Planning a trip to Paris? I just wrapped up an unforgettable 5-day adventure in the City of Light, and I’m excited to share every detail with you. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here’s my personal experience—with tips to help you make the most of your Parisian getaway.
Day 1: Arrival and First Taste of Paris
10:00 AM: Our flight landed at Charles de Gaulle Airport, and after a quick taxi ride, we checked into the citizenM Paris Champs-Élysées Hotel. It’s modern, cozy, and perfectly located. Tip: Book a centrally located hotel to save time on commuting.
12:30 PM: After freshening up, we headed to Brasserie L’Alsace for lunch. Their choucroute was hearty and comforting, and the crème brûlée? Absolutely divine.
2:00 PM: Feeling energized, we indulged in some retail therapy at Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées. Even if you’re not shopping, the architecture and window displays are worth a visit.
5:00 PM: We strolled through Place de la Concorde and wandered into the peaceful Jardin des Tuileries, soaking in the beauty of Parisian gardens.
7:00 PM: Our day ended with dinner at Kong Restaurant, a chic spot with breathtaking views of the Seine and the Paris skyline. Tip: Make a reservation in advance for a window seat.
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and Pop Culture
9:00 AM: We started the day with a fun visit to the Stranger Things Museum. Even if you’re not a super fan, the immersive experience is incredibly entertaining.
10:30 AM: Brunch at M Bistro Champs-Élysées was a treat, and we couldn’t resist stopping by Ladurée afterward for their famous macarons. The rose flavor was my favorite.
12:00 PM: At the Arc de Triomphe, we decided to admire its grandeur from ground level rather than climbing to the top. It’s a great spot for photos and soaking in Parisian history.
1:00 PM: We explored several luxury boutiques nearby, including the elegant Hermès store, where the craftsmanship and timeless designs left us in awe. Pro Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and consider making an appointment for personalized service.
2:30 PM: We walked at Trocadéro Gardens, where I finally saw the Eiffel Tower up close. It was such an emotional moment to stand there with my husband and take it all in. Pro Tip: The bridge near Trocadéro Gardens offers the best photo ops.
3:30 PM: Later, we explored Place Vendôme and enjoyed the free rooftop view at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. It’s an underrated gem for city views.
7:00 PM: Dinner was at Café du Mogador, where we enjoyed classic French dishes in a relaxed setting. A perfect end to the day.
Day 3: History, Art, and Iconic Views
8:30 AM: The day began with a leisurely walk around the Louvre Museum. Even without going inside, the architecture alone is stunning.
10:00 AM: We finally went up the Eiffel Tower, and the views were everything I’d dreamed of. Tip: Buy skip-the-line tickets online to save precious time.
12:30 PM: We spent the afternoon at the Musée de l’Armée and Cathedral Saint-Louis des Invalides, diving into France’s military history. It was both educational and fascinating.
3:00 PM: The ornate Pont Alexandre III and the art collections at Petit Palais were next on my list. Both spots are picture-perfect and full of charm.
4:30 PM: Hubby treated me to a designer bag at Louis Vuitton in Place Vendôme. It was a delightful Parisian souvenir!
6:30 PM: We met up with my cousin and her daughter for dinner at Le Castiglione, a cozy spot with fantastic French cuisine.
Day 4: Hidden Gems and Bohemian Vibes
8:30 AM: Breakfast at Stratto Paris Café was the perfect way to start the day. I’d recommend their croissants—flaky and buttery.
10:00 AM: We visited Sainte-Chapelle and was completely awestruck by its stained glass windows. Photos don’t do it justice; you have to see it in person.
11:30 AM: A short walk brought us to the Quartier Latin, where we admired the lively atmosphere and charming streets.
1:00 PM: The Fontaine Saint-Michel and Notre-Dame Cathedral were next. While Notre-Dame is still under restoration, it’s iconic nonetheless.
2:30 PM: We made our way to Montmartre, taking a taxi up to Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. The views from here are unbeatable, and the vibe of Montmartre is wonderfully bohemian.
6:00 PM: We ended the day with a dinner cruise on the Seine River aboard Bateaux Mouches. Seeing Paris illuminated at night from the water was pure magic.
Day 5: Farewell Paris
8:30 AM: My husband and I had breakfast with a former colleague who happened to be in town. We swapped stories and reminisced about our incredible Parisian adventure.
11:00 AM: After checking out of our hotel, we caught a train from Gare du Nord to Saint-Omer. It was bittersweet to leave Paris, but I’m taking with me memories that will last a lifetime.
Tips for Your Parisian Adventure
• Stay central. It makes exploring easier and saves time.
• Pre-book major attractions. Tickets for the Eiffel Tower and museums sell out fast.
• Pack comfortable shoes. Paris is best explored on foot, especially in areas like Montmartre and the Tuileries.
• Embrace Parisian dining. End your days with a meal at a cozy brasserie or café to soak up the local ambiance.
Paris captured my heart in more ways than one, and I hope my itinerary inspires you to create your own unforgettable journey. Bon voyage!
Travels by Cheryl Anne 