Are you looking for the ultimate 4 days in Paris itinerary?
4 days in Paris is the perfect amount of time to explore the City of Light. There are so many fabulous things to do in Paris.
I was in Paris celebrating my daughter’s birthday and best of Paris was certainly crammed into my short time there.
Planning your trip to Paris France last minute?
Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours usually sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top selections for Paris!
Top Experiences and Tours in Paris France:
- Louvre Museum Timed Entrance Ticket (Skip the line!)
- Eiffel Tower Summit/2nd Floor Direct Access (Likely to sell out!)
- One-Hour Seine River Cruise (Starts at the foot of the Eiffel Tower)
- Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour (24 and 48-hour tours available)
Top Hotels In Paris France:
- Hotel Rivoli (Just steps from Notre Dame Cathedral.)
- Hotel Jules & Jim (Great location!)
- Novotel Paris Gare De Lyon (Great location – near the train station)
- Hotel Le Bellechasse Saint-Cermain (Near the Eiffel Tower!)
My visit was so extraordinary that I want to show you how to have the same experience when you decide to plan your own Ultimate 4 days in Paris itinerary!
Getting to Paris has never been easier or more convenient. However, depending on where you call home on our planet, it can make for a long travel day or night.
For that simple reason, arrival day to Paris is not considered as Day 1 of the Ultimate Four Days In Paris Itinerary. On arrival day whether you arrive by plane, train, automobile or bus, I’d suggest to keep it low key.
Take the rest of the day to recoup from the long travel, rest to get caught up on lost sleep, hydrate, possibly explore the neighborhood where you are staying a bit, and have a nourishing dinner.
Feel free to change up my following suggestions from day to day to make the Ultimate 4 Days In Paris Itinerary tailored to your specific needs during the time you are visiting Paris.
The Ultimate 4 Days In Paris Itinerary
Day 1: Begin your 4 Days in Paris by exploring the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River
Stop 1: Visit The Eiffel Tower
One of the most popular attractions in Paris is the iconic Eiffel Tower. It is one of the very first places most people visit, including me, when in Paris. The Tower is 1,063 feet tall and remains one of the tallest structures in Paris.
It was originally constructed as the gateway to the 1889 World’s Fair held in Paris.
Of course, you want to explore the Eiffel Tower, so set aside plenty of time during your first of 4 days in Paris to do so. If panoramic vistas of the Seine River and the city of Paris interest you, then visiting the Eiffel Tower is for you.
You may climb up to her elevation levels, or even to the top, but that is 1,665 steps. Up for the challenge?
My daughters actually walked up to the second level on a past trip to Paris and it was quite a lot of walking so proceed at your own risk!
Book Here: Eiffel Tower: Skip-the-Line Ticket with Summit Access
Book Here: Eiffel Tower: Morning Tour by Elevator with Local Guide
If you don’t want to walk up, you may ride up in the elevator which most people choose to do. Be aware, lines are extremely long from morning till night, most days, and you will be far better off purchasing tickets before you arrive.
There are even “skip the lines” options or you can visit Paris in winter for fewer tourists. Walking alongside and even under the Eiffel Tower is a very memorable thing to do, to get a perspective of just how large the monument is.
To photograph lasting memories of the Eiffel Tower during 4 days in Paris stroll across the street to the merry-go-round, (there’s a souvenir stand there!) or walk across the Seine River to the Trocadero Palace, built into the side of a hill, which affords EPIC shots of the Eiffel Tower.
Where To Stay Near The Eiffel Tower:
Affordable: Hôtel de la Tour Eiffel. Check Rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Grand Hôtel Lévêque. Check Rates: Booking.com
Eiffel Tower Views: Hotel Relais Bosquet Check Rates: Booking.com
Stop 2: Explore The Seine River
Since you are so close to the Eiffel Tower, the next thing to do in Paris is to explore the banks of the Seine River. There are long and lovely promenades to walk and people-watching is a fun thing to do.
