Exploring Paris in 4 Days: The Perfect Itinerary (Tried & Loved)

Panoramic view of Paris with the Seine River, bridges, and the Eiffel Tower

What if we explored Paris without rushing? Four days in Paris? Let’s be honest — it’s ambitious. But it’s also a gift. Because in four days, with the right approach, you can capture the essence of the city. This isn’t a race against time. No overly packed schedule, no checklist-style sightseeing. This itinerary was crafted the way we plan a truly good trip: with care, with high standards — and yes, with a bit of love. It’s been tried and tested by Parisians who not only love their city, but love sharing it. Each day unfolds naturally, on foot or with just a few metro stops. You’ll discover many sides of Paris: the hilltop charm of Montmartre, the literary soul of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the classical elegance of museums and gardens, the creative energy of the Marais — and for the grand finale, the iconic Eiffel Tower. The pace shifts, the mood changes, the perspectives multiply. You’ll move between must-sees and hidden gems, beloved spots and delightful surprises. This is an itinerary made for strolling, for gazing, for breathing in the city — and for feeling Paris. No, it’s not a crash course in the capital. It’s something better: a curated journey. Personal, yet easy to make your own. Ready for the adventure? Paris is waiting — vibrant, layered, and ready to be (re)discovered. Day 1 – From Montmartre to the Rooftops of Paris: Where Bohemian Charm Meets Haussmannian Elegance Montmartre: a village perched above Paris The day begins in Montmartre, just outside Abbesses station, whose Art Nouveau entrance is one of the most iconic in the city. Right across the square, the “I Love You Wall” sets the tone — a poetic prelude with over 300 declarations of love in 250 languages, inscribed on deep blue tiles. The climb to the Sacré-Cœur is done on foot, at the rhythm of staircases, pauses, and panoramic glimpses of the city gradually unfolding. At the summit, the basilica stands tall — white, sculptural, and serene, perched above the rooftops. Inspired by Roman-Byzantine style, it contrasts with the surrounding Haussmannian silhouettes. Inside, one of the world’s largest mosaics depicts Christ in glory. Soft light, soaring domes, massive columns — the space invites quiet contemplation. Outside, the forecourt offers one of the most breathtaking views of Paris: a sea of zinc rooftops, steeples, and domes stretching all the way to the horizon. On Place du Tertre, artists set up their easels in the shade of plane trees. Some sketch portraits, others chat with passersby — the square feels like an open-air studio. A few steps away, Rue Norvins and Rue de l’Abreuvoir wind their way through cobblestones and ivy-covered façades. It’s a well-trodden path — perhaps too much so — yet the soul of Montmartre endures. Behind the storefronts, in quiet ateliers, locals work to preserve the spirit of the neighborhood: a perched village, both free-spirited and lived-in, bohemian yet alive. Rue des Martyrs and Montorgueil: the taste of Parisian life The descent