Paris 6 Days Itinerary (2026): The Complete Classic 6-Day Travel Plan for First-Time Visitors

A classic 6-day Paris itinerary covering top sights, museums, and neighborhoods at the perfect pace.

by Ayla
Spending six full days in Paris gives you the perfect balance between iconic landmarks, local neighborhoods, museum visits, relaxing river walks, and one unforgettable day trip. This structured Paris 6 Days Itinerary (2026) is designed for first-time visitors who want a classic route that feels complete, realistic, and enjoyable — without rushing from place to place.In this classic Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026, each day includes suggested time blocks, metro access, walking times, expert tips, scenic viewpoints, and optional upgrades like skip-the-line tickets and river cruises. By following this plan, you’ll be able to experience the best of the French capital at a comfortable pace, while still covering all the must-see attractions.For further trip planning alongside this Paris 6 Days Itinerary, you may also want to read:


Quick Overview – Classic Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026

Before diving into the detailed breakdown, here is a quick overview of your classic Paris 6 Days Itinerary. This route is designed to move logically across the city and reduce unnecessary backtracking.

  • Day 1: Eiffel Tower → Trocadéro → Seine River Walk → Arc de Triomphe → Champs-Élysées
  • Day 2: Louvre Museum → Tuileries Garden → Orangerie → Seine River Cruise (optional)
  • Day 3: Montmartre → Sacré-Cœur → Place du Tertre → Evening views over Paris
  • Day 4: Musée d’Orsay → Saint-Germain-des-Prés → Luxembourg Gardens → Latin Quarter
  • Day 5: Full-Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles
  • Day 6: Île de la Cité → Notre-Dame area → Le Marais → Canal Saint-Martin

Paris 6 Days Itinerary – Summary Table

DayMain Areas & AttractionsAverage DurationNearest Metro
Day 1Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro, Seine Walk, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées6–7 hoursBir-Hakeim / Trocadéro / Charles de Gaulle–Étoile
Day 2Louvre Museum, Tuileries Garden, Orangerie, Seine Cruise (optional)6–8 hoursPalais Royal – Musée du Louvre / Concorde
Day 3Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, Artists’ Square, viewpoint terraces6–7 hoursAnvers / Abbesses
Day 4Musée d’Orsay, Saint-Germain, Luxembourg Gardens, Latin Quarter7 hoursSolférino / Saint-Michel
Day 5Palace of Versailles (Full-Day Trip)6–7 hoursRER C – Versailles Château Rive Gauche
Day 6Île de la Cité, Notre-Dame area, Le Marais, Canal Saint-Martin6 hoursCité / Hôtel de Ville / République

Day 1 – Paris 6 Days Itinerary: Eiffel Tower, Seine River & Arc de Triomphe

Eiffel Tower morning view for Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026

Start your Paris 6 Days Itinerary with peaceful morning views of the Eiffel Tower

📍 Morning – Eiffel Tower & Trocadéro (Start of Your Paris 6 Days Itinerary)

Suggested time: 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM

To begin your classic Paris 6 Days Itinerary, head straight to the Eiffel Tower area. Starting your day here not only gives you calm conditions and softer light, but it also lets you enjoy one of the most famous views in the world before crowds build up. First, make your way to Trocadéro Square, which offers the best wide-angle view of the tower.

  • Metro: Bir-Hakeim (Line 6) or Trocadéro (Line 9)
  • Best photo spots: Trocadéro Terrace, Pont d’Iéna, Champ de Mars
  • Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours if going up the tower

If you plan to go up the Eiffel Tower, it is strongly recommended to book a timed skip-the-line ticket in advance. Otherwise, you may lose a significant part of your day waiting in queues.

Skip-the-line entrance: Book Eiffel Tower tickets

Pro Tip: After you finish at Trocadéro, walk down the steps toward the fountains for dynamic low-angle photos of the tower, then cross Pont d’Iéna to reach the base.

📍 Late Morning – Seine River Walk (Classic Paris 6-Day Route)

After visiting the Eiffel Tower, continue your Paris 6 Days Itinerary with a gentle walk along the Seine. This is a great transition between major sights because you can enjoy the atmosphere while still moving toward your next area.

Follow the riverside paths, passing boats, bridges, and open views of central Paris. You can either stay on the same bank or cross over one of the nearby bridges, depending on where you prefer to head next.

