10 Days in Paris: The Perfect Itinerary

There are so many things to do in Paris, from exploring hidden gems to seeing the iconic highlights – like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. Spending 10 Days in Paris is a perfect amount of time to explore and get a good feel for the beautiful French capital.

Paris is truly an incredible city, and after visiting several times on my own, I’ve put together an ideal 10 day Paris itinerary. This day-by-day itinerary is perfect for first timers or those who just love Paris, as it is filled with a mix of must-see places and a sprinkle of hidden gems.

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Don’t have time to read this whole post? Here are the best tips for planning your 10 days in Paris:

How to Spend 10 Days in Paris

When visiting Paris, it is good to have things planned but without over planning, as you will want time to wander the streets, shop, or enjoy a glass of wine.

This 10 days in Paris itinerary includes many things to do without being totally overpacked. For the most part, each day includes a few different activities (but you could easily just do less based on your travel pace).

Especially on a 10-day trip, you will want to have some downtime to wander the streets of Paris, sip wine at a café, and just enjoy the Parisian atmosphere.

10 Days in Paris Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Paris Walking Tour

Bienvenue à Paris! 👋

You first day in Paris is all about enjoying the Parisian atmosphere and getting acquainted with the city.

Typically when I first arrive to a new city, I like to give plenty of time to check into my hotel and then casually wander around the neighborhood.

Its a perfect way to get an idea of your surroundings, stop at a café and enjoy a glass of wine, and just get a relaxing start for your next 10 days in Paris.

Insider Tip: I don’t recommend planning any major activities, dinner reservations, or shows on your first day just in case of flight delays or jet lag.

Take a Paris Walking Tour

If you are arriving earlier in the day and want to have some kind of plan the best thing to do is take a walking tour.

This 3-hour walking tour covers many of the iconic sites of Paris, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, plus it will show you how to use the Metro System.

⭐ Book the Welcome to Paris Small Group Walking Tour

A walking tour will help you to get a feel for Paris, and learn more about the city before setting off and exploring on your own for the next few days.

This is especially a nice option if you arrive early and need something to do before checking into your hotel.

Day 2: The Eiffel Tower & Arc de Triumph

On day 2, you’ll visit the iconic Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triumph. You can also choose to get professional photos in front of the Eiffel Tower.

Trocadéro (Best Views of the Eiffel Tower)

For your first stop of the day, visit Trocadéro for the most incredible views of the Eiffel Tower. Trocadéro is actually located directly across the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower.

If you’re up for it, I recommend getting here super early (like 7-8am) because this area gets crowded later in the day.

Paris Photoshoot

Photos in front of the Eiffel Tower are iconic, and honestly it is the best souvenir from Paris. While you can take selfies at Trocadéro, I think it is so worth it to do a professional photoshoot like this one.

⭐ Book an Eiffel Tower Photoshoot

The Eiffel Tower

You can’t visit Paris without going up the Eiffel Tower! 🇫🇷

For this activity, you will want to get tickets in advance via the Eiffel Tower website or by taking a tour like this one that takes you to the Eiffel Tower Summit.

Enjoy a glass of champagne at the very top as you experience incredible views of Paris!

⭐ Book Your Eiffel Tower Tickets Here

Stroll along the Champs-Élysées

Next, take a walk along one of Paris’ most famous streets, Champs-Élysées. There are plenty of restaurants and cafe’s in this area to grab some lunch or coffee.

If you love shopping, this is where you will find many luxury stores such as Louis Vuitton. There are also some cool fashion museums like La Galerie Dior or Musée Yves Saint Laurent.

If you aren’t a shopper, there are plenty of restaurants and cafe’s in this area to grab some lunch or a glass of wine at. Additionally, you may enjoy checking out Palais de Tokyo, a modern art museum.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is another iconic landmark in Paris. You can even go inside and climb the stairs for postcard views of Paris, just keep in mind there is about 280 steps.

The Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars.

Under its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in remembrance of the sacrifices made in the World War I.

If you are interested in going up the Arc de Triomphe, you can get tickets here.

See the Eiffel Tower at Night

Make sure to head back to Trocadéro for some beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower lit up at night. From 8 pm to 1 am, exactly on the hour, the Eiffel Tower will sparkle for 5 minutes. It is an incredible sight to see, and a must-do while in Paris.

Crazy Horse Show

If you are looking for another night time activity, I recommend the Crazy Horse cabaret show.

This is best for adults-only as its a burlesque show. It is risqué, but in a very classy and artistic way, and the seating is less crowded/more luxurious than other cabaret shows.

You can book tickets to Crazy Horse here.

Day 3: The Louvre Museum, Tuileries Gardens, and Palace Garnier

Day 3 is much more relaxed than day 2, so take some time to sleep in or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a Parisian café.

Another option is to start your morning at the famous Angelina, a famous and historic teahouse in Paris. They have all kinds of sweet treats, including the best hot chocolate in the city.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is France’s most famous art museum. It is home to some of the most iconic works of Western art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

The Louvre is massive, and there is so much to see that it can be overwhelming. Due to this, I definitely recommend taking a guided tour of the Louvre.

