Five Fabulous Days in Paris: Your Taste of La Vie Parisienne

I always like to start my Paris trip with a red-eye flight, so I land first thing in the morning, ready to make the most of the day. After arriving, I take a car straight to the city center and check into one of my favorite hotels—the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel. It’s perfectly located, just steps away from the Eiffel Tower, and the views from the rooms are absolutely breathtaking. Here’s a little tip: if you call ahead, the hotel usually accommodates early check-ins, which is a lifesaver after a long overnight flight.

Once I’ve dropped off my bags and freshened up, I head out to find a croissant (because what better way to start your first day in Paris?). There’s a lovely local spot around the corner, Le Fils du Boulanger, where the croissants are flaky, buttery perfection. With a pastry and coffee in hand, I hop on the metro and make my way to Montmartre—one of my favorite neighborhoods in Paris.

Take the Anvers metro exit, and you’ll find yourself right at the base of the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur. It’s one of those places that never fails to impress, no matter how many times you visit. I like to spend a good hour there, soaking in the beauty of the stained glass, the peaceful atmosphere, and the sweeping views of the city from the top of the steps.

For lunch, Montmartre is full of classic Parisian cafés that feel straight out of a movie. I recommend Le Poulbot or Le Consulat—both serve traditional French dishes that hit the spot after a morning of exploring. Try the roast chicken or the French onion soup—rich, comforting, and perfectly seasoned.

After lunch, take time to wander. Montmartre is made for getting lost—every winding street is lined with local art shops, little boutiques, musicians, and charming corners that beg for a photo. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you can just go slow, people-watch, and let Paris unfold around you.

Before leaving the area, stop by Bachir for a sweet treat. Their pistachio ice cream is out of this world—creamy, nutty, and unlike anything you’ve had before. They have other flavors too, but pistachio is definitely the star.

As the afternoon fades, head back toward your hotel to rest or freshen up before the evening. I love spending my first Paris night doing something truly Parisian—dinner followed by a show at the legendary Moulin Rouge. It’s full of energy, color, and pure entertainment—the perfect way to end your first day in the City of Light.

There’s something magical about starting a trip in Montmartre—the history, the views, the food, and the easy rhythm of the day. And waking up at the Pullman the next morning with the Eiffel Tower right outside your window? It’s one of those “pinch me” moments that never gets old.

There’s nothing like waking up in Paris with the Eiffel Tower just outside your window. I like to start the day slow, soaking in the view for a few minutes before heading out for a hearty breakfast to fuel the day ahead. One of my favorite spots nearby is Le Bouchon Parisien—their French toast is absolutely incredible. It’s thick, golden, and perfectly caramelized, the kind of breakfast that instantly puts you in a good mood. Pair it with a cappuccino or café crème, and you’re ready to take on the day.

After breakfast, I always recommend doing the Big Bus Tour—it’s one of those touristy things that’s totally worth it. You can pick up the tour right by the Eiffel Tower, which makes it super convenient. Just buy your ticket there and hop on. The open-top bus takes you through all the main sights of Paris—it’s the perfect way to get a feel for the city, especially if it’s your first or second visit. I like to do the full loop once without getting off, just to take it all in—the energy, the architecture, and the incredible history surrounding every landmark.

One of my favorite stops is The Louvre. I always plan to spend at least four to five hours there, because there’s simply so much to see. Every visit feels different—I’ll wander through the grand halls, admiring iconic pieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, but I also love exploring the lesser-known wings filled with sculptures, ancient artifacts, and stunning paintings that tell stories from across centuries. What’s so fascinating is realizing how many things from our modern world—words, images, even brand names like “Nike”—have roots in the mythology and art preserved here. It’s like walking through a living encyclopedia of human creativity.

After the Louvre, I make my way to Notre-Dame Cathedral. Even after the fire, it’s still one of the most breathtaking and meaningful places to visit in Paris. The architecture, the history, and the feeling you get standing in front of it—it’s truly something that can’t be captured in photos. Take time to stroll along the Seine nearby—the bookstalls and street musicians add so much charm to the experience.

