1 day trip to paris

The Perfect One Day in Paris Itinerary (How to See Paris in a Day!)

Ah, Paris: the architecture, the food, the art, and the iconic sights are legendary for a reason, and even one day in Paris can be an absolute dream of a quick getaway.

One day in Paris may not be enough to work through a long wish list of what to see in the city (we’re still going strong on ours about 10 visits later), but don’t worry–you can indeed get a fantastic glimpse of Paris in one day.

Planning to spend a day in Paris and want to make sure you have the perfect itinerary?

Here’s how to see the best of the City of Light in a limited time!

I f you’re anything like us, when the sun sets on your day in Paris, you’ll say goodbye already dreaming of your next visit.

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Want to plan a day in Paris the easy way?

The perfect one day in paris itinerary, where to stay with one day in paris, tips for enjoying one day in paris, more than a day in paris, getting around during one day in paris, one day in paris itinerary map.

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The independent one day Paris itinerary we outlined below will show you many of our favorite places in the City of Light, from Notre Dame to the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower and beyond.

However, if you would rather not worry about navigating through Paris yourself, and your goal is to see absolutely as much as possible of Paris in one day, you can also consider signing up for this extremely well-reviewed tour .

Take Walks, who hosts this popular Paris in a day tour , is one of our favorite companies for small group tours in Europe, and we’ve used them in many cities (including on this Paris food tour ).

While there are trade-offs to booking a full-day tour of Paris–the thrill of meandering aimlessly through the streets of St. Germain and being beholden to no one’s schedule but your own as you munch on a crepe in front of the Eiffel Tower would be hard to give up–there are benefits to a tour, too.

The biggest one is that thanks to a knowledgeable and efficient tour guide, Take Walks’ tour covers an enormous amount of ground–be prepared for sore feet but a very satisfying day if you sign up.

Book your Paris in a day tour today!

Start at Notre Dame (though you can no longer go inside).

Located on Île de la Cité (one of the islands in the middle of the Seine, and the place where Paris was founded), there’s no better place to kick off your one day in Paris than at Notre Dame.

Iconic, beautiful, and centrally located, Notre Dame is an excellent starting point for any trip to Paris.

Sadly, after the awful fire at Notre Dame in April 2019 , the cathedral is closed to visitors.

We continue to recommend starting your one day in Paris here for a couple of reasons: Île de la Cité is still an incredibly central spot to start a day in Paris, and Notre Dame, though wounded, is still a beautiful structure.

As of December 2022, the area in front of and surrounding Notre Dame is closed to the public, and the damage from the fire is obvious from most angles (you can see lots of cranes if you look at the back of the building in particular).

Notre Dame is slated to reopen to visitors in 2024 , so fingers crossed we’ll all get to marvel at the interior of this Gothic beauty again soon!

For now, if you’d like to get the most “normal” view of Notre Dame possible at the moment as you start your one day in Paris, we recommend heading to the corner Rue de la Cite  and  Quai de Montebello , near the  Pont de Coeurs , where you can photograph the tops of the towers and some of the front of the cathedral looking semi-normal.

The front view of the Notre Dame, though not flawless, is worth a look too.

The views of Notre Dame from a Seine river cruise are also lovely, but more on that in a bit.

Stroll over to Shakespeare & Company.

5-minute walk from Notre Dame.

Just a short walk over the Seine from Notre Dame sits Shakespeare & Company, which is easily the most famous English-language bookstore in Paris.

Known as the haunt of Lost Generation writers like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, and later (in its current location), the gathering place of writers like Langston Hughes and Ray Bradbury, Shakespeare & Company has a storied history that includes many famous names, an eccentric owner or two, and even a closure during the Nazi occupation of France.

Today, Shakespeare & Company is stuffed with beautiful books and is worth visiting during even a one day trip to Paris.

Be sure to check out the view of Notre Dame through the second-floor window, say hello to the cat who lives upstairs, and purchase a book (they’ll stamp the title page with their seal at checkout, which makes for a wonderful Paris souvenir ).

Be sure to avoid taking photos inside–they are explicitly forbidden , so stick with admiring the books in real-time instead!

Grab a cup of coffee from a typical Parisian cafe.

Several gorgeous Parisian cafes are located within easy distance of Shakespeare & Company, and after an early start to your day in Paris, enjoying a traditional French breakfast is a great way to soak up the atmosphere of the city.

A few great options on or near Île de la Cité include Odette for something popular and photogenic, the cafe at Shakespeare & Company for surprisingly delicious and affordable options (their scones, while not typically French, are delightful).

For something iconic, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is an option for the late risers among us (though the cafe is extremely famous and photogenic, it also doesn’t open until noon).

For a less-famous but delightful option that we love, A. Lacroix Patisser offers wonderful drinks and pastries.

We’ve been eating there for years and love its cozy atmosphere and views of Notre Dame!

Check out the oldest clock in Paris.

8-minute walk from Shakespeare & Company or Odette.

On the side of the Conciergerie, mere steps from the Seine and affixed to the Tour de l’Horloge, sits the oldest clock in Paris.

Installed in the 14th century, the clock is both functional and absolutely stunning.

It also only takes a quick moment to stop to admire its beauty on the way to Sainte-Chapelle.

Make your way to Sainte-Chapelle.

3-minute walk from Tour de l’Horloge.

Since visiting the interior of Notre Dame is no longer an option, you now have time during your mad dash through Paris in a day to tour the interior of Sainte-Chapelle, which is–in my totally biased opinion–one of the prettiest church interiors in the entire world.

Built in the 13th century to hold precious Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns that now typically lives at Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle’s magnificent upper chapel is home to soaring 15-meter walls that are made up almost entirely of stained glass.

And, as beautiful as it is, the sheer amount of stained glass becomes even more impressive when you realize that over 70% of it is original!

The lines do get long here, so we recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

Like many attractions around Paris, they’re available with no upcharge at all!

Book tickets to visit Sainte-Chapelle today!

Head to the Luxembourg Gardens.

13-minute walk from Shakespeare & Company.

Home to the beautiful Luxembourg Palace, the Luxembourg Gardens are the perfect example of Paris’ iconic gardens.

Flowering and beautiful in the summer, it’s impossible to walk by during almost any kind of halfway-decent weather without seeing plenty of people gathered for a picnic, some gossip, or a quiet afternoon of reading.

Be sure to check the fountains for miniature sailboats in the summer: young Parisian children have a long tradition of playing with them there!

We have visited the Luxembourg Gardens in all seasons, and while each season has its pros and cons, summer is absolute magic.

Make your way to the Louvre through Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

18+ minute-walk from the Luxembourg Gardens to the Louvre.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is widely considered to be one of the most iconically Parisian neighborhoods, and for good reason.

With its lovely buildings, shuttered windows, and wrought-iron balconies, St. Germain feels like quite the Parisian postcard.

It’s also a wonderful place to eat, which means that a stroll through St. Germain as you vaguely make your way toward the Louvre serves 3 purposes: enjoying a beautiful Parisian neighborhood, resting your feet during lunch, and making your way to your next destination!

We enjoyed eating at Eggs & Co. in St. Germain, and, though it isn’t technically lunch, Laduree (makers of some of the best-known French macarons) has a beautiful store here as well.

Technically a few blocks outside of St. Germain but still delicious, we also love our lunches at Le Prince Racine.

The walk from the Luxembourg Gardens to the Louvre is technically under 20 minutes, but depending on how much you want to meander around the neighborhood, it could take quite a bit longer!

Dive into the Louvre.

Giant, overwhelming, and incredibly iconic, no attempt to see Paris in one day could leave out the Louvre .

There’s absolutely no way you could possibly see it all–we’ve been several times for many hours each and still feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface!

W ith only one day in Paris to work with, strategy and prioritization will both be important to making the most of your time in the Louvre.

We recommend spending 2 hours here, more or less, depending on what time it is when you arrive and how quickly you have moved during your day in Paris so far (keep an eye on the time of sunset–you don’t want to miss seeing the Eiffel Tower before dark!).

S tart by heading directly to the piece or collection that is most important to you–maybe that’s the iconic Mona Lisa, maybe it’s the Venus di Milo, maybe it’s the Egyptian artifacts. Who knows!

Alternatively, if you’d like some structure and a timeline to your visit, consider booking a guided tour ( we loved this one , and this popular tour is a more traditional option).

Regardless of whether you choose to take a guided tour of the Louvre or not, like with Notre Dame, we absolutely recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket for the Louvre before arriving .

T he lines can be insane, and even with a skip-the-line ticket, you’ll still have security to worry about!

Book your guided tour or skip-the-line tickets to visit the Louvre today!

Pay a visit to the Palais Garnier.

17-minute walk from the Louvre.

One day in Paris definitely isn’t enough time to visit Versailles–but you can get a small taste of Parisian glitz and glamour at the Palais Garnier (also called the Opera Garnier) all the same!

Paris’ iconic opera house is gilded and stunning–the incredible Grand Foyer might just make you think you’ve stepped into a smaller version of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.

While the interior of the theatre itself is a bit standard, the rest of the building, from the Grand Staircase to the Loggia, is truly remarkable.

And while there’s unlikely to be a phantom under the opera house, some of the legends connected to the famous story do hold true, including a deadly accident involving the famous chandelier in 1896 (though in the real story the counterweight, not the chandelier itself, fell to the ground).

Though the lines are not typically as long at the Palais Garnier as opposed to the Louvre and Notre Dame, we still recommend purchasing skip-the-line tickets ahead of time at no additional cost to ensure your one day in Paris runs as smoothly as possible .

(The Palais Garnier is also right around the corner from the famous Galeries Lafayette, which boasts a beautiful, free view of Paris from its rooftop–if you have a bit of extra time to work with by this point in your Paris itinerary, consider making taking a quick detour).

Purchase your skip-the-line tickets for the Palais Garnier today!

Head to the Trocadero Gardens and enjoy iconic Eiffel Tower views.

23 minutes from Palais Garnier via metro line 9.

No one day Paris is complete without enjoying an iconic view of the Eiffel Tower!

The Trocadero Gardens offer the best view of the Eiffel Tower in all of Paris–so grab a crepe from one of the nearby vendors (the prices are surprisingly reasonable to be right next to the Eiffel Tower) and get ready to soak in some beautiful views.

If you’d like to wander closer to the Eiffel Tower, feel free to make your way through the Trocadero Gardens, past both the carousels, across the Seine, and to the Eiffel Tower itself.

Sadly, increased security measures have recently been imposed that prohibit anyone from walking directly under the Eiffel Tower without a ticket to the top, but you can still get pretty close!

Wrap up your one day in Paris with a Seine river cruise.

To be perfectly honest, it took us many trips to Paris before we  signed up for a Seine river cruise … and after taking one, we can’t believe that we waited so long!

Yes, they’re a bit touristy, but there’s nothing quite like admiring Paris and its many gorgeous monuments from the water.

Add in the possibility of a sunset, and the view is even better.

Many Seine river cruises leave from very close to the base of the Eiffel Tower, too, making taking one an easy addition to this one day Paris itinerary!

Want to splurge a bit for your first night in Paris?

You can even  sign up for a full dinner cruise  if a standard one-hour cruise doesn’t sound like quite enough time on the Seine.

Book your Seine river cruise  today!

In a city as large and dense as Paris, deciding where to stay (especially when you only have 24 hours in Paris to work with) can be quite daunting!

Paris is famously divided into 20  arrondissements , or neighborhoods, that are named via a number system that starts with 1 in the center of the city (where you’ll find the Louvre) and circles outward like the shell of a snail.

After roughly 10 trips to Paris, we’ve stayed in many neighborhoods spread across the city, from Montmartre ( we loved this aparthotel ) to the Bastille area (an underappreciated place to stay, and  this hotel was wonderful ).

And, while everyone has their own opinions about where to stay in Paris (there’s no one right answer) we love and highly recommend Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th  arrondissement ) or the Latin Quarter (5th  arrondissement ) to travelers visiting Paris for the first time and frequently choose to stay there ourselves.

In these areas, you’ll be within walking distance of attractions like Île de la Cité (home of Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle), the Seine, the Luxembourg Garden, the Louvre, and many more.

Here are a few hotels we’ve personally stayed in and loved in the 5th and 6th, arranged more or less from most budget-friendly to most luxurious (though if it’s Parisian charm you’re after,  this one  is the clear winner).

Hotel Abbatial Saint Germain  (Centrally Located & Cozy)

We love this cute boutique hotel in Paris, mostly because of its truly unbeatable location less than a 10-minute walk from Notre Dame and therefore an easy walk away from much of the attractions of Île de la Cité (and a metro stop, of course).

Despite the super central location, the streets outside were still quiet at night, a huge benefit, and the views during the day were lovely.

The customer service was excellent, the bed cozy, and the room, while still very small by global standards, was a bit roomy compared to what we’ve gotten used to in Paris.

We’d be happy to stay again!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Abbatial Saint Germain!

Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris  (Classic Parisian Charm)

Located on a quiet street less than a block from the Seine and Île de la Cité,  Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris  offers all the advantages of a central location while maintaining its peace and quiet.

… and it does all that while still managing to have one of the most charming interiors we’ve experienced in a Paris hotel!

The ceilings, wallpaper, and overall decor never let you forget that you’re in the City of Light, and we loved every second.

The breakfast is also delicious, served at the table, and includes a generous selection of pastries as well as fruit, cheese, orange juice, coffee, and tea.

Check rates & book your stay at Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris!

Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris  (Modern Amenities + Kitchens on the Seine)

Located right on the Seine in one of the most convenient locations in Paris, the crisp and modern  Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris  offers ease at every turn.

And, that includes the fact that studios and apartments here include kitchens or kitchenettes!

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from sightseeing in Paris, a chance to enjoy an occasional dinner of cheese and baguette you picked up at the market, and a bit more elbow room than is traditional in the City of Light, this is the place for you.

We loved our stay here–and, thanks to the hotel being pet-friendly, so did Ranger.

Check rates & book your stay at Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris!

Don’t let simple mistakes cost you time during your one day in Paris!

T hese Paris travel tips will help you make the most of your limited hours in the city!

Get started early.

We are the absolute opposite of early risers, but with one day in Paris, we would be amiss to suggest anything but an early start.

The earlier you start, the more time you can spend enjoying Parisian cafes, shops, and views, and the most ambitious among us may even want to squeeze in one more attraction or museum along the way.

Here are the best things to do in Paris if you’re looking for even more ideas on what to see in the city!

For those who like to stay out late and want to expand their one day Paris itinerary a bit further, here’s what to do in Paris at night .

Strategize your metro use.

For most of this itinerary for seeing Paris in a day, the best way to enjoy the city is on foot.

You’ll experience the neighborhoods, the sights, the cafes, and so much more on a different level by spending as much time on your feet as you can!

Fo r that reason, we’ve only suggested one metro ride in this guide to spending one day in Paris.

However, if your feet are killing you (even one day in Paris could mean many hours of walking), the weather is terrible, or you’re short on time, you can definitely consider adding more metro rides into this itinerary.

Skip-the-line passes are your best friend.

Without planning in advance, one day in Paris during the popular summer months could easily mean spending your whole day in line!

Skip-the-line passes are absolutely the way to go in Paris–we use them ourselves whenever we visit–and often don’t cost even a penny extra!

Based on the itinerary sketched out here for one day in Paris, we recommend purchasing skip-the-lines passes for Sainte-Chapelle ,  the Louvre , and the Palais Garnier .

You’ll also want to book your Seine river cruise in advance to make sure you end up with the time slot you want.

Shop skip-the-line tickets for your day in Paris now!

Embrace the weather.

Paris is a cloudy, rainy city–there’s just no getting around it.

For that reason, we recommend planning your one day in Paris expecting the weather to include thick clouds with the occasional rain shower.

That leaves you room to be pleasantly surprised with a beautiful day, but lowers the risk of disappointment with a dreary one.

Regardless of what the weather is like when you arrive in Paris, try not to let it get you down–Paris is beautiful in the rain!

If you’re a museum buff who gets caught in the rain and wants to enjoy more art, the Musée de l’Orangerie is small, conveniently located for this itinerary, and one of our favorite museums in the city.

Dress with Paris in mind.

Deciding what to wear for one day in Paris requires taking a few things into consideration–even for those who aren’t particularly concerned about fashion.

Be sure to wear comfortable clothes (especially shoes!) that are easy to wear for an entire day.

Shoes are by far the most important–if your feet are incredibly pained by noon, your one day in Paris won’t be nearly as fun as it could be.

We’d also recommend wearing something classically fashionable (think dark colors, flattering cuts, and simple lines)–this is Paris, after all, and you’ll want to look good in your photos!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than one day in Paris, you have so much to look forward to!

With a little extra time–say an afternoon or a morning–consider adding on a visit to the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysses, or a visit to the Musée d’Orsay .

To enjoy a different side of Paris, consider heading out to the gorgeous and wildly popular neighborhood of Montmartre , which is home to some of the most charming streets in the city (not to mention phenomenal views from the Sacré-Coeur).

If you have a few days in Paris, be sure to check out our detailed 3 day Paris itinerary to help you find the best sights.

We’ve intentionally structured this one day in Paris guide to include a lot of walking.

W alking directly between every attraction before heading to the Trocadero Gardens (we definitely recommend a metro there) will require about an hour of walking total, but that doesn’t include time spent on your feet in places like the Luxembourg Gardens and the Louvre.

Be prepared for sore feet after your day in Paris!

If you’d like to use the metro several times throughout the day instead of walking, consider purchasing a “carnet” of metro tickets–by buying 10 tickets at once, you save a little money.

Alternatively, if you’d like to avoid as much walking as possible, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour can help.

Coming from Charles de Gaulle Airport

To get into the center of Paris from the Charles de Gaulle airport, take the RER B line into the city.

I f you’re arriving in the morning ready to start your one day in Paris, you won’t even need to make any changes!

The Saint Michel – Notre Dame metro stop is on the same line, so you can jump on the train at the airport and get off right at Notre Dame.

Travel time is about 40 minutes, though I’d recommend allowing an hour for any delays.

Coming from Orly Airport

Coming from the Orly airport, you’ll follow almost the same directions as arriving from Charles de Gaulle.

T he only difference is that you’ll need to hop onto a train called the “Orlyval” first, which will take you over to pick up the RER B line.

The signs are very clear, so don’t worry–getting into the center of Paris is the goal of just about everyone arriving at the airport, so the directions are designed to be easy to follow.

Travel time is about 40 minutes, just like Charles de Gaulle, and I’d recommend allowing an hour for any delays here, as well.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

36 thoughts on “The Perfect One Day in Paris Itinerary (How to See Paris in a Day!)”

I’m gonna be in Paris next week! Definitely doing this for one of the days I’m there

Jeremy y Kate Agradezco muchísimo vuestros consejos, es exactamente lo que necesitaba. Pienso que me serán de mucha ayuda. Mil gracias! Tania

Muchas gracias, Tania! Espero que tengas un viaje increíble a París!

I am planning to travel Europe for a month but was so concerned about time and making sure I was able to see the most of each place. This was so incredibly helpful! Thank you!

That’s so great to hear, Anna! Hope you have a fantastic time in both Paris and Europe as a whole!

Thanks for the great guide. Will be using it for my trip next month.

So glad to hear it helped! Hope you have a wonderful day in Paris. 🙂

Thank you!! Perfect itinerary. Got everything mapped and ready to go!!!

Have an amazing time, Debbie! 🙂

I will definitely be using this guide for this weekend – so helpful!! Thank you! We’re going for a weekend but I’m dying to see Versailles on sunday so I’m going to squeeze everything else on Saturday!

So glad we could help, Annie! Enjoy Paris–and Versailles! 😀

hey Kate, writing this after a long time after all the pandemic, but your post was so helpful for us to see Paris in 2 days before covid, we almost tried to go to each and every places as you suggested in the particular order and ended up having the best time in Paris, Thank you so much for your post and helping us out…….

So happy to hear this, thank you so much! Glad we could help! 🙂

Is it a problem having luggage on the metro from the airport to the hotel?

Definitely not! You’ll be in good company. 🙂

I’m a big time traveler and am planning a trip for my sister (I don’t have much time to organize it). Your report was wonderful!! So much better than I could have done. Thanks for making it seem good for everyone.

So glad we could help, Susan! Hope you and your sister have an amazing time in Paris. 🙂

I’m planning a trip for next year, hope we can enjoy most of the places listed. I love all your detail and links for references, save us a lot of time. This is a very useful blog, thanks!!

So happy you found it helpful, Anna! Hope you have a wonderful time in Paris. 🙂

Going to Paris in late July! This is very helpful. Will fly in and out on the same day, with approx 8-9 hours to see the city. Any recommended itinerary or changes based on this info or since the article was written?

It all depends on how fast you sightsee!

If you’re not a big museum person, you could skip the Louvre since you have such limited time and just take a stroll past the exterior.

Paris in a day! is looking possible and achievable now with your wonderful itinerary. It is so helpful for old couple like us. We intend to arrive at 9 am and return to London by 9 pm Euro rail. Can we purchase Hop on & Hop off bus tickets at the station or online? Does the bus stops at all the places you mentioned? We definitely want to visit all the attractions you mentioned in your blog. Do we have time for a river cruise? You saved us lots of planning and thank you.

So glad our itinerary helps! 🙂

You can purchase Hop on/Hop off tickets either online or in person (though I’m not sure exactly what stops you can buy them at in person). We tend to book everything online these days. There are a few different companies running similar tours, but with slightly different schedules/stops/prices, so it’s definitely worth comparing. They’re listed with Get Your Guide, the same company we linked for skip-the-line tickets in this post.

As for a Seine River Cruise, you may have to trim a stop or two to make it work, but there are 1-hour cruises and if you want to do one, there’s no reason you can’t fit it into your schedule!

Thank you for this info i am wanting to do as much as possible in 1 day in Paris. Most things we just want to see and photograph but Eiffel is a to the top place. Moulin Rouge is a stop, would love a show, but not sure about late night. the area up the hill Montmartre looks fascinating to us. see Notre Dame and Shakespeare bookstore. a river cruise would be lovely and to see Arc de Triomphe.. we are staying at DLP.and commuting to city so a long day walking is fine for the next day we come back to exit Paris from CDG to USA.

Hi Marlene,

I think you can easily fit in most of what you want, but definitely be open to cutting a few things based on time!

Mouline Rouge and Montmartre are the furthest away from the center, but if they’re a priority you can make it happen.

The Arc de Triomphe is a bit out of the way from everything else on your list, so I’d ask yourself how badly you want to see it. The view from the top is one of our favorites, but so is the view from the top of Sacre-Coeur in Montmartre.

Without the Arc de Triomphe, you have 3 distinct geographic areas on your list: Il de la Cite and nearby with Notre Dame/Shakespeare and Company, Eiffel Tower + river cruise (many leave from near the tower), and Montmartre + Moulin Rouge.

You’ll absolutely want to use the metro to get between those areas, especially going out to Montmartre and back!

Thank you for this itinerary. We are going to follow it exactly since we are just coming over from London for a day. Do you think we will manage all of these locations okay considering we are traveling alone and don’t speak any French?

Yes, definitely–you don’t need to speak any French to enjoy your day in Paris!

That being said, if you have time to at least learn basic greetings, it will be much appreciated (and may help you feel more at ease).

Thank you. You’re being so helpful I’d like to ask one more… working out our timeline to make the train back to London, I think we will have to choose between going inside the Louvre and doing the River cruise. What would you recommend? Thank you again!!

Personally, I’d definitely do the Louvre!

The river cruise is lovely and worth it if you have time, but the Louvre is one of the best museums in the world. No contest in my opinion. 🙂

Is your itinerary printable?

Sadly we don’t have a printable version yet, though we hope to make some in the future!

It seems that purchasing timed tickets directly from places like Versailles, Louvre, and Eiffel Tower are just as effective and less expensive than skip the line tours. Would you agree?

I think you’re conflating a couple of different things.

In Paris, timed entrance or skip-the-line tickets (separate from tours) can be booked in many places for the same price. Whether you purchase an entrance ticket (not tour) to those attractions through the website or through an authorized reseller like Get Your Guide, the price is the same. We like to use Get Your Guide for ease and also due to their generous cancellation policy, but if you prefer to go direct you of course can. It’s the same price either way.

Skip-the-line tours (not tickets) include a guide, and of course cost more than tickets do. Often, guided tours are able to skip more lines or ensure additional access than independent travelers have, though that varies based on the tour you book. Security lines generally can’t be skipped anywhere, for obvious reasons, though guided tours sometimes have access to dedicated ones for groups that are much shorter. Getting the lowest possible price isn’t the point in the case of a tour!

Thanks for the great suggestions! We just had a fun day visiting several of the places mentioned here. One note: at Sainte-Chapelle the security lines were still pretty long (20-30 mins) even with pre-purchased tickets. No lines with or without tickets at the Opera building though. Thanks!

So glad you guys had a great time!

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Paris in Just One Day: A Quick Exploration Guide!

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If you’ve got just one day in Paris and you’re wondering how to make the most of it, you’re in the right place. Having lived in this magical city since 2006, I’ve got the insider scoop on how to experience the best of Paris in a day.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re back for more, this itinerary is packed with must-see spots and local secrets. From the charming streets of Montmartre to the iconic Eiffel Tower , we’ll cover it all.

How to make the most out of your one day in Paris?

If you’ve ever searched for “perfect day in Paris” or “one day in Paris”, you’ve probably seen a bunch of guides and itineraries. I’ve looked through them too, and to be honest, they often leave me scratching my head.

Some are jam-packed to the brim, while others suggest you’ll barely have time to do anything. Let’s find a happy medium and plan a day in Paris that’s just right!

But let’s set the record straight: if you’re in Paris for just a day, you won’t tick off every highlight. But don’t think for a second that a one-day visit isn’t worth it. You can absolutely have a fantastic time and get a real taste of what Paris has to offer. Let’s make that day count!

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

A word of warning: This 1 day in Paris itinerary that I created for you is sportive, and you better pack your most comfortable walking shoes for Paris because you’ll be on your feet all day.

Also interesting:

• 2 days in Paris : read more here
• Paris first timer guide: read more here

In this guide I am aiming for that the sweet spot between sightseeing and joie de vivre. Because let’s be honest: you can visit the Louvre, but if you have only one or two spare hours, what’s the point?

And you can also just rush from one sight to another next on your Paris in one day tour. But if you don’t have a moment to just sit and enjoy a glass of wine on e terrace?

Visiting Paris is not a race . Paris is about pleasure and joy, about taking it all in, about being fully there.

Your Realistic iItinerary for One Day in Paris

I have been living in Paris for many years, and I put together a realistic itinerary of things to do in Paris in a day.

Everything you could and should do if you are in Paris for a day to make the most out of your stay and get a comprehensive impression of the city .

For a café on a patio and even a glass of wine at sunset. You will also see some of Paris’ most iconic sights , and I can assure you it won’t be the most stressful day of your life. And you most likely want to come back!)

What does this 1 day in Paris Itinerary cover? 

In a nutshell, these are the sights and activities you can be looking forward to if you are following more or less this one-day itinerary for Paris:

• Eiffel Tower
• Pyramid of the Louvre
• Seine River Cruise
• Sacré Coeur
• Shakespeare & Company
• Centre Pompidou
• The Bouquiniste
• a café in a Parisian street café
• of course: An authentic french croissant
• and: a glass of wine

If you are thinking now that I am out of my mind to be intending to squeeze all those activities to do in Paris in one day, that’s fair.

Though, I am good at coming up with efficient plans. Read on to see for yourself how you can maximize your day in Paris .

Paris in a Day Walking Distance: 9.5km ≡ Duration: 8h to 10h

Feel free to use the itinerary below as is, or think of it as a set of building blocks.

Depending on your schedule, energy, and personal preferences, you can easily skip parts like the Louvre Pyramid or Montmartre.

You might even want to start with Montmartre and skip the Marais. These modules are flexible and can be swapped around to suit your mood. This way, you can create a memorable day in Paris that’s tailored just for you.

Your 1 day in Paris Itinerary

Maybe you’re thinking of a quick stopover in Paris for a day while heading to Southern Europe. Or perhaps you’re in luck with a long layover in Paris, giving you enough time to venture into the city. And depending on where you’re based, a day trip to Paris could even be on the cards!

Either way, visiting Paris for one day is a fantastic way to get to know the city a bit.

If you need precise information regarding your arrival point, for example how to get into town from airports , where to park your car , etc., please read also the last section of this article

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Here’s your itinerary for one perfect day in Paris.

#1 Châtelet & Marais

Length: 4km | Duration: 1h30

Paris works really well when you’re short on time. It’s not a massive city, quite the opposite, actually, and most of its sights are centered around the same area.

That’s why I’ve picked Châtelet, a major metro and train station, as the starting point for this itinerary. Châtelet is a key public transport hub, making it easy to connect from wherever you’re arriving in Paris.

It’s directly linked to Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, and to major train stations like Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est, Gare Saint Lazare, and Gare de Lyon. So, getting here should be a breeze.

Tour de Saint-Jaques

After enjoying the obligatory French Croissant and are at the Metro station, head east. If you are unsure where east is, look out for the Tour de Saint-Jaques . The 52m high tower is the only remains of a gothic 16th-century church that got destroyed following the French Revolution in 1797.

Hôtel de Ville

Heading down the Rue de Rivoli, you will soon see the Hôtel de Ville , the Parisian mayor house, on your right. I suggest paying a visit to the tourist office that is located on the left side of the building.

It’s a good occasion to stuck up on some Paris knick-knack as a memory of your one-day trip to Paris, but the real reason why it’s worth to step in are the free temporary exhibitions!

24 hours in Paris – Visit the Marais! 

Starting from Hôtel de Ville, make your way north, passing the Centre Pompidou , and enter the Marais. This area was the aristocratic district of Paris until the French Revolution, and many historic buildings here are remnants of that era.

Post-revolution, the Marais transformed into a bustling commercial area and became the heart of Paris’ Jewish community . Nowadays, it’s also known as the center of LGBT culture in Paris and a hub for galleries, boutiques, trendy restaurants, and bars.

So if it comes down to what to see in Paris in one day, the Marais is definitely high up on the list. If you have a bit more time in Paris, the Marais is a wonderful district to take a walking tour for foodies!

Your Exact Itinerary: Châtelet & Marais

If you follow the itinerary below, you will come across the most interesting and representative sights within the Marais area.

The actual walking time in the Marais, according to Google, is about 53 minutes. But you should really allocate at least 1h30, if not 2 hours. The Marais is filled with charming shops and small galleries, and I did promise you’d have time for a café, right? Taking it slow here is part of the experience.

To save time, I suggest you have (an early) lunch in the Marais.

The Marais, with its strong Jewish and Middle Eastern influences, is a great spot for kosher food and, of course, falafel!

A top choice is L’As du Falafel on Rue des Rosiers . This famous falafel shop is even a favorite of Lenny Kravitz. That’s quite the endorsement (and honestly, the falafel really is delicious). You’ll spot it easily thanks to the queue, but don’t worry, they serve fast.

Alternatively, I can recommend Le Sabich Sandwich from Babka Zana near Place de Vosges on 8 rue du Pas de la Mule .

For more food ideas, check out our Paris Food Guide to discover the best eats in the city!

#2 Île de Saint-Louis

Length 300m | Duration 15min (if you make an ice cream stop!)

After you’ve visited the Shoah Memorial in the Marais, cross over the Pont Marie to reach Île Saint-Louis. While the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral might tempt you to detour, hold off for a bit — it’s not on our agenda just yet. Stay patient, there’s more to explore first!

Just when you set foot on the Île Saint-Louis, you’ll pass by Berthillon . It’s the most famous (and best) glacier in Paris, and their ice creams and sorbets are knowingly among the 10 best ice creams in the world . And isn’t time for a desert anyway? Treat yourself!

By the way, does the café in the picture above look familiar? It’s a filming location for Emily in Paris!

If you’ve got a little extra time and you’re still up for a walk, I recommend adding about 15 minutes to your schedule for some detours around Île Saint-Louis. It’s a really pleasant island and worth the extra exploration.

#3 Quartier Latin

Complete Loop 4 km |  Duration 1h30—2h

Shortcut Tour 1.2 km  |  Duration 20 – 40 min

The Quartier Latin, known as the traditional university district of Paris , still houses most of the city’s educational establishments. The area gets its name from its history — Latin used to be the language of academia!

Today, the Latin Quarter is a vibrant student hub , bustling with pubs, bars, markets, shops, and picturesque cobbled streets. It’s a lively part of the city that’s full of energy and character.

Given that you’ve already done a fair amount of walking today, it might be wise to keep your Latin Quarter tour relatively brief. The full loop on the map below is more suited for those who are particularly keen on exploring Paris or for those opting to rent a Vélib bike for quicker travel.

If you’re leaning towards the shorter route, head directly to Odette, marked as point G on the map. This will streamline your tour while still allowing you to experience a key part of the Latin Quarter.

Latin Quarter Shortcut Tour (If you lack time)

The shortcut itinerary through the Latin Quarter includes some iconic Parisian spots, starting with Odette .

This charming tea house is famous for its choux à la crème – a type of filled puff pastry. It’s a great place to either sit down for some people-watching with a tasty pastry or to grab some choux to go.

Just a short walk from Odette, you’ll find the renowned bookstore Shakespeare and Company . Specializing in English and American literature, this bookstore is a true Parisian institution and one of the city’s most unique spots.

If you’re short on time, Shakespeare and Company is a must-visit in Paris, even for just a day. It’s no longer a hidden gem , but it’s absolutely worth stepping inside to explore.

When you visit Shakespeare and Company, make sure to take in the view of Notre Dame from the first floor. And while you’re there, give some love to the resident cat who lives in the bookstore (not in Notre Dame!).

For a unique souvenir, any book you buy can be stamped upon request – a nice little touch to remember your visit.

If you haven’t grabbed a bite yet, the Latin Quarter offers plenty of lunch options. But a heads-up: try to avoid the restaurants around Rue de la Harpe.

They might be cheap and look tempting, but trust me, you can find much better food elsewhere in the area for just a bit more.

#4 Île de la Cité

Length 1,8 km | Duration 40 min (if you visit the Hôtel Dieu)

From the the Latin Quarter, just cross the St. Michel Bridge and finally head over to Notre Dame . Since the tragic incident in 2019, Notre Dame cannot be visited currently.

Some blinds are put in place, so you cannot get even close to Notre Dame. However, you can still snap some pictures and the Île-de-la-Cité has a few nice places to discover, for example, the Hôtel Dieu just left from Notre Dame.

It’s not a very time-consuming activity, but a real secret tip and definitely worth it! See our post here and know more about visiting .

Editor’s advice : if you are around Notre Dame, be extra wary of pickpockets and do not stop if some girls ask for your signature for something.

#5 Seine River Cruise – Time to Relax

Book your Ticket here | Duration 1h30 

After wandering through the Marais, much of the Latin Quarter and the Seine islands, you’ve definitely earned a break!

On the Seine Island Île de la Cité, where you currently are, you find the pier for the Seine River Cruise . It’s the perfect chance to just hop on and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river!

Taking a cruise on the Seine will not only let you relax and stretch your legs a wee bit after quite a busy day, but you will also see most of Paris’ important sights (at a very fair price!)

• Tour Eiffel
• Musée d’Orsay
• Musée de Louvre
• Île de la Cité
• Grand Palais
• Petit Palais
• Pont Alexandre III

There are many companies in Paris that are offering Cruises on the Seine and one is usually as good as the other, but most of them are leaving at the Eiffel Tower. So not at all where you are.

If you are visiting Paris only for a very short time and following my itinerary, you need to book a Seine Cruise with Vedettes de Pont Neuf . It’s the only company that starts in the center of Paris.

I strongly recommend booking  your Seine cruise in advance , as some time slots are very popular and superfast sold out. Check here for availabilities, schedules, and rates .

Tip : The boats are leaving from the Seine island Île de la Cité and the entrance is next to the statue of Henry IV, in the middle of Pont Neuf.

#6 The Pyramid of the Louvre

Length 1,1 km | Duration 14 min 

The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum and is located in the former king’s palace, the Palais du Louvre. It’s also the largest art museum of the world, with more than 30.000 exhibited objects on 72.735 square meters.

But bad news first : you won’t have time to visit the Louvre if you are on a one day trip to Paris.

That being said, if you skip one or two of the suggested itineraries, you could make it. Just think about purchasing your tickets in advance, as even a museum like the Louvre can be sold out. Click here to reserve your spot!

Need help deciding? Read this article: Is the Louvre Worth It? Your No-Nonsense Guide

The great news is, you’ve got time to see the famous Pyramid of the Louvre . This glass pyramid, situated in the main courtyard of the Louvre, was inaugurated in 1988.