During my visit, I ran along the River Seine and admired the architecture on the buildings and bridges I ran past.
Another way to explore the River Seine, and learn more about the lovely city of Paris during your 4 days in Paris, is to take a Seine River Cruise. A narrated cruise is like having your own personal tour guide, for a fraction of the cost.
My cruise lasted an hour and covered a lot of Parisian history and architecture, and was definitely enjoyable and I learned so much. It was a cold and windy afternoon when I cruised the River Seine, so I chose to sit inside where it was warm.
The floor-to-ceiling glass windows provided ample views for me to oooh and ahhh as we passed many major landmarks.
Most of the passengers chose to sit outside on the top level of the boat to have the best, unobstructed views for their picture taking.
Book Here: Paris: Bateaux Parisiens 2-Hour Lunch Cruise
Book Here: Paris: 1-Hour Illuminations River Cruise
Book Here: Paris: Early Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine
Stop 3: End Your Day At The Rue Cler Marketrue cl
End your first day in Paris by exploring Rue Cler – Paris’ most well-known street market. Located in the 7th arrondissement, it truly is a paradise to explore.
The best part about the Rue Cler market is that it isn’t overrun by tourists so you will get a glimpse into the Parisian local life.
It is open every day but Monday. You will find many restaurants to choose from, along with food markets, bars, pastry shops, and more. I admit I visited the gelato shop on the Rue Cler, many an evening!
The Rue Cler market, visiting the Eiffel Tower, and Seine Riverboat ride offer plenty to keep you busy on your first of four days in Paris!
Where To Stay Near Rue Cler:
Midrange: Grand Hôtel Lévêque. Check Rates: Booking.com
Day 2: Visit the World-Renowned Louvre Art Museum And The Seine At Sunset
Stop 1: Take In Art At The Louvre
No trip to Paris would be complete without visiting the famous Louvre Art Museum located within the Louvre Palace, to view its most precious paintings and artifacts. Start your second day in Paris off by visiting this famous art museum.
I would recommend going early if you want to spend a lot of time. I arrived around 12 noon and was there until 7 pm. The museum isn’t always open late so make sure you know its operating hours before you decide when to arrive and which day to visit.
In 2017 the Louvre was the most visited art museum in the world. You will most likely enter the museum through its main entrance, the Louvre Pyramid, one of Paris’ major landmarks.
While purchasing your tickets in advance is ALWAYS prudent. My family and I did not do so, and we did not experience long lines of frustrated tourists when we purchased our entry tickets on-site the morning of our visit.
Best Hotels Near The Louvre:
Affordable: Hotel Vivienne. Check rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Hôtel Odyssey by Elegancia Check rates: Booking.com
Upscale: Hôtel Regina Louvre Check rates: Booking.com
To be able to absorb all the beauty of the Louvre Art Museum, give yourself plenty of time on the second day of your 4 days in Paris. It is suggested no less than half of a day, but longer would permit you to enjoy the artwork and artifacts of 8 curated departments.
You can stroll the entire museum alone enjoying what the Louvre has to offer as I did, or you can participate in a guided tour. There is even a Louvre Museum phone app that can be quite helpful.
I did not know about the phone app when we visited the Louvre Museum but will be sure to use it the next time I go.
One unforgettable highlight of the Louvre was seeing The Mona Lisa. I could not get very close to the painting as she is protected by guards, and under glass, but close enough to snap a few pictures and gaze at DaVinci’s masterpiece.
The second highlight was seeing Venus De Milo,(Aphrodite) the famous ancient Greek statue missing her arms. There were no guards, nor was she surrounded by glass.
She was ready for up-close pictures and lots of them from the many visitors, including me. If you are hungry or thirsty, there is a restaurant in the Louvre for you to take a break and rest your feet and your back.