By late afternoon, I usually head back to my hotel for a little downtime—maybe a quick nap or just a moment to relax before dinner. Evenings in Paris are made for celebrating, and if you’re marking a special occasion (or just want a memorable meal), Bambini Paris is the place to go. It’s chic yet welcoming, with an atmosphere that feels lively and elegant at the same time. Start your meal with the burrata—it’s rich, creamy, and served with the most delicious bread. For the main course, you can’t go wrong with the risotto or the roasted chicken—both are incredibly flavorful and beautifully presented. And whatever you do, save room for dessert—the tiramisu is the perfect sweet ending to your Parisian evening.

Day two in Paris is all about balance—a little sightseeing, a little culture, and a lot of delicious food. It’s the kind of day that reminds you why Paris is such an unforgettable city: beautiful, inspiring, and endlessly rewarding every time you visit.

What can you say about the Palace of Versailles except that it’s gold, gorgeous, and gloriously gaudy? Every time I visit, I’m struck by how over-the-top and yet completely mesmerizing it is—a true masterpiece of royal extravagance. It’s the kind of place that makes your jaw drop the second you walk through the gates.

Getting there is easy—you can take the RER C metro line straight from central Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche, or opt for a car service if you want a bit more comfort. Either way, plan to leave early because Versailles is best enjoyed before the crowds arrive.

Here’s my favorite insider tip: book breakfast at the palace itself. There’s a lovely restaurant right inside where you can enjoy breakfast starting around 8 am, and the best part? You get to skip the long entry line afterward—it’s like a VIP pass that comes with coffee and croissants! The breakfast is classic and beautifully simple—think flaky pastries, golden toast, eggs made just how you like them, fresh juices, jams, and rich French coffee. The service is so charming that for a moment, you almost forget you’re sitting in one of the most famous palaces in the world.

After breakfast, head straight to the Hall of Mirrors—one of the most breathtaking spaces you’ll ever see. The chandeliers, the gold detailing, and the reflections of light bouncing off the mirrors make it feel like you’ve stepped back into the height of royal splendor. From there, take your time exploring the Royal Apartments. Each room has its own story, with rich fabrics, dramatic colors, and ornate details that give you a glimpse into the lavish lives of French royalty.

Once you’ve had your fill of the interior, step outside into the gardens—they’re an entire world of their own. Stretching endlessly, the gardens of Versailles are filled with sculpted hedges, fountains, statues, and wide pathways that seem to go on forever. It’s easy to spend hours here, just strolling and soaking in the peaceful beauty of it all.

If you want to see Marie Antoinette’s Estate, don’t miss it—but here’s another insider tip: take the tram or rent a golf cart. It’s about a 25–30 minute walk from the main palace, and while it’s a lovely stroll, it can be tiring after a full morning of sightseeing. The estate itself is completely worth it—quieter, more personal, and it gives you a sense of Marie Antoinette’s life away from the main palace, where she found a bit of escape from royal formality.

Exploring Versailles truly takes up the whole day—and that’s part of its magic. By the time you make your way back, you’ll have walked miles and taken hundreds of photos. If you’re catching the train back to Paris, aim for the last metro around 5 pm, or stay and enjoy a relaxed dinner nearby.

I love ending the day at Café Vous, a cozy spot close to the palace with a small but excellent menu. The dishes are simple but full of flavor—every bite feels like a reward after a long day of exploring. Their drinks are fantastic too, the perfect way to toast to a day spent surrounded by royal beauty and history.

By the time you return to Paris, you’ll be ready to rest—but you’ll also be carrying that Versailles glow with you, the kind that lingers long after the gold and grandeur fade from view.

After a full day exploring the grandeur of Versailles, I like to keep the next day a bit more low-key—a day to slow down, shop, and soak in the effortless elegance of Paris. For me, that means heading to the Champs-Élysées for a mix of world-class shopping, good food, and that signature Parisian energy.

I start my morning with breakfast at Carette, one of my absolute favorite spots. It’s the perfect place to ease into the day—classic Parisian charm with outdoor seating that’s ideal for people-watching. If you haven’t tried their hot chocolate, you’re seriously missing out. It’s thick, rich, and decadent—basically dessert in a cup, and yes, it’s totally acceptable to have it for breakfast. Pair it with one of their buttery croissants or a tartine, and you’ll understand why Parisians take breakfast so seriously. They have a full menu, too, so even if you’re in the mood for something heartier, there’s no guilt in indulging a little.

