What to Do on Your First Day in Paris

By Mathilde Vuillemenot | Last update on November 7, 2024

 

When you step off the plane, it feels like a dream come true. After all those months, or even years, of dreaming and planning, you’re finally in Paris. If you’ve come from afar, jet lag may come along too. That’s why the pace of your first day in Paris is so important. After a long flight, it’s key to balance your energy, easing into the Parisian rhythm to ensure you’re not exhausted for the days ahead. 

In this guide, I’ll share my top tips to ease your arrival—from navigating the airport to reaching the heart of the city. I’ve also crafted an itinerary for an epic day in Paris, designed to help you fully enjoy the city while keeping jet lag in check. From the simple pleasure of a morning café to a scenic introduction to the city’s landmarks, my suggested itinerary is all about soaking in the Parisian spirit at a relaxed pace. C’est parti !

 

Paris Airport Arrival: Main Tips

The first Parisian experience you’ll likely have is at the airport, probably Charles de Gaulle (CDG), the largest airport in Europe. And just like in the city itself, there’s a bit of walking involved right from the start!

Your first stop will be passport control. The line for non-EU visitors can be long, but this isn’t unique to Paris, most major international airports have long queues for foreign arrivals. I’ve seen posts on forums and Facebook groups saying Paris’s customs process is the “worst,” but I’d like to set the record straight! CDG might not be perfect, but it’s certainly not the worst. Plus, if you’re a U.S. citizen, you could have access to automated passport kiosks, which can speed things up. There’s also a concierge service that offers a fast track, should you prefer an even quicker option, for around $300 USD.

After customs, it’s time to collect your luggage. By the time you get through the passport control, your bags are likely waiting for you. I know there’s a bit of paranoia, about luggage delays at CDG, but remember, lost luggage is really rare. Don’t limit yourself to just a carry-on because of isolated stories: bring a bigger suitcase with everything you need (and leave space for souvenirs!). That said, it’s smart to keep a small essentials bag for the first 24 hours (including underwear, travel-sized toiletries, and any medications) in your carry-on. If you’re worried, an Apple AirTag or similar tracker can be a great way to keep an eye on your luggage’s location.

 

From Paris Airport to the City Center

With your bags in hand, it’s time to head into the heart of Paris. After a long flight, I recommend skipping public transportation, even if you’re excited and ready to dive in. The Paris metro has plenty of stairs, and with heavy luggage, it can quickly become a challenge. Do yourself a favor and take a taxi, Uber, or private transfer for a smoother start.

Here’s a quick guide to taxi fares: official rates to central Paris are regulated for taxis ; from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport, expect to pay:

  • 56€ to Paris’s right bank
  • 65€ to Paris’s left bank

There may be extra charges for vans, premium taxis, more than four passengers, additional stops, or advanced bookings, but there’s never an extra fee for luggage.

Important tip: Only use the official taxi line at the airport. Don’t accept rides from anyone offering a “taxi” inside the terminal, as these can be scams. It’s frustrating that this happens, but being aware will help you avoid it.

Now, the big question is: where to go first? If your hotel or Airbnb offers early check-in, head straight there. You can drop off your luggage and, most importantly, freshen up with a shower, a perfect way to shake off the long journey and feel energized.

But if early check-in isn’t an option, I recommend heading to central Paris, around the Louvre area. This neighborhood is an ideal starting point for your first day, filled with iconic sights and the quintessential Parisian atmosphere. Plus, you’ll find convenient luggage lockers (like Nannybag) where you can safely store your bags for the day. This way, you’re free to dive right into exploring, without the burden of luggage slowing you down.

 

First Day in Paris Itinerary

Now comes the most important part: enjoying your first day in Paris, while being kind to yourself after the long flight. The best way to ease in is by spending time in central Paris, around classic landmarks like the Louvre. This neighborhood is packed with things to do, all in the quintessential Parisian style.

First day in Paris itinerary

Start with a breakfast or a snack: plane meals are usually light, so you might be hungry by now. And even if you're not, eating something local is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Parisian mood. Take your time; you’re in Paris. Embrace the joie de vivre and art de vivre.

Here are some ideas:

  • Picnic-style in a garden: Pick up something delicious from a nearby bakery and enjoy it while sitting on the famous green chairs in one of Paris charming public gardens. Near Palais Royal, BoetMie has excellent croissants and pastries, or try the bakery named Baguett’. Near the Tuileries Garden, you’ll find Cédric Grolet Café or Ladurée for an indulgent start.
  • Classic café experience: Settle into a cozy café for a tartine, a croissant, or even a crêpe. Café du Louvre or Café de l’Époque are perfect spots to sip coffee and watch the world go by. You’re surrounded by Parisians and visitors alike, taking in the city at their own pace. In this neighborhood, there’s also Angelina, famous for its chocolat chaud (hot chocolate), but it usually has a long queue, so it might not be the best option after a long flight.