Book Here: Louvre Museum: Timed Entrance Ticket
Book Here: Louvre Museum: 3-Hour Comprehensive Tour with Skip the Line
Book Here: Louvre 2-Hour Private Tour for Families and Children
Stop 2: Eat Dinner At A Cafe Along The Seine And Wander Local Streets
To end your evening, exploring the River Seine, in the 2nd arrondissement, where the Louvre Art Museum is located, is a wise choice. An evening dinner overlooking the River Seine enjoying French cuisine would be unforgettable.
Strolling to local pastry shops for macarons or macaroons, or eclairs is a delightful way to end your second of 4 days in Paris.
It could hypothetically take years to get through the Louvre, so if you only have four days in Paris I highly recommend taking an entire day to visit the Louvre and then spend a relaxing evening on the Seine so you really get the most out of the experience.
If you are considering your Paris trip right now, here are some great posts you should check out later:
7 Things To Know Before Your First Time In Paris
The Ultimate 2 Days In Paris Itinerary
How to survive Long International Flights
How to Pack Light Using Just A Carry-On
How To Avoid Getting Sick On A Plane
Day 3: Explore Paris By Bicycle And Do Not Miss The Champs-Elysees
Stop 1: Visit The Champs-Elysees By Bike
Bike riding is very popular in European cities, and Paris is no exception. During your 4 days in Paris itinerary, begin your third day by renting a bike at one of the numerous Velib bike stations.
They are everywhere so you do not have to return your bike to the exact location where you rented it.
Head out to the fashionable Avenue des Champs-Elysees to visit one of the most well-known avenues in the world. And some of richest real estate on the planet!
Upscale and not-so-upscale shops and cafes and restaurants dot the Champs Elysees on both sides of the street.
Book Here: Full-Day Paris Bike Rental
Book Here: Discover the Heart of Paris by Bike
Stop 2: Go Up Inside The Arc de Triomphe
The Avenue des Champs-Elysees ends at the Arc de Triomphe, another of the famous monuments of Paris, a very short bike ride away. The Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France.
And there is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located there with an eternal flame which commemorates the war dead who were never identified.
Did you know you can walk and tour inside the Arc de Triomphe? Did you know there is an observation deck on the top of the Arc de Triomphe? I did not either! The climb to the top was relatively difficult because there were so many stairs, but it wasn’t impossible!
There is not an elevator to the top so unfortunately anyone wheelchair-bound or the infirm, or those unable to climb steep steps, will not be able to participate. Please be aware of this fact when planning your trip to the Ard de Triomphe.
Get Tickets Here: Paris: Skip-the-Line Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets
Along the way, there are drawings, explanations, and photographs of French war history as it relates specifically to the Arc de Triomphe. Once outside on the top observation deck, you will be generously rewarded with glorious views of the Eiffel Tower.
And be able to see the twelve radiating avenues that originate at the Arc. The epic views of the city of Paris are definitely unforgettable.
Where To Stay Near The Arc de Triomphe:
Affordable: Hôtel d’Argenson. Check rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Hotel The Peninsula Paris. Check rates: Booking.com
Luxury: Hôtel Raphael. Check rates: Booking.com
Stop 3: Make Time To See The Moulin Rouge
Next up, grab a bike from another Velib bike station and ride to the iconic Moulin Rouge, the most famous cabaret in the world. Located in the lively Montmartre section of Paris, there is always an eclectic vibe in this section.
World-class international stars such as Frank Sinatra and Elton John loved this venue and it is the center of many movies throughout history!
Look Here: Paris: Moulin Rouge Show with Champagne
Look Here: Paris: Champagne at The Moulin Rouge & Seine River Cruise
It was fun to visit this iconic club, and you may choose to return later for dinner and to watch the dazzling show. There is a dress code, so while riding a bicycle through Paris would not be the time to stop and eat and drink and feast your eyes at the Moulin Rouge.
If you want to go to a show at the Moulin Rouge, make sure to budget time in your 4 days in Paris itinerary and be sure to dress properly!
