Complete guide to Things to do in Paris with tips

Ultimate Paris Guide: An All-in-One Itinerary Including Routes, Transport, Budget, and Accommodation

Planning a trip to Paris but feeling overwhelmed about where to start? In this post, we propose an easy-to-follow 3-night, 4-day itinerary focusing on top Paris attractions, with details on route planning, transport, ticket budgets, dining costs, and accommodation tips. Exploring Paris isn’t just about visiting iconic spots, timing and reservations are crucial too. We’ll prioritize local transport tips and must-see spots that offer great satisfaction for the time spent. At the end of this post, you’ll find links to flights, accommodations, airport transfers, activities, and discount codes for easy trip planning.

Pre-Trip Preparations

Paris weather can be unpredictable throughout the day. Light outerwear, an umbrella or waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes are essential. Bring a multi-adapter (European Type C), a power bank, and a simple first-aid kit for a smoother time exploring the city and its museums. The more you experience Paris, the more you’ll feel the need for that power bank.

If you aim to travel light, consider compression packs, ultra-light umbrellas, and spare charging cables. Drafting a checklist before departure can help minimize incidental spending on-site.

Prepare Your Travel Essentials

Transport Overview

Direct flights from Incheon to Paris often depart late at night and arrive early morning, while connecting flights can vary greatly in price. During peak seasons, it’s wise to book 2–3 months in advance, whereas, during the off-season, you might find good deals 1–2 months ahead. Airfares often fluctuate by the day and time even for the same route, so keeping flexibility in your schedule can help manage your budget.

Book Lowest Airfare Deals

Airport Transfer

From Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport to central Paris, options include the RER B train (airport-city express train), limousine buses, official taxis, and pre-booked transfer services.

RER B: Takes about 40–50 minutes to the city. The fare is usually under 20,000 KRW (subject to change with exchange rates), making it an economical choice.
Official Taxis: Operate on a fixed rate to central Paris, roughly ranging from 80,000 to 90,000 KRW. It’s convenient for late nights or when carrying a lot of luggage.
Pre-booked Pickup: You can meet the driver directly at the arrival gate, which eases the travel burden, especially for first-timers, families, or those with heavy luggage.

Book Airport Pickup

Tip

Connect to a local SIM, eSIM, or pocket WiFi immediately upon arrival to easily navigate transfers and walking routes using transport apps (RATP Paris, Google Maps). For your first day, plan an itinerary considering your condition to avoid overexertion.

City Transport

Paris’s extensive metro and bus lines make most attractions accessible via public transport. Single trip tickets are roughly priced around 3,000 KRW, while carnet (10 ride pass) or day/week passes efficiency vary according to your schedule. For short stays, a recharge Navigo Easy card is a convenient way to add tickets. Contactless payments via Google or Apple Pay are also supported at some stations.

Note

During rush hours (commute times), trains can be crowded, posing a greater risk of pickpocketing. Keep your backpack in front of you and avoid using your phone in your hands.

Itinerary Overview

The following itinerary is tailored for first-time visitors, balancing iconic spots in Paris. We’ve designed it to avoid overloading a day with too much art, architecture, walking, or night scenes, considering energy levels and transit times.

Day 1: Île de la Cité·Notre-Dame Cathedral – Sainte-Chapelle – Latin Quarter – Seine River Cruise
Day 2: Louvre Museum – Tuileries Garden – Musée d’Orsay – Eiffel Tower/Trocadéro Night View
Day 3: Montmartre – Le Marais – Place des Vosges – Canal Saint-Martin
Bonus: Half or full-day Versailles tour, cooking/wine classes, and local experiences

Île de la Cité

As one of Paris’s starting points, Île de la Cité retains traces of the city’s history, religion, and justice. Notre-Dame Cathedral, heavily damaged by the 2019 fire, will reopen at the end of 2024, reclaiming its symbolic place in Paris. Strolling the inner streets and bridges while listening to the Seine river’s waves and street music lets you feel the rhythm of Paris.

Location: 4th arrondissement (Île de la Cité), near Cité and Saint-Michel Notre-Dame metro stations
Visitor Info: Security checks are required for entry, and there may be waiting times.
Budget: Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but the tower/special exhibits may have fees (around tens of thousands of KRW, varying by season/program).

Recommendation

The stone carvings and façade details on the cathedral exterior photograph well in the soft morning light. Around 9–10 AM is ideal.

Sainte-Chapelle

Known as the jewel of Gothic architecture, Sainte-Chapelle features stunning stained glass windows. During daylight hours, the glass fills the space with spectacular colors. “Light” is the theme here, making it a must-see in Paris.

