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6-Day Parisian Dream: Art, History & Hidden Gems

⚖️Balanced Mix🏛️Culture & History👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Family with Kids💎Hidden Gems & Local Spots
6 daysspring

Immerse yourself in the art, history, and magic of Paris with this curated 6-day itinerary designed for culture lovers, families, and intrepid explorers!

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Our #1 travel tip

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.

Local guide, 2-3 hours

Major sights, hidden gems, local stories

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At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right

I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Paris, France, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Adrijana, founder of City Buddy
Browse FREE walking tours
Day 1Parisian Icons & Artistic Treasures
Morning
Free Walking Tour

~2 hours

Meet at the designated spot in the Latin Quarter for a historical overview of Paris. Focus on areas with interesting architecture and local stories.

Book FREE walking tour
Afternoon

Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum

Book tickets online in advance to save time. Consider the museum's layout beforehand to prioritize key exhibits like the Mona Lisa and Egyptian antiquities, especially with children, perhaps focusing on a specific wing.

4.7(361k reviews)~3 hours
Late Afternoon

Jardin des Tuileries

Jardin des Tuileries

Located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, this is a great spot for kids to play and for a relaxing break. Look for the Medici Fountain and enjoy the classic French garden design.

4.6(117k reviews)~1.5 hours

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Macaron
Breakfast$7

Find a reputable patisserie and try a few colorful macarons. These delicate meringue cookies come in a variety of fruit and chocolate flavors.

Macaron
Lunch
Look for a bistro in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area and order a classic Croque Monsieur or a Quiche Lorraine with a side salad.
$20
Coq au vin
Dinner$25

Seek out a traditional French restaurant and enjoy this hearty dish of chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms and lardons.

Coq au vin
Paris is best navigated using the Metro and bus system. For taxis, Uber and Bolt are recommended with a base fare around $2.50 per kilometer.

AccommodationLe Marais (historic central district)

This central, historic district offers easy access to many attractions and charming streets perfect for exploration.

Hotel in Le Marais (historic central district)
$100-150/night

This central, historic district offers easy access to many attractions and charming streets perfect for exploration.

Search hotels in this area
Day 2Royal Grandeur & Iconic Heights
Morning

Palace of Versailles

Palace of Versailles

Dedicate at least half a day to explore the palace and its vast gardens. Consider booking tickets and a guided tour in advance to save time and enhance the experience, especially with children.

4.6(163k reviews)~4 hours
Afternoon

Champ de Mars

Champ de Mars

This large public greenspace is perfect for a family picnic and offers great views of the Eiffel Tower. Let the children run around and enjoy the open space.

4.6(219k reviews)~3 hours
Late Afternoon

Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower

Book tickets online well in advance to avoid long queues, aiming for a late afternoon or early evening slot for potentially stunning sunset views. Opt for a summit ascent for the most memorable experience.

4.7(481k reviews)~3 hours

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Macaron
Breakfast$7

Find a local patisserie and try a selection of macarons - delicate almond meringue cookies with various flavored fillings.

Macaron
Lunch
Look for a traditional bistro near the Eiffel Tower and order a classic French onion soup or a croque monsieur.
$20
Ratatouille
Dinner$20

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Latin Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and affordable eateries. Order a hearty portion of ratatouille, a flavorful Provençal stew of vegetables.

Ratatouille
Paris is best navigated using the Metro, bus, or RER trains. Consider purchasing a Navigo Easy pass for easy tap-and-go travel. For shorter distances or convenience, ride sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are available, with taxi costs averaging around $2.5/km.

AccommodationLe Marais (historic and trendy neighborhood)

Le Marais is a central and charming area with a mix of historical sites, parks, and family-friendly activities, making it a convenient base for exploring Paris.

Airbnb in Le Marais (historic and trendy neighborhood)
$100-200/night

Le Marais is a central and charming area with a mix of historical sites, parks, and family-friendly activities, making it a convenient base for exploring Paris.

Search hotels in this area
Day 3Impressionism & Intellectual Hubs
Morning

Musée d'Orsay

Musée d'Orsay

This museum, housed in a former railway station, features an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Focus on the upper level for the best views and masterpieces.

4.8(111k reviews)~3 hours
Afternoon

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Explore this historic neighborhood known for its literary cafes, art galleries, and charming streets. Look for the Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the oldest churches in Paris.