Where To Stay Near The Moulin Rouge:
Affordable: Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels. Check rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Hôtel Montmartre Mon Amour. Check rates: Booking.com
Stop 4: Visit One Of The Many Rooftop Bars In Paris
End your day of bike riding around Paris by exploring one of the many trendy rooftop bars Paris has to offer! Depending on the vibe you are looking for you are sure to find a local spot that appeals to you, possibly one where tourists and locals alike mingle.
Day 4 In Paris: Discover Gothic Cathedrals Around The City
Stop 1: Start The Day At Notellere Dame
The last day of your 4 days in Paris itinerary is all about the architecture! Three cultural, political, and religious Parisian icons stand out. The most well-recognized cathedral in the world is Notre Dame de Paris! (Our Lady of Paris.)
She is recognized worldwide as one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture anywhere. Her history is spectacular and it took hundreds of years to construct her.
I have read and watched the Hunchback Of Notre Dame my whole life so having the opportunity to visit the church in person was really quite a wonderful experience!
The inside of Notre Dame is quite beautiful and the church can get very busy. Although the line may look long, you will get through it relatively quickly so don’t worry! Once inside, the glorious stained glass rose window is one of the highlights of visiting Notre Dame, as is her gargoyles.
There is a generous Mass schedule at Notre-Dame de Paris if you are interested in attending, as well as a souvenir section to purchase religious articles.
You can also go up inside one of the bell towers, although it is a separate entry and a separate entry fee. In order to go up in one of the towers, you must walk around outside to the left side of the church [when facing it from outside] to a small door and entry area. A visit to Notre Dame is a must-see during your four days in Paris!
UPDATE: Due to the fire, spring 2019, please research Notre Dame updates. At this time it is closed, but it is definitely worth it to visit the church and walk around the exterior grounds.
Where To Stay Near Notre Dame:
Affordable: Sully Hôtel. Check rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Hotel Rivoli. Check rates: Booking.com
Upscale: Hôtel De Lutece – Notre-Dame. Check rates: Booking.com
Stop 2: Marvel At The Stained Glass At Sainte-Chapelle
Within close walking distance from Notre-Dame de Paris is the dazzling Sainte-Chapelle, a MUST SEE during any 4 days in Paris itinerary!
It is one of the lesser-known churches in Paris and since it is so near Notre Dame, many people just visit Notre Dame and skip this extremely exquisite church. Because they are not aware of it.
Sainte-Chapelle’s upper level has over 1,000 striking and gleaming stained glass windows that tell the story of the Bible. Arranged across 15 main windows, the stained glass panes display over 1,000 scenes from the Old and New Bible.
The bottom level of the structure is very plain because back in its day it was for staff and servants of the resident French king. Only the king and his advisors were permitted into the royal chapel on the second level.
You will enter the building from the bottom level which resembles a basement. You will think this area is pretty, but prepare yourself because that isn’t even the main chapel.
Once you climb up the stairs to the second story, you will be overwhelmed by the magnificence of the stained glass windows appearing before you.
There are pamphlets available in many languages explaining each of the 15 panels, and the panes of stained glass contained in them. Upstairs there is also a sumptuous rose stained glass window at Sainte-Chapelle which describes the Book of Revelation through its stained glass panels.
I would recommend budgeting at least 60 minutes to visit this church. It isn’t very big and is contained in one room, but you want to be sure you have enough time to see and process everything!
Purchase Tickets Here: Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie Combined Skip-the-Line Ticket
Purchase Tickets Here: Self-Guided Tour & Skip-the-Line Ticket to Sainte Chapelle
Stop 3: Drop Into A Cafe For A Crepe And Coffee
The island where Notre Dame and Saint Chapelle is located is full of wonderful cafes with plenty of outdoor seating. Before you move on to your next stop, take a few moments to wander the streets, and explore the island.
Grab a coffee and try out a French crepe and relax in the afternoon. This is the perfect time to eat lunch before moving on to the next stop. If you want to dine like a real Parisian, make sure to sit outside, even if it is in the winter!
