There's a particular kind of magic to arriving in Paris well-rested.
Not the bleary-eyed, economy-seat, knees-in-your-chest version of arrival. We're talking about the version where you step off the plane after sleeping in a lie-flat seat, breeze through a Priority Pass lounge for a café crème, and take the train into the city center feeling like a human being instead of a piece of carry-on luggage.
Here's the secret: that version of Paris doesn't have to cost what you think. In fact, with the right strategy, it can cost almost nothing.
Getting There: Flights to Paris on Points
Economy Class Options
| Route | Program | Points (Round Trip) | Cash Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC → Paris | United MileagePlus | 60,000 | $800–$1,200 |
| NYC → Paris | Flying Blue (Air France) | 50,000–72,000 | $800–$1,200 |
| Chicago → Paris | American AAdvantage | 60,000 | $900–$1,400 |
| Any US City | Capital One Miles | Varies | Varies |
The WanderWise move: Transfer Chase points to Air France–KLM Flying Blue during their monthly promo awards. Economy round trips occasionally drop to 40,000 points total.
Business Class Options
| Route | Program | Points (Round Trip) | Cash Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC → Paris | Virgin Atlantic (via Chase) | 100,000 | $5,000–$7,000 |
| NYC → Paris | Aeroplan (via Chase/Amex) | 120,000 | $5,000–$8,000 |
| East Coast → Paris | United MileagePlus | 120,000 | $5,000–$8,000 |
The WanderWise move: Transfer Chase points to Virgin Atlantic and book Air France business class. Air France's newest cabins feature fully enclosed suites, French cuisine at 35,000 feet, and champagne service that makes the whole flight feel like a celebration.
Where to Stay in Paris on Points
Paris hotels can be eye-wateringly expensive — $300–$800/night for anything decent during peak season. Points make a massive difference here.
Best Hotels on Points
| Hotel | Program | Points/Night | Cash Rate | Arrondissement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme | World of Hyatt | 30,000–40,000 | $800–$1,500 | 1st (Tuileries) |
| Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile | World of Hyatt | 15,000–20,000 | $250–$400 | 17th (Arc de Triomphe) |
| Hôtel du Louvre (Hyatt Unbound) | World of Hyatt | 20,000–28,000 | $350–$600 | 1st (Louvre) |
| Le Royal Monceau (Raffles) | Accor Live Limitless | 60,000–90,000 | $600–$1,200 | 8th (Champs-Élysées) |
| Renaissance Paris Vendôme | Marriott Bonvoy | 50,000–70,000 | $350–$550 | 1st |
The WanderWise move: The Hôtel du Louvre is our top pick for value. It's literally steps from the Louvre museum, beautifully appointed, and costs 20,000–28,000 Hyatt points per night versus $350–$600 in cash. Transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards to Hyatt 1:1 — four nights costs about 90,000 points for rooms worth $1,500–$2,400.
For a splurge: The Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme is one of the finest hotels in the city. Place Vendôme location, impeccable design, and Michelin-starred dining.
A 5-Day Paris Itinerary for the Unhurried Traveler
Day 1: Arrive and Settle In
- Arrive at CDG, take the RER B train to central Paris (~€11, 45 minutes)
- Check in, freshen up, take a walk
- Evening stroll along the Seine from Pont Neuf to Notre-Dame
- Dinner at a bistro in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Day 2: The Icons
- Morning at the Louvre (book timed entry, arrive at opening)
- Lunch at Café Marly overlooking the glass pyramid
- Afternoon walk through the Tuileries to Place de la Concorde
- Up the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe (climb the rooftop for views)
- Dinner in the Marais — our favorite neighborhood for evening atmosphere
Day 3: Left Bank & Montmartre
- Morning at Musée d'Orsay (the Impressionist collection is extraordinary)
- Walk through the Luxembourg Gardens
- Afternoon in Montmartre — Sacré-Cœur basilica, Place du Tertre artists, winding streets
- Dinner at a traditional brasserie
Day 4: Versailles Day Trip
- RER C to Versailles (~45 minutes, ~€7)
- Full morning and afternoon at the Palace and Gardens
- Marie Antoinette's Estate (the "hamlet" is a hidden gem)
- Return to Paris for a Seine dinner cruise (bookable with points via Chase portal)
Day 5: Your Paris
- Morning at a favorite neighborhood — return to the Marais, explore Le Marché des Enfants Rouges
- Afternoon at Musée de l'Orangerie (Monet's Water Lilies — plan to sit and absorb)
- Final evening: rooftop cocktails with Eiffel Tower views
The Points Budget (Two People)
| Category | Points | Cash Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Business class flights (Air France via Virgin Atlantic) | 200,000 | $12,000 |
| 4 nights Hôtel du Louvre (Hyatt) | 96,000 Hyatt | $2,000 |
| Points Total | 200,000 VA + 96,000 Hyatt | $14,000 saved |
| Cash Expenses | Cost |
|---|---|
| Flight taxes & fees | $400 |
| Versailles, museum entries | $120 |
| Meals (5 days for 2) | $600 |
| Metro/RER transit | $50 |
| Seine cruise, extras | $150 |
| Cash Total | ~$1,320 |
Practical Paris Tips for 55+ Travelers
- The Métro is excellent but involves stairs. Buses are more accessible and let you see the city.
- Café culture is real. Sitting at a sidewalk café with an espresso for an hour is not loitering — it's participating in French life.
- Tipping is included. Service charge is built into all restaurant bills in France. An extra euro or two for exceptional service is appreciated but never expected.
- Paris walks. Paris is best experienced on foot, but the cobblestones can be hard on joints. Comfortable shoes with good soles are essential.
- Book ahead. The Louvre, Orsay, Versailles, and Eiffel Tower all benefit from advance timed tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paris safe for older travelers?
Yes. Paris is a major global city with the usual urban awareness needed, but it's extremely safe — particularly in the central arrondissements where tourists stay. The biggest risk is pickpockets on the Métro — keep valuables in front pockets.
How many days do I need?
Minimum 4, ideally 5–7. Paris rewards time — rushing through it misses the point entirely.
Can I combine Paris with other destinations?
Absolutely. The Eurostar train reaches London in 2.5 hours. TGV trains reach the south of France (Nice, Provence) in 3–4 hours. Adding 2–3 days in another destination is easy and all bookable with points.
Bon voyage — and remember, you didn't work 30 years to see Paris from an economy seat.