begins along Rue des Martyrs, a lively street seemingly made for wandering. You pass old shopfronts, glossy-paned patisseries, and the warm scent of croissants wafting from neighborhood bakeries. A spontaneous break at a café counter offers the perfect pause — just watching the ebb and flow of locals and delivery bikes. Further down, Rue du Faubourg Montmartre picks up the tempo. The atmosphere becomes livelier: weathered cafés, independent bookstores, historic theatres. This is a vibrant slice of Paris — a little bustling, yet still charming. From there, Rue Montmartre leads to Rue Montorgueil, a fully pedestrian street. More bustling, more commercial, it’s ideal for lunch on a terrace, surrounded by colorful produce stands, wine merchants, and old-fashioned bistros. Chalkboard menus, clinking glasses behind the counter, voices weaving in and out — every detail forms a living city scene. It’s a place where both locals and visitors linger a little longer, for a meal, a dessert, or simply the pleasure of being there. Covered Passages: Paris in the Quiet Elegance of the 19th Century After the lively gourmet buzz of Montorgueil, you slip away from the bright, bustling streets into a more hushed interlude — beneath the glass-and-iron rooftops of 19th-century Paris. These hidden arcades reveal another side of the city: intimate, almost secretive, as if Paris were whispering in low tones. Once a stylish shelter from the rain, they now offer a gentle continuation of the stroll, bathed in soft filtered light. You enter through the Passage des Panoramas, paved and muted, lined with painted signs and tightly packed little restaurants. Passage Jouffroy carries on the same quiet charm, with vintage bookshops and quaint boutiques. Then comes Galerie Vivienne — the most luminous of all — where intricate mosaics and delicate ironwork compose a setting suspended in time. Palais Royal: A Secret Garden in the Heart of Paris Just a few steps from the arcades, the gates of the Palais Royal appear — a former royal residence built in the 17th century for Cardinal Richelieu, and a place that has crossed centuries without losing its discreet grandeur. You step into the inner courtyard, where Buren’s Columns, installed in 1986, form a black-and-white grid open to the sky — both playful and contemplative. Around the square, arcades with hushed shopfronts lead into the central garden. Rows of neatly trimmed trees, stone benches, quiet fountains — everything here invites you to pause, breathe, and take in another rhythm of the city before continuing your journey. Sainte-Anne District: A Taste of Asia in the Heart of Paris Just a few streets away, the atmosphere shifts. You enter the Sainte-Anne district, Paris’s Japanese and Korean heart. Born in the 1970s around a handful of discreet eateries, the neighborhood has since become a go-to destination for Asian cuisine in Paris. Its compact streets now host a rich variety of addresses: ramen shops, matcha dessert cafés, specialist bookstores, and gourmet groceries offering teas, condiments, and delicacies from Seoul to Tokyo. Come here for a steaming bowl of ramen, … Read more