Book Here: French Lesson at Cafe de Flore and Paris Guided Tour
Stop 4: Visit Montmartre And Sacre-Coeur
After you finish your lunch near Notre Dame, hop on the Paris subway and head up to the Montmartre district. It is located in the same vicinity as the Moulin Rouge, where you explored by bike on Day 3. Montmartre is a super cute and artistic part of Paris and a great place to explore on foot.
Located at the summit of Montmartre, the highest point of Paris is the Basicila of the Sacred Heart, Sacre-Coeur, with the style being described as Rome-Byzantine. It is not as “fancy” nor does it display as much excess as other styles of architecture in the area.
Because the church sits atop a hill, there are MANY steps to climb to the top. It isn’t quite as bad as the walk to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, so if you did that this will be a relatively easy climb for you.
That being said, there is an incline railway to catch if climbing is too daunting or there are elderly in your group. Because of the height, the top of Montmartre affords exceptional views of Paris and her communities and her most famous monuments.
The inside of the church is unique, but the view is easily the best part! You will be able to see all of Paris in one panoramic view.
Book A Tour Here: Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre Tour with Expert Guide
Book Here: Paris: Montmartre 2-Hour Walking Tour
Book A Tour Here: Family Experience: Montmartre Tour
Montmartre is a popular location, and back at the bottom of the hill in front of the basilica you will find streets bustling with people, both locals and tourists alike, as well as an abundance of souvenir shops and restaurants.
This is an excellent opportunity to pick up some special mementos to have or bring home to your loved ones, as the prices in the neighborhood are reasonable. This is the perfect place to cap off your 4 days in Paris itinerary as you will be able to find great souvenirs, from Parisian coffee and tea to shirts, hats, and mugs, all at a much more affordable price than other areas in the city!
Where To Stay In Montmartre:
Affordable: Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels. Check rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Timhotel Montmartre. Check rates: Booking.com
Midrange: Hôtel Montmartre Mon Amour. Check rates: Booking.com
How To Get To Paris To Begin Your 4 Days In Paris Itinerary
There are many ways to get to Paris, France, depending on where you are coming from. Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the largest and busiest and closest to the Paris City Center. It is the most popular airport for international flights arriving from all over the globe.
A little farther out is Paris Orly Airport, the second most frequently-used airport. Once you land in France, you will have many options on how to get to Paris. Y
ou can rent a taxi, hire an Uber driver, or take the train (public transportation) which would definitely be your most affordable option. The Parisian trains are very clean, as well as all the train stations.
You can purchase tickets right at the airport. The ticket machines are located right when you exit the secure section of the airport. Please be advised, there are lots of steps involved with the Parisian metro system.
So if you or a member of your party is infirm, or in a wheelchair, you will probably need to make other transportation arrangements.
If you will be arriving in Paris for your 4 days in Paris from other European countries, there are high-speed trains that arrive and depart frequently from all over Europe to Paris on a daily basis.
The main train stations you can access are Gare du Nord, Gare de I’Est or Gare de Lyon. If you reside in other parts of France, you may decide to drive to Paris as another option.
Read Next: How To Pack Light On Your Next Trip Using Only A Carry-on.
How To Get Around Paris During Your 4 Days In Paris Itinerary
Paris is so very easy to navigate around. If you are able and up to it, I’d suggest walking. Paris is a visually beautiful city, and there’s much to see and absorb, which you could/would miss if you were not walking.
Make sure you leave ample time to arrive at your destination and wear sturdy comfortable walking shoes.
The metro train system is very extensive in Paris, and probably the best transportation option you have. It’s fast, it’s cheap. And it arrives and departs frequently. You can purchase tickets at every station and a bundle of ten tickets costs less than a single ticket.
As I mentioned above, the metro is not an option for the wheelchair-bound or those unable to walk long distances or climb up and down stairs frequently.
There are also city buses and trains to consider when doing your 4 days in Paris itinerary. And you always have the option to get a taxi or hire an Uber driver.
