The Ultimate 5 Day Itinerary in Paris

Known as The City of Lights, Paris is a constant source of wonder and a perfect illustration of the French art of living. Discover grand Haussmanian boulevards, sublime monuments, museums housing some of the world’s finest works of art, boutiques of the greatest fashion houses and art galleries, bistros and café terraces and inviting quays of the Seine.

Here’s our 5-day itinerary in Paris to explore the city’s true potential, through emblematic sites, gourmet restaurants and small, authentic addresses shared by Parisians.

Itinerary

• Day 1
• Day 2
• Day 3
• Day 4
• Day 5

Day 1 In Paris

Louvre Museum

Along the Seine, in the heart of Paris, the Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums. The former royal residence is a must-see for its sublime Renaissance architecture, Ieoh Ming Pei’s glass pyramid, the Tuileries gardens opposite and its incredible collection of works of art and historical objects. European masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, The Victory of Samothrace and Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Guiding the People can be admired here.

Jardins du Palais Royal

The Louvre Museum is right next door to the Comédie Française, whose neoclassical architecture is well worth a visit. The Place Colette metro stop, made of large colored pearls by artist Jean-Michel Othoniel, is a must-see. Then take the passage under the arcades to discover a magical place: the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais Royal, decorated with columns by Buren, followed by the Jardins du Palais Royal, a green setting that doubles as an architectural gem. Under the arcades, numerous boutiques and galleries offer visitors everything from Manolo Blahnik pumps to vintage couture dresses by Didier Ludot. The Muscade patisserie, in particular its Pomme bretonne, is a delight.

Vivienne Gallery

As you leave the gardens, it’s a must to pass through the Galerie Vivienne, one of Paris’s prettiest covered passageways. It has retained its charm of yesteryear and is home to numerous boutiques, in particular that of designer Alexis Mabille, where you can admire sublime dresses.

Lunch at Brasserie Le Vaudeville

Le Vaudeville is an ode to the elegance of early 20th-century Parisian brasseries. Its Art Deco style is enhanced by period woodwork, leather banquettes, mirrors and stained glass windows. Located in front of Agence France Presse and the Palais Brongniart, the former Paris stock exchange which now hosts numerous events such as the Tranoi during Fashion Week, journalists and fashion victims are frequent visitors. Traditional French cuisine and excellent seafood.

Boulevard Haussmann and Galeries Lafayette

To get to Galeries Lafayette, you must first walk along Boulevard Haussmann, named after Baron Haussmann, the high-ranking civil servant and politician who initiated the transformation of Paris in the 19th century and gave the new stone buildings along the main Parisian avenues the name “Haussmannian”. Part of the Paris Art Nouveau style, the Galeries Lafayette building is majestic, and its neo-Byzantine glass dome by master glassmaker Jacques Gruber is the highlight of the show. Just outside the Galeries is the Opéra Garnier, an eclectic architectural gem, with its facade adorned with columns and sculptures of Baroque and Classical influence, its Italian Renaissance-inspired towers and its Byzantine-style dome.

Place Vendôme, Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde.

From Place de l’Opéra, head for Place Vendôme, one of the capital’s most prestigious squares, home to the world’s leading jewelry houses, including Chaumet, Van Cleef & Arpels and Bulgari. For a gourmet break, the nearby Cédric Grolet patisserie or the Le Meurice patisserie by Cédric Grolet is a must in the capital. Nearby, the Jardin des Tuileries is the perfect place to sit on a chair beside a fountain or to head straight for the Place de la Concorde, the capital’s largest square. It is home to the obelisk, a gift to France from the Viceroy of Egypt, Mehemet Ali, which witnessed such historic events as the execution of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette at the heart of the bloody French Revolution.

Option 1 – An Evening at the Opéra Garnier to See A Ballet 

The ballet company of the Opéra national de Paris is one of the most prestigious in the world, and to see a ballet within the walls of the Opéra Garnier is an experience like no other. From the grand Second Empire staircase to the foyer, a gallery adorned with paintings, gilding and chandeliers, to the hall topped by Marc Chagall’s fresco, the Opéra is one of the capital’s most beautiful architectural works.

