Classic Parisian café for coffee, croissant and people-watching in Saint‑Germain-des-Prés; a great way to acclimate and plan the morning. Café typically opens around 7:30–8:00; check seasonal hours.
Stroll the formal Luxembourg Gardens and see Saint‑Sulpice church exterior; peaceful and close to many cafés. Gardens are open daylight hours (dawn–dusk).
Impressionist and post‑Impressionist masterpieces in a converted railway station — perfect after a relaxed morning. Musée d'Orsay is open Tue–Sun (closed Mon), usually 9:30–18:00 (confirm special hours).
Walk along the Seine to the Île de la Cité to view Notre‑Dame façade and visit Sainte‑Chapelle (stained glass). Sainte‑Chapelle hours often ~9:00–17:00 in winter — confirm before visiting.
Historic Parisian restaurant offering classic French cuisine and atmospheric dining in the Latin Quarter; reservations recommended. Open evenings (typically from ~18:00).
Stroll down the avenue to the Arc; climb the Arc de Triomphe terrace for a great view of the avenue and Eiffel Tower. Arc typically open ~10:00–23:00 (seasonal hours).
Browse shops on the Champs‑Élysées or find a seasonal Christmas market (many run through December) for gifts and treats; markets open afternoons and evenings.
Book tickets for sunset/early evening to see Paris lit up; access times vary — typical hours ~9:30–23:45 but confirm and reserve ahead, especially for summit access.
World-class collection (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, etc.); plan a focused route and pre-book timed entry. Louvre hours typically 9:00–18:00; note it is closed Tuesdays (today is Thu and open).
Choice of famous falafel for a quick, iconic bite or a lively Provençal bistro (Chez Janou) for a full dinner; both popular—arrive early or expect queues.
Direct RER C trains run to Versailles in roughly 40–50 minutes; buy a round-trip Île‑de‑France ticket. Check train schedules for exact departure times.
Guided or self-guided tour of the palace’s highlights; Palace is typically open 9:00–17:30 (closed Mondays), so Friday visit is ideal. Book timed tickets in advance.
Walk the formal gardens and, time permitting, visit the Grand Trianon and Marie‑Antoinette’s estate; gardens are extensive and a highlight in any weather.
Choose a lively neighborhood for your final night in Paris: Marais for punchy bistros or Latin Quarter for classic brasseries. Reserve if you prefer a specific restaurant.
Explore the UNESCO Grand Place with its guildhalls and the Brussels Town Hall — always lively and a great first stop. Many buildings are illuminated in the evening in December.
Sample Belgian chocolates at historic shops in the Galeries and Sablon area — many open late afternoon/evening. Consider a guided tasting if you prefer structure (book ahead).
Iconic 102m structure with futuristic spheres offering exhibits and skyline views; typical opening ~10:00–18:00 in winter so check exact seasonal hours and arrive just at opening if possible.
Visit the Basilica (venerated relic) and, if open and of interest, the Groeninge Museum for Flemish primitives (check museum hours; some museums have limited winter hours).
Interactive visitor centre at the European Parliament offering free exhibits about EU institutions; typically open 9:00–18:00 but check booking and guided-tour availability.
Return to Grand Place to enjoy the evening illumination and buy souvenirs; winter lights and any Christmas market stalls are usually active in the early evening.
Take the train from Brussels Central or Midi to Brussels Airport (direct trains ~20–25 minutes) or proceed to your next destination. Allow plenty of time for security in winter travel season.