  • Walking time: 20–30 minutes of relaxed strolling
  • Best for: photos, fresh air, iconic riverside views

📍 Afternoon – Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées

Arc de Triomphe rooftop view over Paris for 6 days itinerary

Climb the Arc de Triomphe rooftop for one of the best panoramic views in Paris

Suggested time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PMNext, make your way to the Arc de Triomphe, one of the key highlights in any structured Paris 6 Days Itinerary. From the Eiffel Tower area, you can either walk via the Seine and Avenue Kléber or take the metro to Charles de Gaulle–Étoile.

  • Metro: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6)
  • Average visit duration: 45–60 minutes
  • Experience: impressive architecture + rooftop viewpoint

Climbing the rooftop platform requires a ticket and a set of stairs, but the reward is one of the best elevated views in Paris. From the top, you will see the Champs-Élysées stretching in one direction and the La Défense business district in the other, along with distant views of the Eiffel Tower.

Rooftop ticket: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Ticket

📍 Late Afternoon & Evening – Walk Along the Champs-Élysées

To finish Day 1 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary, walk down the Champs-Élysées. Although this avenue is famous for its shops and cafés, it also offers classic city views and easy access back toward the center.

  • Approximate walking time: 30–45 minutes, depending on stops
  • Good for: window shopping, cafés, evening city atmosphere

End of Day 1: You’ve already covered the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées, which makes this a very strong start to your classic Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026.


Day 2 – Paris 6 Days Itinerary: Louvre Museum, Tuileries & Seine Cruise

Louvre Pyramid in the morning for Paris 6 Days Itinerary

The Louvre Pyramid at opening time – a must-see on your Paris 6 Days Itinerary

📍 Morning – Louvre Museum Highlights (Core of Your Paris 6-Day Plan)

Suggested time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

On Day 2 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary, you will focus on art and culture, starting with the world-famous Louvre Museum. Because the Louvre is extremely large, it is important to follow a focused plan. Instead of trying to see everything, concentrate on key highlights and a few favorite sections.

  • Mona Lisa – Denon Wing
  • Winged Victory of Samothrace
  • Venus de Milo
  • Egyptian Antiquities
  • Metro: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Line 1)
  • Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours

To avoid long lines, it is best to book a timed entrance ticket in advance, especially in high season or on weekends.

Timed entry ticket: Louvre Museum Entry Ticket

For updated information on exhibitions, opening hours, and visitor services, you can also check the official Louvre website:
Louvre Official Website

📍 Midday – Tuileries Garden (Relaxing Pause in Your 6-Day Paris Itinerary)

Relaxing in Tuileries Garden during a 6 days Paris trip

Take a relaxing break in Tuileries Garden between Louvre and the rest of your itinerary

After leaving the Louvre, step directly into the elegant Tuileries Garden. This formal garden connects the museum with Place de la Concorde and is an ideal place to rest your feet for a moment.

  • Walking time: 2–3 minutes from Louvre exit
  • Best for: relaxing, taking photos, enjoying fountains and statues

You can sit by one of the central ponds, enjoy a quick snack, or simply admire the symmetry of the pathways and hedges. This slower moment helps balance the intensity of the museum visit and keeps your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026 comfortable and enjoyable.

📍 Afternoon – Musée de l’Orangerie or Extra Louvre Time

Next, you have two main options, depending on your interest and energy level. Either you visit another compact museum or extend your time in the Louvre area.

  • Option 1: Visit Musée de l’Orangerie to see Monet’s Water Lilies.
  • Option 2: Spend additional time exploring more sections of the Louvre or relaxing in the garden.

Musée de l’Orangerie is located at the far end of the Tuileries Garden (near Place de la Concorde) and is famous for its oval rooms filled with Monet’s monumental Water Lilies panels.

  • Typical visit duration: 1–1.5 hours
  • Best for: fans of Impressionism and calm museum spaces

📍 Evening – Optional Seine River Cruise (Perfect End to Day 2)

Seine river cruise at sunset for a Paris 6 days itinerary

A Seine River Cruise at sunset is a beautiful optional upgrade to your Paris 6 Days Itinerary

To finish Day 2 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary, you can add a relaxing Seine River Cruise. Boarding near the Eiffel Tower or central Paris, these one-hour cruises allow you to see many of the city’s monuments from the water, beautifully lit in the evening.

  • Best time: Around sunset or just after dark
  • Experience: Illuminated bridges, Notre-Dame, Musée d’Orsay, and Eiffel Tower views
  • Tickets: 1-Hour Seine River Cruise

End of Day 2: By now, your classic Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026 has already included the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Tuileries, and possibly a Seine Cruise — an excellent foundation for the rest of the week.