Option 2 – Dinner With Omar Dhiab

Recognised as one of the new faces on the French gastronomic scene, Omar Dhiab’s modern cuisine features a strong emphasis on plants, punctuated by memories of family recipes. The layout of his restaurant allows visitors to see right from the entrance, the kitchen located behind a marble and wood counter. The dining room offers an intimate atmosphere thanks to a harmonious blend of raw walnut, solid oak and two warm alcoves.

Day 2 in Paris

Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots

What better way to start this second day than with a visit to the capital’s two most famous cafés, both located in Saint-Germain-des-Près: Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore. Historically they were hot spots for intellectual, literary and artistic gatherings but today they are the haunts of celebrities. Both offer the typical atmosphere of Parisian cafés and are separated by just one street. Choose your favorite on the spot! Les Deux Magots has the advantage of being opposite the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Près.

Musée d’Orsay

Like the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay is on the left bank of the Seine, opposite the Tuileries Gardens. Located in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay houses one of the world’s largest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night can be admired here. In addition to the works of art, the museum’s interior is fascinating, with its large clocks and glass roof illuminating the sculpture room.

Lunch at the Pied de Fouet (whip foot)

For a bite to eat before exploring the Saint-Germain-des-Près district, Le Pied de Fouet is a charming French cuisine restaurant that combines authenticity and conviviality. On gingham tablecloths, you can sample escargots de bourgogne, delicious confit de canard and many other local specialties.

Saint-Germain-des-Près

Saint Germain-des-Près is a festive district of the capital, long known as a haunt of artists and jazz clubs. Its church, located just outside the metro station of the same name, is one of the oldest in Paris, and one of the last vestiges of Romanesque art in the capital. To the left of the church, along the charming little rue de l’Abbaye, you turn left into the sublime Place Furstenberg, the setting for the final scene of Martin Scorsese’s film The Time of Innocence, starring Daniel Day-Lewis. Back on Rue de l’Abbaye, you’ll reach Rue de Buci, one of the liveliest streets in Paris, with its many cafés and restaurants. Finally, head to rue Saint-André des Arts to admire the contemporary art on show at the Galerie Kamel Mennour.

Place Saint-Michel and Notre Dame de Paris

On Place Saint-Michel, we pass the fountain inspired by Raphael’s painting in the Louvre, symbolizing the struggle between Good and Evil. The Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris can already be seen along the quays of the Seine. Following a fire in 2019, the cathedral is currently being restored and is only partially open to the public, but remains a must-see.

Gourmet break at Berthillon

A veritable Parisian institution, the Berthillon ice cream parlour offers artisanal ice creams and sorbets with no artificial colouring or flavouring. A favourite: the combination of gianduja and pear flavors; a delight to be savoured while enjoying the view of the Seine and the charm of the Île Saint-Louis.

The Panthéon, Jardin du Luxembourg and Place Saint Sulpice

To reach the Panthéon, climb Montagne Sainte Geneviève (which is more of a hill) to admire this neo-classical monument to France’s great personalities. Next, take Avenue Soufflot, which leads to the Jardins du Luxembourg, and stroll through these beautiful French gardens, where the Senate sits enthroned. We emerge at the latter to discover the Théâtre de l’Odéon, one of Paris’s oldest theatrical institutions, and the imposing baroque church of Saint Sulpice.

Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche

To round off your stroll, head to the Bon Marché Rive Gauche, opposite the Lutetia. Paris’s first department store was founded by Aristide and Marguerite Boucicaut in 1852. With its fixed prices, low margins, home deliveries, mail-order sales, sales and more, it represented a revolution and quickly attracted a prestigious clientele. Famous for its central atrium and large glass roof, the store was home to all the major brands.

Dining at Mosuke

Mosuke is a leading address on the Parisian gastronomic scene, with a creative menu designed by chef Mory Sacko, who draws his inspiration from African and Asian cultures. Decorated in an elegant contemporary style, with its central bar and open kitchen, the restaurant offers a convivial atmosphere.

