5 Days in Paris: From the Eiffel Tower to Hidden Cafés
Paris is a city that effortlessly blends the grand and the intimate, where iconic landmarks stand just blocks away from tucked-away courtyards and secret cafés. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover beyond the postcard-perfect sights.
This 5-day itinerary takes you from the Eiffel Tower’s dazzling heights to the hidden corners of Montmartre, weaving in world-class museums, riverside strolls, and local dining spots that Parisians cherish. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the City of Light.
Day 1: The Classics—Eiffel Tower, Seine River, and the Louvre
Start your adventure at Trocadéro, the best spot for a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, especially in the morning when the light is perfect for photos. After admiring Paris’s most famous landmark, take the elevator to the top for sweeping city views. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the stairs to the second level—it’s a climb, but the views are worth it!
From there, enjoy a Seine River cruise, gliding past Notre-Dame, the Musée d’Orsay, and under the city’s historic bridges. Disembark near the Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and thousands of masterpieces. Pro tip: Visit on a Wednesday or Friday evening when the museum stays open late and the crowds are thinner.
Day 2: Montmartre’s Bohemian Charm
Montmartre, the artists’ quarter, has an entirely different rhythm from the rest of Paris. Start at Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop the city’s highest hill, where the panoramic view is worth the climb. Wander through the Place du Tertre, where painters still capture the lively street scenes, and don’t miss a stop at Café des Deux Moulins, made famous by Amélie.
Explore the quieter backstreets to find Rue des Saules and the last remaining vineyard in Paris, Clos Montmartre. Nearby, Le Refuge des Fondus offers a quirky dining experience where wine is served in baby bottles—yes, really! Montmartre is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and let curiosity guide you.
Day 3: The Left Bank and Latin Quarter
Cross the Pont des Arts and step into the literary heart of Paris—the Latin Quarter. Start at the historic Shakespeare and Company, a bookstore with a fascinating past and cozy reading nooks. Just around the corner, Notre-Dame Cathedral still stands proudly, and while restoration continues, you can admire its Gothic façade and visit the nearby crypt museum.
For lunch, seek out Le Procope, the oldest café in Paris, where Voltaire and Napoleon once dined. Then, explore the Jardin du Luxembourg, a perfect spot to unwind under tree-lined paths. If you love museums, the Musée Rodin offers an intimate look at the sculptor’s masterpieces, including The Thinker, set in a gorgeous garden.
Day 4: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Today is all about discovering Paris beyond the tourist trail. Start in the Marais, a historic district with charming medieval streets and Place des Vosges, the city’s oldest planned square. Stop by Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest food market in Paris, for a bite of authentic Parisian street food.
Venture into Canal Saint-Martin, a trendy area lined with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and some of the best coffee spots in town. Grab a croissant from Du Pain et des Idées, one of the most beloved bakeries in Paris, and enjoy a slow afternoon by the water, watching locals picnic along the canal.
Day 5: Versailles or a Day of Leisure
If you’re up for a half-day trip, hop on the RER C train to Versailles and immerse yourself in the opulence of the Palace of Versailles. Wander through the Hall of Mirrors, then escape the crowds by exploring the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette, a peaceful retreat within the grounds. Arrive early to avoid long lines, and don’t skip the gardens, especially on fountain show days.
Alternatively, stay in the city for a relaxed final day. Stroll through Rue Cler, one of the most charming market streets in Paris, or visit Sainte-Chapelle, where stained glass windows create a kaleidoscope of color. End your trip in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, sipping coffee at Café de Flore, once the haunt of Hemingway and Picasso. Paris has a way of making you feel like you belong, even on your last day.