Of course, if you drove to Paris using your own personal automobile, that is always an option for you, but beware, the streets of Paris are very crowded.
Packing Tips For Your 4 Days In Paris Itinerary
Use these useful packing tips when packing for your 4 days in Paris itinerary:
A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring with you on your 4 days in Paris itinerary. This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can keep your most valuable documents safe and secure next to your body.
You may have a pouch already and may not want to or need to invest in a new one, like me. If it does not come with the RFID protection, these RFID sleeves would be handy to prevent identity theft.
This configuration comes with enough passport and credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your current pouch or wallet.
These are the kind my family and I use not only when traveling but at home as well.
Make sure to remain hydrated during your trip. Bring your own water bottle, and refill it often.
Staying hydrated will give you more energy and boost your immune system, which in turn will be stronger to battle those germs you might encounter.
I always use this Bobble water bottle with filter whenever I travel. It is the perfect size to fit into a pocket or backpack. It is small enough not to add bulk or weight.
The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water.
Have a handy backpack/daypack with you. Y
This waterproof and lightweight daypack would be ideal to hold all of your incidentals for a daylong sightseeing trip in Paris.
One of its biggest advantages is that it folds up into a little pouch, which will help a lot when packing for your four days in Paris.
It is very affordable and comes in a variety of colors to choose from. This Columbia Daypack Backpack is another great option. And it comes in great colors as well.
UPDATE: Our family went on a repeat trip to Paris to celebrate my daughter’s #26 birthday. During that trip, 3 out of 4 of us were pickpocketed.
We thought we were vigilant and being safe. Unfortunately, the thieves were smarter than we were.
These backpacks/purses are specifically designed to be antitheft: this Travelon anti-theft slim women’s backpack comes in lots of colors and is very affordable.
E-Bags has this great medium slash-proof bag with locking zippers for your consideration.
I admit it is a bit more expensive, but your peace of mind is worth a lot too. This Travelon mini crossbody bag is very reasonably priced and comes in lots of colors.
Bring sturdy shoes because you will be walking a lot! Whether you take the metro, buses, trains or taxis, you will be walking more than usual during your 4 days in Paris itinerary. (Think, the Louvre Art Museum! )
I always bring a pair of sneakers when I travel. They are sturdy and comfortable for when I both run and walk.
These Sketcher’s high fashion sneakers are a not that expensive, and still have the support you need to keep your feet happy!
Plus they come in many fashionable colors for you to choose from.
Bring a lightweight scarf/shawl. Everyone in Europe, men, and women alike, rock scarves! Not only will the right scarf act as an accessory to your outfit, but it can also be used as an additional layering piece to keep you warm, or a cover to protect you from the sun when it is warm out.
This this fashion flowers print shawl or this solid fashion colored scarf would both be wonderful options to take on your trip when going on your 4 days in Paris itinerary.
A universal power adapter is a must during your 4 days in Paris itinerary to recharge your electronic devices. Don’t count on your hotel or Air B&B to supply them.
This all-in-one universal travel adapter is a good example is very affordable and comes in several cool colors for you to choose from.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod for my birthday. It is made of lightweight aluminum and is Bluetooth enabled.
It connects with my phone easily and it is actually very simple to take group photos or selfies with the remote control. I think it would be a great item to add to your 4 days in Paris packing list.
If you think you will be taking a lot of pictures during your 4 days in Paris, you should consider having an external phone charger with you in your backpack or purse.
This Anker compact and high-speed external battery charger is the exact model my two daughters use when they travel.
It is one of the smallest and lightest on the market. It is very reliable. It holds its charge and does not run out of juice.
It will recharge a phone several times before it needs to be recharged itself. And it is a universal charger. It can be used on any make of cell phone.
Quick Tips For Your 4 Days In Paris Itinerary
Here are some quick tips and tricks, combined with the ones above, which will make your 4 Days in Paris more enjoyable.
Remember, always stay hydrated! Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it often. You will be taking care of your health, and saving numerous disposable water bottles from being sent to the landfill.
