black and white striped columns of varying height in Paris in the Palais Royal
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A Spectacular Itinerary for Paris: 4 Days in the City of Light

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You are in for such a treat! Paris, also known as the city of light and the city of love, is one of the best cities in the world to visit with some of the most iconic landmarks, museums, and cuisine in the world. In this itinerary for Paris for 4 days, Iโ€™m sharing how to have the most memorable trip to Paris.

Iโ€™ll be covering a day-by-day itinerary for 4 days in Paris where youโ€™ll visit iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Catacombs while sampling the best food in the most beautiful cafรฉs, restaurants, and brasseries. Letโ€™s go!

Click here for an Itinerary Paris 4 days in the city of light and the city of love! This 4 day Paris itinerary includes day by day activities, restaurants, and Metro stops so you know exactly how to get to all of the best places in Paris!

Short on time? I know travel planning is arduous enough. Donโ€™t worry, I got you with this condensed version. Just tell me where to send it.

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Map for your 4 Day Paris Itinerary

Day 1 in Paris

The Louvre

Welcome to Paris. Weโ€™re going to start off strong this morning by visiting the Louvre. Thereโ€™s no way you havenโ€™t heard of this iconic art museum, but Iโ€™ll run you through a couple ways to tackle it.

What you may not know is that the Louvre is massive. It houses 35,000 pieces in 652,300 square feetโ€ฆor for my Americans over 11 football fields! They say that if you spent 30 seconds to look at each piece, it would take you 200 days to see everything. Obviously, thatโ€™s kind of overwhelming so it helps if you go into it with a game plan.

Louvre famous painting of crowning of queen and king

But first, the entrance. I read everywhere that the lines at the pyramid entrance can get ridiculously long and was recommended to try the Porte des Lions entrance on Quai Francois Mitterrand.

It did have a line, but it moved very quickly! A couple things to note here, you do need a ticket already to enter here (thereโ€™s no ticket window). You also want to make sure you do not have a large bag or helmet as there are no lockers at this entrance. Lastly, itโ€™s closed on Fridays.

If you need another entrance, you can enter at the Pyramid entrance or Carrousel entrance.

crowded Louvre hallway with arched ceiling with sky lights

Now onto our game plan for tackling the museum. Luckily, the Louvre has a couple recommended routes you can follow, including the highlights featured in Beyonce and Jay-Zโ€™s music video for APESH*Tโ€ฆbecause why not. Still, Iโ€™ll share what I did because I was really satisfied with my experience.

I started with their Masterpieces trail, which gives you exact directions to several recognizable pieces. However, I jumped straight to The Winged Victory of Samothrace located in the Denon wing, Level 1, room 703.

Winged Victory of Samothrace sculpture in the Louvre

I followed their recommended path through the Grand Galerie, which features Italian Renaissance pieces, and on to the Mona Lisa, which is so much smaller than you may think. There is a structured queue to get close and center to the Mona Lisa. However, you can get pretty close just walking on the sides behind the wall it sits on.

For me, the star of the Mona Lisa room was actually on the opposite wall: The Wedding Feast at Cana. Itโ€™s over 6 meters high (~20 feet) and 10 meters wide (~33 feet)!

crowds in the Louvre in Mona Lisa room
I visited in late morning and it was already getting very crowded at the Louvre. Yepp, thatโ€™s the Mona Lisa back there.

You can keep following the Masterpieces Trail to see other highlights. One room I loved and highly recommend was the Galerie dโ€™Apollon. It was one of the most gorgeous rooms just on its own with lavish painted ceiling and gold details. Plus, it holds the French crown jewels and when I was there an Yves St Laurent exhibit.

Ornate gold painted ceiling in the Louvre
Tell me this isnโ€™t Versailles level beautiful!

Metro stop: Palais Royal โ€“ Musรฉe du Louvre (lines 1 and 7)

Lunch at Cafรฉ Marly

Once youโ€™ve had your fill of the Louvre, however impossible it may be, make your way out of the museum and over to Cafรฉ Marly for lunch. Somewhat of an Insta-famous restaurant, Cafรฉ Marly has the best views of the Louvre pyramid since the restaurant sits along the open buildings surrounding it.

I highly highly recommend making reservations ahead of time because it can get quite crowded and walk-up seating is not guaranteed.

Cafe table with tea and bread and butter with Louvre pyramid in the background
Can you ask for a better Louvre pyramid view? I think not.