Location: 1 Boulevard du Palais, enter after level 1 security checks
Visit Duration: 30–60 minutes
Entrance Fee: Approximately 20,000–30,000 KRW (varies by season/exchange rates)

Note

Due to long security lines, online pre-booking or visiting early can reduce waiting times.

Latin Quarter

Centered around Sorbonne University, the Latin Quarter is full of bookstores, cafes, and affordable dining options, perfect for strolls and lunches. Enjoy crepes, falafel, or a simple brunch, and browse used bookstores and stationery shops for fun finds.

Meal Budget: Sandwiches/crepes 8,000–15,000 KRW, basic brunch 15,000–30,000 KRW
Tip: If the menu lists a ‘set menu’ at the bottom, go for it for cost-efficiency at lunchtime.

Seine River Cruise

Evening cruises offer the most efficient way to see Paris’s night scenery. As the boat connects the Eiffel Tower, Orsay Museum, City Hall, and the Louvre from the water, you’ll witness the city lights and the architectural beauty of its bridges.

Departure Points: Near the Eiffel Tower, Orsay, and other various docks
Price: General cruises are roughly 20,000–40,000 KRW, with wine/dinner options costing more
Duration: Around 1 hour

Tip

Choose a departure time at sunset to capture both daytime and nighttime views. Bring a light jacket as it can be chilly.

Louvre Museum

The Louvre, one of the world’s largest museums, has an extensive collection including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian artifacts. While it’s a must-see in Paris, it’s more efficient to focus on key routes for 2–3 hours, starting with highlights like the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and Venus de Milo, then expanding to other interests.

Location: Near Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre station
Visit Duration: At least 2–3 hours
Price: Approximately 30,000–40,000 KRW (varies for special exhibits/evening openings)

Recommendation

Alternate entrances, like the Carrousel entrance, often have shorter waiting lines than the glass pyramid. Visiting during opening or on Wednesday/Friday evenings helps avoid crowds.

Tuileries Garden

The garden stretches from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde, serving as a ‘pause’ space among Parisian attractions. Enjoy a snack by the fountains or stroll among the trees before heading to your next stop.

Rest Tip: Resting for 20–30 minutes after tiring out at the Louvre can rejuvenate you for afternoon plans.

Musée d’Orsay

Celebrated as a sanctuary for Impressionism and modern art, the Orsay is set inside a converted railway station, offering a unique spatial experience. Featuring works by Monet, Manet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Cézanne, and more, it’s a top choice for painting enthusiasts.

Location: Musée d’Orsay station (RER C) or Solférino station (Metro line 12)
Visit Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
Price: Approximately 20,000–30,000 KRW

Tip

The view of Paris through the fifth-floor clock is a photo spot. Planning your visit top-down avoids the crowds.

Eiffel Tower/Trocadéro

End your day at Trocadéro, gazing at the Eiffel Tower at sunset. Afterwards, enjoy the hourly light show when the Eiffel Tower sparkles under the night sky. Booking a ticket for tower access in advance greatly reduces waiting times.

Tower Entry: Options for 2nd-floor/top access, stairs/elevator (approximately 30,000–60,000 KRW)
Free Spots: Trocadéro, Champ de Mars park

Note

There are frequent peddlers and pickpocketing attempts around the tower and plaza. Be cautious about securing your wallet, phone, and passport.

Montmartre

The hilltop village of Montmartre in north Paris is famous for the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Place du Tertre. The city view from the hill is particularly stunning on clear days. Capture a sketch portrait or enjoy a glass of wine at a bar below the hill for a classic Paris experience.

Transit: To Abbesses/Anvers stations, or take the funicular (hill cable car)
Budget: Basic entry to Sacré-Cœur is free; dome/crypt may have a fee (around tens of thousands KRW)

Recommendation

Visit the basilica in the early morning to avoid crowds, then follow a route through Place du Tertre, the vineyards, and Moulin de la Galette for a peaceful stroll.

Le Marais/Place des Vosges

Le Marais is known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, home to boutique stores, galleries, and dessert shops. Enjoy a picnic at Place des Vosges, a patisserie tour, or explore vegan bakeries during your visit.

Food Budget: Café desserts 6,000–15,000 KRW, casual dining 20,000–40,000 KRW
Shopping Streets: Rue des Rosiers, Rue Vieille du Temple

Canal Saint-Martin

A favorite of locals, the canal promenade is perfect for sunset strolls, a light snack, or browsing vintage shops. It’s quieter than central tourist areas, offering a glimpse into daily Parisian life.

Tip

The area is lined with benches, ideal for enjoying takeout. Be sure to dispose of trash in designated bins only.

Local Experiences

Beyond museum visits and landmarks, enrich your trip with local experiences that deepen your connection to Paris.

