Your First Trip to Paris: A Day-by-Day Guide to 5 Perfect Days of Eating and Exploring
Planning your first trip to Paris can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This day-by-day itinerary pairs the city’s best restaurants with must-see landmarks so you can spend less time scrolling and more time savoring every moment.
Day 1: Notre-Dame and the Seine
Start your Paris adventure at Kozy, a wildly popular brunch spot near Notre-Dame known for pancakes piled high with toppings and “Sexy Benny” eggs. Expect a line, so arrive with patience and an appetite.
After breakfast, walk to Sainte-Chapelle, a breathtaking stained glass chapel often overlooked in favor of Notre-Dame but arguably more spectacular. Book tickets in advance.
For lunch, walk over to Maslow, a vegetarian-forward spot right on the Seine serving sharing plates. Look out for the fried cauliflower wings and the wine list.
End the evening at Chouchou, a French-Moroccan fusion restaurant in a warm, romantic setting. The duck confit and salmon tagine are must-tries, and the candlelit atmosphere pairs perfectly with excellent cocktails.
Day 2: The Louvre and Tuileries
Fuel up at Baguett’s Café, located right next to the Louvre and known for their eggs benedict on a croissant — a dish worth the trip on its own.
After exploring the museum, stroll through Tuileries Garden, a free walk dotted with sculptures and fountains that stretches between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. It’s the perfect way to decompress after a museum visit.
Lunch at Bouillon République gives you a classic Parisian bouillon experience serving traditional French cuisine at incredible value. The duck and bone marrow are standouts. Book ahead.
Later that evening, treat yourself to La Plume Rive Droite, a stunning rooftop restaurant with panoramic views in the heart of Paris offering indoor and outdoor seating, signature cocktails and caviar.
Day 3: Le Marais
Begin the morning at Le Ju’, a Le Marais staple known for its colorful umbrella-draped exterior. It opens early and serves until 2 a.m., so no rush.
Stay in the neighborhood for lunch at Neonato, located in the heart of Marais. This highly rated spot serves modern Italian fare — be sure to get the tiramisu.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s free. Sit in one of the iconic green chairs by the fountain and watch the city go by.
For dinner, splurge on the tasting menu at Bistrot Instinct, a Michelin-recommended Le Marais gem with a rotating seasonal menu.
Day 4: Montmartre
Kick off with Bon Bouquet Café in the 9th arrondissement. The stunning pastel interior design and beautiful presentation make the avocado toast, pancakes and coffee feel extra special.
Head to Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Climb up the seemingly endless stairs through Montmartre for the views and the gorgeous white basilica. Go early to avoid crowds, then explore the area.
Lunch is a short walk at Le Poulbot, a cozy Montmartre bistro. Try the lamb and the French onion soup.
Dinner is at Sacrée Fleur Montmartre, a classic French steakhouse near Sacré-Coeur. It’s only open for dinner, so book by email in advance.
Day 5: Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower
Your final morning starts at Azur Café, near the Champs-Élysées. It’s known for Turkish eggs and exceptional mocha, with friendly staff and solid value.
Spend the late afternoon at the Eiffel Tower, grabbing a crepe from a nearby vendor. You can go up in the tower for the views, but even just sitting on the grass below at night to watch it sparkle on the hour is magical. Book tickets online well ahead.
Close your five days at Restaurant Guy Savoy, a 2-Michelin-star splurge on the Seine. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory and the perfect finale to your first trip to Paris.
This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI.
