Planning to spend 4 days in Paris and wondering how to fit it all in?
Four days is the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of the French capital without feeling completely rushed.
With a well-planned Paris itinerary, you can see world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, explore charming neighborhoods like the Latin Quarter, enjoy incredible food, and still have time to soak up the atmosphere that makes Paris so special.
After originally visiting for a short trip, I eventually moved to Paris and got to know the city far beyond the typical tourist checklist. This 4-day Paris itinerary combines the must-see sights with practical local tips to help you make the most of your time, whether it’s your first visit or a long-awaited return.
Below, you’ll find a day-by-day plan covering exactly what to do in Paris in 4 days, plus advice on timing, tickets, and how to explore the city efficiently.
But first, check out this short slideshow with the highlights of Paris
video created by Invideo.io
Paris Itinerary: 4 Days in Paris – What to See & Do
Day 1 of a 4-Day Paris Itinerary
Let’s start this itinerary with some of the city’s highlights!
1. Visit the Notre Dame
Yes, the Notre Dame has finally reopened after the devastating fire of 2019.
Many of you must have heard about the Notre Dame in the Disney movie or in Victor Hugo’s novel. Well, this gothic cathedral is one of the most visited places in Paris.
Make your way to this 12th-century church and marvel at its architectural beauty, ornate towers, and stain glass windows.
Note: visiting the Notre Dame is free, but it is recommended to reserve a (free) ticket online a day, or even just a few hours, in advance to skip the line and make sure you are able to enter during the time slot you choose. You can find more details on their official website.
2. Visit Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie
Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie are two beautiful historical sites that can’t be missed on any Paris itinerary.
The Conciergerie is a Medieval royal palace that became a revolutionary tribunal and one of the principal places of detention during the French Revolution. Its most famous prisoner was Marie-Antoinette.
The Sainte-Chapelle was intended to house precious Christian relics, including Christ’s crown of thorns, acquired by Saint Louis. It is beautiful and you just have to admire the stained glass windows here.
You can buy a combined ticket that gives you access to both of these sites. And don’t worry, you won’t regret spending your money.
Note: If you are lucky enough to be in Paris during the European Heritage Days these beautiful sites can be visited for free.
3. Spend Some Time in the 5th Arrondissement
Next up on your 4-day Paris itinerary, head towards the 5th Arrondissement.
This part of Paris is packed with outstanding Parisian cafes and shops.
Don’t forget to visit the very renowned Latin Quarter, situated on the left bank of the Seine, around the Sorbonne.
Check out some of the popular places here: Odette (a famous pastry shop), the Pantheon (an imposing church building dating back to 1790), and Shakespeare and Company (a popular bookstore).
If you love a traditional Parisian breakfast, tempting pastries, or just want to stroll around a charming, vibrant neighborhood, this is a part of Paris you shouldn’t miss.
4. Go for a Relaxing Stroll in Jardin du Luxembourg
Once you’re done exploring the 5th Arrondissement, walk towards the southern border and visit the Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens).
This is an Italian-style garden that encompasses the beautiful Luxembourg Palace. You will surely be amazed to hear that the garden has been there for 400 years and has always been open to the public.
While at Jardin du Luxembourg, walk through the amazingly manicured pathways, relax and unwind by the Medici fountain (something I still do regularly on a sunny day), and check out the vintage toy sailboats in the pond in front of the palace.
5. Have Something to Eat at Treize Bakery
After hours of exploring Paris, you might want a snack.
Stop by the wonderful Treize au Jardin bakery, located right next to the Luxembourg Gardens. Here you’ll find some of the best French Classics, with a little Southern US twist.
Have a seat on their terrace, relax, and enjoy the food! And if you happen to be here during the weekend, make sure you try their pancakes. They are to die for!
Day 2 of a 4 Days in Paris Itinerary
Of course, you can’t miss the famous Eiffel Tower when visiting Paris, so day 2 starts with that!
1. Get to the Eiffel Tower Early
Get up early (even if you’re not a morning person) and make your way to the Eiffel Tower.
Experience the beautiful sunrise out here… I promise you won’t regret getting up so early!
Tip: you can get a better view of the Eiffel Tower from the top of the Trocadero (across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower).
Unfortunately, since the Eiffel Tower is the number one thing to see in Paris for most people, it is crowded around here even early in the morning.
2. Go For a Stroll or a Picnic at Champ De Mars
Once you’re done sightseeing from Trocadero, head towards this beautiful long Champ De Mars Park, which is just on the other side of the Eiffel Tower.
This park is a famous picnic spot in Paris, mainly because of its nice open areas and mind-blowing Eiffel Tower views.
Tip: Do beware of pickpockets and souvenir hawkers while wandering around these areas.
3. Have Breakfast or a Snack at Le Petit Cler
If you did manage to get up early to catch the sunrise at the Eiffel Tower, you have probably missed breakfast. If so, the very renowned Le Petit Cler is my breakfast recommendation.
This café and restaurant is located just a few blocks from the De Mars Park.
It is such a cute, quiet place full of local Parisians. Check out their covered patio, which is the perfect, relaxed place to take a break from exploring Paris.
And if you didn’t make it out here early enough for breakfast, stop by for a snack, a coffee, lunch or even dinner.
4. Don’t Miss the Place de la Concorde
This is one of the prettiest plazas in Paris and one of many great photo spots in Paris.
Place de la Concorde is not only about wonderful architecture, gorgeous fountains, and the Luxor obelisk; it is also a place rich in history.
The Place de la Concorde is the square in Paris where Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI were put to death at the time of the French Revolution.
Make sure you spend enough time exploring this area, learning more about French History.
5. Allocate Enough Time for the Louvre
You could easily spend an entire afternoon at the Louvre. The place is that amazing!
