whichever cruise you pick, read the description and the reviews as some report having terrible wine (served in plastic cups!) or poor overall experiences.

Most cruises depart from the Eiffel Tower, but for the purposes of this itinerary you could consider getting Batobus hop-on hop-off cruise that also departs by the Louvre. The Paris Museum Pass includes tickets for a Seine River cruise.

Make sure to also read my post How To Pick The Best Seine River Cruise In Paris for more options and cruise ideas and for a comparison of all the available cruises, what they offer and their departure point.

Day 3

Day 3 of your week in Paris itinerary will be about art and sights. After visiting the Museé d’Orsay, you will wander around the Latin Quarter and make your way to the Ile de la Cité where you will be able to visit some of the most beautiful churches in Paris.

Map of day three Paris itinerary 

You can download a map of your itinerary here. Use public transportation to get to the Museé d’Orsay then just enjoy walking. 

On Thursdays, I recommend following this itinerary in reverse as the museum closes at 9:45 pm. This will leave you plenty of time to enjoy the other attractions. 

Musee d’Orsay

If you have a week in Paris, you have enough time to visit two museums in depth. Museé d’Orsay is a rather obvious choice other than the Louvre, especially if you love impressionist art.

Its collection – with pieces from 1848 onwards – includes the works of Monet, Manet, Renoir, Van Gogh and many more. The museum regularly houses special exhibits – there was one about Degas when I visited the first time.

Check the website to see if anything is on during the day you intend to visit, and if so factor in some extra time in case there is a special exhibit.

If the art collection is not enough to make you want to visit, you may want to know that the building is stunning too. This once was a train station (Gare D’Orsay, built for the Universal Expo). When you go to the top floor, take time to admire the clock – and check out the views from there!

You can explore the museum on your own, but I recommend renting an audioguide to take you through the most relevant pieces on display. When you ask people at the audio-guide desk how long it will take you to visit the museum, they will be eager to say that a day is not enough!

If you are an art lover, consider taking a guided tour.

Museé d’Orsay is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. On Thursdays it closes at 9:45 pm. It is closed on Mondays.

Contrary to the Louvre, the Orsay Museum does not work on a time slot system. You should however plan to arrive there as soon as it opens and get tickets in advance. It will take you at least two hours to visit the museum – that’s if you only stick to the most important pieces on display.

Tickets to Musée d’Orsay are included in the Paris Museum Pass. Otherwise, you can get tickets on the museum’s official website or on third-party booking sites for the same price.

For a more detailed guide on how to visit the museum and make the most of it, read my post How To Visit Musée D’Orsay.

Luxembourg Gardens

With a week in Paris, you really have to go to Luxembourg Gardens – I know that the Tuileries is the most famous, but this is by far my favorite.

This lovely park was built upon orders of Maria de’ Medici at the beginning of the 17th century. There is a palace, which currently houses the French Senate.

If you go during the summer it is a great place to get some shade as there are many trees. Don’t miss the statues of the 20 French queens and Medici’s fountain.

The Pantheon

Located on Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, the Pantheon of Paris was built between 1758 and 1790. It was originally a church, but at the time of the French Revolution it became a mausoleum.

It is the burial ground of France’s most notable people. Buried there are Rousseau, Voltaire, Marie Curie, Alexandre Dumas, Victor Hugo and Émile Zola.

The Pantheon is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 or 6:30 pm depending on the season.

You can get tickets on the official website – which you must double-check for the opening hours too. Tickets will also allow you to access the nave and crypt of the monument. Tickets are also available on third-party booking sites for the same price.

Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare and Company is one of the most beautiful corners in Paris. This independent bookstore sells books in English and regularly holds events, workshops and seminars.

If you have 1 week in Paris you may actually want to time your visit with a special event. Indeed, if you are traveling solo it’s a good chance to meet other English speaking travelers!

The building where it is located, in the heart of the Latin Quarter, used to be a monastery dating from the 17th century. The shop opened in 1951. Make sure to look for the cat – but only pet if her if she’s ready for it. You know how cats can be sometimes!

Sainte Chapelle

Sainte Chapelle is a 13th century Gothic Church with beautiful painted glass windows that cover it from floor to ceiling. It really is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris, so I thought I’d included in this guide to see Paris in a week.

You will marvel at the church the moment you step inside. Factor in about one hour for your visit.

