When we planned our trip to Paris, I wanted more than a checklist of landmarks. I wanted the long walks, the local cafés, the hidden streets — and a little bit of adventure too. The Perfect 5-Day Paris Itinerary is built around that idea: a mix of iconic sights, incredible food, hidden corners, and memorable day trips.
This guide is based on real spots we loved (plus a few we didn’t have time for), so you can build your own unforgettable trip — without overpaying or overplanning.
Where to Stay in Paris (By Vibe)
Before we dive into the itinerary, let’s talk about where to stay — because your neighborhood shapes your entire trip vibe.
If you want easy access to the Seine, Louvre, and nightlife: stay near Pont-Neuf, the Latin Quarter, or the 1st arrondissement.
- Maison Albar Hotels Le Pont-Neuf – We stayed here and loved the easy walkability to key sights, cafés, and jazz clubs.
If you want a more romantic, authentic neighborhood feel: head to Montmartre, near Rue des Martyrs or Lamarck–Caulaincourt.
- Hotel Particulier Montmartre or Maison Souquet – charming options nestled into the hillside streets.
- Or cozy up in a stylish Airbnb with rooftop views!
If you want boutique chic with cool markets and cafés: stay in Le Marais.
- Hôtel du Petit Moulin or Le Pavillon de la Reine — gorgeous boutique stays close to galleries, shops, and the lively Marché des Enfants Rouges.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Check out The Perfect 5-Day Paris Itinerary – our day-by-day itinerary. I also include a list of my favorite cafes, restaurants, and bars below!
Day 1: Seine Walk and Jazz Night
- Walk the Left Bank or explore the Latin Quarter.
- End the night with live music at Le Caveau de la Huchette, one of Paris’ oldest jazz clubs.
- Pro Tip: Grab drinks early at Georges Café across the street — the same owner — and get early seating at the club without the long wait!
Day 2: Coffee, Louvre, and Eiffel Picnic
- Start your morning with caffeine magic at The Coffee.
- Visit the Louvre Museum (be sure to book tickets in advance).
- Stroll through the Tuileries Garden afterward — perfect for some relaxed sightseeing.
- Grab provisions at Rue Cler (cheeses, baguettes, pastries) and head to the Eiffel Tower lawns for a laid-back, unforgettable picnic.
Day 3: Champagne Day Trip
Treat yourself to a small group, full-day tour to the Champagne region.
- Checkout our tour here!
- It’s a little bit of splurge, but sipping Champagne straight from the source was an incredible experience!
Day 4: Montmartre Food and Coffee Walk
- Wander Montmartre, starting near Rue de l’Abreuvoir up toward Sacré-Cœur.
- Notable coffee and pastry stops: Noir Coffee, Leonie Bakery.
- Lunch spots to savor: Fric Frac (amazing croque monsieurs) and La Boîte aux Lettres (local favorite).
- Afternoon coffee at Coeur Coffee Roasters.
- Spend the afternoon window shopping, people-watching, and snapping photos of dreamy Parisian streets.
- Wrap the day with dinner at Pink Mamma — known for incredible Italian food and a stunning setting.
Day 5: Musée d’Orsay and Hidden Gems
- Morning coffee at Le Maung near our hotel.
- Morning visit to the Musée d’Orsay — less overwhelming than the Louvre but packed with Impressionist masterpieces. (Pro tip: book in advance and an early timeframe)
- If time allows, stroll through the Marché des Enfants Rouges or pop into boutiques in Le Marais.
- Toast your final night with cocktails at a hidden spot like Experimental Cocktail Club or the iconic Hemingway Bar at the Ritz.
Favorite Cafés, Restaurants, and Bars
Here’s a full list of the cafés, restaurants, and bars we loved — plus a few we didn’t get to but are saving for next time:
Coffee Shops
- The Coffee
- Coeur Coffee Roasters
- Noir – Coffee Shop & Torréfacteur
- Le Maung Coffee Roaster by OMG
- Terres de Café
- Cortado
- Dreamin’ Man
- BlackBird Coffee
- Parallel Coffee
Restaurants and Bakeries
- Pink Mamma
- Fric-Frac
- La Boîte aux Lettres
- Leonie Bakery
- Ravioli Queen
- La Jacobine
- Terra bar à vins
- Crêperie Le Goéland d’Aligre
- Pâtisserie Carl Marletti
- La Pie Noir
- Bien Élevé
- Bouillon Chartier
- La Felicità
Bars
- Experimental Cocktail Club
- Arbane Cocktail Bar
- Le Carlie
- Le 153 – Bar à Cocktails
- Le Comptoir Général
- Bar Hemingway
- The Cambridge Public House
Other Notable Mentions
- Other day trips: Giverny (Monet’s gardens), Versailles (grand royal splendor)
- Other museums: Musée de l’Orangerie (Monet’s Water Lilies), Musée Rodin
Pro Tips for Your Paris Adventure
- Book all major attractions online early — skip long lines and save time.
- Stay just outside tourist hotspots for better hotel rates and a more authentic vibe.
- Spend where it matters: champagne tastings, jazz nights, and artisanal meals.
- Embrace local bakeries and markets for memorable (and affordable) food experiences.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or coming back for another taste of Parisian magic, The Perfect 5-Day Paris Itinerary is your guide to experiencing the best of the city — from iconic sights to hidden corners. Savor the flavor, embrace the adventure, and discover the Paris that locals love.
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