Thatch Editor’s List: Paris Itinerary for First-Timers (2024)

Planning your first trip to Paris? Our comprehensive guide offers flexible itineraries for 3, 5, and 7 days, tailored to help you explore the City of Light's iconic landmarks, art treasures, and charming neighborhoods. From the Eiffel Tower to hidden gems and day trips, make the most of your Parisian adventure with our expert tips, local insights, and curated travel suggestions. Perfect for new travelers, this guide ensures you experience the magic of Paris with ease and confidence. Explore now and start your unforgettable journey!

Liv Coning

Marketing Lead

Thatch Editor’s List: Paris Itinerary for First-Timers (2024)

Sep 03 2024

Paris Itinerary for First-Timers: Your Ultimate Guide to the City of Light

Bonjour, fellow travelers! If you're planning your first trip to Paris, you're in for a treat. The City of Light is a treasure trove of art, history, cuisine, and culture.

To help you make the most of your Parisian adventure, we've curated three flexible itineraries for 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day stays. Each itinerary builds upon the previous one, allowing you to choose the perfect plan for your trip duration. Let's explore the City of Light!

Helpful Tips for First-Time Visitors to Paris

Before you embark on your Parisian adventure, here are some essential tips to enhance your experience:

1. What's the best way to get around Paris?

Paris offers several excellent transportation options:

Metro: The Paris Metro is efficient, extensive, and often the fastest way to get around. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for unlimited travel.
Walking: Paris is a walkable city, and strolling its charming streets is a great way to soak in the atmosphere. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Vélib': The city's bike-sharing system is perfect for exploring like a local. It's eco-friendly and gives you the flexibility to cover more ground than walking.
Uber: Ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Paris, offering a convenient option for direct travel, especially during late hours or when carrying luggage.

2. Do I need to speak French in Paris?

While many Parisians in tourist areas speak some English, learning a few basic French phrases can greatly enhance your experience. Locals appreciate the effort, even if it's just "Bonjour" (Hello) and "Merci" (Thank you). It's a sign of respect and can lead to warmer interactions.

3. Is tipping expected in Paris restaurants?

Unlike in some countries, tipping is not mandatory in Paris as service is included in the bill. However, if you receive good service, it's appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%).

4. Is Paris safe for tourists?

While Paris is generally safe, like any large city, it has areas where tourists should exercise extra caution:

Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles: These busy transport hubs can attract pickpockets, especially during rush hours. Stay alert and keep your belongings secure.
Certain parts of the 18th, 19th, and 20th arrondissements: Some neighborhoods in these districts, particularly at night, may be less safe for tourists. Stick to well-lit, busy streets if you're unfamiliar with the area.
Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes after dark: While these parks are lovely during the day, they're best avoided at night.

Remember, most areas in Paris are safe for tourists. Use common sense, stay aware of your surroundings, and don't hesitate to ask your hotel staff or local authorities for advice if you're unsure about a particular area.

5. What are some important etiquette tips for visiting Paris?

Parisians appreciate good manners. Here are some key etiquette tips:

Always greet shopkeepers with "Bonjour" when entering and "Au revoir" when leaving. It's considered polite and will often result in better service.
Keep your voice down in public spaces, especially on public transport. Parisians generally speak more softly in public than visitors from some other cultures.
Learn basic phrases like "s'il vous plaît" (please) and "excusez-moi" (excuse me). Using these can make a big difference in how you're perceived.

6. Is Paris good for kids?

Absolutely! Paris offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities:

Luxembourg Gardens: Features a large playground, puppet shows, and pony rides.
Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie: An interactive science museum with a special area for children.
Disneyland Paris: Located just outside the city, it's perfect for a day trip.
Jardin d'Acclimatation: An amusement park with rides, a small farm, and beautiful gardens.

By following these tips and embracing the local culture, you'll set yourself up for an unforgettable Parisian adventure. Now that we've covered the essentials, let's dive into our curated itineraries to help you make the most of your time in the City of Light.

3-Day Paris Itinerary

For first-time visitors with limited time, this 3-day itinerary covers the must-see attractions and experiences. Let's explore Paris, day by day!

