Paris, the capital of France, is a city that needs no introduction. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the famous museums and bustling streets, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this iconic destination. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in 2023, here’s a two-week itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the City of Love:
Day 1: Arrival in Paris
After arriving in Paris, check into your hotel and take some time to get settled. If you have energy left after your travels, you might want to take a stroll around your neighborhood and start getting a feel for the city.
Day 2: The Eiffel Tower
Start your first full day in Paris with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Take the elevator (or, if you’re feeling energetic, the stairs) to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
Next, explore the Jardins du Trocadéro, a beautiful park located across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower with stunning views of the iconic landmark. You could visit the Palais de Chaillot, a beautiful palace located across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower that is home to several museums, including the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine.
Finally, end the day with a boat tour along the Seine River to see the city from a different perspective.
Day 3: The Louvre and the Marais District
Spend the morning exploring the Louvre, one of the world’s most famous museums. Don’t miss the Mona Lisa and the Winged Victory of Samothrace, two of the museum’s most iconic works of art.
After your visit to the Louvre, take a stroll through the Tuileries Garden, a beautiful formal garden located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde.
In the afternoon, head to the Marais district, a trendy neighborhood known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks. Don’t miss the Place des Vosges, a beautiful square lined with aristocratic mansions.
For dinner, try some traditional French cuisine at a cozy bistro in the Marais.
Day 4: Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Head to the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre, where you’ll find the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Take the funicular up to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the city, then explore the winding streets and visit the artist’s square, Place du Tertre.
Day 5: Champs-Elysées
Take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Elysées, a famous shopping and dining destination.
The Champs-Elysées is a popular tourist destination in Paris known for its luxury shops, theaters, and restaurants. Go shopping at the many high-end stores and boutiques along the Champs-Elysées, and then take in a show at the famous Théâtre Marigny, located just off the Champs-Elysées.
At the western end of the Champs-Elysées, visit the Arc de Triomphe, a famous triumphal arch that has stunning views of the city. You can visit the arch which is located in an iconic round-about.
Finally, enjoy a meal at one of the many chic restaurants located along the Champs-Elysées.
Day 6: The Palais Garnier and the Opera
Spend the afternoon at the Palais Garnier, a beautiful opera house known for its opulent architecture and famous performances. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building, or catch a show if one is scheduled during your visit.
Day 7: Versailles
Take a day trip to Versailles, a stunning location just outside of Paris.
Start your visit to Versailles with a tour of the Palace of Versailles, a stunning royal residence located just outside of Paris. The palace is home to opulent gardens, grandiose rooms, and breathtaking artwork. Be sure to visit the Hall of Mirrors, a stunning room filled with over 350 mirrors and 17 windows that overlook the palace gardens.
After your tour of the palace, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, which are home to over 50 fountains, flowerbeds, and water features. Don’t miss the grand canal, a large artificial lake that was once used for boating.
In the afternoon, visit the Petit Trianon, a small palace located within the grounds of Versailles that was once a retreat for Marie Antoinette. The palace is home to beautiful gardens and a stunning neoclassical interior.
Day 8: The Latin Quarter and the Pantheon
Spend the day exploring the lively Latin Quarter, a neighborhood known for its student population and vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss the Pantheon, a beautiful neoclassical building that now serves as a national mausoleum.
Day 9: The Musée de l’Orangerie
Spend the day at one of Paris’s most famous museums: the Musée de l’Orangerie, which is home to Monet’s famous Water Lilies series.
Day 12: Montmartre Neighborhood
Spend your day exploring the Montmartre neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and stunning views of the city. Visit the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, a beautiful Romanesque-Byzantine basilica located on the top of Montmartre Hill. Take the funicular up to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the city.
After your visit to the basilica, wander through the winding streets of Montmartre, stopping at charming cafés and boutiques along the way. Explore the winding streets and visit the artist’s square, Place du Tertre.
In the evening, catch a show at the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret, known for its extravagant performances and lively atmosphere.
Day 13: Notre Dame Cathedral
Today, take a trip to Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning Gothic cathedral located on the Île de la Cité in the center of Paris. Take a guided tour of the cathedral or climb to the top of the towers for breathtaking views of the city.
In the evening, dine at a classic French brasserie, known for their hearty dishes and lively atmosphere.
Day 14: Musee d’Orsay
Spend your final day in Paris at the Musee d’Orsay, a museum dedicated to Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Art Nouveau art. The museum is home to an impressive collection of works by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
After your visit to the Musee d’Orsay, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River, stopping to admire the beautiful bridges and landmarks along the way.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a chic restaurant, savoring the flavors of Paris one last time before you leave.
