They say “Paris is always a good idea,” and honestly — they’re right. Trying to put together a one-week itinerary for Paris? Not so easy. There’s just so much to do! My husband and I traveled to Paris almost 20 years ago, without kids and so here’s my best shot at sharing what our first trip to Paris looked like as a family of five — full of adventure, crepes, and memories we’ll never forget.

One Week in Paris: Family of Five-Adventures in the City of Light

Our family of five had just one week to experience Paris — and what a week it was! From iconic landmarks to quiet café corners, we soaked in every moment. With only seven days, we made the most of our time, packing in the culture, crepes, and unforgettable memories. Paris didn’t just meet our expectations — it exceeded them!

🇫🇷 PARIS 101: TIPS FOR AMERICANS IN SPRING 🌸

Things to Pack:

1. Passport! It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how easy it is to overlook the most important item. Don’t leave home without it!

🌤 WEATHER & WHAT TO WEAR:

In May 2025, Paris typically enjoys mild spring weather, but it can be unpredictable, so packing with versatility in mind is key.Layers are your friend: Mornings and evenings can be chilly, even if afternoons are sunny (temps range ~49–71°F / 9–21°C). Bring a scarf: Parisians love them, and it’s stylish + practical. Light jacket or trench coat: Especially for spring breezes and rainy spells. Comfortable shoes: Paris is best seen on foot. Opt for chic sneakers or stylish flats (no athletic running shoes unless you’re working out). Umbrella or waterproof jacket: Spring showers come and go. A few of my favorite stores for basic essentials include (Seen in photo below): Amazon (Mid-length black coat), Black trouser pants, Target (sunglasses), J.Crew (striped tee). Other favorite stores for that European style try Zara, H&M, Nordstroms Rack.

Parisians dress smart casual — leave the sweatpants, shorts, leggings, bright & bold colored clothing, and backpacks at home. Many shops close Sunday & midday — plan accordingly. Use Google Translate app and Citymapper for navigating.

Outfit Below: Crocheted top and Belt (Target) , white jeans (Amazon).

A few of my favorite finds for Being Prepared in Paris!

Comfty & Cute Travel Day Look: Amazon

New Balance Women’s Sneakers: Nordstrom

Crossbody Favorite: Athleta Crossbody: https://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=613694012&vid=1&searchText=crossbody%20bag#pdp-page-content

Chic Cardigan: Amazon

Trendy Trench Coat: Nordstrom

Scarf/Pashmina: Amazon fave

Other Chic Casual Outfit Ideas:

Favorite Tripod for Easy Family Pics:

🕶️Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, easy crossbody bag, hat, light weight jacket, umbrella, and sunscreen!

To summarize, May in Paris is all about being practical, polished, and prepared for changing skies. Layers, comfort, and classic neutral tones will have you fitting right in while staying cozy and stylish.

One Arrived:

✈️AIRPORT TO APARTMENT:

We took a taxi van from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the apartment we rented for the week in Paris. The ride took about 45 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost around €60–€70 for our family of five. It was comfortable, convenient, and gave us a first glimpse of the city as we headed toward the heart of Paris — the perfect start to our adventure!

We rented a beautiful apartment just off a charming street with breathtaking window views of the Eiffel. See photos here:

🗣️ LANGUAGE & ETIQUETTE

I was pleasantly surprised to find that many Parisians speak English—perhaps a reflection of Paris’s international presence or the influence of modern global culture. Still, learning a few basic French phrases goes a long way in showing cultural respect and appreciation Greet first! Always say “Bonjour” (daytime) or “Bonsoir” (evening) before speaking — especially when entering shops or cafés. Politeness goes a long way: Add “s’il vous plaît” (please) and “merci” (thank you). Finally, whatever you do, don’t be loud or yell: Americans tend to be louder — try to lower your volume indoors. Here are some basic French charms to help you:

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann: 🛍️

🍽 FOOD & DRINK|

Café culture: Meals are slower paced — enjoy it! Don’t expect speedy service. Tap water is safe: Ask for une carafe d’eau (free water pitcher) instead of paying for bottled water. Avoid eating on the go: It’s considered rude. Take time to sit and enjoy. Try local spring produce: Think strawberries, pomegranates, asparagus, and artichokes. The food is amazing and tastes so fresh!