This way you’ll get the most out of your visit plus be able to skip the crazy long lines!

This small-group Louvre Tour is perfect for an in-depth overview and for seeing the main highlights like the Mona Lisa.

For a more personalized experience, this Private Louvre Tour is phenomenal.

⭐ Book a Skip the Line Guided Tour of the Louvre

Important Note: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays.

Tuileries Garden

After seeing the Louvre, take a stroll through the beautiful Tuileries Garden. If you are visiting in the warmer months, make sure to enjoy some Gelato or Macarons here!

The Tuileries Garden is not only beautiful, but its also historic. It was created by Catherine de’ Medici as the garden of the Tuileries Palace in 1564, and was opened to the public in 1667. Since the French Revolution in 1789, it has been a public park.

Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier, also known as the Opéra Garnier, is a stunningly beautiful and historic opera house.

It originally opened in 1875, and since has been home to theater shows and opera performances.

You can visit the Palais Garnier during the hours of 10am to 5pm, or perhaps even attend a performance here.

Galleries Lafayette

While you are in the area, make sure to also stop by the Galleries Lafayette Rooftop for incredible views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.

Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles

Visiting the Versailles Palace is a must when in Paris as its one of the most important historical and cultural sites in France.

Important Note: the Versailles Palace is closed on Mondays.

Versailles Palace and Gardens

You can either travel to Versailles on your own by taking the RER C Train or by taking a guided tour that includes transportation and skip the line access.

⭐ Click Here to Book your Guided Tour to Versailles

Versailles Palace can get crowded, so even if you take public transportation to get there it is best to have skip the line tickets or be there as soon as it opens.

After visiting the Palace, make sure to explore the massive Versailles Gardens and the smaller palaces. Its incredibly beautiful, and these areas are far less crowded than the main palace.

For more information about visiting Versailles, check out this post on why Versailles is worth visiting.

Day 5: Montmartre & Moulin Rouge

Easily one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris, Montmartre is worth visiting.

The neighborhood has a village-type feel, with cobblestone streets that wind up the hill to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

It is known for being the artists corner of Paris, and today is home to several art galleries, cafes, and street artists.

Montmartre Walking Tour

This highly-rated walking tour is one of the best ways to experience Montmartre.

Your local guide will take you around to all the beautiful sites, and you’ll even try croissants at one of the neighborhood’s best bakeries.

⭐ Check Availability and Book the Montmartre Walking Tour

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a must-see when in Montmartre, and is one of the iconic landmarks of Paris. It sits on top of the hill, and is stunningly beautiful.

Moulin Rouge Show

While in Montmartre, make sure to check out a Moulin Rouge show. Moulin Rouge is the most famous cabaret show in Paris.

It is known for its high energy, lavish costumes, and the famous Can-can dance. The Moulin Rouge building itself is quite iconic, with its famous red windmill.

The Moulin Rouge show sells out fast, so you need to buy tickets in advance.

⭐ Check Availability and Book Moulin Rouge Tickets

Day 6: The Latin Quarter & Notre Dame Cathedral

On this day, explore the Latin Quarter, one of the most historical neighborhoods in Paris.

The Latin Quarter is famous for being the home of Sorbonne University, and it was also where the first French University was formed in 1160AD.

Latin Quarter Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore the Latin Quarter is by taking a walking tour like this one with a local guide.

Instead of just wandering the streets aimlessly, this tour will give you insight to the history and culture of the Latin Quarter.

The tour will also take you past sites like Sorbonne, the Pantheon, and previous homes of famous residents such as Hemingway, Descartes, and James Joyce.

⭐ Check Availability and Book a Latin Quarter Walking Tour

Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

This charming English bookstore is a must-visit in the Latin Quarter. It opened its doors in 1951 and was once an important meeting place for famous English writers.

Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an iconic landmark of Paris.

Sadly, the cathedral suffered a massive fire in 2019 and is currently under repair. However, it is still worth seeing the beautiful cathedral from the outside.

Bouquinistes of Paris

Near the Notre Dame Cathedral and along the banks of the Seine River, you’ll notice small shops with local artisans selling their wares. These are known as the Bouquinistes of Paris.

They sell a variety of things such as vintage items, artwork, antique books, and more. It is a really great place to get a souvenir from Paris.

Day 7: Take a Day Trip from Paris

When you have 10 days in Paris, there is plenty of time to take a day trip! Below are some of the best day trips to take from Paris.

Loire Valley Castles – Best for culture and wine lovers

Loire Valley is a beautiful region in France, known for its wine, charming villages, and stunning castles.

On this day trip, you will visit the Château de Chambord (the inspiration for the Beauty and the Beast Castle), visit the town of Blois, taste local wines, and see the elegant Château de Chenonceau. It is an incredible day trip.

⭐ Check Prices and Book a Day Trip to Loire Valley

Normandy D-Day Beaches Day Trip – Best for history buffs

D-Day was an important turning point in World War II, and the Normandy beaches are where this famous day in history took place.

While this tour is a long day, it includes a lot of history and important sites like the Utah Beach Museum, the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, Omaha Beach, and more. You’ll also see an original D-Day B-26 fighter plane.