4.7(123k reviews)~3 hours
Late Afternoon

Luxembourg Gardens

Luxembourg Gardens

A beautiful Parisian park with playgrounds, pony rides, and puppet shows, making it ideal for children. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or relax by the Medici Fountain.

4.7(123k reviews)~2 hours

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Macaron
Breakfast$7

Find a patisserie and indulge in a colorful assortment of macarons, delicate meringue-based confectioneries.

Macaron
Ratatouille
Lunch$20

Seek out a traditional bistro in the Latin Quarter and order Ratatouille, a flavorful stewed vegetable dish originating from the region.

Ratatouille
Dinner
Enjoy a classic French meal at a restaurant in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, perhaps a steak frites or duck confit.
$20
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés area is very walkable. For longer distances, use the Metro or bus system. Taxis can be hailed or booked via apps like Uber or Heetch; expect around $2.5/km.

AccommodationSaint-Germain-des-Prés (classic Left Bank neighborhood)

This central Left Bank area is perfect for exploring museums and gardens, with plenty of family-friendly cafes and shops.

Hotel in Saint-Germain-des-Prés (classic Left Bank neighborhood)
$100-200/night

This central Left Bank area is perfect for exploring museums and gardens, with plenty of family-friendly cafes and shops.

Search hotels in this area
Day 4Artistic Vistas & Whimsical Discoveries
Morning

Montmartre

Montmartre

Wander through the charming streets of Montmartre, known for its artistic history. Look for Place du Tertre to see artists at work and explore the quieter, hidden squares away from the main crowds.

4.7(159k reviews)~2 hours
Late Morning

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. Afterward, let the children enjoy the nearby green spaces and street performers.

4.7(159k reviews)~1.5 hours
Afternoon
Explore the Covered Passages

~3 hours

Discover Paris's charming covered passages like Galerie Vivienne or Passage des Panoramas. These historic arcades offer unique shops and a glimpse into 19th-century Parisian life, providing a sheltered and engaging experience for all ages.

Late Afternoon

Musée de la Magie et des Automates

Musée de la Magie et des Automates

Engage your family's imagination at the Museum of Magic and Automata. This interactive museum is specifically designed to entertain children with fascinating displays of optical illusions and antique automatons.

4(1k reviews)~2 hours

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Macaron
Breakfast$7

Start your day with breakfast at a local boulangerie. Pick up some fresh macarons in assorted flavors, a delightful and iconic Parisian treat.

Macaron
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a casual bistro in the Grands Boulevards area near the covered passages. Opt for a classic Croque Monsieur or a fresh salad for a satisfying and kid-friendly meal.
$20
Coq au vin
Dinner$25

For dinner, find a traditional restaurant in Montmartre. Savor a classic Coq au vin, a rich French stew made with chicken braised in red wine, perfect for a comforting evening meal.

Coq au vin
Getting around Montmartre is best done on foot due to its hilly terrain and charming narrow streets. For longer distances, use the Metro. Taxis can be hailed using Uber or Bolt, with an estimated cost of $2.5/km.

AccommodationMontmartre (artistic neighborhood in Paris)

This area is perfect for immersing yourselves in art and culture, offering a bohemian atmosphere with stunning views and family-friendly streets.

Hotel in Montmartre (artistic neighborhood in Paris)
$100/night

This area is perfect for immersing yourselves in art and culture, offering a bohemian atmosphere with stunning views and family-friendly streets.

Search hotels in this area
Day 5Gothic Marvels & Island Charms
Morning

Île Saint-Louis

Île Saint-Louis

Wander through the charming streets and admire the preserved 17th and 18th century architecture. Stop by Berthillon for a famous ice cream cone on a warm afternoon.

4.6(639 reviews)~2 hours
Late Morning

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral

While the interior is closed for restoration, observe the exterior and learn about its history from the park in front. Children will be fascinated by the sheer scale and the gargoyles.

4.7(86k reviews)~2 hours
Afternoon

Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle

Be amazed by the stunning stained glass windows. Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and artistry, which can be engaging for older children. Younger children might enjoy a scavenger hunt for specific colors or figures in the glass.

4.6(48k reviews)~1.5 hours
Late Afternoon

La Conciergerie (guided visit)

La Conciergerie (guided visit)

Explore this former royal palace and prison, most famously known for holding Marie Antoinette. A guided tour will bring the history to life for both adults and older children.

4.4(11k reviews)~2 hours

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Macaron
Breakfast~$7

Find a local patisserie and indulge in a colorful assortment of macarons, a delicate almond meringue confection.

