Paris Unlocked: 5 Days of Romance, Art & Culinary Magic

Day 1: Iconic Paris & Seine Magic

Start your morning at Café Kitsuné, nestled in the peaceful Palais Royal gardens. This stylish café serves top-tier coffee with a Japanese twist, making it the perfect spot for people-watching under tree-lined arcades. Just steps away is the legendary Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and thousands of other masterpieces. Once a royal palace, it’s now the world’s most visited museum—so don’t forget to book skip-the-line tickets and give yourself plenty of time to explore.

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For lunch, head across the street to Le Fumoir, a sleek French brasserie known for its refined classics and cozy atmosphere. Afterward, unwind with a Seine River cruise from Pont Neuf or Port de la Bourdonnais. You’ll pass Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and 37 of the city’s famous bridges as the audio guide brings centuries of Parisian history to life.

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In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at Chez Janou, a lively Provençal bistro tucked in the Marais. Their rich chocolate mousse and extensive pastis menu are local legends. End your night at Le Perchoir Marais, a trendy rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower—ideal for a sunset toast over the rooftops of Paris.

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Day 2: Royal Paris & Artistic Montmartre

Begin your day at Du Pain et des Idées, a 19th-century boulangerie beloved for its pistachio-chocolate “escargot” pastries and golden croissants. It's a local favorite and often considered one of the best bakeries in Paris. After breakfast, make your way to the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station. Inside, you’ll find works by Van Gogh, Monet, Degas, and more—an Impressionist dream.

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For lunch, enjoy a meal at Café Constant, a humble yet high-quality bistro near the Eiffel Tower, known for its no-fuss, flavor-packed French fare. Then take the Metro to Montmartre for an afternoon of exploration. Wander the cobbled streets, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for sweeping city views, and soak up the bohemian charm that once inspired Picasso and Dalí.

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Dinner is an experience at Le Refuge des Fondus, a quirky, graffiti-covered fondue spot where wine is served in baby bottles. It’s loud, fun, and unforgettable. Cap off the day with a nightcap at Terrass’’ Hotel Rooftop, a stylish lounge offering stunning Eiffel Tower views—perfect for couples or solo travelers to soak in the City of Light.

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Day 3: Versailles Adventure + Wine & Cheese

Kick off your day with a relaxed breakfast at Café Oberkampf, a neighborhood favorite known for its creamy flat whites, avocado toast, and laid-back charm. Then hop on the RER C train from Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel and head out to the Palace of Versailles—a breathtaking royal residence filled with golden halls, sweeping gardens, and fountains that dance to music in summer. From the Hall of Mirrors to Marie Antoinette’s private estate, it’s a historical escape just an hour from Paris.

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While in Versailles, enjoy a guided wine and cheese tasting near the local market, where a local expert introduces you to regional pairings like Brie from Meaux and Burgundy reds. It’s a delicious and educational way to connect with French terroir. After returning to Paris, head to Le Comptoir du Relais, one of the city’s most coveted bistros in Saint-Germain. Expect bold, rustic dishes and excellent people-watching from its charming terrace.

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End the night with a stop at Prescription Cocktail Club, a moody, candlelit speakeasy in the Latin Quarter that crafts some of Paris’s most imaginative cocktails. It’s where locals go when they want something smooth and special after dark.

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Day 4: Historic Core + Cooking Experience

Ease into the day at La Fontaine de Belleville, a classic café blending vintage Parisian charm with great espresso and occasional live jazz. Then, explore two of Paris’s most awe-inspiring Gothic landmarks: Notre-Dame Cathedral (currently under restoration) and Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its breathtaking stained glass that casts rainbows across the chapel floor. Both sit on Île de la Cité, the very heart of Paris.

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For lunch, wander a few blocks to Le Petit Pontoise, a quiet, intimate bistro serving soulful French classics and an impressive wine list. Afterward, dive into the literary roots of the Latin Quarter, where writers like Hemingway once roamed. Visit the Panthéon, the resting place of great minds like Marie Curie and Victor Hugo, and stroll Rue Mouffetard’s lively cafés and bookshops.

