Ahh, Paris – the City of Lights! If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway or a culturally rich adventure, there’s no better destination. After you set a budget for travel, the next step is to plan travel. This post is an easy guide to plan a vacation to Paris…I got you!
Planning a trip to Paris can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting. I know, my first time planning our trip to Paris surely was, and now I have first-hand experience. My husband and I were there in 2024, and we plan to repeat our trip to Paris soon!
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be strolling down the Champs-Élysées like a true Parisian in no time.
Step 1: Decide When to Go
The first step in planning your Paris adventure is to choose the best time to visit. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are great options, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds (and cheaper prices!) than the peak summer months. If you enjoy bundling up in winter or dressing light in summer, Paris can be a magical place to visit.
Step 2: Book Your Flight and Hotel
Once you’ve settled on dates, it is time to book your flight to Paris and reserve your hotel room or suite. I recommend using a flight search engine like Kayak or Google Flights to find the best deals on airfare. You could even book a flight and hotel package through a site like Expedia.
When deciding where to stay in Paris, there are endless options – from charming Airbnb to boutique hotels. I suggest booking a hotel in central areas like the Marais, Saint Germain des Prés. Near iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe are great options. This will make getting around and visiting Paris’s top sites a breeze.
Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary
Now for the fun part – mapping out what you’ll see and do! I recommend spending at least 4-5 days in Paris itself to soak up the major attractions. But if you have a week or more, budget time for some incredible day trips from Paris too.
In the city center, you can’t miss icons like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Musée d’Orsay. Walking along the Champs-Élysées and Seine River is a must, as is people-watching from a charming cafe.
Explore the lively Montmartre neighborhood at a leisurely pace. You can see the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the lively Moulin Rouge cabaret. Take a walk through the vibrant streets and enjoy the sights. The neighborhood has a reputation for its history and charm.
If you’re looking for fun day trips, consider visiting Versailles Palace. Another option is to explore the charming town of Provins. You could also admire the tall cathedrals in Chartres or Reims. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a fast train to London?
Step 4: Learn Some Basic French Phrases
Although many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can greatly enhance your experience. A simple “Bonjour!” (good morning/hello), “Merci” (thank you), or “Je ne comprends pas” (I don’t understand) can help break the ice. You could even download a translation app to have handy just in case.
Step 5: Get Your Essentials in Order
About a month before your trip, it’s time to organize and get ready. If needed, renew or get a new passport. Inform your bank and credit card companies that you will be traveling.
Purchase travel insurance. Exchange money for euros at your bank. You’ll also want to look into getting a sim card for your phone to have data in Paris.
Step 6: Map it Out
In the weeks leading up to your trip, start mapping out a rough daily itinerary on Google Maps. This helps you sort attractions by location and find the best ways to get there – by metro, bus, taxi, walking, etc. The Paris metro is easy to navigate, just be sure to get a map!
Download any apps you might need, like Google Translate, Citymapper for transit, and apps for any tours or museums you’ve pre-booked. And be sure to leave some unscheduled buffer time to wander, get delightfully lost, and just soak in the Parisian ambiance.
Step 7: Start Packing!
With just a week or two to go, it’s time to start picking out what to pack. Layers are key – have a mix of warm and cool weather options no matter when you visit.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as is an ultra-light packable rain jacket or umbrella. A cross-body bag will help deter pickpockets. And don’t forget a Paris guidebook, a travel camera – I prefer GoPro, and all your chargers!
Step 8: Have the Trip of a Lifetime in the City of Lights!
You made it – your Parisian dream vacation is here! Enjoy walking through beautiful neighborhoods, admiring stunning art and architecture, and tasting delicious wines, pastries, bread, and cheese.
Cherish every moment. Discover hidden streets, chat with locals, and embrace Parisian life to fully experience the city’s charm and culture. Before you know it, you’ll be coming home avec une tonne de souvenirs!
And that’s it – my foolproof 8-step process for planning an unforgettable trip to Paris. Plan ahead and map out your time in Paris to make the most of your visit without feeling overwhelmed.
Bon voyage and enjoy every second – you will be going to Paris!