While the food isnโ€™t the most magnificent offering in Paris, itโ€™s still tasty and the views more than make up for the hefty price tag. I do recommend the Louvre tea, a specially blended blueberry black tea.

Metro stop: Palais Royal โ€“ Musรฉe du Louvre (lines 1 and 7)

Admire some of Parisโ€™s public spaces

Les Colonnes de Buren

After lunch, you wonโ€™t want to miss Les colonnes de Buren, a public art installation within walking distance from the Louvre. It features black and white striped columns of varying height making a great photo backdrop.

black and white striped columns of varying height in Paris in the Palais Royal
A great spot for photos, so bring your camera!

Jardin du Palais Royal

If you keep walking, youโ€™ll soon be in Jardin du Palais Royal, a lovely public garden with lots of seating, a beautiful fountain and flowers.

Lush trees covering a garden pathway with chairs and benches flanking the sides
These were seriously some of the most comfortable benches!

Metro stop: Palais Royal โ€“ Musรฉe du Louvre (lines 1 and 7)

Indulge in decadent hot chocolate at Angelina

This afternoon at 3pm, I also recommend visiting Angelina for their afternoon tea, just a few blocks away (or one Metro stop to Tuileries). If you have more time to kill until 3pm, explore Jardin des Tuileries, which borders the Louvre complex.

Angelina is one of the cutest cafรฉs in Paris, and theyโ€™re known for their insanely delicious hot chocolate.

Once itโ€™s afternoon teatime (or a few minutes before), start lining up at Angelina. They donโ€™t take reservations for afternoon tea, but by lining up a bit early, I only waited 30 minutes to get in.

This restaurant is quite famous for their hot chocolate and Mont-Blanc pastry. Luckily, you can try both in one shot with their afternoon tea special for 30โ‚ฌ, which comes with a tiered tray of sandwiches, pastries, and either tea or hot chocolateโ€ฆtrust me, you want the hot chocolate.

array of afternoon tea items including hot chocolate, two-tiered tea tray full of pastries and mini sandwiches in Paris at Angelina
No matter what meal youโ€™re having (even afternoon tea), tipping is always appreciated.

In the summer, you can also get chocolate ice cream and if you just want to try the hot chocolate and Mont-Blanc, you can go straight inside to the counter to the right and purchase both without waiting to sit at a table.

Metro stop: Tuileries (line 1)

Shopping with a view

To cap off your activities for the day, head to Galleries Lafayette Haussmann for sunset. This is a department store, but really feels like a mall. And you might be thinkingโ€ฆwhy on earth are you sending me to a mall??

The magic of Galleries Lafayette is its architecture and location. Once you step foot inside and start ascending to the higher floors, youโ€™ll quickly notice the most incredible stained-glass dome. Itโ€™s honestly an unreal sight that makes the trip worth it alone,

Stained glass dome ceiling inside Paris mall with lavish decor
Shopping is certainly an experience in Paris. This is a department store!

However, even more so, you can keep going up to the roof (level 8) where there is a large open space with viewing platforms with some of the best views of the city including the Opera and Eiffel Tower in the distance.

Even better, both experiences are free!

View of Eiffel Tower and Paris from Galleries Lafayette department store in Paris, France
This is the view from the rooftop! Yes, please!

Of course, youโ€™re welcome to shopโ€ฆit is a mall after all. If you were looking for French clothes, handbags, books, kitchen items, or shoes, this is the spot!

Be sure to bring your passport with you so you can stop by the tax refund center on the first floor (look for the Dรฉtaxe sign). After minimal paperwork, you set yourself up to receive a tax refund on the items you purchased if over 100โ‚ฌ.

department store mall in Paris with an unassuming building facade but a lavishly decorated interior
So unassuming on the outside, right?

Metro stop: Chaussรฉe dโ€™Antin โ€“ La Fayette (line 7 and 9)

An unexpected dinner

For dinner, I highly recommend Jah Jah by Le Tricycle. This afro-vegan restaurant might sound like an odd pick when youโ€™re surrounded by exquisite French cuisine, but this was one of the most memorable meals I had in France!

You canโ€™t make reservations, but the wait isnโ€™t too long, especially if youโ€™re willing to share a table (a great way to socialize if traveling solo in Paris).

vegan food in Paris where one of the restaurants is Jah Jah shown here with Caribbean vibes and Afro inspired food
Afro-vegan cuisine in Paris? Yes! And so good!!

I had the Bol Chaud (hot bowl) that came with a delicious curry and lots of veggie sides โ€“ all delicious and only 13โ‚ฌ! The family next to me ordered cauliflower wings and those also looked so good!

Metro stop: Strasbourg Saint-Denis (line 9) or Chรขteau dโ€™Eau (line 4)

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Day 2

Eiffel Tower

โ€ฆbut first, photos or it didnโ€™t happen

You didnโ€™t think weโ€™d be putting off the Eiffel Tower forever, did you? Todayโ€™s the day!

Start by grabbing breakfast from your hotel or a boulangerie near you.

Make your way to the Eiffel Tower in the morning to capture some photos before it gets too crowded.

I have a few favorite photo spots, or leave it to a local professional, and go on a photo session tour.

  • Avenue dรฉ Camรถens (closest Metro stop: Trocadรฉro on lines 6 and 9)
  • Jardins du Trocadรฉro (same Metro stop)
  • Rue de lโ€™Universitรฉ (closest Metro stop: Alma Marรงeau on line 9)
  • Jardin de la Tour Eiffel (surrounding the Eiffel Tower)
  • Carousel de la Tour Eiffel (closest Metro stop: Trocadรฉro on lines 6 and 9 or Bir-Hakeim on line 6)

A note on photo-taking, please remember that this is a popular area with moving carsโ€ฆthat can kill you. I canโ€™t tell you how many people I saw straddling the line in the middle of the road on Pont dโ€™Iรฉna (the bridge leading up to the Eiffel Tower). They were seriously one vehicle swerve away from death.

woman sitting on a concrete railing looking back at the Eiffel Tower on a foggy morning
Avenue de Camรถens is the perfect photo spot!
Instagram spot for Eiffel Tower photos
Youโ€™ll want to make your way to the end of Rue de lโ€™Universitรฉ for these views!

Once youโ€™ve taken all the photos, you may be tempted to go to the top of the tower. A couple things to take into account here. First, you can take the stairs or the elevator. Youโ€™re absolutely going to want tickets ahead of time because the lines can get long and the availability can sell out.

If youโ€™ve always wanted to go to the top, do it! However, if youโ€™re looking for the best views of Paris, youโ€™re probably picturing the Eiffel Tower in that view. If youโ€™re standing on itโ€ฆitโ€™s not in your view so turns out Paris kind of just looks like another European city.

View of Paris streets from the Tour Eiffel on a cloudy day
Of course, we visited the Eiffel Tower on a very cloudy day.

The better view of Paris: Arc de Triomphe

If you want the best views of Paris including the Eiffel Tower, a better option is to go to the top of Arc de Triomphe. Itโ€™s half the price of the Eiffel Tower, and the view is spectacular.

You will need to climb the 274 stairs, but if you have a disability or are pregnant, you can use the elevator.

Metro stop: Klรฉber (line 6) or Charles de Gaulle โ€“ ร‰toile (line 1)

Food tour in Le Marais

For the second activity of your day youโ€™ll be doing a food tour. I am a BIG fan of food tours, especially in foodie cities because you really get a great feel for what dishes the city is known for.

Depending on your timing, there are plenty of options for late morning or late afternoon and evenings.

Three รฉclairs in different flavors (chocolate, raspberry, and passionfruit) over a glass case of many รฉclairs in Paris
We had รฉclairs from Yann Couvreur and they were phenomenal!

I recommend a food tour of Le Marais, aka the 4th arrondissement. This district is removed enough from the tourist area that the food is better with a quaint Jewish quarter, charming restaurants, and one of the oldest markets in the city, Marche des Enfants Rouge.

Food tours typically take 2-3 hours and will have you sampling some of the best bites in Le Marais.

Fallafel on a fork being held up by a hand from the left with L'as du fallafel restaurant in the background
Jewish quarter in Paris means falafel and latkes!

On mine, I tried croissants, รฉclairs, choux, cheese, falafel, macrons, and wine! Needless to say, you wonโ€™t walk away hungry.

I recommend bringing a water bottle because not every tour comes with beverages.

Cheese counter in Paris fromagerie
It wouldnโ€™t be a Parisian food tour without cheese!

Metro stop: many, but an easy one to get to is Saint-Paul on line 1

If you still have time today, you can take a Seine River cruise or bring a picnic to the Seine for a light and inexpensive dinner.

Rest up, because tomorrow is a big day with lots of walking.

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Day 3

Self-guided walking tour of Montmartre

Today youโ€™ll be tackling some of the most classic Paris sights, starting with Montmartre.

Located in the 18th arrondissement, the area of Montmartre sits atop the largest hill in Paris, so naturally some of the best views of the city are seen from up here!

The big attraction in Montmartre is Basilica of Sacrรฉ-Cล“ur, which boasts the highest point in the city!

Sacre Cล“ur Bascilica in Montmartre, Paris
The architecture on the outside is stunning!

To get to Montmartre, take Metro line 2 to Anvers then walk north on Rue de Steinkerque, where after a couple steep blocks, youโ€™ll run into Square Louise Michel, the garden with paths that lead to Sacrรฉ-Cล“ur.

While you can walk up the hill through the garden, thereโ€™s an easier way. To the left of the garden is a funicular that is operated by the Metro. So, yes, you can use your Metro pass to take the short funicular ride up the hill.

It can get very crowded, especially in the summer, so be patient and bring water to stay hydrated!

Carousel outside Sacre Cล“ur Basilica
Head to the left around the Carousel to get to the funicular!

Once you reach the top, you can head inside Sacrรฉ-Cล“ur for free. There is a security check and it is an operational place of worship so be respectful, quiet, and follow the posted rules as far photography and videography.

If you want to climb the stairs into the dome, the entrance is just to the left of the main entrance doors, once youโ€™ve passed the security check. It costs 6โ‚ฌ each and there are stairs.

I opted out (1) because I thought the views from the steps out front were good enough for me and (2) because it was a 90+ degree (F) day and I couldnโ€™t fathom climbing anymore stairs with no reprieve of ACโ€ฆyes, I am very accustomed to my American luxuries.

After youโ€™ve made the rounds in Sacrรฉ-Cล“ur, make your way to the left of the building (in the west direction) toward Rue Norvins, to explore the town a bit. Itโ€™s exactly what youโ€™re probably thinking of when you think of quintessential Paris charm.

Art prints in Montmartre Paris
If you want to purchase art prints, be sure to look for art on stands instead.

You can easily take a self-guided walking tour of Montmartre. Once on Rue Norvins, continue straight then turn right on Rue des Saules. Here, youโ€™ll run into La Maison Rose, a very popular Instagram spot. Itโ€™s a pink building on the corner with ivy covered walls.

Please, please, please be respectful in this area. There are cars and buses that run on these small cobblestone streets so donโ€™t be jumping out in the middle of the road for your photoโ€ฆthis is why Parisians may come off as rude to all touristsโ€ฆbecause theyโ€™re doing stupid, disrespectful sh*t. I know thatโ€™s probably not you, but please keep it in mind. Okay rant over.

Pink building on a corner of a cobblestone street with ivy covering half the building
Isnโ€™t this building so cute! Look both ways before snapping a picture from the middle of the street!

At La Maison Rose, take a left on Rue de lโ€™Abreuvoir until you reach the bust of Dalida, who was a comedian and singer from this area. Itโ€™s said if you touch her breasts, youโ€™ll have good luck!

Bronze bust of Dalida chanteuse in Paris
Can you tell what part of the bust is good luck to touch?

Follow the road around to the left (now technically Rue Girardon) until you reach Le Passe-Muraille. This is a sculpture of a man who looks like heโ€™s coming out of the wall! Heโ€™s a fun photo spot.

Sculpture of man in wall in Montmartre
Try to pull him out of the wall for a fun photo op!

Keep walking on Rue Girardon to Le Moulin Blute-Fin, a historic windmill painted by Van Gogh, atop the restaurant Le Moulin de la Galette, the site of Renoirโ€™s painting Bal du moulin de la Galette.

Historic windmill in Montmartre
Montmartre has a couple historic windmills, so see how many can spot!

Head down to Rue dโ€™Orchampt, an almost continuation of Rue Girardon, that will lead you to a small park on the right and a former home of Picasso, called Place ร‰mile Goudeau.

Continue down the hill, down Rue Ravignan and take a left on Rue des Abbesses. Youโ€™ll reach a town center with a carousel, Metro station entrance, and nearby on the left, a park that is home to Le Mur des Je tโ€™aime (or the โ€œI Love Youโ€ mural).

Blue "I Love You" mural in Montmartre that says I love you in many languages
Can you find Englishโ€ฆbecause I stared at it for 10 minutes and couldnโ€™t find it!

Thatโ€™s Montmartre! Cute, right?!

A classic French lunch

I bet all that walking has you hungry for lunch, so keep heading down the hill on Rue Houdon or Rue Germain Pilon until you reach Boulevard de Clichy. Navigate to Bouillon Pigalle, which is to the right of Rue Houdon and to the left of Rue Germain Pilon. This is your lunch spot!