Initially, it wasn’t widely embraced, but today, it stands as one of Paris’ key landmarks. Interestingly, it’s not just one pyramid – there’s also an inverted glass pyramid inside, a fact you might recognize if you’ve seen the film or read Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code” .

It’s a striking piece of architecture that blends modern and historical elements, making it a must-see on your Paris trip.

(Well, there are 4 Pyramids, but those 2 are the most significant)

#7 Montmartre & the Sacre Cœur

Length 700m | Duration 25min – if you linger

Montmartre is one of Paris’ loveliest areas, and if you’ve still got a bit of energy left, consider taking an Uber up north. (The Metro is also an option, about a 30-minute ride.)

When you arrive at Abbesses Metro station, take some time to grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. I personally recommend Comptoir Breizh .

It’s a traditional Crêperie serving both sweet and savory dishes, and their offerings are truly delicious. It’s a great way to wrap up your day with some authentic French cuisine.

Right next to the Abbesses Metro station, you’ll find your first Montmartre highlight: “ Le mur des je t’aime” or the Wall of Love. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo. Then, get ready to head uphill.

Yes, there are a few stairs involved, but soon you’ll arrive at “Place du Tertre” , the famous square bustling with painters ready to sketch your portrait.

And just a bit further, you reach the grand finale of your one-day Paris adventure: the majestic Basilica of Sacre Coeur . What better way to end an amazing day than by watching the city lights come on at night from this stunning vantage point?

P.S.: Don’t forget to grab some beers or wine to enjoy as you take in the breathtaking view.

Editor’s advice: A s you descend the stairs at Sacre Coeur, keep an eye out for individuals who might approach you to tie a friendship bracelet around your wrist, often expecting money in return.

The best strategy is to simply ignore them and walk past quickly. They’re not dangerous, just quite persistent and can be annoying. Being aware and moving on swiftly is your best bet.

How to organize your day trip to Paris?

No matter how long or short you stay in Paris, there are always a few things to organize.

The most common question for travelers is understandably about how to get to Paris in the first place.

If you’re arriving by car, finding a convenient and reasonably priced parking spot is crucial. On the other hand, if you’re flying in, it’s important to know the best ways to get from the airport into the city.

The following articles will be interesting for you:

• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris: THE complete guide!
• How to use the Parisian Metro in 2022!
• Paris by bike: How to rent a bike in Paris in 2022!

1 Day in Paris: Transportation & Accomodation

Each mode of arrival requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth start to your Paris adventure.

Arriving in Paris by Plane

The paris layover tour.

If you are traveling internationally in or out of Europe with a connection in Paris, you might have some waiting time between flights. You can also plan an easy overnight layover to benefit from the occasion to explore Paris.

Paris isn’t very far from the airport, and it’s easily possible to use a layover by visiting Paris.

How to get to Paris from the Airport?

Paris has 2 airports: Roissy/Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in the north and Orly (ORY) in the south. Both airports are connected to Paris by RER B (Parisian express train) with several inner-city stops.

By Public Transport

The train from the airport , whether it’s Orly or Charles de Gaulle, takes around 45 minutes to Châtelet, the center of Paris.

By Private Transport

If you are short on time and don’t want to stress about figuring out public transportation, you can also easily book a private transfer from the airport to Paris.

I recommend you to check with Welcome Pickup because they are reliable, speak English and track your flight to be aware of delays.

Check here our very extensive guide on how to get from CDG airport to Paris!

Where to stay when traveling by Plane?

If your layover requires reserving a hotel, you can either check in to a hotel close by the airport or spend the night in Paris.

However, it depends on your flight departure time. If your plane is scheduled before noon, I suggest staying close to the airport. Traffic in Paris can be VERY busy, both on roads and public transportation.

Where to stay near Charles de Gaulle Airport (Roissy)?

A few Hotels are located directly on the Airport premise, so you don’t have to worry about transportation in the morning. The best Hotels are:

• Ibis Paris CDG (Budget)
• Innside by Melia Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Midrange)
• Pullman Paris Roissy Cdg Airport (Upscale)

Where to stay near Orly Airport?

If you are leaving from Orly in the south, you have less of a choice because there are only two hotels in the airport area. Both are good and convenient:

• ibis Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport (Midrange)
• Novotel Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport (Upscale)

Arriving in Paris by Car

If you’re heading north or south or are on a road trip through Europe, you might find yourself arriving in Paris by car . However, having a car in Paris isn’t really ideal.

I strongly recommend against driving into the city center and also suggest avoiding street parking. The traffic in Paris can be intense, and finding a parking spot is often a challenge.

Moreover, leaving all your luggage in your car while you’re out exploring Paris is not a good idea.

It’s better to find a secure parking solution or consider alternative transportation options once you’re in the city to ensure your belongings stay safe and you avoid the stress of navigating Parisian traffic.

There are many paid and surveilled parking places all around town that are close to public transportation. You can find your convenient location and even book a parking place ahead of your arrival.

You can do that for example here , but there are many parking place providers in Paris.

Rent a Hotel with Parking Place

If you’re planning to stay overnight in Paris and have a car, booking a hotel with private parking can solve your parking dilemma. I recommend checking out these hotel options.

All of them are conveniently located near Metro stations, ensuring quick access to the city center. Plus, they’re situated just far enough from the heart of the city to avoid getting caught in Paris’ notorious traffic.

This way, you get the best of both worlds – ease of travel and a stress-free place to park your vehicle.

However, parking is not free and all hotels charge a minimum of €20 per day.

Mama Shelter East: ultra-modern hotel with iMacs in each room. The hotels also have an in-house restaurant, a Pizzeria, and a bar.

Le Mireille: The nice French hotel lies nearby to the Sacre Coeur. The location is perfect for everyone who is following our one-day in Paris itinerary, as the Sacre Coeur is the end of the tour!

Arriving in Paris by Train

If you’re traveling to Paris from London, Brussels, or Cologne, you’ll most likely arrive at Gare du Nord. On the other hand, if you’re coming from the south of France, your arrival point will probably be Gare de Lyon.

Conveniently, each of these train stations is connected to Châtelet by a direct Metro line , and the journey takes about 10 minutes.

A single ride Metro ticket costs €1,90 at the time of writing and can be loaded on a Navigo Easy Travel card that you either buy at the station for €2 or load on your phone for free.

Where to stay in Paris for one night?

If you are looking for a hotel in Paris for one night, it’s best to stay in the center of Paris. This way, you are saving time in public transportation, you get the full Paris flair, and you are quickly everywhere.

But it is hard to choose the right Hotel in Paris, I know. That’s why I have a few Paris hotel guides that will help you find your perfect accommodation.

• 5 most convenient Ibis Hotels in Paris  – Budget Hotel Guide
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• The best Hotels in Montmartre; for every budget!

If you’re planning to follow this itinerary and need to catch a flight from Charles de Gaulle Airport later, it’s actually a smart idea to look for a hotel in Montmartre .

This location offers you a convenient route back after a day of sightseeing, and it also means a shorter trip to the airport, as both Montmartre and Roissy Airport are in the northern part of the city.

Plus, Montmartre is an incredibly beautiful area, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee before you head to the airport. Staying there not only simplifies your logistics but also adds a charming start to your departure day.

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FAQ: One Day in Paris

One day in Paris may not be enough to explore the city to its core, but it is enough time to get a good glimpse of the city and to take in that exceptional Paris vibe.

Absolutely. Paris is surprisingly small, especially if you compare it to London, Berlin, or New York. Everything is close together, and crossing Paris on foot from North to South takes not even 3 hours. If you stroll around Paris for one day, you see a lot and surely can check off a few of your bucket list items.

Paris is a safe city to visit, especially if you roam around the center. However, avoid having your valuables at places, that are easily accessible because pickpockets are everywhere.

Paris is easily visited from London for a day. The Eurostar takes not even 2.5 hours from London to Paris, and the station is very close to attractions and sights.

The cheapest way to travel around Paris is the Metro, 1,90€ one way.

If you find this post useful, share it! 🙂

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BEST of Paris in One Day: Most Complete Itinerary (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 18, 2024

Are you planning to visit Paris for a day and wondering what you can see and do in such a short time? In this guide, we share a suggested 1-day Paris itinerary that will bring you to all the must-see spots and help you make the most out of your time. Find out!

Paris, France, is a fascinating city that has a lot more to offer than you could ever see in a week, let alone in a day. So figuring out an itinerary that allows you to see the best of Paris in one day can be overwhelming. But – with some advance planning and preparation – it’s definitely possible.

Below, you can find our recommended itinerary that allows you to see many of the ‘musts’ in Paris in one day. We also share a map as well as useful information and our experience-based tips to help you plan your first visit to this fascinating city.

Keep in mind that there is not one ‘best’ itinerary to follow for a day trip to Paris. So this is just one of many possibilities. The aim of this itinerary is to show you what’s possible and how you could plan your time if this is your first time in the city and you want to experience the very best of Paris in one day. Take a look!

Top Experiences to Book for Paris in a Day:

• Sainte Chapelle .
• River Seine Cruise .
• The Louvre .
• Eiffel Tower .

Some planning tips and info to make the most out of your day in Paris:

Further below, you will find a detailed itinerary indicating what to see, plus approximate hours based on the time that you need in order to get to and visit the places. Please note that these are only meant for your reference, to give you a better idea of how it all could fit together and how to help you plan your time and pre-book time slots for all the sights.

Important to know: If you are exploring Paris on your own, you will need to book timed-entry tickets for all the attractions that you want to visit!!!

For this itinerary, you will need tickets to Sainte-Chapelle , either the Louvre OR d’Orsay Museum , the Eiffel Tower , the Seine cruise , and also Arc de Triomphe . If you decide to see the show at the famous Moulin Rouge , you will need to reserve that well in advance too!

TIP: If you find it all too overwhelming to plan a good Paris 1-day itinerary on your own, take a look at this highly-rated day tour . It takes you to many of the best spots in Paris in a day and you don’t have to worry about tickets or timing and how to make it all fit together. It’s a great option if you are short on time and want to make the most of it without having to stress about anything.

This tour has a somewhat similar itinerary as the one described below and ends at the Eiffel Tower. So you could easily visit the places that we recommend seeing in the evening after doing this tour as well.

And now, let’s take a look at what your day in Paris could look like – see below!

1-Day Paris Itinerary – Overview

Here is an overview of our recommended Paris itinerary for one day. Further below, you’ll find all the details about each place we recommend visiting.

As you can see, this is a very full itinerary that starts very early in the morning and ends late at night. We did our best to create a very complete itinerary that shows you as much as possible in a day.

If you feel like this is way too much for you, you can easily adjust this itinerary to suit your interests. For example, skip the places/activities that are marked as optional. Not interested in spending 2 hours inside a museum? Just see the architecture of the Louvre from the outside. Not interested in the sightseeing river cruise? Head straight to the Eiffel Tower, etc.

But this gives you a good idea of what can be done in Paris in a day, which places are worth it the most on the first visit, and how to plan your time.

Here is our recommended Paris 1-day itinerary in a nutshell:

• 7-8.30 am: Montmartre & Sacre-Coeur Basilica (optional).
• 9-11 am: Île de la Cité ( Sainte-Chapelle , Notre Dame, early lunch).
• 12-2.30 pm: The Louvre or Musée d’Orsay .
• 2.30-3.30 pm:Jardins de Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III (optional).
• Walk, taxi, or metro.
• 4 – 5.30 pm: Eiffel Tower *.
• 6-7 pm: Seine Cruise .
• 8-9 pm: Arc de Triomphe .
• Evening: Champs-Élysées and dinner.
• Metro or taxi to Moulin Rouge or back to your hotel.
• 11 pm: Moulin Rouge (optional).

* Good to know: If you opt to visit the Eiffel Tower summit (instead of just Levels 1 and 2), you’ll need at least 1 hour more, so skip something else and adjust the rest of your itinerary as needed.

Map & Getting Around

To give you a better idea of where everything is located and how to plan your time, we created a map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. See below!

If you want to make the most of your day in Paris, it’s best to cover all the biggest distances by metro. For smaller distances, you can walk or take a taxi/Uber.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

This is our recommended Paris itinerary for one day:

Montmartre & Sacre-Coeur Basilica (Optional)

7 – 8.30 am

If you want to make the utmost out of your day in Paris, start with a visit to Montmartre . This is one of the most charming neighborhoods in the city and you could easily spend a day here alone. But even if you just come for an hour, you can see the best parts!

Start by taking the metro from your hotel to Abbesses station. Check out the Wall of Love ( Le Mur des Je t’aime ), and then take the stairs or funicular to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica . The church is usually open from 6.30 am so you can even visit inside (it’s free).

Enjoy the stunning city views from the stairs in front of the church, then turn right, and walk to Place du Tertre . This charming square is the heart of the Montmartre.

During the day, it’s very lively, full of local artists and tourists. In the morning, you will likely find it very quiet, so the atmosphere won’t be the same, but it’s worth visiting either way. You will also find many cafes and restaurants here. Many of them are open from early morning, so this could be a nice place for a coffee or breakfast.

Depending on how much time you have, you could explore a bit more of the neighborhood. For more tips on what to see, take a look at our detailed guide to this neighborhood via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Montmartre

Next, take a metro to the Cité station in the center or a taxi/Uber straight to your next destination – Sainte-Chapelle.

Good to know: We indicate this as optional because we realize that not everybody will be able/want to start their day this early. Plus, Montmartre is quite out of the way from all the main attractions in the city center. But if you want to get the maximum out of your day in Paris and see different facets of the city, then definitely consider a short visit here.

Île de la Cité: Sainte Chapelle, Notre Dame

9 – 11 am

Île de la Cité is the heart of Paris. This little island on the Seine River is best known as home to the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, but there is so much more to see here!

With just a day in Paris, you will have to be selective, however. So we recommend just focusing on the two main landmarks – Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle.

TIP: Book the earliest possible time slot for Sainte Chapelle and head there first ( reserve timed-entry tickets here asap – it’s extremely popular!). This Gothic masterpiece with 1113 stained glass windows will take your breath away! It’s the most impressive church to see in Paris, and I promise you, it will be one of the highlights of your day!

Then walk to Notre Dame to admire its impressive exterior. Keep in mind that the church is still closed for restoration after the devastating fire, so you cannot visit it inside. The opening is now foreseen for December 2024.

Early Lunch

Now it could be a good time to find something for lunch. There are many cafés on Île de la Cité, or you could just grab a crêpe (French pancake) on the go.

You could stop by the restaurant called Aux Vieux Paris d’Arcole (it’s quite famous for its Instagrammable exterior). But it looks more charming in the photos than in reality, and quite frankly, there are better price/quality places nearby.

Recently, we had a very good low-key lunch at the nearby café Sur le Pouce. But both of these cafes are a bit out of the way for this itinerary.

Anyway, you will find many other good places in this area too. There are a few nice crêperies on the way to the Louvre which would probably fit this itinerary the best. We indicated all these places on our map further below.

Louvre Museum OR Musée d’Orsay

12 – 2.30 pm.

Next, you could visit one of the most famous museums in Paris – either the Louvre or d’Orsay Museum .

The Louvre is somewhat closer by, about 15 minutes walk, and the d’Orsay Museum is on the opposite side of the river, about 30 minutes walk from Notre Dame.

If you go to the Louvre, you could also see the Hôtel de Ville (the City Hall of Paris) and Pont Neuf on your way there. This iconic bridge can also be seen on the way to the d’Orsay Museum. 

No matter which museum you choose, a walk to get there along the shores of the Seine is really nice. You will pass the famous green Parisian Bouquinistes kiosks selling old books, posters, and postcards. Often, you will also see street vendors selling roasted chestnuts (one of the traditional French foods you should try in Paris !)

Musee d’Orsay is located inside an old train station and the interior is stunning. It also has an incredible art collection. The must-see here is the Impressionist section with some of the best works by Monet, Renoir, Manet, and many others. You can also see some masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh.

At the Louvre , you can see the famous Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Venus de Milo, and countless other famous masterpieces. In addition, you will see the famous Louvre pyramids. 

Considering all this and its location, for this itinerary, I think I would recommend choosing the Louvre, especially if this is your first time in Paris. On the other hand, d’Orsay Museum is usually a bit less crowded. But both are among the most popular Paris attractions, so it will be very busy either way.

Important! If you want to visit any of the museums, count to spend about 2 hours inside (or you won’t have much time left for the other places). Also, you absolutely have to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance! Here you can book tickets for the Louvre and here – for d’Orsay Museum .

If you decide to visit the Louvre, below, you can find a link to our detailed guide with useful tips (such as which entrance to take in order to avoid the biggest crowds).

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum

Jardins de Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III (Optional)

2.30 – 3.30 pm.

Located just next to the Louvre is the famous Tuileries Garden ( Jardins de Tuileries ), one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. You can also easily get here from d’Orsay Museum – just cross the bridge to the other side of the river.

If you are coming here from the Louvre, you will also pass Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel . This triumphal arch was built earlier, before the famous Arc de Triomphe de Etoile which you can see in the distance from here (and can visit in the evening – see further).

Next, you will pass Place de la Concorde , one of the biggest squares in Paris. In the center, you can see an ancient Egyptian Obelisk, and there is a really nice fountain here too.

Walking towards the river, you will arrive at Pont Alexandre III , the most decorative bridge in Paris.

Good to know: I indicate these places as optional since visiting them all adds quite a bit of walking to this itinerary (about 1.8 km (1.1 miles) – at least 20 minutes of walking time). You could also skip these places to save time, or just walk through the garden and then take a metro from Concorde station.

Next, make your way to the Eiffel Tower. A walk from the Alexandre III bridge is another 1.6 km (1 mile). The distances may not look big, but it all adds up throughout the day, also in terms of time… So you may want to take a taxi or a metro.

Eiffel Tower

4 – 5.30 pm.

No trip to Paris would be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower ! You can just walk around admiring its impressive structure, but you’ll probably also want to go up and see the views from the top.

In that case, you really have to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance!!! And you have to choose which levels you’ll visit in advance when booking your ticket.

Good to know: Eiffel Tower has three levels that you can visit: Level 1, Level 2, and the Summit. Level 2 tickets include levels 1 and 2, and the Summit tickets include all levels. In addition, for the first part – up to level 2, you can choose between taking the elevator or the stairs. The summit can only be reached by a separate elevator from the second level.

While going all the way to the summit is a very unique experience, the city views are probably somewhat better from the second level. From the top, you can see much further, of course; it’s just a different perspective really.

Also, it takes much more time to visit the top since the queues for the elevator can be really long. Realistically, you need about 1.5 hours for levels 1 and 2, and 2.5 hours if you visit the summit.

So with just a day in Paris and limited time, visiting level 2 is probably a better option. But if standing at the summit of the Eiffel Tower is high on your bucket list, then definitely go for it! In that case, you’ll probably need to skip something else from this itinerary.

Good to know: You can book Eiffel Tower tickets on their website and also on sites like GetYourGuide or Tiqets . Depending on how long in advance you book, often, Summit tickets on the official site might not be available anymore, but you can still find them on these other sites, sometimes in combination with e.g. a Seine Cruise or other popular attractions. Tickets for the second level are easier to get, but also there, if you want to be able to choose the best time slot, try to book asap!

TIP: Alternatively, you could also opt for this Eiffel Summit + Seine Cruise ticket combo . Keep in mind that you’ll need to foresee extra time if you go to the summit.

Seine River Cruise

6 – 7 pm.

Next, take a scenic cruise on the Seine River . It’s a great way to see more of Paris and at the same time rest your legs a bit after all the walking and sightseeing. A river cruise is something that should be on any Paris bucket list, so don’t miss it!

There are many cruise options departing from various locations. For this itinerary, exactly as described here, you could take this sightseeing cruise . It starts near the Eiffel Tower and has regular departures throughout the day. The ticket is valid for any boat on the selected day (more info via the booking link above). Or, as said earlier, simply get this popular Eiffel Tower + Seine Cruise combination ticket .

TIP: If you feel like this itinerary is already full enough as it is and would like to call it a day after this, opt for a Seine Cruise with dinner !

If you are determined to make the most out of your day in Paris, next, make your way to Arc de Triomphe. You can walk there from the Eiffel Tower, take a metro, or get a taxi/Uber. If you walk, you can enjoy nice views of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero Gardens on the other side of the river. If you are visiting in winter when it gets dark early, you might be lucky to catch a sunset and/or see how the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the dark. 

Good to know:  Eiffel Tower lits up a few minutes after sunset. In addition, the tower ‘sparkles’ for 5 minutes on the hour every hour, between dusk and 11 pm.

Arc de Triomphe

8 – 9 pm.

The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris and needs no introduction. You probably have seen it in countless movies, usually in a scene involving cars trying to navigate the 12-fork roundabout around the Arch.

Also here, you have two options. You can simply admire the Arch from the outside or you can go all the way to the rooftop to enjoy some amazing views of Paris. Inside, you will also find a small museum. And on the outside, you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The 360° views from the top of the Arch are amazing. It’s one of the most impressive viewpoints in Paris ! Just below, you can see the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The view of the Eiffel Tower is great too and in the distance, you can see the modern La Défense district, Montmartre and Sacre Coeur Basilica, and many other landmarks of Paris.

Good to know: Arc de Triomphe is extremely popular at sunset. The views can be magical indeed, but it’s also crazy busy… Depending on the season when you visit, it’s possible that you will be here around sunset, but with just a day in Paris, I wouldn’t time your visit just for that. You’ll have difficulties squeezing in all the top sights in a day already, so just come here when it suits your itinerary the best.

The views are really nice in the dark as well, and the Arch stays open until late (usually around 10.30 pm).

TIP: If you want to go up, we also highly recommend booking your tickets in advance . At the moment, they are not timed (so are valid at any time during the day of your choice), but purchasing them online saves you a long queue at the ticket desk. You’ll still have to queue at the security check, but that can’t be avoided anywhere.

Champs-Élysées & Dinner

9 – 10.30 pm.

End your day in Paris at the city’s most famous boulevard – Avenue des Champs-Élysées .

This street is a few miles long, but the nicest and the liveliest part is right at the Triumph Arch. Here you will find many famous fashion designer stores and this area also has tons of restaurants.

If you are visiting on a weekend or want to dine at a specific place at a specific time, be sure to reserve in advance. Otherwise, it should be possible to find something on the go. 

TIP: Restaurants on Champs-Élysées are very expensive and price/quality-wise not always the best. But in the side streets, you can often find much better value for your money. Despite the touristy location, we had a really good dinner at La Flamme, just 5 minutes walk from the Triumph Arch. I indicated it on our map below.

Alternatively, if you are heading to Moulin-Rouge, you can find some very good restaurants in that area (more local and much cheaper too).

Moulin Rouge (optional)

If you want to experience the very best of Paris in a day and think that you’ll still have some energy left, we highly recommend seeing a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge.

It’s a very professional show with fantastic artists, dazzling acts, colorful costumes, and great music. Furthermore, a traditional Parisian cabaret is something that you can only experience in Paris! It’s an experience you won’t quickly forget!

Good to know: You’ll need to take a taxi/Uber to get here. There are two shows here every evening – at around 9 pm and at 11 pm. The Moulin Rouge show tickets usually sell out at least a few weeks in advance, so you really have to book them asap ( see here for the availability and to book ).

They also have a dinner + show combo , but dinner starts at 7 pm already and these tickets usually sell out at least a month in advance.

TIP: If Moulin Rouge tickets are sold out, check if there is availability at other cabarets in Paris . While the Moulin Rouge is the most iconic and best known, many others – like Paradis Latin or Crazy Horse are just as good.

Where to Stay

Even if you only have just one day in Paris that probably means that you’ll spend at least 1 or 2 nights in the city. 

Since you will be sightseeing all day, the location of your accommodation doesn’t matter that much. Ideally, it’s close to a metro station so that you can easily get to wherever you start/end your sightseeing itinerary.

For this itinerary (if you visit everything), you could stay close to Montmartre/Moulin Rouge. That way, you are close to your hotel in the morning and in the evening too. And if you decide to go to Moulin Rouge in the evening, you could even quickly change clothes before the show.

Here are some highly-rated hotels in this part of Paris:

• €€€€€ Manolita Paris .
• €€€ Hôtel des Arts Montmartre (great value).
• €€ Hotel Darcet .

So, this is our recommended itinerary that brings you to all the must-see places in Paris in a day.

I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect, what to see, and how it could all fit together.

As you can see, it’s packed, so you may want to adjust it a bit to suit your interests, time, and budget.

Once again, you really have to book timed entry slots for all the main attractions . It’s not just a matter of wasting time at the ticket desk anymore. Without advance reservations, you can’t even expect to visit most places at all, especially in the high season.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Know Before You Go: Paris Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

More travel inspiration for Paris:

• Traditional French Food
• Best Museums in Paris
• Best Views in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum
• Best Things to Do in Montmartre
• Paris Itinerary for 4 Days
• Paris in October

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More 1-day itineraries for some of the nicest European cities:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• 1 Day in Barcelona (Spain)
• 1 Day in Edinburgh (UK)
• 1 Day in Florence (Italy)
• 1 Day in Glasgow (UK)
• 1 Day in Lisbon (Portugal)
• 1 Day in London (UK)
• 1 Day in Madrid (Spain)
• 1 Day in Milan (Italy)
• 1 Day in Manchester (UK)
• 1 Day in Naples (Italy)
• 1 Day in Rome (Italy)
• 1 Day in Salzburg (Austria)
• 1 Day in Seville (Spain)
• 1 Day in Toledo (Spain)
• 1 Day in Venice (Italy)
• Read also our top tips for traveling to Europe (includes itinerary suggestions and so much more).

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Aimee Morland

Sunday 4th of February 2024

We will have 2 full days in Paris. I love your one day tour. My husband is interested in visiting Versailles but I know it is a whole hour away. Do you think it make sense to do your one day itinerary in Paris and then the other day to go to Versailles? Or should we skip Versailles and spread your one day itinerary into two days?

Thank you!!

Monday 5th of February 2024

@Jurga, Thank you! That is helpful. We will do Versailles on the second day. I just booked a combined Eiffel Tower and Siene River cruise from a link from your page. It says "get your guide" and "Full Suitcase" at the top. I want to make sure this is a legit website as it was more money and it doesnt give you a ticket but just a meeting place to pick up your ticket. My second question is in regards to the river cruise. I would like to book the time but I don't see how to do that. It just says use anytime after the Eiffel Tower visit. But will all the cruises be booked for the rest of the day? We only will be there for one day. Thank you for your help!

Hi Aimee, the Palace of Versailles is well worth a visit, but you can easily visit the Palace and see some of the gardens in about half a day. So you could 'spread' this itinerary over 1.5 days and then visit Versailles in the afternoon of day 2. You can also take a look at the first two days of our suggested 4-day Paris itinerary and see if it looks more doable for you. It's more relaxed on day 1 and includes Versailles on the second day. There are literally countless ways to plan any trip to Paris, so pick the places that interest you the most, see what makes sense location and timing-wise, and you can easily adjust this to plan your own dream trip. Hope this helps.

Thursday 10th of August 2023

i am going to Paris with my 3 kids. I think the most important tip is to plan the entry tickets well in advance. If you want to go to the TOP of the eiffel tower without spending an arm and a leg on fees for tourist agencies or without queuing the day itself, you should buy tickets EXACTLY 2 months before your visit and EXACTLY at midnight 12 pm. Five minutes later, the top-tickets will be sold out.

Friday 11th of August 2023

Yes, it is very important to plan ahead nowadays, Koen. I didn't know Eiffel Tower has gotten this crazy this summer. It was not nearly as difficult last fall, so it's likely just in the peak season and hopefully, it gets better again as the summer is over. But yes, if you travel in any major city in Europe and don't think to prebook all your tickets in advance, you won't be able to visit (m)any of the top sights... Btw, we have this and many other useful tips for visiting Paris in this article.

Tuesday 8th of August 2023

We just returned from Paris and followed this itinerary to the t. It was such a great day. Well thought out and we saw so much. We would have never been able to do all this without you! PS We bought the Paris City Card as you suggested and it was very easy. Moulin Rouge was sold out so we went to Crazy Horse 😊. Thanks, Tim & Tina

Wednesday 9th of August 2023

Thanks for sharing your experience, Tim. Glad to hear that you had such a wonderful time in Paris!

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

What a brilliant itinerary. Thank You! We followed it to the t and had the best time in Paris. Sadly, Moulin Rouge was sold out but we booked a dinner cruise which was amazing.

Saturday 1st of July 2023

Glad to hear that, Frances, and appreciate your feedback. Happy travels!

Michael Cicchi

Monday 17th of April 2023

I will make sure to try Sur La pouce and La Flamme restaurants. Musée d'Orsey is on my must do for next Paris visit.👍

@Jurga, Hello again, I was thinking that I could help you make some sponsorship $$ if I followed some of your suggestions.🙂

Oh, Michael, there are SO MANY restaurants in Paris! These are just a few that we chose on this particular trip. :) And yes, d'Orsay Museum is absolutely worth a visit next time you are in Paris!

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Paris in a Day: A 1 Day Paris Itinerary

Last updated: December 1, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 32 Comments

We love Paris, it’s one of our favourite cities in Europe and one we have visited many times. Ideally, we’d love for you to visit it for as long as possible! Still, we know that’s not always possible, and you might only have a short amount of time to see the city.

The good news is that whilst having a few days to explore Paris is wonderful, it’s also possible to see many of the highlights of Paris in a day. And in this post, that’s just what we’re going to help you do.

We’ve put together this post to help you get the most out of your 1 day in Paris. It’s going to take you to the highlights of the city – everything you’re going to want to see, even on a 24-hour timetable.

As well as a step-by-step itinerary, we’re also going to share some tips for getting around efficiently, saving money in Paris, tips on where to stay if you’re here overnight, and the fastest way to get to and from the major Paris airports, if you’re arriving by plane. Let’s get started.

Paris in a Day: Itinerary

This is a full all day Paris itinerary that will have you seeing some of our favourite sights in Paris – which also happen to be the highlights of Paris that most visitors want to see. It’s definitely set up to be a full day, with the sights towards the end opening late so you can keep sightseeing even into the evening.

It’s just a suggestion though, so don’t feel obliged to see everything on this list – it’s important to tailor any itinerary you read to your specific interests, available time, budget, and travel style.

• Sainte Chapelle

It took me multiple visits to Paris before I finally made it to Sainte Chapelle . Now I urge everyone to make it a priority on their trip to Paris!

This is a relatively small chapel that is not too far from Notre Dame, but the interior, which consists of almost floor to ceiling stained glass, is absolutely outstanding. It will definitely take your breath away.

The 13th century Saint Chapelle is quite popular, and the small size and mandatory security checks mean that the line to get in can be long. This is why I have put it on my list as the first thing for your second day in Paris – you want to get here early, ideally get in line ten – fifteen minutes before the opening time. After all, no-one wants to spend their time standing in lines.

There’s a fee to enter Saint Chapelle, and you can buy tickets online here .

Sainte Chapelle is close to Notre Dame , one of the world’s most recognisable cathedrals. However, following a devastating fire seriously damaged Notre Dame in 2019, and the cathedral is closed to visitors as a result. We definitely still recommend walking by to get a glimpse of Notre Dame, however you can’t currently go inside.

Other nearby attractions on Île de la Cité include the Conciergerie (you can get a combined ticket for that and Sainte Chapelle here ), and the Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation (Deportation Memorial) .

If you’re arriving into Paris on the same day as this itinerary, getting from the airport to Sainte Chapelle isn’t too hard.

From Charles de Gaulle, RER line B stops at St. Michel / Notre Dame, and a single ticket at time of writing costs under €10. From Paris Orly, you can take the Orlyval light rail train to the Antony RER station, from where you can also take the RER line B to the Sainte Chapelle area.

Another option is to take the bus, with bus companies operating routes from both airports into Paris city center. You can also book a shuttle bus transfer or a private transfer from the airports of course.

From Sainte Chapelle to the Louvre Museum , our next stop for our day in Paris, it’s either an 18 minute walk, or around 13 minutes if you take Metro line 7. We’d recommend walking as the views along the river are very pretty, and it doesn’t take much longer.

The Louvre was originally built as a fortress, and the first buildings date from around the 12th century. However, as the city developed, it evolved in function, and in the 16th century it became the main palace of the French Kings when they lived in Paris. Following the French Revolution, it was turned into a museum, and has served as an art museum since 1793.

Today, it is the world’s largest art museum, and is home to over 380,000 objects, with 35,000 on display at any one time. Highlights include the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, but as you would imagine, there’s a great deal to see here. In fact, you could probably spend a full day (or more!) just exploring the Louvre.

Of course, with just a day in Paris, this won’t let you see anything else if you really want to explore the Louvre. But if you want to see a lot of highlights in Paris, we suggest you limit yourself to about two hours. Entry is ticketed and timed, and as one of Paris’s most popular attractions, the lines here can be long. This is definitely an attraction you’ll want a skip the line ticket for.

You can buy them from GetYourGuide here , or on the official site here . It’s also included on the Paris City Card .

Alternatively, you can take advantage of a Paris Museum Pass , which includes skip the line access to the Louvre as well as a number of other attractions, however see the note below about reserving your entry time.

Note that in the busy times, which tend to be the summer periods especially, the Louvre gets very busy, and it’s recommended that you purchase a ticket online in advance to avoid disappointement.

If have a Paris Museum Pass , you must reserve your entry online on the official website . This is mandatory for pass holders in order to guarantee entry, and we highly recommend you do this in advance. If you do not reserve your slot in advance, you are not guaranteed entry even with the pass.

Another pass option to consider is the Paris City Card . This includes entry to the Louvre, and you can book the timeslot when you buy the card.

For more on the various pass options in Paris, check out the section further on in the post on saving money during your time in Paris to make sure you get the right option for you.

If you do not have a pass, you can reserve your ticket online on GetYourGuide here , on Tiqets here or on the official website here .

We have found that third party websites may have availability even if the official site does not as their allocation comes from a separate pool. Just note that sometimes there will be a booking fee added to these services which makes the price a touch higher.

We would recommend only using reputable websites – we can recommend either GetYourGuide , or Tiqets , both of which we have used in the past.

• Eiffel Tower

You can’t really avoid seeing the Eiffel Tower when you visit Paris, and a visit to this huge wrought iron tower is a definite must for your day in Paris!

Almost every time we visit Paris we visit the Eiffel Tower, and we are always awed by just how big it is. When it was opened in 1889 it became the tallest man-made structure in the world, with a total height of 324 metres to the very tip. As a visitor, you can go nearly to the top – the very top observation platform is 276 metres above the ground, making it the highest publicly accessible observation deck in Europe.

Of course, you don’t have to go to the very top to enjoy the Eiffel Tower, or in fact, to climb it at all. You can enjoy excellent views of the tower from the Champ de Mars gardens, as well as from the Trocadero on the other side of the River Seine. If pressed for time or not really into the tower, we’d recommend coming here instead for a nice view.

That said, if this is your first visit to Paris, we do recommend that you go up inside the tower. There are three floors that you can visit, and the first two levels even have restaurants. If it’s near a meal time, this is certainly a unique place to get a meal whilst you’re in Paris!

The more casual eateries don’t require reservations but if you want eat at 58 Tour Eiffel or Jules Verne you’ll want to make a reservation before your trip. You can reserve directly with the restaurants here .

The Eiffel Tower is definitely one of the most popular attractions in Paris, and if you want to go up it, it’s very much worth planning a little in advance. The on-site ticket lines get very long, so you definitely want to book in advance.

Tickets for going up the Eiffel tower are available from the official website , and prices vary depending on which level you want to access, and if you want to take the lift or stairs to the first floor.

We very much recommend that you buy your tickets in advance to save time. The best prices are definitely available by booking direct on the official website.

If you’d prefer to take a tour, we recommend this one with 2nd floor access or this one with summit access. These both include free cancellation last time we checked, which official tickets do not.

If you have a Paris Pass , a guided climb to the second floor is included. These tend to run in the middle of the day, so check times on the official site to ensure they meet your schedule. The Paris City Card also includes guided access to the second floor, with optional summit access.

Note that even with pre-booked tickets, you will still need to go through security screening, as with all the other major Paris attractions.

Getting to the Eiffel Tower from the Louvre will involve either a lovely 40-minute walk along the Seine, a 30-minute metro ride, or a 25-minute bus ride. For more tips on visiting, see our complete guide to the Eiffel Tower .

• Seine River Cruise

If all this walking around seems a bit much, then we suggest you take a Seine River Cruise . These are a really popular way to sight-see in Paris, and a number of Seine River cruises depart from right next to the Eiffel Tower.

