Itinerary
Organize your plans day by day
Dominating the skyline of Paris, the Iron Lady stands as the enduring symbol of French engineering and elegance. Constructed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, this wrought-iron lattice tower was initially criticized but is now the most visited paid monument in the world. Ascending its heights offers a breathtaking introduction to the city's geography. [Highlights]: Marvel at the intricate ironwork up close and take the elevator to the summit for a panoramic view that stretches for miles. Don't miss the glass floor on the first level for a vertigo-inducing perspective of the esplanade below. [Tips]: Book tickets online months in advance to skip the long ticket office lines. The second floor actually offers better photo opportunities of landmarks than the very top. Visit the Champagne Bar at the summit for a celebratory toast.
Located directly across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower, the Jardins du Trocadéro offer the most iconic, unobstructed vantage point for admiring the tower. The gardens were created for the Universal Exposition of 1937 and feature the spectacular Warsaw Fountains, which shoot water cannons in a dramatic display. It is a favorite gathering spot for both locals and tourists seeking the perfect backdrop. [Highlights]: The centerpiece is the Fountain of Warsaw, featuring 20 water cannons offering a remarkable aquatic display. The gilded bronze statues of animals and the limestone sculptures surrounding the basin add an artistic flair to the open space. [Tips]: This is the premier spot for the classic 'Eiffel Tower in the background' photo. If you stay until the top of the hour after sunset, you can watch the tower sparkle from the best seat in the house.
Drifting along the Seine is arguably the most romantic way to absorb the history of Paris. The riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage site, lined with the city's most prestigious monuments that glow with golden light as evening approaches. A cruise provides a unique angle on the architecture, passing under historic bridges like the ornate Pont Alexandre III. [Highlights]: You will glide past the Musée d'Orsay, the Louvre, and the restoration progress of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The commentary provides fascinating historical context about the evolution of the city from its river origins. [Tips]: Aim for a departure around sunset to experience the transition from day to night, seeing the monuments illuminate one by one. Bring a light jacket, as the breeze on the open upper deck can be chilly even in summer.
Once a fortress and then a royal palace, the Louvre is now the world's largest art museum, housing a collection that spans thousands of years of human history. The contrast between the classical French architecture and I.M. Pei's modern glass pyramid in the courtyard is a masterpiece in itself. Navigating its endless corridors is a journey through the artistic achievements of civilizations. [Highlights]: The three 'Grandes Dames' of the museum are mandatory viewing: the enigmatic Mona Lisa, the armless Venus de Milo, and the dynamic Winged Victory of Samothrace. Also, explore the opulent Napoleon III Apartments for a taste of Second Empire luxury. [Tips]: Enter via the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall underground entrance to often avoid the longest lines at the main Pyramid. Download the museum map beforehand and prioritize wings, as seeing everything in one day is impossible.
Designed by André Le Nôtre for Catherine de' Medici, these formal French gardens connect the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde. It is a quintessential Parisian promenade spot, featuring gravel paths, manicured lawns, and elegant statues by Maillol and Rodin. It serves as an open-air museum and a relaxing break from the city's stone streets. [Highlights]: Admire the Grand Bassin round pond where children sail toy boats, a tradition dating back decades. The perspective looking west towards the Obelisk and the Arc de Triomphe is perfectly aligned. [Tips]: Grab a sandwich from a nearby boulangerie or a quick bite at one of the garden kiosks (Paul or Amorino) and sit on the iconic green metal reclining chairs for a picnic lunch. It is a prime spot for people-watching.
Commissioned by Napoleon to honor the Grande Armée, this colossal arch stands at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, where twelve avenues radiate outward like a star. The intricate relief sculptures on its pillars depict famous battles and revolutionary scenes. Beneath the vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, whose flame is rekindled every evening. [Highlights]: The panoramic terrace at the top offers one of the best views in Paris because it includes the Eiffel Tower in the skyline. The geometric layout of the city's avenues is most visible from this height. [Tips]: Do not attempt to cross the chaotic roundabout on surface level; use the underground pedestrian tunnel. You can take an elevator partway up, but there are still stairs to the very top terrace.
Often described as the world's most beautiful avenue, the Champs-Élysées stretches from the Arc de Triomphe down to the Place de la Concorde. It is a bustling hub of luxury flagship stores, historic theaters, and cafes. While it has become very commercial, walking its wide, tree-lined sidewalks is a rite of passage for any visitor to Paris. [Highlights]: Window shop at luxury giants like Louis Vuitton and Dior. Visit the Ladurée flagship store for their world-famous macarons in an opulent setting. [Tips]: Be mindful of your belongings as this is a high-traffic tourist area. For a slightly more authentic coffee experience, try venturing into the side streets, but walking the main avenue is essential for the atmosphere.
Perched atop the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart shines with its white travertine stone that self-cleans when it rains. Its Romano-Byzantine architecture contrasts sharply with the Gothic style of Notre-Dame. The steps in front of the basilica are a popular gathering place offering sweeping views over the Parisian rooftops. [Highlights]: Inside, the apse mosaic of Christ in Majesty is one of the largest in the world. The dome climb rewards you with a view that can extend up to 30km on a clear day. [Tips]: Take the Funiculaire de Montmartre (uses a standard metro ticket) to avoid the steep stair climb up the hill. Silence is strictly enforced inside as it is a place of perpetual adoration.
This bustling square is the beating heart of Montmartre's artistic legacy, recalling the days when Picasso, Dalí, and Van Gogh roamed these streets. Today, the square is filled with easel-wielding artists painting portraits and landscapes for tourists, surrounded by 18th-century buildings housing bistros and cafes. It captures the bohemian spirit of old Paris. [Highlights]: Watch the artists at work; their technique is often impressive. The surrounding architecture creates a village-like atmosphere distinct from the grand boulevards of central Paris. [Tips]: If you want a portrait drawn, agree on a price firmly before sitting down. For lunch, avoid the restaurants directly on the square which can be tourist traps; walk a block away to Rue des Abbesses for better quality and prices.