I’ve put together a Paris Travel Kit for your trip—something I wish I had when I was there in October 2025. You can screenshot it along the way, or download an easy printout to get great resources…and secretly join my mailing list- Muahaha! (which would be awesome!). I don’t spam—just occasional travel tips and free resources like this. Love you guys, and Happy Adventuring! -Lydia Keen
What We’ll Cover:
- Best Packing List for Paris
- Top Must-Have Travel Essentials
- Fashion Tips & Recommendations
- Where to Stay in Paris
- Build-Your-Own Paris Itinerary
- 3-Day Sample Itinerary
- FAQ – Museum Pass
- Get Your Guide Experiences
- Views from the Top of the Eiffel Tower
- French Sayings Cheat Sheet for Travelers
- Sainte-Chapelle Full Guide
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Best Packing List for Paris
I’ve put together a simple Paris packing list for a one-week trip with all of the essentials. Everyone’s essentials are a bit different, and what you pack definitely changes with the season, but these are the things I always reach for. Hopefully, it helps you out when you’re planning your next trip!
Grab Your Full-Resolution Paris Travel Kit – Free Download!
My Top Must-Have Travel Essentials for Paris
Airalo eSIM: This was a total pain for me at first because I messed up my settings—but now that I’ve figured it out and learned to follow the instructions, it’s hands-down my favorite eSIM. It really works! My main issues were having my VPN turned on and forgetting to delete the eSIM when I was done. Trust me—if you don’t, your phone gets confused and you end up looking like me, wandering into the AT&T store like a dope.
2 Pack European Plug Adapter: A 2-pack European plug adapter is essential in Paris so you can keep your phone, camera, and other devices charged without hunting for the right outlet.
Get your Metro card: Trust me on this one—I made the classic rookie mistake when I landed at the airport. I grabbed one of those flimsy train tickets thinking it was my Metro card… nope. You’ll actually get a slightly thicker, rechargable card called a Navigo Easy (or you can also use a Paris Visite pass for tourists), which makes hopping on and off the Metro, RER, and buses so much smoother.
Museum Pass: Read on to see what I think about the museum pass, and whether it might be worth it if you’re planning a museum marathon like we did. It may be better to book individually.
Apple Bag Tags (Set of 4 on Amazon): Just slip one in your bag—that’s all. Easy peace of mind.
Personal Safety Alarm: Paris feels safe, but it never hurts to be prepared. Just pull the pin if you need help—it’s simple and reassuring.
RFID Blocker Set for Passport & Cards: Protect your cards and passport from unwanted scans.
Must-Have Pocket Guide: Rick Steves Pocket Guide! Seriously, it’s a lifesaver for exploring and understanding the city.
Stylish Collapsible Tote Bag on Amazon: My all-time favorite! It’s stylish and folds out when you need extra space for shopping—no more juggling a bunch of ugly bags.
Packing Cubes- Top Rated on Amazon: These are the best. They let you fit so much more into your suitcase while keeping things organized.
Samsonite Carry-on Suitcase: I always squeeze everything into my Samsonite. It’s a challenge I enjoy, and carrying a smaller suitcase in a foreign city just feels easier. But if you prefer a two-piece luggage set, go for it.
Fashion Tips + Recommendations!
I LOVE scarves—they’re my go-to for adding a pop of color to a neutral palette. Pair one with a trench coat, and you’ve got effortless Parisian vibes. This one even has a secret pocket—fashion and function!
Red Chasmere- Feel Scarf on Amazon: This scarf is absolutely delightful and gives me that pop of color I love! It came in handy so many ways on my trip—I used it as a skirt, and even as a hair towel when we ran out. Truly a travel essential!
Vegan Leather Small Crossbody Bags: This one is super cute and practical. Paris is amazing, but pickpockets are real. Keep your belongings close.
Slouchy Beanie: Instead of a beret, I go for a soft beanie. My head’s on the bigger side, so I avoid the headaches, especially when climbing the Eiffel Tower. Comfort and style can coexist.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: I wore these Mary Janes. Some may call them “grandma shoes,” but they saved my feet, and I still dressed them up. Comfort wins every time.
BEST Clarks Walking Boots for the Fall Season: These boots definitely need a little breaking in—a few weeks ahead works best! Once they’re ready, they’re super comfortable and very cute.
Where to Stay in Paris?
I personally LOVE staying in Airbnbs when I travel—they let you really get into the architecture and sometimes you can find the most unique, one-of-a-kind spots. That said, hotels have their perks too! With a hotel, you can often guarantee a proper bath (a little luxury I personally enjoy after a full day of wandering), more space, and a bit of pampering—all for around the same price if you plan far enough ahead.
If you’re leaning toward hotels in Paris, here are my top picks—organized by vibe and location. I did some research, chatted with friends, and pulled together spots that felt special, practical, and, at the time of writing, affordable if you book early (excluding the Disney Experience)
1. Hôtel Le Temple de Jeanne – Marais Charm
Right in the heart of the Marais, this boutique hotel is steps from cafes, shops, and historic streets. I love staying here if I want to wander, explore hidden corners, and soak up classic Parisian vibes. Perfect for anyone who wants to feel like a local in the city center.
2. Select Hotel – Rive Gauche – Museum Vibes
This one feels like staying inside a tiny museum—beautifully curated, elegant, and full of character. Great for history and art lovers who want a calm, inspiring space to come back to after exploring the city.
3. Hôtel Du Cadran – Eiffel Tower Proximity
Cozy, centrally located, and just a short stroll to the Eiffel Tower. Minimalist, chic, and with a nice bath to relax in after climbing the 674 steps. This would be my top choice if I wanted a simple, clean base for sightseeing around the tower and the Seine.
4. Villa Beaumarchais – Central Comfort
A lovely option that balances comfort with convenience. Still in the center, close to the Marais and metro lines, making it easy to explore Paris at your own pace.
5. Les Ateliers de Montmartre – Artsy Montmartre
This one’s perfect if you want a quieter, artsy vibe. Wander the charming streets of Montmartre, sip coffee in little cafes, and browse local art shops—without feeling too far from the heart of Paris.
6. Mom’Art Hotel – Montmartre Chic
Another Montmartre favorite, this one has a more modern, stylish feel. Close to Sacré-Cœur and the fun of the artsy neighborhood, but still comfortable for a relaxed stay.
7. Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel – Disney Fun
If you’re here for the full Disney experience, this is the spot. Super themed, fun for kids and adults alike, and all about immersing yourself in the magic.
8. Disneyland Hotel – Luxe Disney
Want to splurge? This is as fancy as it gets. Walking distance to the parks, full luxury, and a real treat if you want to make your Disney trip unforgettable.
Tips for Booking:
- Book far in advance to lock in better rates.
- Think about the vibe you want: central and bustling, quiet and artsy, or full-on Disney immersion.
- Consider what’s important to you: a proper bath, more space, or being steps from the Seine.
The Paris Itinerary: Build-Your-Own
I put together this Paris guide with a mix of the classics and a few spots that feel a little more tucked away—like the Musée de Marmottan, which I added simply because my visit there was unforgettable.
This graphic is really a build-your-own checklist rather than a strict itinerary. You’ll find the big icons—the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur—alongside some sweet little gems like the “I Love You” Wall in Montmartre and even the quirky Paris Sewer Museum. I also added a handful of free things to do, because saving a few euros while wandering Paris is always a win.
Since I’m vegetarian, I included a small list of foods to try from both sides, just in case it’s helpful. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are a few half-day and full-day trip ideas sprinkled in too.
I wanted this format to feel flexible, since everyone travels differently. But if you prefer something more structured, I added a simple three-day sample itinerary below so you can get a feel for what a weekend in Paris might look like.
Print it out, tuck it into your bag, and keep it close as you wander Montmartre, sip coffee by the Seine, or watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. I hope it makes planning a little easier—and your trip a lot more magical. Hope you Enjoy! Xo
Grab Your Full-Resolution Paris Travel Kit – Free Download!
FAQ – Lydia: That’s a lot of museums! Do I need a Museum Pass?
