What to Do in Paris for a Week: The Perfect Paris 7 Day Itinerary

If you’ve scored yourself a week in Paris, get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Wondering what to do in Paris for a week? I’ve got some great ideas for you!

From stunning landmarks to delicious French cuisine, this beautiful city has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a fashionista, or simply looking to immerse yourself in that charming French culture, I’ve got you covered with this ultimate Paris week itinerary guide on what to do during your one week in Paris.

If you only have 1 week in Paris, you might be wondering “How can I fit everything I want to see into my trip?” Or the opposite “Is 7 days in Paris too much?”

My gosh, I could spend months on end without ever tiring of Paris. Partly because Paris is my favourite city, but in reality, Paris is a big city and there are endless things to do. That’s why I keep returning to Paris over and over again (8 times in fact!). I am certain that your one week in Paris you will fall in love with it (as I did) and will make a promise to return (as I’ve done).

This article offers up a nearly perfect suggested Paris in a week itinerary where I reveal all of my secrets and best tips for planning the best week in Paris itinerary! Ready to dive in? Allons-y!

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Is it Worth Going to Paris for a Week?

Yes, most definitely yes! Jetting off to the beautiful city of Paris for an entire week will be a bucket list kind of trip!

Here are all the reasons why a week in Paris is a good idea!

• Iconic Landmarks at Your Fingertips: Paris boasts an unrivalled collection of landmarks that are sure to make your heart skip a beat. The Eiffel Tower standing tall against the skyline as you enjoy a picnic on its sprawling lawns is an experience like no other. And don’t forget about Notre Dame Cathedral or Sacré-Cœur Basilica; their architectural grandeur will transport you back in time.
• Culinary Delights to Savour: Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey through Parisian flavours! From buttery croissants in cozy cafés to indulging in escargots, crepes or steak tartare at traditional bistros. There is no better food than French cuisine.
• The Quintessential Parisian Experience: Paris is renowned for its romantic ambiance, and a week’s stay allows you to immerse yourself fully in its charm. From strolling along the romantic streets during the daytime to indulging in candlelit dinners at charming bistros until late into the evening, there’s never a dull moment.
• Artistic Marvels Around Every Corner: Imagine strolling through some of the world’s most iconic museums and galleries – Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou – all within reach during a week in Paris itinerary.
• Charming Neighbourhoods & Hidden Gems: Exploring Paris means discovering its diverse neighbourhoods—each with its own distinct personality. Wander through Montmartre’s artistic streets or get lost among bookshops along the Seine in the Latin Quarter. Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like Canal Saint-Martin, where locals gather for picnics and boat rides.

A Week in Paris Itinerary

“A week in Paris, what to do?” Don’t fret; I’ve got the perfect 7-day itinerary for you! But here’s a little tip – leave some space for spontaneous cafe stops, leisurely moments at a park, or any delightful detours that may come your way.

So, let this plan guide you, but don’t hesitate to venture off course and create your own memorable experiences and explore the city at your own pace.

Also, keep in mind these key factors:

1. this Paris 7 day itinerary assumes that you’ve already arrived in Paris the day before and fought off any jet lag with a good night’s sleep
2. there are a lot of suggested activities bundled into the main highlights, pick out your favourites
3. almost all museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. However, it’s these free Sundays that might be more crowded than usual
4. most museums are closed on Mondays so be sure to take note of where this might require you to adjust your 7 days in Paris itinerary

Day 1: Paris Highlights and Seine River Cruise

The first day of your one week in Paris itinerary is all about getting to know the city’s most famous landmarks. Let’s start at the Arc de Triomphe, an impressive monument honouring those who fought for France.

To avoid the hectic traffic at the roundabout, take the underground walkway to reach the Arc de Triomphe. For €13, you can enjoy a fantastic view of Paris from the top, including the iconic Eiffel Tower (one of my favourite vantage points)!

The view from the platform atop the arch is well worth it! Reserve your ticket!

Next, take a leisurely stroll down the famous Champs-Elysees, a bustling avenue lined with shops, cafes, and theatres. It’s a must on any Paris itinerary, especially for first-timers. While you’re walking down this iconic street stop in at Ladurée Paris for their famous macarons!

Take a little detour and stroll past Petit Palais. This underrated art museum is a stunner even from the outside. Venture inside for a tour of the permanent collection as it’s free.

Before you know it you’ll be at Place de la Concorde, where the historic Luxor Obelisk stands tall. Don’t forget to snap a picture with this ancient marvel! Nearby, you’ll find the beautiful Tuileries garden, a perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the macarons.

In the afternoon, walk along another famous street in Paris, Rue Rivoli and treat yourself to a decadent French hot chocolate at the beautiful tea room from 1903, Angelina.

Take a leisurely walk along the Seine River and don’t forget to visit the charming Bouquinistes (green book stalls selling used and rare books) along the banks for a delightful experience of Parisian culture. Maybe you cross some of the bridges like Pont Alexander III and admire the views of the Eiffel Tower.