There are a wide variety of Seine Cruise options available, from shorter cruises of around an hour to ninety minutes, as well as longer cruises that feature a meal.

Additionally, cruises differ in terms of commentary, from pre-recorded to live commentary, as well as the languages on offer. In terms of sight-seeing, cruises usually start at the Eiffel Tower and head along the Seine River towards Notre Dame.

We have a full post comparing Seine River sightseeing options , which we definitely recommend reading to understand all your options. If you’d prefer a dinner cruise, we also have a comprehensive guide to Seine River dinner cruises .

Our recommendation for an Eiffel Tower departure is a cruise with Bateaux Mouches (small discount with our link ) or Bateaux Parisiens . The latter is also included for holders of the Paris Pass and the Paris City Card .

You can also see a selection of cruise options, some of which include dinner, here or here .

• Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a massive monument in the shape of an arch, which commemorates and honors those who fought and died for France in both the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. It was commissioned by the Emperor Napoleon in 1806, but due to its massive scale, it was not completed until 1836.

Today, the Arc de Triomphe stands alongside the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre as a must-visit location in Paris. You can admire it from the outside for free, but my suggestion would be to pay the entry fee and to go to the top.

From here, you get stunning views across the city. Twelve roads radiate out from the arch, including the Champs-Élysées, and from the top you can see the majority of the highlights of Paris.

Note that the Arc de Triomphe is in the middle of a huge traffic roundabout, and many visitors make the mistake of trying to walk across this. Don’t do this! There are pedestrian access tunnels which are far safer and what you should be taking.

You can purchase tickets on site for access, although you may have to queue. You can also purchase a skip the line ticket online here which is what we would recommend doing as the cost is the same and you get to skip the ticket line.

From the Eiffel Tower it’s a 15-minute metro ride or half-hour walk to the Arc de Triomphe. If you walk, we suggest going via the Trocadero for great views back to the Eiffel Tower.

Champs-Élysées

From culture to consumerism! The Champs-Élysées is the most famous shopping street to Paris, particularly for luxury items. It’s over a mile long and is home to everything from car brands to clothing stores to French macaroon shops .

It’s also one of the major streets in Paris for celebrations. The Bastille Day military parade for example, passes down the Champs-Élysées every year on the 14th July, and Europe’s most famous cycling race, the Tour de France, has finished here every year since 1975.

The Arc De Triomphe is at one end of the Champs Elysees so it’s easy to get here!

• Tour Montparnasse

Our last suggested stop in Paris, if you still have time and stamina, is the Tour Montparnasse , one of our favourite photography locations in Paris . We’d even argue that if you only go up one “tower” in Paris, you make it this one. That’s because from the top you get a spectacular view of Paris that includes the Eiffel Tower.

The 210 metre high tower has two main observation decks, an inside one which is also home to a restaurant, and an open top floor deck. This is surrounded by glass, but it does have cutouts through which you can take pictures and avoid nasty reflections – something I wish more observation decks in towers had!

This is a wonderful spot for watching the sunset over the Paris, and experiencing the city turning into the “City of Light”, as all the street lights come on and the daylight fades through dusk into night. It’s also open late, so you can come up here relatively late into the evening to enjoy the view.

The Tour Montparnasse is next to Gare Montparnasse, from where you can get the bus to Orly Airport, or take the Metro / RER out to Charles De Gaulle, if your day in Paris doesn’t involve an overnight stop and you have to get out to a transport hub. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time to check-in and catch your flight.

There’s an entry fee for visiting, and you can either buy your tickets in person, or you can buy skip the line tickets in advance here on GetYourGuide . Free skip the line entry is also included for holders of the Paris Pass .

Map for Spending A Day in Paris

Here’s a map of the attractions to give you an idea of how it all fits together. As you can see, the route forms a rough circle, and sticks to central Paris, making it easier to get around. You can also see this map  here on Google Maps .

Paris 1 Day Itinerary Summary

Here’s an overview of what you will be doing on your day in Paris for quick reference:

• Louvre Museum
• Champs Elysees

How to Get Around Paris

Paris is an easy city to get around. For much of this itinerary you will be able to travel by foot, and then you can use public transport for any slightly longer trips. The Metro network is easy to use, and there are also buses. Jess loves using this Streetwise laminated map which also includes a metro map.

In terms of tickets, you can buy a single ticket which is valid on Zones 1 and 2 (this includes everywhere on our itinerary), and with this you can travel on either the bus, metro or RER (suburban railway). A better deal though is to buy a pack of ten tickets, known as a Carnet, which can only be loaded to a Navigo Easy card.

The Navigo Easy Card is a rechargeable card system which costs €2 to buy, but if you will be using public transport a few times the savings from the T10 carnet can add up.

Other than being electronically stored, the tickets work the same, so we would recommend visitors to Paris using the Navigo Easy system as the most cost effective method of paying for transport as a visitor to Paris.

You can buy the Navigo Easy card at all Paris Métro stations or RER ticket booths across the city.

It’s also possible to buy a ticket that is valid for a whole day. This is called a Paris Visite Pass. Depending on your situation, this may or may not be better value.

We have a full guide to how to get around Paris , which should help you plan your transport in the city.

Getting to and from Paris Airport

There are three major airports in Paris. Charles de Gaulle is the main airport for international arrivals, with Paris Orly being the second most popular international airport. Both of these airports are easily reachable by public transport from the city centre.

From Paris Orly to central Paris you can take the bus (see information here ), which takes 15 – 20 minutes to get to central Paris.

Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is a little further away. You have the option of taking the bus, which will be around 30-45 minutes, or you can take the RER train from the airport which takes between 25 and 50 minutes to Gare du Nord, depending on if it is a fast or a slow service.

Another option, which might be more cost effective if you are travelling in a group, is to take a taxi or private shuttle. This will take you for a fixed price from the airport to central Paris. You can book this service in advance here .

Walking Tours of Paris

If you want to see the highlights of Paris in a day, but would prefer to do so as part of a guided tour, then we suggest you take a look at Take Walks . We’ve used them for walking tours in cities around the world, and have never been disappointed.

They focus on small group tours, led by experts, and they have a number of walking tours in Paris we can recommend. These are:

• A full day walking tour of Paris which includes many of the highlights in our post, including a major art museum, the Eiffel Tower, and a Seine River Cruise
• A three hour tour that includes Saint Chapelle and Notre Dame
• They also have more tours in Paris, see all the options here

Of course, there are other operators running tours in Paris, such as  this delicious looking food tour ,  this in-depth tour of Hemingway locations  in Paris or  this tour of Montmartre .

As you can see, there are lots of good options for walking tours in Paris!

Where to Stay in Paris

If you have the time to spend a night in Paris, this will definitely give you more time to fit more into your day as you won’t have to rush off and catch a flight or train to your next destination. You might even be able to fit in a bit more sight-seeing, so check out our 2 day and 3 day Paris itineraries for some inspiration.

Paris has no shortage of accommodation options across a wide variety of budgets. Whilst it’s by no means a cheap destination, we think good value can be had. Based on our itinerary, we’d recommend finding somewhere as central as your budget will allow, to reduce time spent travelling to and from your accommodation.

Our recommended tool for finding accommodation in Paris  booking.com . They’re our favourite booking engine when we travel, usually giving us the best choice and the best prices. They also have everything, from apartments and hostels to high end hotels. Here are some options we suggest, depending on your budget.

• The People – Paris Marais , a well-reviewed hostel in the Marais, one of our favourite parts of Paris to stay
• Hôtel Eiffel Turenne , a well rated 3* hotel within a ten-minute walk of the Eiffel Tower
• Hotel Dress Code & Spa , a highly reviewed centrally located 4-star hotel right a few hundred yards from the opera house
• Hotel le Compostelle , a highly rated 3* hotel centrally located near the Louvre Museum
• The Montparnasse Studio Deluxe – a highly rated apartment right next to where our itinerary ends

If you prefer an apartment, then we recommend Plum Guide or Vrbo .

Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve stayed at a number of their properties around the world, including a beautiful apartment in Paris with spectacular Eiffel Tower views. See their listings for Paris here .

If you can’t find what you want from the above choices, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the  best alternatives to AirBnB  which you should check out!

We also have a page full of travel resources, which includes our tips for getting the best deals on accommodation, which you can find  here .

How to Save Money in Paris

Often when we put together a city itinerary, we recommend a city pass. For Paris, our favourite passes are the Paris Pass  (see our review here ) the Paris Museum Pass (see our review here ), and the Paris City Card .

For the Paris Pass, and the Paris Museum Pass, the minimum duration for both these passes is two days, which means that for just a day in Paris, you might not see much in the way of cost savings.

Here’s how the costs break down, as of November 2023, along with which passes they are included on and links to book tickets directly.

• Sainte Chapelle (€11.5) – included on Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass. Book online here .
• Louvre Museum (€17) – included on Paris Pass, Paris Museum Pass and Paris City Card. Book on  GetYourGuide here , or on the official site here .
• Eiffel Tower (€34 for guided tour, €11.30 for standard stair access ticket) – tour included on Paris City Card and Paris Pass. Book tickets on the official website here
• Seine River Cruise (€18) – included on Paris City Card and Paris Pass. Book online here .
• Arc de Triomphe (€13) – included on Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass. Book online here .
• Tour Montparnasse (€19) – included on Paris Pass. Book online here .

Whilst all the attractions are included on the Paris Pass, as this is only available for two days, we don’t think it offers good value.

Honestly, with only a day in Paris, we think you are better off booking individual tickets for each attraction for the best value for this Paris itinerary.

If you are in the city for a bit longer though, or choose to visit some different attractions, then they are definitely worth checking out. In this case, we recommend comparing inclusions and prices between the following attraction passes to see which might work for you:

• The Paris Pass  (see our review here )
• The Paris Museum Pass (see our review here )
• The Paris City Card
• The Go City Paris Explorer Pass

Practicalities for visiting Paris

Eating in paris.

Paris has a wide range of dining options to choose from, from Michelin starred restaurants through to bistros and cafes.  You certainly won’t go hungry!

Generally we don’t recommend specific restaurants as they can change so quickly, however we do have a guide to some of our favourite restaurants in Paris here to give you some options.

Usually you’ll find that most restaurants in Paris and France will offer some sort of menu of the day, or “menu du jour”, which can be a cost-effective way to get a great meal.

We’d also suggest that if you want to eat at one of the more popular restaurants in Paris that you consider booking in advance. We recommend and use La Fourchette (the fork), which is the most popular online restaurant booking website in France.

It’s easy to use and makes booking a breeze, especially if you don’t speak French. Check it out here to find reviews, sample menus and book a table.

Electricity in Paris is of the 220v standard, with the 2 pin European style plug. Travellers from countries like the UK and the US will need an adapter like this . See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

US travellers need to check their equipment supports the 220v standard – it will be written clearly on the power adapter. As a general rule, we have found that laptops, phone and camera chargers and other small electronics are universal, whilst larger devices like hair dryers and hair straighteners are not.

Paris is part of the Eurozone, so the currency is the Euro. You can get Euros from ATM’s, banks and currency exchanges, although credit cards are of course widely accepted, and there is no need to carry large quantities of currency.

Internet Access

Internet access is widely available in the form of WiFi all around the city and in hotels and coffee shops, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting online. You can also pick up local SIM cards if you have an unlocked phone. If you are travelling from the USA, consider a Google Fi package which lets you use your data overseas, or an eSIM service like Airalo .

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options. We also have a guide to picking the best travel router , which can help you extend a weak WiFi network and share it across multiple devices.

Water 

The water in the taps in Paris is safe to drink unless otherwise indicated. If you don’t like the taste, bottled water is widely available.

We usually recommend you travel with a re-usable water bottle like one of these to save on having to buy water bottles. We love our Klean Kanteen water bottles for travel as they are lightweight, easy to clean and the company is a certified B-Corp.

Paris is a safe city in our experience, although it does have a reputation for being home to a number of scams. Most of these are easy to avoid once you know about them (read up on some of the common scams in Paris here ).

As with any major city, of course you need to keep your wits about you – keep your possessions in view all the time, keep your wallet or phone in a front pocket (with a zip if possible), and don’t do anything that you wouldn’t do at home.

We’ve not had any problems in Paris, although there are a few scams to be aware of – check our guide to avoiding common Paris scams so you are prepared in advance.

Further Reading for Your Paris Visit

We’ve been lucky enough to visit Paris a number of times, and from our visits we’ve put together quite a few articles to help you plan your trip. We hope you find them useful!

• If you decide to stay longer, we have a guide to spending  3 Days in Paris , as well as a guide to spending 2 Days in Paris
• If you’re looking for good photos, we have a guide to the  best photography locations in Paris
• We have detailed guides to  choosing a Seine river cruise , Seine River dinner cruises , buying Paris opera tickets ,  attending a fashion show in Paris  and  saving money on Michelin starred restaurants in Paris
• We have a detailed  review of the Paris Pass , to help you decide if it might save you money
• Galeries Lafayette is one of the most well-known stores in Paris. However, there’s more to do here than shop! See our complete guide to visiting Galeries Lafayette for more information.
• If you like afternoon tea, check out our definitive guide to the  best afternoon tea locations in Paris
• We have a detailed guide to attending the famous Moulin Rouge show in Paris
• For walking tours in Paris, we can recommend both  Context Tours  (link gives 10% off) and  Take Walks who both offer tours in Paris.
• If you want a guide book to Paris, we always like to recommend the Rick Steves guides – here’s the  Rick Steves Paris  edition. We also recommend the Lonely Planet guides, and they have a guidebook on Paris .

And that’s it for our guide to getting the most from a day in Paris! Is Paris on your travel list? Would you visit Paris for just a day? Do you have any feedback or questions about our day in Paris? Let us know in the comments below!

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There are 32 comments on this post

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6th November 2022 at 4:04 pm

Hello Laurence, Your blog is very helpful. Thank you and I appreciate it. We are traveling to Paris august 24 arrival early at 645 am. It’s our first time, from CDG airport what transportation that can you recommend going to hotel? I am going to book the hotel dress code and spa or can you recommend centralize hotel. We would like to visit rue de bac For St. CAtherone laborie church? Lastly we would like to visit Lourdes for one day an overnight stay there ( can you recommend a hotel please) will take a train from paris and then from there take a train going to London. Any suggestions please?

Thank you so much in advance and for taking time to read my questions.

Many Thanks, Karen

Laurence Norah says

7th November 2022 at 11:10 am

Probably the easiest option from Paris to the Hotel Dress Code & Spa (which is a good centrally located option) is the Roissybus . It will drop you at Opera which is a five-minute walk from the hotel. So that is probably what I would recommend. You can also book a car transfer service , which will be a bit more expensive (depending on group size), but will take you door to door.

For Lourdes we don’t have any experience as we haven’t visited. I’d recommend visiting this page on booking.com for Lourdes , and then choosing a property based on price. It is already filtered to those properties with a good guest review score.

Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

10th November 2022 at 12:28 am

Thank you so much and taking time to answer my questions. 😊

Linda King says

14th May 2022 at 12:11 pm

This is really helpful. Thanks. I have one day in Paris alone, and a second with my husband who is abandoning me on day 1 to attend a conference :-/ We have booked tickets to Versailles, but apparently you can’t leave luggage at the moment? We want to take a picnic, and brollies just in case, but it says they’re not allowed. Any hints?! Linda

15th May 2022 at 8:21 am

So according to the Versailles website , there is left luggage available on site. I’m not sure where you saw that it is closed, but I can’t find reference to that. In terms of picnics, you can picnic in certain areas, as described here .

Hope this helps, have a great time in Paris!

peter Murrell says

19th January 2020 at 9:45 pm

Can I walk around the grounds of Museum Louvre as i am more interested in talking photos of the exterior.

20th January 2020 at 9:54 am

Yes, the exterior of the building including the famous glass pyramid is open to all and free to walk around,

Peter Murrell says

20th January 2020 at 11:44 am

Thank you Laurence.

18th December 2019 at 9:05 pm

Hello, My father is travelling to USA , has a layover in pairs for a day. He would like to see the places in pairs and prefer to take taxis for all the places. Can you please provide me list of taxi services which are cheaper and trustworthy. Can i book them in the online? If so, please provide me the websites and please let me know about 1 day packages for taxi? And what would the minimum cost for taxi from/to airport to hotel to sightseeing places. Does taxi drivers accept credit cards/travel cards? Please reply me asap so that i can make necessary arrangements. Thanks!

19th December 2019 at 1:57 pm

My suggestion would be rather than trying to book a series of taxis, would be to book a specific layover tour. These are designed for the purpose you have in mind, and can be booked in advance and tailored to your need. For example, there’s this layover tour , plus a selection of others here .

20th December 2019 at 5:47 pm

Thank you Laurence. This Blog and your suggestions help me explore more things about Paris. Thanks alot!

21st December 2019 at 6:52 pm

My pleasure Harry – have a wonderful time in Paris, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions 🙂

K V Mohan says

25th September 2019 at 10:18 am

Hi I will be in Paris from 14/12/19 afternoon till 15/12/19 with my wife & daughter. First time visit, heard scam and conman stories in Paris. Also heard Parisians don’t like to speak English. Need your kind advise and itineraries. Thank you.

25th September 2019 at 9:20 pm

So there are a few scams in Paris, but I cover most of them in this post: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/tips-for-surviving-scams-of-paris/

To be honest, anything that seems to good to be true is, and ignore anyone with a clipboard or who tries to give you something “for free” and you should be fine.

In terms of Parisians being unfriendly or unwilling to speak English, this is definitely a well perpetuated stereotype. I’ve personally not found it to be true, although it depends how you approach it. Personally, I always try to start with a few words of French, like “bonjour”, and then most Parisians in my experience will realise I am not a native speaker, and switch to English. However, if one starts in English, this can sometimes work out less well.

However, consider if a French person appeared in your home town and launched into French, I’d suspect most people wouldn’t be too excited about that. So I think this is quite normal 🙂

I hope you have a great time in France!

26th September 2019 at 1:01 am

Thank you very much for your kind reply,hope to have a wonderful trip to Paris.

Ty Stewart says

13th September 2019 at 8:59 pm

I have a 7 hour layover in CDG Sept. 30. What do you recommend for seeing as much of Paris I can?

14th September 2019 at 2:46 pm

if you have not been to Paris before, then my recommendation would be to visit the Eiffel Tower and then take a Seine River Cruise. This will use up around 3 hours in total I’d say. You have to consider the time getting in and out of Paris as well, which will probably be around an hour each way, so that’s five hours. With your final couple of hours, you could have a meal, wander the left bank, or visit the Arc de Triomphe. You could also visit the outside of the Louvre, but I’m not sure it would be worth going inside unless you did a really quick visit.

I hope this helps – have a great trip!

16th September 2019 at 2:23 pm

Laurence, Thanks for the quick reply. I will let you know how it goes when I return home.

Anna Nelson says

9th September 2019 at 7:43 pm

Hiya folks, I will be visiting Paris for a day in January 2020 with an overnight stay.. Landing in CDG.. Is the itinerary recommended here good for winter too ? Any other tips ?

10th September 2019 at 9:14 am

It will certainly work for winter. The only thing to be aware of is that it gets dark a bit earlier in winter and obviously it’s colder, but the good news is that there will be less visitors to the city 🙂 I don’t think you need to change anything though, just wrap up warmly 🙂

Have a great trip!

Dave makota says

13th May 2019 at 11:55 am

Thank you very much for this guide. It was very useful for me when I visited Paris!

13th May 2019 at 5:21 pm

Our pleasure Dave, delighted to have been able to help!

Rajesh Kalla says

21st March 2019 at 4:56 am

I plan to be in Paris on way to Barcelona from 17th to 19th of June;2019. I have visited Paris in 2011 just for a day . However want to experience life in Paris without the guided tour. Would like to spend time walking .Have coffee at Maxims. Kindly guide how to reach from CDG Airport to City center. I am staying at Airport hotel Thanking you in advance. Rajesh

21st March 2019 at 11:01 am

The section of the post on how to get to Paris CDG from the airport should answer your question: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/paris-in-a-day-a-1-day-paris-itinerary/#Getting-to-and-from-Paris-Airport

I’d suggest taking the RER train into central Paris, it’s quite easy to do, you can buy a ticket at the train station 🙂

Lisa Shaw says

15th March 2019 at 6:19 am

Such wonderful tips, thank you so much! Will be in Europe for the first time ever, and Paris from May 5-7, 2019, all the way from Hawaii! Arrive the 5th, and leave the 7th. My boyfriend is not thrilled about a lot of walking and is not comfortable exploring on our own (unlike me, who LOVES to walk every where!) So I was looking for a tour that hits the main sites, as you listed: 1. Notre Dame 2. The Louvre 3. Champs-Élysées 4. Arc de Triomphe 5. Eiffel Tower 6. Seine River Cruise 7. Tour Montparnasse Any suggestions for a tour that covers the above? Mahalo nui loa!

15th March 2019 at 4:45 pm

So I have a couple of options for you, but this is quite a tough ask 😉 Many of the guided tours in Paris involve walking – it’s often faster than taking a vehicle due to traffic, and parking is also a challenge in the city. In addition, finding a tour that includes all of the above is probably going to be a bit of a challenge too!

I have done my best though to come up with some options for you.

So the first option option is this tour . It covers many of the sights you’ve requested, including the River Cruise, lunch at the Eiffel Tower and a guided visit of Notre Dame and the Louvre. I think this is a good starting point, although it does note in the description that there is some walking, largely in the attractions. The walking does seem to be minimal as the longer distances are covered by boat. With the inclusions it’s also pretty good value I think.

Another option would be to take a Hop on Hop off bus. This will hit all the major sites you want to see, however you would have to plan your own itinerary and this wouldn’t be guided.

Lastly, the tour I mention in the post is this full day walking tour of Paris . So obviously that one is going to involve some walking, but the tour does include metro rides between the main sites, so the only real walking will be around the various attractions, which is kind of unavoidable 🙂

Hopefully one of these options works for you. Have a wonderful time in Paris!

4th February 2019 at 8:44 pm

Booked a last minute trip to Paris for the day and this is exactly what i needed to help plan my trip as there is no much detail and information. Thanks so much!

5th February 2019 at 11:22 am

My pleasure Zay – have a wonderful time!

Shivank Sharma says

9th November 2018 at 11:50 am

This is excellent work, Something I was looking for, Really appreciate the details, maps and written guidelines.

11th November 2018 at 6:08 pm

Our pleasure Shivank – have a wonderful trip to Paris!

21st August 2018 at 12:07 pm

I have been to Paris on 2 separate occasions for multiple days each but you still were able to suggest places I haven’t been. I will definately be reading up your guides before my next visit.

21st August 2018 at 12:17 pm

Awesome to hear that 😀

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The Perfect 1 Day in Paris Itinerary (with a map!)

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Paris is a must-see city for any traveller interested in seeing the gorgeous architecture first-hand, exploring the sophisticated French culture, indulging in the food, and taking advantage of the city’s many photo ops. Although Paris deserves at least a few days, it is certainly possible to craft the perfect 1 day in Paris itinerary.

Paris has an array of attractions that simply can’t be ignored. Aside from the recognizable Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées, the city arguably boasts more historical sites than any other.

Plus, who can forget the irresistible French pâtisserie? 

In only one day you can cover a lot of the top tourist attractions, especially if you are strategic with your itinerary. But lucky for you I’ve got you covered with this jam-packed day in Paris. 

Let’s dive in and see what’s in store for your epic day in Paris itinerary!

24 Hours in Paris Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick sneak peek of what your itinerary for Paris in one day includes for quick reference!

🛎️ Accommodation:

• Eiffel Petit Louvre ($150+ USD per night) — for incredible Eiffel Tower views
• Hotel Crayon ($120+ USD per night) — to feel like you’re in a French artist’s studio
• St. Christopher’s Gare du Nord ($19+ USD per night) — for the ultimate budget hostel stay

🎫 Top tour to book: Seine evening river cruise

💃 Activities on this itinerary:

• French Pâtisserie for breakfast
• Louvre Museum ( get tickets ahead of time here )
• Stroll through the Tuileries Gardens
• Place de la Concorde
• The Pont Alexandre III
• Window shop down the Champs-Élysées
• Arc de Triomphe ( book rooftop tickets here )
• Picnic at the Eiffel Tower 
• Sunset River Cruise ( tickets here )

Map of your Paris itinerary

Who doesn’t love a map to visualise how you are going to conquer this epic Paris itinerary in 1 day?

I’ve made your life easy by creating a visual map that you can simply adjust to remove or add any other additional sites you want to see!

The map also gives you an outline of the best route to take for the below itinerary recommendations!

Save this map to your phone or go old school and print a copy off before you head out. 

1 day in Paris itinerary

Let’s now dive into my recommended itinerary. 

Heads up, this is not a leisurely itinerary –that’s just not possible when you only have one day – so be sure to wear your best walking shoes, bring a water bottle and some snacks to keep you going!

8:00 am: Devour some French pâtisserie

Start your day off right with a high-end, hand-crafted pastry or bread from BO&MIE Louvre-Rivoli . Grab a seat near the window to enjoy your pain au chocolat and coffee whilst people-watching. 

Now you can tick off indulging in French pâtisserie from your bucket lis t ! 

9:00 am: Louvre Museum

Take a short 200m stroll (about 3 minutes) from BO&MIE Louvre-Rivoli to the Louvre for your next destination. The Louvre Museum opens at 9 am sharp and is closed on Tuesdays. If you are visiting on a Tuesday I think it is still worth a visit to enjoy the outside of the museum and a short walk through Tuileries Garden next door.

Entry costs €15 and can be purchased when you arrive. There can be a long line so I suggest arriving a bit before 9 am. You can also purchase tickets online to go straight to the entry lines.

It is definitely worth a visit since it has some of the best collections of artwork in the world and allows you to immerse yourself in French history. 

Just a word of warning, don’t be too alarmed by all the armed soldiers, they are there to keep you safe in Paris .

When in the Louvre keep an eye out for the following famous pieces and artists:

• The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci – don’t be surprised if you are underwhelmed. It was a lot smaller than I expected and getting a good look is tough as it often has swarms of visitors.
• The Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault
• Venus de Milo statue
• Liberty Leading The People By Eugène Delacroix
• Portrait Of Louis XIV By Hyacinthe Rigaud

10:45 am: Place de la Concorde

Next up take a 15-minute walk from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde through the beautiful Tuileries Garden. The Tuileries Garden is a public garden located in the heart of Paris and makes for a beautiful stroll.

Place de la Concorde is situated at the end of the Champs-Elysées and is the second-largest square in France.

Originally known for having been an execution site during the French Revolution in which Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette (among others) were guillotined. Whether you are interested in the history or admiring the bronze fountains and ancient obelisk, it’s worth the stop. 

12 pm: The Pont Alexandre III

This next stop I recommend on your Paris itinerary is a bridge I stumbled across on my trip and was truly in awe of the extravagant gold-plated gilded winged horse statues.

Take a quick 8-minute walk from Place de la Concorde to the Pont Alexandre III.

The Pont Alexandre is a fantastic stop for getting gorgeous photos. From the bridge, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower of the Seine.

It is a majestic spot to pause and soak in the moment. 

1 pm: Champs-Élysées

The next stop is a longer walk at around 1.8 km but, don’t worry because it’s time for a bite to eat and perhaps something to drink!

In 20-30 minutes you will arrive at the center of the Champs-Élysées. Alternatively, take the Metro, an inexpensive way to get around the city.

Champs-Élysées is a famous avenue in Paris, France. It is known for its shops, cafes, theaters, and monuments. The avenue runs for 1.9 kilometers from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the avenue and admire the beautiful architecture, fountains, and gardens. Stop by one of the many luxury boutiques and flagship stores along the avenue, such as Louis Vuitton, Guerlain, and Cartier, or stick to window shopping. 

And by now I’m sure you’re pretty hungry and ready for a break. Enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants on the Champs-Élysées, ranging from casual to fine dining.

Dine in a Michelin-star restaurant such as Yannick Alléno or settle into somewhere more low-key such as Le Chatet du 8ème , a cozy crêperie.

3 pm: Arc de Triomphe 

When you get to the end of Champs-Élysées you will find the Arc de Triomphe. 

The Arc de Triomphe is a famous monument located in Paris, France, and it is definitely worth a visit.

The monument serves as a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars and is the site of several important national events, such as the annual Bastille Day military parade. It is an impressive architectural masterpiece, standing 50 meters tall and featuring intricate carvings, sculptures, and reliefs. 

Climb up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris including the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the surrounding neighborhoods. The view is particularly stunning at sunset.

Overall, the Arc de Triomphe is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and beauty.

4 pm: Picnic at the Eiffel Tower 

Next up, take a 30-minute walk to the Eiffel Tower or take the 6 metro from Bir-Hakeim station to Charles de Gaulle Étoile station.

Having a picnic by the Eiffel Tower is a quintessential Parisian experience, and there are many countless reasons why I have added it to your itinerary.

Firstly, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, and having a picnic in its shadow offers a stunning and unforgettable view. Whether you’re sitting on the Champ de Mars or across the Seine, you can enjoy the sight of this magnificent structure towering above you. 

Secondly, picnicking is a beloved French pastime, and having a picnic in Paris is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Pick up some fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine at a local market, and enjoy a simple yet delicious meal in a beautiful setting. 

And lastly, eating out in Paris can be expensive, but having a picnic is a cost-effective way to enjoy a meal while taking in the city’s sights and sounds. Some markets you can visit include Franprix, Carrefour, and Monoprix, and grab a baguette from a local boulangerie for the most fresh bread.

If you have time, you can certainly also line up and travel up to the top. It’s a view you will never forget.

7 pm: Sunset Seine River cruise

After your picnic, stroll down to the Seine River for a sunset cruise . 

A sunset Seine cruise in Paris is a magical experience that allows you to see some of the most beautiful sights in Paris as the sun goes down. 

The warm glow of the setting sun, combined with the twinkling lights of the city, creates a truly enchanting ambiance. Spot the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum from a unique unforgettable angle.

I’m sure you’ll also enjoy an activity that allows you to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. Rest your feet and skip the crowds and traffic. What a win!

Other attractions to sub in!

If any of the above doesn’t quite tickle your fancy, sub in one of these other popular attractions.

Or perhaps I’ve convinced you how great Paris is so you’ve decided to extend your trip for another day or so.

• Book a Moulin Rouge show
• Take a food tour ( this one of Le Marais is a favorite)
• Take a stroll through the Latin Quarter

• Check out the oldest stone bridge, Pont Neuf
• See Van Gough’s artwork and other Impressionist art at Musée d’Orsay
• Roam around Île de la Cité and see Saint Chapelle

Where to stay in Paris

You may or not be spending the night in Paris during your visit, but just in case, here are some recommendations and suggestions for booking your perfect accommodation. 

Hotels with Eiffel Tower views

If you have the budget, why not treat yourself to waking up to views of the Eiffel tower? Not to mention the sparkle at night as you begin to wind down for the day with a beautiful glass of red. It’s only one night after all!

These hotels are very pricey as they come with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Below are probably some of the best value hotels you are going to find if you are after prime location and Eiffel tower views.

Eiffel Petit Louvre

Located only a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel tower and the River Seine, the last two stops of the day, this gorgeous hotel is perfect for unwinding after your long day exploring. The Eiffel Tower peers over the top of the hotel and can be enjoyed from some rooms. Starting at 205€  per night, this is a great option for those looking for a taste of luxury without the huge price tag. 

Citadines Tour Eiffel

Citadines would be my personal pick as the studio room with Eiffel Tower views is an extremely good value, for Paris that is. From 300€  per night, you will walk into a contemporary-styled room with an equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and of course, double paneled windows that open up to reveal unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower. 

Hôtel La Comtesse

Cranking the luxury up a notch, Comtesse Hotel is a 19th-century building in a prime location for Eiffel Tower views. Only a 15-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, you know it won’t be far away when you finish your day. The rooms are decked out in contemporary décor that is inspired by the literary salons from the 18th century.

Relax at a comfortable mid-range stay in the heart of Paris

Moving onto the perfect in-between stays that aren’t going to break the bank but also don’t involve staying in bunk bed room with 7 other strangers.

Hôtel Victoria Châtelet

Located 1km from the Louvre, each room is individually decorated with unique, colourful art pieces. You will be amazed at how beautifully each room is styled.

Hôtel Crayon by Elegancia

An eclectic hotel located even closer to the Louvre at just 500 m away! Perfect if you are staying the night before your full day in Paris, since the Louvre is our first stop. Each room is decorated like an artist’s studio so enjoy a unique one-of-a-kind experience. 

Hotel Louvre Bon Enfants

This next hotel is also located right near the Louvre so you can roll out of bed and kick off your jam-packed day without having to commute. The hotel has bright modern decor with a french flare. A comfortable, yet reasonably priced place to relax and unwind. 

Save some money and bunk at a hostel 

On a tight budget? Spend your money out enjoying the sites instead of on accommodation by staying in a hostel. Plus, you may even make a few friends. You can browse all hostels in Paris here , or here’s a recommendation.

St Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord

I stayed in St Christopher’s on my first trip to Paris and had a great stay. It is located right near the train station so it’s easy to start your day and roll on home. The hostel beds have curtains which are a huge bonus in my books and there is a social sports bar on the ground floor where you socialise and score cheap drinks.

Moving onto some commonly asked questions. Let’s get it all sorted.

Is 1 day for Paris enough?

Let’s be honest, one day is not much time to explore all that is on offer in the French capital. 

BUT…with a strategic itinerary, you can get around to the most popular attractions that make Paris the special city it is.

Personally, I much prefer slower travel so I can truly immerse myself in the culture and get around to the less travelled hidden gems. But sometimes you do have 1-day stopovers and you need to make the most of them! 

So in summary, no 1 day in Paris is not enough. But with this itinerary, you will leave feeling like you have scraped the surface and will be satisfied knowing you have seen world-renowned attractions. 

Related read >> How to spend 4 days in Paris

Best time of year visit Paris

So you’ve decided you want to go to Paris, but when should you go?

The good news is that no matter what time of the year you visit, you’ll find plenty of spectacular things to do and fascinating attractions to see. 

Although each season and each month has pros and cons including budget, weather, and local events, generally summer (June – August) and autumn (September – November) are your best bet. 

While the summertime is quite warm and crowded, the major pro is that the weather is exceptional. The sun doesn’t set until after 10 p.m! This is exactly what you want to go exploring the city!

Although major attractions stay open all year, except for major holidays, it is important to note that during August some shops, Michelin-starred bistros, galleries, and boutiques will close as Parisians leave for holidays. 

Best way to get around Paris

To explore Paris in 1 day, you need to think carefully about how you are going to get around. The last thing you want is to waste time trying to navigate the best way to get around and money!

Below are the best ways I have found to get around and how I managed to navigate them.

One of the best ways to get around Paris is by walking. When I visited Paris in July the weather was bearable to spend most of the day on foot. I ended up walking 16.2km or 23,000 steps.

Paris is a walkable city. If you combine it with catching the Metro or jumping on a bus for longer journeys and resting your feet, you will end up seeing a lot more beyond just the destinations. 

I think it’s important to walk at a slower pace and take in the streets, architecture and people-watch the locals. It’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey! Cheesy, but very true!

Metro Line 

The Paris Metro is the fastest way of getting around the city. The underground system has 16 interconnected lines and is also connected to the express train RER.

A metro station will be labeled with a large “M”. Most stations will have a large metro map at the entrance and at the platform. Alternatively, you can check out the map here .

For only one day exploring, I would just buy individual tickets as you go at the train station. Make sure to note the zone to which you want to travel to ensure you buy the appropriately priced ticket. 

If you are staying for longer, check out the weekly or monthly travel cards: Paris Visite and Passe Navigo.

Electric Scooter

Like many other major cities these days there are lots of electric scooter (and bike) options. 

The perfect in-between walking and taking public transport! 

Just ensure you wear a helmet, please and thank you!

Hop on hop off buses

As with many other major cities that attract thousands of tourists, hop-on and hop-off buses are in no shortage.

Hop on and hop off buses are a great way to get around to major attractions for free or for really cheap! Plus you’ll also get to learn some of the city’s history. 

If you really want to skip the logistics of planning your 1-day itinerary and want to learn more about the places you are visiting consider taking a walking tour or arranging a local tour guide. 

Although I haven’t done this in Paris, I have experienced a private walking tour during my stay in New York . On the first day of our trip to the Big Apple, our local tour guide took us to a mix of obvious attractions and local secret spots. 

He gave us tips only a local would know such as how to frequent the subway, where to order coffee, when to move a car for the street sweepers, and what places are overrated and can be skipped from our itineraries.