Day 3 in Paris

Château de Versailles

A former royal residence, the Château de Versailles represents the splendor of the French monarchy and its court, and is one of the greatest marvels of 17th-century French art. Originally the hunting lodge of Louis XIII, it was his son Louis XIV who installed his court and government here in 1682. The splendour of the rooms, and in particular the legendary Galerie des Glaces, is matched only by the power of the court’s greatest subjects. The park and gardens, with their fountains, sculptures, lakes, groves and flowerbeds, are recognised as some of the most beautiful in the world. The park also features the Petit Trianon, once Marie-Antoinette’s private residence, and the Hameau de la Reine, a group of cottages built for the queen and her friends.

Starlit lunch at Les Airelles

In the heart of the Château de Versailles, the Michelin-starred Les Airelles restaurant offers “modernised period cuisine” by Alain Ducasse. The three- or five-course menu uses Louis XIV’s favourite produce grown near the Château, and is served according to the art de la table dictated by Louis XVI. The décor is elegant and intimate, with classic furniture and soft colours contributing to the peaceful atmosphere.

Bartabas Equestrian Academy Show

Shows at the Bartabas Equestrian Academy combine equestrian art, dance, music and theatre in beautiful stagings and sumptuous settings. This original experience is a fabulous discovery for lovers of art and animals.

Day 4 in Paris

Center Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou was created at the request of President Georges Pompidou, who wished to dedicate an institution to modern artistic creation. The building was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers and features an astonishing shape with gigantic multicoloured pipes. The center houses the world’s largest collections of modern art, with works by Pablo Picasso, Constantin Brancusi, Marc Chagall, Sonia Delaunay, Fernand Léger…

Lunch at Ogata

In the heart of the Marais, Paris’s fashion and art gallery district, Ogata offers an immersion in Japanese culture and a wonderful gastronomic experience. Architect and designer Shinichiro Ogata has combined a tearoom, restaurant, bar, boutique and gallery in a simple, intimate 800 m2 setting. Please note, no cell phones are allowed here.

A Visit to the Thaddeus Roppac Gallery

Located opposite Ogata, the Thaddeus Roppac gallery is a contemporary art institution featuring internationally renowned artists such as Georg Baselitz and Miquel Barceló.

Place des Vosges

Place des Vosges is a symbol of the prestige of the monarchy, considered one of the most beautiful squares in the city, with its garden and red-brick arcades. Under its arcades are boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and museums (Victor Hugo’s house).

Jazz evening at Le Duc des Lombards

Le Duc des Lombards is one of Paris’s most famous jazz clubs. It offers an eclectic program ranging from traditional to contemporary jazz and welcomes both established and emerging artists. Its decor and subdued lighting, combined with excellent acoustics, create the ideal atmosphere for an evening of music.

Day 5 in Paris

Chez Mamiche

In the heart of Paris’s 9th arrondissement, a trendy mineral district, the Mamiche artisan bakery is an absolute delight. The bakery’s claim to fame is its ultra-human craftsmanship, with good homemade products that don’t come in ultra-standardized shapes. One of their specialties is the cookie: crisp on the outside, soft and melt-in-the-mouth on the inside.

A Trip to Montmartre

The legendary stronghold of bohemian artists and the narrow cobbled streets of Montmartre draw crowds. Whether you climb the steps or take the funicular, reaching the top of the hill allows you to approach and enter the neo-Byzantine-style Basilique du Sacré-Coeur and admire the panoramic view over the capital. Just a few yards away, Place du Tertre is home to numerous portraitists and caricaturists, and on the other side, below, the Montmartre vineyards are a charming green setting.

Lunch at Coloré

Coloré is a Franco-Japanese café with a creative menu designed by young Japanese chef Megumi Takehana. Its white façade and simple interior contrast with the richly flavoured tapas and dishes.

Avenue des Champs Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

After lunch, head for the south-west of the Right Bank for a completely different atmosphere as we explore Paris’s posh and glitzy 8th arrondissement. Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré is one of the capital’s most prestigious addresses, with its many fashion boutiques, jewelry shops and galleries, but above all, it’s home to the Palais de l’Elysée, the residence of the President of the Republic. A walk around the Palais leads to the Champs Elysées avenue, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, home to mainstream names and prestigious brands such as Louis Vuitton, whose headquarters are located here. At the top of the avenue, on the Place de l’Étoile, stands the Arc de Triomphe, an emblematic monument celebrating the military victories of Napoleon Bonaparte and housing the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an unidentified French soldier who died in the First World War.

