Explore the Best of Paris on a Shoestring Budget: A 5-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Montmartre & Pigalle
    Estimated Time from last location: 45 min (2 miles)

    Start your walking tour of Paris in Montmartre, the city’s most charming neighborhood. Admire the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, stroll through the historic Place du Tertre, and explore the famous Moulin Rouge in Pigalle. Satisfy your hunger pangs at Le Grenier à Pain bakery for some freshly baked croissants and pastries.

  2. Day 2: Canal Saint-Martin & Belleville
    Estimated Time from last location: 30 min (1.5 miles)

    Experience the bohemian side of Paris in the 10th and the 19th arrondissements. Start with a walk through the tree-lined Canal Saint-Martin, shop for unique souvenirs at the nearby vintage stores and boutique shops, and end your day in the vibrant neighborhood of Belleville for some authentic North African cuisine at Chez Omar.

  3. Day 3: Latin Quarter & Le Marais
    Estimated Time from last location: 45 min (2 miles)

    Spend a day exploring the diverse neighborhoods of Latin Quarter and Le Marais. Begin your walk at the iconic Pantheon in the Latin Quarter, wander through the historic campus of Sorbonne, and end with a photography session at the striking Notre-Dame Cathedral. The picturesque Le Marais district is filled with trendy bars and cafes. Head to L’As du Falafel for a mouthwatering falafel sandwich.

  4. Day 4: Jardin des Plantes & Île Saint-Louis
    Estimated Time from last location: 30 min (1 mile)

    Embrace the beauty of Paris with a leisurely day at the Jardin des Plantes botanical garden. Explore the Grande Galerie de l'Evolution, the greenhouses, and the zoo. Then, cross the Seine to Île Saint-Louis for a dose of Parisian charm. Admire the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral, stroll through the narrow streets lined with boutique shops and ice cream parlors, and grab a delicious crepe from the charming Au P'tit Grec.

  5. Day 5: Versailles
    Estimated Time from last location: 1 hour (20 miles) by train

    On your final day in Paris, take a day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles. Once the home of French royalty, this palace boasts stunning architecture, lavish furnishings, and world-famous gardens. Walkthrough the grandiose Hall of Mirrors, marvel at the architecture of the Royal Chapel and the Royal Opera, and take a stroll in the beautiful Gardens of Versailles. Don’t forget to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the lawn.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Sacré-Cœur Basilica (1-2 hours, free)
  • Moulin Rouge (30 min, free)
  • Le Grenier à Pain bakery (20 min, €5-€7)
  • Canal Saint-Martin (2-3 hours, free)
  • Belleville (2 hours, €15-€20)
  • Pantheon (1-2 hours, €9)
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral (30-60 min, free)
  • L’As du Falafel (20 min, €7)
  • Jardin des Plantes (3-4 hours, €8)
  • Île Saint-Louis (2 hours, free)
  • Au P'tit Grec (20 min, €5-€7)
  • Palace of Versailles (4-5 hours, €18)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €67-€83

Useful Tips:

If you have less time, consider combining Day 4 and Day 5 into one day trip. If you have more time, add a day for exploring the trendy Le Canal district and another day for visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower.

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