Cooking/Macaron Classes: Learn French dessert and sauce basics in a 2–3 hour class.
Wine/Cheese Tasting: Explore varietals and regions with expert pairing insights.
Versailles Half-Day Tour: Efficiently explore the gardens and palace with a guide.

Popular experiences can sell out quickly during peak seasons, so book early to gain more time slot choices.

Book Travel Activities

Budget Guide

Here’s a rough budget guideline per day (subject to personal preferences, exchange rates, and seasons).

Meals: Breakfast bakery/coffee 10,000–20,000 KRW, Casual Lunch 15,000–30,000 KRW, Bistro Dinner 30,000–60,000 KRW
Transport: Primarily public transport costs 6,000–15,000 KRW/day
Admission/Experiences: Around 20,000–80,000 KRW, depending on the day’s activities

On a day full of attractions, entry fees may pile up, so balance them with free spots (parks, free church sections, street walks).

Check Klook Monthly Promo Codes

Check MyRealTrip Discount Codes

Tip

Utilize museum day events (free entry) or evening openings to save both budget and time. However, expect crowds and longer waits on free-entry days.

Choosing Restaurants and Cafés

At tourist spots, look for ‘set menu’ options, and in streets popular with locals, check for lunch ‘formule’ (fixed menu). If a place requires a reservation, lunchtime is usually less competitive than dinner. For a dessert tour, plan 2–3 places in one area to naturally link indulgence with sightseeing and walking for better satisfaction.

Note

Tap water is generally free upon request, but bottled water carries an extra charge. Tipping isn’t mandatory, yet leaving small change as a token of appreciation for service is customary.

Safety and Security

While city safety is generally on par with other tourist areas, pickpocketing risks are heightened at large stations, crowded attractions, and at night. Keep backpack zippers closed and the bag in front, and avoid placing phones on the edges of tables or benches. Plan your night views’ return route in advance for added peace of mind.

Accommodation Selection

For first-time visitors, areas like the 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th arrondissements (near the Louvre, Île de la Cité, Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain, and Invalides) offer great accessibility with less travel time and easy returns at night. Choosing lodging with fewer transport transfers broadens the range of attractions you can explore in Paris. Rates fluctuate significantly during peak periods, exhibitions, and events, so start monitoring price trends 2–3 months in advance.

Compare Hotel Prices and Book

Tip

Be sure to confirm elevator availability, air conditioning, breakfast inclusion, and night front desk hours. Older buildings may lack soundproofing, so request upper or inner rooms if possible.

Bonus: Day/Half-Day Outskirts

If time allows, add places like Versailles, Giverny (Monet’s house and garden), or Fontainebleau to your itinerary. These areas reveal a different side of France, just beyond Paris. Choose transport (train, bus, or local tour) based on your schedule, and adjust days for garden visits after checking for rain forecasts.

Recommendation

For Versailles, organize your route as palace–gardens–fountain show (verify operating days), and aim to return before peak commuting if easy returns are preferred.

Sample 1-Day Itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary to experience Paris without a rush.

Morning: Sainte-Chapelle (pre-booked) → Stroll across Île de la Cité → Lunch in the Latin Quarter
Afternoon: Cover key routes in the Louvre for 2–3 hours → Rest at the Tuileries Garden
Evening: Take a Seine River cruise → Enjoy the Eiffel Tower night view from Trocadéro

On the next day, group the Orsay, Invalides, and walks along the south bank of the Seine. On another day, combine Montmartre, Le Marais, and Canal Saint-Martin for efficient energy and transport use.

How to Cut Reservation/Waiting Times

Attractions/Museums: Pre-book tickets and select entry times on the official website/mobile for shorter waits.
Restaurants: For popular spots, try booking the first lunch slot or a late lunch (around 2 PM).
Activities: For experiences sensitive to weather conditions, check cancellation/change policies.

Note

Operations may vary due to strikes or events. Always check official site announcements and transport app notifications before heading out.

Summary Checklist

Pre-Trip: Essentials, adapter, power bank, eSIM/Pocket WiFi
Pet Itinerary: 2–3 major spots + walking route per day
Transport: Charge Navigo Easy card and decide on airport-city transfer methods beforehand
Budget: Balance paid and free spots, regularly check discount codes
Safety: Distribute valuables, pre-plan night return routes

Final Notes

By following this guide, planning your Paris trip will be straightforward, even for first-time visitors managing routes, budgets, and time. Confirm and secure tickets and lodgings, including airport transfers and activities, ahead of time to save on waiting and costs on-site. Enjoy Paris on a reasonable budget.

Paris adventures are endless. Yet with a balance of must-sees and leisure, you can immerse yourself deeply even on your first visit. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!