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Hey, heading to Paris? Awesome! Wondering how to spend 5 days in Paris?
I’ve got a simple 5-day plan for you that’s fun and easy on the wallet.
Paris is packed with cool stuff—food, sights, vibes—so let’s make the most of it.
Here’s how I’d spend 5 days there!
Day 1: Eiffel Tower & Champs-Élysées
Start big with the Eiffel Tower. It’s iconic, and you’ve got to see it up close. Tickets are around $20 if you climb the stairs—cheaper than the elevator. The view’s worth it, trust me.
After, walk down the Champs-Élysées. It’s a fancy street with shops and cafes. Grab a croissant or just people-watch—free and fun. End at the Arc de Triomphe—climb it for $15 or snap pics from below.
This day’s all about the classics. You’ll feel that Paris magic right away. Wear comfy shoes—lots of walking!
Why Stay?
- Great spot: Eiffel’s a must-see kickoff.
- Fun vibes: Champs-Élysées has energy.
- Good deal: Cheap pics or a climb.
Day 2: Louvre & Notre-Dame
Hit the Louvre in the morning. It’s huge, with the Mona Lisa and tons of art. Tickets are $20, but go early—lines get long. Spend a couple hours, don’t rush.
Walk over to Notre-Dame next. It’s free to look outside, and the towers are $10 if you want to climb. The stained glass and vibes are unreal, even after the fire.
You’re in Paris’ old heart here. Grab a cheap sandwich nearby—ham and cheese is a classic. It’s a chill day with big sights.
Why Stay?
- Art fix: Louvre’s a bucket-list stop.
- History hit: Notre-Dame’s got soul.
- Easy pace: Big wins, no stress.
Day 3: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Head to Montmartre—it’s artsy and hilly. Wander the streets, see cute cafes, and spot street artists. No cost, just soak it in.
Sacré-Cœur is up top—free to enter, $8 to climb the dome. The city view beats the Eiffel’s, in my opinion. Sit on the steps and relax.
This area feels like old Paris. Grab a crepe for a few bucks nearby. It’s laid-back and full of charm.
Why Stay?
- Free stroll: Montmartre’s charm costs nothing.
- Killer view: Sacré-Cœur’s a steal.
- Chill day: Perfect after busy stuff.
Day 4: Versailles & Seine River
Take a day trip to Versailles. The train’s $10 round-trip, and entry’s $20. The palace is massive—gold everywhere—and the gardens are free to roam. Pack a picnic to save cash.
Back in Paris, walk along the Seine at night. See the bridges and lights—no cost, pure magic. Maybe buy a $5 ice cream to make it special.
Versailles is fancy, the river’s romantic. You get both in one day. It’s a nice mix!
Why Stay?
- Fancy fix: Versailles wows for cheap.
- River vibes: Seine’s free and dreamy.
- Big day: Two hits, one plan.
Day 5: Latin Quarter & Relax
Explore the Latin Quarter—it’s lively and old. Check out Shakespeare and Company, a cool bookstore—free to browse. Streets here are full of cheap eats like falafel for $7.
Hit Luxembourg Gardens next. It’s a big park—free to sit, walk, or nap. Perfect for chilling after busy days.
This day’s easygoing. You’ve earned a breather. Paris feels cozy here—enjoy it!
Why Stay?
- Cool streets: Latin Quarter’s got life.
- Free park: Luxembourg is pure calm.
- Low-key win: Rest without spending.
When’s the Best Time to Go?
Spring and fall are great—April, May, September, October. Weather’s nice, not too hot or cold. Crowds aren’t wild then. Perfect for walking all day.
Summer’s busy and hot—June to August. Prices go up fast. Lines stretch forever at big spots. It’s tough if you hate heat or waiting.
Winter’s quiet and cheap—December to February. Streets feel empty, which can be nice. It’s cold and gray though. Bring a big coat if you pick this!
Pick what works for you. Spring’s my favorite—flowers everywhere. Fall’s cool too—leaves turn gold. Paris shines whenever, just plan smart!
Day Trips Worth Taking
Versailles is awesome, but Giverny’s another gem. It’s Monet’s gardens—$20 to get in, $10 train ride. Flowers and ponds are all over. Super pretty if you’re into that.
Fontainebleau’s cool too—$15 entry, $12 train. It’s a huge castle with a forest around it. Less crowded than Versailles. Great for a quiet day out.
Both are easy from Paris. Trains leave from big stations like Gare de Lyon. You’re back by dinner if you start early. Pick one—or both if you’re fast!
Giverny’s peaceful, Fontainebleau’s grand. They’re cheaper than staying in Paris all day. Gardens or castles—can’t go wrong. Pack snacks to keep it light!
What’s There to Do?
Paris has tons—Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame are the big ones. They’re cool and not too pricey. You’ve got to see them once. Each day’s got a hit like that.
