Day 1: The Iconic Eiffel Tower and Its Surroundings
Get an early start for optimal enjoyment at the Eiffel Tower, a monument synonymous with the city of Paris itself. Its construction for the 1889 World’s Fair still captivates millions. Nestled in the spacious Champ de Mars, the tower offers a panoramic view of Paris from its observatories.
Adjacent to the Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro Gardens and Palais de Chaillot deserve a visit. The large Warsaw Fountain and sculptured gardens set the tone for an invigorating day. Walkways from the Eiffel Tower lead straight to this mesmerizing area.
Day 2: The Art-Centric Louvre Museum and the Haunting Catacombs
Start day two at the Louvre, the world’s most-visited art museum. It’s home to almost 35,000 works of art, including the renowned Mona Lisa. Time flies exploring galleries spanning from Egyptian antiquities to modern masterpieces.
The Catacombs of Paris offer a different kind of historical experience. Visitors journey through a network of underground corridors lined with beautifully arranged human skulls and bones. The Catacombs have silently stood as a reflection of the city’s past since the 18th century.
Day 3: Champs-Elysées and Arc de Triomphe
The Champs-Elysées holds the title as the city’s most famous shopping street. High-end brands mix with popular fashion stores along this lively avenue. Sights include the Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and picturesque gardens in between.
The Champs-Elysées ends at the Arc de Triomphe, built to honor the French soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars. The top offers a breathtaking view of Paris. Below, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier rests, having been re-interred after World War I.
Day 4: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Montmartre, known as the bohemian heartbeat of Paris, stands as the pinnacle of artistic life. Once home to Picasso and Van Gogh, its winding streets entice with cozy cafes, wine shops, and vibrant art studios.
The journey through Montmartre naturally leads to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This stunning white church dominates the city’s skyline. Its highest point offers a sweeping view of Paris, framed perfectly by the basilica’s architectural splendor.
Day 5: Sainte-Chapelle, Notre Dame, and Ile de la Cité
Start the day exploring the Ile de la Cité, an island in the heart of Paris. It holds both the magnificent Sainte-Chapelle and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Sainte-Chapelle astonishes visitors with it’s intricate stained glass while Notre-Dame stands as an unforgettable symbol of Gothic architecture despite recent damages.
While on the island, enjoy a leisurely lunch on Rue Chanoinesse. This charming street is lined with quaint cafes and bakeries, perfect for an authentic Parisian meal.
Day 6: Les Invalides, Seine River, and Latin Quarter
Navigate to Les Invalides, a complex of museums and monuments relating to France’s military history. The Dome des Invalides acts as the final resting place for Napoleon Bonaparte and other French war heroes.
In the afternoon, a Seine River cruise displays Paris’s famed architecture from a whole new perspective. Cruises pass by iconic landmarks and under famous bridges, creating a unique sightseeing experience.
Finish the day in the Latin Quarter, known for its student life and lively atmosphere. Explore Rue Mouffetard’s open-air markets, vintage bookstores, and feel the pulsating energy of the city.