Planning Your Trip to Bali: Essential Travel Tips

Bali: The Paradise You Need to Experience Bali, known as the Island of the Gods, is a dream destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and beachgoers alike. If you’re planning your trip, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your stay in Bali. When Is the Best Time to Visit Bali? Bali has a tropical climate with two main seasons: Dry Season (April to October): This is the best time to visit the island. Expect sunny days, calm seas, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and cultural exploration. Rainy Season (November to March): During this period, short but heavy downpours are common. However, if you don’t mind occasional rain and prefer a quieter atmosphere, this season can be a great time to visit. Plus, accommodation prices tend to be lower. Visa & Entry Requirements for Bali For travelers from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, no visa is required for a tourist stay of up to 30 days in Indonesia. If you plan to stay longer, you must obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for $35 USD, valid for 30 days and extendable once for another 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date, and you need a return or onward ticket as proof of departure. For stays exceeding 60 days, a visa must be obtained before departure from the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your home country. As visa regulations may change, always check the latest requirements on official Indonesian government websites or with your country’s Indonesian embassy before traveling. Getting Around in Bali Transportation in Bali can be a bit chaotic, but you have several options: Ride-hailing apps: Services like Gojek, Grab, and MyBluebird are widely used in Bali, offering affordable car and scooter rides. Scooter rental: The most popular way to explore Bali freely. However, it can be dangerous if you’re not used to riding a scooter. Make sure to have an international driving permit and ride cautiously. Car rental with a driver: For a more comfortable journey, you can rent a car with a driver. Many local drivers offer competitive rates for day trips or longer. Taxis: Available throughout Bali, though they tend to be more expensive. They are a good option for airport transfers but always negotiate the fare before your ride. What to See in Bali Articles by destination Want to explore Bali? Each region has its own rhythm, scenery, and atmosphere. To help you fine-tune your itinerary, we’ve dedicated a full article to each stop on our journey: Ubud: A Blend of Culture, Rice Terraces, and Balinese Traditions Munduk: A natural haven filled with waterfalls and plantations Sidemen: Far from the crowds, a deep dive into rural Bali Gili Trawangan: The perfect island for snorkeling and laid-back vibes Nusa Penida: Dramatic cliffs and unforgettable viewpoints Uluwatu: Surf, temples, and sunsets over the ocean Our 2-week itinerary in Bali Looking for an overview to help structure your trip? Check out our complete two-week itinerary, designed to balance exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion across Bali’s most beautiful destinations. No matter how you like to travel, Bali has a thousand faces to discover. Whether your stay is focused on nature, culture, or pure relaxation, you’ll find everything you need here to plan a journey that truly reflects you. How to Get Internet Access in Bali To stay connected during your trip, here are your best options: Local SIM card: The most practical and affordable choice. Providers like Telkomsel, Indosat, and XL offer packages suited to your stay duration. You can buy SIM cards at the airport or in local stores, where vendors will set them up for you. Public Wi-Fi: Many cafés, hotels, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, but the connection quality varies, and security isn’t always guaranteed, especially in rural areas. International roaming: You can activate a roaming option with your provider before departure, though this is often costly with limited coverage. Mobile hotspot: If you need to connect multiple devices, renting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot can be a convenient solution. Money in Bali The currency used in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, it’s advisable to carry cash for purchases at local markets and small shops. Here’s what you need to know about managing your money in Bali. How to Withdraw Money in Bali Withdrawal limits: The maximum amount you can withdraw per transaction depends on your bank and card type. Generally, you can withdraw between 1,500,000 IDR and 3,000,000 IDR per transaction (approximately €85 to €170 EUR | $90 to $180 USD). This amount may vary between ATMs. ATM fees: Some ATMs charge withdrawal fees, especially for foreign cards. These fees typically range from 5,000 to 50,000 IDR (about €0.28 to €2.80 EUR | $0.30 to $3 USD) per transaction. Things to Consider When Withdrawing Money Bank withdrawal limits: Some banks impose daily withdrawal limits for both local and international transactions. Check with your bank before traveling. Additional fees: Your bank may charge extra fees for international withdrawals, so verify these costs in advance. Multiple withdrawals: If you need more cash, you may have to make multiple withdrawals from different ATMs. Tips for Managing Money in Bali Watch out for extra charges: In tourist areas, service charges (usually 10-15%) are often added to restaurant and hotel bills. Check whether they’re included—they’re usually mentioned on menus or receipts. Use a fee-free travel card: Bring a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees to minimize extra charges when withdrawing cash or making payments in IDR. Inform your bank before traveling: Notify your bank of your trip to avoid card blocks and ask about their fees for overseas withdrawals. Budget in Bali Your daily budget in Bali depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. Here’s an estimated cost breakdown based on travel style: Luxury travel (€200+ per day | $220+ USD … Read more

Uluwatu: Famous Beaches and Majestic Cliffs

Uluwatu’s beaches, framed by dramatic cliffs, offer some of the most breathtaking views in Bali