Walking the Seine or parks like Luxembourg is free. It’s just as fun as the paid stuff. Bridges glow at night—pure Paris vibes. Bring a camera for those!
Food’s a blast too—croissants, crepes, cheap sandwiches. Markets like Rue Mouffetard have fresh bites for less. Grab a baguette and cheese—picnic time. You won’t get bored here!
Every corner’s got something. Little cafes, old streets, random statues. Wander and you’ll find it. Paris keeps you busy without trying!
Where to Eat on a Budget
Paris food can be cheap if you know where to look. Boulangeries like Poilâne have $2 croissants—grab one warm. They’re everywhere—just peek inside. Best breakfast ever!
Falafel in the Latin Quarter is $7 and fills you up. Lines move fast—worth it. Markets like Rue Cler have cheese and bread. Perfect for a picnic by the Seine.
Skip fancy cafes near the Eiffel Tower. They charge way too much. Local spots a street over are half the price. You’ll taste real Paris, not tourist traps!
Street food’s your friend here. Crepes are $5 and yummy. Look for busy stalls—locals know what’s good. Eat cheap and save for sights!
Fun for Families
Kids love the Eiffel Tower—climbing’s like an adventure. It’s a workout, but they’ll brag about it. The view’s a big wow for them. Start there—they’ll be hooked!
Versailles gardens are huge for running around. Bring a ball or frisbee—free fun. Luxembourg Gardens has toy boats for a few bucks. Kids sail them and grin all day.
Montmartre’s great too—street artists draw cool stuff. Crepes keep it sweet and cheap. Paris feels exciting but not hard with a family. Everyone gets something!
Stick to easy spots. Parks and towers beat museums for little ones. You’ll all have a blast. Paris works if you keep it simple!
Hidden Gems to Check Out
Canal Saint-Martin is a chill spot—walk it for free. Boats float by, bridges look cute. It’s less touristy than the Seine. Locals love it here.
Rue Crémieux is a street with bright houses—great for pics. It’s quiet and tucked away. No crowds, just color. Feels like a secret find!
The Petit Palais has free art—skip the Louvre lines once. It’s pretty inside and out. Not many know it’s there. You’ll feel smart finding it!
These spots mix up the big stuff. They’re cheap or free—perfect for your budget. Wander off the main path. Paris gets better when you do!
How to Get Around Paris
The métro pass is $25 for 5 days—covers all your trips. Grab it at any station—super easy. Trains come fast, you’re never stuck. Best deal for getting around!
Walking’s free and fun too—stick to big streets. You’ll see random cool things—cafes, shops. It’s how Paris feels alive. Wear good shoes though!
Bikes like Vélib’ are $5 a day if you want to ride. Stations are everywhere—grab and go. Watch traffic—it’s busy out there. Fun way to zip around!
The métro pass is $25 for 5 days—covers all your trips. Grab it at any station—super easy. Trains come fast, you’re never stuck. Best deal for getting around!
Watch your bag at stops like Gare du Nord. Crowds draw pickpockets—keep it close. It’s simple once you figure it out. Paris moves easy with these!
Handy Travel Tips
Book Louvre and Versailles tickets online—saves time in line. You’ll skip the wait and stress. Do it a week ahead. Lines are brutal otherwise!
Wear good shoes—cobblestones are everywhere. Your feet will thank you. Get a métro pass—$25 for 5 days is cheaper than single tickets. It’s a no-brainer!
Eat where locals do—cheaper and tastier. Tourist traps near Notre-Dame suck cash. Ask around for little spots. You’ll eat better for less!
Don’t try to see it all—pick what you love. Paris is huge—chill out a bit. Take it easy and enjoy. That’s the real trick here!
Packing Tips for Paris
Pack comfy shoes—cobblestones kill your feet. Sneakers or boots work best. You’re walking tons every day. Don’t skimp on this one!
Bring a light jacket—weather flips fast. Mornings can be cool, afternoons warm. A small umbrella’s smart—rain pops up quick. You’ll stay dry and happy!
A reusable water bottle saves cash—cafes charge a lot. Fill it at your hostel. Dress simple—jeans and a shirt fit in. No need for fancy stuff!
Toss in a small bag for your stuff. Big backpacks scream tourist—easy target. Keep it light and close. You’re set for 5 days like this!
Quick FAQs
Is it expensive? Not if you stick to hostels and street food—$50-70 a day works.
Safe for solo travelers? Yep, just watch your bag in crowds.
Worth 5 days? Totally—mixes busy and chill perfectly.
How to Spend 5 Days in Paris
This 5-day Paris plan hits the best spots without draining your cash.
You’ll see the classics, eat well, and still have downtime.
Loved this? Check my budget trips in Asia for more ideas.
What’s your favorite part? Tell me!