Macaron
Coq au vin
Lunch~$20

Seek out a traditional bistro in the Latin Quarter and savor this classic French stew of chicken braised with wine, lardons, and mushrooms.

Coq au vin
Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Opt for a well-prepared steak frites or a flavorful French onion soup.
~$20
The Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis are best explored on foot. For longer distances or tired legs, the Metro is efficient and affordable. Consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Heetch, with a per-km price around $2.5.

AccommodationSaint-Germain-des-Prés (classic Left Bank neighborhood)

This central Left Bank area offers easy access to historical sites, charming streets, and family friendly cafes, making it a convenient base for exploring.

Hotel in Saint-Germain-des-Prés (classic Left Bank neighborhood)
$100-200/night

This central Left Bank area offers easy access to historical sites, charming streets, and family friendly cafes, making it a convenient base for exploring.

Search hotels in this area
Day 6Sculpture Gardens & Local Flavors
Morning

Musée Rodin

Musée Rodin

This museum features Rodin's iconic sculptures like 'The Thinker' and 'The Kiss' in a beautiful mansion and gardens. It's engaging for children, with plenty of space to explore outdoors.

4.7(20k reviews)~2 hours
Late Morning

Marché Saxe-Breteuil

Marché Saxe-Breteuil

This open-air market is a fantastic place to experience local life. Arrive around 9:30 AM to see it in full swing. Focus on sampling cheeses and observing the vibrant atmosphere rather than purchasing souvenirs.

4.5(155 reviews)~1 hours
Afternoon

Jardin du Luxembourg Aquarium

Jardin du Luxembourg Aquarium

Located within the Luxembourg Gardens, this small aquarium is a delightful stop for kids. The gardens themselves offer playgrounds and pony rides, making it a great place for a family break.

4.7(126k reviews)~2 hours
Evening
Attend a classical music concert in a historic church

~1.5 hours

Look for concerts at Sainte-Chapelle or Saint-Eustache church. Check local listings for schedules. Many churches offer free entry to admire the architecture even if not attending a concert.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

Breakfast
Grab a quick breakfast at a local boulangerie. Try a croissant and coffee for a classic Parisian start.
$7
Macaron
Lunch$20

Find a patisserie in Saint-Germain-des-Prés and enjoy a light lunch of quiche or a croque monsieur, followed by a colorful macaron for dessert.

Macaron
Crème brûlée
Dinner$35

For dinner, seek out a traditional bistro in the Latin Quarter. Order a classic French main course like steak frites and end with a decadent crème brûlée for dessert.

Crème brûlée
The 6th arrondissement is very walkable, but the Metro is efficient for longer distances. Consider lines 4, 10, or RER B. Using apps like Uber or Heetch is convenient, with an estimated cost of $2.50 per kilometer.

AccommodationSaint-Germain-des-Prés (classic Left Bank neighborhood)

This area is known for its literary history and charming streets, offering a sophisticated yet family-friendly atmosphere with proximity to many attractions.

Airbnb in Saint-Germain-des-Prés (classic Left Bank neighborhood)
$150-250/night

This area is known for its literary history and charming streets, offering a sophisticated yet family-friendly atmosphere with proximity to many attractions.

Search hotels in this area

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Budget Breakdown

Accommodation / night$100
Food / day$50
Transport / day$25
Activities / day$50
Daily total$225
Trip total$1,350

Daily total is an estimate. Trip total is for 6 days. Currency is USD. Met the family and off-the-beaten-path explorer needs. Added a buffer for the culture and history enthusiast.

Good to Know

Tap water: Safe to drink
Power plug type: C, E
Best taxi apps: Uber, Bolt, Heetch
Public transport: Metro, Bus, RER
Tipping culture: Appreciated but not mandatory
Foreigner friendliness: Good (7/10)
Neighborhood exploration: Explore Le Marais for historic charm, Canal Saint-Martin for trendy vibes, and Belleville for street art and local eats.
Kid-friendly attractions: Jardin du Luxembourg (playground, puppet shows), Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie (interactive science museum), and boat tours on the Seine offer family fun.
Historical sites with fewer crowds: Visit Sainte-Chapelle for stunning stained glass, explore the Catacombs (book ahead!), and wander through charming Place des Vosges.
Pacing your trip: Balance museum visits with park breaks. Consider a Museum Pass to save time and money. Use the efficient metro for longer distances.

Pre-Trip Checklist

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