⭐ Check Prices and Book a Day Trip to Normandy

Disneyland Paris – Best for families

Experience the magic of Disney but with a Parisian twist at the only Disney World in Europe. If you are a big fan of Disney or have young children this may be an ideal day trip.

⭐ Check Prices and Book a Day Trip to Disneyland Paris

Day 8: Saint Germain, Luxembourg Gardens, and the Paris Catacombs

On this relaxed day in Paris, you can sleep in (which might be needed after a long day trip the previous day) and have a leisurely breakfast.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Start your day by exploring the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, which is a beautiful yet lively part of Paris. There are plenty of shops, cafes, wine bars, and restaurants in this area.

Luxembourg Gardens

Next, head to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris. It is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

The Catacombs

For something different, head to the Paris Catacombs, which are are underground ossuaries in Paris. Make sure to book tickets in advance because lines can be long for this.

Note: It is a unique place, but if you are claustrophobic it might be good to skip it.

Montparnasse Tower

For another great view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower, head to the nearby Montparnasse Tower.

Here you can go to the top and visit the Panoramic Observation Deck for stunning views. I recommend going at sunset!

Day 9: Le Marais & Seine River Dinner Cruise

For your last full day in Paris, you can either enjoy a relaxing morning at a café or visit one of the museums.

I definitely recommend Musée d’Orsay, which is a fantastic an art museum.

Le Marais

In the early afternoon, explore the Le Marais neighborhood of Paris by taking this food & walking tour.

During this tour you’ll wander the medieval streets and stop in the neighborhood’s best brasseries, boulangeries, and markets to taste some of the best food in Paris.

⭐ Check Prices and Book a Food and Walking Tour of Le Marais

Seine River Cruise & Dinner

For your last night in Paris, do something special by taking a dinner cruise down the Seine River.

Make sure to admire the Eiffel Tower when it lights up at night – its one of the most magical things about Paris.

⭐ Check Availability and Book a Seine River Cruise Dinner

Day 10: Breakfast, Free Time & Fly Home

Depending on when your flight leaves on day 10, you may or may not have time to explore more on your last day.

Keep in mind, you will want to plan around 1 hour to get to CDG, and I would recommend being at the airport 2.5-3 hours ahead of your flight if flying internationally.

If you have time in the morning, I recommend a leisurely breakfast at a café, where you can soak up all the Parisian atmosphere before leaving this incredible city.

If your flight or train isn’t leaving until night time, ask your hotel to store your luggage so that you can use the time to visit one of your favorite neighborhoods or do some last minute souvenir/gift shopping.

Another option is to take a fun bike tour around Paris, it is a great way to get some fresh air and a last glimpse of the city. Its also nice to stretch your legs before a flight (especially if it is a long one).

⭐ Book a Hidden Gems Bike Tour of Paris

Au revoir Paris! 👋

Where to Stay for 10 Days in Paris

I personally recommend staying in the 5th or 6th arrondissements of Paris. This includes the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Odéon neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are central, safe, and are lovely areas of the city.

Hotels I recommend in Paris:
📍 Hotel de Seine – Boutique hotel with traditional Parisian style
📍 Hôtel d’Aubusson – Luxury option with elegant rooms and a spa
📍 Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel – Views of the Eiffel Tower

Quick Tips for your 10 Days in Paris

I’ve been to Paris on several occasions for leisure and for work. Here are a few tips that I think will be helpful for first (or second or third) time visitors to Paris:

👉 Many people working in the tourist areas speak English. However, always start by saying Bonjour (Good Day/Morning) or Bonsoir (Good Evening), as it is considered polite in French culture.

👉 Book an airport transfer or official taxi when going from Paris to CDG Airport

👉 The Metro is easy to use and very affordable! One of the easiest ways to use it is to buy a 10-pack of tickets at the Metro station.

👉 Keep a close eye on your belongings – especially on the Metro or in crowded places. Pickpockets are an issue in Paris. I recommend a crossbody purse, and keep your hand on the zipper in crowded places.

👉 Air-conditioning is not common. If you are traveling in the summer make sure your hotel has AC in case of a heatwave. Most restaurants, museums, etc. do not.

👉 Paris is a big city, it can be crowded and in some places dirty (especially in the summer). This is why some people feel Paris is overrated, but I don’t agree with that.

Paris has beautiful architecture, lovely cafes, stunning gardens, and so much history and culture – just come with realistic expectations and you’re sure to find things you love about the city.

If you aren’t a big city person, you may want to spend a few days in Paris and then take a few days and visit smaller, more quaint towns like Bruges, Belgium.

FAQ: 10 Days in Paris

The Wrap-Up: 10 Days in Paris Itinerary

It is easy to spend 10 days in Paris because there are so many incredible things to do, from visiting world famous museums, wandering through charming neighborhoods, relaxing at a café, or admiring the Eiffel Tower at night.

Paris is an incredible city that is on many people’s bucket lists. Since the city is large and has so much to offer, spending 10 days in Paris is a perfect way to explore the French capital while also having time to simply enjoy your trip.