Planning your 4 days in Paris getaway and feeling a bit overwhelmed? I know how tricky it can be to craft the perfect itinerary.

You want to catch all the famous spots, discover some secret corners, and, of course, dive into the fantastic food scene. It’s quite a puzzle to put all these pieces together, especially if you’re not familiar with the city yet.

You’ve landed in just the right place! As a Paris insider, I’ve crafted the ultimate 4-day itinerary for you, packed with everything needed for a fabulous trip. This plan is your gateway to experiencing the best of Paris in a short but memorable stay.

Here’s a breakdown of what this article covers:

  • 4 Days in Paris Itinerary
  • Comprehensive Map with Key Destinations
  • Culinary Recommendations
  • Hotel suggestions perfectly in line with this itinerary
  • Local Insights and Travel Suggestions
Lena Profile Pic Salut from Paris

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

Restaurant in Paris with Haussmann Buildings in the background
Just a typical street in Paris

Paris in 4 Days: Everything you need to know

Before we jump into the itinerary for 4 days in Paris, let’s first address some common pitfalls that many travelers to Paris encounter. I’m placing this crucial information upfront so it’s not missed.

Paris, renowned for its enchanting allure and stunning sights, is a great choice for short getaways. In my Facebook group (which you’re welcome to join here for free), I often come across travelers sharing experiences of scams, miscommunications, feelings of being taken advantage of, or running into unexpected situations.

The best way to sidestep these issues and ensure a fantastic trip is to be aware of the typical mistakes tourists make in Paris before you set off on your journey!

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Common Scams and Pitfalls to Avoid

To keep this section concise, I’ve included links to additional resources that will be useful as you prepare for your trip.

  • Stay Alert for Scams: Be sure to read our article on the most frequent scams in Paris and learn how to safeguard yourself. (you find it here: Scams in Paris here)
  • Advance Booking for the Eiffel Tower: The Eiffel Tower often gets fully booked weeks ahead. Secure your tickets early, like you can do here.
  • Keep Your Metro Ticket: Always retain your metro ticket until the end of your journey. Failure to present it upon inspection can lead to fines, and excuses won’t help. Also, check out our guide to navigating the Paris Metro.
  • Greet with ‘Bonjour’: Always start interactions (in restaurants, shops, or with tour guides) with a ‘Bonjour’. Many perceive the French as unfriendly, without realizing the importance of this polite greeting in French culture.
  • Saving Money in Paris: For tips on enjoying Paris on a budget, take a look at our Paris Budget Guide.
The Eiffel Tower as seen from the Galeries Lafayette: one of the stops on your 4 days paris itinerary.
The Eiffel Tower as seen from the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette

Your Perfect Four Days in Paris Itinerary

So, here’s the 4 days Paris itinerary you’ve been waiting for. Don’t forget to also look at my hotel suggestions, which you’ll find right after the itinerary.

✦ Day 1 – Paris Itinerary

You have arrived, you are in Paris! Bienvenue! Today, you are going to check off a sightseeing tour, the Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triomphe, and the Marais from your bucket list.

Sightseeing Bus Tour (Morning)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

Begin your first day in Paris at a leisurely pace: opt for a classic bus sightseeing tour.

It’s an ideal way to ease travel weariness and jetlag. Just sit back, unwind, and soak in your initial impressions of Paris.

A bus tour’s big plus is its efficiency – you’ll get a snapshot of the city in a short time. This overview eases any pressure to see ‘everything’ in the next four days. Additionally, the audio guide offers a wealth of information, more than you might gather on a guided walk.

best things to do with teens in paris: a bus tour
Open Tour is called TootBus in 2024

The Eiffel Tower (Lunch / Early Afternoon)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

No Paris trip is truly complete without seeing its most iconic symbol, the Eiffel Tower. To bypass long lines and secure your spot, it’s wise to book your tickets well in advance.

The Eiffel Tower tickets often sell out weeks ahead, especially if you are traveling over the weekend.