Do not worry about the language barrier. I know only a very few basic French words and had absolutely NO difficulties when I visited Paris.
The French in Paris know a few English words and you will be able to communicate enough to make your wishes known. You can even use a translator app on your phone to assist with your communications.
Call your credit card company and verify if your credit card does or does not have foreign transaction fees attached to it.
If it does, inquire about applying for a credit card that does not charge you a small fee every time you use it when out of your home country.
When you visit an ATM in Paris, make sure it is in the same network with your bank so you are not charged transaction fees every time you withdraw cash.
Also, consider withdrawing larger amounts of cash, in order to limit the transaction fees.
Buy advanced tickets to attractions whenever possible. First off, usually tickets purchased in advance online are often less expensive.
Secondly, when you purchase tickets for the monuments and art museums suggested in the 4 days in Paris itinerary, you will have a schedule planned out and more able to pace yourself when you know the plans for every day of your trip.
Four days in Paris is a long enough time to get to know the City of Lights and marvel at all she has to offer: rich history, monuments and museums, street markets and cafes, and pastry shops you will visit many times (I did!).
Your ultimate 4 days in Paris itinerary has mapped out for you many of the highlights Paris has to offer.
Have you ever been to Paris? What was your favorite thing to do? What would be your #1 recommendation for a first-time visitor? Please comment below.
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Great itinerary. I love Paris and have been there many times. The Louvre and the Eiffel Tower are favs. I also love Musee D’orsay.
Thanks for the kind compliment Sue! I will have to check out the Musee D’orsay whenever I visit Paris again.
Brilliant guide! Still desperate to get over to Paris so have saved this for later.
Thanks Laura. You will get there, I know it!
Enjoyed your article. Planning to take the wife and daughter there maybe this Sept. Do you have a favourite place in Italy for 3 or 4 days?
Have you considered Rome & Florence? Two great choices with lots of history and things to do!
Excellent info, thanks.
Thank you Christine. Paris is such an exciting city!
Wow, you really captured some fantastic photos! Thank you for the information!
You are very welcome Tricia. Hope you get to Paris someday!
Those pictures are so beautiful, I am ready to hop on a plane right now!! It is a wonderful guide of Paris, and for being French, you definitely hit all of the must-sees!
Hey thanks, Laura. Appreciate the kind words!
What do you suggest regarding passport carry it with you leave it in the hotel baggage?
First off, always make a copy of your passport and credit cards. If you have access to a room safe, you can leave your passport there & carry a copy of it. Usually, I carry my passport with me on my body. And lock up all copies of my documents.
This brings back memories of our family trip to Paris a few years ago. I loved reminiscing using your post & photos! Paris is a lovely city to visit.
Thank you, Cynthia! I love Paris since my daughter introduced me to it. We are going back to celebrate her #26 birthday next week and I can’t wait. We are doing all different things this time than last time and that’s exciting.
Linda this is such a great itinerary. We went for the first time for three days and pretty much did everything you’ve got on this itinerary minus a couple of spots. All the more reason to go back right?
Yes, YES, all the more reason to go back!!!
Dear Linda
I am planning for my honeymoon trip to europe coming july ’19. Kindly share an itenary on some renowned places to be visited and how long does it take to visit ?
I am planning for a 2 weeks trip to Paris, London and Amsterdam.
Please suggest the most renowened places to be visited in all these cities as a priority and also suggest if more cities/places in these cities could also be covered.
Regards,
Ramya
Hi Ramya. Wow, that sounds like a fantastic honeymoon trip! I have lots of information about Paris and London and Amsterdam on my website, with lots of suggestions of things to do and things to see. Only you can decide how long you choose to stay in each city. Hope you have a wonderful trip.
I’m planning to go with my 16-year old daughter. Any ideas of what to do with a teenager in Paris?