Sainte Chapelle is open every day except for 1 January, 1 May, and 25 December and like many other attractions in Paris it works on a time-slot system.

Tickets can be bought online on the official website of Saint Chapelle. They are also included in the Paris Museum Pass.

This excellent Skip-the-Line Sainte-Chapelle, Seine Cruise & Medieval Quarter Tour run by Take Walks (one of my favorite tour companies in Europe) takes you to most places mentioned in today’s itinerary. If you wish to join the tour, you’d have to leave the Orsay Museum as your last stop for the day.

Notre-Dame

Notre Dame is the most famous church in Paris, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and one of the most famous churches in the world. Construction of the church started in the 12th century, and the building was completed in 1345: it took around 200 years to complete it!

Notre-Dame de Paris is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, famous for its flying buttresses, intricate stone carvings, and the twin towers that still define the skyline.

After years of restoration works post the 2019 fire, the cathedral has opened to the public again in December 2024. Visiting is free, but visits work on a time-slot basis, and you need to book 3 days in advance if you wish to go in.

Day 4

With a week in Paris, you can’t skip Versailles. If you only go on a day trip from Paris, it should be here. For those of you visiting Paris with children, you will have the chance to go to Disneyland on another day. 

Versailles is really close to Paris – about 16 km (around 10 miles) southwest of the city and it’s easy to get there independently by train.

Versailles was the symbol of all the excesses of the French Monarchy. The castle was actually built around the hunting lodge that was used by King Louis XIII.

This was once a private retreat, but in an attempt to keep the entire aristocracy of Paris under his control, Louis XIV decided to enlarge the lodge and turn it into a palace that would become the royal residence and the seat of the French Government. The Palace of Versailles served these functions from 1682 to 1789.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Versailles does not just comprise the castle – which is why I suggest spending an entire day there. Indeed, you should make it a point to also explore the magnificent gardens with the musical fountains and the Petit Trianon (where Queen Marie Antoinette liked to reside) and Grand Trianon (where Napoleon lived).

Chateau Versailles is open from Tuesday to Sunday (it’s closed on Mondays) from 9:00 am and works on a time slot system and you must get tickets in advance.

You can get tickets on the official website. Alternatively, opt for these Versailles Palace, Gardens and Estate tickets on Tiqets.

The first time I visited Versailles I opted to join a guided tour, at least for part of the day. I recommend you do the same, as the site is actually very big and it can get overwhelming with the crowds.

For example, you could consider this A Day at the Palace: Small Group Paris to Versailles Day Trip with Garden Stroll – contrary to most tours, this one actually starts in Paris and the guide will come with you on the train. You will then start your guided tour and finally enjoy free time.

To get from Paris to Versailles, take the RER C. Buy your return ticket from the train station in Paris to avoid the long lines at Versailles station on the way back.

My post A Complete Guide To Visiting Versailles gives even more guidance and tips to visit Versailles.

Day 5

If you have a week in Paris you can spend an entire day wandering around Montmartre, one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods.

You can visit the Moulin Rouge; the Sacre-Coeur, and then go in search of the hidden corners of Montmartre.

Try not to go to Montmartre at weekends as it is crowded beyond belief. 

Map of day five Paris itinerary 

You can see the map of your day 5 itinerary here. I have included the main highlights of Montmartre but there are plenty more to discover. 

Moulin Rouge

Your first stop for the day will actually be southwest of Montmartre, in the district of Pigalle on Boulevard de Clichy in the 18th arrondissement. Here you will find the famous Moulin Rouge.

You will see the Moulin Rouge as soon as you get out of the metro station – it’s hard to miss the red windmill on the roof, a homage to the windmills that at the time the cabaret was first opened were found in the area.

The theater opened its doors during the Belle Epoque, in 1889. Incidentally, that’s when the Eiffel Tower was also opened in preparation for the Universal Expo. The owners, Charles Zidler and Joseph Oller, also owned the Paris Olympia theater. A fire destroyed the Moulin Rouge 25 years after its first opening, in 1915, but the popular theater was immediately rebuilt.

Some of you may want to see a show at the Moulin Rouge – this famous cabaret is the birthplace of the can-can dance.

If you want to attend a show, you should get tickets for the Moulin Rouge in advance. Some tickets also include a glass of champagne.

Sacré-Coeur

The beautiful Sacré-Coeur Basilica is one of the main landmarks of Montmartre. Located on the top of the Montmartre Hill, construction of this church, which is in Romano-Byzantine style, started in 1875 but only ended in 1914.

