5-Day Paris Itinerary for First-Timers
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Marnie Constance
Long Beach, CA Travel Agent· 7 Years of Experience
MJ Elite Travel, an independent agent with Trips and Ships Luxury Travel, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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I just wanted to say thank you once again for all your help putting our reunion together. It was an incredible trip. So great to meet... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:France
PLACES VISITED:Giverny, Paris, Versailles
SUGGESTED DURATION:5 Days
Paris, the City of Light, is a place where timeless elegance meets vibrant culture. Whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering its magic, this itinerary offers an ideal mix of must-see landmarks, cultural immersion, and leisurely moments. Designed to inspire and delight, it’s perfect for travelers who seek unforgettable experiences without feeling rushed. While it caters to first-timers, return visitors will find plenty of hidden gems and fresh perspectives to savor.
As your dedicated travel advisor, my partnerships with local experts and in-country partners mean access to personalized, exclusive experiences. From private tours to hand-picked dining spots, I’ll craft your trip with care, ensuring it’s as unique as you are.
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DAY1
Paris
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Arrival & Orientation
Morning: Settle into your accommodations at the chic Fauchon (4-star) or the iconic Bristol (5-star), both offering luxury and comfort.
Afternoon: Private City Tour- Explore Paris with a 3-hour guided tour by car or on foot. Get your bearings as you visit landmarks like the Champs-Élysées, Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur, and the Latin Quarter. Gain fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture.
Evening: Seine Dinner Cruise- Enjoy your first evening with a gourmet dinner aboard a luxury boat. Glide past illuminated landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, for a magical introduction to Paris.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take a Seine dinner cruise for amazing views from the iconic river
A city tour on day one allows you to get your bearings for the week
DAY2
Paris
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Iconic Sights & Cultural Highlights
Morning: Louvre Museum- Focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory. Alternatively, choose the smaller yet stunning Musée d’Orsay for Impressionist masterpieces. Tuileries Gardens- Stroll through these elegant gardens, soaking in the tranquility and grandeur of Parisian leisure.
Afternoon: Arc de Triomphe- After lunch, continue your day with breathtaking views from the top of this iconic monument. Marvel at the city’s sprawling beauty and catch your first full glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.
Evening: Eiffel Tower Visit- Visit the tower in the evening for unparalleled views of Paris from its upper levels.
Dinner- Indulge in classic French cuisine at Le Procope, a historic restaurant brimming with charm.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take a private-guided tour of the Louvre with early entrance to beat the crowd to Mona Lisa
DAY3
Paris
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Versailles
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Giverny
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Day Trip to Versailles or Giverny
Morning & Early Afternoon: Visit Versailles to explore the lavish palace, Hall of Mirrors, and gardens. Add a golf cart or bike rental to explore further. Alternatively, head to Giverny to see Monet’s serene home and gardens (seasonal). For those up for a packed day, combine both experiences with a guided tour.
Late Afternoon: Return to Paris for some relaxation at your hotel or a nearby café.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at L'Ami Jean, renowned for its modern French cuisine.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Let us arrange early entry to Versailles to beat the crowds for Insta-worthy pics in Hall of Mirrors
See the inspiration for Monet's "Water Lillies" at his home in Giverney
DAY4
Paris
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Food, Markets & Parisian Charm
Morning: Start your day with a guided food tour in Le Marais, sampling croissants, cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts. Afterward, browse the Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market, for more local flavors. Grab some goodies for later!
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic at Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s most picturesque squares, with goodies from your food tour and market visit.
Evening: Cap the day with a lively dinner and show at the iconic Moulin Rouge, a quintessential Parisian experience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take advantage of the fresh produce, cheeses, and of course wine & baguettes
Dress up and take in a show at the historic Moulin Rouge caberet, home of the Can-Can
DAY5
Paris
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Hidden Gems & Farewell
Morning: visit Montparnasse Tower, an underrated spot for panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower and the city skyline.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Explore this chic neighborhood with its art galleries, boutiques, and charming cafés.
Afternoon: Champagne/Wine Tasting- Indulge in a private tasting session at a cellar or wine bar, perfect for a celebratory toast to your Parisian adventure.
Evening: Farewell Dinner at Le Meurice Alain Ducasse for an unforgettable Michelin-starred dining experience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
A visit is incomplete without a champagne and wine tasting
Enjoy a meal at one of the many Michelin Star restaurants in the city
FINAL THOUGHTS
Discover Paris in 5 days with a perfect mix of landmarks, culture, and cuisine. Ideal for first-timers or return visitors, with personalized touches for an unforgettable journey!