Paris Impression
Welcome to the enchanting city of Paris! This detailed 4-day itinerary promises iconic landmarks and culinary delights, and the historical richness that defines this incredible city. I had the opportunity to explore Paris in December of 2023 during my Christmas holiday. With lots of research and planning, I have developed a fun and adventurous itinerary for a quick trip to Paris. There is so much to see and experience, that even after your trip, you’ll be planning your return before you even board the plane. I was not sure what to expect from Paris, but the city exceeded expectations! Public transportation was a little stressful and communicating with locals was frustrating. Despite the setbacks, the city of love is 100% worth visiting.
Layout of a 4-Day Paris Adventure
- Day 1: Christmas at Disneyland Paris
- Day 2: Iconic Landmarks
- Day 3: Exploring Historic Sites
- Day 4: Palace of Versailles
Day 1: Christmas at Disneyland Paris
Christmas day looked different this year. Rather than opening presents at sunrise, I was hopping on the train to spend this special holiday in one of the most magical places in the world. I went on a journey to the magical realm of Disneyland Paris. 
The park, adorned with festive decorations, immerses visitors in a world of enchantment. From classic attractions to themed holiday shows, every corner radiated the joy of the season.
Explore Main Street, Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Discoveryland, each offering unique experiences. Be sure to check the schedules for the day so you can plan accordingly for parades and any events. It is best to have the Disneyland Paris app downloaded so you can see wait times, shows, restaurants, and more. The atmosphere of Disneyland Paris engulfs you in endless joy. If you’re a Disney fanatic and you find yourself in Paris, be sure to add Disneyland Paris to your stop!
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks
Morning: Day two was our first day stepping into the actual city of Paris. I suggest you begin your second day at the world-famous Louvre Museum, an architectural masterpiece housing artistic treasures like the Mona Lisa. Wander through the vast halls, discovering ancient artifacts and renowned paintings. Make sure you book tickets well in advance. If you have the Paris Museum Pass, you still must reserve a spot. Additionally, depending on the time of year, the opening hours extend until 9:45 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. Check the official website, but it is advised to visit at night as it is less crowded and is a more magical experience. Head to the adjacent Fontaine des Mers, a picturesque fountain that adds charm to the surroundings.
We then walked toward the Eiffel Tower for our lunch reservation which was quite far. I recommend providing yourself ample time to walk around the city as public transportation can be frustrating and take a long time. It’s also really nice to see all the places, people, and streets. We ate at the exquisite Francette, where you can savor delectable French cuisine. There was a phenomenal view of the Eiffel Tower and we were right on the river. If the menu does not align with your taste buds, I still highly recommend you have lunch with views of the Eiffel Tower on the Seine River. If it’s a warm day, many of the restaurants have rooftop decks which are ideal for a full view of this iconic structure.
Afternoon: After a satisfying meal, you can set your sights on the symbol of Paris—the Eiffel Tower. I recommend you ascend to the top for panoramic views of the city or enjoy a delightful crepe and tea at a nearby café. We opted for a nearby crepe. If you are interested in heading to the top of the Eiffel Tower, make sure to get skip-the-line passes and book them far in advance. I advise visiting the Eiffel Tower on your first night in Paris as it has a more captivating allure in the evening compared to during the day. I delve further into the ideal timing for a nighttime visit later in the blog.
I recommend you enjoy dinner with a cruise on the Seine River. There are tons of river cruises to choose from. If it is warm, it is a must experience. Another option is to get dinner, and then head out on a river cruise.
We continued our exploration with a leisurely stroll through the scenic Tuileries Garden, appreciating the beauty of its meticulously manicured lawns and sculptures. We then continued our journey to the Luxor Obelisk, a striking Egyptian monument located at Place de la Concorde. Since we were staying fairly far outside of the city, we took public transportation back to our hostel. Our hostel was not located in the best area as it was right on the edge of the city and quite far. After a long day of exploring, we went to a fast food place, Nachitos. There were limited food options close to our hostel. If you stay outside of the city in a more remote area, I advise you eat leftovers or eat in the city.