However, the church was consecrated after the end of World War I. Take time to visit the church, then climb the dome for incredible views of the city. You can also spend some time sitting on the stairs right outside the church – the views from there are beautiful but this can be a very crowded spot.

For an in-depth visit of the church, consider this guided tour that lasts 1.5 hours.

Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris. Picture low houses, quaint looking cafés and shops and that bohemian look that will make you love it.

The area became popular with artists in the 19th century, when the likes of Monet, Renoir, Modigliani, Picasso, and even Van Gogh decided to live and have their studios here. It still is a major artists hub to this date!

Montmartre is full of history – there are some historical cafés such as Le Consulat, or La Refuge Café. You will also find art galleries and small museums (for example Dalì Museum). One spot you can’t miss is Place du Tertre, where you can find the best street artists in the area: if you want to get a portrait or a caricature, this is the place.

You should also stop by the famous Maison Rose, one of the most photographed spots in Montmartre, and find the statue of Parisian singer (of Italian origins) Dalida. For the romantics, there is the Mur des Je T’Aime – a wall with “I love you” written in many languages.

Montmartre is even home to a tiny vineyard – the Vigne du Clos Montmartre – that is the last working vineyard in the city of Paris.

Montmartre can be easily explored independently. When I visited the first time, I opted to join a guided tour that would introduce me to the area, and then continued on my own for more photo opportunities.

I recommend this budget friendly Montmartre 2-hour walking tour. It’s the tour I took and the guide was excellent, and shared lots of interesting facts and useful information.

Another tour I wholeheartedly recommend is this Exclusive Montmartre Experience with Private Vineyard Tasting, Skip-the-Line Museum Tour, & Sacré-Coeur. This tour is operated by Take Walks, one of my favorite tour providers in Europe, and is very in-depth and also goes to the last remaining vineyard in Paris!

For a more detailed guide of this charming area of Paris, you should read my post The Best Places To Visit In Montmartre.

Day 6

You have two options on this day: you an remain in Paris and visit one of its most beautiful neighborhood, or head out of the city once again to spend a day in Disneyland. The second option is probably more suitable to families with children. 

OPTION 1 Le Marais

If you opt to stay in Paris, you will visit the Père Lachaise cemetery then head to Le Marais to wander around and end your day at Centre Pompidou for street art and local scenes. This is the itinerary you have to follow on Google Maps.

Père Lachaise

The famous Père Lachaise cemetery opened in the early 1800s and is one of the most famous (and visited) cemeteries in the world. Located in Paris’ 20th arrondissement, it’s the burial ground of many famous people such as Edith Piaf or Doors legendary singer Jim Morrison. It0s also where writers Balzac and Oscar Wilde are buried.

The cemetery opens daily from either 8:00 and 8:30 am and closes at 5:30 or 6:00 pm depending on the season. Visiting is free but you may want to join a guided tour to make the most of it. I recommend this Père Lachaise tour which is very thorough and lasts 3 hours.

Le Marais 

This is easily my favorite neighborhood in Paris. It’s where I stay whenever I visit. It’s an area packed with lovely local cafés, bars and brasseries, quaint streets, artists’ ateliers, small independent boutiques and interesting museums.

Museums you can visit in the Marais district include the Museum of French History, the Musée National Picasso-Paris, the Musée Carnavalet, and Victor Hugo House Museum.

Le Marais is just such a pleasant place that you should not skip it, especially if you have a week in Paris.

For a more in-depth experience, I recommend joining this Le Marais District Jewish History Guided Tour. The tour lasts two hours and helps you understand the connection between Paris and the Jewish community of the city.

I have written a detailed post on Unmissable Things To Do In Le Marais, which has lots of tips to help you plan your visit.

Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou is one of the most intriguing buildings in town, and with a week in Paris not only you have time to admire it from the outside and spend time in the quaint (and very local square) right behind it, but you can also visit inside.

The funky looking building in the heart of the Marais District houses the National Museum of Modern Art – Europe’s largest modern art museum. You can admire the work of artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Kandinsky. Make sure to hang around after your visit.

This museum is open until 9:00 pm, so you have plenty of time to make your way there and visit a a leisurely pace. Make sure to go to its balcony for the views.

The Centre Pompidou is currently closed for renovation works.