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks

Morning: Eiffel Tower

Start your day early at the iconic Eiffel Tower. Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues and consider taking the stairs to the second floor for a unique perspective. Don't forget to snap photos from the Trocadéro plaza for that perfect Eiffel Tower shot.

Afternoon: Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

Head to the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris and the dozen avenues radiating from it. Afterward, stroll down the Champs-Élysées, enjoying its high-end shops, cafes, and people-watching opportunities.

Evening: Seine River Cruise

End your day with a relaxing Seine River cruise. As the sun sets, you'll see Paris's monuments illuminated, offering a magical perspective of the City of Light from the water.

Day 2: Art and History

Morning: Louvre Museum

Dedicate your morning to exploring the world's largest art museum. Start with the Mona Lisa, but don't miss other masterpieces like the Venus de Milo and Winged Victory. Consider a guided tour to navigate the vast collections efficiently.

Afternoon: Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior) and Latin Quarter

Admire the gothic architecture of Notre-Dame from the exterior (due to ongoing renovations). Then, wander through the charming streets of the Latin Quarter, home to the Sorbonne University and filled with bookshops, cafes, and historic sites.

Evening: Dinner in Le Marais

Explore the trendy Le Marais district, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant Jewish quarter. Enjoy dinner at a traditional bistro, followed by a stroll through the district's charming streets and hidden courtyards.

Day 3: Parisian Charm

Morning: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

Start your day in the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre. Visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for sweeping views of Paris, then explore the charming streets, watching local artists at work in Place du Tertre.

Afternoon: Luxembourg Gardens

Relax in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, a favorite spot for locals. Enjoy a picnic, watch a game of pétanque, or simply admire the flowers and statues scattered throughout the park.

Evening: Farewell dinner at a classic bistro

Conclude your trip with a memorable meal at a classic Parisian bistro. Savor traditional French dishes like coq au vin or beef bourguignon, paired with a glass of French wine to toast your Parisian adventure.

5-Day Paris Itinerary (add to 3-day plan)

Day 4: Versailles and More Art

Morning and early afternoon: Palace of Versailles

Late afternoon: Musée d'Orsay

Evening: Explore Montmartre nightlife

Day 5: Hidden Gems

Morning: Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie

Afternoon: Père Lachaise Cemetery

Evening: Dinner at the top of Montparnasse Tower

7-Day Paris Itinerary (add to 5-day plan)

Day 6: Day Trip

Full day: Choose between Giverny (Monet's Gardens), Disneyland Paris, or Champagne region

Day 7: Parisian Life

Morning: Local market visit and picnic preparation

Afternoon: Picnic at Champ de Mars or Canal Saint-Martin

Evening: Cabaret show at Moulin Rouge

Remember, this is just a starting point. Paris is a city that rewards exploration and serendipity. Don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path and discover your own hidden gems!

Discover More with Thatch

Want to take your Paris adventure to the next level? Explore Thatch's modern, mobile-friendly travel guides for an even more immersive experience. Our curated guides offer insider tips, off-the-beaten-path suggestions, and real-time updates to ensure you make the most of your Parisian journey.

Paris Itineraries

Explore our handcrafted Paris itineraries, designed to help you make the most of your visit to the City of Light. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo exploration, we've got you covered. Check out these curated guides:

Andre Ayala

PARIS - A complete 3 day itinerary | FREE

Welcome to your essential Paris adventure! I've got you covered with a three-day plan to experience the best of the city. I've been living here for a year now, and explored Paris five times before, so this guide is packed with all my favorite spots – from famous sights like the Eiffel Tower to hidden gems you won't find in every travel book. I've carefully planned this itinerary to help you explore Paris smoothly. Each activity is strategically placed so you can make the most of your time. This itinerary sets the standard for my other guides. By checking it out, you'll get a clear picture of what to expect from my other recommendations. So, if you love what you see here, you can trust that my other guides will deliver the same quality and detail. Happy exploring! Subscribe to my Thatch profile for updates and save this itinerary for your next trip.

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