Tipping: Service is included in the bill (service compris), but you can round up or leave €1–2 for good service.

🛍 SHOPPING & MONEY

Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Cash is still useful: Especially for small purchases, markets, or restrooms. Shopping hours: Many stores close on Sundays. Plan ahead!

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann– Mall Experience

• What it is: A luxury department store that feels like a cathedral of fashion.
• Highlights: Designer brands, French perfumes, gourmet food hall, and a free rooftop terrace with amazing city views.
• Location: 9th arrondissement, near Opéra Garnier.
• Pro Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and check out the glass dome inside!

Boulevard Haussmann, near Opéra Garnier. Famous For: Its stunning glass dome, fashion-forward designer collections, gourmet food hall, and panoramic rooftop terrace (free entry!). Tip: Go to the rooftop for one of the best free views of the Eiffel Tower and Paris skyline. Also, there are several restaurants on the rooftop that are incredible with rooftop views!

🧭 GETTING AROUND 🚊

Metro is efficient & cheap: We mostly used the Metro (and walked). Buy a carnet of 10 tickets or a multi-day pass (Navigo Easy). Apps to download: Citymapper, Bonjour RATP, Google Translate (offline mode). Taxis vs Uber: Both are available. Taxis are easier to find at stands. Walking is incredible: Paris is best explored on foot — I cannot emphasize enough to bring comfortable walking shoes.Ubers are available as well!

Pro Tip: Consider downloading apps for train and the metro. 💡

📸 MUST-DO SPRING EXPERIENCES

Picnic in the park: Try Jardin du Luxembourg or Champ de Mars. Bring a light blanket and snacks for a fantastic memorable picnic !

Spring blooms: Cherry blossoms near Notre Dame or Jardin des Plantes. Seine River cruise: Especially in the evening for Eiffel Tower sparkle. Rooftop views: Galeries Lafayette terrace or Sacré-Cœur steps. Eat outdoors: Patio dining is a must-do in springtime!

Tuileries Gardens:

You don’t want to miss the gorgeous Tuileries Gardens right next to the famous Louvre Museum. They sit side by side in the heart of Paris and offer a perfect blend of art, history, and beauty. Here’s what makes each spot so special: It is one of Paris’ most beautiful parks and the perfect place to take a walk, have a picnic, or even get engaged! 💍

(Picture seen below is a re-enactment of my husband’s marriage proposal 18 years ago!)😍

Eiffel Tower Tour:

To tour the Eiffel Tower, start by booking your tickets online in advance — this helps skip the long lines. You can choose to visit the 2nd floor or go all the way to the summit for breathtaking views of Paris. There are elevators and stairs (if you’re up for the climb!).

Most tours include insights into the tower’s history, architecture, and panoramic landmarks. Guided tours offer great information and often include access to priority elevators.

☀️For the best experience: Visit at sunset or night for a sparkling view. Stop at the 1st floor glass walkway and grab a snack at the café. Don’t forget your camera — the views are stunning!

🎡 Fun Facts About the Eiffel Tower

1. It was never meant to be permanent
   Gustave Eiffel built it for the 1889 World’s Fair, and it was supposed to be dismantled after 20 years!
2. It changes size with the weather
   The tower can expand by up to 6 inches (15 cm) in hot weather due to the metal heating up.
3. It sparkles every night
   Every hour on the hour after sunset, the Eiffel Tower twinkles with 20,000 lights for five minutes — magical!
4. It used to be the tallest building in the world
   At 1,083 feet (330 meters) tall, it held the title until the Chrysler Building in NYC surpassed it in 1930.
5. You can climb it — all 674 steps to the second floor!
   Or, take the elevator to save your legs and enjoy the views.
6. It was once yellow
   Over the years, it’s been painted many colors — including yellow-brown and red! Today it’s a custom shade called “Eiffel Tower Brown.”
7. It’s repainted every 7 years
   Using 60 tons of paint each time to protect it from rust.
8. Céline Dion performed at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking her first public performance since 2020.