OPTION 2 Disneyland Paris

If you are traveling with children and have a week in Paris, there is no way you can avoid Disneyland. In fact, many would tell you that it is a great escape even for adults. 

This massive park, divided in two parts – Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park – can’t possibly be seen all in one go. If you are in search of a proper adrenaline kick definitely ride the Rock’n’Roller Coaster Aerosmith – it’s the fastest ride in the park. 

Disneyland is located in Marne-la-Vallée, 30 km (18.6 miles) from downtown Paris. You can get there by RER: you will have to get off at Marne-la-Vallée. From there you just have to follow directions to the park.

Make sure to get Disneyland Paris tickets in advance, as there can be very long lines to get in.

I recommend using GetYourGuide for the tickets – you can use it to get this Disneyland Paris 1 day ticket which includes a day pass to either Disneyland Park or Walt Disney Studios Park, or this Disneyland Paris 1 day flexible ticket, which is an excellent option slightly more expensive but perfect if you need to be flexible.

Day 7

The best way to end your week in Paris is by admiring it from above once again before you leave. That’s why you should climb Montparnasse tower. But that’s not the only thing you’ll see on this day.

Map of day seven Paris itinerary 

Download today’s map here. Today is a fairly easy day for you.

The Catacombs

If you have a week in Paris, you will definitely have time to include the Paris Catacombs in your itinerary. Located where once was a limestone mine, the Catacombs of Paris started being filled with bodies at the end of the 18th century, when local cemeteries were pretty much full.

They are found 20 meters (more than 65 feet) below street level, which means there isn’t much variation in the temperature throughout the year – it’s 14°C (57°F) and quite humid.

It’s interesting actually, because if you are following this itinerary for a week in Paris in December, you will find warmer than outside, but in the summer it will be much colder and you’ll have to bring an extra layer.

Before you visit, remember that you will have to go down 131 steps and then climb up 112 steps. This means that the Catacombs aren’t exactly disabled-friendly.

The site is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:45 am to 8:30 pm (last admission is at 7:30 pm). They are closed on Mondays and on January 1, May 1 and December 25.

Like other attractions in Paris, the Catacombs work on a time slot system You can book tickets on the official website or also book a time-slot on a third-party booking site. It will take you about one hour to visit.

Montparnasse Tower

With one week in Paris, you should not miss on the opportunity to explore the lovely Montparnasse neighborhood and go up Montparnasse Tower for the best views of the Eiffel Tower from above.

Tour Montparnasse (as it is called in French) is probably the ugliest building in Paris – I do believe it sticks out like a sore thumb! But guess what? When you are on it, you don’t actually see it sticking out in your photos!

Built in the early 1970s, Montparnasse Tower is 210 meters (689 feet) tall and the second tallest building in the city. From there, you can get unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower, of the Montparnasse District below, and of La Defense.

If you manage, time your visit to be there for sunset.

Montparnasse Tower observation deck is open every day from 9:30 am. Closing time varies, so check the official website for more details. That’s where you can also get tickets. Admission is included in the Paris Museum Pass, and you can also get tickets on third party booking sites.

Galeries Lafayette

Once you are done exploring the Montparnasse neighborhood, head to the Galeries Lafayette Hausmann. This massive department store was opened in 1912 and is entirely built in Art Nouveau style.

It’s the equivalent of Harrods in London – beloved by locals, but quite expensive to shop at, and a tourist attraction in its own right.

You can go in for a quick look at what’s on sale, and admire the impressive building and even if you do not intend to do any shopping (it’s actually fairly expensive) you may still want to admire the impressive building from the inside and the outside.

Take some time to admire the glass Coupole, a dome that is 43 meters (141 feet) tall and which dominates the Paris skyline along with other buildings mentioned in this post. You can then go to the top level to admire impressive views of Opera Palais Garnier and beyond.

Guided tours are available in English, but only on Sunday morning. They last about 1.5 hours and can be booked directly via the official website. If you are interested in the tour, you could follow today’s itinerary in reverse order.

Practical Tips For Your Week In Paris

Where to stay in Paris

Picking the right place to stay in Paris is crucial. Depending on where you end up staying you will find accessing the attractions more or less easy and this will definitely influence how much you enjoy your week in Paris.

I recommend selecting a central location from where you can minimize the use of public transportation. When I visited Paris for the first time, I stayed in Le Marais. It’s a central and safe area, with a nice local and quaint feel.

