The city of Paris has aura to it, that you feel as soon as you take your first step in this magical city. The size and scale of Paris can initially feel overwhelming, but with the right planning, you can get the most out of the city during a 3-5 day stay. The purpose of this guide is to highlight the must see areas of Paris, and give you ideas on what sites to see, and more importantly in Paris, where to eat! Every travel style is different, so use this guide as an overview to pick and choose what works best for you.
If you are wanting a customized itinerary, based on your personal travel style and days in Paris, send me a message and I can help create the perfect Parisian experience for you!
Where to Stay?
Oberkampf
Whether you are looking to explore the arts, food, or nightlife, Oberkampf has something for
everyone. It is known for its lively atmosphere, trendy cafes, and artistic vibe. On Rue
Oberkampf you will find dozens of bars, from cocktail bars to wine bars and basement dives. If you are looking for a unique and dynamic experience in Paris, Oberkampf is the perfect
destination.
Hotel options
Bastille
Similar to Oberkampf, Bastille is one of the trendiest areas of Paris. With a wide variety of
restaurants, cafes and bars on offer, there is plenty to keep you entertained after a busy day
exploring the city. A highlight of the area is the Place d’Aligre, which is an open air
marketplace that is a beloved spot among locals.
Hotel options
Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is a historic neighborhood in the heart of Paris, located on the left bank of
the Seine River. It is known for its bohemian atmosphere, intellectual legacy, and charming
narrow streets. This area is a great spot to start you day, as you can start off with some
amazing pastry options, before heading towards some of the bigger sites that Paris has to
offer.
Key Sites
Luxembourg Gardens
Start your morning at the Luxembourg Gardens, before heading into the heart of the
Latin Quarters. This public park covers a large area and has tree-lined promenades,
flower gardens, and a large pond. Relax on one of the many benches and take in the
surroundings.
Rue Moffetard
One of the oldest and most famous streets, it is known for being a daily market that is
buzzing with locals (especially on Saturday and Sunday mornings). Take a leisurely
stroll and enjoy the food options that are on offer.
Pantheon
A historical monument, with stunning views of Paris from the top of the dome.
Boulevard Saint-Michel
A vibrant street, with beautiful architecture, that you can follow down towards the
Seine and Notre Dame
Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
A haven for book lovers, with shelves packed with a wide range of literature.
Notre Dame
End your time in the Latin Quarter by seeing Notre Dame. While it is closed to visitors
following the 2019 fire, you can still take in the impressive façade of the cathedral.
Quai De La Tournelle
This is the best spot to take in views of the Seine and Notre Dame. Great for a sunset spot and picnic. From there, you can wander down Quai Saint Bernard, that will have live music
and dancing on weekends.
Pont des Arts (opposite the Louvre)
While not technically in the Latin Quarter, but a natural next stop after seeing Notre Dame.
This pedestrian bridge crossing the River Seine is best known for the ‘Love Locks’ that
is covered across the railings. However, when dusk arrives, this is when the crowds
arrive with picnics and wine. Buskers and musicians are your free entertainment for
the evening, where you can party with locals, and take in one of the best views of Paris.
To Eat
A Lacroix Pâtissier: Pâtissier opposite Notre Dame
La Maison d’isabelle: THE BEST CROISSANT IN PARIS!
Montmartre
Montmartre is a charming and vibrant neighborhood that offers something for everyone.
Whether you are interested in art, history, or simply taking in the beautiful views of the city,
you will find it all in this picturesque part of Paris. I suggest visiting Montmartre in the
afternoon, and time your itinerary to see the sunset on steps of Sacre-Coeur Basilica.
Key Sites
Sacre-Coeur Basilica
Situated on the top of Montmartre hill, the basilica is famous for its distinctive white
dome, which can be seen from many parts of the city. Finish your time in Montmartre,
taking in the best view of the city.
La Maison Rose
La Maison Rose is a famous café, that is known for its pink façade, which is covered
with colorful flowers. This was a popular gathering place for artists and writers
throughout history and was frequented by Pablo Picasso.
Square Suzanne-Buisson
This is a public park named after the French Resistance fighter who was captured and
executed by the Nazis during WWII. It is a popular spot to relax, read a book, or enjoy a
picnic on a sunny day.
The Mur Je T’Aime
Also known as the ‘I Love You Wall,’ it is a public art installation made up of 612 tiles,
each inscribed with the words ‘I Love You; in over 300 different languages.
Clos de Montmartre
This is the last remaining vineyard within the city limits of Paris. While it is closed to
the public, you can still stroll around the area, and take in the vines from outside the
railings.
Place du Tertre
A public square that is filled with artists who paint and sell their work.