End your first day in Paris with a delightful Seine River boat cruise. It’s the perfect way to unwind and witness the breathtaking sunset over the city’s enchanting skyline.

Check out my list of the best Seine River cruises for you to pick the one that perfectly suits your preferences.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Hidden Gems

Today is all about embracing the art and culture of Paris. Begin your day at the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s largest and most renowned museums. Prepare to be awestruck by iconic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Be sure to reserve your timed, skip-the-line Louvre tickets!

Next take a stroll through the nearby Palais-Royal gardens after your museum adventure. Photography enthusiasts will love the architecture here.

Afterward, uncover some hidden gems in the 2nd arrondissement by exploring the city’s best secret-covered passages. These charming, glass-covered arcades house quirky boutiques, cafes, and bookshops, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. There are a few that are in close proximity to each other – Galerie Véro-Dodat, Passage Choiseul, and Passage du Grand Cerf worthy of seeking out.

Venture to Place Vendôme one of the most prestigious squares in Paris, known for its upscale boutiques and hotels for luxury shopping and elegant strolls.

Make your way to the opulent Palais Garnier, the famous opera house to admire the awe-inspiring interior.

If you’re up for more enchanting views, make your way to Galeries Lafayette and head up to the rooftop terrace. Here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Day 3: Iconic Landmarks and Romantic Atmosphere

It’s time to check off some more iconic landmarks from your Parisian bucket list! Begin your day with a visit to the world-famous Eiffel Tower. It’s impossible to leave this one off your Paris in 1 week itinerary.

Start at Trocadéro Square, one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower. Stroll through Trocadéro Gardens and cross Pont d’Iéna for another great view. Don’t miss a tour of the Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic city views and marvelling at its intricate ironwork. It’s an experience you’ll never tire of!

Join a local guide next to the Eiffel Tower for a brief history before getting skip-the-line access to the observation deck to enjoy the city views! Book your ticket now.

Next, make your way to the charming neighbourhood of Saint Germain, known for its historic cafes, boutique shops, and the beautiful Jardin Luxembourg. Along the way stop at Rue Cler, one of the best foodie streets in Paris. You’ll pass by the Hôtel des Invalides which houses a series of army museums including the tomb of Napoleon. And the last highlight before you get to the 6th arrondissement is the Rodin Museum.

In Saint Germain, grab a coffee at the famous cafes Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, and admire one of the oldest churches in Paris, Saint Germain des Pres.

Venture into the bohemian Latin Quarter, where you’ll find an abundance of quaint bookstores, students, and a lively ambiance. My favourite bookshops worth checking out are Shakespeare and Company, be sure to stop by the nearby Odette for their cream puffs, and, the Abbey Bookshop.

End your day with a romantic sunset experience at Montparnasse Tower. The view from the top offers a breathtaking panorama of the entire city and one of the best in Paris!

Get ready to discover Paris’s iconic skyline from above with a ticket to Montparnasse Tower.

Day 4: A Day Trip to Versailles

To break up your Paris 7 days itinerary escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a day trip to the stunning Palace of Versailles. Just a short train ride away from Paris, this opulent palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit.

Stroll through the dazzling Hall of Mirrors and then stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens and immerse yourself in the grandeur of French history.

Get your Versailles Palace and Gardens with a pre-booked 1-day full access pass!

If you’ve already been to Versailles why not consider these other day trips from Paris:

• Champagne with 8 Tastings & Lunch: Join an 11-hour day tour in a small group to discover the Champagne region. Enjoy an authentic French lunch and visit a world-famous champagne house and a family-owned winery.
• Mont-Saint-Michel: Join a 12-hour day tour to Mont-Saint-Michel and explore its medieval monuments, including the extraordinary UNESCO site, the Gothic Abbey. Choose from a guided tour, audio guide, or a flexible ticket to explore at your own pace.
• Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches: Join a 12-hour day tour of the D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy. Learn about the Allied invasion on 6 June 1944 and visit memorial sites like Omaha Beach.
• Monet’s House & Gardens in Giverny: Join a half-day guided tour of Monet’s Giverny estate. Experience blooming flowers, savour a tranquil lunch, and immerse yourself in the world of the Impressionist art movement.

Or, why not leave France and head to another country for the day? Take an exciting day trip from Paris to Brussels, where you can explore the charming streets, indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles, and experience the unique blend of French and Flemish cultures in the capital of Belgium.

Day 5: Islands and Bohemian Vibes

Today, let’s explore the two enchanting islands in the heart of Paris. Begin on Ile de la Cite, the historical center of the city. Here, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Notre Dame Cathedral and the peaceful Square du Vert-Galant, offering a perfect view of the Seine.

Enjoy a light breakfast at the charming Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole cafe, one of Paris’s Instagrammable secrets. For a taste of medieval history, explore the Conciergerie a former royal palace turned prison during the French Revolution. One of my favourite places to visit is Sainte Chapelle a stunning Gothic chapel renowned for its breathtaking stained glass windows.

