Self-Guided Paris Food Trip: A Complete Digital Guide

Day 1: Arrival & first discoveries

1. 50m
   There are two main ways to get from Orly Airport to your hotel. The fastest option is to take Metro Line 14 directly from the airport (this requires a separate ticket-€10.30), then transfer to Metro Line 8 at Madeleine station and get off at École Vétérinaire de Maisons-Alfort. The cheaper option-covered by the Navigo Découverte pass-is to take bus 183 from the airport. At Choisy-le-Roi RER station, transfer to bus 103, which drops you near your hotel. It takes longer, but it’s fully included in your weekly transit pass.
2. Casino Shop
   20m
   Just a short walk from your hotel, this convenient local supermarket has everything you need for a quick breakfast or easy dinner. You’ll find fresh pastries, a microwave station for heating meals, and even a solid selection of French wine. It’s the perfect first stop to settle in like a local.

Day 2: Montmartre & an aperitif at the Eifel Tower

1. Montmartre
   2h
   Today, you’ll explore the artsy charm of Montmartre- a hilltop neighborhood full of hidden gems, cobblestone streets, and bohemian spirit. Start by wandering past cozy cafés, local boutiques, and colorful galleries. Once home to legends like Picasso and Van Gogh, Montmartre still feels like an open-air studio. Climb the hill to the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica and take in sweeping views of Paris. As the day winds down, I’ll guide you to the best spots for a golden-hour aperitif with the Eiffel Tower in sight-and show you where to snap those perfect photos with the Iron Lady in the background.
2. Wall Of Love
   10m
   This mural features “I love you” in over 300 languages. A sweet, quick stop for a romantic photo and a symbolic start to your day in Montmartre.
3. Durance
   20m
   Provencal perfume and cosmetics boutique is ideal for picking up beautiful, non-touristy souvenirs like mini perfumes or artisanal gifts.
4. 10m
   Instead of climbing the 197 steps, you can take the funicular to the top of Montmartre. It's quick and included in your transport pass. But if you're up for a short workout, the stairs are right next to it!
5. 45m · Admission ticket not included
   The iconic white basilica offers one of the best panoramic views in Paris. Entry to the church is free, but for breathtaking city views, climb up to the dome.
   
   Dome – Adults: 8 €, Children under 16: 5 €
6. 40m
   Try a French classic: Croque Madame (cheese, ham, béchamel, and a fried egg on top) or Croque Monsieur (without the egg). A cosy, casual place to recharge.
7. 15m
   A charming little shop filled with vintage buttons in all shapes and colours. It’s a nostalgic spot that feels like stepping back in time. Great for anyone who loves crafts or unique souvenirs.
8. Moulin Rouge
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   The world’s most iconic cabaret. If you’re planning to attend the show, be sure to book your tickets well in advance as they often sell out. Cabaret ticket: from 80 € per person From here, hop on bus no. 30 for a scenic 30-minute ride (17 stops) directly to the Eiffel Tower.
9. Eiffel Tower
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   You can climb or ride to the top for unforgettable views but the best photo spots are often from below, like the Trocadéro, Rue de l’Université, or Seine riverbank.
   
   Prices vary depending on access:
   • Stairs to 2nd floor: 11,80 €
   • Lift to top: 29,40 €
10. 45m
    End your day with a glass of Beaujolais or a coffee at this café with a perfect Eiffel Tower view. Especially magical at sunset or when the lights start to sparkle every hour after dark.

Day 3: History & Museums

1. Place de la Concorde
   30m
   Today is all about Paris’s world-class museums -but don’t try to see them all in one go. Pick the ones that truly interest you so you can enjoy the experience without rushing. A few tips: many museums are closed one day a week, usually Monday or Tuesday, so double-check before you go. On the first Sunday of the month, admission is often free. And for most popular spots (like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay), booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to skip long lines. While you're out exploring, don’t miss Place de la Concorde- one of the most historically important squares in Paris. It sits at the end of the Champs-Élysées near the Tuileries Gardens, framed by two elegant fountains and stunning views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Fun (and dark) fact: this square was once the site of about 1,200 executions during the French Revolution- including Queen Marie Antoinette.
2. Musee d'Orsay
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   The Orsay Museum, set inside a stunning former railway station, is home to one of the world’s top collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art-think Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and more.
   
   It’s closed on Mondays, and we highly recommend booking your ticket in advance to skip the lines. General admission is €16 (about $17). Don’t miss the café on the fifth floor-it offers a gorgeous view of Paris, though there’s often a wait.
3. 45m
   A charming Parisian brasserie ideal for lunch. Try savory galettes or sweet crêpes for a quick and hearty meal. Great for a short break between museum visits.
4. Louvre Museum
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   One of the world’s greatest and most visited museums. Due to high demand, tickets must be booked in advance for a specific date and time. Closed on Tuesdays.
   
   Advance ticket: €25.00
5. Musee de l’Orangerie
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Closed on Tuesdays, with free entry on the first Sunday of each month. It’s best to book your tickets in advance through the official website. Highlights include Monet’s massive Water Lilies murals and other Impressionist masterpieces.
   
   Advance ticket price: €13.50 (about $15).
6. Musee du Parfum - Fragonard
   40m
   This unique perfume museum offers free admission and the opportunity to purchase exclusive fragrances. A lovely stop for fragrance lovers and those curious about the art of perfumery.
7. 50m
   A perfect spot to warm up with a classic French onion soup, especially on cooler days. Enjoy authentic flavors in a cozy Parisian setting.

Day 4: Versailles

1. 1h 30m
   Today you'll visit Versailles. If you have enough time and the weather is nice, you can enjoy a picnic in its gardens.
   
   Take the line 8 to the Invalides stop and change to the RER C Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche is the final stop. The total journey takes about an hour and a half.
2. Palace of Versailles
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Tickets for the Palace of Versailles must be booked in advance for a specific date and time on the official website. The palace is closed on Mondays. The main castle tour takes about 1.5 hours, but if you have extra time, consider the Passeport ticket-it gives you access to the entire estate: the palace, gardens, Trianon estate, and the carriage gallery. You can also choose to visit the gardens separately after your palace tour, depending on the weather. Palace tour: €21.00 (about $23) Gardens only: €10.00 (about $11) Passeport (all-access): €32.00 (about $35)
3. Jardins du Chateau de Versailles
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   If you visit the gardens, plan to spend at least 2 hours. It’s worth it! You can bring your own snacks for a picnic or buy refreshments at kiosks. Keep your ticket handy, as you will need it to enter paid parts of the park. Bicycle and boat rentals are available, with the option to row on the Grand Canal.

Day 5: Departure Day

1. Orly
   Pass by
   Today you’ll be traveling to the airport to return home. Be sure to arrive with plenty of time before your flight.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels