Paris is a dream destination for travelers of all ages, but for retirees looking to explore at a slower pace, the city offers an incredible mix of world-class museums, charming markets, stunning parks, and historic neighborhoods—all perfect for leisurely days filled with culture and discovery. This 7-day itinerary is designed for those who want to immerse themselves in the heart of Paris without feeling rushed. Click here to my more detailed Paris Destination Guide.
Day 1: Classic Paris – The Louvre & Seine River Walk
Start your Parisian adventure with an easy introduction to the city’s most iconic sights.
- Morning: Visit the Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces. Book a skip-the-line ticket and enjoy a self-guided tour of its famous exhibits.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River, stopping at the historic Pont des Arts and the charming Île de la Cité.
- Evening: Dine at a classic Parisian bistro like Le Procope, one of the city’s oldest restaurants.
Day 2: Latin Quarter & Jardin du Luxembourg
Explore the heart of Parisian intellectual and artistic life.
- Morning: Visit the Musée de Cluny, dedicated to medieval art, and then explore the Latin Quarter, home to Shakespeare & Company bookstore and the historic Sorbonne University.
- Afternoon: Relax in Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. Find a shady spot near the fountains and watch the world go by.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Les Papilles, a cozy wine bistro near the Luxembourg Gardens.
Day 3: Montmartre & Artistic Paris
Discover the bohemian charm of Montmartre.
- Morning: Take a self-guided walking tour of Montmartre, visiting Sacré-Cœur, the charming Place du Tertre, and hidden gems like Musée de Montmartre.
- Afternoon: Stop by the Dali Museum or explore the Musée de l’Orangerie in central Paris to see Monet’s famous water lilies.
- Evening: Enjoy a classic Parisian cabaret at Au Lapin Agile, a historic venue once frequented by Picasso.
Day 4: Market Day & Marais Exploration
Experience Parisian life through its vibrant markets and historic districts.
- Morning: Visit Marché des Enfants Rouges, the city’s oldest covered market, and sample delicious French specialties.
- Afternoon: Explore the Marais district, known for its beautiful mansions, boutique shopping, and museums like the Musée Carnavalet (Paris history museum).
- Evening: Dine at Chez Janou, a lively Provençal-style restaurant.
Day 5: Left Bank & Impressionist Treasures
Dive into Impressionist art and elegant Parisian streets.
- Morning: Visit Musée d’Orsay, home to masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir.
- Afternoon: Stroll along Boulevard Saint-Germain, stopping for a coffee at the famous Café de Flore.
- Evening: Enjoy a Seine River dinner cruise, offering breathtaking views of Paris at night.
Day 6: Gardens, Shopping & Hidden Gems
A day dedicated to nature, shopping, and lesser-known Parisian spots.
- Morning: Explore the peaceful Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, a hidden gem with waterfalls and bridges.
- Afternoon: Go shopping at Galeries Lafayette or Le Bon Marché, two of Paris’ most elegant department stores.
- Evening: Try a gourmet food tasting experience in the Saint-Germain district.
Day 7: Day Trip to Versailles or Giverny
End your trip with a visit to one of France’s most stunning historical sites.
- Option 1: Versailles – Tour the Palace of Versailles, its opulent halls, and breathtaking gardens.
- Option 2: Giverny – Visit Monet’s home and gardens, the inspiration for his famous paintings.
- Evening: Return to Paris for a final dinner at Le Grand Véfour, a historic fine-dining restaurant.
Final Thoughts
Paris is a city best savored at a relaxed pace. This 7-day itinerary ensures you experience its world-renowned museums, charming neighborhoods, and scenic parks, while allowing plenty of time to soak in the beauty of the city. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, exploring Montmartre, or enjoying a leisurely café lunch, Paris has something magical to offer every traveler. Click here for the my detailed Things to Do in Paris.
#ParisTravel #SlowTravel #ParisForRetirees #ParisMuseums #ParisWalkingTours #LuxuryOnABudget