Overall, I think tour guides can be an excellent way to explore the best of a city and delegate the logistics of travel planning. 

And that’s it for our guide to getting the most from one day in Paris! By following this itinerary you will get to see some of the best places in Paris in a very short amount of time.

Check out these other France posts:

• How to spend 4 days in Paris
• Tips for traveling solo to Paris
• France travel guide
• Things to do in Mont St. Michel, France

My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
• Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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Guest Author

Olivia is the founder of the travel blog Defining Decade. As a young Aussie traveller, she is the go-to guide for unlocking the world of travel in your twenties.

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Alanna Koritzke

While Alanna (the human behind Periodic Adventures) knows a lot about travel planning and lots of destinations, she in fact does not know everything (we're shocked too). But that's why we've called in this guest author, to share their expertise to bring you the best tips, guidance, and recommendations so you can continue planning your next big (or little) adventure!

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Paris In A Day: How to Spend One Day In Paris (+ Maps & Tips)

Traveling to France but you only have one day in Paris ? This post will give you a detailed itinerary on how to see Paris in a day and get the most out of your short visit.

Paris is a fantastic city! It’s so beautiful that it would be a shame not to spend several days there!

But if you are just in Paris for 1 day, on a budget, have a stopover or for some other reason you can’t spend more time in the French capital, then this post will help you prepare the perfect visit to make the most out of your Parisian trip!

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

In this Paris 1 day itinerary, there is something for everyone! From museums , historical monuments , shopping, nice strolls, French coffee, to French food ! You will inevitably find satisfaction and see so much even if you’re just spending 24 hours in Paris.

To get the most out of your one day in Paris, you’ll need to wake up early, be able to fit as much as possible in the 24 hours, and be ready to walk since most of the Paris attractions are not far from each other.

But before we look at the things to see in Paris in a day, you’ll need where to stay, and here are my expert suggestions.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Where To Stay When Visiting Paris for a Day

Budget Accommodation

Generator Hostel: If you’re traveling to Paris on budget, then the Generator hostel   in the 10th. Arrondissement is the best choice for you. It offers many amenities and offers stunning views. Book your stay at Generator from here .

City Inn Paris: It is cheap and perfectly located. Book your stay at City Inn Paris from here .

Mid-range Accommodation

Hôtel Paris La Fayette: It has nice rooms and friendly staff. Book a room at this hotel from here .

Hôtel Eiffel Turenne: This is the best hotel if you want to stay near the Eiffel Tower on a mid-range budget. You can book a room at this hotel from here .

Luxury Accommodation

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris: This hotel commands luxury in every aspect and it also offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. You can book your stay at this hotel from here .

Hôtel Raphael: This is the perfect hotel if you want to stay near the Champs-Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe without compromising on luxury. You can book a room at this hotel from here .

You can also check out other  hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower views  or these  Paris hotels near the Louvre  if you want to stay near the famous museum. But if you prefer an apartment rental, check out my list of the best Airbnbs with Eiffel Tower views .

How to spend one day in Paris: The perfect Paris one day itinerary

Heads up: This is quite a long and detailed itinerary! If you want a summary, I have one at the end of this guide but if you don’t want to plan any of this on your own, I have also included a summary itinerary with specific tours that will take you through all the highlights of Paris in a day. Now let’s dive in!

Step 1: Enjoy A sunrise at the Trocadero

To make the most of your one day trip to Paris, leave your hotel before dawn! Put on your best walking shoes and head to the Trocadero for a memorable sunrise in front of Paris’ most emblematic monument!

To be more accurate, go to the esplanade of the Trocadero (Trocadero square). This gigantic balcony offers unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower and it is one of the best places to watch a sunrise in Paris . It is indeed the ideal place to enjoy the first lights of the day embracing the Iron Lady.

The terraces and gardens shape a gentle slope bordered by walnut trees and the century-old hazel trees offer a breathtaking view of the large basin of the Trocadero gardens.

From here, you will get panoramic views of the Pont d’Iéna in the foreground, the Fountain of Warsaw , the Eiffel Tower , and the grand Champ-de-Mars , with a vast open-air garden at the foot of the tower in the background!

The place offers a lot of sitting areas, so I recommend preparing a picnic breakfast to make the most of the moment!

From the Palais de Chaillot square , the sun will rise on the left side of the tower, so if you move slightly to the right of the square you will be able to get the sun in the very middle of the tower’s heart!

The best part about visiting the Trocadero Square at sunrise is that there will be few people, so you can take as many photos of the Iron Lady as you wish as this is one of the best spots to take photos of the Eiffel Tower .

Step 2: Get an Upclose look at the Eiffel Tower From Champs de Mars

Once you have admired the sunrise, go down the stairs, and cross Pont Iéna. This bridge, listed as a historical monument and decorated with four large statues of knights, is the first bridge built in tribute to Napoleon’s victory in Iéna in 1806.

A few more steps and you’ll finally be at the Eiffel Tower , the symbol of Paris. The Eiffel Tower was named after its brilliant architect Gustave Eiffel and it has dominated the Parisian landscape since 1889.

Its construction which took over a period of 2 years was a real challenge from an architectural point of view. While it was initially destined to remain for only about twenty years, its immense popular success saved it from destruction!

Unfortunately, recent public security measures against terrorist attacks now prevent people from walking freely under the tower without buying a ticket and going through security checks.

Since you only have one day in Paris, I advise you not to climb the tower because it is rather long, moreover if you left at dawn to watch the sunrise, you will probably have to wait for the opening time at 9:30 am.

However, if you feel compelled to wait and climb the tower, make sure that you  buy this skip-the-line entry ticket  to avoid the long queues.

But don’t worry! If you want to have a view of the rooftops of Paris, continue reading this 1 day in Paris itinerary and you will not be disappointed!

You can continue your walk, and take the small paths that cross the gardens of Champs de Mars , one of the largest parks in Paris .

Each corner of this large park offers a unique view of the Eiffel Tower. Walk up to the end of the garden to the “Wall for Peace” erected in March 2000, in front of the Military Academy.

Once you reach the end of the park, turn right and go to the “ La Motte-Picquet Grenelle” metro station, and head to Arc de Triomphe; the next stop of the day!

Time spent on this visit: 2 hours Distance covered by foot: 2 kilometers Price: Free of charge.

If you didn’t have breakfast during sunrise or if you want to take a little gourmet break before the next stage, I recommend the Kozy Paris (79 Avenue Bosquet) or Le Royale restaurant (212 Rue de Grenelle) which are both very close to the gardens of the Champs de Mars and ideal for breakfast.

Related post: Things to know before visiting the Eiffel Tower

Step 3: Climb The Arc de Triomphe

Once in the “La Motte Picquet Grenelle” station, jump into the subway to reach the “Charles De Gaulle-Etoile” station via line 6.

If you don’t know how to take the metro in Paris, don’t worry everything is explained in my previous post about visiting Paris for the first time .

Allow 15 minutes by metro to reach your destinations. The special feature of this route is that it is mostly aerial!

Keep your camera in hand because the crossing of the Seine on the viaduct above the Bir-Hakeim bridge is particularly aesthetic and offers another point of view of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine before going underground again.

Once you arrive, leave the station and be prepared to be astonished! You’ll be right in front of the majestic Arc de Triomphe “!

This vast French landmark , erected in honor of the soldiers who died in action during Napoleon’s wars commands respect and admiration.

Under the arch, a flame burns continuously honoring the tomb of an unidentified soldier. Many sculptures, bas-reliefs, and inscriptions can be admired from its square on the pedestals of the monuments.

This landmark witnesses popular events such as the arrival of the Tour de France cycling race every year or more dramatic historical events such as the remembrance of Nazi occupation during the Second World War.

This place of paramount importance for Parisians at both the historical and political levels is undoubtedly worth a visit.

Take the underpass to reach the colossus (do not cross the road that surrounds it as pedestrians are forbidden here and it is very risky. But rather take the underground!).

Access to the square is free, so let yourself be enchanted by the imposing stature of the building, read the markings, and admire the carvings on the walls.

You can purchase tickets on-site for access, although you may have to queue. But to avoid the queue, I advise you to purchase this skip-the-line ticket in advance.

Once you have your ticket in hand, start the climb! At the end of the 280 steps, you’ll finally reach the balcony. This view is simply exceptional and, in my opinion, the most beautiful view of Paris .

The name of this square, the Place de l’étoile (literally star square) takes on its full meaning as you admire the convergence of the 12 avenues that run through the capital.

From here, you’ll have a 360-degree view of Paris from the business district of La Défense , the Eiffel Tower , and the Montmartre hilltop to the Sacré Coeur !

The view of the avenues also offers a good overview of what can be the traffic in Paris. For the record, Place de l’Etoile is one of the most chaotic squares in Paris and many Parisians think that you are not a real driver until you have crossed it from end to end!

Of course, it is also the ideal place to admire “the most beautiful avenue in the world”, the Avenue des Champs Elysées ! But to make sure you don’t miss anything, I suggest you go and have a look! It’s our next step.

Time spent on this visit: 1h 30 Distance covered on foot: Just the climb! Price: Arc-de-Triomphe entrance ticket : 13€.

Step 4: Stroll The Champs Elysées

The mythical avenue of the capital, the Champs Elysées is one of the most beautiful streets in Paris .

Located between the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde , a stroll along its immense street will allow you to discover luxury brands, the most prominent restaurants, palaces, prestigious places to go out (Lido, Queen, Theatres…) cafés, and other chic bistros.

It is logically one of the most crowded places in the city and ideally one of the places to visit in Paris in one day.

The avenue is 2.5 km long, so it will take you between 30 to 50 minutes to walk the avenue down according to your walking pace and of course not forgetting the many stop-overs in the different stores!

This avenue is so important in the history of Paris that Bastille Day , the French national holiday, is officially celebrated here.

Going down the Champs Elysées to the Place de la Concorde is a guilty pleasure as tourists often forget its historical importance and devote themselves solely to shopping.

This is understandable because it is the temple of consumerism! All the biggest brands have their own shops and everything pushes you to go on a shopping spree!

If you are not too much of a window-shopper, or just simply on a budget, I still advise you to walk a few minutes down the avenue to have a glimpse of it and then get into the “ George V ” metro station on line 1, direction “ Château De Vincennes ” until the station “ Champs Élysées Clemenceau “, our next stop.

For those who wish to walk, simply start from the Arc de Triomphe and head towards Place de la Concorde .

Walk along the avenue until you see the “ Jardins des Champs-Élysées ” on your left and the “ Grand Palais ” on your right, then turn right to Avenue Winston Churchill to get to the next step!

Time spent on this visit: 1 hour on foot, 20 minutes by subway. Distance covered on foot: 2 Km if you decide to walk the whole avenue, 500 meters if you take the metro. Price: Free unless you succumb to the sirens of shopping!

Related post:  Easy day trips from Paris by train

Step 5: Visit The Grand Palais, Alexander III Bridge, and the Hotel des Invalides.

Going down Churchill Avenue towards Pont Alexandre III , you will find yourself in one of the most grandiose and impressive places in Paris.

On your right is the Grand Palais , on your left is his little sister Le Petit Palais , and on the banks of the Seine, the statue of Churchill faces the magnificent Pont Alexandre III with the massive Hotel des Invalides as a focal point.

The Grand Palais is an iconic monument in Paris that was built in 1900 for the World Fair. It is characterized by its large glass dome flanked by the French flag.

Dedicated to the glory of art, science, and refinement, the building itself is an architectural feat.

Recognizable by its immense nave 240 m wide (the largest in Europe) made of glass, steel, and iron, this unique building now houses a multitude of very diverse events from the most prestigious to the most unusual, art exhibitions, museums, and even a movie theater!

Take a walk around to appreciate its architectural grandeur, every nook and cranny is a treat for pictures! If you love art, a tour of one of the temporary exhibitions will delight you.

The exhibition themes are diverse and varied, so there is definitely something for everyone. Check the official website, and book your tickets online to avoid queues because they can be very long!

Once your visit is finished, head towards the River Seine to cross over the Pont Alexandre III . Paris has many bridges which are all beautiful but this one is by far my favorite because of its architecture and location.

At its end lie four huge 17-meter-high sculptures with winged horses representing art, science, commerce, and industry respectively.

This grandiloquent bridge named in honor of the renowned Russian Tsar Alexander III connects the 7th and 8th arrondissements. It is a message of peace and a symbol of harmony between Russia and France.

In addition to being stunning thanks to its antique sculptures and candelabra, the bridge offers a unique view over the Seine and the Eiffel Tower!

At the very end of the bridge stands the huge Hotel des Invalides . Don’t trust its name because this place is not a hotel at all!

This huge complex of historic buildings is, in fact, a place dedicated to the military memory of France, housing a museum, a mausoleum, various monuments, and even a retirement home for former soldiers.

The name “ Hotel des Invalides ” was chosen because the building was initially built for all officers and soldiers maimed by the wars during the reign of Louis XIV in 1670.

If you are a military art enthusiast and the history of the various French wars, then this museum is for you. To have priority access to the museum, make sure you buy this online ticket from here beforehand.

For the others, I suggest you explore the surroundings. Then go back and cross the Seine again and move on to the next step of your visit!

Time spent on this visit: 30 Minutes. Allow at least 2 more hours if you visit the Grand Palais. Distance covered by foot: 1.5 km Price: between 15€ and 20€ depending on the Grand Palais exhibitions

Step 6: Explore The Seine river banks, Place de la Concorde, and the Tuileries Garden

Once you have crossed the bridge, turn right to follow the quays of the river Seine. This short walk along the banks will allow you to enjoy the quiet life of the French River in a calm environment and protected from road traffic.

This little walk under beautiful chestnut trees is called “ Promenade du Cours de la Reine “.

Created under the command of Queen Mary de Medici during the 17th century, you can admire a number of equestrian statues including the one that honors Simon Bolivar, the liberator of South America.

Continue your walk until the end of the alley to reach the Place de la Concorde which is the largest square in Paris with more than 8 hectares! Each side of the square is decorated with a statue representing the eight most important cities of France .

It is surrounded by two huge fountains and has in its center the famous Obelisk of Luxor imported from Egypt and over 3,300 years old! Can you imagine that! More than 20 meters high, it was offered to France by Egypt in 1831.

Go for a walk around the Obelisk and look at your feet! On the ground, you’ll see engraved Roman numerals arranged in a very precise way.

The shadow created by the obelisk can be used to give the time of the day making this place the largest sundial in the world!

The square is full of historical significance, formerly known as the revolution square . It is at this place that many people were beheaded during the French revolution, including King Louis XVI himself.

The square is surrounded by architectural splendor. To the north, you will find the very unique Madeleine Chruch .

On the opposite side to the south of the square, you can admire (right after the bridge) the Palais Bourbon , an 18th-century building that has a major role in French politics as this is where members of parliament gather.

From here, continue your journey East to the fabulous Jardin des Tuileries . The Tuileries Garden is one of the most beautiful Parisian gardens and also the oldest of all.

What was originally an Italian garden commissioned by Catherine de Médicis is today a place of relaxation and exoticism, but also a place of culture.

You will find several museums such as Le musée de l’Orangerie dedicated to modern art, le Jeu de Paume for contemporary art, and, a little further on, the Louvre Museum .

Arranged in a French-style garden and classified as a UNESCO Site, it is a real pleasure to stroll along its wide alleys under the shade of tall trees.

Like all good French gardens, the symmetry, the vanishing lines, and the long perspectives make this place very aesthetic.

For those who are hungry, read the following section for some restaurant suggestions. For others, continue to walk through the garden from west to east until you reach the small but adorable Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel .

The triumphal arch, much smaller than the one in the Champs Elysée might seem to have fallen from the sky as it sits in the middle of nowhere.

Beyond its delicate character due to the pink marble and precious materials that compose its decoration, this unique location contributes to its charm. The last vestiges of the Palais des Tuileries now disappeared, it offers a gateway to our next stop, the Louvre Museum!

Related post: Romantic things to do in Paris

Step 7: Enjoy a meal on a Lunch Break

If you have followed this Paris in a day itinerary since the beginning, it should be past noon now and you’re probably starting to feel hungry.

There are so many good restaurants and bars in Paris that it can be difficult to make a choice! I have selected two of them for you in the vicinity of the Jardin des Tuileries .

The Happy Cafe (214 Rue de Rivoli)

This small creperie offers delicious homemade products and organic crepes to die for! It does not provide seating but rather take-away meals only.

It’s not a big problem since it is only a stone’s throw away from the Tuileries garden. So I recommend you order a good crepe and have a seat in the garden!

The place is appreciated by the locals since it’s cheap, very practical, the staff is very friendly and the prices are attractive for such a touristy place.

Le restaurant de la Cordonnerie (20 rue Saint Roch)

If you wish to have lunch in a more traditional restaurant, this is the place for you. La Cordonnerie is one of the capital’s most popular restaurants thanks to its French charm.

The typical French and traditional dishes served there are hearty and delicious. The prices are favorable too and the owners, Yvette and Claude, are adorable!

Time spent on this visit: 30/40 Minutes. Distance covered by foot: 2km Price: Free, between 20 € and 40€ for lunch.

Step 8: Visit The Louvre Museum

If you’re looking for what to do in Paris for one day, then visiting the Louvre Museum is one of them. It is not only the largest museum in France but also one of the most famous landmarks in Europe .

After passing through the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, standing proudly in front of you are the famous glass Pyramids, inaugurated in 1989 which also serve as the main entrance to the Museum.

Originally built to be used as a fortress in the 12th century before becoming a Royal residence for the King and eventually abandoned, the Louvre Museum is today the largest art museum in Europe and on the planet, the most visited in the world, and probably one of the most beautiful!

It houses more than 35,000 works of art, paintings, and sculptures, including the world-famous Mona Lisa by Da Vinci and the Venus de Milo .

As you can guess, the museum is big, very big! Because of its vastness and richness, it is very easy to get lost and forget about time.

As you only have a day in Paris, I advise you not to take a ticket to visit it. It will be absolutely impossible for you to see everything and even if you make yourself a tailor-made route, it will be more like a race against the clock than a pleasant visit.

But don’t worry, because you’re still going to get a kick out of it. You are standing in the Napoleon courtyard where the immense glass pyramid stands.

It is made of 800 pieces of diamond-shaped glass weighing more than 95 tons, its modernity and audacity contrast with the classicism of the surroundings.

Framed by four reflecting pools, it is perfectly aligned with the arches of the buildings facing it.

Walk around, and have fun spotting perspective games from the “passages”, these corridors and arch threads that provide a perfect frame for your photos.

Walk along the pyramid and the Napoleon courtyard to enjoy the beauty of the area and then continue eastwards towards the smaller but equally interesting “Cour carré”. The enclosed courtyard is filled with amazing detail and great historical details.

From here you can admire the Lescot wing, the oldest remaining facade of the Louvre.

Continue to progress eastward to leave the museum premises through Rue de l’Amiral de Coligny , then take a right towards the quayside to reach the next stop!

Psst… If visiting the Louvre museum has been on your Paris bucket list forever and you can’t miss it even if you just have one day in Paris, then you can still visit it but since it is very big, the shortest time you can spend there is 2 hours and you’d have seen just the bare minimum.

You can choose to spend the entire afternoon there and end your 1 day in Paris itinerary there. The best way to make the most of your visit is to purchase this skip-the-line ticket that comes with an audio guide to avoid wasting time in queues.

Alternatively, you can book this 2-3 hours Louvre guided tour that will show you the highlights of the museum so that you don’t miss out on the famous objects.

Time spent on this visit: 20/30 minutes if you don’t enter the museum Distance covered by foot: 1km Price: Free of charge if you don’t visit the museum

If you choose not to visit the Louvre Museum, then continue with this Paris in a day itinerary.

But if you visit the Louvre, by the time you leave, it’s likely to be the end of the day, so you can skip to the last section of this Paris 1 day itinerary and end your day with a Seine cruise.

Step 9: Explore The Île de la Cité and Notre Dame Cathedral

Once you leave the Louvre Palace, walk along the quays for a few hundred meters and take right to the Pont Neuf .

Literally translated as “New Bridge” in English! One could not find a more misleading name because it is, in fact, the oldest bridge in Paris!

Far from just being a farce, it was named so because it was indeed the very first stone bridge in the city to ever have been built.

The structure consists of two bridges on piers separated by the equestrian statue of Henry IV and the molded cornices rest on consoles decorated with mascarons.

Once you have crossed the bridge, you’ll now be on the Ile de la Cité . Formerly called Lutèce, the Île de la Cité is the oldest district in Paris and one of only two islands in the French capital.

For centuries, this island was the neuralgic center of Paris due to its essential geographical position. Many monuments, squares, and streets have preserved traces of this glorious past.

Head to the courthouse. Formerly known as the Palais de la Cité , the courthouse was a residence of the Kings of France just like many other monuments in Paris.

Walk along the Conciergerie which was a major detention center during the French Revolution and home of the revolutionary court, then follow the Quai de l’Horloge.

Here, you will encounter many towers; th e Bonbec Tower , Caesar’s Tower , the Silver Tower , and Clock Tower .

The last one is by far the most interesting since it is the oldest public clock in Paris! Entirely restored in 2012, it was commissioned by King Charles V in 1370.

Continue along the quayside with the Seine on your left then turn onto Rue d’Arcole, walk down it from end to end, and finally reach the highlight of the visit, the courtyard of the fabulous Notre Dame Cathedral !

Europe’s most visited monument with 20 million visitors, the construction of this immense Gothic cathedral lasted more than two centuries.

Its towers, 69 meters high, and its arrow pointing at 96, made the cathedral the highest monument in Paris until the appearance of the Eiffel Tower.

But before looking up to the sky, look down at the ground, on the square in front of the cathedral lies the “ Point zéro des routes de France “.

This ground-inlaid rosette represents kilometer point 0 of all roads leaving the capital, which is used as a reference for calculating distances to other cities in France .

Sadly, there is some bad news! Since the terrible fire of April 2019 that devastated the historic roof, the cathedral and its surroundings have been completely closed off to visitors!

It is only from a distance that you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the building as it recovers. However, it remains an essential visit to the city’s island even if even you’re just in Paris for a day.

Jump over the Seine ( well, use one of the 4 bridges that connect the island to the left bank) to reach our next stop.

Time spent on this visit: 1 hour. Distance covered by foot: 1.5 km Price: Free of charge

  Related post:  Mistakes to avoid while traveling in Paris

Step 10: Explore The Latin Quarter

You are currently back on the left bank you left after visiting the Eiffel Tower. You are now in the Latin Quarter straddling the 5th and 6th arrondissements.

Very appreciated by its inhabitants and the intellectual heart of the city, Parisians, students, and tourists cross paths all year round in the many cute Parisian cafés and restaurants of the district, in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

The district is teeming with schools and universities of all kinds, which is why it finds its name as a Latin district, referring to the language used by teachers in the past.

Before entering the heart of the district, walk along the quays of Seine (Quai de la Tournelle) because, in my opinion, this is where you will get the most beautiful view of the cathedral, with the Seine and the historic bridges in the forefront.

As everywhere in Paris, many monuments dot this district, including the Cluny Museum with its ancient thermal baths and the stunning Pantheon .

The Cluny Museum, located in the hotel of the same name, is dedicated to the Middle Ages.

Rare witness to the medieval period in Paris, it now houses a rich collection of stained glass windows, casts, and tapestries as well as the famous “Lady with the Unicorn”.

In the basement of the museum are the thermal baths of Lutetia, vestiges of the Roman Empire dating from the 1st and 2nd centuries!

I recommend the visit because it is done quite quickly and waiting times are usually pretty short. To avoid any queues, remember to book your tickets online on the museum’s official website .

Once you have completed your visit to the museum, continue your ascent of the Mont Sainte-Geneviève (it is a bit exaggerated since it is actually just a small hill that rises 23m above sea level and not a mountain) to the magnificent Pantheon .

The ancient church has been transformed into a monumental mausoleum protecting the remains of the greatest figures in the history of France.

Under its dome are some of the great names in literature, art, politics, and science that have made the country’s history such as Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Pierre, Marie Curie, and more.

The pantheon also houses the “ Foucault pendulum “, a scientific experiment conducted in 1851 by its inventor of the same name which demonstrated the rotation of the earth in space.

Step 11: Grab something to eat (Optional)

Snack time shouldn’t be far now, and that’s good because the Latin Quarter is full of places to eat a bite, I’ve selected two of them for you.

The Tea caddy (14 rue Saint Julien le Pauvre)

With its distinguished and British atmosphere in a wooded and chic setting, it is the oldest tea room in Paris!

You can enjoy many teas from all over the world as well as many delicious English pastries. The prices are correct there without being cheap either.

A. Lacroix Patissier (11 Quai de Montebello)

Don’t miss this cozy tea room that serves hot drinks and pastries with a neat presentation.

Have a look at the famous French macarons ; they are delicious! Accompany your pastry with a wonderful roasted coffee. The address is very popular and the prices are slightly high.

There is so much to see in the Latin Quarter since it’s probably one of the most authentic Parisian districts! To reach the next stop, find any metro station on line 10, I recommend the station Cluny – La Sorbonne because it is beautifully decorated.

Take the direction towards Boulogne Pont de Saint-Cloud then switch to the station Sèvres-Babylone to Front Populaire on line 12 and get off at Pigalle !

Time spent on this visit:: 2 hours. Distance covered by foot: 2km Price: between 5 and 9€ for the museum

Step 12: Enjoy the Charms of Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur

If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, you know I’ve talked about Montmartre a lot in my previous articles like in the hidden gems in Paris post or in the best places to visit in Paris post.

The Montmartre district holds a special place in my heart but also in the hearts of many tourists and locals alike!

There are so many hidden treasures in this neighborhood that it deserves an article of its own and a whole day just to discover them! But by following this one day in Paris itinerary, I think you will get a good glimpse of it.

Your visit to the district should begin at the Pigalle metro station, follow the sulfurous boulevard de Clichy to the west until you reach the famous Moulin Rouge , this cabaret alone sums up the spirit of the district.

Café-concert and dancing, it now presents a magazine where the French-cancan performs in all its glory. The Moulin Rouge is particularly fascinating to Parisians and tourists alike. Bold and unique, it is ideal to start a visit to the neighborhood.

Take rue Lepic to the north, go past the “ wall of I love you ” until you reach Place Emile Goudeau , from where you can visit the old art studio used by famous painters such as Braque or Picasso.

Continue north by the pretty stairs of Rue de la Mire to reach Rue Lepic again and the “Moulin d’la Galette” made famous by Renoir, which is today the last vestige of the 30 mills that once overlooked Montmartre.

Go around via Avenue Junot where old Roman ruins are still visible to reach the vineyards of Montmartre ; the only vineyard in Paris where the famous Vin de Montmartre is made! Be sure to continue until you see the famous Pink house, La Maison Rose . The whole area is perfectly picturesque and ideal for a stroll.

Continue your journey to Place du Tertre , the most famous square in Montmartre where street artists perform and small bistros and cafés are many and varied, as well as superb art galleries.

Explore the surroundings and especially the beautiful street of Le Calvaire which looks like it comes straight out of a classic painting!

The visit obviously ends with the unmissable Basilica of the Sacred Heart . This magnificent basilica, built to honor the divine protection of the capital, is erected on Montmartre hill and overlooks the city.

Construction began in 1875 and was completed in 1912. It quickly became one of the most important places of worship in Paris and an unmissable place of pilgrimage.

Built in white stone (from the same quarry as the stones of the Alexandre III bridge), they have the characteristic of being self-cleaning in rainy weather! This explains why the sacred heart always radiates in white.

Facing the parvis, you’ll have this impregnable feeling of having Paris at your feet! Once in the basilica, you’ll be welcomed by the largest mosaic in France.

If you still have some energy, feel free to climb the 300 steps that separate you from the dome to experience an even more impressive view of the capital!

Time to get some rest! You can enjoy the relaxing and soothing atmosphere of the place and appreciate the beautiful sunset.

Due to its elevated position, the Sacred Heart is perhaps the most ideal place to contemplate the sunset over the city. Sit on the steps of the stairs in front of the basilica and feast your eyes.

It’s a very popular place for sundowners, so you surely won’t be alone since the atmosphere is friendly and with a little luck, some musicians might join the party!

Time spent on this visit: 2 hours on foot + 25 min by metro. Distance covered by foot: 3km Price: 6€ to climb the Sacré-Coeur

Step 13: Enjoy Dinner in Paris (Optional)

After such a busy day in Paris, there is nothing better than celebrating with a great meal! There is no need to travel too far because the district of Montmartre is full of good restaurants. Here are some of them.

Where To Have Dinner And Go Out?

Restaurant miroir (94 rue des martyrs) (update: it is now permanently closed).

Typical Parisian bistro, the setting is very friendly and the products are fresh. The menu is regularly updated, which is always a good sign! Cozy restaurant, with friendly service, and budget-friendly meals for high quality on the plate.

Restaurant Le Poulbot (3 rue Poulbot)

At this restaurant, you can taste a succulent and authentic cuisine in a very Parisian atmosphere. It offers a wide selection of traditional beers and a carefully selected wine list.

And if you’re not completely exhausted yet (I don’t know how you do it after such a long day!), here are some nice places to party:

Le Bar à Bulles (90 Boulevard de Clichy)

This bar/garden is perched on the roof of the Moulin Rouge! Located on the first floor of the club “La Machine du Moulin Rouge”, this bar is a little gem. The atmosphere is relaxed and its bohemian and cozy decoration is very agreeable.

Marlusse and Lapin (14 rue Germain Pilon)

This bar has an improbable name and is a true UFO. The atmosphere created by its owners is totally out of control! Everything is very festive, especially at nightfall.

The cocktails are delicious and, rare things for the area, the prices are reasonable! This bar will not suit everyone but at least has the strength to be authentic and unique!

Step 14: Cruise on the Seine

Instead of just sitting in one of the Parisian restaurants for dinner, you can hit 2 birds with one stone. Enjoy dinner while cruising on the Seine.

There is no better way to wind up your one day in Paris than cruising on the Seine. You’ll get to see Paris at night while taking in the views of the landmarks while they’re all lit up in the thick of the night.

However, there are so many seine cruises that it can be hard to choose which one to go for but as someone who has taken a number of them, I can confidently  recommend this Seine river night cruise .

It comes with a 3- 3-course dinner, so you don’t have to worry about looking for dinner after the cruise.

Pro tip*  It gets really cold, so don’t forget to pack a jacket or a fleece to keep you warm.

If You’d Rather Not Plan Anything

If you want to see Paris in a day but don’t want to go through all the hustles of planning your day well to be able to see as much as possible, you can opt for guided tours.

The best part about guided tours is that everything is already planned for you from the beginning to the end. All you have to do is to show up. If that’s you, then these are tours I recommend plus a summary of how your day should be.

Step 1. Watch a Sunrise at the Trocadero

Step 2. Get an up-close look at the Eiffel Tower from Champs De Mars

Step 3. Climb the Arc De Triomphe. Buy this skip-the-line ticket in advance.

Step 4. Go on a guided walking tour of the Latin Quarter . This semi-private guided walking tour will take you through the Latin Quarter, Ile de la Cite the Notre Dame area, Pantheon, and the Luxembourg Gardens. Lasting 2.5 hours, you’ll see a great deal of Paris from this tour.

Step 5: Take a lunch break.

Step 6. Go on another walking tour of the major Parisian landmarks . Unlike the previous one, this guided walking tour takes you through all the major landmarks of Paris. From the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais, and the Louvre Museum to Pont Alexandre III, you’ll get to see all the monuments that make Paris what it is.

Step 7. Take a walking tour of Montmartre . Even if you’re in Paris for a day, you can’t afford to miss the beautiful neighborhood of Montmartre. I recommend taking this Montmartre guided tour to take you through all the major attractions in Montmartre including the Sacre Couer.

Step 7: Go on a Seine Cruise . By the time the previous tour ends, it will probably be night and there is no better way to wind down than on a seine cruise. I recommend going on this Seine cruise as it comes with a 3-course dinner so you won’t have to worry about booking a restaurant for dinner later.

Step 8: (Optional): Go on a guided night bike tour: If you’re still not worn out by all the walking, then you can sign up for this night bike riding tour to get a glimpse of Paris during the night when all the major landmarks are lit up.

Paris in 1 day itinerary Summary

We have to agree, that was quite a lot to take in! If all that was overwhelming, here is a summary of things to do in Paris in a day.

• Enjoy a Sunrise at the Trocadero
• Get an up-close look at the Eiffel Tower from Champs De Mars
• Climb the Arc De Triomphe
• Stroll the Champs Elysées
• Visit the Grand Palais, Alexander III Bridge, and the Hotel Des Invalides
• Explore the Seine River banks, Place De La Concorde, and the Tuileries Garden
• Enjoy a meal on a Lunch Break
• Visit the Louvre Museum
• Explore the Île De La Cité and Notre Dame Cathedral
• Explore the Latin Quarter
• Grab something to Eat
• Enjoy the charms of Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur
• Enjoy dinner in Paris
• Cruise on the Seine

FAQs About Seeing Paris in 24 Hours

Is 1 day enough for Paris?

The simple answer is that 1 day is not enough for Paris but if that’s the only time you have, there is nothing wrong with trying to use it to see as much as possible.

What to do if you have a day in Paris?

Since there is so much to see and do in Paris, some of the places not to miss when you have just a day in Paris include; the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre Museum , the Arc de Triomphe , Notre Dame , Sacre Coeur , and ofcourse the Seine river . If you follow my one day in Paris itinerary and are ready to walk, you’ll see a great deal of Paris.

Can you walk across Paris in a day?

Yes! Paris is a very walkable city and most of the attractions listed in my Paris in a day itinerary are not far from each other so you can easily walk. Just wear comfortable walking shoes and you’ll be set.

Final Thoughts On One day in Paris Itinerary

There you go! With this Paris one day itinerary, your 1 day in Paris will be filled up and you’ll get a glimpse of Paris without missing any important landmarks!

However, if you don’t want to organize and prepare everything yourself, you can also join a private sightseeing walking Tour and let yourself be guided by the wise advice of a tour guide!

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Big mistakes to avoid in Paris
• Things to Pack for Paris
• Best Eiffel tower photo spots in Paris
• Where to stay in Paris
• Best hotels in Paris with an Eiffel Tower view

Was this post on the best way to see Paris in a day helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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Paris   Travel Guide

Courtesy of James Farley | Getty Images

1-day Itinerary in Paris

• 1-Day Itinerary
• All Things To Do
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) free

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning "Sacred Heart") looks more like a white castle than a basilica. Towering over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre (once a hangout for Paris' bohemian crowd), this Roman-Byzantine, 19th-century masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. As blanched as it may appear on the outside, the basilica's interior is a sight worth beholding: The ceilings glitter with France's largest mosaic, which depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc.

You'll also likely be left in awe with the panoramic views found from atop the Sacré-Coeur's outdoor staircase. But for an even better photo-op, climb all 300 steps to the top of the dome. The dome is accessible to visitors every day from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mass is held multiple times a day every day.

Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris

A masterpiece of architectural opulence, the Opéra Garnier – also known as the Palais Garnier – still exudes the opulence it radiated in the late 1800s. This palpable sense of intrigue and mystery that permeates the opera is due in part to its awe-inspiring Old-World interiors as well as Gaston Leroux, the author of "Phantom of the Opera," for which the Garnier served as his inspiration. Leroux claimed the phantom was indeed real, successfully incorporating real life opera occurrences (such as the chandelier falling and killing a bystander) into his fiction. The Garnier's lack of a robust historical record, as well as Leroux's writing talents, have left many wondering if there really was a dweller that lurked beneath the opera. Staff have claimed otherwise, but say with the opera's very real underground "lake" (water tank), it's easy to see how the story could be so convincing. Without Napoleon III, who was responsible for commissioning the opera, Leroux's tale may never have never come to fruition.

The best way to fully experience the Palais Garnier is by purchasing a ballet or opera ticket. Remember to book your tickets several months in advance, as performances are highly coveted. If you won't be in town for a performance or aren't up for forking over the oftentimes high price of a performance, you can explore the building's magnificent interiors on your own.

Champs-Élysées Champs-Élysées free

Musician Joe Dassin once sang "Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Élysées," which translates to "There's everything you could want along the Champs-Élysées." And he's right. Paris' most famous boulevard – stretching more than a mile from the glittering obelisk at Place de la Concorde to the foot of the Arc de Triomphe – is a shopper's mecca. Along its wide, tree-lined sidewalks, you'll find such luxury stores as Louis Vuitton and Chanel rubbing elbows with less-pricey establishments like Adidas and Zara.