 

In the afternoon, take part in a French cooking class at La Cuisine Paris, located steps from the Seine. Whether you learn to make buttery croissants or a full bistro meal, this hands-on experience comes with expert instruction, wine, and a recipe book to take home.

 

Finish the evening with a Michelin-starred dinner at Septime, one of Paris’s top modern restaurants, where seasonal tasting menus showcase inventive, sustainable French cuisine in a minimalist setting.

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Day 5: Museums, Markets & Farewell Views

On your final morning, treat yourself to a cozy brunch at Hardware Société, an Australian-inspired café tucked near Sacré-Cœur. Expect hearty breakfast plates, great coffee, and a warm, welcoming vibe. Then make your way to the Musée de l’Orangerie in the Tuileries Garden—an intimate space known for Monet’s massive Water Lilies murals, plus works by Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse.

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Spend the afternoon exploring Le Marais, one of Paris’s most eclectic and historic districts. From boutiques and art galleries to medieval architecture, this neighborhood offers endless discoveries. Grab lunch at the cult-favorite L’As du Fallafel, where the lines are long, but the falafel is worth the wait. While in the area, pop into the Picasso Museum or just meander down Rue des Rosiers.

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Wrap up your trip with dinner at Clamato, a walk-in-only seafood bistro run by the Septime team. It's casual, creative, and perfect for sharing small plates of oysters and fresh catch. Finally, toast to your Paris adventure with a drink at Le Mary Celeste, a local-favorite bar known for inventive cocktails and a rotating oyster menu, nestled right in the heart of the Marais.

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Practical Travel Guide for Paris

Visa Requirements

U.S., Canadian, Australian, and most EU travelers can visit France visa-free for up to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

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Footwear

Pack comfortable, stylish shoes for walking—Paris is best explored on foot, and cobblestone streets are everywhere. White sneakers or low boots are Parisian-approved.

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Health Precautions

No special vaccines are required. Pharmacies are well-stocked and easy to find with a green cross sign outside. Travel insurance is always recommended.

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Water Safety

Tap water in Paris is clean and safe to drink. Bring a reusable bottle—many public fountains offer refills.

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Mobile Apps

• Citymapper or Bonjour RATP – Best for navigating the metro.

• Google Translate – For on-the-go French translation.

• TheFork – For restaurant reservations and discounts.

• Too Good To Go – Rescue delicious pastries and meals at discount prices from local bakeries.

 

Cultural Etiquette

Say “Bonjour” (hello) when entering shops or cafés and “Merci” (thank you) when leaving. Politeness goes a long way. Always greet with a smile, even if your French is limited.

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Language

French is the official language. Many Parisians speak some English, especially in tourist areas, but try a few French phrases—they appreciate the effort.

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Public Behavior

Parisians value quiet, especially on public transportation. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls on the metro. Keep your voice down in restaurants and cafés too.

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Transportation

The Paris Metro is fast, reliable, and easy to use. Buy a Navigo Easy Pass or carnet of 10 single-use tickets for convenience. Trains and buses are safe—even at night—but keep your belongings close.

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Health & Safety

Paris is generally very safe, but beware of pickpockets in busy areas like the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and major metro stations. Use cross-body bags, and don’t leave phones or wallets on café tables.

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Emergency Numbers

• Police / Fire / Medical: 112 (EU-wide emergency)

• Non-urgent medical help: 15

• U.S. Embassy: +33 1 43 12 22 22

 

Money

The Euro (€) is the currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but small cafés and markets may prefer cash. Tipping is not obligatory—rounding up or adding 5–10% is appreciated for great service.

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Cultural Considerations

Dining is an experience—expect leisurely meals. Don’t rush out after eating; it’s normal to sit and chat. Dress smart-casual and avoid loud or flashy clothing to blend in with locals.

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Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are ideal for mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is beautiful but busier, and winter offers cozy vibes and Christmas markets.

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Time Zone

Paris is in Central European Time (CET), UTC +1, and UTC +2 during Daylight Saving Time (March–October).