Day 3: Exploring Historic Sites
Morning: Start your day on a historical journey at the Conciergerie, a former royal palace turned prison during the French Revolution. Stroll around the vicinity, taking in the medieval charm. The Conciergerie is a historic building located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris, France. The building’s significance lies in its rich history, having been a residence for French kings in the medieval period before being repurposed as a revolutionary tribunal and prison. Notable figures, including Marie Antoinette, were imprisoned here during the Reign of Terror.
Today, visitors can explore the Conciergerie to learn about its role in French history and the tumultuous events of the French Revolution. The museum has interactive tablets that allow you to go back in time and see what the building used to look like. This was truly one of the best museums I’ve been to. You can go at your own pace and really make what you want out of the experience. This is included on the Paris Museum Pass.
Continue your morning with a visit to the iconic Notre Dame which is close to the Conciergerie. While the interior might be restricted at the moment, the exterior’s Gothic splendor is a sight to behold.
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris has undergone extensive restoration following the devastating fire in April 2019. It’s essential to check the latest updates and guidelines from official websites dedicated to the Notre Dame Cathedral to confirm current access and visitation options.
Afternoon: After seeing the Notre Dame, we decided to indulge in street-side crepes. There are a lot of street carts send up with chefs eagerly awaiting your order for a crepe. It was honestly a perfect snack and very enjoyable. We wandered into shops and even found a stunning plant market. I advise you do not over plan as Paris has tons to see. It is super walkable and walking really allows you to enjoy and appreciate your surroundings. We ended up having a delightful lunch at En Face, a charming café offering an array of French specialties. We had green beans and a pizza which were delicious. Having the flexibility to go anywhere for lunch was something we were super grateful to have as there are numerous delicious restaurants in the area. I highly advise you to allow some time in your schedule to just enjoy the moment and not have to rush to your next thing. As you walk through the historic district, absorb the ambiance of quaint streets and centuries-old architecture.
We ventured into the Cluny Museum, home to a remarkable collection of medieval artifacts, including the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. We did not have plans to go anywhere specific, but the Cluny Museum, also known as the Musée de Cluny or Musée national du Moyen Âge, was beautiful. Visitors also explore Roman baths dating back to the 3rd century AD which was very interesting. If you are looking for a less-crowded experience that involves art, history, and daily life during the Middle Ages. this museum is a nice spot to add to your schedule. Note that this museum is also on the Paris Museum Pass and it is generally not very crowded. This can easily be a spot to pop into for an hour to be indoors or to really appreciate art from this time period.
Evening: As the day draws to a close, head to the majestic Basilica for a breathtaking sunset view over the city. If you are following this exact itinerary, you will need to use public transportation to get to the Basilica or you can arrange a private transfer in advance. The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur in Paris is typically open daily, with hours varying by season (usually from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM in summer and 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM in winter). This is another fantastic place to visit later in the day. It’s a Roman Catholic church with beautiful interior mosaics and stained glass. The location is in the vibrant Montmartre neighborhood which is a must to walk around. I highly recommend heading to the Basilica for sunset. It was super crowded, but the magic here was undeniable. I knew the Basilica was a popular destination, but wow. This was one of the best parts of my trip. The energy of sitting and watching the sunset was just beyond amazing. After watching the sunset, we made a stop at Dengo for a cup of rich hot chocolate to warm us up.
Our walk continued in the Montmartre neighborhood. We then marveled at the illuminated Moulin Rouge building. I highly recommend you go to Moulin Rouge as it is indeed a famous cabaret venue known for its extravagant shows. It’s been an iconic symbol of Parisian nightlife and entertainment since it first opened its doors in 1889. Attending a show at the Moulin Rouge is a quintessential Parisian experience and a must-do for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant cultural scene. However, it’s essential to book tickets in advance, as shows often sell out quickly due to high demand.