When we went, we bought a 6-day museum pass, and honestly, like Rick Steves’ site says, it’s kind of lost its magic—unless you’re doing a full-on museum marathon, which we actually did to make it worth it! But here’s the thing: we wanted to go back to the Musée d’Orsay the next day because we’d missed the Sargent exhibit. After waiting in line for 30 minutes, they told us the pass only lets you visit once. We politely hassled them a bit and somehow got in—thank goodness, because that exhibit ended up being my absolute favorite of the entire trip.
I was definitely a little disappointed overall. My advice? Book directly with the museums or use Get Your Guide for a guided tour—it just makes life easier. We made it work in the end, but my boyfriend keeps insisting the pass was “the greatest deal ever,” so maybe it depends on how you like to explore!
3-Day Paris Sample Itinerary
As I mentioned above, I wanted to include a little sample itinerary to show what a slower, long-weekend trip to Paris might look like. When my boyfriend and I went, we were all over the place trying to squeeze in everything we possibly could during the week—and honestly, it was a blast. But if I were to go back and give myself permission to slow down a bit, breathe more, and really soak in the magic of the city, I think a three-day adventure would look something like the graphic below 🙂
And if you find yourself with pockets of extra time here and there, I really recommend looking at Get Your Guide services for Paris. I loved browsing their site—it really gave me a sense of how much a great guide can make a trip special. Someone who brings the history to life, helps you meet other travelers, and turns sightseeing into a real experience. We used them a few times while I was in Paris! I’ll never forget the Seine River cruise, our stroll through the Old Town & Latin Quarter, and how we snagged Sainte-Chapelle tickets through them when they were sold out everywhere else.
See my Full Blog Post to see the Most Popular Guided Tours in Paris
Here are a few more 4-5 star Get Your Guide experiences I’m excited to try next time:
Notre Dame Exterior and/or Interior Guided Tour with Entry
Paris: 3-Course-Dinner Cruise on the Seine with live music
From Paris: Versailles Palace Guided Tour & Gardens Access
Feel free to plug these Get Your Guide Experiences into your itinerary where you see fit. It’s so worth it!
Here’s how I’d shape a cozy, memorable 3-day Paris escape- The full detailed download is below!
Day 1 – Eiffel Tower & The Seine (Climb 674 Steps of the Eiffel Tower- Full Blog Post)
- Morning: Eiffel Tower – climb or elevator for views
- Midday: Trocadéro photos → Arc de Triomphe → Champs-Élysées
- Evening: Seine River cruise at sunset
- Travel: Eiffel Tower → Arc de Triomphe = 10 min metro / 25 min walk
Day 2 – Louvre & Historic Center
- Morning: Louvre Museum – Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory
- Midday: Tuileries Garden & lunch nearby
- Afternoon: Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle on Île de la Cité
- Evening: Dinner in Latin Quarter or Saint-Michel
- Travel: Louvre → Île de la Cité = 15–20 min walk
Day 3 – Musée d’Orsay & Montmartre
- Morning: Musée d’Orsay – Impressionist art
- Midday: Lunch & café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- Afternoon: Montmartre – Sacré-Cœur, Place du Tertre, art shops
- Evening: Dinner or sunset at Sacré-Cœur
- Travel: Musée d’Orsay → Montmartre = 25–30 min metro
Tips
A little French goes far: “Bonjour,” “Merci,” “S’il vous plaît”
Book timed tickets online for major sites
Metro = fast & cheap
Wear comfy shoes (10k–15k steps/day!)
Grab Your Full-Resolution Paris Travel Kit – Free Download!
Views from the Top of the Eiffel Tower
I searched everywhere for a simple guide to help me spot the landmarks from the top of the Eiffel Tower, and the only thing I could find was Rick Steves’ little pocket guide. Honestly, it turned the whole experience into this fun eye-spy adventure—looking north, south, east, and west and suddenly realizing how the whole city fits together. It made Paris feel so much more alive.
So… I made a cute graphic for you! It’s a little printout (no photos, just a clean list) of what you can see from each direction at the top of the tower. Screenshot it, tuck it in your bag, or grab the full Paris Travel Kit I made. Bring it with you and enjoy your wanderings. It was made with a lot of love and—okay—a tiny bit of frustration, because my computer didn’t save the first version and I had to start all over again. 😂
Grab Your Full-Resolution Paris Travel Kit – Free Download!