Avenue Montaigne

Even more luxurious than rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, avenue Montaigne is the luxury shopping avenue par excellence, with its grand Haussmanian buildings fronted by fenced gardens, its trees and, above all, its haute couture boutiques such as Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Valentino and Hermès.

The Eiffel Tower

Once you’ve crossed the Avenue de Montaigne to reach the quays of the Seine, you can see the metallic silhouette of the Eiffel Tower. A symbol of France, it was built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Universal Exhibition. While it’s well worth climbing to its summit, it’s also superb when admired from the Trocadero esplanade.

Dinner and Show at the Moulin Rouge

To round off the day, spend an evening at the Moulin Rouge, the legendary Parisian cabaret in the heart of the lively Pigalle district. Step back in time to the festive life of the Belle Epoque, when artists such as Toulouse Lautrec sketched the silhouettes and movements of such famous dancers as Louise Weber, known as La Goulue. The “Féerie” show features four tableaux with acrobats, circus artists and costumed dancers, which can be admired while enjoying a delicious gourmet dinner.

Stay at the Lutetia Paris

Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, on Boulevard Raspail opposite Le Bon Marché, the Lutetia is an emblematic Paris hotel that resonates with the history of the capital, and indeed the country.

Inaugurated in 1910, the hotel was created by the Boucicaut, founders of Bon Marché, to accommodate their wealthy clientele. It embodies the emergence of Art Deco in a Belle Époque still under the spell of Art Nouveau. The hotel closed its doors in 2014 to undergo a major renovation by star architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte to bring the hotel up to date while respecting its Art Deco heritage. The hotel reopened in 2018, becoming the only palace on the Left Bank.

The hotel’s 184 rooms offer a range of styles reflecting Parisian chic in soft tones from white to gray to blue. The Eiffel Deluxe Room offers a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower. A romantic refuge, the Suite Amour reveals a breathtaking view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower from its niche terrace, the ideal room for a honeymoon. And the Penthouse Eiffel with its 360° roof terrace offers one of the city’s finest panoramas for breathtaking dinners.

The Lutetia is renowned for its gourmet addresses. With its Art Deco design and outdoor terrace, La Brasserie Lutetia is an institution in the Saint-Germain-des-Près district, offering classic French cuisine and contemporary creations by Chef Patrick Charvet. It’s an integral part of the neighbourhood, as the locals have become regulars. Le Saint-Germain reveals a lounge bathed in light under a glass roof painted by artist Fabrice Hyber; it’s the place to be for gourmands, especially during Afternoon Tea offered by Pastry Chef Nicolas Guercio.

The Bar Joséphine – a tribute to Josephine Baker, famous music-hall performer, jazz icon and frequent customer of the Lutetia – features a sublime Art Deco fresco painted in 1910, which underwent 17,000 hours of restoration.

With its speakeasy atmosphere and electro and acid jazz DJ set evenings, Bar Aristide invites you to discover an exclusive cocktail menu signed by Chef Barman Nicola Battafarano in an atmosphere worthy of a private club.

The Spa Akasha – meaning “the four elements” in Sanskrit – offers six treatment rooms, a sauna, a hammam, an ice water bath and a Jacuzzi. A haven of well-being, the spa offers a complete range of treatments combining modern Western practices with traditional Eastern know-how. The Lutetia also boasts a 17-metre swimming pool and one of the finest fitness facilities in the capital.

Book Your Stay in Paris

Here at Lartisien, we handpick our selection of luxury hotels in Paris for guests to immerse themselves in exceptional service, facilities and experiences. Our Guest Experience Managers will ensure your stay is unforgettable, providing a tailored service to explore the city. Contact us for more information about our hotel collection, a booking, or find out more about discovering France. 

If the hotel is fully booked or you wish to stay in another hotel, the Lartisien collection in Paris also includes the following hotels: Ritz Paris, Le Meurice, Hôtel de Crillon, Le Bristol Paris, La Réserve Paris Hotel & Spa, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Bulgari Hotel Paris, Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Maison Villeroy, The Peninsula Paris.