Family Photoshoot: 📸

📸 Why a Family Photoshoot in Paris Is Totally Worth It!

Let’s be honest — Paris is dreamy, and having professional photos taken while you’re there just makes sense. Here’s why it’s such a great idea:

1. No more awkward selfies

A pro photographer makes sure everyone is in the shot! You get real smiles, genuine moments — no weird angles or blurry pics. A bonus: It helps someone else besides Mom trying to get the kids to smile!

2. They know all the best spots

From secret corners in Montmartre to perfect Eiffel Tower angles, local photographers know exactly where to go — and when the lighting’s just right. You get amazing backdrops without the stress.

3. Way better than phone pics

Professionally edited, high-quality photos? Yes please. These are the kind of pics you’ll actually want to frame, post, or turn into your holiday card.

4. You get to just enjoy the moment

No juggling tripods, timers, or asking strangers. You can just have fun together while someone else captures the magic.

5. The best souvenir ever

Forget the snow globes — your photos will last forever. It’s the sweetest way to remember your trip together.

6. Affordable

Research photographers who specialize in family or vacation photography (try platforms like Flytographer, Airbnb Experiences, or Instagram). Check portfolios and reviews to find a style you love. Contact them directly via website or message to confirm availability, pricing, and preferred locations (like Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, or Luxembourg Gardens). Book in advance, especially for golden hour or weekend shoots. Confirm meeting point, outfit tips, and weather plan.

Most shoots last 30–90 minutes and deliver edited digital photos within a week! 
The Paris Photographer we chose Maud and she can be found here.

Maud Ovelacq

Perfumery Tour:

🌸 How to Book a Perfumery Tour in Paris

1. Choose your perfumery

Some of the most famous options include:

• Fragonard Perfume Museum (Musée du Parfum) – Free tours + paid workshops near Opéra Garnier.
• Maison Guerlain – Iconic boutique on Champs-Élysées with private tours and bespoke experiences.
• Maison Molinard or Galimard – Offer “create your own perfume” workshops.
• Le Studio des Parfums – Personal fragrance creation in the Marais.

2. Visit their website or booking platform

• Most perfumeries offer online booking through their websites.
• You can also find tours on Viator, GetYourGuide, Airbnb Experiences, or TripAdvisor.

3. Select your experience

Options include:

• Guided tour with perfume history.
• Hands-on workshop to create your own scent.
• VIP or private sessions.

4. Pick a time + language

Many tours are available in English, but confirm when booking. Some experiences fill up quickly, so book early — especially in spring and summer.

5. Show up and breathe it all in!

Arrive on time, and be ready to experience the artistry behind French fragrance — it’s both fun and luxurious!

To complete our perfumes, it took about 2 hours. Totally worth every minute!

🧠 BONUS TIPS:

Etiquette: Parisians aren’t rude — they’re reserved: Show respect and effort, and you’ll be treated kindly. Bathrooms are scarce: Many cafés charge unless you’re a customer. Keep €0.50–€1 coins handy. Sunday slow-down: Many museums, restaurants, and shops close or open late. Don’t rely on air conditioning: Most places don’t have it, but it’s rarely needed in spring.

Safety: While Paris is generally safe, it’s important to stay alert in crowded areas like the metro, tourist attractions, and busy streets — pickpocketing can happen quickly and discreetly. Keep your belongings close and your loved ones closer! Use a crossbody bag with a zipper Don’t keep valuables in your back pocket Stay aware when someone distracts you or gets too close. A awareness goes a long way in keeping your trip smooth and stress-free.

Recap!

Day 1: Eiffel Tower, Seine River & Trocadéro

Eiffel Tower – Book tickets in advance for the summit. Champ de Mars – Perfect for photos or a picnic. Trocadéro Gardens – Best Eiffel Tower views at sunrise/sunset but you must get there early! We got there at 8am for our morning gamily photoshoot and there was already people gathering for pictures .