You have the option to book directly through the Eiffel Tower’s official website or through a ticket provider like Get Your Guide. I find Get Your Guide more convenient – their tickets tend to be available on shorter notice, and they offer full refunds up to 24 hours before.

The Eiffel Tower as seen from Rive Droite near the Trocadero
One of the Highlight of 4 Days in Paris – the Eiffel Tower

Lunch by the Eiffel Tower

Looking for a memorable lunch spot near the Eiffel Tower? How about dining right on the tower itself? On its first floor, you’ll find the charming Madame Brasserie.

The place is run by the celebrated chef Thierry Marx, a big name in France’s culinary scene. He’s not just a Michelin Star recipient for his past ventures, but also known for his role as a judge on ‘Top Chef’. These are just a few feathers in his cap.

Lunch at Madame Brasserie is a treat, and surprisingly, it won’t completely break the bank. It offers an affordable yet exquisite 3-course menu, coupled with skip-the-line access to the 1st floor and a view that’s nothing short of breathtaking.

Curious to see if they’re available during your visit? Take a look at their availability for your travel dates right here.

Budget Lunch Around the Eiffel Tower

If you’re on the hunt for a more budget-friendly lunch choice, I’d suggest Galettes. Absolutely, I’m a big fan of this French specialty, typical of the Bretagne (Brittany) region.

Galette with ham, Cheese and an egg on top
Typical French Galette – affordable and yummy

Galettes are these delicious, hearty crêpes made from buckwheat flour, and they come with various fillings like cheese, ham, or a fried egg. It’s traditional to pair them with a cup of cider, and then follow up with a sweet crêpe for dessert. Yum!

There are a few good Crêperies nearby the Eiffel Tower. For example, Les Frères Bretons. (You can book a table online with TheFork and save €10 on your bill with my code 83FDC2B7)

Arc de Triomphe (Afternoon)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

A mere 25-minute walk or a quick metro hop from the Eiffel Tower takes you to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. This grand monument, a symbol of national pride, was commissioned by Napoleon to honor French war achievements.

Standing at the head of the Champs-Élysées, it’s one of the largest arches globally, offering a stunning view of Paris from above.

The Arc de Triomphe is more than just a landmark; it’s a pivotal part of Paris’ rich tapestry. Interested in its intriguing story? Dive into our article with 35 captivating facts about the Arc de Triomphe.

The Arc de Triomphe - a must-see for a 4 days trip to Paris! A highlight on every 4 days in Paris itinerary
The Arc de Triomphe: a must-see for a 4 days trip to Paris!

The Arc de Triomphe sits on a line with the Place de la Concorde on one side and the modern Arc de la Défense on the other, creating a striking scene for photography enthusiasts.

But, when you’re heading to visit the Arc de Triomphe, you might ponder the best way to reach it. This iconic structure is perched right in the middle of Paris’ bustling Place Charles de Gaulle, also known as Étoile (Star), surrounded by a gigantic roundabout.

A word of advice: don’t try to cross the street above ground. There are underground walkways designed for safe crossings!

If you are holding a Paris All-Inclusive Pass, admission to the Arc de Triomphe is free. Otherwise, you need to grab a ticket at the booth to visit the Arc de Triomphe. The lines are generally short, so it shouldn’t take too long. Additionally, you can also prepurchase your ticket here.

Marais in Paris, rainbow umbrellas in Paris
The Marais in Paris

Le Marais (Later Afternoon / Evening)

Once you’ve marveled at the panoramic views of Paris and the whirl of traffic encircling the Arc de Triomphe, hop on Metro Line 1 to Hôtel de Ville, a must-visit for your “what to do in Paris in 4 days” list.

If time’s on your side, consider a leisurely walk down the Champs Élysée towards the Hôtel de Ville, Paris’ Town Hall. It’s a total of 5 km, but you can always shorten the journey by catching the Metro Line 1 at any point.