Known for their iconic French food and low price-point, youโ€™ll definitely find something youโ€™ll love! I had the French onion soup and steak frites (steak and fries), which was all delicious. I canโ€™t comment on how stellar the French onion soup was because it was my first time ever trying it, but I liked it!

The ambience was great too! Close quartered tables, open windows, and mirrors on the walls making it feel like a large restaurant. I recommend making reservations to skip the queue.

French restaurant exterior in Paris with a line queue out front called Bouillon Pigale
Spot that line in the back for Bouillon Pigalle. With a reservation, I walked right in!

Moulin Rouge

Once youโ€™ve had your fill, head west on Bd de Clichy either by walking or take the Metro from Pigalle to Blanche on line 2, which brings you to the Moulin Rouge.

I donโ€™t care if youโ€™re a fan of the movie, French history, or none of the above, seeing this windmill in action is so neat! If itโ€™s been a dream of yours to see a show, I recommend securing tickets ahead of time. Sunday brunch tickets are cheapest!

Moulin Rouge lit up during sunset with blue sky and small pink clouds
So glad I returned at night to see the Moulin Rouge lit up!

*If you want to see an evening Moulin Rouge show, I suggest flip-flopping this day, where you have a relaxing morning, touring Montmartre in the afternoon, grabbing dinner at Bouillon Pigalle, then seeing your show.

**Highly recommend returning at night to see it lit up!

A relaxing afternoon and evening

This afternoon, take a much needed break or explore the city a bit on your own. Part of the magic of Paris is discovering all the little things on your own. Wandering a bit, indulging in the cafรฉ culture, or relaxing in a park.

Even if you go back to your hotel and relax for a bit, take the afternoon for yourself.

If youโ€™re looking for something more to do before the evening activities, I recommend touring the Opera (a good Versailles alternative), taking a cooking class, or checking out a museum that interests youโ€ฆbecause there are so many! For example, the Picasso Museum, the Sewer Museum, or Musรฉe de lโ€™Orangerie that has impressionist pieces.

For dinner, try the TikTok-famous Italian restaurant, Pink Mama, or the super beautiful Le Train Bleu.

Paris cafe with red walls and wicker chairs, tables, and stools
Cafe culture is huge in Paris so try it out sooner rather than later so you can partake more often!

See the city of lights with a night tour

After dinner, I recommend a night tour. Paris is the city of lights afterall, so naturally seeing it lit up at night is an experience you canโ€™t miss!

I did mine with Airbnb Experiences, where the local tour guide met me at Trocadรฉro then drove me and a mom and son to the sights. We visited the Eiffel Tower at 12am promptly to see the light show that happens every night on the hour. He took us to a secluded spot in the gardens so despite the summer crowds, we had the show to ourselves.

Eiffel Tower carousel lit up next to Eiffel Tower show
Those twinkling white lights on the Eiffel Tower are the light show.

We also visited the Louvre pyramid and Place Vendรดme. At the end, he dropped each group off at their hotels, so you didnโ€™t have to take the Metro so late at night, which was perfect as a solo traveler!

I truly canโ€™t recommend it enough!

Louvre pyramid lit up at night with no crowds
And the best part of visiting at night isโ€ฆno crowds!

Day 4

Musรฉe dโ€™Orsay

Youโ€™ve made it to your final day in Paris (Iโ€™m crying with you, donโ€™t worry)! Letโ€™s make it a memorable one!

Start your morning at one of the best museums in Paris (imo), Musรฉe dโ€™Orsay, which not only houses the most beautiful impressionist art, but occupies a gorgeous old train station with stunning architecture thatโ€™s a star in its own right.

Musee d'Orsay in Paris
One of the best museums is the dโ€™Orsay across from the Louvre!

First, as with all major attractions, I recommend you purchase your tickets ahead of time. This will guarantee you entry and allow you to skip to a shorter queue.

*Tip: If you have a Cultivist Membership (on your own or via a Capital One Venture X card), you can get tickets for free! Just request via their customer service email.

Degas ballerina sculpture in a museum of Impressionist art
Degas, Renoir, Manet, Monet, and so many more incredible artistsโ€™ works await at the Musรฉe dโ€™Orsay!

The Musรฉe dโ€™Orsay is 6 stories (although in France, the ground floor is level 0 so the top is actually level 5). Youโ€™ll enter on Level 0 and can make your way around the museum in a circle, going up to the top as you go.