Day 3 – Paris 6 Days Itinerary: Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur & Artistic Viewpoints

Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur morning sunlight for Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026

Start Day 3 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary with morning light at Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

📍 Morning – Exploring Montmartre Village (Core of the Paris 6 Days Itinerary)

Suggested time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Begin Day 3 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026 in the charming hillside district of Montmartre. As you stroll through cobblestone alleys, you’ll immediately notice the artistic spirit that once attracted Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Since the area is more peaceful in the morning, it’s the perfect time to experience its authentic village atmosphere.

  • Metro: Anvers (Line 2) or Abbesses (Line 12)
  • Walking time: 10–15 minutes uphill
  • Good for: photography, cafés, boutique shops

Make your way toward the central square of Montmartre, where street artists create portraits and sell charming paintings. This stop adds a cultural layer to your Paris 6-Day trip and gives you beautiful memories to take home.

📍 Mid-Morning – Sacré-Cœur Basilica (Iconic Paris 6 Days Itinerary Stop)

Sacré-Cœur Basilica panoramic city view for Paris 6 Days Itinerary

Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers one of the best viewpoints in Paris — a highlight of any 6-day itinerary

  • Visit duration: 30–45 minutes
  • Optional: Climb the dome for a 360° panoramic view

Standing at the very top of Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur Basilica provides one of the most breathtaking city views in Paris. The viewpoint terrace outside the basilica is completely free, making it a perfect addition to your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026. If you want an even higher perspective, consider climbing the dome for a spectacular panorama.

📍 Afternoon – Artists’ Square & Scenic Backstreets

Place du Tertre artists square in Montmartre during Paris 6 day visit

Place du Tertre—Montmartre’s famous artists’ square filled with portrait painters and charming cafés

Suggested time: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Continue Day 3 by wandering through Place du Tertre, the iconic artists’ square. Here, you can watch painters create portraits in real time, enjoy local cafés, or simply admire the historic ambiance. Because Montmartre is rich in cultural and architectural gems, taking your time here is an essential part of a relaxed Paris 6-Day itinerary.

  • Good for: portraits, cafés, traditional French atmosphere
  • Walking: Explore Rue de l’Abreuvoir & Maison Rose

📍 Evening – Paris Viewpoints & Sunset

Montmartre is one of the best districts in Paris for sunset. As the sun lowers, the white domes of Sacré-Cœur glow with golden light, creating a picture-perfect moment to end Day 3 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary.


Day 4 – Paris 6 Days Itinerary: Musée d’Orsay, Saint-Germain & Luxembourg Gardens

Musée d’Orsay Impressionist art collection

Musée d’Orsay — home to the world’s greatest Impressionist collection, essential for your Paris 6 Days Itinerary

📍 Morning – Musée d’Orsay (Essential for Your Paris 6-Day Trip)

Suggested time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Start Day 4 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary at the magnificent Musée d’Orsay. Housed in a former railway station, this museum contains the world’s most important Impressionist artwork — including Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, and Renoir. Because the museum fills up later in the day, arriving early is the best approach.

  • Metro: Solférino (Line 12)
  • Best for: Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces
  • Visit duration: 2–3 hours

Skip-the-line ticket:
Musée d’Orsay Entry Ticket

📍 Midday – Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Classic Parisian District)

Saint-Germain-des-Prés cafés and streets during a 6-day Paris itinerary

Saint-Germain-des-Prés — elegant streets, bookstores, chocolatiers, and cafés

Suggested time: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PMAfter your museum visit, walk across the river into Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the city’s most charming districts. This area is filled with historic cafés, luxury chocolatiers, art shops, and boutique bookstores, making it an excellent cultural stop in your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026.

  • Best for: lunch, cafés, pastry tasting
  • Highlights: Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore, Saint-Germain Abbey

📍 Afternoon – Luxembourg Gardens (Perfect Relaxation During Your 6-Day Trip)

Luxembourg Gardens fountains and palace view during

Luxembourg Gardens — one of Paris’s most peaceful and picturesque green spaces

Suggested time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PMYour Day 4 continues with a relaxing walk through the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. This historic royal garden is popular among Parisians for afternoon strolls, making it the ideal peaceful break in your Paris 6-Day itinerary.

  • Best spots: Medici Fountain, Luxembourg Palace view, central pond
  • Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours

After exploring the gardens, you can continue walking toward the Latin Quarter, known for its lively streets, bookstores, and student cafés — an ideal way to complete Day 4 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026.


Day 5 – Paris 6 Days Itinerary: Full-Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles

Versailles Palace Hall of Mirrors for Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026

The Hall of Mirrors — the crown jewel of Versailles and a highlight of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary

Day 5 of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026 is entirely dedicated to the world-famous Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most extraordinary royal estates on the planet. Because it is massive and full of incredible sights, spending a full day ensures you explore the palace, gardens, fountains, and Trianon estates comfortably.