Once you’ve recharged, take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Garden and/or the Palais Royal Garden. This is ideal for your first photos, especially with the famous Buren Columns in Palais Royal and the galleries around the Louvre pyramid as a great starting point.

These gardens are delightful in any weather, so even if it rains, make the most of it... Paris has a way of looking beautiful, even under gray skies! And rainy photos at the Buren Columns can turn out surprisingly well. If the rain isn’t for you, consider exploring the charming Galerie Vivienne, a covered 19th-century passage filled with shops and cafés in a gorgeous historic setting.

Then, for a gentle overview of the city, take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. This relaxing option lets you enjoy an overview of Paris: you'll get a feel for the city’s layout and the locations of its major landmarks. Simply stay on the bus, listen to the commentary, and take in the views all around you. Your body will thank you for the gentle pace! And if you feel up for it, you can always hop off at one or two iconic stops, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral or the Arc de Triomphe.

Paris has two main hop-on-hop-off bus companies: Big Bus and Tootbus. Both have convenient stops near Opéra, where you can hop on to start your tour. You can buy your tickets either at the bus stop or online in advance.

For those like me who like to have a snack on hand, consider grabbing a quick bite before the bus tour. Stop by a bakery and pick up French food like a classic jambon-fromage (ham and cheese baguette) or jambon-beurre (ham and butter baguette), along with a pastry for dessert. For a truly authentic experience, Le Petit Vendôme is an excellent spot to grab a delicious takeaway sandwich. While there may be a bit of a line, it’s worth the wait 😉. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water: hydration is key, especially when jet-lagged. I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle for your trip, as there are plenty of spots in Paris where you can refill it. You can use this map to find public fountains: fontaine.eaudeparis.fr, and you can always fill it with tap water at your hotel or Airbnb.

After the bus tour, it will likely be mid-afternoon, making it the perfect time for a “quiet” yet unforgettable experience: seeing Paris from above, especially if the skies are clear. Head to the Montparnasse Tower, where you can take an elevator to the 56th floor for a stunning 360-degree view of Paris. This high vantage point will let you spot the landmarks you passed on the bus. For a unique twist, you can also experience Paris through time with their VR exhibit. If you’d like to make the visit even more special, why not celebrate with a glass of Champagne? And if you’re up for a little effort, climb two more floors to the open-air terrace for a panoramic outdoor view, perfect for taking memorable photos.

If the weather doesn’t cooperate or if you prefer a different kind of experience, a cheese tasting is a delightful way to round off your day. You’ll dive into one of the highlights of French gastronomy (did you know there are over 1,200 types of cheese in France?!). Two highly rated options are:

Note : this activity absolutely needs to be booked in advance. While it’s not strictly necessary to book ahead of time the other plans mentioned in this guide (although it can help you avoid potential queues), this one is a must to secure beforehand.

As your first day in Paris winds down, it’s time to head to your hotel or Airbnb. (And if you left your luggage in a locker, don’t forget to pick it up!) 

The evening plan depends on how much energy you have left. If jet lag is catching up with you, a simple option is to pick up some food from a nearby bakery or supermarket (look for Carrefour Market, Franprix, or Monoprix) and enjoy a relaxed meal back at your accommodation. It’s always helpful to check ahead for nearby supermarkets and bakeries around where you’re staying, so you don’t have to hunt for options when you’re tired. After a refreshing shower, settle in, savor your dinner, and unwind in your room or apartment.

If you’re still feeling energetic, stop by your accommodation to freshen up, then head out for dinner at a restaurant close by. Important tip: French restaurants typically start serving dinner around 7 pm. I recommend checking nearby dining options before you arrive in Paris. That way, at the end of your first day, you won’t be scrambling to make a choice (even if you’re unsure of what you’ll want to eat, shortlist a couple of places that catch your interest).

Et voilà! You’ve just enjoyed your first day in Paris, sampling French flavors, soaking in the local lifestyle in the gardens, and discovering iconic sights. Try to stay up until at least 10 pm to help your body adjust to Paris time. The plan I suggested should keep you from overdoing it, so you’ll have plenty of energy for the days ahead. Welcome to Paris!

 

Final Tips for a First-Time Visitor

  • Getting Around Paris City: Most sights on this itinerary are accessible by metro or bus. However, with jet lag and the excitement of a new city, navigating public transportation on your first day can feel a bit overwhelming. If you can, treat yourself to a taxi ride between activities: it’s a comfortable way to ease into the Parisian pace without added stress.

  • Coping with Jet Lag: Staying hydrated and taking in fresh air throughout the day are key to adjusting smoothly. If fatigue hits hard, a short nap of no more than 20 minutes can help refresh you without disrupting your sleep schedule. Try to stay awake until the evening to adapt to the Paris time as quickly as possible.

  • Staying Safe: In busy areas and on public transportation, be mindful of pickpockets. Keep your handbag zipped and close to your body (a cross-body bag works well), and avoid keeping valuables in accessible pockets. If you need to check directions or your belongings, step aside from crowded areas so you don’t draw attention.