But, if you don’t want to spend half an afternoon of your 4 days in Paris at the Louvre, there is a solution.
Visit the Louvre’s website and decide which exhibitions and what parts of the Louvre you want to see. Doing this before you get there will save you a lot of time!
And if you time it right you can watch the beautiful sunset at the Louvre pyramid.
6. Have Dinner at Crêperie Little Breizh
Once you’re done exploring the Louvre and your second day in Paris is coming to an end, head to Crêperie Little Breizh and have a delicious crepe for dinner.
This place is very popular though, so keep in mind that if you don’t get here early, it will be crowded.
Day 3 of a 4-Day Paris Itinerary
1. Start Your Day at the Palais Royal
Try to get to the Palais Royal early. This way it will be a calm and peaceful start to your third day exploring Paris.
Get your mandatory cup of coffee, and just sit back there in the quiet garden while sipping on your morning coffee.
After spending some time here, visit the stunning façade of the palace on your way to the very popular white and black columns in the courtyard.
2. Climb the Arc De Triomphe
Another mandatory site on any Paris itinerary. The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris, standing in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, surrounded by twelve busy avenues.
The Arc de Triomphe is an incredible piece of architecture that deserves all the attention it gets.
Do go up to the rooftop to enjoy the amazing panoramic views and stop halfway first to visit the history museum.
Beware of the traffic, it can get pretty crazy here!
3. Enjoy the Sunset at Sacre Coeur
If you are looking for a great sunset spot in Paris, the lawn of the Sacre Coeur is it.
The Sacre Coeur is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is the second most visited monument in Paris.
The basilica stands at the summit of the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city.
You can climb up to the dome of the Sacre Coeur for an incredible view of Paris. But, if you want to watch the sunset from the dome, get there early to secure yourself a good spot!
Day 4 of a 4-Day Paris Itinerary
This is the final day of this 4-day Paris itinerary and there are a few more things I wouldn’t want you to miss.
1. Start With a Good Breakfast at Your Local Patisserie
If you haven’t already, on your last day in Paris you definitely need to try some classic French pastries.
Find a boulangerie close to where you are staying, have a croissant, and start your last day in Paris the way the French do.
2. Visit the Musée d’Orsay
If you love French artists or if you want to admire the unique architecture of this place, Musee d’Orsay can be a good choice for your last day in Paris.
The building that houses this museum was originally a railway station that was transformed into an art gallery.
Nowadays the museum is home to amazing works by Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Renoir, and many more.
While you are here, do visit the 5th-floor clock tower for some picture-worthy views of Paris.
3. Check Out the Catacombs, if You Dare!
The Catacombs of Paris hold the remains of more than six million people in a small part of a tunnel network built to consolidate Paris’ ancient stone mines.
It was created in an attempt to find a solution for the city’s overflowing cemeteries.
Nowadays it is a somewhat strange, yet very popular tourist attraction.
Where to Stay for 4 Days in Paris
Choosing the right neighborhood can make a huge difference when you only have 4 days in Paris. The city is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts), each with its own personality.
For first-time visitors, these areas work especially well:
1st Arrondissement (Louvre area)
If you want to be right in the center of everything, this is ideal. You’ll be within walking distance of the Louvre Museum, the Seine, and the Tuileries Garden. It’s one of the most convenient (and more expensive) areas.
Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissements)
Charming streets, great restaurants, boutiques, and historic architecture. Central but with more personality than the very tourist-heavy areas.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement)
Classic Paris atmosphere, beautiful cafés, and easy access to the Luxembourg Gardens. A great balance between lively and elegant.
Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
Romantic and village-like, near the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. It’s slightly less central, but perfect if you want charm and views.
If your budget allows, prioritize being close to a Metro station. It will save you time every single day.
Tips For Getting Around Paris
Paris is very walkable, but you’ll still rely on public transport to move efficiently between neighborhoods.
The Metro is fast, affordable, and easy to use. For a 4-day stay, the simplest option is using the Île-de-France Mobilités app or buying a Navigo Easy pass and loading it with single tickets or a multi-day travel pass. You can also buy paper tickets, but the app or rechargeable card are more convenient.
Also, expect to walk a lot in Paris. If you follow my itinerary, you’ll easily walk over 15,000 steps per day.
Avoid renting a car. Parking is limited, and traffic can be frustrating. For 4 days in Paris, public transport and walking are far easier.
I also occasionally use Uber. It’s obviously not the cheapest option, but especially in the evening or on a rainy day, it’s convenient.
FAQ: 4 Days in Paris
Is 4 Days in Paris Enough?
Yes. 4 days is an excellent amount of time for a first visit.
You can see all the major landmarks, explore a few neighborhoods properly, visit two museums, and still enjoy relaxed meals and café breaks without constantly rushing.
Should I Buy Tickets in Advance?
Absolutely. Book timed-entry tickets in advance for the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Catacombs of Paris. These regularly sell out, especially in high season.
Is the Paris Museum Pass Worth It?
The Museum Pass can be worth it if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions within 2–6 days, especially the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Musée d’Orsay.
If you only plan to visit one or two museums, individual tickets may be cheaper.
What is the Best Time to Visit Paris?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are ideal. The weather is pleasant, and crowds are slightly lower than peak summer.
July and August are busy but lively, while winter is quieter and more affordable. I actually love walking around Paris in February or March, when the streets are still quieter. But, you have to be lucky with the weather that time of year.
I hope you enjoyed my 4-day itinerary and will have a great time exploring this beautiful city!
And, if you have more time, the beautiful Champagne region is only about an hour from Paris. So it makes a perfect short trip! This article about visiting the Champagne region gives you all the information you need.
Also Read:
- Interview With an Expat About Life in Paris
- What to See & Do in Montpellier, France
- How to Find the Cheapest Flights
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