While the Champs-Élysées is no doubt a shopping paradise, recent travelers noticed the price tags at most stores can be pretty high. And the more affordable options are constantly swamped with people. The Champs-Élysées itself is no different. Because this is such a famous street in Paris, expect there to be crowds galore, both during the day and the nighttime. Still, many travelers enjoyed taking in the Champs-Élysées' bustling atmosphere and observing both locals and tourists come and go. Some recent visitors said a trip to the Champs-Élysées is not complete without a stop at Ladurée, the city's famous macaron shop.

Arc de Triomphe Arc de Triomphe

Situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées , the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon to honor the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. The arch, which is the largest of its kind in the world, is adorned with several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean's Empire, as well as generals who fought in them. Travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The flame that was lit when the soldier was laid to rest has not extinguished since it was initially lit in the 1920s, and is rekindled every night at 6:30 p.m. by a member of the armed services.

Aside from admiring the arch, visitors can climb to the top and take in the Parisian panorama. Most visitors are wowed by the immense size of the structure and recommend ascending to the top for the spectacular Paris views. Visitors caution that you'll have to wait in line to get to the top and the climb, which is made up of hundreds of stairs, can be a serious workout. Others strongly cautioned against trying to cross the roundabout to get to the Arc. Instead, take the underground tunnel near the metro that leads directly to the base of the structure.

Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For the best photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower, head to Place du Trocadéro. (Just expect to contend with some crowds!) – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Designed and constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World's Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure, but it has skirted demolition twice. The first time, in 1909, the tower was kept around because of its potential as a transmission tower (an antenna was installed atop the tower). Gustav Eiffel, chief architect of the Eiffel Tower, had a variety of scientific experiments tested on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan. One of these included a wireless transmissions test, which the tower passed with flying colors. During World War I, the Eiffel Tower's transmission capabilities enabled it to intercept communications from enemies as well as relay intel to troops on the ground. The second time the Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed was during the German occupation of France during World War II. Hitler planned to get rid of the tower, but never ended up going through with his plan.

Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) free

Note that the cathedral sustained significant damage as a result of a fire on April 15, 2019. Its wooden roof and spire collapsed during the fire. The interior of the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. It is set to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit that debuted in March 2023. It's located in an underground facility in front of the cathedral, the free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site, including the expertise of the workers, as well as some remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral. There are also free, volunteer-led informational tours around the outside of the cathedral select days of the week. Consult this online calendar to see when English tours are offered.

Like the Eiffel Tower , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is seen as a Parisian icon. Located along the picturesque River Seine , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and is often regarded as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral started in the late 12th century and final touches weren't made until nearly 200 years later. Once you get an eyeful of the cathedral yourself, you'll start to understand why it took so long.

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Ultimate One Day in Paris Itinerary – How to See Paris in a Day

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 9, 2024

Paris has always been one of our favorite cities in the world. From the first time we visited in 1999 to our most recent visit, Paris holds a special place in our hearts. For most people, just the thought of this enchanting destination makes their heart race. The mere mention of its name conjures up images of romantic walks along the Seine, the glittering Eiffel Tower, and the exquisite taste of a warm croissant.

But what if you only have one day to spend in the City of Lights? Don’t fret, because we’ve got you covered! In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through an unforgettable “one day in Paris itinerary” filled with elegance, eloquence, and plenty of those significant Paris attractions. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Notre Dame to the artistic treasures of the Louvre, we’ve meticulously crafted this itinerary to give you a taste of the best that Paris has to offer, all within a single, unforgettable day.

Table of Contents

How To Have The Perfect One Day in Paris

Is it really possible to experience the magic of Paris in just one day? Absolutely! We know because did this exact Paris itinerary on our last visit. With some planning and a little bit of determination, you can make the most of your precious time in the French capital. Although a whirlwind trip, you can expect a rough cost of around 215 Euro per person for your one-day adventure.

As you start your Parisian adventure, remember to include must-see attractions like Notre Dame, The Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre. Always remember that good planning is the key to making the most of your day in Paris. Now, let’s start with our Paris one-day itinerary and prepare to fall in love with this captivating city. If you do have more time in Paris, make sure to check out our comprehensive 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit .

Planning Your One Day in Paris Itinerary

Let’s face it, it would take more than a day to see all the sights Paris offers. With numerous attractions, planning your one-day in Paris itinerary can feel overwhelming. Here, we’ll share some useful tips for optimizing your time in the city and tailoring your itinerary to your preferences. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply want to soak in the city’s atmosphere, we’ve got something for everyone.

From using efficient transportation like the metro and RER trains to booking skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your day in Paris. And don’t forget about the importance of strategic planning.

We have prioritized must-see sights when we laid out this itinerary. While doing so, we made sure to include some lesser-known gems in Paris too. By following these tips, you’ll be able to maximize your time in Paris and create lasting memories.

Essential Tips for Maximizing Your Time

How do you optimize your time in Paris? It’s straightforward: start your day early, utilize public transportation, and secure those skip-the-line tickets. By getting up and going early, you’ll have more time to take in the amazing Parisian cafes, shops, and sights, and you might even be able to fit in one more attraction or museum.

Make your travel around the city a breeze by utilizing the Paris Visit Travel Pass . This pass offers unlimited travel within designated zones, allowing you to explore the city and visit multiple attractions without having to buy individual tickets for each journey. And when it comes to visiting popular attractions, save time and avoid long queues by booking skip-the-line tickets in advance. Trust us, your future self will thank you!

Customizing Your Itinerary

Tailoring the itinerary to your preferences is one of the main factors for a successful one-day Paris trip. Are you a fan of art? Make sure to include a visit to the Louvre, or consider exploring the charming streets of the Latin Quarter. History buff? Don’t miss the French Revolution landmarks or The Conciergerie on Île de la Cité.

For those who want to experience the true Parisian atmosphere, consider adding a leisurely stroll along the Seine River or a visit to the picturesque Montmartre neighborhood to your itinerary. Whatever your interests, with a bit of planning and flexibility, you can create a personalized Parisian experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Morning: Île de la Cité and the Seine River

Start your day at Île de la Cité, the historical center of Paris, and appreciate the beauty of the Seine River. Your morning will be filled with visits to iconic landmarks like Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Conciergerie.

Subsequently, unwind and rejuvenate in the scenic Luxembourg Gardens before having a delightful lunch in the enchanting Saint Germain neighborhood.

Dawn at Notre Dame

No visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral. Even though it suffered a devastating fire in 2019, the cathedral continues to stand as a shining symbol of Paris’ resilience and is scheduled to reopen in 2024. It’s a must-see attraction on your one-day Paris itinerary.

Take a moment to admire the intricate architecture and imagine the rich history that unfolded within its walls. And while you can’t currently step inside due to ongoing restoration work, the exterior alone is worth the visit.

Good news for those planning future trips – the Notre Dame Cathedral is scheduled to reopen to the public on December 8, 2024 . This date, chosen with great symbolic significance, aligns with the city’s goal to restore the cathedral in time for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. So, if you’re planning your visit around that time, you’ll have the privilege of stepping inside this iconic monument, witnessing its grandeur first-hand, and becoming a part of its rich history.

The Stained Glass Splendor of Sainte-Chapelle

Next up on our whirlwind tour of Paris, we’re heading to the absolutely jaw-dropping Sainte-Chapelle. This place is like stepping into a fairytale; I kid you not. It’s a Gothic architectural gem that’s positively brimming with some of the most stunning stained glass windows you’ve ever seen. Honestly, you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a kaleidoscope.

Now, a little insider tip for you – try to get there early in the morning, like ten to fifteen minutes before they throw open the doors. Why, you ask? Well, it’s simple – you’ll beat the crowds and have the place more or less to yourself. Trust me, there’s nothing like having the time and space to fully soak in the beauty of this magnificent chapel without being jostled by other tourists. It’s a serene and utterly magical experience you won’t want to miss. We do suggest you book your tickets in advance so you can make the best use of your time.

Conciergerie: A Glimpse into French History

Extend your morning with a jaunt over to the Conciergerie, a piece of living history that’s a must-see. Now, this place isn’t just any old landmark. It’s got a story that’s as fascinating as its architecture. It started out as a royal palace and then turned into a prison during the French Revolution. Talk about a career change, right?

While you’re there, you’ll uncover the tales of the folks who were held captive within its walls. One of the big names? Marie Antoinette. Just imagine walking the same halls as the infamous queen. It’s like stepping back in time.

The building is a mix of medieval, Gothic, and French architectural styles, making it a real feast for the eyes. Every corner you turn, every stone you touch, it’s all part of the rich tapestry of French history. So take your time, soak it all in, and let the stories of the Conciergerie whisk you away on an unforgettable journey. Book your tickets in advance here.

Luxuriate in Luxembourg Gardens

After soaking in the rich history of Île de la Cité, it’s time to switch gears and head over to the Luxembourg Gardens. Just a 15-minute walk across the Pont Saint-Michel brings you to this tranquil oasis right smack in the middle of Paris, making the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

Tip: If you are a book lover, you can take a 5-minute detour and visit the Shakespeare and Company Book Store on the Left Bank. It has a wonderful history and you can grab a quick coffee at the cafe next door, or at Odette around the corner, before continuing your journey.

You know, one of our favorite things to do here is to take a leisurely stroll. I mean, with all the beautifully manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and majestic trees, it’s like stepping into a living postcard. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a puppet show at the Théâtre des Marionnettes – it’s a hit with the kids and the young at heart.

But you know what? Sometimes, there’s nothing better than spreading out a blanket and having a picnic right there on the grass. Just imagine, munching on some cheese and baguette, sipping a coffee, and watching the world go by – it’s pure bliss. It’s one of our favorite things to do in Paris.

And then, of course, there are the fountains. Oh, the fountains! They’re the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and maybe even do a bit of people-watching. You’ll see locals reading, artists sketching, and tourists like us soaking up the atmosphere. It’s truly a slice of Parisian life. Luxembourg Gardens are a treasured gem in the heart of the city, and they’re definitely worth a visit on your one day in Paris.

Lunch At a Cafe in Saint Germain

As your morning escapades draw to a close, it’s time to reward yourself with a scrumptious lunch at one of the many charming cafes nestled in the heart of Saint Germain. This quintessential Parisian neighborhood is brimming with culinary delights that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

One of my personal favorites is Café de Flore , an iconic spot known for its superb French cuisine. Here, you can indulge in a classic Croque Monsieur or a delectable Quiche Lorraine, all while soaking in the café’s timeless charm. Trust me, the ambiance alone is worth the visit.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more contemporary, I’d recommend giving Semilla a try. This modern bistro offers an array of innovative dishes that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. The duck breast with honey and lavender is a real treat, and their wine selection is second to none.

With your appetite satisfied and your energy restored, you’ll be ready to embark on an afternoon filled with art, iconic landmarks, and the undeniable allure of Paris during your day trip.

Artistic Afternoon: Art And Icons

Your afternoon in Paris is set aside for art and notable landmarks. Begin with a visit to the world-renowned Louvre Museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Next, take in the stunning views from Trocadéro Gardens before ascending the Eiffel Tower for an unforgettable experience. As the sun begins to set, prepare to be captivated by the twinkling lights of the City of Love.

It took us a couple of visits to make it to make it to the Louvre, but I suggest you don’t wait. Even if you are not an art lover, this place will leave you spellbound. It’s the world’s largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. You can’t visit Paris and not step foot into this grand institution. It’s like going to Rome and not seeing the Colosseum, or visiting New York and not seeing the Statue of Liberty.

Of course, this isn’t just any museum. It’s a treasure trove of thousands of works of art, each telling a story that spans centuries and civilizations. You’ll come face-to-face with the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa, stand in awe of the majestic Venus de Milo, and lose yourself in countless other masterpieces.

But here’s a little tip for you – to save time make sure to get a skip-the-line ticket. The lines can get outrageously long, and you don’t want to waste your precious time in Paris standing in a queue.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to plan your route. The Louvre is massive, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. So, decide beforehand which works you absolutely must see.

Quick Tip: Remember, the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. We learned this the hard way on our third trip to Paris , so make sure you plan accordingly. The Louvre, with its vast collection and stunning architecture, is more than just a museum. It’s an experience, an adventure into the annals of art and civilization. And I promise you, it will be one of the highlights of your day in Paris.

Trocadéro Gardens

After your art-filled adventure at the Louvre, your next stop is the Trocadéro Gardens. It is about a 50-minute stroll through some of the most beautiful scenes in Paris. As you exit the Louvre, head straight through the Jardins de Tuileries and past the Place De la Concorde before continuing along the Right Bank of the Seine and arriving at Trocadéro Gardens.

I remember the first time we set foot in these gardens, the stunning view of the Eiffel Tower simply blew us away. It really is one of the best vantage points in the city. The gardens themselves are a slice of tranquility in the heart of the city making it a perfect place to relax, catch your breath, and soak in the awe-inspiring sight of the iconic Eiffel Tower standing tall against the Parisian skyline.

As you wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, you’ll come across charming fountains that add to the serene atmosphere. I recall spending a good chunk of time just sitting by one of these fountains, watching the water dance in the sunlight, with the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop – it was nothing short of magical.

And let’s not forget about the photo opportunities. With the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop, every photo you take here is bound to be postcard-worthy. So, make sure you have your camera ready to capture those picture-perfect moments.

Iconic Views: Ascend the Eiffel Tower

If you’re in Paris and don’t visit the Eiffel Tower, did you even really go to Paris? I mean, this towering beauty is the city’s most iconic landmark. It’s the postcard image of Paris that we all have in our minds. So, trust me when I say you just can’t miss it!

The three different levels of the Eiffel Tower each offer a unique view of the city. It’s a beautiful sight looking over the rooftops, the winding Seine, and the bustling streets. It’s like you’re seeing Paris through a whole new lens. It’s this bird’s eye view that lets you truly appreciate the city’s beauty, its charm, and its very essence.

And here’s a little tip from someone who’s been there and done that: consider booking a timed-entry ticket in advance . It’s a lifesaver. You’ll avoid the long queues and just waltz right in like you own the place. Plus, it secures your spot, so you don’t have to worry about missing out.

Evening Elegance: Seine River Cruise

As the day gradually gives way to the evening, it’s time for a classy, unforgettable Seine River cruise. It is something out of a storybook; you’re gliding smoothly along the serene waters, the glittering lights of the city reflecting off the surface, creating a magical, almost surreal atmosphere.

You’re taking in the stunning, illuminated landmarks – the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower – each one more breathtaking than the last. Plus, the city at night is a sight to behold, and seeing it from the river is an experience that’s nothing short of extraordinary.

There are a variety of cruise options available, so you can choose the perfect experience that suits your mood and budget. If you’re looking for a simple, laid-back sightseeing cruise, you’ve got it. But if you want to splurge a little, how about a luxurious dinner cruise complete with fine dining?

Whichever one you choose, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your day in Paris, a city that’s as enchanting as it is unforgettable.

Twilight at Place de la Concorde and Champs-Élysées

As night starts to take hold, retrace your steps back to the Place de la Concorde, the largest public square in Paris. It is impressive especially at twilight when the city lights start to sparkle. Trust me, this is where you want to be when the city transitions from day to night. You can practically feel the energy of Parisian life pulsating around you.

From the square, take a stroll along the world-famous Champs-Élysées, the runway of Paris, flaunting the city’s style and elegance. The avenue is lined with shops that could easily burn a hole in your pocket, but hey, you’re in Paris! Whether you’re window shopping or going on a splurge, it’s all part of the experience.

It’s not all about shopping on the Champs-Élysées. It is also home to some of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. So, keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready, you never know what you’ll stumble upon next.

As your day in Paris winds down, make your way to the nearby Champ de Mars. It’s one of my favorite spots in the city. There’s something incredibly peaceful about sitting in the park, watching the world go by, and just taking it all in. It’s the perfect ending to your one day in Paris.

Paris by Night: The Illuminated Arc de Triomphe

Observe the lit-up Arc de Triomphe at night, a genuinely enchanting sight that will leave you breathless. This iconic monument, which celebrates and pays tribute to those who fought and passed away for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, is an unforgettable experience lit up against the night sky.

Please take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the arch and pay respects to the Unknown Soldier.

Culinary Conclusion: Dinner and Optional Cabaret

If you didn’t opt for a dinner cruise on the Seine , it’s time to indulge in some fine dining and trust me, Paris knows how to do food. From traditional French cuisine to inventive fusion dishes, this city is a foodie’s dream come true.

My personal favorite is ‘ Le Comptoir du Relais ‘. This charming bistro in the Saint-Germain neighborhood is always buzzing with locals and tourists alike. The menu changes daily, but you can always count on delicious, hearty dishes that will leave you craving more.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, ‘ L’Ambroisie ‘ in the Notre Dame area is a must-try. This Michelin three-star restaurant serves some of the most exquisite French cuisine you’ll ever taste. The setting is elegant, the service is top-notch, and the food is simply out of this world. Just be prepared to pay for it 🙂

But let’s not forget about ‘ Le Jules Verne ‘, located on the Eiffel Tower itself. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a dining experience like no other. The food is phenomenal, of course, but the breathtaking view of the city truly sets it apart. There’s nothing quite like savoring a gourmet meal while gazing out at the sparkling lights of Paris.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to end your day, I’d recommend a cabaret show at the legendary ‘ Crazy Horse ‘. This iconic venue is known for its avant-garde performances that are both provocative and artistic. It’s a bit risqué, a lot of fun, and a quintessential Parisian experience.

With a full belly and a heart full of memories, you’ll have experienced the very best of Paris in a day, as if you’ve visited Paris in the most fulfilling way possible.

Paris in a Day Map

To help you navigate your one-day Paris itinerary effortlessly, utilize the provided map. Here are some tips:

• Mark the must-see attractions, landmarks, and recommended routes on the map to plan your day.
• You can also create a custom map using tools like My Maps.
• Check out travel websites for pre-made one-day Paris itineraries with maps for guidance and inspiration.

With a well-planned map, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this major city, the City of Lights. Utilizing your Google Maps account can help you achieve this.

Are the Travel Passes Worth It?

When considering travel passes like the Paris Pass , Paris Museum Pass , or Paris City Card for your one-day visit, it’s important to weight the costs vs the benefits. While these passes can offer convenience and savings for longer stays, they may not provide the same value for a short visit.

Instead, consider purchasing individual tickets for each attraction and using public transportation to maximize your limited time in Paris.

If you have just a day in Paris, we suggest using public transit over a hop-on hop-off bus, these buses can have long waits to get from one attraction to another. Instead, use Google Maps to help navigate the subway system and use Ubers and taxis when needed.

Skip the Line Ticket: Booking Online Tickets and Tours

One of the optimal ways to save time and optimize your Paris visit is by reserving online tickets and tours. Purchasing skip-the-line tickets in advance allows you to bypass lengthy ticketing queues and head straight to the entrance of popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

Some online booking platforms offer tours that include skip-the-line access, making your visit even more convenient and stress-free.

Practical Information for Your Paris Visit

Before embarking on your Paris adventure, it’s essential to brush up on some practical information. Paris uses the Euro as its currency, so make sure to have some cash.

Familiarize yourself with safety tips to avoid common scams and ensure a smooth experience. Finally, research transportation options like the metro line, RER trains, and buses to help you easily navigate the city.

Best Time to Visit Paris

The optimal time to visit Paris is during the late spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant and the days are longer. This allows you to make the most of your limited time in the city, exploring its charming streets and iconic landmarks in the warm sunshine. However, remember that the summer can also bring more crowds, so be prepared for some famous attractions to be crowded during this time.

Paris in Autumn is also pretty incredible. We have a guide dedicated to the top things to do in the Fall season.

Maximizing Your Day: Transportation Tips

Efficient transportation is crucial to optimizing your day in Paris. Here are some options to consider:

• The metro is an excellent way to cover larger distances quickly.
• Walking or taking a taxi/Uber is a good option for shorter distances.
• Familiarize yourself with the city’s public transportation system.
• Consider purchasing a Paris Visit Travel Pass or a Navigo Easy Card to save time and money on transportation.

With a well-planned itinerary and efficient transportation, you can make the most of your day in Paris while visiting Paris.

Where to Stay for a Short Visit

In terms of accommodation, Paris offers a broad range of options catering to every budget and preference. In fact, we have a whole article dedicated to the Best Places to Stay in Paris . For a short visit, consider staying in a cozy retreat near the historical center in the 1st Arrondissement or choosing a hotel with convenient access to public transportation and airports for early departures. You may even want to splurge on one of these 21 Best Paris Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views .

No matter where you choose to rest your head, you’ll be ready to explore and enjoy all Paris offers. For a cozy retreat near the historic center of Paris, let me share with you three of our personal favorites:

• Hotel de Jobo : This boutique hotel is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Marais district. With its flamboyant decor inspired by Empress Josephine (hence, JoBo), you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a more opulent era. The rooms are comfortable, the staff is warm and welcoming, and the location is perfect – you’re within walking distance of the Louvre and Notre Dame.
• Hotel Providence : Nestled in the trendy 10th arrondissement, this hotel is a dream come true for design lovers. Each room is individually decorated with vintage furniture, stunning wallpapers, and luxurious fabrics. Plus, their bar and restaurant are a hit among locals – the perfect spot to mingle and get a taste of the Parisian lifestyle.
• Le Pavillon de la Reine : Located on the beautiful Place des Vosges, this is the epitome of Parisian elegance. The hotel is set in a 17th-century building, but don’t let its age fool you – the rooms are modern, chic, and incredibly comfortable. And after a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than unwinding in their private courtyard, a green oasis of calm in the bustling city.

Convenience for Early Departures

If you’re looking for a hotel with convenient access to airports and transportation for early departures, consider options like Ibis Styles Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Pullman Paris Roissy CDG Airport. These hotels offer free airport shuttles, adjustable beds, flat-screen TVs, and rain showers, making your stay comfortable and convenient before you continue to your next destination.

Where to Eat in Paris

Paris, my friends, is a culinary wonderland. A gastronomic paradise where every street corner, every alleyway, holds the promise of a memorable meal. From Michelin-starred restaurants that redefine fine dining to charming bistros that serve up soul-warming French food , to cozy cafes perfect for people-watching over a cup of coffee and a croissant. And let’s not forget the bustling food markets, where you can sample a smorgasbord of fresh, local produce.

So, where should you go to eat in Paris?

First up is the Marais district. This historic neighborhood is a foodie’s dream come true. You’ll find everything here, from traditional Jewish bakeries to hip vegan cafes. For a truly Parisian experience, head over to Chez Janou . This bistro is famous for its Provençal fare, and its ratatouille is to die for. If you’re a chocolate lover, you can’t leave without trying their chocolate mousse. It’s served straight from a giant bowl, and you get to tell them when to stop!

Next, is Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This neighborhood blends old-world charm and modern chic, and its food scene is no different. One of my all-time favorites here is Le Comptoir du Relais. It’s always buzzing with locals, and their menu changes daily based on what’s in season. But one thing remains constant – every dish is a celebration of French cuisine. You’ll marvel at their duck confit; their crème brûlée is the best I’ve ever had.

And then there’s the food markets. Oh, the food markets! Rows upon rows of stalls, each one overflowing with the freshest fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and pastries. It’s like a feast for the senses. Marché Bastille is one of the biggest and best in the city. It’s open on Sundays and perfect for a leisurely weekend stroll.

Whether you’re treating yourself to a fancy dinner at a world-class restaurant, tucking into a hearty meal at a neighborhood bistro, or picnicking in a park with goodies from a local market, your taste buds are in for a treat in Paris. Bon appétit!

Savoring Every Moment: How to Save Time in Paris

To cherish every moment of your one day in Paris, consider reserving skip-the-line tickets, utilizing public transportation, and devising your itinerary strategically. By maximizing your time in the city, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Paris and create lasting memories to cherish for a lifetime.

After all, as the saying goes, “Paris is always a good idea.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you do Paris in 1 day?

Absolutely! You can do Paris in one day. It’s a walkable city, and you can fit in some of the must-see sights plus enjoy some delicious treats. So don’t miss out on this amazing experience!

How do you spend a perfect day in Paris?

Experience the beauty of Notre Dame, stroll around Shakespeare & Company and Luxembourg Gardens, and explore the Louvre and Palais Garnier – that’s how to spend a perfect day in Paris!

How do you get around in Paris?

Navigating Paris is easy with its 14 metro lines. Public transit is a popular option among locals and visitors alike, with stations all over the city for you to take advantage of.

Is Paris worth a day trip?

Paris is definitely worth a day trip! You can fit in plenty of sightseeing and delicious treats even with just one day there. So if you’re looking for a quick getaway, Paris is the perfect choice!

How much does it cost for a one-day visit to Paris?

The cost of a one-day visit to Paris is roughly 215 euros per person.

Experiencing the best of Paris in a day is entirely possible with a bit of planning and determination. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame to charming neighborhoods and elegant Seine River cruises, this one-day Paris itinerary offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the City of Lights. As you explore the streets of Paris, savor each moment and let the magic of this unforgettable city sweep you off your feet.

Plan your trip to Paris with these Resources.

Paris in October: Weather, Fall Tips, And What to Expect

• 24 Best Day Trips from Paris
• 21 Best Paris Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views
• Famous People Buried in the Pere Lachaise Cemetery of Paris
• How to Visit Paris on a Budget – 20 Tips to Save Money
• 30 Free Things to do in Paris, France
• 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit
• Where To Stay In Paris – Best Neighborhoods and Hotels

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “Ultimate One Day in Paris Itinerary – How to See Paris in a Day”

Really your trips was so amazing and I like a images are you add in this article too.

Paris in a Day: The Perfect Itinerary

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Paris lives up to the hype. The elegant boulevards, iconic architecture, beautiful parks, and delicious food really do make this a magical city and one we never tire of exploring.

Even if you only have one day in Paris (perhaps on a London to Paris day trip), you can still see (and eat) a lot.

On our last visit, we had one full day in the city on our way from London to Italy by train.

We focused on the major sights and put together an itinerary that would be ideal for first-time visitors to Paris wanting to make the most of a short stay.

In this post, you will find our perfect Paris day trip itinerary, a loop that takes you to the city’s classic sights and beautiful neighbourhoods with some tasty treats along the way.

At the end, there is a map with everything mentioned. 

When to Visit Paris

One day in paris itinerary, where to stay in paris, our paris costs, how to get to paris, getting around paris, paris in a day map, is it worth visiting paris in one day, more france posts.

Our Paris in one day trip was in April, but you could follow this route at any time of year—just dress appropriately.

In spring, wear layers as the weather is very changeable—we had a mix of sun and clouds with variable temperatures.

Our packable down jackets were ideal as when Simon got too hot, he could stuff his inside our daypack .

In winter, I recommend getting an early start to make the most of the daylight.

Back to Contents

We started in Jardin de Plantes as it was just across the river from our hotel, but you could start at any point. There are no ugly sections on this route—it is all gloriously Parisian.

This itinerary does involve a lot of walking—we walked about 14 miles/22.5 km (30,000 steps) in seven hours (10.30am – 5.30pm) and were exhausted by the end.

I have included suggestions of where you could reduce the route or take the metro.

I do think walking is the best way to see this beautiful city, though, and there are plenty of cafes and parks along the way for breaks.

We love exploring the city at our own pace, but if you’d prefer to have a guide show you around, this Paris Highlights tour takes you to many of the attractions we visited and includes Eiffel Tower access. 

Breakfast – Blé Sucré

There’s no need for a hotel breakfast in Paris—affordable bakeries selling delicious croissants and pastries are everywhere.

Luckily our favourite bakery was only a 10-minute walk from our hotel (the Timhotel Paris Gare de Lyon ).

The croissants and pain au chocolat at Blé Sucré (7 Rue Antoine Vollon) were as good as we remembered—huge and perfectly flaky. As it’s always busy, we took our pastries to eat in the park opposite.

See these suggestions for the best croissants in Paris if you want somewhere closer to your hotel.

Another fancier breakfast option would be Angelina tea house near the Louvre. I have included it later in the itinerary, but there’s no reason you couldn’t start there.

Jardin des Plantes

After breakfast we headed across the Seine enjoying views of Notre-Dame as we walked over the Pont d’Austerlitz .

Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden in France and dates back to 1626. Entry is free and it’s a lovely place for a stroll.

In early April, flowers had just been planted in the formal beds that line the broad walkways and the pink and white cherry blossom trees were blooming.

You can also visit the Natural History Museum in the gardens, but it is closed on Tuesdays when we visited.

Latin Quarter

The area of Paris on the Left Bank between the Seine and Luxembourg Gardens is known as the Latin Quarter .

It’s home to the Sorbonne University , one of the oldest colleges in Europe, and got its name from the theology students who spoke in Latin until the French Revolution.

This iconic neighbourhood can be touristy, but it’s still charming, and the narrow winding streets are a good place to wander and discover little bistros, independent boutiques, and cosy bookshops.

The market street Rue Mouffetard is one of the most typical and historic streets to explore.

One of the major sights of the Latin Quarter is the grandiose Pantheon , which was originally a church until the French Revolution and now contains the tombs of many famous French figures including Victor Hugo, Marie Curie, and Alexandre Dumas.

It’s worth admiring the Pantheon from outside (like we did) even if you don’t go inside (tickets cost €11.50 adults/ free for children).

The mammoth building is very imposing and is surrounded by more grand buildings including the curved facade of the Law Faculty of the Pantheon-Sorbonne University, the Sainte-Geneviève Library , and the Saint-Étienne-du-Mont church .

The area was buzzing with students enjoying their lunch break in the sun.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Luxembourg Gardens dates back to 1612 and is one of the most popular parks in Paris.

There’s plenty to explore, but it’s also a good place to take a break as there are lots of chairs, so pull one up and admire the fountains and magnificent Luxembourg Palace .

The tulips were blooming and we realised why everyone raves about spring in Paris (we’ll forget about the pouring rain we arrived to the night before!).

Saint Germain

Continue through Sant Germain , the quintessential Parisian neighbourhood of elegant buildings, charming streets, and picturesque squares.

This chic area is full of interesting-looking (but pricey) shops selling antiques, clothes, paper, chocolate, macarons ( Pierre Hermé is our favourite) and more.

You can take a break at one of the classic cafes like Les Deux Magots which was frequented by writers and artists including Hemingway, Sartre, and Picasso. The outdoor tables were packed on a sunny spring lunchtime.

Hot Chocolate at Café de Flore

By this point, after nearly three hours of walking, we were in definite need of a break.

We’d eaten breakfast too late to want lunch, so we went to Café de Flore (172 Boulevard Saint-Germain), known to make some of the best hot chocolate in Paris (the food is reportedly average), and another hangout of the early 20th century intellectuals.

We knew what we were getting into—it is touristy—so we weren’t too shocked by the €7.80 price tag for a Special Flore hot chocolate, and it was excellent—rich, thick and intensely chocolatey.

Café de Flore has a classic bistro vibe with red booth seating, mahogany tables, gold-rimmed Art Deco mirrors, and waiters in long white aprons and black waistcoats. It all feels very Parisian.

Although we enjoyed our drink, I prefer the chocolate and extravagant decor of Angelina (see below), so you could stop there for your hot chocolate break instead.

Option 1: Eiffel Tower

Our plan for the day was rather ambitious, and at this point we were due to visit the Rodin Sculpture Museum and continue to the Eiffel Tower .

We realised we didn’t have the energy for both, so we left the museum for another visit and walked 40 minutes from the cafe to the Eiffel Tower.

Along the way we strolled down the stylish Boulevard Saint Germain and stumbled upon random grand buildings and stunning squares.

We ended up at the east pillar of the Eiffel Tower, walking down a narrow street with it looming above us.

We didn’t climb the tower as the queues are horrendous, but it was impressive to see it up close.

If you want to go up, it’s essential to book your tickets in advance here to avoid the queues. 

You could also save your legs by taking the metro from Saint-Germain des Pres station to Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel —take line 4 two stops to Saint-Michel then switch to the RER C train.

Option 2: Cross the Seine River

Although we were glad we did the walk to the Eiffel Tower, it is a long detour from the rest of this itinerary and adds about 3.7 miles / 6 km.

A shorter route after Café de Flore would be to walk down to the Seine, walk along the Left Bank until the magnificent Alexandre III bridge , cross over, and continue down the opposite side to the Louvre area. You could combine this with Option 3.

Option 3: Art Museum

Rather than trek all the way to the Eiffel Tower, you might decide to spend part of the day at an art museum, one of the most popular things to do in Paris.

If it’s your first trip to Paris, you might feel like you have to visit the Louvre , but don’t feel any pressure to do so—honestly, the Mona Lisa is rather disappointing.

If you’re not that into art, you’ll probably have a much better day in Paris wandering the streets and chocolate shopping.

It’s worth seeing from the outside, though, which is why it’s a stop later on this route.

If you really want to visit the Louvre, buy your tickets online in advance or at least use the quieter Carrousel entrance in the mall below the museum. Note that it’s closed on Tuesdays. These Louvre tips  will help you make the most of your visit. 

I think the Musée d’Orsay is a better choice if you only have time for one art museum in Paris.

It’s not as crowded, the old train station setting is beautiful, and there’s a stunning collection of Impressionist art by Monet, Degas, Cézanne and more. It’s closed on Mondays.

Other options are the Musée de l’Orangerie for Monet’s Water Lillies (closed Tuesdays) and the Rodin Museum for sculpture (closed Mondays).

Walk Along the Seine

Whichever option you choose, you’ll next cross the Seine .

From the Eiffel Tower cross the Pont d’Iena and you’ll get fantastic views of the tower from the other side.

From here we took a long walk along the river. There are many sights to enjoy along the way including the incongruous gold domes of the Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Cathedral , the ornate Alexandre III bridge , and the Grand Palais .

If you are very energetic, you could take a detour to see the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées , both major Paris attractions, but honestly not our favourite part of the city.

If you are feeling tired, take the metro to Concorde and continue with the itinerary.

Place de la Concorde and Jardin des Tuileries

Once you reach Place de la Concorde walk through this grand square, which is the largest in Paris and features an Egyptian Obelisk and two fountains.

It leads into the Jardin des Tuileries where you can ride the Ferris wheel, relax on chairs by the pond, and stroll the wide boulevards past fountains and statues. We took a break on some of the chairs here.

From Jardin des Tuileries walk through the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel  (a smaller version of the famous arch) to the Louvre.

Even though I don’t think it’s worth braving the crowds to go inside unless you are a major art buff, it’s well worth visiting the courtyard to see the splendid Louvre Palace contrasting with the modern glass pyramid entrance.

La Maison du Chocolat Shop

It wouldn’t be Paris without sweet treats. Usually, our favourite place for macarons is Pierre Hermé (which has branches all over the city), but on this trip we decided to try somewhere different.

La Maison du Chocolat has a branch in the upmarket Carrousel du Louvre shopping centre under the museum.

As you’d expect from a Parisian chocolate shop, all the products are exquisite, delicious, and pricey (€2 for a macaron or €1.20 for a small chocolate). You can buy gift boxes or choose a selection in a bag for yourself. It’s all wonderful, especially the chocolate and passionfruit macarons.

Read about the best chocolate shops in Paris for more ideas. 

Angelina: An Alternative Hot Chocolate Stop

Instead of Café de Flore (or as well as, if you can manage it), you could stop at the Angelina tea house (226 Rue de Rivoli) next to Jardin des Tuileries.

The African hot chocolate is even more decadent than at Café de Flore and the elegant Belle Époque decor makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Île de la Cité 

After the Louvre, continue your stroll along the Seine —the views are beautiful all the way. Remember to turn around to see the Eiffel Tower behind you.

Île de la Cité is a picturesque little island in the Seine that’s home to the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral.

We crossed over to the island on the Pont Neuf and walked through the pleasant triangular square Place Dauphine .

We were exhausted, thirsty, and in need of a toilet at this point and really should have stopped for a break at one of the bars here.

Instead, we continued on, and it became very touristy very quickly.

Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and dates back to the 13th century.

Tragically a massive fire in April 2019 destroyed the spire and most of the roof of the cathedral. It is being rebuilt but this could take five years or more. 

It’s no longer possible to go inside Notre-Dame, but you can still see the outside from a distance. 

Why not try this Notre Dame Outdoor Walking Tour with Crypt Entry to find out more about the ongoing restoration work?

An alternative place to visit on the island is Sainte-Chapelle , a 13th-century gothic chapel with stunning stained glass windows.

The queues are long so it’s worth buying a skip the line ticket in advance as it costs the same as purchasing it onsite (€11.50). 

From Notre-Dame we crossed to the quieter neighbouring island Île Saint-Louis and stopped for a much-needed drink at La Chaumiere en l’Ile .

From here we returned to our hotel for a break before dinner.

Le Marais for Dinner

We planned to head to Le Marais neighbourhood for dinner, and I do recommend this if you have the energy.