Goralska Résidences Hôtel Paris Bastille – This beautiful studio apartment has everything you need for a fantastic stay, including beautiful views of the river. There are 3 apartments of different sizes to pick from, each with its own kitchenette. You can add breakfast to your booking if you wish.

SO/Paris Hotel – Rooms at this Paris hotel are comfortable, large and bright. The hotel has its own restaurant and bar, an indoor swimming pool and even a spa center. You can add breakfast to your booking if you wish. Considering what you get, it’s actually reasonably priced!

Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa – This classic hotel in Place des Vosges (close to Bastille) is so centrally located that it will make exploring Paris a real breeze. Rooms are cozy and comfortable, and there is an on-site restaurant, a spa and a fitness center too.

With a week in Paris, you may feel a bit more relaxed and opt to stay in a different area that is not as central as the rest, but definitely quaint and fun to explore – for example Montmartre. Here are some good hotel options in Montmartre:

Hotel des Arts Montmartre – This hotel has really small but lovely rooms. It’s close to the metro station so it will make exploring the rest of the city quite convenient.

Hôtel Monsieur Aristide – This nice hotel features classic – in fact, a bit retro – rooms in a stunning setting. Rooms are a bit small perhaps, but they are comfortable and there even is a restaurant on site.

Le Relais – This is one of the best places to stay in Montmartre. The hotel offers plush rooms. The good location makes up for the fact that rooms are really small.

Best restaurants in Paris

Generally I recommend having just a quick lunch and sitting down for a full meal for dinner, so that you have more time to explore the many sights in Paris. There are so many nice bakeries in Paris, brasseries and cafés where you can have something easy for lunch.

When it comes to dinner, however, I do have some favorite places to recommend. Here they are:

EPICURE – If you have the budget to splurge, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is definitely a top pick!

CLOVER GRILL – Definitely not a place for vegans! This fabulous restaurant has a strong focus on beef. It’s not cheap, but the wine selection is phenomenal.

A LA BICHE AU BOIS – You don’t have to spend too much at this traditional French restaurant that offers delicious food.

LE COMPTOIR DE CAVES LEGRAND – Located close to Palais Royal, this restaurant offers mouthwatering food perfectly paired with wine (and there’s an extensive wine list). You can sit at the bar or at a table. Just make sure to book in advance as it’s a popular local spot.

LE PETIT RETRO – At this restaurant, you will be able to have traditional French cuisine in a lovely, retro and romantic setting.

LES ENFANTS DU MARCHE – Located inside the Marché des Enfants Rouge, this is a fabulous spot for lunch. The menu changes on a daily basis depending on what’s available at the market.

LES ENFANTS ROUGES – Not far from the Marché des Enfants Rouge, this small restaurant is sophisticated yet easygoing. It’s a fun fusion between the most traditional french dishes and Asian ingredients.

CHEZ JANOU – This is one of the most popular dining spots in the Marais. Plan to wait in line before being seated or book a table in advance. They have a selection of freshly prepared dishes that include the popular streak frites. It’s a very easy going place.

BENOIT PARIS – This classic Parisian bistro first opened in 1912 and since then has offered the best of the best French cuisine.

LE MAZENAY – If you like the idea of a constantly changing menu to reflect what’s seasonal and what’s available at the market, this contemporary cuisine restaurant is the perfect pick for you.

TEKES – Assaf Granit is by far one of my favorite chefs in the world, so of course I have to recommend his Parisian restaurant. The focus is Mediterranean cuisine, with a fabulous use of seasonal ingredients and lots of options for vegetarians. It’s not cheap!

You can find more restaurants in Paris, check their menu, read the reviews and book a table on the app The Fork which can be downloaded on both iOS and Android.

Using a Paris Pass for your week in Paris

If you have a week in Paris, it may actually be convenient to get a city pass that gives you skip-the-line access to many attractions.

There are various options for the Paris Pass – some include pretty much all the attractions you may want to visit as a first-timer in the city, while others allow you to select which attractions you want to visit.

One thing to keep in mind is that not all passes include the Eiffel Tower – the only one that does is this Paris City Pass.

Furthermore, no matter which kind of pass you get you will have to make separate reservations for any attraction you wish to visit.

Make sure to read the terms and conditions and the inclusions of your Paris Pass very carefully.

There’s also the Paris City Card (it’s not the same as the Paris Pass), which allows you to pick a time-slot for the attractions you want to visit directly at the time of purchase.

