4 Perfect Days in Paris: A Bucket-List Itinerary for Couples
Planning a trip to Paris? Paris is a city that lives up to its legend—romantic, cinematic, and endlessly inspiring. Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon, anniversary or just exploring the City of Love, Paris offers an unforgettable blend of culture, cuisine, and charm. Inspired by my “Three Perfect Days in Paris” itinerary , I’ve created an extended four-day adventure that balances iconic landmarks with intimate experiences, perfect for couples seeking both excitement and connection. Keep reading for how to spend 4 perfect days in Paris.
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Table of Contents
Quick Guide To Paris in 4 Days
Navigating Paris
When it comes to getting around Paris, there are many options. You can use the metro, ride share services, taxi, and even walk if it’s not too far.
I am personally a big fan of their public transport system and always use it when visiting the city. Don’t speak French? Don’t worry. The metro is easy to navigate and has signage in multiple languages.
If you are going to be visiting multiple areas in the city, I recommend purchasing the Navigo Pass. This card allows you to load one ride at a time, or a set of 10. We usually opt for the set of 10 so that it’s an easy scan and go!
There are multiple self-service kiosks at each metro station or you can visit an attendant’s booth for assistance.
Pro Tip: Booking accommodation close to a metro station makes transportation super easy. We love staying at Courtyard Paris Gare de Lyon and highly recommend checking it out. Close to a metro station and great breakfast!
Day 1: Iconic Paris – Art, Gardens, Sunset on the Seine
Morning: The Louvre & Tuileries Garden
Your first stop for 4 perfect days in Paris begins at the Louvre Museum. Even if you’re not an art aficionado, you have to at least see the Mona Lisa! Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the adjacent Tuileries Garden, where manicured lawns and fountains provide a serene setting for a morning coffee.
If you really enjoy art (or have more than 4 perfect days in Paris) you may want to allow for more time at the Louvre. It would be easy to spend a full day here!
Afternoon: Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Walk along the famed Champs-Élysées, indulging in some window shopping or a café break. At the avenue’s end, climb the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris’s grand boulevards radiating outward.
The Arc de Triomphe is my favorite spot for panoramic pictures of Paris. Take your time at the top to orient yourself in the city and snap some stunning shots with the Eiffel Tower in the background.
Evening: Seine River Dinner Cruise
As the sun sets, embark on a romantic dinner cruise along the Seine River. Glide past illuminated landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower, enjoying fine French cuisine and the city’s enchanting ambiance.
This is a very romantic way to start your Paris trip and see multiple iconic sights without navigating the city.
Day 2: Royalty and Romance – Versailles and Montmartre
Morning: Palace of Versailles
This is a must-do for your trip to Paris! To get to Versailles, we took a train from the city center. It was a short ride and an easy walk to the palace grounds from the station. We had reserved tickets in advance which makes it very easy to enter.
Pro Tip: Visit first thing in the morning to avoid crowds and get pictures without a million people in the background.
We had an guide and took our time walking through the palace, admiring the art and decor. The Hall of Mirrors is an iconic photo op but we found hidden gems through every entryway.
The grounds are just as impressive as the inside of the palace. Definitely bring some good walking shoes so you can explore the meticulous landscaping, fountains and walking paths.
This could easily be a full-day activity with plenty to do and restaurants to enjoy lunch.
Afternoon: Return to Paris & Montmartre Exploration
Back in Paris, head to the bohemian district of Montmartre. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy sweeping views of the city. Wander through cobblestone streets, discovering art studios and quaint cafés that capture the area’s artistic spirit.
Montmartre is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs from your trip. We enjoy taking our time walking through the shops and art displays.
Booking a walking tour is also a great way to learn more about this area of the city.
Evening: Dinner in Montmartre
Dine at a cozy Montmartre bistro, savoring classic French dishes. Consider catching a live music performance or simply enjoy a quiet evening walk through the illuminated streets.
Maybe a crepe for dessert?
Day 3: Historical Paris: Notre Dame and Saint-Chapelle
Paris is so rich in history, visiting these two sites has to be on your bucket list.
Morning: Start your day by visiting Notre Dame Cathedral. The last time we visited Paris, Notre Dame was still closed due to reconstruction from the 2019 fire. However, it is now back open and waiting for you to visit!
You can make a free reservation online for a timed entry to help you avoid the crowds. If you are looking for more of a unique experience, you can book a guided tour with access to skip the line.
Guided tours are my favorite ways to explore the history of a new city. With so much to see and such little time, having an expert as part of tour really helps to get the most out of the experience. Below are some of my favorite options for guided tours in Paris.
Afternoon: Saint Chapelle
After you have explore Notre Dame (and grabbed another coffee and pain au chocolate) you can walk over to Saint Chapelle.
Saint Chapelle is a beautiful church that was built in the mid-1200s. The stain glass is breathtaking with over 1,113 windows stretching from floor to ceiling. The church used to be home to relics of the Passion of the Christ and is a popular historical destination.
We booked a tour to learn more about history of Saint Chapelle and I highly recommend. The tour gives details about the church as well as tells the stories depicted in the stain glass. There are options for child audioguides as well as a small gift shop located by the entrance.
Day 4: Markets, Museums and Farewell Views
Morning: Rue Cler Market Street
Start your day at Rue Cler, a bustling market street between the Eiffel Tower and Rodin Museum. It is a pedestrian only street where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries. Channel your inner Parisian and gather supplies for a leisurely picnic.
Afternoon: Musée d’Orsay
This museum is located in the heart of Paris, inside an old railway station called the Gare d’Orsay.
Many famous impressionist works of art are housed here, including pieces by Vincent Van Gogh, Monet and Renoir.
We booked our tickets HERE to help fast track the entry process.
The Grand Finale
Evening: Eiffel Tower and Trocadero Gardens
We may have saved the best for last! This may be the most iconic Paris sight and saving it for last is a great way to end your 4 Perfect Days in Paris.
This is an attraction where you really should book your tickets in advance.
There are many different viewing options to choose from and even a restaurant located in the Eiffel Tower!
My favorite ticket package is entry with the second floor lift access so we can ride the elevator rather than taking the 674 stairs.
The views here are amazing and you can take your time capturing pictures.
Celebrating? Enjoy a champagne toast at the top of the Eiffel Tower!
Looking for the picture perfect location? Trocadero Gardens is located on the opposite side of the Seine river from the Eiffel Tower and offers some of the best tower views.
The worst part about visiting Paris, is having to say au revoir.
The best way to say your final goodbyes is watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle. This light show takes place at the beginning of every hour from dusk until 1AM (2AM in the summer) and is the perfect ending to magical trip.
Tips for Couples Traveling to Paris
Stay Central: Choose accommodations in central arrondissements (1st to 7th) to be within walking distance of major attractions.
Embrace Café Culture: Take time to relax at street-side cafés, soaking in the ambiance and people-watching.
Use Public Transport: The Metro is efficient and connects you to all parts of the city. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for convenience.
Learn Basic French Phrases: Simple greetings and expressions can enhance your interactions and show respect for local culture.
Plan Ahead: Book tickets for popular attractions and restaurants in advance to avoid long waits and ensure availability.
Paris offers a tapestry of experiences that cater to both adventure and romance. With this 4 perfect days in Paris itinerary, couples can immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and intimate moments that make Paris an enduring destination for love and exploration.
Looking for more information on visiting Paris? Check out these posts:
City Of Love: Best Paris Activities for Couples
3 Perfect Days in Paris: Ultimate Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