📍 Morning – The Main Palace & Hall of Mirrors

Suggested time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Start your visit with the Royal Apartments and continue toward the breathtaking Hall of Mirrors. This grand gallery once hosted royal ceremonies and diplomatic events, making it an unmissable part of your 6-day itinerary in Paris. Since morning hours are quieter, you’ll enjoy better photos and smoother movement inside the palace.

📍 Afternoon – Gardens, Fountains & Grand Canal

Versailles Gardens and Grand Canal during a

Versailles Gardens — fountains, statues, and elegant pathways stretching across vast royal grounds

Suggested time: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PMAfter touring the palace, spend the afternoon exploring the Gardens of Versailles. With sweeping landscapes, geometric lawns, fountains, and lakes, the gardens offer relaxing scenery perfect for walking or photography. On musical fountain days, the atmosphere becomes even more magical.

  • Highlights: Latona Fountain, Apollo Fountain, Grand Canal
  • Optional: Rowboat rental on the Grand Canal

📍 Late Afternoon – Grand Trianon & Marie Antoinette’s Estate

Grand Trianon pink marble palace at Versailles

The elegant Grand Trianon — a quiet royal retreat inside Versailles estate

Suggested time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PMContinue your tour with the Grand Trianon and the charming Queen’s Hamlet, built for Marie Antoinette. Because this area is quieter and more relaxed, it provides a wonderful contrast to the grandeur of the main palace.After returning to Paris in the evening, enjoy a quiet dinner near your hotel to rest before the final day of your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026.


Day 6 – Paris 6 Days Itinerary: Modern Paris, La Défense & Evening Seine Cruise

La Defense modern architecture skyline for Paris 6 day itinerary

La Défense — Paris’s modern skyline and a refreshing contrast to the historic center

📍 Morning – La Défense (A Unique Contrast in Your 6-Day Paris Plan)

Suggested time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Begin your final day in the futuristic district of La Défense, Paris’s financial and business hub. Known for its striking skyscrapers, modern sculptures, and expansive open spaces, this area offers a refreshing change of pace after five days of classic Parisian landmarks. Walking through La Défense adds depth and variety to your Paris 6 Days Itinerary.

  • Metro: La Défense – Grande Arche
  • Highlights: Grande Arche, Esplanade, CNIT

📍 Midday – Return to Paris Center & Covered Passages

Paris covered passages glass arcades during 6 day itinerary walk

Parisian covered passages — elegant glass-roofed arcades filled with bookshops and antique boutiques

Suggested time: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PMContinue your final day by exploring the historic Paris covered passages — Passage Jouffroy, Passage Verdeau, and Passage des Panoramas. These glass-roofed arcades are filled with antique shops, patisseries, and bookstores. Since they are centrally located, they provide an excellent cultural stop before your evening activity.

  • Best for: shopping, photography, architecture
  • Nearby metro: Grands Boulevards

📍 Evening – Seine River Cruise (Perfect Ending to Your Paris 6 Days Itinerary)

Sunset Seine River Cruise ending

A sunset Seine River Cruise — the perfect way to end your 6-day journey through Paris

  • Best time: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Experience: Eiffel Tower lights, illuminated bridges, peaceful river views
  • Tickets: 1-Hour Seine River Cruise

Finally, conclude your Paris 6 Days Itinerary 2026 with a magical cruise along the Seine. As monuments sparkle around you, you’ll enjoy one of the most unforgettable nighttime scenes in Europe.


Final Thoughts – Completing Your Paris 6 Days Itinerary

This complete Paris 6 Days Itinerary (2026) provides a perfect balance of iconic landmarks, cultural districts, relaxing gardens, and world-class day trips. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, from Montmartre to Versailles, and from Saint-Germain to La Défense, you have now explored the very best of Paris at a comfortable and enjoyable pace.

For more detailed planning, the official Paris Tourist Office offers useful travel information:

Paris Tourist Office – Official Website

And for extended itineraries, continue with:


FAQ – Paris 6 Days Itinerary

Is 6 days enough for Paris?

Yes — six days is perfect to explore major landmarks, museums, neighborhoods, and even take a full-day trip to Versailles without rushing.

What is the best month for a 6-day Paris itinerary?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the best weather, views, and smaller crowds.

Do I need skip-the-line tickets?

Absolutely. Skip-the-line tickets save 1–2 hours at the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Versailles.

Is public transport enough for 6 days in Paris?

Yes. The Paris metro is fast, reliable, and covers all major attractions in this itinerary.


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