Best time to visit Paris

Paris is a great city to visit year round, but it can get quite cold in the winter, and the days will be short. With a week in Paris, try to go in the late spring (May) or in the fall (October: that’s when I went when I visited the first time) for a bit longer days and more time to explore.

How to get to Paris

Paris can be easily reached from the rest of Europe and the world, by either train or plane.

The main airport in the city is Charles de Gaulle Airport – an Air France hud and the airport that is best connected to the city. The easiest and quickest way to get from Charles de Gaulle to the center of Paris is the train.

If you have a lot of luggage and want to travel a bit more comfortably, you could book a private transfer. My favorite company for private transfers anywhere in the world is Welcome Pickups.

My post How To Get From Charles De Gaulle Airport CDG To Paris shares more details and solutions to travel between the airport and the city.

How to move around Paris

While this Paris in a week itinerary is meant to minimize the use of public transportation, you will still have to take the subway at times. That is called “metro” in French. It actually works really well in the city.

A one-way ticket costs just €2.15, but there’s no such thing as individual tickets anymore. If you know you will be using the metro a lot, get the Navigo Card at the station and top it up with enough credit for your trip.

Get attraction tickets in advance

One of my most important tips for visiting Paris for the first time is not to take any chances and to book all the attractions that require an admission fee in advance. With skip-the-line tickets and pre-booked time slots, getting inside the most popular museums in Paris will be a breeze – as long as you show up on time.

Unfortunately, Paris is such a popular destination that even if you have a week, you shouldn’t improvise too much. There are attractions that in the peak summer season get sold out. Besides, the last thing you want to do is wasting precious time at a ticket counter.

Take it easy the day you arrive

Adrenaline may get the best of you once you land in the city after a long-haul flight, and you may feel like you have all the energy to explore. But as soon as you get to your hotel, you will feel like all you want to do is crash in bed.

I suggest an in-between solution.

Factor in about 2 hours from the moment you land (provided your flight is on time) to the time you get to your hotel. Freshen up a bit, go out for a walk in the neighborhood, have an early dinner and go to bed early.

You may even want to do an evening guided food tour as an introduction. This private food tour allows you to decide the time it starts. This other one is in Le Marais and starts at 2:00 pm, in case you get to Paris in the morning.

Luggage storage in Paris

Luggage storage facilities are scattered around Paris, usually close to train stations such as Gare du Nord. Storage starts at €5 per day but you have to book in advance. BagBnB is a good option for luggage storage.

Other useful tips

Dress for success

I come across so many people asking questions in Facebook groups about what to wear in Paris, worried that they may stick out as tourists or that they may not be dressed appropriately for such a fashionable city.

As an Italian slightly (please read the sarcasm in the italics!) obsessed with fashion, I can tell you you have nothing to worry about.

Like any other capital or big city in Europe, Paris gives you the freedom to wear whatever you want – including shorts! The only concern you should have is comfort, especially when it comes to shoes as you will be walking a lot.

My post What To Wear In Paris will help you select the items you should take with you on your Paris trip.

Get a data plan for your smartphone

Make sure you are able to use your smartphone when in Paris, at least for data to access apps such as Google Maps or Uber. There are many e-sims that are easy to install. If you get tickets to attractions via third-party booking sites you will be able to download an app that will allow you to access the tickets off line too.

Get a guide book

In the era of internet and everything available online, I still think that having a physical guide book is a good idea. Pick one that has maps, restaurant recommendations, and summaries of the attractions you will see.

Here are my favorite guides for Paris:

• Lonely Planet Paris guidebook
• DK Eyewitness travel guide Paris
• Rick Steves Paris Pocket Guide

Mind the scams

Paris is not immune from scams, so you should keep your eyes open and inform yourself about them in order to avoid them.

I have written a detailed guide on the most common Paris scams that you should read.

Briefly, the most typical scams include the friendship bracelet – stay away from anyone who is keen to tie a bracelet on your wrist; the lost / found ring; the ball and cup scam. Don’t listen to anyone who claims to be raising funds for disadvantaged categories either.

Mind pickpockets who are especially active on the subway and on trains.

Get a good travel insurance

With a week in Paris, you definitely need to get a good travel insurance. Make sure to read my post Why You Need A Good Travel Insurance. I recommend Heymondo as one of the best travel insurance companies.