At Hôtel de Ville, begin your exploration of the Marais. This area was once the aristocratic district of Paris pre-French Revolution. Today, it’s celebrated for housing one of the largest Jewish communities in Paris and being a hub for LGTB culture.

Roaming the Marais is a delight – its cobbled alleys, quaint designer boutiques, vintage shops, and a plethora of cafes and bars make it an enchanting place to wander and explore, perfect for adding to your 4-day Paris itinerary.

Marais in Paris with cherry blossoms and pedestrian street
The Marais in Paris

Dinner in the Marais

The Marais is one of the areas of Paris that is known for its bars and restaurants. Being the Jewish quarter of Paris, it’s not surprising that it’s the go-to area if you want to eat a superb Falafel.

“L’As du Fallafel” is probably the most famous food stall within the area, and it’s known to be the favorite Falafel place of Lenny Kravitz. If you’re up for something casual, you really don’t want to miss this place. You can either eat in the restaurant or get a sandwich to take away.

Do you prefer to enjoy some classic French food in a cozy Parisian restaurant? No problem! Have dinner at the Camille and try typical french cuisine with snails (they have other starters, too, no worries), Magret de Canard, and a yummy Crème brûlée.

Alternatively, pick one of these restaurants:

It’s a good idea to reserve a table beforehand: Parisian restaurants can get quite crowded, and there’s no guarantee you’ll get a table if you just drop in.

Tip: book a table online with TheFork and save €10 on your bill with my code 83FDC2B7.

The Pyramid of the Louvre

✦ Day 2 of 4 Days in Paris

Following a restful night, kick off your day in true French style: enjoy a coffee paired with a croissant (or a baguette with jam and butter) at a local café. And if you’re watching your budget, opt to stay at the bar – it’s pricier to sit down!

Don’t miss our Paris Mistake post to avoid the most popular tourist traps and silly Paris mistakes!

The Louvre (Morning)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

Ready to start your day? Head to the Louvre. Without a Paris Pass, it’s wise to get a skip-the-line ticket beforehand and dive straight into the exhibits. But if you have a Paris Pass, you’re all set.

Just make sure to reserve a time slot for your visit on the Louvre Website. (I explain this point a bit further down)

Truth be told, you could spend all four days of your Paris trip in the Louvre and still not see everything. That’s why I highly recommend the official audio guide. It’s not just informative about the exhibits, but the best part are the curated tours.

You might also be interested in these articles:

The “masterpieces” tour was a personal favorite. You can download it on your mobile device or rent a Nintendo DS at the Louvre for €5.

I’m not an art buff myself and don’t know much about it, but the audio guide significantly enhanced my Louvre experience. It helped me understand and appreciate what I was seeing!

The Pyramide of the Louvre by Night
The Louvre Pyramide by Night
How to enter the Louvre as fast as possible?

To get into the Louvre as fast as possible, avoid the entrance through the pyramid in the courtyard. The entrance through the shopping mall “Carrousel du Louvre” is always less frequented.

Just know that regardless of which ticket you purchased, you always have to go through security checks.

I got the Paris All-Inclusive Pass. How do I reserve my Louvre ticket?

Even if you hold the Paris pass and won’t have to pay for admission, you need to reserve your time slot in advance. It’s pretty easy, though, and you can reserve your timed slot through this link and pick the free entrance option.

Opening times of the Louvre

Daily (except Tuesdays): 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Wednesday, Friday: 9 a.m.–9:45 p.m.

Closed on Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, and December 25

Rooms begin closing 30 minutes before museum closing time.

Le Nemours - lunch and coffee spot just next to the Louvre
Le Nemours – lunch and coffee spot just next to the Louvre

Lunch near the Louvre

After spending the morning enjoying breathtaking art at the Louvre, it’s best to have lunch nearby. The Louvre is very centrally located in a very busy and rather expensive area of Paris.

If you’re not on a shoestring budget, you’ll find easily a restaurant to have lunch and to rest a little.