If you arrive in the late morning, I recommend starting from the top and working your way down instead, since most visitors will go bottom to top naturally. If you walk in and head straight to back left of the museum, there is an escalator that will take you straight up to Level 5.

Here youโ€™ll find the back of the clock, a popular photo spot. On the opposite walls are some of my personal favorites by Toulouse Lautrec.

Solo trip to Paris at the Musee d'Orsay
You have to snap a photo behind the clock face!

The main impressionist gallery is on this level with works by Cรฉzanne, Degas, Monet, Manet, and Renoir. Youโ€™ll probably find some paintings you recognize. Consult the map for the most popular works in the museum (and their locations).

Level 3 and 4 only actually have small pavilion galleries; they donโ€™t have entire floors to see, so you actually can see the whole museum in a day (unlike the Louvre).

sculpture in a large museum with gold clock on the far wall
The Sculpture terrace is full of incredible pieces of art.

Level 2 is full of sculptures, which are massive and intricate. Be sure to pop into the galleries that lie deeper into the museum than the sculpture terraces, which are centered out in the open.

Finally, donโ€™t miss the rotating exhibits on the ground floor in the back right corner. When I visited there was an incredible model display of the Paris Opรฉra and other landmarks in the city.

Metro stop: Solfรฉrino (line 12) or Tuileries (line 1)

Lunch on your own

While there is a cafรฉ in Musรฉe dโ€™Orsay, there are plenty of other restaurants and cafes nearby for better food and fewer people.

Les Deux Magots is a historic brasserie that opened in 1885. If youโ€™re looking to indulge in the slow cafรฉ culture, this is a great spot for that. Plus, itโ€™s on the way to our next activity.

Another option is to head to the next activity then choose a restaurant nearby that you find. This can be so fun in Paris, because the food really is incredible at most places!

The Paris Catacombs

Our next stop is the Catacombs! If youโ€™re not into the macabre or spooky destinations, I urge you to still consider visiting the Catacombs. Not only is it an immensely interesting visit, but itโ€™s a unique part of Paris that tells an important part of its history.

As with everything, I recommend purchasing tickets in advance so you can join the shorter queue.

Stacked bones and skulls in the ossuary of Paris Catacombs
The bones in the ossuary are stacked neatly to maximize space!

Each ticket comes with an audio tour that will point out important landmarks and share history and tidbits as you go through.

The tour takes about an hour and a half to complete.

You do need to be able to use stairs as there are about 80 down and 80 back up on a winding staircase (yes, you might get a little dizzy).

The tour starts with the construction of the catacombs and you follow the tunnels to the ossuary (where the bones are). There is a great little lobby space before entering the ossuary with detailed signs about the origin of the bones, why they were buried here, and lots of interesting information to get you going.

I thought it was especially interesting that modern scientists removed some bones for study and replaced them exactly as they had found them with the approval of the French government! Huzzah for science!

Exhibit on bones in Paris Catacombs
The Catacombs really does a great job of teaching visitors as much as possible.

In the ossuary, I personally didnโ€™t find it creepy or morbid, but fascinating instead. There really is a lot to learn and observe.

Although, I will say, I donโ€™t recommend watching As Above, So Below before your visit, because the sectioned off pitch black tunnels will have you second-guessing the creepy factor.

Paris Catacombs tour highlights include this Barrel of Bones
This is the barrel of bones.

Metro stop: Denfert-Rochereau (line 4)

Crรชpes with a view

Before heading to our final activity, itโ€™s crรชpe time! Iโ€™m sharing my favorite crรชperie that was actually the first place I ever tried crรชpes! And, turns out, itโ€™s one of the best in Paris vetted by locals and other travel bloggersโ€ฆwhat are the odds!

Head to the Metro to line 4 and get off at Saint-Michel Notre-Dame. Walk the short ways to Crรชperie des Arts on Rue Saint-Andrรฉ des Arts. There is a small window where you can order a crรชpe for 5โ‚ฌ or less!

underrated crepes in Paris
My favorite crรชpe spot in Paris is Crรชperie des Arts!

I always go with a classic Nutella or Nutella and strawberry but the lemon and sugar always looks great too!

I recommend walking over to Notre Dame to admire the cathedral while enjoying your warm, fresh crรชpe. Once youโ€™ve finished, you can enter Notre Dame Cathedral for free. However, access to the crypt is restricted since the fire.

Bring your crepe to Notre Dame bridge to eat with a view
Crรชpes with a view! What more can you ask for?