I also made a YouTube guide with some of the incredible history behind the tower. We decided to take the 674 steps up to the second floor and—if you’re able—I highly recommend it. In the video, I talk about why it’s so worth it, what to bring, and a few little tips to make the climb a bit easier.
And if you’re more of a reader, I wrote a full blog post with everything you need to know about the 674-step adventure. You can check it out Here.
North
- Seine River
- Trocadéro Gardens
- Palais de Chaillot
- La Défense skyline
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Northeast
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
- Place de la Concorde
- Palais Royal
- Musée d’Orsay
- Pont Alexandre III
East
- Seine River
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Les Invalides
- Musée d’Orsay
- Pont Neuf
West
- Arc de Triomphe
- Champs-Élysées
- La Défense
- Bois de Boulogne
South
- Champ de Mars park
- École Militaire
- Montparnasse Tower
Eiffel Tower Facts
- Built: 1889 for the World’s Fair
- Designer: Gustave Eiffel
- Nickname: Iron Lady
- Height: 330 m / 1,083 ft
- Structure: 18,038 iron parts
- Levels:
- Shops & restaurants (57 m / 187 ft)
- Viewing platforms (115 m / 377 ft)
- Observation deck (276 m / 905 ft)
- Tickets & info: toureiffel.paris
French Cheat Sheet for Travelers
I put together a simple French cheat sheet for travelers that covers all the basics you’ll actually use. Most people speak English, but a quick Bonjour, Bonsoir, or Merci goes a long way and makes your trip more fun. I’ve also included phrases for introductions, getting around, ordering food and drinks, and even emergencies—plus easy pronunciation guides so you don’t stress. From asking “Where is…?” to ordering a coffee or saying “I need help,” these phrases are your little travel toolkit for feeling confident and enjoying Paris like a local.
Grab Your Full-Resolution Paris Travel Kit – Free Download!
Exploring Sainte-Chapelle: The Most Beautiful Chapel in Paris
Here’s a little bonus Sainte-Chapelle guide I put together for ya! I fell in love with this place years ago, back when I took an art history class in college. We did a virtual tour, and ever since then it’s been sitting on my bucket list- just waiting for its time! Finally seeing it in person took my breath away. still can’t wrap my head around how stained glass like that even exists—in such a huge space, and yet it somehow feels weightless. Part of the secret is in the design: iron supports hidden in the walls hold all that glass in place, but learn more of that from the Full Blog Post! haha
This space probably meant even more to me because I come from a family of glass artists. I grew up watching stained glass being made all around me, and I even got to try my hand at it myself—different tools than they had in medieval times, of course—but it really gives you a deeper appreciation for the craft. So walking into Sainte-Chapelle felt both familiar and completely unbelievable. It was one of those moments where everything clicked—art, history, and my own personal story all blending together at once.
So… I made a guide for Sainte-Chapelle, just for fun. I can’t help it—I always end up making the little things I wish I had when I travel. This one includes a few light history notes, some simple travel tips, and ideas for what to pair with your visit so you can make the most of your time on Île de la Cité.
You can find the full blog post tour guide on my site, and if you want a deeper dive into the history, my YouTube video goes through all of it. I really hope you enjoy it. And if you’d like a printable or a mini checklist to take with you, just let me know—I’m happy to make one.
Grab Your Full-Resolution Paris Travel Kit – Free Download!
I Hope You Enjoyed the Paris Travel Guide- With Bellatrek
Paris is a city full of magic, history, and tiny surprises around every corner. I hope this guide, my little travel kit, and all the tips I’ve shared help you explore the city at your own pace—whether you’re chasing Eiffel Tower views, wandering Montmartre’s cobblestones, or sipping coffee by the Seine. Take your time, follow your curiosity, and let Paris surprise you-and by golly- download the free travel kit. Happy adventuring, and remember—travel isn’t just about the sights, it’s about the moments you’ll remember forever.
— Lydia Keen
For More Paris Travel Info, be sure to visit my other blog posts! More coming soon 🙂
Exploring Sainte-Chapelle: The Most Beautiful Chapel in Paris
