Start with the famous chocolat chaud and a classic pâtisserie at Angelina to fuel a museum morning; the salon is popular, so allow time for a short queue. Typical opening hours are around 8:00am–6:00pm, but check current hours and reserve if you can.
Stroll the island to see Notre-Dame from outside and soak in the historic heart of Paris; interior access has been limited since the 2019 fire so check the latest reopening status and any guided-visit options. The outdoor visit is free and always worthwhile.
Admire the stunning 13th‑century stained-glass windows inside this jewel-box chapel; typical opening is about 9:30am–5:00pm (hours may vary), so an early visit avoids crowds. Book tickets in advance when possible.
A classic Parisian bistro on Île Saint‑Louis offering seasonal French dishes and terraces for people-watching; great spot for a relaxed midday meal and very convenient to the morning sights. Confirm current opening times as smaller bistros may close between service times.
Spend the afternoon seeing highlights (Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Egyptian galleries) — the Louvre is huge so pick 2–3 sections to focus on. The museum typically opens 9:00am–6:00pm and is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly and prebook tickets to skip lines.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries gardens, enjoying sculptures and views toward the Seine and Place de la Concorde; gardens are open during daylight hours and are free to enter. This is a relaxed break before evening plans.
Board a one-hour evening cruise to see Paris' riverside landmarks (Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Notre-Dame) from the water; cruises run daily into the evening but departure times vary so book a slot around sunset for the best light.
Enjoy the classic steak‑frites experience with their famous fixed-menu sauce and generous portions; the restaurant is popular and operates mainly in evening service, so expect a queue if you don't have a reservation. Typical price reflects a three-course set.
One of Paris' iconic cafés for coffee and croissants amid literary history; service is steady from morning, but tables fill up so arrive early or expect a short wait. Hours typically start early (around 7:30am) and run all day.
Explore Impressionist and Post‑Impressionist masterpieces in this converted railway station; usual opening hours are 9:30am–6:00pm and the museum is commonly closed on Mondays, so confirm the day you'll visit. Prioritize rooms with Monet, Van Gogh and Degas.
Historic Saint‑Germain café serving classic French bistro dishes—an atmospheric place to continue the artistic theme of the day. It's centrally located and open daily for lunch service, but check hours for any seasonal changes.
Take the Metro north to the Montmartre neighborhood — a short transit that places you at the hill that inspired countless artists. Allow time for getting between lines and for the climb or funicular to the basilica.
Visit the basilica for panoramic city views (open daily; dome or crypt access may have separate fees) and wander the charming streets, artist squares and small museums in the area. The basilica itself is free to enter, while optional viewpoints may charge a small fee.
See the lively artist square and peek into the Musée de Montmartre to learn about the neighborhood’s bohemian past; museum hours vary but many museums are open late into the afternoon, so check current times. This is a great spot for portraits and souvenirs.
Head to the top of the Arc for sweeping views along the Champs‑Élysées — the monument is typically open until late evening (check exact closing time), making it a prime sunset spot. Tickets are required for rooftop access.
Dine at this historic, lively Parisian brasserie offering traditional dishes at good value; Chartier welcomes walk-ins but is busy at peak times, so go early or expect to share a table. It's open evenings and provides an authentic bistro atmosphere.
Grab an early pastry or pain au chocolat at this beloved artisan bakery before heading to Versailles; popular and opens early, but lines form so arrive promptly. Confirm current opening times on their site.
Take the RER C train to Versailles (about 45–60 minutes depending on connection) to arrive early and maximize your time at the palace and gardens. Buy or validate an RER ticket that covers zone 4 before boarding.
Tour the opulent Grand Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors to experience France's royal history; the palace typically opens in the morning (around 9:00am) but may be closed on certain weekdays, so verify the day of your visit. Prebook a timed entry to avoid long queues.
Enjoy a relaxed riverside lunch at one of the estate’s restaurants—La Petite Venise serves Italian‑influenced dishes and is convenient between palace and gardens. Restaurant hours are seasonal, so check availability and consider a reservation.
Explore the smaller Grand and Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet, plus extensive formal gardens; garden access varies (some musical fountain displays or concerts are scheduled on specific days), so look up the day’s program if you want fountain shows. Plan 1.5–2 hours here.
Take the RER back to central Paris and head to Le Marais for an evening of wandering and boutique shopping; travel time depends on connections but allow about an hour. Use this time to rest and refresh before dinner.
Enjoy the elegant square and narrow cobblestone streets lined with independent shops, galleries and cafés; this neighborhood is lively in the evening and great for window-shopping and photos. Most shops close late afternoon, but many galleries and some boutiques stay open into the evening.
Finish your trip with convivial Provençal dishes and a classic Parisian bistro atmosphere at Chez Janou; popular for dinner service so reserve if possible. It's a lively way to sample southern-French flavors in the city centre.