Saint-Chapelle

Finally, saving the best for last, walk across the island (รŽle de la Citรฉ) to Saint-Chapelle. This is by far my favorite religious building in Paris. Itโ€™s just magical in a way that the others could never compare to for me.

The draw of Saint-Chapelle is its ornate 360-degree stained glass windows. Built in the 13th century in the Gothic style, the windows follow the stories of the Bible in chronological order around the room. Even if you arenโ€™t religious, you canโ€™t help but be in awe at these windows.

Saint Chappelle Catchedral in Paris

I probably sound like a parrot by now, but definitely get tickets ahead of time. The queue can get quite long, especially in the summer. I didnโ€™t have tickets but purchased them online while waiting in the queue for the ticket window. Then, I popped out of line and walked straight in!

So worth it!

Metro stop: Citรฉ (line 4)

One last dinner

For dinner, I recommend another picnic on the Seine by the Eiffel Tower to take it in one last time and catch the Eiffel Tower light show.

Alternatively, I quite enjoyed Le Musset on Rue Saint-Honorรฉ. I sat outside under lavish blue flowers decorating the building. This type of dรฉcor has become quite popular for Paris cafรฉs as Instagram culture has taken such a hold.

Still, the food was great and so was the people-watching!

Restaurant in Paris with blue flowers on the exterior
If youโ€™re looking for an Insta-worthy cafe, this is a good pick!

One more day? Here are some ideas

If you have an extra day, I recommend carving out the time to visit Versailles or Disneyland Paris. While I havenโ€™t yet made it to Versailles, I can tell you that both attractions are beyond Metro zones 1-3 so youโ€™ll need a special Metro ticket to get there.

Disneyland Paris tomorrowland ride
Not the best photo, but hey, I was there in 2006!`

Another day trip from Paris I recommend is Mont Saint Michel. It is 3 hours from Paris so it would certainly be a long day, but itโ€™s a stunning sight that is on many peopleโ€™s bucket lists, mine included. Unfortunately, public transportation can be a bit tricky to Mont Saint Michel, so a guided tour that includes transport is best!

Mont Saint Michel with reflection on bay on partly cloudy day
Mont Saint Michel is a stunning place to visit in France.

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Where to Stay in Paris

Iโ€™ve only been to Paris twice, so Iโ€™m not here to pretend that I have some deep insider scoop. What I can say is that Iโ€™ve stayed in two hotels, both in Le Marais (4th arrondissement) and both were wonderful and I feel very good recommending them to you!

First, on my most recent trip, I stayed at Temple de Jeanne in a single room. The room itself was perfect with a comfortable bed, exemplary AC, beautiful city views, and great complimentary breakfast each morning. The location was superb with the Saint-Paul Metro station just steps from the hotel and within 1 block, there was a pharmacy, boulangerie, and grocery market.

single room with gold and maroon colors and fleur-de-lis on the wall and carpet
In off seasons, single rooms like this are even cheaper in Paris!


Plus, the hotel had round the clock security, which made it feel even more safe than it already was!

The employees were super nice, helped with my bags, and even helped me to send a postcard. Truly canโ€™t recommend it enough!

The other place Iโ€™ve stayed, albeit as a kid, was Hotel Residence des Arts. I remember the breakfast was good! The location is also great right next to the Saint-Michel Notre Dame Metro station and Crรชperie des Arts (both wonderful and dangerousโ€ฆfor your wallet and stomach).

This hotel is great if youโ€™re into nightlife because right next door is an Irish pub. They can be quite rowdy, so itโ€™s not the quietest stay. However, if that sounds like your jam or you donโ€™t mind blocking out some sound, definitely consider this hotel.

Paris hotels near nightlife
The Irish pub in question, but what a cute area, right?

How to get to Paris from CDG Airport

This was my biggest anxiety-inducer on my most recent solo trip to Paris. Luckily, itโ€™s really much easier than it might seem.

Youโ€™ll see big signs in the airport to RER B. Thatโ€™s the train youโ€™ll need to take into Paris. Youโ€™ll want to buy tickets on the kiosks before going to the platform and it will cost ~11โ‚ฌ. The kiosks are easy to spot, so try not to stress (I know, easier said than done).

RER B metro ticket in Paris
Metro tickets look like this! This is the one for RER B from the airport.

Head to the platform and get on either train. This was a big point of confusion for me. I was so worried I was getting on the wrong one because neither is labeled (whyyyy). But theyโ€™re unlabeled because theyโ€™re both the same RER B train. I asked a contrรดleur, I promise!