Day 4: Palace of Versailles
Full Day: Prepare for a day of opulence at the Palace of Versailles. This was very easy to get to as there is a direct train to Versailles from Paris. It is outside of the city, but it is a must-visit location. The Palace of Versailles, located in the Île-de-France region of France, is one of the world’s most iconic and grandiose royal residences. Originally a hunting lodge built by Louis XIII, it was transformed into a lavish palace by his son, Louis XIV, in the 17th century. 
The palace served as the principal residence of the French monarchy until the French Revolution in the late 18th century. Known for its incredible architecture, magnificent gardens, and rich history, the Palace of Versailles attracts millions of yearly visitors. Start out your exploration of this grand estate, marveling at the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, and the stunning gardens. There is a ton to see so take your time. I advise looking into booking a guided tour/visit, but make sure it includes everything as the Trianon area is also wonderful! I did not have a guided tour, but I relied on my little booklet to provide me information on the different rooms and areas.
The Grand Trianon, a smaller palace located within the vast grounds of Versailles, was commissioned by Louis XIV in the late 17th century as a retreat away from the main palace. Designed in the elegant architectural style of pink marble and white stone, the Grand Trianon served as a private residence for the king and his closest associates. Its intimate scale and tranquil surroundings provided a stark contrast to the grandeur and formality of the main palace, offering a peaceful refuge for relaxation and entertainment.
The Petit Trianon, another charming architectural gem nestled in the gardens of Versailles, was built in the 18th century for Louis XV’s mistress, Madame de Pompadour. Later, it became closely associated with Queen Marie Antoinette, who used it as her private retreat away from the constraints of court life. The Petit Trianon reflects the neoclassical architectural style popular during the late 18th century and features beautifully landscaped gardens, including the picturesque Temple of Love. Today, visitors can explore the intimate interiors of the Petit Trianon and gain insight into the private life of the French monarchy. I honestly really liked getting to see all the different levels of the buildings within Versailles. I had not realized how many buildings there were!
Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, also known as the Hameau de la Reine, is a charming rustic village located near the Petit Trianon. Inspired by the pastoral idylls of the countryside, Queen Marie Antoinette commissioned the construction of this picturesque hamlet as a place where she could experience a simpler, rural lifestyle away from the formality of court. The hamlet includes several quaint cottages, a mill, a dairy farm, and a vegetable garden, all designed to evoke the ambiance of a traditional French village. Today, visitors to Versailles can stroll through Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet and admire its rustic charm, offering a glimpse into the queen’s personal tastes and aspirations.
After tons of walking and thoroughly exploring Versailles, we had lunch at Sisters Cafe which was conveniently located near the palace. They have classic American dishes and it’s a perfect place to provide you a chance to recharge before heading back to the city. Note that many restaurants close from around 3 pm to 7 pm.
Evening: As night falls, if you have not seen the Eiffel Tower as night, I highly recommend you head back. If possible, I advise you see it for the first time at night as it is mesmerizing. The Eiffel Tower twinkles with thousands of sparkling lights for five minutes at the beginning of each hour after sunset until 1:00 AM. This dazzling light show occurs every evening which provides you with multiple opportunities to witness the enchanting spectacle in Paris. Each twinkling session lasts for five minutes and repeats hourly, creating a magical ambiance that adds to the allure of the Eiffel Tower.
After admiring the Eiffel Tower, we walked along Av. des Champs-Élysées street which is filled with shops and restaurants. This was a really long walk, but our goal was to see the renowned Arc de Triomphe. There is a lot to explore on the bustling boulevard. Conclude your Parisian adventure with a stroll along the Seine, reflecting on the memories made during your trip.
Time to Plan Your Trip to Paris!
This meticulously crafted 4-day itinerary captures the essence of Paris, ensuring a multifaceted experience filled with iconic landmarks, culinary delights, and historical marvels. This is the exact itinerary that I did for my first trip to Paris and it truly was a trip to remember. Paris is a place filled with magic. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the City of Lights, each day offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, beauty, and historic joy!
Not all those who wander are lost – TTT
