A Week in Paris: Exploring the City of Lights

1. Wednesday July 26: The Louvre
   15 minutes (2.3 miles) from the city center

   Start your trip by visiting the world-renowned Louvre Museum. Marvel at its vast collection of art, including the iconic Mona Lisa. Spend the morning exploring the museum's masterpieces, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby cafe. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Seine River and visit the charming Île de la Cité. In the evening, indulge in some French cuisine at a local bistro.

   • Visit The Louvre: €15, 3-4 hours
2. Thursday July 27: Eiffel Tower
   20 minutes (3.2 miles) from The Louvre

   Start your day by taking in the breathtaking views of Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy a picnic in the nearby Champ de Mars park and soak in the beauty of the city. In the afternoon, explore the charming neighborhood of Montmartre and visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. In the evening, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Seine River.

   • Visit Eiffel Tower: €25, 2-3 hours
   • Explore Montmartre: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Seine River Cruise: €15, 1 hour
3. Friday July 28: Palace of Versailles
   1 hour (12.5 miles) from Eiffel Tower

   Embark on a day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles. Explore the stunning Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the vast gardens, and learn about the history of French royalty. Enjoy a picnic in the gardens or have lunch at one of the charming cafes in the area. In the evening, return to Paris and indulge in some shopping along the bustling Champs-Élysées.

   • Visit Palace of Versailles: €20, 4-5 hours
   • Shopping at Champs-Élysées: Varies, 2-3 hours
4. Saturday July 29: Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle
   15 minutes (2.1 miles) from Palace of Versailles

   Start your day by visiting the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Admire its stunning Gothic architecture and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Explore the charming Latin Quarter and have lunch at a traditional French brasserie. In the afternoon, visit the breathtaking Sainte-Chapelle and marvel at its stunning stained glass windows. In the evening, catch a show at the world-famous Moulin Rouge.

   • Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral: Free, 2-3 hours
   • Explore Latin Quarter: Varies, 2-3 hours
   • Visit Sainte-Chapelle: €10, 1-2 hours
   • Watch Moulin Rouge Show: €100+, 2-3 hours
5. Sunday July 30: Musée d'Orsay and Seine River Cruise
   20 minutes (2.5 miles) from Notre-Dame Cathedral

   Start your day by exploring the impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art at the Musée d'Orsay. Afterward, stroll along the picturesque streets of the Marais district and have lunch at a trendy cafe. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Seine River and admire the iconic landmarks of Paris. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife in the bustling Le Marais area.

   • Visit Musée d'Orsay: €14, 2-3 hours
   • Explore Le Marais: Varies, 2-3 hours
   • Seine River Cruise: €15, 1 hour

Recommendations

If you have more time to explore, consider visiting the charming neighborhood of Montparnasse, home to many art studios, cafes, and theaters. Day trips to the stunning Palace of Fontainebleau or the charming town of Giverny, where Monet's famous gardens are located, are also highly recommended.

To make the most of your money, consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass, which grants you access to numerous museums and attractions. Additionally, using the Paris Metro system is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.