And, just FYI. Your RER B ticket includes transfers if you donโ€™t exit the Metro station so you can get off at Chรขtelet (a major hub) and transfer with the same ticket to a new line.

What to bring to Paris

Aside from your usual essentials, I recommend a couple things:

  • PacSafe anti-pickpocketing bag โ€“ Iโ€™m obsessed with mine! It features locking zippers and pockets so you donโ€™t lose any valuables.
  • SafetyWing travel insurance โ€“ Never travel without insurance. I love SafetyWing because theyโ€™re simple and cover both health and travel insurance!
  • Comfortable shoes โ€“ Please learn from meโ€ฆI brought (old) comfortable shoes that were not built to last and my time in Paris destroyed themโ€ฆand my feet. I threw them out in Paris and bought Adidas Superstars to replace them, which are the perfect comfy, European style shoe (and the Stan Smiths).
  • Google Maps and Translate downloaded offline โ€“ You can download both of these offline to be able to use abroad and in underground Metro stations when you lose service. Truly essential.
PacSafe convertible bag that is brown in color on a low pillar in Paris
Notice the locking mechanisms on the zippers!

Related read >> Top travel apps to keep in your arsenal

How to get around Paris

Youโ€™ve probably figured out that the Metro is your best friend in Paris. There are also buses and trains if you need it!

And honestly, walking is also super manageable in Paris! You might find that the streets are drawing you in and you canโ€™t help but follow. There are also rideshares in Paris including Uber.

sign showing two different directions of paris subway train
Hereโ€™s an example where the two directions are Ivry and Villejuif where the next train coming is on the Villejuif direction (indicated by the lit up triangle and less time until arrival)

Is 4 days in Paris enough time?

Paris is one of those places that take years to fully experience. However, if youโ€™re short on time or a traveler with a 9-5 (or in college), 4 days can be just right!

I visited in 4 days and Iโ€™m quite proud of how much I was able to see, so I do really think itโ€™s possible to cross a lot off in just 4 days.

woman smiling at the camera in a pink dress with Eiffel Tower behind her during the day on an overcast day

Related read >> Itinerary for only 1 day in Paris

Whereโ€™s the breakfast, lady?

You astute reader you! If youโ€™re new to Periodic Adventures, let me just say, breakfast is my absolute favorite meal of the day, so I havenโ€™t skipped over it without intention.

Rather, Iโ€™m banking on your hotel providing free daily breakfast or your resourcefulness to scout a boulangerie near you and cover breakfast on your own.

Paris is full of cafes and restaurants, but breakfast isnโ€™t typically something lavish. Breads, jams, Nutella, and butter will do. And, you certainly donโ€™t need me reiterating that daily.

Paris France boulangerie glass case with croissants in it
Boulangeries are your best friend for breakfast and snacks in Paris
exterior of medieval fortress that you can walk along in France
So many pathways to explore in Mont Saint Michel!

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With this 4 day itinerary for Paris, you'll find all the best things to do in Paris so you have a great Paris trip! Daily itinerary Paris includes the Eiffel Tower, Musรฉe d'Orsay, Montmartre, the Catacombs, and more!
Click here for an Itinerary Paris 4 days in the city of light and the city of love! This 4 day Paris itinerary includes day by day activities, restaurants, and Metro stops so you know exactly how to get to all of the best places in Paris!
Here's how to spend 4 days in Paris, France with the best Paris activities including the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Montmartre, Saint-Chapelle, Catacombs, a food tour of Le Marais and so much more! This travel guide also has insight on where to stay in Paris, how to get around Paris and use the Metro, and what to pack for Paris.
This 4 day itinerary for Paris will delight with travel activities including the Louvre, Catacombs, a Seine River picnic, and so much more!

My Travel Essentials

  • Travel Insuranceย โ€“ Going on an international trip? Donโ€™t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing.
  • Travel Card โ€“ If youโ€™re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
  • Get Your Guideย โ€“ Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
  • Booking.comย โ€“ This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com, the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
  • Anti-pickpocket bag โ€“ Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
  • Give the Gift of Travelย โ€“ This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
  • Staycation Ideaย โ€“ Check out Resort Pass, which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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4 Comments

  1. I love Paris! $ days seems like suc a short time, but you added some great things to do. I mean, that hot chocolate is reason enough to visit in my book.

    1. It definitely is a short time, but you can do a lot! I’d go back for the hot cocoa alone tbh!

  2. I spent a couple of days in Paris and would love to visit the city again purely for the vibe.

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