Priya Malhotra
Europe Travel Writer
Paris needs no introduction — the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, croissants warm from the oven, and boulevards built for strolling at golden hour. Europe's most visited city rewards travellers with layers of beauty, art, history, and food that unfold across every arrondissement. Here's how to see it right in 6 days.
Best Time to Visit Paris
**Spring (April–June)** is the most beloved time — cherry blossoms along the Seine, warm café terraces, and the city at its most vibrant. **September–October** is equally beautiful with golden autumn light, fewer tourists than summer, and the start of fashion week. **Summer (July–August)** is crowded and hot (up to 35°C), but museums are open late and the city buzzes with energy. **Winter (December–February)** is grey and cold but Christmas markets and the illuminated Champs-Élysées are magical.
6-Day Paris Itinerary
Day-by-Day Plan
| Day | Theme | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Iconic Paris | Eiffel Tower (sunset tickets), Champ de Mars picnic, Trocadéro viewpoint |
| Day 2 | Art & History | Louvre Museum (pre-book), Palais Royal gardens, Marais district, Place des Vosges |
| Day 3 | Right Bank | Sacré-Cœur & Montmartre, artists' square, Moulin Rouge area, Seine evening cruise |
| Day 4 | Versailles Day Trip | Palace of Versailles (half-day), Hall of Mirrors, gardens, return for Left Bank dinner |
| Day 5 | Left Bank & Culture | Musée d'Orsay, Saint-Germain-des-Prés cafés, Luxembourg Gardens, Latin Quarter |
| Day 6 | Shopping & Farewell | Champs-Élysées, Galeries Lafayette rooftop, Sainte-Chapelle, evening flight |
Schengen Visa for Indians
Indian citizens require a **Schengen Tourist Visa (Category C)** to visit France. Apply at the French Consulate or via VFS Global at least 3–4 weeks before travel. Required documents include a valid passport (6+ months validity), confirmed accommodation, return flights, travel insurance (min €30,000 cover), and 3 months' bank statements. Visa fee is approximately ₹8,000. A valid Schengen visa also allows travel to 26 other European countries.
Budget Guide
Daily Cost in Paris
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €40–70 (hostel/budget hotel) | €120–250 (hotel) | €300–800+ |
| Meals | €20–35 (brasserie/café) | €50–90 | €120–300+ |
| Transport (Metro) | €10–15 | €15–25 | €40–80 (taxis) |
| Attractions | €20–40 | €50–90 | €100–200 |
| Total (approx ₹) | ₹8,000–14,000/day | ₹25,000–50,000/day | ₹60,000–1,30,000/day |
Paris Food Guide
- **Croissants & Pain au Chocolat** — buy from a local boulangerie every morning; avoid tourist-area bakeries
- **French Onion Soup** — rich, caramelised perfection; best at Café de Flore or Au Pied de Cochon
- **Steak Frites** — a Parisian bistro classic; try Le Relais de l'Entrecôte for the legendary butter sauce
- **Crêpes** — sweet (Nutella, strawberry) or savoury (ham, cheese); abundant on Montmartre and Left Bank
- **Macarons** — Pierre Hermé and Ladurée are the gold standard; Fauchon is excellent and slightly cheaper
- **Wine & Cheese** — visit a fromagerie for aged Comté, Camembert, and Brie to picnic by the Seine
Pro Tip
Pre-book the Eiffel Tower summit tickets at least 2–3 weeks in advance — sunset and evening slots sell out in minutes. Also book the Louvre skip-the-line tickets to avoid 2-hour queues.