Otherwise, or if you want to plan ahead, just take a look at The Fork. You can book the restaurants directly online and often get even 20% or more off your bill. And if not, you can always use my code 83FDC2B7 for a €10 reductions.

My tip: Have Lunch at Baguett’Café. It’s a quite hip brunch and lunch place with delicious pancakes and French toast. It is a bit pricey though for what it is, and the portions are rather small.

Lunch near the Louvre
savory pancakes at Baguett’ Café

Sainte-Chapelle (Afternoon)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

After exploring one of Paris’ top attractions and savoring a delicious lunch, your next stop should be the stunning Sainte Chapelle. This Gothic chapel stands as one of the most awe-inspiring structures in the city and is a must-see in Paris in 4 days.

Sainte Chapelle is known for its remarkable stained-glass windows made in the 13th century. These windows, encompassing 15 large panels and a rose window, intricately depict various biblical scenes.

The way light filters through the vibrant colors and detailed designs creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, turning the chapel into a spectacle of light and color. Fingers crossed you’re visiting on a sunny day, it’s purely magical.

If you have a Paris All-Inclusive Pass, you’ll be glad to know the entrance is included. If not, it’s a good idea to get your ticket in advance here.

Sainte Chapelle in Paris
Sainte Chapelle is on your Paris in four days itinerary

Notre Dame (Afternoon)

Now’s the perfect time for a leisurely stroll. Just a short walk from Sainte Chapelle, you’ll find the renowned Notre Dame Cathedral. While the 2019 incident means you can’t go inside currently, the exterior still makes for a great photo opportunity.

The area around the cathedral is quite restricted, but you can still find some excellent spots for pictures. Try capturing it from one of the nearby bridges, or get a unique view from the upper-floor window of the famous English bookstore in Paris, Shakespeare & Company.

My Tip: Right next to the bookstore, you find the pastry shop Odette. They have delicious choux pastry, filled with sweet and fruity creams.

Traveling to Paris alone - what to do in Paris alone
The filled puff pastry from Odette belonging on every Paris bucket list

From Notre Dame, make your way across one of the bridges connecting Île-de-la-Cité to the left bank of the Seine. The vicinity of the St. Michel fountain serves as an ideal spot to begin exploring central Paris and the Latin Quarter at a pace that suits you.

The Latin Quarter: A highlight in any Paris in 4 days itinerary

The Latin Quarter is an excellent area to cover some essential “must-see in Paris in 4 days” locations. The map below will provide you with a glimpse of the many sights you can enjoy simply by meandering through the Latin Quarter.

A standout spot in the Latin Quarter is the Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s not only one of Paris’ largest parks but also among its most iconic. It’s the perfect place to relax, whether that’s sitting back in one of the green chairs with a good book or enjoying a sandwich from a nearby bakery.

The Jardin du Luxembourg is also an ideal spot for a game of Pétanque. This traditional French boule game might not be fast ball game, but it certainly can get heated. It’s equally fun to watch or join in.

And here’s a fun fact: within the Jardin, you’ll find beehives and even a Statue of Liberty replica!

The Panthéon (Afternoon)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

Good to know: if you want to visit the inside of the Pantheon, you better head there right after Sainte-Chapelle and visit the rest of the Latin quarter afterward. Last access is at 17:15.


A short stroll from Jardin du Luxembourg takes you to the magnificent Panthéon. Perched on Mount Sainte-Geneviève, its dome is visible across the city, marking a significant point in the Parisian skyline.

More than just a temple, the Panthéon serves as a mausoleum for some of France’s most illustrious citizens, including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Marie Curie. Paris Pass holders enjoy free entry, while others can secure their tickets here.

Pantheon View Point in Paris, don't wonder what to do in paris for 4 days
Paris View Point: the Panthéon
Dinner in the Latin Quarter

While they might seem appealing and budget-friendly, it’s better to skip the quaint, attractive restaurants near St. Michel. The eateries along Rue de la Harpe and Rue de la Huchette cater primarily to tourists.