We couldn’t face any more walking so ended up at upmarket vegan restaurant Gentle Gourmet near our hotel, which unfortunately is now closed.

In Le Marais there are plenty of options for dinner . If you are on a budget (or vegetarian), this area is known for its falafel— L’As du Fallafel is the most famous but there are many others. The grilled vegetable pitta sandwiches at Miznon also sound delicious.

For something more traditionally French, Breizh Cafe is one of the best places for galettes and crepes in Paris and they have vegetarian options. It’s popular so make a reservation, get there early, or be prepared to wait. It’s on our list for next time.

While you are in the area, it’s also worth seeing Le Village St Paul and Place des Vosges .

If you are in Paris for a night or two, I recommend either staying somewhere on this route ( St Germain or the Latin Quarter would be ideal) or if you have an early morning train, choose a hotel close to the train station.

Gare du Nord is where the Eurostar train arrives and departs for London, and Gare de Lyon is the main station for travelling south (including the TGV to Italy).

Gare de l’Est is a 10-minute walk from Gare du Nord and is for trains east such as to gorgeous Colmar .

Where We Stayed Near Gare de Lyon

We stayed near Gare de Lyon (only two stops on the RER D train from Gare du Nord) because our train to Italy left at 6.30am.

We stayed in an ensuite classic double room at the Timhotel Paris Gare de Lyon . It’s one of the most affordable options in the area (prices from €148 a night) and is only five minutes walk to the station.

It’s clean and comfortable but the rooms are small and the WiFi didn’t work in our room (request one with a better signal). While it’s nothing special, it’s fine for a night or two.

Hotels Near Gare du Nord

These are about a five-minute walk from Gare du Nord, perfect if you have an early Eurostar train.

• Le Rocroy Hotel Paris Gare du Nord  – Comfortable, spacious, and affordable rooms with air conditioning. 
• Hotel Mademoiselle – A stylish boutique hotel with all mod cons, spa, and small gym. 

Hotels in St Germain

If you want to stay in the heart of the action, St Germain is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Paris and perfect for this one-day itinerary. It isn’t cheap, but a few affordable options can be found.

• Hôtel Bel Ami – A chic five-star hotel in an ideal location just steps from Cafe de Flore. 
• Millésime Hôtel – Elegant rooms and friendly staff. 
• Hotel Clément   – One of the most affordable options in this area with small but comfortable rooms. 

For two nights/one day in Paris we spent £367 for two people (£184 per person) which is broken down as:

• Eurostar train (one way) £88
• Metro (2 single tickets) £3.31
• Hotel (2 nights) £161.42
• Food and drink £114

You could reduce expenses by choosing cheaper accommodation (likely with shared bathroom), avoiding cafes, and buying a baguette and cheese for dinner rather than eating in a restaurant (we usually happily do this in Paris).

On a previous trip we managed to spend £30 a day per person—see our Paris on a budget guide for details.

Of course, prices may have increased considerably since our last visit.

Eurostar from London to Paris

The fast, comfortable Eurostar train is the best way to travel from London to Paris.

The journey from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord takes from just two hours 16 minutes, and there are trains almost every hour during the day.

The cheapest tickets cost £44, but you’ll need to book far in advance (up to 180 days) and travel off peak to get the best rates.

We paid £44 each for tickets on a Monday afternoon in April booking three months in advance. You can book on the Eurostar website .

If you are travelling with an Interrail or Eurail pass the Eurostar is included but you must book in advance and pay a seat reservation fee of €30. 

London to Paris Day Trip

It is possible to visit Paris in a day from London on the Eurostar. On weekdays the earliest train departs London at 6.01am and arrives in Paris at 9.21am or the 7.01am train arrives at 10.21am.

There are return trains back every hour until 9.09pm (which arrives in London at 10.30pm), so you could have up to 12 hours in the city—more than enough time for this Paris one day itinerary. Return tickets can be as low as £78 if you book months in advance.

On Sundays, the earliest train is at 8.01am (arriving 11.20am), so you’ll have more time if you travel on a different day.

Don’t forget to bring your passport and remember that Paris is an hour ahead of London.

If you don’t want to organise your day trip yourself, see this London to Paris day tour which includes train tickets, guided tour, and boat trip.

From Other European Destinations

Search on Rail Europe for trains from other destinations in Europe to Paris and Kiwi for cheap flights.

Although most of this route is on foot, you will likely need to take the metro or RER train from your hotel or train station.

Metro tickets are valid on both systems and you can buy them from machines in the stations.

A single ticket costs €2.10 or if you’ll be travelling on the metro a lot, you can buy a one-day Mobilis pass valid in zones 1–2 for €8.45.

You can plan your route on Google Maps, the RATP website , or see a map here .

Absolutely! Even if you only have time for one day in Paris, it’s worth visiting the City of Lights. It’s a walkable city and you can see a lot on a short break, plus enjoy some delicious treats along the way.

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12 Comments

Thanks for the how to dress in April comment. My daughter and I are doing the London to Paris to Frankfurt to Munich and on to Italy. 13 days . April 23 2022- May 9. Really looking forward to eating our way through Paris and Italy. We are dieting in order to fit the desserts in and stay in the clothes we bring. Lol.

Reply ↓

Enjoyed your article as it reminded me of our month-long tour of Europe in September 2018. My husband and I decided to take advantage and visited 11 cities, starting in London and ending in Rome. After Chunneling to for our three days in Paris, we stayed in the Saint Germain area, taking the hop-on hop-off (which we did on practically every city) and formal tours of the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Catacombs, boating the Seine, Moulin Rouge and Versailles, using the subway and bus to get around. Seemed like we walked everywhere, taking advantage of the little bakeries, cafes and markets along the way to ensure we got rest breaks and snacks so my husband could manage his blood sugar. Paris is so beautiful and historic. Where do you get to meet the actual owner of your hotel or talk with the locals at the cafes? Exhausted, we took the train to Lyon to transfer to our next stop Geneva, looking forward to a rest with a side trip to Chamonix. We are going back to Paris in April 2019 for 10 days. Already planning a side train trip to a nearby destination for a couple of days within. Happy to share info on all of our destinations if requested. Signed up for your newsletter. Thank you for a wonderful blog.

That sounds like a wonderful trip Candace! I love how walkable Paris is (and how many treats there are along the way!). Enjoy your next trip and thanks for reading and signing up for the newsletter.

We did something fairly similar to you in terms of what we chose to do for one day in Paris, just order was slightly different. You are right putting bakery first! I don’t think we planned for it but we did go to one in the morning and yum!

I am so glad to have stumbled across your blog!! My hubby and I are doing a one day trip in July! I’m a little nervous about the crowds since we will be there the day before Bastille day. But your blog has given me an idea of how we can make a day work!! Thank you!!!

We love Paris in the summer – enjoy!

I visited Paris in late September when its boulevards and parks were just spectacular with warm-coloured foliage. I’ve covered almost everything featured on your blog. Also, I’ve explored flea markets and suggest to consider adding Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen to a one-day itinerary. However, expect to spend some time among its endless stalls and note that open-air flea markets operate mostly April to October. Another thing which I can’t see in your itinerary was the abandoned railway Chemin de fer de Petite Ceinture. But I was told it’s much more impressive during the spring bloom than in autumn. Had the queues been shorter, I’d also have visited Paris catacombs. I’m doing that during my next visit.

Paris in autumn sounds wonderful! There are so many things to do in the city it’s hard to narrow it down to just a one day itinerary.

Jardins du Luxembourg! I have spent a cumulative year or two in Paris, and this is still my favorite garden. A must see! Especially in the summer when there are kids pushing around little sailboats! I would add in a couple glasses at a cave de vin, many gorgeous ones around the Marais and Republique as you suggested!

It is gorgeous, isn’t it? We got so lucky that the sun was out when we were there.

Musee de l’Orangerie was my choise. Since Monet is my favourite artist I rather spend my time there than standing in the long line to the Louvre.

I really want to go there! And to the Giverny gardens to see his inspiration.

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Our Adventure Journal

How to Spend One Perfect Day in Paris (Full Guide!)

Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Kelly

Paris is a dream destination, and you could easily spend several weeks seeing all there is to see in the city. But you might be wondering, is it worth visiting Paris for a day trip ? Our answer: It’s absolutely worth visiting Paris for one day! I’ve been to Paris many times, and I think it’s definitely worthwhile to spend a day in Paris. During our last trip, we had just one day in Paris before heading to our next destination. In this post, I’m sharing my guide for planning a day trip to Paris!

Reasons to Plan a Day Trip to Paris

If you have the opportunity to spend a day in Paris, take it! There are a lot of reasons you might choose to spend just one day in Paris:

• You have a tight itinerary while backpacking Europe
• You have a layover in Paris en route to another destination
• You’re in a bordering country and have a free day to explore

It’s very feasible to take a day trip to Paris from the United Kingdom, Luxembourg, or Belgium. (Just as an example!) 

Here’s some train travel times I was able to find while writing this article between popular European cities and Paris:

• London to Paris: approximately 2.5 hours by train
• Luxembourg to Paris: approximately 3 hours by train
• Brussels to Paris: approximately 1.5 hours by train

Itinerary for a Day Trip to Paris

I wrote this itinerary for what we think is the perfect day trip itinerary for Paris. This itinerary works well if you have 12 hours to spend in Paris. (Although feel free to modify based on how much time you have!) 

I wrote this itinerary with the assumption that many travelers will arrive at the train station Gare du Nord . Feel free to modify this itinerary to fit the logistics of your trip. I include the map below so you can easily plan out your day. If you’re arriving from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport , you can catch a train to the city center or take a taxi and this itinerary will work just fine.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

9am: Basilique du Sacré Coeur de Montmartre

The Basilica Sacré Coeur is a Roman Catholic Church located in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris. The basilica sits on top of a hill and has excellent views of Paris. It’s known for its large white domes and panoramic views of the city. Because of this, it’s one of the most famous tourist attractions in Paris . The church was built in 1914. Be sure to check out the statue of Joan of Arc on the south facade. 

The basilica is open very early in the morning and has a free entrance. We recommend visiting first-thing in the morning so you can beat the crowds! If you want to visit the dome, though, you’ll need to visit a bit later in the morning when the dome entrance opens. It’s 300 steps to the top and there isn’t an elevator. There is an admission charge to access the dome.

11:00am: Place de la Concorde and Jardin des Tuileries

Before heading to the Louvre Museum, we recommend that you walk through Place de la Concorde and Jardin des Tuileries. Both sites are right next to the Louvre, so you’ll want to make sure you see them both! 

The Place de la Concorde is the largest public square in the city of Paris. It was first built in 1772.  At the center of the square is the Luxor Obelisk . This obelisk was gifted to France in 1830 from Muhammad Ali Pasha, who was the ruler of Ottoman Egypt. Historians have estimated that the obelisk, which originally was part of a set that framed the Luxor Temple, was constructed around 1300 BC. In exchange for the gift, France gave Egypt the Cairo Citadel Clock.

To the east of Place de la Concorde is the Jardin des Tuileries . The garden was first built in 1564, and it became a public park after the French Revolution. This massive garden contains plenty of green lawn, lots of statues, ponds, and more. One of our favorite memories from our last trip to Paris is strolling through this garden. We bought a beignet, found a bench, and let our feet rest while we enjoyed the landscaping. As you walk further east toward the Louvre, you’ll see the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, which was built in 1809.

12:pm: Musée du Louvre

Tour Information: Book a guided tour of the Louvre with reserved entry included. 

One of Paris’s most famous attractions is the Louvre Museum, which is the world’s largest museum . You could spend weeks in the Louvre, but if you only have a couple hours, we recommend seeing the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and the Venus de Milo.

I’ve visited the Louvre several times over the years, and it’s very easy to find your way to the Mona Lisa. (Mostly you just follow the crowds, but there’s also plenty of signs.) When you arrive to the room in which the painting is kept, you’ll almost always see a large crowd and a long line to see the painting. If you want to see the painting up close, you’ll have to wait in the queue. During my last visit, I was satisfied just seeing it from a distance.

If you hate crowds and seeing the Mona Lisa isn’t high on your list, then I highly recommend exploring some of the Louvre’s other galleries. There are many galleries that are much more quiet and contain some pretty magnificent artwork!

We also recommend that you save some time to explore the exterior of the Louvre, which was originally a fortress. In the central courtyard, you’ll see the iconic I.M. Pei Pyramid . The Louvre actually has a total of 5 glass pyramids (one of them is inverted within the Louvre itself). Make sure to take some photos of the glass pyramids before you leave.

After visiting the Louvre, find a spot to sit down and have lunch. We had a meal at Cafe de Paris, which was less than a 5-minute walk from the Louvre. We enjoyed a Croque Madame, French Onion Soup, and Sparkling Champagne. 

3:30pm: Île de la Cité

The Île de la Cité is one of the most important tourist attractions in Paris. On this small island, you’ll find two important places to visit: Sainte-Chapelle and Notre Dame .

• Sainte-Chapelle

Visiting Sainte-Chapelle was one of my favorite things from our trip to Paris. It often gets overshadowed by its neighbor, Notre Dame, but Sainte-Chapelle is a spectacular church. Although I’ve been to Paris numerous times, it was only until my most recent visit that I finally visited Sainte-Chapelle. I was sorry I had waited so long! I’d definitely recommend that you visit Sainte-Chapelle on your first visit to Paris.

Sainte-Chapelle is especially famous for its stained glass windows. The church has a total of 1,113 stained glass windows . The church was completed in 1248 and used to house several important Christian relics, including the remains of the crown of thorns (which is now stored within the treasury of Notre-Dame).

Currently the Cathedral of Notre Dame is temporarily closed. The cathedral is still being restored following the fire in 2019 that damaged much of the building. It’s estimated that it will re-open in December of 2024. However, you should absolutely walk over and see the exterior of the building.

It’s definitely still worth walking over to see Notre Dame in-person! We walked over right after seeing Sainte-Chapelle, and it was still an impressive sight. I’ve been inside Notre Dame several times on prior trips to Paris, so I’m looking forward to it re-opening back to its original splendor.

5pm: Latin Quarter

Paris’s Latin Quarter has tons of amazing things to see! This is the oldest neighborhood in Paris, so it’s steeped in history. There are lots of things to do in the Latin Quarter, you could easily spend an entire day in exploring this neighborhood. (We wrote a full post about things to do in the Latin Quarter, linked here !)

If you just have a couple hours in the Latin Quarter, we recommend that you see Fontaine Saint-Michel, Saint Severin Church, and Shakespeare & Company. Also be sure to grab a cream puff at Odette! If you have a little more time, you might be able to squeeze in a quick look at either the Sorbonne, the Pantheon, or the Luxembourg Garden. (Your choice!)

8pm: Eiffel Tower

Important Information: Be sure to book your tickets in advance. You can book directly through the official website, by clicking here . This is our recommendation, unless you prefer a tour.

This one-day itinerary ends at the Eiffel Tower. Depending on the season you visit, you might make it in time for sunset.

The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 and is 1,083 feet tall. Although it’s an iconic symbol of Paris, most Parisians hated the structure, which they deemed ugly.

If you want to go up the Eiffel Tower, you’ll have to purchase a ticket. You can choose to visit either the Second Level or the Summit. I’ve done both, and I recommend going to the summit if you’re able to do so. There’s a Champagne Bar at the summit, and it’s pretty amazing to have a glass of champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower! If you can’t make it to the top, though, the views from the Second Level are also amazing! 

If you have the opportunity to spend a day in Paris, we hope that you take it! Here’s our itinerary for spending one day in Paris: 

• Basilica Sacré Coeur is a Roman Catholic Church
• Place de la Concorde
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Musée du Louvre
• Île de la Cité
• Latin Quarter
• Eiffel Tower

During our last trip to Paris, we had one day in Paris when we first landed in Europe, and then we had a second day in Paris on our way out of Europe. We found that we could cover a lot of ground with our one-day excursions in the city, and I hope you do too! 

Disclaimer: We always strive for content accuracy. Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricing, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.

Hi, I’m Kelly!

After studying abroad in Spain, I became passionate about international travel. Since then, I’ve traveled to 6 continents and 36 states within the United States. When I’m not travel blogging, you can find me hiking, reading books in Spanish, or playing cribbage. I hope my blog inspires you to see the world!

One Day in Paris Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Paris, France

Paris is the third most visited city in the world, and if you ever get a chance to visit it you’ll quickly understand why! It is an incredibly beautiful city that remains authentic and traditional in the modern world. The architecture is absolutely stunning, the food is mouth-wateringly delicious and the monuments are breathtaking. It’s a city that a lot of people fall in love with, charmed by its unique beauty.

GUEST POST BY CHLOE MARTIN BLOG: My Life Living Abroad

What’s the best time to visit Paris?

Paris is one of those places that is beautiful in every season. Really!

In the spring , the cherry blossom trees bloom all around the city giving the impression that the city is covered in candy floss. In summer , the sun shines brightly and the river banks transform from a busy road into a beach – a pedestrians paradise! F all and the red and orange leaves make the city feel warm and alive and people outside on terraces soak up the last of the good weather while sipping wine. And last but not least, in winter the days get darker but the city lights up with Christmas markets and decorations, literally transforming into its nickname, the City of Lights.

In case you can’t decide when to visit Paris, pick  May. The weather is warm, the city isn’t too over-crowded and there are plenty of things to do!

What’s good to know about Paris?

Paris is not a gigantic city, so you can actually walk from one monument to another! From the Louvre to the Champs Elysees is a 20 minutes’ walk, the Champs Elysees to the Eiffel Tower is a 15 minutes’ walk and Notre Dame to the Pompidou center is only 15 minutes, too! And the route you take is always really beautiful!

Even if you don’t feel like walking, don’t worry! Paris has one of the most efficient metro systems in the world, and ticket prices are very reasonable. It is recommended to buy a pack of ten tickets when you arrive, which you can buy at a discounted rate.

Interesting events that take place in Paris

F ê te de la musique (world music day) on june 21 st.

On this special day the city comes alive with music . There are free events all over the city, and famous musicians even come and play for free. It’s an amazing and unique day that you have to experience in Paris!

F ê te de la Bastille (Bastille Day) on July 14 th

Every year the Parisians commemorate the beginning of the French Revolution with a huge firework display around the Eiffel Tower and all day picnics on the Champ de Mars. It’s by far one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen!

One day in Paris Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Paris.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast

Start your day by picking up a croissant or pain au chocolat from Du Pain et des Idées (34 rue Yves Toudic, Paris 10eme). Their pastry has a hint of almond to it and simply melts in your mouth. And yes, this place was voted one of the best bakeries in Paris.

Visit the Opera house

From there, walk just 100 meters to the metro and jump on the line 8 to the Opera station. At this station you will find – drumroll please – the Opera house! It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris, and you can visit it for just 5 euros.

Spend some time in Galeries Lafayette

After a tour of the Opera house, pop into Galeries Lafayette , a huge department store located directly behind the Opera. As well as being great for shopping, it has a beautiful dome ceiling and a terrace where you can eat, drink and have a beautiful view of Paris. It’s totally free to use the terrace, so even if you don’t enjoy shopping it’s worth checking out the view.

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower

After some shopping/Paris gazing, hop back on the metro line 9, which is just outside the department store, and head over to Trocadéro to visit the Iron Lady – the Eiffel Tower! When you exit at Trocadéro, you should make your way onto the square where you can enjoy the most superb view of the Eiffel Tower!

From there walk down the steps and through the Champ de Mars (the park at the foot of the Tower) and to the tower itself. Go to the top and enjoy the view!

Check out the Louvre Museum

This converted Palace is truly magnificent inside out. The Louvre Museum collection is actually so large you would need a month to see it all, so you should better skip it if you only have one day in Paris. However, don’t miss the chance to check out the exterior and snap a few photos of the building.

Grab some lunch at Marché des Enfants Rouges

It’s lunchtime! Take the line 8 (the station É cole Militaire is located just behind the Eiffel Tower) to the stop called Filles du Calvaire. At this stop you will need to walk a short distance (430m – 5 minutes maxi) to the Marché des Enfants Rouges (The Red Children’s Market). This historical market takes its name from the 16th-century orphanage that was originally built on this site. The orphanage closed before the revolution but was eventually reopened as a deluxe food market in 2000 after extensive campaigning from the locals. It’s a fantastic place for locals and tourists to eat! At the market you can find a variety of food from all different countries to try, which makes this the perfect place to grab some lunch!

Pay a visit to the Pompidou Center

After you have satisfied your stomachs, head to the metro station Arts et Metiers which is a short walk away (about 7 minutes!). When you reach the station, take the line 11 just two stops to Hotel de Ville . This is the city’s town hall and another exceptionally beautiful building. From the town hall’s square you can see our next two destinations! The Pompidou Center on your left and Notre Dame on your right.

Go and explore the Pompidou Center , a building built entirely inside out! This modern art museum is totally one of a kind and holds some of Dali’s most famous work.

Visit Notre Dame and Île de la Cité

Time to go to Notre Dame ! Walk the short distance and check out the beautiful cathedral and its gardens. Notre Dame is an absolute must see with its beautiful stain glass windows and breathtaking architecture. It looks pretty good for its age – over 800 years old!

Behind Notre Dame is a small island with traditional French shops and restaurants, it’s like stepping back in time! Take a break after this, you’ll be tired! Go grab a coffee at Shakespeare & Co’s lovely little café just across the street.

Enjoy a memorable evening in Paris

For dinner head to Chartier  –  it’s on line 9 at the stop Grands Boulevard. You can’t miss it: there’s a big lit up arrow with the name on it! Chartier is a fantastic, authentic French restaurant with waiters in penguin suits and delicious French food . It used to be a train station and has been open for over 100 years!

After dinner take the line 9 again to Republique and check out Lavomatic , 30 Rue René Boulanger, 75010, one of Paris’ speakeasy bars. It’s actually a bar concealed in a laundromat, and you wouldn’t know it was there unless someone let you in on its secret!

To dance the night away, finish at Barrio Latino (46 – 48 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012) a Spanish bar and club which is a short walk from Lavomatic. A fantastic place for dancing and drinking!

Where to stay in Paris?

Hotel 34B – Astotel

34, rue Bergère, 9th arr., 75009 Paris

Hotel 34B is a design hotel that successfully combines contemporary design with historical layout with its vaulted cellar, Haussmann-style facade and mosaic Art-deco-style floor in the lobby. Rooms are decorated in blue-white tones, elegantly furnished. The hotel is perfectly located – it’s within a walking distance to Opéra Garnier and Louvre Museum.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel George – Astotel

46 Rue Notre Dame De Lorette, 9th arr., 75009 Paris

Hotel George is a beautiful boutique hotel located in Paris’s 9th district, in a characteristic Parisian building, less than 10 minutes’ walk from the famous Moulin Rouge. Its bright rooms combine  contemporary yet classic style and bring back to life in a trendy way the 1950s atmosphere. The large breakfast room with the children’s corner add a special touch to this original atmosphere.

Generator Paris

9 – 11 Place du Colonel Fabien, 10th arr., 75010 Paris

Generator Paris is a designer hostel located in the lively 10th district in Paris. The hostel features a stylish lounge area with game room decorated in a North African design . Enjoy plenty of evening entertainment – from Café Fabien, metro station looking night bar or rooftop bar with the jaw dropping views of the Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre.

Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels

20 rue d’Orsel, 18th arr., 75018 Paris

Le Village Montmartre  is a great mixture of a cheap and friendly youth hostel, and a cozy hotel. It features a  beautiful terrace , from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the famous Parisian roof, and the Sacré Coeur. All of the cozy rooms come with the private bathroom.

Day trips from Paris

Chateau de versailles.

A little outside of Paris you’ll find the Chateau of Versailles, which was built by Louis XIV. The palace is stunning with the hall of mirrors and the King’s Grand Apartment, and you have to visit Marie Antoinette’s Gardens. It really is something special!

Extra tips for visiting Paris

– If you need someone to help you out with your transfer from or to the airport, Welcome is the answer. They provide all kinds of services designed to make your visit here as simple and as enjoyable as possible, but most important one is reliable and cheap transport. 

– If you are under 26 and here on a weekend or bank holiday, buy a ticket jeune . You can use this ticket all day until 1am and go all around the city with it. It only costs around 4 euros!

– Look into Museum passes if you’re a history buff. It will work out cheaper to get a pass if you plan on visiting a lot of museums.

– Be careful with your belongings, Paris is a city after all and there are occasionally pickpockets . However, as long as you are sensible you won’t have any problems!

– Last but not least – check out my blog before you come, I recommend the best things to do in Paris including bars and restaurants!

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Paris Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Chloe Martin

Chloe Martin is a professional blogger and faux Parisian based in Paris. Originally from a small English seaside town, Chloe moved to France after graduation armed with a bachelor’s degree in Publishing and English. The then-21-year-old planned to learn French for a year but after falling in love with the city, she couldn’t leave! Five years later, Chloe knows the city very well and loves giving recommendations, advice and top tips for living in and visiting Paris. Chloe is a total foodie, an avid reader and a zealous writer. For more information check out her blog at www.mylifelivingabroad.com

fantastic blog you take care of here. Just discovered you using bing! appreciated all you empaty into this work.

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Your Paris itinerary: plan your one day trip to Paris

If you love Paris (and I know you do), this is the series of posts you’ve been waiting for.  The best Paris itineraries regardless of how long you are staying in Paris.  Unlike most Paris itineraries, my Paris itinerary planner includes alternatives to consider, and how to plan a trip to Paris with children or if you have special interests.  Over future posts, I’ll be covering the best Paris itineraries for one, two, three, five or seven days.  Regardless of your budget and how long you are spending in Paris, my Paris itinerary series will help you plan your trip to Paris to maximise your time in Paris. To kick off the series, I’m discussing visiting Paris in a day.  While a one day trip to Paris is not ideal, and there is certainly little opportunity to check out all the best Paris Instagram spots it is still possible to hit a number of the big ticket items and have a fun day during a day trip in Paris.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Click here to read my full disclosure

If you prefer a guided tour, it is possible to book Paris in a day guided tours. I recommend the excellent Take Walks:

Start off at Notre Dame Cathedral.  While Notre Dame remains closed you can still take in its grandeur from the outside. It is also possible to do an interactive virtual visit. Depending on what time you leave Notre Dame, you can either go to Shakespeare & Co. (opens at 10.00am Monday to Friday and 11am on weekends) or Ste Chapelle (opens at 9.30am).  If you are super early in starting your day, or don’t want to linger long at Notre Dame you will have plenty of time to admire the river views.  Turn left from the Notre Dame courtyard, then walk towards the back of the cathedral.  At the end of the island (Ile de la Cité) there are some lovely views back over the Ile St Louis and the Left Bank.  Then take the first bridge (more lovely views back over Notre Dame and the river) and enjoy a wander along to Shakespeare & Co.

Shakespeare & Co is probably the most famous book shop in Paris.  Even if books aren’t your thing it’s a pretty shop to enjoy from the outside.  If you are looking for some cheap and easy gifts or souvenirs, the last time I visited Shakespeare & Co they were selling cute calico book bags for a few Euros each.

After your visit to Shakespeare & Co continue left out of the shop (therefore heading west) towards Place St Michel, and cross the Pont St Michel where Sainte Chapelle will be right in front of you on the left.  If you haven’t bought your Museum Pass or skip the lines ticket you can buy a Museum Pass at the tabac at 5 bvde du Palais.

It is likely you will need to queue at Ste Chapelle, regardless of what time you get there.  The first queue will be for security, which you will need to queue for even with a pass.  If you have a Museum Pass or skip the line ticket (you can buy Paris skip the line tickets here ) you can then go in without queuing at the second queue to buy a ticket.

Ste Chapelle is certainly one of my favorite places to visit in Paris, so do make sure you spend plenty of time enjoying its tiny details (both up and downstairs).

The   Ultimate Paris Address Book 2024  is your insider address book to Paris with 100 pages and 500 places to sleep, eat, shop and see.  Listed by arrondissement,   The Ultimate Paris Address Book 2024  is the perfect accompaniment to a traditional guide book to plan your trip to Paris.  From where to find a charming country lane in the middle of Paris to ice cream and chocolates from a multi Michelin starred legend, The Ultimate Paris Address Book will help you say au revoir to the tourist traps and bonjour to the real Paris. Buy your copy now >>

After Ste Chapelle it’s a very short stroll to the Conciergerie.  The Conciergerie is famous for its time as a prison during the French Revolution.  While it was the final home of many aristocrats it is most famous for being where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned.  I like the Conciergerie because of its starkness and austerity compared to its neighbour Ste Chapelle.  There are some interesting documents and artifacts, as well as Revolution scene recreations, which makes the Conciergerie an interesting place to visit, particularly for those interested in history.

Our next stop is the Louvre.  To reach the Louvre from the Conciergerie, turn left out of the Conciergerie and continue left again staying on the Ile de la Cité until you come to an “old” looking bridge on your right.  This is the Pont Neuf, or new bridge, actually one of the oldest bridges in Paris.

Cross the bridge, again, taking time to enjoy the views as you cross.  Then turn left and continue on.  The Louvre is on your right just near the next bridge (the Pont des Arts).  There are multiple entrances into the Louvre courtyards and its main entrance at the Pyramid.  If there is a queue at the Pyramid (and there may well be), never fear.  There are far less crowded entrances if you have a Museum Pass at the Museum Pass/Group Entrance in the Pavilion Richelieu (under the arches between the Pyramid and the rue de Rivoli) or at the underground Mall entrance (accessed via the Carrousel de Louvre shopping mall on rue de Rivoli). Unless you have a Museum or Paris Pass you must book a timed entry ticket for the Louvre.

Are you planning a trip to France? My France Travel Planning Facebook group is a vibrant and friendly group where you can ask questions, learn from others and get great advice. You can join here >>

It’s easy to spend more than a day in the Louvre, so with only a one day visit to Paris having a plan to make the most of your visit to the Louvre is key.  Study your guidebook well (there are some good choices available at the end of this post) and then grab an English language Information Guide at the information desk under the Pyramid.  You will need to check your bag if it is larger than a small handbag/purse.

Most visitors will spend about 2hours on a basic tour of the Louvre regardless of whether you are on a 1 day Paris itinerary or are staying longer.  Adjust your time according to your level of interest (or the weather).  Allow a little extra time if you choose to eat in one of the museum cafés or shop at the Louvre shop.

Leave the Louvre via the Pyramid exit and cross the road to enter the Tuileries garden.  The Tuileries is a perfect spot to do some people watching and enjoy a little picnic late lunch or afternoon tea (choose something to take away from one of the Louvre cafés or buy something sweet across the road at Angelina’s on rue de Rivoli.

From the Tuileries it’s a short Metro trip to the Trocadero to enjoy the views of the Eiffel Tower before you go up.  Again, avoid the worst of the queues by purchasing a skip the queue ticket.

Purchase your Eiffel Tower skip the line ticket here >>

What to buy on a one day visit to Paris

Unless you take my Paris one day tour shopping itinerary below, you won’t have much opportunity for shopping on this itinerary unfortunately.  While there are plenty of souvenir shops and stands at all the places on my itinerary, I’m suggesting you pass on them.  Instead, the Louvre has a lovely shop with a range of goods from a Euro or so up to thousands of Euros for some of the very special pieces.

On rue de Rivoli just opposite the Tuileries you can choose from a range of food items at Angelina’s (perfect for a snack on the way home at the end of the day) or just along the street from Angelina’s is a large book shop with an excellent range of English books about Paris and French culture.

Where to eat when you visit Paris in one day

Again, there are plenty of food choices on this itinerary.  Some are good, some are terrible.  For reliable food at a reasonable price buy something at a bakery or patisserie and picnic, or eat at the Louvre.  There are plenty of fast food options around Notre Dame and Ste Chapelle. Just don’t expect them to be particularly cheap or particularly French. My Ultimate Paris Address Book ebook also features a range of restaurants in this part of Paris. You can pick up your copy here >>

One day Paris itinerary with children

Paris is an easy destination with little ones and my basic one day trip to Paris is easily adapted to accommodate children.

Rather than starting at Notre Dame I would start at the Eiffel Tower, then take the bateaux mouches down to Notre Dame.  It’s a fun, relaxing way to visit Paris in a day.  If your children are a little older and are interested in animals, dinosaurs and science, stay on the bateau mouche past Notre Dame and go to the Natural History Museum.

There are a lot of animals preserved in jars, which younger children may find a bit confronting.  We took MissG when she was six without any problems though.

With this option, skip the Conciergerie and save some time by making your Ste Chapelle visit a little shorter. Then end your day with a short visit to the Louvre and a longer visit to the Tuileries for a run around

Book you bateaux mouches tickets here >>

One day in Paris:  itinerary for the art lover

This itinerary can easily be adapted for the art lover even if you only have one day to spend in Paris.  Forget everything else except the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay.  Spend half a day in each.

Or for a really special day, visit Ste Chapelle (it really is a work of art), the Louvre and the Orsay.  If you have the option of visiting Paris on a day where these are open late you can spend a very enjoyable long day indulging your passion.  If more modern art is your thing, pick one out of the Orsay and the Louvre, and then spend the rest of your day at the Pompidou Centre (not far from the Louvre, so works best if you pass on the Orsay).

Book your Paris Museum tickets here >>

One day Paris itinerary for the garden lover

Those who love gardens can still enjoy a day in Paris without spending all day travelling around town.  Instead of going to the Conciergerie, after you’ve been to St Chapelle cross the road and head down rue de Lutece.  At the end of the street on the left is the sweetest flower market and nursery (on Sundays this market is a bird market).

Obviously amend your time to accommodate a nice long visit to the Tuileries, or head north from the Tuileries and visit the gardens at the Palais Royale (only about 5minutes north of the Louvre).  Although they look like private gardens, they are open to the public and are truly lovely.

While it works better on a two day trip to Paris, if a visit to Giverny is a must do, and you only have one day in Paris, it is possible to visit Giverny as a one day trip from Paris.  Catch an early train from the Gare St Lazare to arrive at Giverny as close to opening time as possible.  When you board the navette (the little bus that takes you from the station to Giverny) pick up a timetable for your return.  Resist the temptation to spend ages in the gift shop (it’s terribly expensive apart from anything else) and enjoy your visit to the house and gardens.  Assuming the gardens are not too busy, you can possibly be back in Paris in the early to mid afternoon if you bypass the village.  Then resume your visit to Paris.  This itinerary works best if you travel independently rather than doing an organised trip.

One day Paris itinerary for the food lover

There are plenty of food options available on my one day itinerary for Paris, but not a lot of gourmet or special options.

Book a table at Angelina’s in advance and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea.  There are other nearby restaurant options in my Ultimate Paris Address Book ebook. You can buy your copy here >>

My other suggested food option is to plan the order of your day to be in the Eiffel Tower area at meal time (a late afternoon/early evening visit to the Tower, then dinner would work well for example).  A few blocks away from the Eiffel Tower are plenty of good French restaurants at reasonable prices in the rue St Dominique/rue Cler neighbourhood.  If you are interested in this option, I strongly suggest the Rick Steves Paris guide.  Rick Steves’ Paris itinerary covers the rue Cler neighbourhood in some detail:

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For a very special Paris meal, book a table at Jules Verne at the Eiffel Tower (needs to be booked months in advance), or try Atelier de Joel Robuchon in the nearby 6th arrondissement.

While my 1 day trip to Paris itinerary is focussed on sightseeing, and there are so many places to visit in one day, I know some people will just want to shop.  For a day or half day’s shopping in Paris as part of a one day trip to Paris, I’m suggesting staying on the Right Bank and either hit the Grands Magasins – Au Printemps and Galeries Lafayettes or the Marais.  The passages in the area north of the Louvre heading up as far as Boulevarde Haussman have some interesting small shops and make a good alternative to the Marais if it is raining.  The Grands Magasins are definitely your best bet if you want to shop in Paris on a Sunday.

If you are staying in Paris for longer, you can read my 3 day Paris itinerary here >>

Find my recommended guidebooks for France here >>

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One Day In Paris: Itinerary For An Epic Day In Paris In 2024

Paris is a captivating city, densely packed with things to see and do – but with so much choice, how can you choose what to do with only one day in Paris?  This article is a guide to how to make the most of a short amount of time, such as a day trip to Paris or a very short stay.

Maybe you live not far from Paris (like me) and are considering a day trip there; maybe you’re travelling elsewhere in Europe and want to add Paris to your itinerary. Or maybe you’re stopping over in Paris on the way to somewhere else entirely. Whatever your scenario, this itinerary will help you make the most of Paris in one day.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

Can you explore everything in Paris in One day?

