4-Day Paris and Île-de-France Exploration: Iconic Sights and Charming Day Trips

Day 1: Paris Highlights

Paris, France on May 29, 2025

12:00pm

Eiffel Tower Visit

Start your exploration with the iconic Eiffel Tower. Book tickets online to skip the line and enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the second floor or summit.
EUR25, 2h0m

2:30pm

Seine River Walk and Notre-Dame Cathedral

Take a leisurely walk along the Seine River towards the historic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. Admire the gothic architecture and nearby charming streets. Note that the interior access might be limited due to restoration.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

Visit the Arc de Triomphe and if desired climb to the top (additional ticket) for a great view down the famous Champs-Élysées avenue.
EUR13, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Le Petit Cler

Enjoy affordable and classic French dishes at Le Petit Cler, a cozy bistro near the Eiffel Tower.
Approx EUR20, 1h30m

Day 2: Provins & Moret-sur-Loing

Île-de-France, France on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Boulangerie Poilâne

Grab some of Paris's best pastries and bread to start your day affordably in a traditional café setting.
Approx EUR5, 0h30m

8:30am

Train to Provins

Take the Transilien Line P from Gare de l'Est to Provins (approx 1h40m). Purchase a day return ticket or Paris Visite pass covering zones 1-5 for convenience.
EUR15 round trip, 1h40m

10:15am

Explore Provins

Enjoy this UNESCO medieval town with its preserved ramparts, towers, and the famous Caesar's Tower. It's a step back in time with great photo opportunities.
EUR8, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at local bistro in Provins

Dine on regional dishes at a local bistro offering traditional French fare at reasonable prices.
Approx EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Train to Moret-sur-Loing

Return towards Paris and transfer in Fontainebleau-Avon to reach Moret-sur-Loing (approx 1h).
Included in day pass or single ticket EUR7-10, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Moret-sur-Loing

Walk through this picturesque medieval town nestled on the Loing River, famous for its timber-framed houses and Impressionist art history.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Train back to Paris

Return train to Paris Gare de Lyon to end your day trip.
Included in day pass or single ticket EUR7-10, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Café des Arts et Métiers

End your day with classic Parisian café dishes in a lively, affordable spot near the Marais area.
Approx EUR20, 1h0m

Day 3: Castles & Versailles

Île-de-France, France on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Du Pain et des Idées

Enjoy famed French pastries at a renowned bakery known for affordable delicious treats in a cafe atmosphere.
Approx EUR6, 0h30m

8:30am

Train to Château de Malmaison

Take RER Line A to Rueil-Malmaison station, then a short walk to visit this historic residence of Napoleon and Joséphine.
EUR8, 2h0m

11:00am

Train to Chantilly

Transfer via Paris to Chantilly by train (in total about 1h20m). Explore the Château de Chantilly famous for its art gallery and gardens.
EUR17, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch in Chantilly

Have a casual meal at a local café or brasserie offering regional specialties near Château grounds.
Approx EUR18, 1h0m

3:30pm

Train to Versailles Palace

Travel from Chantilly to Versailles by train through Paris (estimate 1h30m). Plan to arrive by late afternoon.
EUR20, 1h30m

5:00pm

Versailles Palace Visit

Explore the magnificent palace and gardens; late afternoon visits are less crowded but check closing times (usually until 6pm).
EUR20, 1h30m

7:00pm

Return to Paris

Take a train back to central Paris for the evening.
Included with return ticket, 1h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

Finish with a popular Parisian bistro known for steak-frites at reasonable prices in a busy atmosphere.
Approx EUR25, 1h0m

Day 4: Louvre & Pastries

Paris, France on June 1, 2025

7:30am

Pastry Buffet at Ô Chateau

Start the day with an all-you-can-eat French pastry buffet available on weekends and select weekdays; confirm booking in advance.
EUR20, 1h0m

9:00am

Louvre Museum Visit

Explore the world-famous art collections with emphasis on iconic pieces. Arrive early to avoid crowds; closed on Tuesdays.
EUR17, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Marly

An elegant café with views of the Louvre Courtyard offering light meals before departure.
Approx EUR25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Departure

End your itinerary by 2pm to continue your journey or travel plans.
Free, N/A