They’re not utterly terrible, but for a little extra, you can find much better quality food just a few streets away, where the culinary experience is more authentic and satisfying. 4 Days in Paris is just too short for mediocre food.

Read more about popular Paris mistakes and silly tourist traps here!

Evening: Dinner at Rue Mouffetard

Just a stone’s throw from St. Michel, Rue Mouffetard in the Latin Quarter is an excellent spot for dining out. This pedestrian street is steeped in history, being one of Paris’ oldest roads, dating back to Roman times.

Nestled on the hill of Sainte-Geneviève, Rue Mouffetard was left unchanged by Baron Haussmann, the architect behind the iconic Haussmann buildings that shape much of Paris. This has preserved its old-world charm, complete with cobbled streets and buildings that feel almost medieval, something you shouldn’t miss if you are in Paris for 4 days.

Today, Rue Mouffetard is celebrated for its daily market and array of specialty shops. A perfect place to pick up French delicacies and gourmet treats to take home – think cheeses, cold cuts, wines, pastries, and more. It’s a true treasure trove for food lovers.

It’s a favorite spot among Parisians for dining out or enjoying a drink, offering something for every taste

My restaurant recommendations in the Latin Quarter are:

Rue Mouffetard is a hidden gem of Paris that not many people know. It's in the Latin quarter and a pedestrian street
Rue Mouffetard with a lovely Space Invader on the right

✦ Day 3 – Paris Itinerary

Start your day with the essential Parisian breakfast of a croissant and café, and then head out to visit the Musée d’Orsay.

Musée d’Orsay (Morning)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

The Musée d’Orsay is renowned for its impressive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces, making it a top pick for things to do in Paris in 4 days. Get ready to admire works by Monet, Renoir, Sezane, and van Gogh.

Personally, I also found the replica of Rodin’s Gate to Hell most impressive.

But it’s not just the art work that’s worth seeing at the Musée d’Orsay. The building itself is a gem, offering a fantastic photo spot. From the old clock in this former railway station, you can get a unique view of the Louvre.

If you have a Paris Pass, you can enter the Musée d’Orsay for free. If not, you can buy your entrance ticket here.

Musee d'Orsay inside, former train station hall
Musée d’Orsay with the former train stations clock

Opening times of the Musée d’Orsay

Daily (except Mondays): 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m. (room clearing starts at 5:15 pm)
Thursdays: 9:30 a.m.–9:45 p.m. (room clearing starts at 9:15 pm)

Closed on Mondays, May 1, and December 25

Lunch at the Musée d’Orsay

To make the most of your time, consider having lunch at the Musée d’Orsay. They offer four different lunching options, ranging from upscale gastronomy restaurants to snack bars. hence, more or less suitable for all budgets.

Alternatively, you can grab a sandwich from a nearby bakery or even buy one in the morning. It’s your cheapest option.

Cruise on the River Seine (Early Afternoon)

(included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

After enjoying some fabulous art head over to the Seine and take a cruise on the Seine. This river cruise, which is covered by the Paris Pass, opens up an entirely different perspective on Paris for you.

If you don’t have a Paris Pass, you can reserve your spot on a Seine riverboat here.

A Seine river cruise is a lovely way for you to take in the beautiful views of Paris. You’ll sail past the Eiffel Tower, the Grand, and the Petit Palais, the Louvre, Notre Dame, Pont Neuf, and Pont Alexandre III, among other sights.

Don’t worry if the weather isn’t ideal; you can sit inside and still admire Paris through the panoramic windows.

If you’re traveling to Paris with kids, a river cruise is sure to be an enjoyable and memorable experience for them. My kids, even though native Parisians, love it.

what to do in Paris for 4 days? definitely a Seine River Cruise!
A Seine river cruise is a laid-back way to see Paris

Cemetery Père Lachaise (Afternoon)

(a walking tour of the Cemetery is included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

For the afternoon, let’s venture a bit beyond the city center – it’s just a quick metro ride away. Père Lachaise Cemetery, one of Paris’ oldest and largest cemeteries, offers a truly unique atmosphere.