If you don’t have much time to spend in Paris, and especially if you’re planning a first-time visit to Paris , you may be wondering if it is possible to see it all in one day.

I’ll start by laying it out plainly: no you definitely can’t see everything in just one day in Paris. The capital of France is a big city with a lot of sights, varied architecture, plenty of museums, great restaurants and so many gorgeous streets to wander. You could easily stay a week or two and still not have seen everything, so you definitely can’t see it all in one day in Paris!

So does this mean that you shouldn’t bother going to Paris if you only have a short amount of time?  No! 

I don’t accept the view that if you can’t spend x amount of time in a place in order to see everything you shouldn’t go. Sure, a week or two or three in Paris would be much better than one day in Paris, but equally, one day in Paris is better than no days in Paris!  My view is that it is worth going to Paris even if you only have one day (or any small amount of time) because whatever you can experience in that time is likely to be wonderful!

However, you should accept that you won’t see it all and you should make a plan to maximise the time you do have, specifically to cover the key things and themes that are unique to Paris. Also, be aware that it’s unlikely you could see the major sights and get o ff the beaten path in Paris in one day.

About This Itinerary For One Day In Paris

Living in London, Paris is relatively easy and quick for me to get to, and I have done lots of short trips there, most recently as a solo traveller in Paris . My trips have included four day trips, where I went there and back without staying overnight, and one overnight stay of just 24 hours in Paris (on my way to the Luxembourg Christmas Markets )– and I loved every minute of all of these short trips!

This itinerary is based on a combination of the day trips in Paris I have taken.

There’s a lot in this itinerary – but that is because this is about maximising your day. However, to stop it from feeling like a mad rush, I’ve built plenty of time into the itinerary, so if you want to linger in some places, that’s fine; you can still do everything else.

For the timing of daylight hours, I have assumed you will visit Paris in Spring or Autumn (both lovely times of year to see Paris, after all) when the sun sets around 8 pm. If you go in Summer or Winter, you will need to adjust for different daylight hours.  For example, in winter the sun sets so much earlier that you’ll want to start earlier and finish earlier to catch the sunset.

Now, it’s worth noting: some people get disappointed by Paris, driven, I believe, by having unrealistically high expectations of the city. So if this is your first time in Paris, consider this post I wrote on Paris Syndrome and how to avoid disappointment in Paris .

One Day In Paris: Itinerary – In a Nutshell

In my opinion, there are a number of key things you’ll want to experience in Paris, no matter how long you are there, including the many famous landmarks (old and new), the Seine, world class art and French food. So the question is, how to fit them into 24 hours? Well, I’ve done the planning for you…

Here are the highlights of my itinerary for one glorious day in Paris:

The Eiffel Tower

• The Seine: a trip on a Batobus Paris boat
• Notre-Dame Cathedral

Arc de Triomphe

Sacré-cœur & montmartre, musee de l’orangerie.

• Pompidou Centre
• Classic French Cuisine

One Day In Paris: Itinerary – In Detail

Here’s my perfect itinerary for how to experience the best of Paris in one day.

Start relatively early, for example 9:30 am, to make the most of your day.

The Eiffel Tower is normally on the list for people visiting Paris because it is so iconic, you won’t be able to resist seeing it.

However, if you are only in Paris for a day, I don’t recommend you go up the tower.  There are queues and it takes a long time; you will spend a lot of your precious single day in Paris here if you go up the tower.  And, frankly, there are better views of Paris elsewhere because the view of Paris from the Eiffel Tower doesn’t have the Eiffel Tower in it !

Instead, you can wander the Champ De Mars gardens in which it is located.  If you are interested in photography, there are some good locations from which to capture the tower frames by trees and buildings on the side streets off Avenue de la Bourdonnais: Avenue Silvestre de Sacy and Rue de l’Universite .  

If you’re in Paris in Spring , Champ De Mars is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Paris .

However, if it is your dream, of course, you should book a ticket to go up the Eiffel Tower – you should always try to do things you’ve longed for. 

If you go this route, dress appropriately, because it can be windy up there even in summer, and freezing if you’re visiting Paris in winter . You’ll also need to adjust the rest of this itinerary if you do go up the tower because you’ll need 2-3 hours for that.

At around 10:30, travel to Musee de l’Orangerie (~30 minutes). You can take the Metro from Champ de Mars or Pont de I’Arme to Invalides and then cross the Seine over Pont de la Concorde. When crossing the bridge, enjoy the view to the left of Pont Alexandre III and the Grand Palais, and you’ll pass Place De La Concord, a busy intersection with an Egyptian obelisk in the centre. Alternatively, you could get the hop-on-hop-off Batobus river cruise from the Eifel Tower to the Musée d’Orsay, but this will likely take longer.

I’m suggesting an hour in Musee de l’Orangerie, but if you are short of time (or not so keen on art), you could be in and out within 15 minutes without being disrespectful, as the main exhibit is simply the two rooms with Waterlilies in.

If you don’t spend an hour in the Musée de l’Orangerie , you could wander eastwards towards the Louvre to admire its architecture from the outside (I don’t recommend going inside the Louvre, as its so big, it would require half of your day, and then you wouldn’t be able to see as much else).

Seine River tour

At around midday, start your Seine River tour .  

In many cities, the river is the life of the city; and in Paris, the Seine is no exception. Lining the river are some stunning examples of Paris architecture: The Eiffel Tower, the Grand and Petit Palais, the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay and the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Crossing the river are 37 bridges, including the famous Pont Neuf.

There are various boat tours on the Seine, but I recommend the hop-on-hop-off Batobus , which gives you flexibility about where you get on and off and how long you spend on the boat.

With this itinerary, the best place to get on the Batobus is across the river at the Musée d’Orsay stop. This is because from here the boats head east.  Boats depart every 25 minutes and it takes around 2 hours to do the whole tour.  However, my recommendation is to go from Musée d’Orsay to Hotel de Ville and get off there, rather than doing the full loop. 

Taking this route you will see the best parts of the river once, including passing by the famous Gothic cathedral, Notre Dame and Île de la Cité .

Pompidou Centre & Le Georges

From the Batobus boat stop at Hotel de Ville , you can walk to the Pompidou Centre, which takes around 15 minutes. The Pompidou Centre is famous for its unusual architecture which has pipeworks etc on the exterior of the building. It is also an art gallery

Le Georges restaurant is on the top floor of this iconoclastic building. If you don’t appreciate the building itself, that’s OK because you will undoubtedly appreciate the view from the top floor restaurant and galleries.

From the top floor, you can see to Sacre-Coeur and the Eiffel Tower on one side and to the Gothic Tour Saint-Jacques on the other side. The food is also amazing: when I went, I had icy strawberry and tomato soup and a Spritz Hugo and it was divine.

once you’ve enjoyed your lunch, around 15:30, travel to Anvers metro station via Metro line 4 (~30 minutes). Coming out of this station, take a moment to notice the Art Nouveau-style entrance.  You’re now in prime Belle Epoque territory.

I’ve allowed plenty of time for you to take it easy and explore Montmartre at a leisurely pace. It’s such a lovely area and wandering around it is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris for couples (and also lovely for non-couples).

You can follow my free self-guided walking tour of Montmartre , which will start with the Sacré -Cœur Basilica and also covers Place du Tertre , a leafy square normally packed with artists and a great place to people-watch – although, as you’d expect, the prices at cafes here are high.

Other highlights of Montmartre (all covered in my walking tour) include:

• La Maison Rose
• Rue de l’Abreuvoir
• Musée de Montmartre
• Moulin de la Galette
• Le Consulat
• Escalier du Calvaire
• Wall of Love
• Cimetiere de Montmartre
• Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet

While you’re in the neighbourhood, you might be tempted to stroll all the way down the hill to take a look at the famous Moulin Rouge on Boulevard de Clichy (but be warned: it’s a bit seedy around there!).

Around 18:00, travel to the Arc de Triomphe (which will take ~15 minutes). I’ll assume you make it as far as Pigalle during your explorations of Montmartre, from where you can catch metro line 2 to Charles de Gaulle, which is near the Arc de Triomphe.

The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch built in 1836 to commemorate those who died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. As well as admiring the arch from the outside, you can also go up into the arch to the viewing platform on top.  This is a wonderful place from which to view Paris and I highly recommend going at sunset, so you can see the sunset over Paris and watch the lights come on: it is really special.

From the Arc de Triomphe viewing platform , you can look down the 12 straight boulevards that go out from Place Charles de Gaulle, including the one that goes to La Defense, and the famous Champs Elysee. And of course, you’ll have a brilliant view of the Eiffel Tower, which puts on quite the light display at night. If you have time, you could check out Champs Elysee before you go up the arch.  

I really love this activity – so much so that I also suggested this in my i tinerary for 4 days in Paris !

Top tip: check the sunset times for the day you are going and plan your visit around that.

Around 20:30, you’ll probably be getting hungry for dinner. I have a few options to suggest, depending on your budget and plans for the night.

High-End Restaurant

L’Oiseau Blanc is a stunning top floor restaurant in the five star Peninsula Paris Hotel , which is pretty close to the Arc De Triomphe. It has views over the Paris rooftops to the  Eiffel Tower and both the food and service are exquisite.

Of course, an experience in a restaurant like this like this doesn’t come cheap, but if your budget stretches to it, this could be a spectacular way to end your one day in Paris.

Classic Brasserie

A cheaper, but quintessentially Parisian option would be to dine at a classic French Brasserie. I have recommendation for this, also: Les Philosophes (~20 minutes from the Arc De Triomphe, via metro line 1).

There are lots of great places to eat in Paris, but I am recommending Les Philosophes for its authentic Frenchness. It is a classic and high-quality brasserie that both looks & feels perfect (cosy interior; wicker seats outside on the street) – but also offers high quality traditional French food. I can highly recommend the onion soup and the crème brûlée.

Pre-Train Dining

A third option is available for those who are catching the Eurostar back to London (or indeed a train elsewhere) after their exciting day in Paris, as I have many times.

Opposite Gare Du Nord is Terminus Nord , an Art Deco-inspired brasserie that offers a solid French menu conveniently close to where you’ll be checking in for your train. I especially enjoyed the Crêpes Suzette, which was perfectly balanced: a little bitterness form the orange and brandy, but deliciously sweet. What a wonderful taste to have linger as you depart Paris!

Map: One Day In Paris

Here’s a map of the main attractions and optional detours you can take with my Paris in one day itinerary.

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

Where To Stay For ONe Day In Paris

As mentioned, I have done day trips to Paris, without staying over, but I have also taken some short trips where I stay just one night. If you need a place to stay in Paris after exploring the city, I can recommend these hotels, all of which I have stayed in myself recently:

• 3-star: the La Finca Hôtel & Spa (formerly called the Hotel Auberge Flora), which is close to the Bastille area. The rooms are small but it is bright and comfortable and has everything you need. I liked the cheerful bar downstairs and they offer a simple, affordable breakfast in the morning
• 4-star: the Terrass Hot el is very comfortable and located on the edge of Montmartre, making it easy to explore that charming neighbourhood on foot. It also has some wonderful views across Paris to the Eiffel Tower
• 4-star : Hôtel Diva Opéra  is a boutique 4-star hotel in Fauberg-Montmartre , which is really central, making is a great place to stay if you want easy access to places like the Grands Magasins of Boulevard Haussman and some of the best covered passages in Paris
• 5-star : the Hotel Regina Louvre , which is a luxury hotel next to the Louvre. It is old-school, very luxurious and has some lovely Art Nouveau design features. Some rooms have a view of the Eiffel Tower, which is pretty special. I only stayed here one night only, but it was a real treat – I loved it!

For more Paris hotel recommendations, read my post on the best place to stay in Paris for first-timers .

The Last Word

I hope you enjoy your one day in Paris!

It is a wonderful city, one of my favourite cities that I have visited anywhere in the world and one that continues to delight me more than 20 years after I first visited it. If you feel like there’s too much in Paris for one day only, consider 2 days in Paris or even 4 days in Paris .

And if you are going to Paris in the winter months, do check out my guide to what to do in Paris in winter and my review of the best Paris Christmas Markets .

Finally, if you are considering solo to Paris alone, I have a detailed guide to solo travel in Paris , full of tips and suggestions that might help you plan.

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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3 thoughts on “one day in paris: itinerary for an epic day in paris in 2024”.

Martha, this is a brilliant itinerary and might be exactly what I am looking for! Thank you so much for sharing it with me!

Thanks for your feedback! I’m so glad it is helpful! There’s a lot in the itinerary, so it will be a busy day, but you’ll get to see so much of the city :-). When are you going to Paris?

The point about one day being better than no days vibes with me Martha. Too many travelers skip spots all together for fear of not having enough time to really see and feel the spot. One can experience a great deal in 12 hours or more IF travelers put away the phone for a bit and stop dawdling around. This secret seems lost on most because people want to play around with phones instead of focusing mindfully on their travels. Great 1 day Paris breakdown here. Thanks for sharing with us.

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Home > Paris Itineraries > One Day in Paris Itinerary – How to Fall in Love with Paris in One Day!

One Day in Paris Itinerary – How to Fall in Love with Paris in One Day!

How to spend a day in paris.

Planning on spending just one day in Paris? Sure, it’s not very long. Trying to see the best of Paris in one day is no easy task: the French capital is an enormous, layered, and deeply complex city with something interesting to visit in every district of Paris . With a little advance planning, though, you’ll be surprised at just how many Paris highlights and top monuments you can cover with just 1 day in Paris!

In this post, we’re going to show you how to spend a day in Paris. Being locals in Paris, we know the city well, and we can help you to find the perfect plan for Paris in a day. This tried-and-true Paris one-day itinerary is one that we’ve walked ourselves many times with friends visiting us, and it goes through well-known sights like Notre Dame or the Eiffel Tower to some of our favorite sights in Paris.

We’ve put together this guide to what to see in Paris for a day to help ensure that you fall in love with this magnificent city – and hopefully, make sure that you leave already scheming about how you can return.

Are You Planning a Trip to Paris Last Minute?

If you are booking a last-minute trip to Paris, we’ve got you covered! Below are our must-guides, top tours, hotels, and more:

» Plan:  Paris Travel Planner ; Paris Arrondissements Guide ; Check out the  best Paris Metro tickets for tourists

» Book your flight tickets with  Omio ; book your train tickets with  Omio

Book your transfer from the airport to the city with Welcome Pickups .

» Where to Stay:  Best Districts to Stay in Paris

• Le Pavillon de la Reine  (historical 5-star hotel in Le Marais)
• Hotel La Comtesse  (mid-range hotel with Eiffel Tower view from all the rooms!)
• Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne (super central 4-star hotel near the Louvre)

» Top-Rated Paris Tours & Tickets:

• Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Eiffel Tower Summit Access Ticket
• Seine River Night Cruise
• Catacombs Skip-the-line tour with VIP access to restricted areas

Want skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Paris?  Get your hands on a  Paris Museum Pass !

» Don’t leave without travel insurance!  Compare plans and prices amongst the world’s leading programs with  Travel Insurance Master

1 Day in Paris Itinerary – Our Proposal for Paris in a Day

This one-day in Paris itinerary is  not  a leisurely itinerary – that’s just not an option when you visit Paris in 1 day – so be sure to have a good breakfast and wear your better walking shoes!

Here’s a quick overview of what this plan has you doing during 1 day in Paris, for quick reference:

• Notre Dame (from outside)
• Cité and Sainte Chapelle
• A stroll along the Seine
• The Latin Quarter
• Saint-Germain-des-Près
• Climb up the Eiffel Tower
• Night Seine River Cruise with Dinner

Now, let’s see how that looks in our detailed guide to what to see in Paris in one day.

Related Articles

One Day In Paris: Things to Do in Paris in One Day

Cité | tuileries garden | the latin quarter | saint-germain-des-prés | eiffel tower.

Below is a detailed guide to how to spend a day in Paris in the order that makes the most sense in terms of getting around and minimizing transport. Ideally, you’ll start this 1-day Paris itinerary as soon as possible and keep going until you’ve seen everything!

Click here to view this one day in Paris map on Google

1. START AT NOTRE DAME

What better spot to start your one day in Paris than Notre Dame, one of the most recognizable structures in the city?

Admire the imposing Gothic structure of Notre Dame Cathedral from the outside. Built in the 13th century, this magnificent edifice has recently survived a devastating fire, yet she is still standing proudly as the symbol of the city.

Despite Notre Dame currently being closed, you can still admire its main façade with the huge rose window, which is a dedication to Our Lady of Paris. The 28 sculptures below Notre Dame represent the kings of Judah and Israel, the ancestors of Christ, and just like the real King, they lost their heads during the French Revolution!

2. EXPLORE ILE DE LA CITÉ (AND VISIT THE SAINTE CHAPELLE)

Once the epicenter of political, religious, and social life, it’s on Ile-de-la-Cité , the small island in the middle of the Seine River. It is here where the first Royal Palace stood, as well as the city’s main religious and institutional buildings.  As such, it is not surprising that some of the best things to do in Paris in one day are located in Ile-de-la-Cité.

From Notre Dame, enjoy a short stroll through the charming Flower Market to the Sainte Chapelle. Built in the 13th century by King Saint Louis, 80% of the walls are covered by remarkable colored glass windows; it is amazing!

A visit to the Sainte Chapelle does not take too much time, and we definitely recommend it as long as you buy skip-the-line tickets in advance   – you don’t want to waste half of your 1 day in Paris itinerary waiting in line!

Your last stop is to the Conciergerie , built as a medieval palace but most famous as the prison and last home of Queen Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution.

If you’re making a good time, visiting the Conciergerie is also highly recommended but again, be sure to buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance to ensure that you don’t waste a moment of your 1-day trip to Paris by standing in line.

TIP: Save time and money with this skip-the-line combo ticket Sainte Chapelle + Conciergerie !

3. WALK ALONG THE SEINE TO THE LOUVRE AND THE TUILERIES GARDEN

This Paris itinerary 1 day continues west on the Seine’s Right Bank. It takes a little under half an hour to stroll from Cité to the Tuileries Gardens, but there’s plenty to admire along the way: definitely be sure to admire the Pont Neuf (the oldest bridge in Paris), Pont des Arts , and Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower on the Left Bank.

The Louvre Palace  was initially built as a royal palace for the Kings of France until King Louis XIV decided to move with his court to Versailles . Today  the   Louvre Museum  is one of the world’s most visited museums and certainly one of the most iconic places to see in Paris. While this one-day itinerary Paris does not consider a visit to the Louvre Museum, it is well worth getting close to admire the Louvre Pyramid , one of the favorite photo spots in Paris . 

4. STROLL ALONG THE TUILERIES GARDEN

Then you can stroll around the Tuileries Garden , one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris and also the oldest. Designed by André Le Notre, the landscape designer who also designed the Gardens of Versailles , it was the Tuileries Palace’s backyard until this was burned by the Paris Commune in 1871. Stop for a coffee in the sun and perhaps a quick eat at one of the guinguettes (food & drinks kiosks) inside the park.

5. EXPLORE THE LATIN QUARTER

At Palais Royal /Musée du Louvre metro station, you can take the metro Line 7 to the Latin Quarter and stop at Place Monge station.

While this area in the fifth Arrondissement is known as the center of university life in Paris, it’s also where Lutetia – Roman Paris (IC AD) was born. It is believed that Lutetia’s Roman Forum, the center of religious and civil life during the Roman times, was located at current rue Soufflot, while today’s rue Saint Jacques was one of the two main streets in Roman times.

Today, it is possible to visit the Arènes de Lutèce for free, a Roman theatre that was constructed in the 1st century AD and was where people came to watch gladiatorial combats. In the area, there are also the Roman Baths , today part of the Cluny Museum, but they can be seen from Boulevard Saint Michel without entering the museum.

6. DUCK INSIDE THE PANTHÉON

The Panthéon is a church-turned-temple dedicated to “France’s Grands Hommes.” These eminent personalities who shaped France’s national identity are interred in the crypt, and a permanent exhibition gives details about their lives and works. If you decide to visit the Panthéon (paid entrance), you will also see Foucault’s Pendulum , with which Léon Foucault demonstrated the Earth’s rotation.

The Pantheon sits inside the beautiful Place du Panthéon , and while you’re there, be sure to take a few moments to admire the square itself, the Church Saint Étienne du Mont and the view over the Luxembourg Gardens from rue Soufflot.

7. OR PAY A VISIT TO PLACE DE LA CONTRESCARPE

If you are not that interested in monuments, pay a visit to Place de la Contrescarpe instead. This lively square may be touristy, but it’s also beautiful, bustling, and worth stopping by during your Paris one-day trip.

This square is crossed by Rue Mouffetard , a street food where you can find everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and wine. Fans of Ernest Hemingway may want to have a look at 74 Rue Cardinal Lemoine , one of the streets ending at Place de la Contrescarpe, where the Hemingways rented their first apartment in Paris.

It’s not all hard work and sightseeing, you know. By now, you must be hungry, and there are plenty of bistros and restaurants at the square or nearby to taste good French food . We recommend doing your research in advance to avoid wasting time looking for a good place to eat. We have some favorite restaurants in the Latin Quarter , but there are many more.

8. MAKE YOUR WAY TO SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRÉS

After lunch, this one-day Paris itinerary takes you to Saint-Germain-des-Prés , one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Paris . This is a gorgeous area to explore in the sixth Arrondissement , with its cobbled streets, art galleries, and pretty cafes. You can have a quick look at Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church , the beating heart of this neighborhood. Completed in 558, this beautiful church is the only remaining Romanesque building in Paris.

Then, in streets like Rue de Buci, on the other side of Boulevard Saint-Germain, there are plenty of nice cafés and bars well worth a stop for a late coffee or an early aperitif with some people watching.

9. CLIMB UP THE EIFFEL TOWER

Before sunset, head to  Champ de Mars  to climb up   the Eiffel Tower ,  the most iconic monument of Paris. Upstairs, there’s a permanent exhibition to learn about its history, plus you have an amazing view of Paris from above.

This is a fantastic place to watch the sunset in Paris, but be sure to secure the date and time slot to visit the Eiffel Tower asap, as tickets to the summit sold out pretty fast.

The Eiffel Tower website sells tickets up to 2 months in advance, and they are not refundable. With Get Your Guide , instead, you can book your Eiffel Tower summit tickets more than two months in advance, and is possible to cancel and get a full refund if there’s any problem.

10. END YOUR ONE DAY IN PARIS WITH A SEINE RIVER NIGHT CRUISE WITH DINNER

After your Eiffel Tower experience, end your one-day in Paris itinerary in style with a night cruise with dinner down the Seine River .   It’s a nice way to see Paris from the water, and prices for the river cruises are pretty good value. 

Most of the boat tours start at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, and you will be spoilt for choice; just make sure to check all the Seine Boat Tour options and book your favorite one beforehand.

During this Seine cruise, you will see many of the most famous Paris landmarks , magically illuminated, including the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, the Conciergerie, and more, while having a typical French dinner and a glass of champagne.

And there you have it, a comprehensive itinerary for Paris in 1 day. Follow this Paris in-a-day itinerary step by step, or change it up to suit your own individual preferences.

Want to See the Louvre Museum During your Paris 1-day Itinerary?

If you’ve long dreamed of visiting the Louvre Museum , you should absolutely go! Structuring a Paris in one day visit is highly personal, so if that’s the sight you can’t live without, go ahead and swap a visit to the Louvre Museum for strolling the Latin Quarter. After the Louvre, head to Saint-Germain-des-Près and follow the rest of the Paris one-day itinerary.

For the Louvre visit, and considering that you only have one day in Paris, we suggest limiting your visit to 2 hours or less. You can book this top-rated Louvre Highlights guided tour with pre-reserved tickets, which lasts 2 hours, and you are sure not to get lost amongst paintings and sculptures. If you prefer a self-guided tour, this article shows how to get the most out of the Louvre in 2 hours or less.

What About a Walking Tour for Your Paris One-day Itinerary?

If you’d prefer to have a guide for all or part of your one day in Paris, who can share with you some of the history of this city as well as more local knowledge and insights, then we can recommend this  Paris Highlights tour . This tour is a great way to see Paris in a short amount of time: do more in six hours than most people do in three days with this fun-filled tour!

Another alternative is to book this 2.5-hour Cité Walking tour for a great introduction to Paris and its medieval monuments. Then, you can follow the rest of the 1-day Paris itinerary at your own pace.

How to Get from and to the Airports of Paris

With only one day in Paris, you don’t want to waste time on things like transportation. Our personal recommendation is to pre-book a Welcome Pickups transfer , a reliable and top-rated private service. Your driver will wait for you outside of the arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name, plus a bottle of water and a map of the city. Welcome Pickups have introduced strict safety protocols to protect drivers and guests.

Where to Stay in Paris for a Day

You may or not be spending the night in Paris during your short visit, but just in case, here are some tips for finding the perfect accommodation for your night in Paris.

We recommend Booking.com  for booking your hotel in Paris. They have a wide variety of accommodation of all kinds and good rates. In addition, they propose the option to cancel for free, most of the time up to 24 hours.

WAKE UP WITH AN EIFFEL TOWER VIEW

If you have the budget, why not treat yourself to the pleasure of waking up at an amazing hotel with an Eiffel Tower view ? Some of the best hotels in Paris also come with awesome views of the Eiffel Tower, especially beautiful during its night show! – Check out the best hotels with Eiffel Tower Views

HOTELS AT LE MARAIS IN PARIS 3

Le Marais is a central neighborhood in the Seine’s Right Bank, perfect to set your base in Paris, especially if you are visiting Paris for the first time. It is beautiful, well connected by the metro, and with many beautiful cafes and restaurant options – Click here for the best hotels in Le Marais

• Hotel de Josephine de Bonaparte (charming 4-star hotel inspired by Napoléon’s wife)
• Hotel France Louvre (mid-range hotel in a typical Haussmanian style)

HOTELS AT THE LATIN QUARTER

If you prefer to stay in the Left Bank, the Latin Quarter is also a good option, usually with less expensive options. Stay close to the Luxembourg Gardens or the Jardin des Plantes but also to lively areas like rue du Mouffetard or the Sorbonne, with many bars and restaurants nearby – Click here for the best hotels in the Latin Quarter

• Hotel La Lanterne (4-star hotel located between Notre Dame and Luxembourg Gardens)
• Observatoire Luxembourg (4-star hotel near the Luxembourg Gardens)

Getting Around Paris in 1 Day

We’ve structured this guide to visiting Paris in one day to be extremely walkable, and most of the time, you shouldn’t need any transportation other than your two feet to navigate Paris.

We recommend, however, reading our Metro of Paris quick guide to get familiar with the metro system in Paris as there are a couple of times in this Paris 1-day itinerary where the metro comes in handy. For such a short trip and the stops considered, it is not necessary to buy a special metro pass, and you will be fine with single metro tickets.

Have a look at our other Paris Itineraries

• 2 days in Paris Itinerary
• 3 days in Paris Itinerary
• 4 days in Paris Itinerary
• 5 days in Paris Itinerary
• 6 days in Paris Itinerary
• 7 days in Paris Itinerary

Click here to read more Paris Itineraries

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

Paris in 1 Day – Explore Paris in 24 Hours with this Ultimate 1 Day Itinerary

Things to do in Paris Paris Travel Guide Paris Itineraries 1 Day Paris Itinerary

If all you have is 1 day in Paris, then you should plan your itinerary carefully to ensure you get the most out of your limited stay. Peruse our 1-day itinerary in Paris that consists of all the major landmarks that quintessentially define Paris!

1 Day in Paris - How To Spend Your Day

• Morning in Paris :   Eiffel Tower
• Afternoon in Paris : Sightseeing Seine River Cruise, Louvre
• Evening in Paris :  Arc De Triomphe & Champs-Élysées

Paris In 1 Day - Detailed Itinerary

Explore the best of paris in 1 day.

Eiffel Tower

Top 5 Paris Attractions

Historic Landmark

Walking Tours

Begin your 1-day trip to Paris at the city's most iconic landmark: the symbol of love: the Eiffel Tower. This attraction needs no introduction. It is recognized as a defining moment of the industrial era in the country. Be one among the 7 million visitors that frequent this must-visit landmark a year! Peruse your Eiffel Tower tickets options and book them before visiting.

• The Eiffel Tower displays a marvellous view during the day as well as the night. Make sure to visit both these times for a different experience.
• It is advisable to take the stairs to cut down on the long waiting queues at the elevator.
• Consider reserving a prepaid ticket to skip the tiring ticket line.
• Top 12 Eiffel Tower Tips You Should Know
• After It’s Longest Closure Since WWII, The Eiffel Tower Has Finally Reopened
• Discover the Best Views of Eiffel Tower
• Eiffel Tower Stairs vs Lifts | Choosing the Better Option
• Everything You Need to Know About the Secret Eiffel Tower Apartment
• Understanding the History of Eiffel Tower
• Your Ultimate Guide to Planning the Perfect Eiffel Tower Visit
• Top 4 Eiffel Tower Guided Tours 2022

Like all tourist attractions, the Eiffel tower is a tourist hot spot too. By scheduling your visit early in the morning, you can beat the crowds and get unfettered access to the beauty of the Eiffel tower.

Restaurant Recommendations

12 Eiffel Tower Tips You Must Know Before Visiting

Cruising and strolling about paris.

Seine Sightseeing Cruise

Sightseeing Seine River Cruise

Top Seine River Cruises

Family Friendly

Followed by a visit to the Eiffel Tower, head to the foot of the attraction, where your Seine River Cruise will commence. Enjoy an hour-long cruise upon the iconic river Seine that takes you past the city's iconic landmarks, like Assemblee Nationale, Musee d'Orsay, Institut de France, Pantheon, Cite de la Mode, Hotel de Ville, Notre Dame, Conciergerie, and more. Whether you sit indoors or outdoors, you're in for a real treat. Check out the many Seine River Sightseeing tickets options and book your tickets in advance to save time and energy.

• Opt for the audio guide provided in the tour for better understanding.
• Choose a seat at the front if you wish to capture the beauty within your camera.
• Keep in mind that the narration and commentaries are only conducted downstairs.
• Check Out The Best Seine River Cruises In Paris
• Hop On & Hop Off River Seine With The Popular Batobus Paris Cruise
• Discover Paris From the Seine With the Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise
• Experience The Perfect Night In The City of Lights With Paris Dinner Cruises

?? Local Travel Tip  ??  

Know your route. The cruise usually lasts around two hours and passes by some of Paris' most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Louvre Museum. Be sure to know which landmarks you want to see ahead of time so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Historic Monument

After a relaxing hour upon the water, head to the biggest and arguably most famous museum in the world - The Louvre Museum . Explore the extensive collection of artwork housed here at your own pace. Be it Leonardo da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa or Alexandros Antioch's Venus de Milo, there is much to peruse. The timeless glass pyramid is one of the most photographed monuments in Paris, and for good reason. Explore your Louvre ticket options here and book in advance.

• 2 PM is usually the rush hour at the Louvre, so if you wish to curb the crowds, consider swapping the Louvre with the Arc De Triomphe.
• Get a map of the museum beforehand for a rough idea of the exhibits you wish to explore.
• If you are not a fluent French speaker, we recommend picking up an audio guide.
• Top Rated Restaurants at Louvre Museum Paris
• What To Expect Inside Louvre Paris | A Detailed Guide
• Tried & Tested Ways To Skip The Lines at Louvre Museum
• Louvre Museum Paris Announces its Reopening Date
• Top 3 Louvre Guided Tours 2022
• All About The 4 Louvre Entrances | Which Louvre Museum Entrance Suits You Best
• What You Must See At The Louvre | Planning Your Visit To The Louvre
• The Only Guide You Need To Explore The Best of Louvre Museum Paris

?? Local Travel Tip  ??

Use the Passage Richelieu and Galerie du Carrousel entrances to enter the museum, as these are less crowded than the main Pyramid entrance.

Explore The Best of Louvre Museum Paris

Experience the must-see in paris, arc de triomphe.

Arc De Triomphe & Champs-Élysées

Iconic Square

Must-Visit Neighbourhood

Top 10 Paris Attractions

Your last stop for the day is the famous Arc de Triomphe , one of the top 10 attractions in Paris. Standing tall at the western end of the famous Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe honours those who fought valiantly and died during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. The arch With names of military soldiers engraved on its walls, the magnificent centrepiece is one of the biggest arches of the world.

• The Champs-Élysées sidewalks have many stores: from designer label goods to French souvenirs, you can buy anything here.
• You do not need to ride the bus or take a taxi at Champs-Élysées: most people prefer walking.
• Book tickets to the Arc de Triomphe ahead of time to cut the ticketing queues.
• Arc de Triomphe Reopens Post COVID-19 Lockdown

A Comprehensive Guide To Visiting Arc De Triomphe Paris

The admission to the Arc is free of charge for European Citizens under the age of 25 and also on certain days in a year, be sure to check their website before you visit.

1 Day in Paris Under €80

Sightseeing seine cruise, louvre museum.

Book your Paris Attractions tickets on Headout, and spend just €80 on your one day vacation in Paris! Hit up all the prime attractions in the city and save more while you explore more. Read on to see our detailed 1 day Paris Itinerary and learn more about visiting each of these attractions.

More Paris Itineraries

Have some more time to kill in Paris? That's alright, we've got other options for you. Check out our other itineraries for further inspiration:

• Weekend in Paris
• 3 Days in Paris
• 5 Days in Paris

The Ultimate Paris Trip Planner

Public transportation in paris.

For tourists in Paris, this is usually a big question: "What do I do about transportation in Paris?"

Paris is a large city with 20 arrondissements. The most ideal way to explore the city is, of course, by foot. But this is hardly ever the most ideal option.

Thankfully, Paris' elaborate public transportation which includes the metro, RER, buses, night buses, trams, and taxis, you can get around in the city with little to no trouble.

If you're in the city for a few days, we recommend you get T+ tickets (you can buy 10 at a go for a cheaper rate)

The Paris Travel Card (Paris Visite) is another good option, giving you unlimited access to the metro, RER, bus and tram networks.

Public Transportation in Paris 101

Where to stay in paris.

€ 50 - € 100 per night

• Elysées Union
• Elysées Ceramic
• Maxim Folies
• Hôtel Paris Vaugirard
• Hôtel Paris La Fayette

€ 100 - € 150 per night

• Hotel Best Western Anjou Lafayette
• Hôtel Du Bois Champs-Elysées
• Hotel Terminus Lyon

5 star hotels

• Hôtel Alfred Sommier
• La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris
• Maison Albar Hotels Le Pont-Neuf
• Maison Bréguet
• Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg

Boutique Hotels

• Résidence Charles Floquet
• Le 123 Sébastopol - Astotel
• La Chambre du Marais
• Hôtel de La Tamise - Esprit de France

More Tips on 1 Day in Paris

• Be cash-ready, but don't hoard – Most Parisian establishment accept cards for transactions for over €10, however you will need cash for smaller transactions and for other things like tipping and street shopping. Avoid carrying too much cash on you as it’s not safe, especially around tourist attractions like Eiffel Tower which is rife with pickpockets.
• A meal at the Eiffel Tower is true to its hype, and a must – When you have a meal at one of the restaurants in the Eiffel tower, you not only get access to the top of the tower but skip the line and enjoy exclusive elevator to the restaurants.
• Get a Paris pass, get free transport – The best way to use the metro is buy a 10-pack ticket or use the Paris Pass for free transport. If you are using a physical ticket make sure to keep it on you till you exit the station.
• The best sunset in Paris, is not from the Eiffel Tower – One of the best places to view Paris with the Eiffel Tower is from the Arc De Triomphe. Catch the sight of the city roads radiating from the monument and the Eiffel standing proud in the distance from the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe!
• Airbnbs should be your first choice – ourist accommodation has become a lucrative business and large organizations have started taking over Airbnbs in Paris. If you are looking for cheap and authentic stays, then opt to stay in an apartment with the locals, where you can be assured of a Parisian experience.
• Uber is cheaper – Than hailing private taxis in Paris. However, traffic will annoy you.
• Take advantage of the bakeries – The best thing about Paris is its bakeries or boulangeries, which serve fresh and delicious breads, cheeses and deli items. You can get a quick and filling meal for less than €5 and even eat it on the go.

20 Paris Travel Tips & Hacks | The Holy Grail For First Timers in Paris

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FAQs: Paris in 1 Day - Itinerary

Which area of paris should i choose accommodation in.

If you opt to live in a hotel in Arrondissements 1-9 (leaving aside 8 which is out of the way and can be expensive) - it'll help you save up on time and dime as you go around Paris. Although, bear in mind that a hotel in the neighbourhood of Louvre, the Marais, Latin Quarter, near the Eiffel Tower and near the Opera may be a little more expensive than others. But the high cost would be more than compensate by saving on cab expense.

