If you’re planning a short trip to Paris, you’re in for a treat. With just three days, you can explore iconic landmarks, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and soak up that quintessential Parisian charm.
Let’s dive into this perfectly curated itinerary to make the most of your visit.
Paris Itinerary - Day 1
Morning: Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées
Kick off your Parisian adventure at the Arc de Triomphe, a stunning monument dedicated to French military victories. Pro tip: Instead of climbing the Eiffel Tower (we’ll get to why later), head to the top of the Arc for the best panoramic view of the city — including the Eiffel Tower itself! This is a great way to see a lot of the city at once and get your bearings.
Afterward, you have two options to reach your next destination. Take a stroll down the Champs-Élysées, which I only recommend when it is closed to traffic or, if your legs are tired from all the stairs in Arc de Triomphe hop on Line 1 of the metro.
My suggestion would be to get off the metro at the Concorde stop instead of taking it all the way to the Louvre stop (Palais Royal). This way you can take a walk through the beautiful Tuileries Gardens to the Louvre.
Stop for lunch now if you are hungry, best to fuel up before your next stop!
Afternoon: Louvre Museum and the Tuileries
Next up, the Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and countless other masterpieces. This iconic museum is a must-visit. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, focus on a few key exhibits or consider joining a guided tour. If focusing on a specific wing my recommendation would be the Denon which houses the Mona Lisa and other must-sees like the Winged Victory.
Evening: The Marais and Dinner at Chez Janou
Cap off your first day with dinner at Chez Janou, a charming Provençal-style bistro in the Marais. Their chocolate mousse is legendary, their tarte tatin is to die for, and their menu is classically French without being intimidating. The warm, lively atmosphere will make you feel like a local.
While you’re in the Marais why not take a nighttime stroll? This is one of the best arrondissements to simply walk in and see what you find. It’s also one of the best areas of town for a nightcap before wrapping up your first day in Paris.
You can choose to walk most of this day but this plan also provides you with an easy way to introduce yourself to the metro system if you want to make use of it during your stay (which I highly recommend). If you happen to have extra time, some things I recommend along this route include the Jardin du Palais Royal, which would be perfect after the Louvre, or the Places des Vosges in the Marais which would be a great spot to relax before dinner at Chez Janou.
Paris Itinerary - Day 2
Morning: Notre-Dame and The Latin Quarter
Start your day at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that has recently reopened to the public. After admiring the restoration, take a quick walk to two side-by-side attractions, the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle. These are both quick and enjoyable visits stepped in history.
This may seem like a lot to get through in one morning but these three attractions can be covered at a leisurely pace in about 3 hours altogether.
Finally, wander into the Latin Quarter, a lively area filled with hidden gems. Discover quaint bookstores like Shakespeare and Company or beautiful parks like the Luxembourg Garden. This is a great area to find some lunch!
Afternoon: Montmartre
Now head north to Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. Climb the steps to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for spectacular views. Then explore the cobblestone streets of this charming district. Start by heading to Place du Tetre and admiring the artist stalls and the to the I Love You Wall for some memorable pictures.
You’re now in the perfect area for dinner! Wander until your reservation time!
Evening: Pink Mamma
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at one of Paris’s famed Big Mamma restaurants, the Montmartre classic Pink Mamma. Expect vibrant decor, friendly service, and mouthwatering and seasonal dishes.
Make sure to make a reservation online before you go, you don’t want to be stuck waiting in line for 1-2 hours to get in! Social media made this place wildly popular and some say it's overrated. I disagree and think you will have a great time, just don’t forget about that reservation!
Paris Itinerary - Day 3
Morning: Eiffel Tower and a Seine River Cruise
Skip the long lines and costly tickets to go up the Eiffel Tower and admire it from the ground instead. The best views of Paris include the Eiffel Tower. The lovely Iron Lady is too busy, too expensive, and too high off the ground to provide good views of the city. You are better off saving the time and money to do other things.
While in the area hop on a relaxing Seine River Cruise. This is the perfect way to see all of the city’s landmarks. There's many options for cruise companies but Bateaux Mouche boards near the Eiffel Tower, within walking distance, is affordable and covers all the must seems landmarks on the Seine.
Afternoon and Evening: Free Time
Did you see something during your trip you wanted to do but didn't have the time? Now's the perfect chance! Take your afternoon to visit anything you feel like you missed and can’t leave without seeing. If you don’t have any plans, try something unique like visiting the Catacombs or trying a VR flight over Paris at FlyView. A memorable experience is the perfect way to end your trip!
Final Thoughts
Three days might not feel like enough in a city as full as Paris, but this itinerary ensures you hit the highlights while leaving room for unique discoveries!
If you have questions about your trip or feel like this itinerary doesn’t quite match your travel style, I’m here to help! You can book a consultation call, purchase a list of personalized curated recommendations, or go all in and have a fully custom itinerary designed just for you!
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