But there’s more to it than just its ambiance. The list of famous figures resting here is remarkable: Chopin, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Molière, and many others.

At each entrance, you’ll find maps pinpointing the exact locations of these notable graves. It’s a good idea to snap a photo of the map on your phone to help navigate the sprawling grounds. On busy weekend days, you might even be greeted by an employee who will provide you with a free paper map.

And while looking for the famous graves, don’t miss the other intriguing tombs – they range from slightly eerie to beautifully solemn, adding to the cemetery’s rich complexity.

the cemetery pere lachaise with it's cobblestone lanes and old graves
Cemetery Père Lachaise

By the way, did you already watch the latest season of the Lupin Series on Netflix? The creepy graveyard scene was produced here, on the Père Lachaise Cemetery.

Dinner around the Père Lachaise Cemetery

Although Père Lachaise Cemetery is a bit outside my usual area, I can still recommend two restaurants nearby. I’ve dined/lunched at both and truly enjoyed the experience.

Le Sot l’Y Laisse (for Lunch)

If you are lucky, you might even get a table at Septime. The most affordable Michelin Star Restaurant in Paris. But don’t get your hopes up too high, I have been trying to get a table since January 2023.

Discover Paris’ Bar Scene (Evening)

After your trip to Père Lachaise, head to a vibrant area for an evening out, located between Voltaire, Bastille, and République. It’s an easy walk from Père Lachaise.

This neighborhood offers a wide array of bar and nightlife options. You’ll find everything from cozy cocktail bars and local breweries to speakeasies and music-focused spots, including metal and rock bars. My personal favorites include:

  • Fréquence Great Cocktails, Snacks & Music
  • Fauve Parisian Brewery with a large choice on tab
  • Mezcaleria Speakeasy bar specialized on Cocktails & Mezcal
  • Mobster Bar Prohibition Style Speakeasy Bar

For more options and my absolute favorites when it comes to cocktails and speakeasy bars, take a look at these posts. It’s curated lists of favorites of my husband and me:

Cocktails served in one of my favorite speakeasy bars: Rehab

✦ Day 4 – Paris Itinerary

On your final day in the enchanting city of Paris, a visit to Montmartre is a must.

My Tip: If you are a holder of the Paris All-Inclusive Pass, start your day at the famous restaurant La Mère Catherine for a free hot drink and Macarons for breakfast. Or, if you want to start boozy, head to Au Cadet de Gascogne for free Champagne and Pastries. (or both!)


Historically, Montmartre was the heart of the French art scene. It’s where many renowned artists, including Monet, van Gogh, and Picasso, spent considerable time. While those days have passed, Montmartre retains its artistic essence. This isn’t just because of the artists painting around Place de Tertre or the numerous galleries.

However, Montmartre has become quite touristy, now home to more souvenir shops than art galleries. But there’s a way to experience a more authentic side of Montmartre: visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

La Maison Rose - Montmartre
La Maison Rose – Montmartre

Montmartre and the Sacre Cœur (Morning)

(a Montmarte walking tour is included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass)

That’s precisely when your Montmartre adventure should begin: as early as possible, ideally before 10:00 a.m. This is before the souvenir shops open and before tourist buses start flocking to this quaint micro-arrondissement in Paris’s north.

The charming cobblestone streets, the local painters, the breathtaking view over Paris, and of course, the Sacré-Cœur… these are experiences you won’t want to miss. And they’re twice as magical when you can enjoy them without the throngs of other visitors.

For your visit to Montmartre, there’s no need for a rigid plan. The best way to explore is to meander slowly up the hill, taking as many side streets as you wish. Sure, you could head straight to the Sacré-Cœur and arrive in about five minutes, but the real magic of Montmartre lies in its detours.