To Eat
A La Mere de Famille: Chocolatier
Le Consulat: Historic café and one of the oldest houses in Montmartre
Le Refuge: Simple bistro with French cuisine
Maison Landemaine: Bakery
Le Marais (Including Bastille and Oberkampf)
This area is one of my favorite parts of Paris to explore. You can spend an entire day walking
through the narrow streets, and come across a variety of unique shopping, restaurant and bar options. Le Marais is a perfect spot so come for lunch, or return at night to enjoy the many restaurant and nightlife options.
Key Sites
Place des Vosages
A historic square that is considered to be one of the most beautiful and picturesque
squares in Paris. Perfect spot for a picnic, strolling and people watching.
La Maison Rose
La Maison Rose is a famous café, that is known for its pink façade, which is covered
with colorful flowers. This was a popular gathering place for artists and writers
throughout history and was frequented by Pablo Picasso.
Pompidou Center
The building itself is a unique and iconic piece of architecture, and inside is the
National Museum of Modern Art, which is one of the largest collections of modern and
contemporary art in Europe. Including artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Warhol
etc. Go to the rooftop restaurant ‘Georges,’ for an exception view of Paris and its
monuments.
Rue Des Rosier
The center of the Jewish quarter of Paris, the street is lined with kosher food shops,
bakeries, bookstores, and clothing stores.
Coulee Verte
This unique park runs alongside the site of an old railway and is one of the more
popular green spaces in Paris. The park features an elevated walkway that runs above
the streets of Paris.
BHV Marais
Large department store if you want to do any shopping.
To Eat/Drink
Pain vin Fromage: Bread wine and cheese. What more do you need!
Astier: If you love your cheese go here. They have a wonderful ‘serve yourself’ cheeseboard and is very Parisian
Robert: My personal favorite restaurant in Paris. Unique Mediterranean dishes with a set menu
Aux Deux Amis: French tapas restaurant
Septime: Michelin star restaurant with set menu for both lunch and dinner. Bookings must be done well in advanced to get a table.
Ave Maria: Fun atmosphere with food and drink options
Café Charbon: Similar style to Ave Maria. Fun bar with good music and food options
The Eiffel Tower
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is an obvious must see while exploring Paris, and there are many
ways to do this. Below I will highlight what I believe to be the best way to experience this site.
Time your visit to be later in the afternoon, as the Eiffel Tower is lit up at dusk. This light show is on for 5 minutes, every hour on the hour. The best entry point for the Eiffel Tower is from the Southeast side. This way you can walk through the Champ de Mars and allows for some of the best photo opportunities of you and the tower, as well as a potential picnic spot.
From there you can walk under and around the tower, taking in the scale of this tower. There
is an option to go up the Eiffel Tower, and see the view of the city, however, I believe there are better options to view the city, and they include seeing the Eiffel Tower. After seeing the
lightshow up close, make your way across the Seine to the French restaurant 6 New York.
While this may feel like a tourist trap, you are able to sit outside on the patio, have a glass of
champagne and take in the lightshow from a distance.
To really take in not only the Eiffel tower, but many of the main sites of Paris, I highly
recommend taking a River Cruise on the Seine. Bateaux Parisiens have multiple options from
sightseeing cruises to dinner cruises.
If you have the time, I recommend visiting Le Café du Commerce for lunch. A 15-minute walk
south of Champ de Mars, this is a delightful 3 story former Citroen canteen built around a
closed courtyard, and is a very traditional French restaurant.
Museums
Paris has some of the best and most famous museums in the world. You can spend all your
time visiting museums, but not even get close to seeing them all. The two most famous, Louvre and Osray museums, are considered you ‘must-visits’ but I would highly recommend doing your research beforehand, so you know what you want see. As both museums can be
extremely busy at all times of the year, make sure you buy a ‘skip-the-line’ ticket, so you do
not end up standing in a line all day. Headout is a great option to get these tickets.
If you want more information on these museums, or any other museums in Paris, please reach out to me directly, and I can give more information on what options there are.
Day Trips
Versailles
Only a 30–45-minute train ride from Paris, you will find the city of Versailles. Known for the
Chateau de Versailles, this grand palace was once the residence of the French kings and
queens. It is unparalleled example of the grandeur and opulence of the French monarchy.
Expect to spend an entire day here to take it all in.
Champagne Region
Only an hour from Paris is the world-famous wine region of Champagne. By renting a car in
Reims, it is easy to explore the Champagne region, and get a taste of what is to be offered in a day. If you are wanting to make this day trip, or spend more time in the region, please let me know and I can share more detailed itinerary.