Cross over to Ile Saint Louis, known for its narrow streets, charming boutiques, and grand architecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in some delightful and creamy scoops from Berthillon ice cream parlour. Take your time to explore this quaint island before venturing into the trendy neighbourhood of Le Marais. It’s a great place for shopping, art galleries, and enjoying Parisian street life.

Get lost in the charming streets of Le Marais. Perhaps pop into the Picasso Museum, or explore the Jewish Quarter near Rue Rosiers while eating a delicious falafel from L’As du Fallafel. Visit the historic Place des Vosges and go treasure hunting for Parisian antiques in the Village of Saint Paul. In the evening, this neighbourhood has a great mix of buzzing nightlife with trendy bars and live music venues. If that’s not your preference, not to worry as Le Marais also has many cozy, romantic, quiet bistros to enjoy a leisurely meal.

Day 6: The Bohemian Charm of Montmartre

No Paris one week itinerary is complete without visiting Montmartre, a neighbourhood with a bohemian vibe and a rich artistic history.

Take a leisurely walk up to the iconic Sacre-Coeur Basilica, perched on top of the hill. The view from here is breathtaking, and the atmosphere is simply magical.

Afterward, wander through the charming streets of Montmartre, discover local artists, and visit the famous Place du Tertre. Iconic streets include Rue de l’Abreuvoir where you’ll find La Maison Rose cafe and Rue Lepic, the street where Vincent Van Gogh once lived.

Don’t forget to enjoy a traditional French meal at a cozy bistro like Le Consulat in this artistic haven and seek out the famous love wall where ‘I love you” is displayed in multiple languages.

When you’re ready to leave Montmartre, walk down one of my favourite streets, Rue des Martyrs, a historic street that crosses the 18th and 9th arrondissements.

Spend your evening where the locals hang out and no tourists can be found – the 10th arrondissement! Home to some of the trendiest bars, restaurants and Canal Saint Martin. The 10th arrondissement is famous for its diverse culinary scene. Places like Libertino, Bonhomme, Cho Cho, or Vivant. I spent three nights at a nearby hotel, Paradis Paris Hotel just so I could try as many of these amazing restaurants as I could.

Day 7: Choose Your Own Adventure

It’s the last day of your 7 day Paris itinerary, so why not choose your own adventure? Maybe you want to revisit one of the days from the 1 week in Paris itinerary you felt was too rushed. Or, if you want to explore new places here are a few options to consider:

• Canal Saint Martin: Enjoy a relaxing day by the canal, have a picnic, and watch the boats pass through the locks.
• Catacombs: Descend into the underground Paris catacombs and explore this eerie, but fascinating, maze of tunnels lined with bones.
• La Pere Chaise Cemetery: If you’re a fan of literature and history, visit this atmospheric cemetery where famous figures like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison are buried.
• Jardin des Plantes: A beautiful botanical garden featuring a stunning array of flowers and plants, and if you’re a fan of wildlife, don’t miss the nearby Natural History Museum.
• Pantheon: a historic mausoleum with an awe-inspiring neoclassical design. Inside, you’ll find the final resting places of some of France’s greatest figures, including Voltaire, Rousseau, and Victor Hugo.
• Musée d’Orsay: housed in a former railway station and home to an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Admire iconic works by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and more as you wander through this remarkable museum.

What to see in Paris in a week is endless. I tried to find a balance between the important landmarks with some lesser-known places. Each day is not scripted and leaves lots of room for you to explore on your own. If you want to dive into more specifics be sure to check out my articles under Read More. Here you will find more details about a specific area of Paris including restaurant recommendations.

Paris in One Week: Places to Stay

Now that your itinerary for Paris 7 days has been mapped out, it’s time to find you a place to stay. Each time I visit Paris I stay in a new arrondissement so I get to know each of the districts very well.

For your Paris in 7 days adventure, I recommend staying in central Paris making it easy to access your Paris in 7 days things to do. Look at places to stay in the following arrondissements: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th. Essentially you want to be within a short walk to the Seine River giving you easy access to both the left and right banks.

I know most people want to stay in the 7th Arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower or in Montmartre in the 18th Arrondissement, but it will require you to take the metro to get to the city centre where most of the itinerary Paris 7 days attractions will be found.

I especially enjoy staying in the neighbourhoods of Le Marais in the 4th arrondissement or Saint Germain in the 6th arrondissement, along with on the two islands. These neighbourhoods offer a perfect balance of historic landmarks, charming streets, and cultural attractions, and most importantly are close to everything.

I’ve pulled a few of my favourite places for your one week Paris accommodations.

Your Paris 1 Week Itinerary Packing List

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As a Holidaymaker

Paris truly offers a magical experience that captivates the hearts of all who visit.

If you want to learn more about this romantic city and discover additional recommendations for your trip, be sure to check out my other articles on Paris.

Bon voyage!

If you thought this article was helpful and want to read more, head to my France Travel Guide where you will have access to all my articles in one spot.