Uluwatu: A Coastal Stop Between Cliffs and Ocean To end our stay in Bali, we chose Uluwatu—a practical choice thanks to its proximity to the airport, and well-known for its striking scenery. At the island’s far south, this region is defined by dramatic cliffs plunging into the Indian Ocean, hidden beaches favored by surfers, and a cliffside temple famous for its sunsets. While Uluwatu’s natural beauty is undeniable, it does attract large crowds, and the atmosphere is livelier than what we experienced elsewhere. Still, this stop revealed a different side of Bali—more vibrant—and gave us some of the most spectacular views of our journey. Getting to Uluwatu From Nusa Penida After our stay in Nusa Penida, we reached Uluwatu by combining boat and road. We took a speed boat to Sanur, one of the most convenient ports for reaching Bali. The crossing takes around 45 minutes. Once in Sanur, a 1.5-hour drive brought us to Uluwatu, passing through the areas of Denpasar and Jimbaran. We chose a private driver, which allowed us to travel comfortably without worrying about schedules. From Denpasar Airport (Ngurah Rai) Uluwatu is about 45 minutes by car from Bali’s international airport, depending on traffic. It’s one of the most practical options for starting or ending a stay in Bali. Transfers can be arranged through your accommodation, or you can organize a private car on arrival. From Seminyak, Kuta or Canggu From Bali’s main southern tourist areas like Seminyak, Kuta, or Canggu, it takes 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Uluwatu. Traffic can be heavy during peak times, especially late in the afternoon. Again, private drivers or ride-hailing apps like Grab are the simplest and most flexible ways to make the trip. Practical tips: Book your transfers in advance, especially during high season, to avoid delays If traveling with a private driver, take the opportunity to stop in Jimbaran or at a scenic viewpoint along the southern coast Roads leading to Uluwatu are generally good, but become narrow near the beaches and cliffs Uluwatu Temple: A Place of Spirituality and Striking Views Perched atop a dramatic cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s most awe-inspiring sites. Dedicated to the protective spirits of the sea, this Hindu temple offers a spectacular setting where spirituality and raw nature meet. From the entrance, the mystical atmosphere is palpable—stone carvings, ornate gates with traditional motifs, and playful monkeys weaving between visitors. As you follow the path along the cliff’s edge, the view becomes increasingly breathtaking. Waves crash against the rocks below, creating a striking contrast between the deep blue of the ocean and the greenery clinging to the steep walls. The experience becomes even more powerful at sunset. Golden light bathes the temple, enhancing the landscape, while the sky shifts into shades of orange and violet. This is also when the famous Kecak dance begins—an entrancing performance where dancers, accompanied by rhythmic chants, bring the legends of the Ramayana to life. Practical tips: Watch out for monkeys—they’re known to snatch glasses, hats, and other visible items The Kecak show is very popular—buy your tickets as soon as you arrive Respectful attire is required—sarongs are provided if needed Padang Padang: A Hidden Beach and an Unexpected Encounter At the end of the day, we headed to Padang Padang, one of Uluwatu’s most iconic beaches. Its unusual access makes it a unique place: after crossing a small bridge, a staircase carved into the rock led us through a narrow passage, wedged between cliffs, giving the impression of entering a secret cove. Along the way, monkeys watched visitors from the branches and railings. Used to human presence, they approached without hesitation, ready to snatch anything within reach. It’s best to keep your belongings safely tucked away—these clever creatures can open a bag in no time. As we stepped onto the golden sand, the turquoise water and the soft light of the late afternoon revealed the full beauty of the place. Far from the midday crowds, the atmosphere was calmer. A few surfers were still trying to catch the last waves, while other visitors enjoyed the sight of the sun slowly dipping below the horizon. It was then that we had an unexpected encounter. On the sand, a banded sea krait (Laticauda colubrina), with its black and white stripes, was making its way toward the ocean. Surprised, we watched as it slid between the rocks before vanishing into the waves. Venomous but rarely aggressive, it reminded us of the quiet richness of Bali’s marine wildlife. Bingin Beach: Surf and Relaxation by the Ocean Bingin Beach is one of Uluwatu’s most beautiful surf spots, known for its consistent waves and a calmer vibe than some of its neighboring beaches. Here, nature dominates—between cliffs and open sea—offering a beach that feels both lively and unspoiled. Access is via a steep staircase carved into the rock. The slightly challenging descent is quickly forgotten upon arrival: a golden sand beach framed by cliffs, where the water sparkles in the daylight and waves crash tirelessly. Surfing is the main activity. The powerful waves attract experienced surfers, but it’s also possible to book a lesson and try it out. From the shore, watching surfers ride the waves becomes captivating—especially in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the contrasts of sea and sky blend. Bingin is also a place to slow down. A few warungs, perched above the beach, offer terraces with stunning ocean views—perfect for enjoying grilled fish or a fresh juice while watching the waves roll across the horizon. At low tide, natural pools form among the rocks. The water calms, creating peaceful basins ideal for swimming or relaxing, away from the surf’s energy. A short walk along the beach lets you explore these tidal pools and the rocky landscape revealed by the sea. Whether you’re a surf enthusiast or simply looking for a quieter spot to enjoy the ocean, Bingin Beach offers a perfect escape. Its simple charm and raw setting make … Read more