Light breakfast and coffee at a good airport cafe (e.g., Croma or Café Madras) before check-in; gates open 3 hours pre-flight. Allows for immigration and lounge access if you have it.
Board an overnight direct or one-stop flight. Typical nonstop is ~9–10h; arrive next-day morning local time. Book refundable/changeable fare if plans may shift.
Arrive CDG, clear passport control and pick up an RER/Taxi to central Paris (approx 35–50 min by taxi or 45 min by RER B + metro). Check-in or drop luggage at hotel.
Stroll around Ile de la Cité to see Notre-Dame exterior, Pont Neuf, and riverside views. Note: interior access may be limited due to restoration works — check current status.
Relaxing 1-hour cruise to orient yourself to Paris landmarks (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame) — usually runs 10:30–22:30 depending on season; reserve ahead.
World-class collection including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo; the museum typically opens 9:00–18:00 (closed Tuesdays) — buy timed tickets in advance to skip lines.
Small museum and charming historic streets offering insight into the neighborhood's bohemian past; check opening hours (usually mid-morning to evening).
Iconic Parisian cabaret with dinner or late show options — shows typically start 9:00pm; book weeks in advance. Alternatively enjoy a jazz club in Pigalle or Saint-Germain.
State apartments and Hall of Mirrors; palace hours commonly 9:00–17:30 (check closing day — usually closed Monday). Allow 3–4 hours for palace and immediate gardens.
Famous water-lily pond and flowering gardens — gardens are open seasonally (commonly spring–autumn) with typical hours 9:30–18:00 in season; check exact opening dates for late Oct/early Nov.
Sainte-Chapelle’s stained glass is a highlight; typical opening 9:00–19:00 but check seasonal hours. Conciergerie nearby offers medieval history and guided tours.
Hands-on French cooking or patisserie class (3–4 hours) to learn techniques and recipes you can recreate at home; many run mornings into early afternoon.
Stroll the park and get photos of the Eiffel Tower; the tower is open late (often until 11:45pm) if you want to visit the summit later (reserve tickets).