After breakfast, I spend the rest of the morning strolling down the Champs-Élysées, popping in and out of shops. The area is famous for its luxury brands and flagship stores, but it also has plenty of fun spots for window shopping or picking up gifts to take home. One of the things I love most about shopping here is the duty-free experience—it makes treating yourself just a little more justifiable!

A must-stop along the way is the Arc de Triomphe. It’s impossible to miss, standing proudly at the end of the avenue. Even if you’ve seen it before, it never fails to impress. I like to walk around it, take in the view, and, if I’m feeling adventurous, climb to the top. The view from there is one of the most breathtaking in all of Paris—the city stretches out in every direction, with the Eiffel Tower perfectly framed in the distance. Here’s a little insider tip: there’s now a designated photo lane right in front of the Arc, so you can safely snap that perfect picture without dodging traffic!

After soaking in the view, I usually make my way to Louis Vuitton’s flagship store. I meet up with my sales associate to browse what’s new and, of course, to get my European passport stamp—a fun little souvenir from each visit. I always like to pick out a small take-home piece as a reminder of my trip, something that feels uniquely Parisian.

To keep the shopping adventure going, I hop over to Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, one of Paris’ most iconic department stores. Even if you’re not a big shopper, it’s worth visiting just for the stunning architecture—the grand glass dome alone is worth the trip. The variety of shops is incredible, from high-end designers to chic French labels, so it’s easy to spend a few hours here just browsing.

At some point, I’ll grab a street-side crêpe, usually with Nutella, because no day in Paris is complete without one. There’s something so simple yet magical about standing on a street corner, watching the world go by while you enjoy a warm, gooey crêpe in hand.

For my last day in Paris, I love to end the trip on a playful, lighthearted note—with a full day at Disneyland Paris. If you’re a Disney fan, this stop is absolutely magical. It’s the perfect blend of childhood nostalgia and Parisian charm, where your favorite Disney memories meet a touch of French flair.

Getting there couldn’t be easier. Just take the RER A metro line, which conveniently drops you right at the entrance gates of the park. As you step off the train, the excitement in the air is contagious—you’ll see families, couples, and Disney lovers of all ages ready to soak in the magic.

Once you’re inside, it’s time to let go of your schedule and just have fun. The park is full of rides, games, shows, and parades that bring all your favorite characters to life—from the classics like It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean to thrill rides like Big Thunder Mountain and Star Wars: Hyperspace Mountain. Everything here has that special Disney sparkle, but with a Parisian twist—from the details in the architecture to the food stands selling Nutella-filled treats instead of just churros and popcorn.

Be sure to catch one of the daily parades—they’re full of color, music, and all the beloved Disney characters dancing their way through the streets. It’s one of those moments where you can’t help but smile, no matter your age.

When it comes to food, Disneyland Paris has plenty of fun options—from themed restaurants to quick bites between rides. I always like to snack my way through the park: a Nutella-filled crepe here, some popcorn or Mickey-shaped waffles there. It’s part of the experience—simple, sweet, and totally indulgent.

And of course, no trip would be complete without picking up some Disney memorabilia. Whether it’s a pair of sparkly Minnie ears, a cute mug, or something that captures your favorite character, it’s a perfect keepsake to remember your Paris adventure with a little Disney magic.

As the day winds down and the park begins to glow under the evening lights, I like to finish my trip with dinner at the Rainforest Café, located right in Disney Village near the entrance. It’s full of nostalgia—with the jungle theme, the sounds of thunder and waterfalls, and the familiar fun atmosphere that feels so quintessential to any Downtown Disney experience. It’s the perfect, cozy way to wrap up a long, laughter-filled day.

By the time I head back to the city, I’m tired but so happy—it’s a day that always leaves me smiling. Ending a Paris trip at Disneyland feels like closing out your adventure with a bit of pure joy and wonder—a reminder that no matter how many times you visit, Paris always has a way of bringing out your inner kid.