Seine River Cruise – Take an evening ride to see the Eiffel sparkle on the hour after dusk. Tips: Arrive early or book a skip-the-line tour. Bring a scarf or jacket — it’s windy at the top! Cruises with commentary are great for first-time visitors.

Day 2: Louvre Museum & Palais Royal

Louvre Museum – Home to the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and more. It’s the largest art museum in the world — with over 35,000 works on display.

The building itself was a former royal palace, and you can still see remnants of the medieval castle underground.

The glass pyramid, added in 1989, is now an iconic Paris landmark — and a perfect photo spot.

Fun Fact: If you spent 30 seconds viewing each piece in the Louvre, it would take you over 100 days to see everything!

Tips: Reserve Louvre tickets online. Go early or on a weekday. Download the Louvre app or bring a map — it’s massive! Consider a guided highlights tour if short on time.

Day 3: Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle & Latin Quarter

Notre-Dame Cathedral – Under renovation, but still worth seeing. Sainte-Chapelle – Stunning stained glass. Latin Quarter – Historic, student vibe, with narrow streets and bookshops. Shakespeare & Company – Iconic English-language bookstore.

Tips: Sainte-Chapelle tickets can be bundled with Conciergerie. Take time to wander Rue Mouffetard or Place de la Contrescarpe. Great area for crepes and budget-friendly eats.

Day 4: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Free entry, panoramic views of Paris. Place du Tertre – Artists painting on cobbled squares. Rue de l’Abreuvoir & La Maison Rose – Quaint, charming photo spots. Wall of Love – “I love you” in over 250 languages.

Tips: Wear good shoes — the area is hilly. Avoid souvenir traps near the basilica. Sunrise here is magical and far less crowded.

Day 5: Versailles Day Trip

Palace of Versailles – The Palace of Versailles is one of the most fascinating and breathtaking places in France — here’s what makes it so special: It was once the center of royal power.

Versailles was the royal residence of King Louis XIV (the Sun King) and became the political and cultural heart of France until the French Revolution in 1789. It was designed to showcase absolute power and royal glory.Hall of Mirrors, King’s Apartments. Gardens & Fountains – Also, Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet – Fairy-tale countryside retreat can be visited during bike ride.

Tips: Take RER C train from Paris (buy round trip). Book entry + timed tickets in advance. Bring snacks — food options are limited and pricey.

Tips: The bike trip around the canal was the highlight for the kids! Rent bike for €10 an hour and see the beautiful scenic scenes with adventure!

Day 6: Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe & More Shopping

Champs-Élysées – Iconic avenue for shopping, cafés. Arc de Triomphe – Climb to the top for a 360° view. Galeries Lafayette & Printemps – Historic department stores with rooftop terraces. Le Marais (evening) – Chic neighborhood for fashion, falafel, and art.

Tips: Climb Arc de Triomphe near sunset. Galeries Lafayette rooftop = FREE view. Le Marais is closed Sunday mornings — go late afternoon or evening.

Day 7: Musée d’Orsay, Seine Stroll & Local Markets

Musée d’Orsay – Impressionist masterpieces in a converted train station. Rue Cler – Foodie street for fresh market vibes. Île Saint-Louis – Quaint island near Notre-Dame, perfect for Berthillon ice cream. Evening Seine stroll or café dinner.

Tips:Buy a combo ticket with Musée de l’Orangerie. Try a market picnic lunch. Best day for slower pace, photo ops, and winding down.

🌹Bonus Travel Tips: I forgot to mention, Paris Museum Pass saves time & money if visiting many museums. Navigo Easy metro card or 10-ticket carnet is useful for travel.

In summary, our week in Paris was everything we hoped for and more! From croissants and flower markets to picnics by the Eiffel Tower, we soaked up every minute. So many laughs, memories, and moments we’ll never forget. Paris, you were a dream—until next time!”

Make something beautiful today, for His glory. — Brit