You’ll stumble upon charming cafés, quaint boutiques, vibrant street art, galleries, unique architecture, and many hidden gems.

Montmartre has many stairs. On the left you see the Funiculair de Montmartre
Montmartre is located on a hill. On the left: the Funiculair de Montmartre

Some Montmartre highlights you shouldn’t miss include:

  • Le mur des je t’aimes
  • La Maison Rose
  • The two remaining windmills
  • The bookstore and café at the Halle Saint Pierre
  • Le Passe-Muraille
  • The Montmartre Museum (I strongly recommend this one)

If you wish, you can travel the last bit up the hill by using The Montmartre Funicular. This train requires a regular Metro ticket.

Tip: Don’t buy a ticket from the guys who are offering cheap tickets. They are a scam.

I recommend descending from Montmartre via the quaint streets and steep stairs located behind the Sacré-Cœur. While the front of the basilica is bustling and touristy, the backside presents a stark contrast: it’s relaxed, quiet, and has an almost offbeat charm.

This area is less frequented by visitors, making it a worthwhile part of Montmartre to explore for a more authentic experience.

Carousel Montmartre with Sacre Coeur
The Sacre Cœur on top of Montmartre

Lunch in Montmartre

Montmartre is brimming with lunch options, making it a delightful dilemma to choose where to eat. I, personally, recommend Maison Rose. Despite its touristy reputation and location, I was pleasantly surprised: excellent food, and friendly, accommodating service.

They also offer vegan and vegetarian options. Just remember to book in advance, especially in high season.

Another great choice in Montmartre is Bouillon Pigalle. If you’re looking to savor traditional French cuisine without spending a lot, this is the place to go. It’s a popular spot, known for its authentic dishes and inviting atmosphere.

They don’t take reservations and you might have to queue, but eating in a Bouillon is an experience you don’t want to miss.

If you don’t know what a Bouillon Restaurant is, read my Bouillon article here and learn why it is so special.

If you’re not hungry yet, next to Opéra Garnier lies the Japanese Quarter of Paris, with some of the best Ramen in town.

Maison Rose Restaurant
Lunch at the Maison Rose

Galeries Lafayette (Afternoon)

The next point on your ultimate 4 day in Paris itinerary are the magnificent Galeries Lafayette.

From Montmartre, the Galeries Lafayette is quite accessible. You have the option to walk – it’s about a 30-minute journey from the Sacré-Cœur – or, for a quicker route, you can catch the next Metro and be there in just a few minutes.

The Galeries Lafayette is renowned as a shopping paradise in Paris. If you’re looking to purchase perfume, makeup, a Longchamp handbag, or designer fashion, this is the place to be.

But even if (high-end) shopping isn’t on your Paris agenda, don’t skip a visit to the Galeries Lafayette. The store features an incredible rooftop terrace that’s free to access and offers a stunning view over Paris – a must-see for any visitor!

My Tip: A few months ago, I was lucky enough and joined this Macaron Baking Class in the Galeries Lafayette. It was a 90-min course that fits perfectly in tight schedules. And as a plus, with the Paris All-Inclusive Pass, the workshop is free.

view from the Lafayette over the Opéra Garnier
Opèra Garnier seen from the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette

Opéra Garnier (Afternoon)

Right next to the Galeries Lafayette, you’ll find the Opéra Garnier. Constructed during the era of Napoleon III, the Opéra Garnier is also known as the Palais Garnier, a nod to its extravagant opulence.

This 19th-century neo-baroque building boasts one of the most stunning interiors in Paris. It has been the inspiration for numerous plays, including the famous “Phantom of the Opera!”

If you have an hour or 2 to spare, do visit. It’s remarkable! The tickets are, for once, not included in the Paris Pass, but you can buy them here.

Secret Covered Passages (Late Afternoon/ Evening)

Just a short distance from Galeries Lafayette, you can explore some of the most charming covered passages in Paris.

Start with Passage Choiseul, then wander through the picturesque Galerie Vivienne. From there, you can almost seamlessly transition to Passage de Panoramas, followed by Passage Jouffroy, and finally, Passage Verdeau.

Passage Jouffroy
Passage Jouffroy

These passages are remnants of the 18th century, a time when over 180 covered arcades were built to ensure the shopping enjoyment of the wealthy, even in rainy weather.

Today, only about 20 of these historical arcades remain, each offering a unique glimpse into Parisian history and architecture.

And they are still a lovely spot to shop. Especially the Passage Jouffroy has some lovely souvenir shops.

My Tip: If it’s time for a break or an early evening drink, Danico in the Galerie Vivienne is a top address. Elected as one of the best 100 bars in the world, you find it hidden behind the Italian restaurant Daroco. (Which I can warmly recommend as well).

Daroco Italian Restaurant Paris in the Galerie Vivienne
Daroco and Danico in the Galerie Vivienne

Day 4: Evening Entertainment

For your final evening in Paris, here are a few suggestions to make it memorable and end your vacation on a high note.

One option is Olivier Giraud’s comedy show, “How To Become A Parisian in One Hour?” While I haven’t seen it myself yet, I plan to do so soon. It comes highly recommended, with an impressive 4.9-star rating on Google Reviews.

Plus, it’s included in the Paris All-Inclusive Pass – well, who could have guessed that?

Another great final for your four days in Paris France is to experience a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge. If this is what you opt in for, then absolutely make sure to reserve your tickets well in advance. On popular nights, it’s always sold out. You can check their availabilities here.

Moulin Rouge as a final of this Paris in four days itinerary
Moulin Rouge as a final of this Paris in four days itinerary

Or, you could simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautifully lit streets of Paris at night.

However, my personal favorite is to embark on a night sightseeing tour in a classic CV2 car – it’s a truly unique way to see the city’s highlights under the stars and a worthy final. Check rates and schedules here.

Map of your Paris 4 Days Itinerary

Want to know where you’ll be going to? Check the map below to see your destinations per day. You can click on each star to know more about the landmark, or click the little square in the upper right to see the map on full screen.

⊗ – Day 1    ⊗ – Day 2

⊗ – Day 3    ⊗ – Day 4

4 Days in Paris: Where to stay?

Paris can be quite costly, especially when it comes to finding a place to stay. Yet, the city’s compact size is a plus. Its efficient public transport system allows for quick and easy travel throughout the city, irrespective of your accommodation’s location.

Rest assured, if your accommodation is within Paris’s city limits, there will be a Metro station conveniently close.

However, to make the utter most of your four days in Paris, France, I suggest you stay as central as possible. Lovely areas in this regard are the Quartier Latin, Opéra (more budget friendly) and of course the Marais.

Below, you find a short list of great hotels in Paris, that you can book without thinking twice. If they aren’t what you’re looking for, take a look at my Paris hotel guides for more options.

Paris Hotel Picks for Every Budget

#1 Top Budget PIck

Ibis Hotels Grands Boulevards

  • perfect location near Opéra
  • family rooms & modern design
  • free wifi & AirCon
#1 Boutique Hotel

Les Jardins du Luxembourg

  • perfect location in Quartier Latin
  • cozy and stylish rooms
  • free wifi & AirCon
#Top Louvre Location
eines der beste hotels paris zentrum: Ducs de Bourgogne ist ein tolles Boutique Hotel in Paris

Hôtel Ducs de Bougogne

  • Dream location Rue de Rivoli
  • unique boutique Hotel
  • free wifi & AirCon

Voilà. That’s my suggestion on how you could spend 4 days in Paris without missing a thing. Even though Paris in 4 days is not the longest vacation, it allows you enough time to explore the most important sights and have a wonderful time. Bon Voyage!

à bientôt,

Lena Paristipps

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

Planning, Crochet & Food and Drinks

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