5-Day Paris Family Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

Morning: Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport and take the RER B to your family‑friendly hotel near Saint‑Michel – Notre‑Dame metro station. After check‑in, enjoy a quick bite at a nearby bakery (try a fresh croissant and hot chocolate).

Afternoon: Stroll through the historic Le Marais district, following a simple walking map that highlights the Place des Vosges and the Musée Carnavalet (exterior). Stop for a light lunch at Café Lomi, known for its kid‑friendly sandwiches.

Evening: Gather at the Seine River quays for a scenic evening cruise (Bateaux‑Mouches). The cruise offers live commentary and a view of illuminated landmarks—perfect for a relaxed family night.

Day 2: Museums & Gardens

Morning: Head to the Louvre Museum early (use Metro Line 1 to Palais‑Royal – Musée du Louvre). Follow the “Family Trail” map to see the Mona Lisa, the Egyptian antiquities, and the interactive children’s guide.

Afternoon: Walk across the Seine to the Musée d'Orsay (RER C to Musée d'Orsay). Enjoy the Impressionist masterpieces and let the kids explore the “Play Zone” near the clocks. Lunch at the museum’s café offers affordable set menus.

Evening: Relax in the Tuileries Garden, where a playground and carousel keep the child entertained. End the day with dinner at Le Petit Cler, a cozy bistro serving classic French dishes at family‑friendly prices.

Day 3: Historic Heart & Montmartre

Morning: Visit Notre‑Dame Cathedral and the nearby Île de la Cité (Metro Line 4 to Cité). Use the provided map to explore the exterior and the charming square of Place Dauphine.

Afternoon: Discover the stunning stained‑glass of Sainte‑Chapelle and the historic Conciergerie. A short walk brings you to the bustling Latin Quarter for a casual lunch at Chez Gladines.

Evening: Take the Metro (Line 2) to Montmartre. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit the Sacré‑Cœur Basilica, and enjoy a family‑style dinner at Le Refuge des Fondus, famous for its cheese fondue.

Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles

Morning: Board the RER C from Saint‑Michel – Notre‑Dame to Versailles Château‑Rive Gauche (about 45 min). Follow the station signs to the palace entrance and start the audio‑guided tour of the Hall of Mirrors.

Afternoon: Explore the expansive Versailles Gardens, renting a rowboat on the Grand Canal (kid‑friendly). Enjoy a picnic lunch with supplies from a local market stall.

Evening: Return to Paris and unwind with a light dinner near your hotel—try the family‑friendly Pizza Pino for a quick, tasty meal.

Day 5: Local Flavors & Parks

Morning: Wander the vibrant Marché d’Aligre (Metro Line 5 to Place d'Aligre). Sample fresh fruit, pastries, and cheese while following a market map that points out kid‑friendly snack stalls.

Afternoon: Head to Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont (Metro Line 5 to Botzaris). The park’s waterfalls, bridges, and playground provide ample adventure for the child, and there are several picnic spots.

Evening: Conclude the trip with a farewell dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, offering a simple menu of steak and fries that pleases both adults and children. Use the hotel’s map for the quickest metro route home.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Louvre Museum – 3 hrs – $34
• Musée d'Orsay – 2 hrs – $30
• Seine Evening Cruise – 1 hr – $65 (2 adults $25 each, child $15)
• Notre‑Dame & Île de la Cité – 2 hrs – Free (exterior only)
• Sainte‑Chapelle & Conciergerie – 2 hrs – $20
• Versailles Palace & Gardens – 5 hrs – $80 (adults $20 each, child free, garden boat $10)
• Paris Public Transport Pass (5 days) – 5 days – $80
• Accommodation (mid‑range hotel, 4 nights) – 4 nights – $600
• Food (average $80/day) – 5 days – $400
• Miscellaneous (snacks, souvenirs) – – $50
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,479

Tips

To extend the stay, add a half‑day visit to the Musée de l'Orangerie or a day at Disneyland Paris, adjusting the budget accordingly. For a shorter trip, combine Day 2 and Day 3 by skipping the Montmartre evening and using that time for a relaxed riverbank picnic. Always download offline maps of Metro lines, and consider purchasing a “Paris Museum Pass” if you plan to add more attractions—this can reduce entry fees and waiting times.