Paris is so lovely I do not think you will have any problems at all. Of course, visit the Eiffel tower. You can even have dinner there. That was a very exciting thing to do. I would take her to Mont Montmartre. It is a very cool place. Souvenir shopping of course. The Parisian malls and “hidden passageways” are so eclectic. The Louvre is a must visit too. I think simply being IN Paris will excite any teenager. I truly hope you and your daughter have a memorable trip.
Hi. Thanks for your itinerary! Will be following it for this weekend. Could you share how the pickpocketing happened? Would like to know so we are more aware when I go with my family.
Of course. My daughter’s brand new camera was stolen from under our table when we were having snacks/drinks in a McDonalds in Montmartre. My backpack (while I was wearing it!) was unzipped while walking in the street near Notre Dame. TJ’s backpack was breached during a very crowded subway ride. Be vigilant!
Oh my gosh, so many interesting facts here. wow, such a stunning place & you photograph it so well. Thanks for the creative post!
You are so welcome. I hope it will help you plan you trip!
Great blog! In Paris we love the Muse d Orsey as all the impressionist painting are there. You can and should get tickets in advance. Also, the Pere Lachaise Cemetery (free) which has some really wonderful, artful carvings. Famous people buried there in a beautiful and historic setting.
Thank you for these suggestions! Next visit to Paris the Muse d Orsey is on my bucket list for sure!
Hi, We are planning a 4 day trip to Paris in summer 2020. I was looking to make hotel reservation. We are 2 adults and 2 kids less than 9years. The hotel price for just 2 adults vs. adding two kids show big difference, while that is not the case in US. Please advise. Also what area is better to stay? We will be taking a stop over, and hence will have lot of luggage. Will the hotels be safe to leave the luggage?
Thanks,
You are very fortunate to be spending time in Paris this summer. My family and I stay in the 7th District. Hotel pricing in Europe may be different than what you are used to in the USA. I always lock my luggage in my hotel room when I travel, just in case! Have a wonderful time in France.
Thank you Linda for all the great ideas. Your suggestions are much appreciated and helpful along with a reminder about pickpocketing. My 20 yr old daughter and I are heading to Paris in March! We will be heading to Normandy after we arrive at CDG, so we plan to catch the train to Bayeux from Gare St. Lazare and stay there for 2 nights. We are thinking of a bike tour the first full day in Paris (an Airbnb excursion) and plan to get Skip the Line tickets to the Eiffel Tower, Versalles and the Louve. Our list also includes Muse d’ Orsay, Sacre Cour, the Seine and of course many cafes and restaurants. Since you mentioned it, we hope to see inside Sainte Chapelle too.
Do you think we will have issues with public transportation? We were going to buy the Paris Pass for 5 days Zones 1-5 so we can travel from CDG airport to Versalles and more but worry about the strike. We always try to stay on a budget so any suggestions or ideas would be appreciated. We are staying at an Airbnb in both locations and feel comfortable with the areas but a bit unsure about getting to and fro with the current strike.
Thanks again,
Mary
Oh this sound like you have a wonderful trip planned for you and your daughter! To save a bit of money, you can plan to prepare some meals at your Air BB. No one really knows about the Paris strikes anymore. The last thing I heard was that they were over, but that could change in an instant. If you are active you & your daughter could rent bicycles ( I highly recommend) or get the very popular scooters. My family LOVES them, and I’m a bit more cautious. Safe travels and have a fantastic French trip!
Wow, this is a fantastic article, a lot of info I found here, it’s really helped me to plan for next trips thanks…
Thank you very much. I hope you get to Paris soon!
Hey Linda, I love this itinerary! So, we are staying in Paris 4 nights and then going to Rome and Venice for 5 nights. In Paris to accomplish this Itinerary in 4 days using only the metro, which hotels do you think would be best to look at? We don’t want to move around in Paris, just one hotel if possible. TIA
Carolyn, in this article are frequent recommendations for hotels throughout the city. If you’d like additional options you can look at this list: https://lindaontherun.com/boutique-hotels-in-paris/