Planning a trip to Paris and wondering how many days you’ll need? Five days is the sweet spot to see the best of the French capital without feeling rushed. Within five days, you can stroll past iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, wander through charming neighborhoods such as Montmartre, and spend an afternoon soaking in the art at the Louvre. You’ll also have time to enjoy Paris at a slower pace — sipping coffee at cafés, exploring hidden streets, and even dedicating a full day to Disneyland Paris if you wish to. This itinerary balances must-see highlights with authentic local experiences, so you leave the city of lights with both unforgettable memories and a real taste of Parisian life.
After reading this blog, you’ll know everything you need to know before embarking on your journey. Get ready to start planning your dream trip to Paris!
This post is all about how to spend 5 days in Paris.
How to spend 5 days in Paris
Things to Know Before You Go to Paris
Getting There
By Train: From Belgium, the Thalys is one of the easiest ways to reach Paris. The journey Brussels Central → Paris Nord (Gare du Nord) takes just 1h35.
By Plane: If you’re flying into Paris from another country, you’ll likely arrive at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airport.
Taxis are a flat rate: €55–€62 depending on the airport and side of the city.
Insider tip
Book transfers in advance during peak travel times to avoid long queues at the airport.
Where to Stay
We recommend Grand Hotel LEVEQUE on Rue Cler. We stayed here and it was perfect for this trip! Safe, lively neighborhood with cozy restaurants, supermarkets, and market stands.
Also, it’s just a 15-minute walk to the Eiffel Tower and close to the metro.
Where to Eat
Le Central – Paris (next to the hotel) offers delicious daily lunch specials!
For breakfast or a pastry stop, head to Du Pain et Des Idées for one of the best croissants in the city.
Paris has so much delicious food and that’s another reason we love Paris!
There is something to eat for all kinds of budgets. Whether it’s Michelin restaurants, charming cafes or delicious takeout.
Getting Around
Use the Paris metro for the fastest way to explore the city. A single ticket costs €2.50, or a day pass is €12 (zones 1–5). Machines use a scroll handle system — slightly tricky at first, but easy once you get used to it.
What to Wear in Paris
Day 1 – Arrival & Eiffel Tower area
Arrive in Paris at Gare du Nord and make your way to your hotel in the charming Rue Cler neighborhood, the perfect spot to settle in before exploring.
For your first afternoon, head straight to the Eiffel Tower area. Start at Trocadéro for the most iconic view of the tower, then wander across Pont d’Iéna and continue to L’avenue de Camoens, a quieter street that offers a beautiful photo opportunity away from the crowds.
Also make sure to return to the Eiffel Tower at night. Once the sun sets, 336 yellow-orange spotlights illuminate the tower, and every hour on the hour it sparkles for five magical minutes. The final “sparkle show” happens at 1 AM, lasting a full ten minutes — a truly unforgettable sight. Just remember to keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpockets and pushy street sellers are common in this area.
Day 2 – Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées
Start your day by taking the subway to Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station, just a short walk from the iconic Arc de Triomphe, which sits at the western end of the famous Champs-Élysées.
Don’t just admire the monument from the outside — go inside to explore the small museum detailing its fascinating history, and if you’re up for it, climb the nearly 300 stairs to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the avenue and the Eiffel Tower. Tickets cost €16, but entry is free for those under 18 or EU residents aged 18–25.
Afterward, stroll down the Champs-Élysées, soaking in the lively atmosphere of shops and cafés, and continue through Place de la Concorde, Jardin des Tuileries, and the Louvre square. Take a coffee break near the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel or the Roue de Paris to rest your feet and enjoy the surroundings.
In the evening, wind down with a leisurely walk along the Seine, crossing the Pont des Arts and Pont Neuf, and admire the city lights reflecting on the water — a wonderful Parisian experience.
Day 3 – Montmartre & Notre Dame
Start your day by taking the metro to Montmartre, often considered the prettiest area in all of Paris. Once a tiny village, it now forms the 18th district and has a rich artistic history, having inspired painters like Picasso and Van Gogh as well as poets and musicians.
Stroll through the charming streets and visit Sacré-Cœur, the lively Place du Tertre where artists display their work, and the picturesque cafés Le Consulat and La Maison Rose. Don’t miss a crêpe at Carette — a perfect treat while wandering the neighborhood.
In the afternoon, head down toward the Notre Dame area. Montmartre’s combination of history, art, and authentic Parisian charm makes it a must-visit district for any traveler.
Day 4 – Louvre & Free Exploration
Begin your day with a visit to the Louvre Museum, Paris’s most renowned cultural landmark. The museum is open daily except Tuesdays, with hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and extended hours until 9:00 PM on Wednesday and Friday.
The museum houses masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and offers access to both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions.
After exploring the Louvre, take time to wander through the surrounding areas. Stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, a beautifully landscaped garden offering a peaceful retreat. Nearby, you’ll find the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, a smaller replica of the famous Arc de Triomphe, and the Roue de Paris, a 60-meter-tall Ferris wheel located in the Jardin des Tuileries.
For the perfect Parisian experience, enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafés near the Louvre or along the Seine. As you walk along the river, cross the Pont des Arts, a pedestrian bridge known for its picturesque views, and continue to the Pont Neuf, the oldest stone bridge in Paris, completed in 1607.
On the riverbanks, you’ll encounter the bouquinistes, traditional second-hand booksellers offering a variety of books, art, and souvenirs.
In the evening, consider taking a Seine river cruise to see Paris illuminated. A 1-hour guided cruise typically costs around €15–17 for adults and €7–9 for children.
Day 5 – Disneyland Paris (Optional)
Embark on a magical day trip to Disneyland Paris by taking the RER A train from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallée–Chessy, the station adjacent to the park. The journey typically takes around 40 minutes.
Upon arrival, prepare for a full day of enchantment. The park opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons
It’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance, as prices vary based on demand and date, booking early can also help you avoid long queues at the entrance.
Inside the park, consider dining at the Cowboy Cookout Barbecue, known for its hearty meals and rustic Western ambiance. It’s a favorite among visitors for its quality food and unique setting.
After a day filled with attractions and entertainment, return to Paris in the evening. Trains back to the city run frequently, allowing for a relaxed departure.
While Disneyland Paris offers a delightful experience, be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak times. If you’re seeking a more relaxed visit, consider planning your trip during weekdays or off-peak seasons.
This post is all about how to spend 5 days in Paris
By following this itinerary, you’ll experience Paris in a way that flows naturally, starting with landmarks near your hotel, then exploring farther neighborhoods, and finishing with a fun optional day at Disneyland. The schedule balances sightseeing with relaxation, dedicating mornings and afternoons to iconic attractions while leaving evenings for unforgettable experiences like the Eiffel Tower sparkle, a stroll along the Seine, or a scenic river cruise. After reading this blog, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip — from knowing where to go and what to see, to understanding travel logistics and how to make the most of your time. This guide is designed to help you enjoy Paris confidently and fully, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure.
Now it is time to let the magic of Paris unfold before you!
If you liked this blog, we encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated for upcoming blogs!