What is the best time to visit Paris?

Fall, is the best time to visit Paris. Why, you ask? Well, with mild warm days and fresh nippy nights, Paris in fall is nothing short of heaven.

What is the best way to get around Paris?

Ideally, the best way to explore this beautiful city would be on foot. But since Paris is a huge city and it's easy to get lost in it, Paris's extensive public transport system will come to your aid, and save you the trouble!

How much are you generally expected to tip in Paris?

Restaurants usually add a service charge to your bills, but know that these don't reach your server. If you're happy with your meal, can tip 10% of your bill to the server. At cafes and bars, you can leave change for up to €1- €2 for the service.

What are some romantic things to do in Paris?

The 'City of Love' is all for and about romance, and there is no shortage of romantic things to do. From a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower to a dinner date on a Seine River Cruise - this place has everything you could ever need for a romantic day out, and more.

Smrithi Jacob

Is an avid reader, writer, and dreamer. She is constantly in pursuit of portals to travel to interesting places afar and likes to experience new cultures through her writing. Give her a city unheard of and a giant mug of coffee, and she’s good to go!

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How to Plan a Day Trip to Paris From London by Train

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A day trip to Paris from London is the perfect addition to a trip to England!  Thanks to the fast and efficient Eurostar train, it’s never been easier to visit Paris for a day. The train takes just two hours and 20 minutes.

Honestly, one day isn’t enough for Paris — ideally, you should spend as much time there as you can. I would gladly stay in Paris for weeks on end.

But not everyone has lots of extra time on their trip. So is it worth it if you only have one day to spare?

Absolutely — taking the train from London to Paris is always worth it. Even if all you have is one day, you can still make it the best day ever.

But if you’re only visiting Paris for one day, it’s best to plan your trip carefully so that you get as much out of it as you can. I’ve laid out all the steps you need to take and a suggested itinerary for someone visiting the French capital for the first time.

Let’s take a look at the itinerary! I want you to have the best day trip ever.

This post was most recently updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Paris Day Trip from London FAQ

The best way to get from London to Paris is by train . It goes from St. Pancras Station in London to Gare du Nord in Paris and takes about two hours and 20 minutes.

No matter what the weather is, you should dress neatly and wear shoes with good arch support. I usually wear jeans, black flats, a faux leather jacket, and a scarf.

Yes, you need your passport to go from London to Paris or vice versa. You will go through immigration. This goes for EU residents too, as due to Brexit the UK is no longer in the EU.

The perfect one-day itinerary in Paris includes exploring Notre-Dame and the Marais, having my favorite crepes and galettes in the world for lunch, visiting a gorgeous art museum, and seeing the Eiffel Tower up close.

Take the train from London to Paris

The train is far and away the best way to visit Paris for a day.  Eurostar trains depart from London’s St Pancras International Station, arrive at Paris’s Gare du Nord, and take about two hours and 20 minutes each way. You can buy Eurostar tickets here.

This is the Channel Tunnel train to Paris that goes underwater, beneath the English Channel. You go from the center of London to the center of Paris, plus the train journey is exceedingly pleasant.

The bus from London to Paris, by comparison, takes more than seven hours. Not worth it. Driving takes just under six hours if you don’t hit traffic.

You could fly from London to Paris, but I wouldn’t recommend it for a day trip. The flight only takes about one hour and 10 minutes, but you have to factor in getting to the airport 90 minutes before your flight, plus nearly all of the London airports and all Paris airports are located significantly outside the city and take a long time to get there.

(If you insist on flying to Paris for the day, I recommend either flying from London City Airport, which is centrally located though often very expensive, or flying from Heathrow and taking Heathrow Express from Paddington Station, which takes just 15 minutes.)

You need your passport when going from London to Paris, whether it’s by train, plane, or any other method. Even if you’re an EU citizen. Britain is neither in the Schengen Area nor the European Union anymore.

What time should you book the train for? If it were me, I would book a very early train to Paris and a very late train back to London. Perhaps even the last train. I would want to have an early start and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in Paris.

Book Eurostar train tickets from London to Paris here.

Alternatively, book a day tour from London to Paris via train here .

Be realistic about how much you can see on a Paris day trip from London.

One day is not enough for Paris, nor is it enough for everything you will personally want to see on a day trip to Paris from London. You can’t see the Louvre Museum and the Musée d’Orsay and go to the Eiffel Tower and go to Hemingway’s bars and walk around Montmartre and see the show at the Moulin Rouge.

In fact, I wouldn’t advise visiting more than one museum on a day trip to Paris.

I encourage you to choose one or two activities that are absolute musts and to plan your day around them. Supplement your day with activities that are close to your main priorities.

For example, if seeing Notre-Dame is a priority, you can easily fit in nearby destinations like Saint-Chappelle, Île Saint-Louis, Shakespeare and Company bookstore, and either the Marais or St. Germain des Prés.

If you want to spend part of your day in Montmartre, visit the Sacré Coeur, take a long walk down Rue Lepic, see Amélie’s Café des Deux Moulins, and walk down to the Opéra before checking out the rooftop terrace at Galeries-Lafayette.

And if you absolutely must visit the Louvre on your Paris day trip, take time to wander the Tuileries Gardens, visit the Palais Royal, and grab a hot chocolate at Angelina before window-shopping at the jewelry shops of Place Vendôme.

Include downtime in your itinerary.

It’s easy to spend a Paris day trip going from attraction to attraction, but I think the magic of Paris is found in the in-between moments. Sitting in a cafe with a coffee or a glass of red wine. Wandering cheese and pastry shops. Crossing the Seine over and over again with no destination in mind.

It doesn’t take a lot of effort to get of the beaten path — just go to a new neighborhood and wander in whatever destination pleases you.  I wrote a whole post about it.

This free time is where the Paris magic happens.

What to Do on a Day Trip to Paris

I always tell people to travel to the destination that makes their pulse race. And that goes for Paris, too. Prioritize the things that make you excited — the things that are most important to you personally, not the things that you think you should do. If you’re not into art, you don’t have to go to any museums! You can have a day trip to Paris from London without seeing the Mona Lisa .

If your favorite movie in high school was Moulin Rouge! or Amélie , spend time walking around Montmartre.

If you love Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, go to the Musée d’Orsay for the best collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world.

If you’re a die-hard Doors fan, go see Jim Morrison’s grave at Père Lachaise Cemetery.

Beyond that, I think how you should explore Paris depends on your travel experience level. If you’re an experienced traveler, you can handle exploring by metro on your own.

If you’d like something a bit easier, or if you or your companion have limited mobility, a hop-on-hop-off Paris bus tour is a great option for getting around. These bus tours take you from attraction to attraction and let Paris unfold in front of you.

Bonus: if you book the full day tour from London to Paris by train , they include a hop-on hop-off bus tour for free.

Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Paris

Book an early train from London to Paris and a late train back to London.

You have two options:

1) You can book London to Paris train tickets here.

2) You can book a day tour that includes train tickets and a hop-on-hop-off bus tour in Paris here.

From that point on, this is my idea of a nice Paris itinerary that takes in a lot of the central sights. It’s a particularly good option for a first-time Paris visitor.

Morning: Notre-Dame and Vicinity

Arrive at Gare du Nord and transfer to the metro line 4 toward Mairie de Montrouge. Get off at Saint Michel Notre-Dame.

Stop for a quick coffee if you’d like and go see Notre-Dame. (Unfortunately, Notre-Dame has been closed since the awful fire. But you can still admire it from the outside.)

Next, walk east to Île Saint-Louis and wander the streets. If you’re feeling really indulgent, get an ice cream at Berthillon ! This ice cream is fantastic and world-famous.

Head north toward the Hotel de Ville and explore the streets of the Marais, heading further upward. Stop by Pierre Hermé for macarons — they’re the best in the city. Just be sure to eat them the same day. Good macarons aren’t built to last.

12:00 PM: Lunch at Breizh Cafe in the Marais

Breizh Cafe is home to outstanding Brittany-style buckwheat galettes and sumptuous crepes. There are several locations in Paris now; you want the Le Marais location at 109 Rue Vieille-du-Temple.

I usually get a galette with egg, cheese, and artichoke followed by a salted caramel crepe for dessert, along with their delicious homemade cider.

Make a reservation in advance if possible ( they finally do online reservations, but only two weeks in advance ); if not, try showing up when they open at 11:00 AM.

Alternative lunch: Walk up to Rue des Roisiers and wait in line at L’As du Falafel, one of the best cheap lunches in Paris. Order your falafel and walk a few streets away to Place des Vosges, where you can enjoy your falafel “sur l’herbe” or sitting on a bench.

Alternative gluten-free lunch: As I update this post in 2023, I realize that neither galettes nor falafel are ideal for gluten-free travelers. If that’s the case for you, find any adorable Parisian-looking cafe in the Marais and dive into their menu. You can always find meat, fish, or an omelette with vegetables.

My friend Jodi creates extremely well-researched gluten-free travel cards that communicate what you can and can’t eat in the local language. Here’s the French card. Well worth the investment!

Afternoon: Museum of Your Choice

Visit one of Paris’s world-class museums in the afternoon. Since you’re visiting Paris on a day trip and have limited time, I urge you to buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and be sure to double-check which museums are open that day.

The Centre Pompidou (Beaubourg) is a short walk from Breizh Cafe; if you’re a fan of modern art and architecture, this is a great choice. (If not, I’d go somewhere traditional instead.) There’s a fabulous view of the Eiffel Tower from the top, too. Buy skip-the-line tickets to Centre Pompidou here.

Another option? Head to the Louvre and see the Mona Lisa  (La Joconde) for yourself! The Louvre can be overwhelming; I recommend limiting yourself to two or three sections of the museum (I happen to love the golden Gallerie d’Appolon).  Buy skip-the-line tickets to the Louvre here.

My favorite Paris museum is the Musée d’Orsay, which is home to incredible Impressionist paintings in a fantastic old train station. Buy skip-the-line tickets to the Musée d’Orsay here. Don’t forget to get a photo from the second level.

Not a museum fan? Check out a cool neighborhood instead! My top recommendations are Montmartre (18th arrondissement) or St. Germain (6th arrondissement). Pick out a destination in each — perhaps Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre, or Les Deux Magots in St. Germain — but spend the bulk of your time wandering.

Late afternoon: See the Eiffel Tower up close

How you see it depends on how much time you have. You can take a hop-on-hop-off cruise down the River Seine if that interests you. I recommend taking the Metro Line 9 to Trocadéro for the most stunning surprise view of the tower when you turn the corner. From there you can take all the photos you want.

I do not recommend actually climbing the Eiffel Tower. Why? Because you won’t be able to see it in your photos! But if you insist, once again I recommend buying skip-the-line Eiffel Tower tickets due to your limited time. Make sure it includes the summit.

Instead, you can enjoy the most wonderful view from the Trocadéro Gardens and on the other side, Champs de Mars, a big long park.

I recommend getting a good view from the nearby Arc de Triomphe. It’s a 20-minute metro ride on the 6 from Bir-Hakeim/Champs de Mars Tour Eiffel to Charles de Gaulle Étoile, five-minute cab ride, or 30-minute walk.

Climb the Arc (once again…yep, skip-the-line Arc de Triomphe tickets are best here) and enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower as well as down the Champs-Elysées to Place de la Concorde.

A free alternative is to go to the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette department store in the 9th. It’s not quite as close as the Arc, but it’s free to visit with a fabulous view — and a great way to experience your Paris sunset. Just don’t get sucked into the shopping!

75 minutes before your train: arrive at Gare du Nord

You have to go through immigration again at Gare du Nord, so it’s wise to arrive 75 minutes before your departure.

If you’re coming back from the Eiffel Tower, your best route is to take the 9 from Trocadéro to Mairie de Montreuil and switch to the 4, taking it to Gare du Nord. It should take around 35 minutes.

Enjoy that high-speed Eurostar train ride back to London, awash in your Paris memories. Now would be an excellent time to dive into those macarons you procured earlier!

Do’s and Don’t’s For a Day Trip to Paris from London

I’m not going to begrudge you for doing what you think is best for yourself, but here are some tips:

Do keep track of the time change. Paris is one hour ahead of London.

Do research opening times in advance. Especially so for museums. The Louvre and Centre Pompidou are closed Tuesdays, while the Musée d’Orsay and Musée Rodin are closed Mondays, to start.

Do say, “Bonjour, madame!” or “Bonjour, monsieur!” whenever you enter a shop or restaurant. This is considered basic manners in France and if you don’t, you may be treated rudely in return.

Don’t leave central Paris. This tacks on a lot of time to what is already too short of a trip. Versailles, for example, is just outside the city center but can easily eat up more than half a day. That also goes for Chartres, Giverny, Reims, the Loire Valley, the beaches of Normandy, Disneyland Paris, and other day trips from Paris.

Do guard against pickpockets. If you use a purse, I recommend using a black crossbody purse that zips shut , preferably made of leather or faux leather. Keep your hand on it. You can also keep valuables in the hidden pocket in a  Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf  — I guarantee nobody will pickpocket you there!

Don’t leave love locks anywhere. They’re damaging to structures and your lock will be removed anyway. Just enjoy the city of love without vandalizing it in the process.

Don’t go to the top of the Eiffel Tower.  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. This may seem like shocking advice, but when you’re on top of the Eiffel Tower you can’t see the Eiffel Tower.

It’s like going to the top of the Empire State Building in New York — the most iconic building will be missing from your photos.

Definitely go to the base of the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero Gardens for the best views, but if you want a good view from a building, I recommend the top of the Arc de Triomphe (close proximity), the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette department store in the 9th (a bit further away), or the top of the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre (furthest away but sweeping views over the whole city).

Do not, under any circumstances, forget an umbrella! Paris’s weather is similar to London’s, but only London gets the overcast weather fame. The weather changes quickly in Paris and rain can come out of nowhere, even on an otherwise sunny day. This travel umbrella is small enough to pack away but strong enough to hold its shape on a windy day.

What to Wear on a Day Trip to Paris

Parisians have a well-earned reputation for being among the best dressed in Europe. So what should you wear on a day trip to Paris?

It depends on the season, but my go-to outfit is a nice top or sweater, slim or skinny dark jeans, a faux leather moto jacket ( this one is similar to mine) or sleek winter coat, and a beautiful scarf or pashmina ( Speakeasy Travel Supply makes gorgeous scarves with a secret hidden pocket — perfect for Paris!).

For shoes, I recommend a pair of black flats with good arch support (I swear by black Abeo flats from the Walking Company ). If it’s cold, you might prefer  a pair of black boots .

My go-to stylish sneakers are these white leather Cole Haan sneaks . Top your look off with tasteful makeup, nice jewelry, and a pair of dark sunglasses .

You might enjoy dressing up a bit, especially if it’s warmer out. Wearing a nice dress makes for better photos and could earn you more cordial treatment from locals or even get you mistaken for being local.

What not to wear: Shorts, athletic sneakers, baseball caps, old-looking t-shirts, and anything with a university name on it will immediately brand you as a foreigner anywhere in Europe, but especially so in Paris. I recommend leaving these items at home.

Ready to go? Book train tickets from London to Paris here!

More on Paris:

• Solo Female Travel in Paris — Is it Safe?
• Where to Stay in Paris: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels
• 33 Most Famous Streets in Paris
• How to Spend a Layover in Paris
• 100 Travel Tips for Paris
• The Art of the Chilled Out Trip to Paris

Have you done a day trip to Paris from London? Share away!

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Day trips to Paris

London to Paris and back again in one day? Is it possible? Yes, it definitely is and in fact, it’s one of the best ways to make the most of Paris.

Discover Paris in a day

Whatever you have packed into your Paris itinerary you can start your day in comfort and style on a Eurostar train from London to Paris . And if you leave your return journey from Paris to London as late as possible, you’ll even be able to sample the sights and sounds of Paris at night. Oui!

So, now you know it’s possible, how will you make the most of your trip to Paris? Any day trip to Paris needs to involve the right blend of the top tourist attractions , with the best places to sample Parisian cuisine shoulder to shoulder with the locals, and the top neighbourhoods to really get that French flavour. Not only do we make Paris day trips possible on our speedy trains between the two cities, we’ve also got the inside track on the best things to do in Paris from our local team and the top tips for making Paris in a day something you’ll never forget.

Day trip in Paris itinerary

If you only have a short time in the city, it’s important to get the inside track on what to do in Paris in a day. There’s no time to waste reading guidebooks or searching on your phone for inspiration. Our expert team of local Parisian bloggers and influencers know just how to make the most of the city in a short space of time. And they’re on hand to guarantee you do just that.

If you’ve the appétit

Head south to Pierre Hermé : home of delicate macarons, indulgent Ispahan croissants and desserts that wouldn’t look out of place in the Louvre. Poilâne , with its signature sourdough loaf, and master chocolatier Patrick Roger are also good spots to pick up a tasty souvenir or two. A little further west, you’ll find Jacques Génin and the most divine caramels you’ll ever taste.

If you’re not quite ready for breakfast, go north

On your way to the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés pop into Ladurée for a box of scrumptious macarons. Wander the petite narrow streets, make your way east towards the Saint-Michel fountain, cross the bridge to Île de la Cité – and gaze at the majesty of Notre Dame.

Explore charming streets

Then, once you’ve had your fill of whispering “the bells” under your breath, continue into Le Marais: to explore charming streets, stumble upon stunning buildings, discover hidden gardens and relax in colourful cafés.

If there’s one tip to follow in the hunt for your dream déjeuner, it’s to eat where the locals eat. Luckily, there’s no shortage of choice, whether you’re vegetarian, visiting with kids or a romantic lunch à deux.

The romantic lunch

The City of Love is packed with so many  romantic things to do  for couples. Whether planning a Valentine’s Day to remember, a spontaneous jaunt just for two, or you simply want to dine in one of Paris’ stunning restaurants for an anniversary to remember, a day in Paris is the ultimate in a quick couple’s retreat. If you’re hungry for amour, head over to Le 52, take a seat at one of their marble-topped tables and prepare to be wowed by the most sensational seasonal fish dishes you've ever tasted.

The classic French bistro

Just a ten-minute walk from the hustle and bustle of Gare du Nord, make yourself at home in  La Maison Bleue . Their famous French bistro dishes look as fabulous as the mixture of modern and vintage French décor. Though if the sun has his chapeau on, it’s even lovelier to eat sur la terrasse.

Travelling with kids?

Paris really does do a fine sideline in catering for families. The boulevards are pram-friendly, the play-parks are inventive, and the museums offer state-of-the-art experiences. With so many fun things to do with the kids , Paris in a day with all the family really is a possibility. And for lunch? Chez Jeanette  serves up simple, quintessentially French food as well as kid-friendly burgers and frites. Pizza-lovers should make a beeline for  Lucky Luciano .

You’ve enjoyed the best that Paris has to offer in terms of food, now it’s time to explore –an essential part of all Paris day trips.

The islands of Paris

Two natural islands sit proudly in the midst of this stretch of the River Seine. Île de la Cité, the larger of the two, is home to the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral.

But never discount the allure of its sister Île, Saint-Louis. A short jaunt from Le Marais, one of Paris’s most fashionable neighbourhoods, the Pont Louis Philippe bridge welcomes you to intimate island life, with pretty cobbled streets and a refreshing laid-back charm. It really is amongst the city’s top sights to see.

Fancy a café or an ice cream?

Pick a café – Saint-Régis is always a favourite – and linger over lunch with a glass of rosé, while nearby street musicians fill the air with song. Then, time for a different kind of glass: Crème glacée from Paris’s original artisanal ice cream shop, Berthillon . Indulge in a scoop or two as the sun starts to dip over Notre Dame, or pack a Parisian picnic of crusty bread, gooey cheese and – bien sûr – a bottle of red, all best served with a sunset. Santé!

Think that just because you’re on a day trip to Paris from London means that you can’t enjoy the best of Paris at night? That’s where you’d be wrong. It’s time to make every moment count.

Parisian nightlife

Before you hop on the train back to London, why not sample some Parisian nightlife? If you book ahead, you could even catch a concert at the legendary, and newly-renovated, Elysée-Montmartre music hall.

See some art in the evening

Culture vultures should check out Palais de Tokyo. Europe’s largest contemporary art space is open until midnight every day except Tuesday. And that’s without mentioning the not-so-small matter of the Louvre.

For the foodies

Serious epicureans are spoilt for choix. Some of our go-to Michelin-starred picks: Le Gabriel at La Réserve Paris, Epicure at Le Bristol and L’Abeille at the Shangri-La. Pressed for time? Try Champeaux and Restaurant AG – both in the newly-transformed Les Halles district.

Craft beers

Right now, though, Paris is all about craft beers. Try brews by Brasserie de la Goutte d 'Or, Deck & Donohue and BapBap . On the Bassin de la Villette, in the 19th arrondissement, the Paname Brewing Company is a fun taproom which brews its own beer too.

Fancy some wine?

Raise a glass at an atmospheric bar like La Grande Crèmerie in St Germain. Across the Seine, Juveniles has fabulous food and, for one of the best cocktails in town, don’t miss Le Mary Celeste. If the weather’s nice, hit a rooftop bar like Le Perchoir and enjoy the view.

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Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Paris thanks to the Eurostar London to Paris trains . Time it right to get the most out of the day and take the first train out at 06.01 out and come back on last train of the day.

What are the best things to do on a day trip to Paris?

Tale a look at our recommendations of the best things to do to make the most of a full day in Paris before you head home on the last London to Paris Eurostar train ..

Where are the best places to eat on a day trip to Paris?

From friendly neighbourhood bistros dishing up tasty, locally sourced delicacies to vegan spots working plant-based wonders, Paris is a hotbed of exciting culinary experiences. Discover our best dining recommendation to enjoy on a day trip to Paris.

Is it worth going to Paris from London for just a day? Mais oui

While a day in Paris from London might seem ambitious at first, it’s easy when the journey’s so quick and comfortable. If you take the first Eurostar and come back on the last, you’ll have more than eleven hours to enjoy in the City of Light. And since Paris is one hour ahead of London, you’ll be back earlier than you might expect. In short, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the capital.

Here are some top tips for your day trip to Paris:

• Time it right : get the most out of the day and take the first train out at 06.01 out and come back on last train of the day.
• Travel in style : go Standard Premier for a more spacious seat and get breakfast served to you on board.
• Be prepared : buy your Paris metro tickets at our onboard bar buffet and avoid the queues in Paris.

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• Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

Have you booked a short break in Paris? Explore our list of Inspector-approved activities to enjoy the warmer weather in the French capital.

Things to do in Paris

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

Wondering what to do in Paris ? Not sure how to make the most of the city in the beautiful springtime? The MICHELIN Guide has got you covered! With our selection of 15 fabulous spots in and around the city, you can make the most of the milder weather and go full Emily in Paris. Channel your inner Parisian at the best restaurants with outside tables; enjoy a picnic or admire the cherry blossom at the prettiest gardens and parks; and discover the best ice cream shops, open-air markets, and flea markets.

1- Bask in the sun on one of the capital's 3,000 terraces

Rooftop spaces with a bird's-eye view of the city, leafy courtyards sheltered from sight and the noise of the street… in Paris, some restaurant terraces are real treasures, jealously guarded by those in the know. With an intimate terrace hidden from view, Apicius is set in a sumptuous 18th-century mansion akin to a small palace; overlooking the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower, Monsieur Bleu is ensconced in the Palais de Tokyo; and then there is the impressive terrace of Michelin-Starred Le Tout-Paris , a brasserie perched on the seventh floor of the Cheval Blanc hotel  (3 MICHELIN Keys). From Saint-Germain to Montmartre, via the Eiffel Tower, discover all the loveliest terraces in Paris!

More good news for fans of outdoor dining is that this year, as every year since 2021, the capital's 3,000 or so outdoor cafés will be allowed to expand and overflow onto the sidewalk too. Even better: from 1st April to 31st October 2024, these pop-up terraces will be open until midnight (instead of their usual closing time of 10pm).

2- Go bargain-hunting outside, from the bouquinistes to brocanteurs

The return of warmer weather means getting out in the fresh air! The City of Paris regularly publishes a list of the best flea markets. But for anyone who loves antiques and vintage design, the best place to go remains the Puces de Saint-Ouen, the world's largest flea market, where antique dealers and brocanteurs (second-hand dealers) sell their wares. This Marché aux Puces is spread over 7 hectares and encompasses no fewer than 11 different markets and over 2,000 stalls and shops. Furniture, bronze ornaments, lights, tableware, jewelry, books, archaeological finds… Pick up a rare piece as you wander through the narrow streets of this bohemian market founded in 1885, or sit on the terrace of a café and listen to a gypsy jazz concert. Another typically Parisian point of interest: the bouquinistes . These are booksellers who set up on the Right Bank of the River Seine, from Pont Marie to the Quai du Louvre, and on the Left Bank, from the Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire – they specialize in old editions and second-hand books.

NEW: Discover Paris by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and enjoy the City of Light

3- Picnic in a park with a view of cherry trees blossoming

If you ask a Parisian what their favorite springtime activity is, the chances are they'll say having a picnic. If you're lucky enough to be in the capital during that brief period when the cherry trees are in bloom, then your timing is perfect! In the Jardin des Plantes, the impressive 'Shirotae' Japanese cherry tree stands at 8m tall, and its branches form a giant parasol measuring 12m across. Square Marie-Trintignant on the edge of the historical Marais has a number of benches overlooking the nearby Seine. But if you're a true cherry blossom fan, the Parc de Sceaux is the place to go to see a remarkable floral explosion. From 30th March to 28th April 2024, the park is celebrating Hanami, the Japanese festival marking the blossoming of the sakura (cherry trees) – of which there are more than 150 scattered across the 180 hectare estate. Other green spaces where you can relax on the grass and tuck into your picnic are the Luxembourg Gardens, the Champ de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Buttes Chaumont, and Parc de Belleville, which commands one of the best views in the capital from its hilltop location. And let's not forget Parc Montsouris, in the very south of Paris.

4- Stock up on top-notch produce at the best markets

Would Paris be Paris without its countless food markets? With stalls packed with mouth-watering produce from all over France, they illustrate Parisians' obsession with good food. From the stalls of the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges to the crowded paths of the Marché d'Aligre, take a stroll through The MICHELIN Guide's favorite Parisian markets .

5- Hire a license-free boat or embark on a cruise

With Marin d'Eau Douce, hire a license-free electric boat and navigate the waters at your own pace, whether with friends, family or a date. Alternatively, hop aboard one of the famous Bateaux-Mouches, Vedettes de Paris or Bateaux Parisiens for a River Seine cruise taking in sights such as the Invalides, Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower. At night, with its illuminated bridges and monuments, the capital feels like a life-size film set. The Seine doesn't have a monopoly on Parisian waterways. Enjoyable cruises are also organized on Canal Saint-Martin, Canal de l'Ourcq, and the River Marne. Paris Canal takes you alongside the Musée d'Orsay, the Philharmonie, and La Géode; Canauxrama offers a range of cruise formats, from an introduction to the Paris of Parisians to a full-day exploration of the banks of the River Marne.

6- Savor the best ice creams and sorbets in Paris

Just a stone's throw from the Sacré Coeur Basilica, at 16 Place des Abbesses, Une Glace à Paris came up with the concept of offering outdoor seating in the form of deckchairs. Their delicious sorbets and ice creams are designed by Emmanuel Ryon (a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Glacier and World Pastry Champion) and Olivier Ménard. You can of course also order your cornet to take with you as you explore the streets of Montmartre. Head for the most popular sights, from Café des Deux Moulins, made famous by the film Amélie, to the bronze bust of the singer Dalida at the top of rue de l'Abreuvoir. On Île Saint Louis, Berthillon has become a real institution, having reigned supreme since the 1950s. Their recipes are guaranteed to contain no artificial colors or preservatives, and the menu features around 40 flavors on any given day (there are over 90 altogether): marron glacé, blackcurrant, mango, roasted pineapple with basil… all delicious!

7- Admire the greatest masterpieces at the European Night of Museums

Around mid-May, just before summer is in full swing, a magical night takes place in Paris. The European Night of Museums is a not-to-be-missed event organized by the Ministry of Culture, offering free evening entry to over 3,000 museums in France and Europe. As night falls, soak up the festive atmosphere with new routes, guided tours, open-air events, live shows, music, and culinary delights! In Paris, the Musée d'Orsay, Fondation Louis Vuitton, and Centre Pompidou will be welcoming you free of charge for this 20th edition, which falls on Saturday 18th May 2024. It's also an opportunity to visit the Louvre, as well as its eponymous brasserie with tables set up beneath the arcades of this quintessentially Haussmann-style building. But take note: you'll need to pre-book!

8- Get romantic in the gardens of the Musée de la Vie Romantique

South of Montmartre, on the other side of Boulevard de Clichy, the bucolic ‘Museum of Romantic Life’ is well worth a visit. From the ground floor (where writer George Sand's room has been recreated) to the first floor (dedicated to painter Ary Scheffer), it sweeps us back to the 19th century. But the main draw of this private mansion is its foliage-kissed terrace – one of the most idyllic in the capital, complete with an English-style tearoom, Rose Bakery. At a remove from the hustle and bustle, this green space is an oasis of calm in the heart of the 9th arrondissement.

9- Visit the Opéra, the Eiffel Tower… and the best restaurants in the area!

Kill two birds with one stone: Avoid the tourist traps and confidently head to these top restaurants located close to Paris's most beautiful monuments , not forgetting the excellent bistro Le Maquis , just a 15 minute walk from Montmartre.

10- Get a bird's-eye view of Paris: belvederes, rooftops and balloon rides

Springtime in Paris (usually) means clear skies. From the Belvédère de Belleville to the Tour d'Argent or the Jules Verne restaurant in the Eiffel Tower, from the upper terrace of the Arc de Triomphe to our favorite rooftops , see Paris from a different angle at these sky-high venues! If you want to go even higher, the Ballon de Paris Generali – in the Parc André Citroën (15th arrondissement) on the banks of the Seine – promises an unforgettable experience for young and old, from 0 to 99 years. Aboard the world's largest hot-air balloon, see the capital and its monuments from 150m above the ground.

11- Eat macarons

The famous almond-based sweet is distinguished by its texture, which is at once both crunchy and soft. The most famous brands are Ladurée, Lenôtre, Dalloyau, Fauchon, and Pierre Hermé, but there are also noteworthy lesser-known names; for instance, Jean-Paul Hévin, one of the best chocolatiers in Paris, has created a delicious macaron with Peruvian Grand Cru dark chocolate. There's also Chez Carette (Place des Vosges and Place du Tertre) and Yannick Lefort, another macaron specialist, in the 6th arrondissement. And don't forget Le Jardin Sucré (17th arrondissement), whose shop is nestled next to Parc Monceau. Get ready for a rainbow of flavors! For the record, it was Queen Catherine de' Medici, of Italian origin, who imported the macaron to France in the 16th century. It was a roaring success, shooting to fame all over France during the Renaissance and giving rise to the Amiens Macaron, the Saint-Emilion Macaron, and the Nancy Macaron. The Parisian version, also known as the Macaron Gerbet, only appeared in the 19th century.

12- Take a dip in the most stunning open-air, Art Deco swimming pool in Paris

Luxury hotel Molitor Paris has taken over the Molitor swimming pool , a legendary venue from the 1920s up to the 1980s. Tastefully renovated by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, the outdoor pool has had extra floors added, including a roof terrace overlooking the city. It also boasts a Clarins spa and a fantastic restaurant run by an award-winning chef. Behind the ultra-contemporary veneer, the site's Art Deco heritage has been preserved, not least the original studded portholes and 1940s furniture. Access to the swimming pool is, of course, included in the room rate.

13- Order an excellent specialty coffee… or the best hot chocolate!

There was a time when the average espresso at a Parisian café was undrinkable, being dubbed ‘jus de chaussette’ (‘sock juice’), but over the last decade the capital has been making up for lost time. When it comes to coffee, Paris has nothing left to prove and now even boasts a number of quality coffee roasteries. If you're not a fan of caffeine, you can fall back on our best Parisian haunts for a hot chocolate. Drink in or take away if you can, to sip as you wander the streets of the capital.

14- Enjoy the gardens of Versailles, its fountains and restaurants

Considered among the most fabulous in Europe and the world, the royal gardens of Versailles come into their own in spring. Take in the Palace of Versailles fountain show, in which the water interacts with lights and music. Then refuel at Le Bistrot du 11 , just a stone's throw from the palace, one of five establishments in Île-de-France (the Paris region) to have recently been awarded a Bib Gourmand .

15- Watch a tennis match at Roland Garros

The French Open is back from 20th May to 9th June for another championship! Located in the west of Paris, at Porte d'Auteuil, on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, the Roland Garros Stadium hosts this Grand Slam tournament every year, as well as the Paris Major Premier Padel. The sun will hopefully be shining, so don't forget your hat and sunglasses. Celebrities are often to be seen watching from the stands, so you might even bump into a famous face while you’re here!

Illustration image © Dan Asaki / Unsplash

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33 Unforgettable Things to Do in Paris

Discover the enchanting allure of the City of Lights with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Paris. Uncover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and indulgent culinary delights that will leave you captivated by the timeless beauty of this remarkable city.

Nestled along the banks of the Seine River, Paris stands as a testament to centuries of art, culture, and history. With its grand boulevards, iconic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, the French capital captivates millions of visitors each year. No matter your interest, you’re sure to find amazing things to do in Paris!

I’ve been to Paris so many times and it still remains one of my favorite places in the world. There’s a magic about the city that can’t really be described. It needs to be experienced. I hope you’re able to catch the magic while you’re there and have an incredible time. I wanted to share some of my favorite things to do in Paris with you to make your trip planning a little easier.

5 Day Paris Itinerary

If you’re traveling to Paris, you’ll want to have a solid itinerary that will help you organize your time in the best way possible and maximize your time and money. I’ve created this 5-day Paris itinerary that will help you see the best sites in Paris along with some hidden gems. It contains open-and-go day-by-day schedules and expert advice from me!

What to Do in Paris France

From its earliest days, Paris flourished under Roman rule. The city saw the rise of medieval architecture and emerged as a center of art and intellectualism during the Renaissance. And over the centuries, Paris has withstood revolutions and wars, only to emerge as a hub of civilization.

Today, Paris boasts a stunning blend of antiquity and innovation. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral, which serve as powerful symbols of the city’s cultural heritage.

You’ll find works of art like the iconic Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo showcased in the Louvre Museum and other renowned museums. Or walk the streets to take in Paris’ vibrant street art scene.

Neighborhoods like the bohemian Montmartre and the glamorous Champs-Élysées offer unique experiences that cater to a myriad of interests. And while you explore Paris, make time to savor the city’s diverse range of culinary experiences. Or for the fashionista, take your pick from grand malls, haute couture fashion houses, sprawling flea markets, and more!

Paris, France is a timeless destination that oozes romance, culture, and sophistication. Below you’ll read about 33 of my favorite activities and places to see in Paris. The city truly is a treasure trove and you’re sure to find things to do in Paris that you’ll never forget!

See The Biggest Landmarks in Paris

The eiffel tower.

The Eiffel Tower is located on the Left Bank of the Seine River, overlooking the vast Champ de Mars. One of the best things to do in Paris, this iconic landmark is a must-visit for every traveler.

Take an elevator ride to its dizzying heights and marvel at the panoramic views of the cityscape. You’ll see the magnificent Grand Palais from above. You can dine at one of the elegant restaurants inside the Eiffel Tower or enjoy a picnic on the Champ de Mars with the tower as your backdrop!

At the time of writing, the Grand Palais is closed for preservation but will reopen in 2024 for the Paris Olympics.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Situated on the Île de la Cité, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a breathtaking masterpiece! This must-see attraction will take your breath away with its impressive architecture and intricate details.

Admire the grandeur of its Gothic spires and marvel at the glowing stained-glass windows. Dating back to the 12th century, the rich history and cultural significance of Notre Dame make it a cherished symbol of the city. Despite the recent fire, Notre Dame stands resilient!

At the time of writing, Notre-Dame Cathedral is still closed for reconstruction after a fire in 2019 but should reopen in December 2024.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, situated at the Place Charles de Gaulle, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This architectural marvel is a symbol of French history. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte after his victory at Austerlitz, it was completed in 1836 and commemorates the French Revolution and the victory of the French military.

You can learn more about the construction and history of the Arc de Triomphe at the onsite museum. Or climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Paris and its iconic avenues, including the Champs-Élysées.

Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées, dubbed “the most beautiful avenue in the world,” is a landmark you don’t want to miss when in Paris. Stretching from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde, this famous street in Paris is steeped in history and lined with luxury shops, cafes, and theaters.

It has witnessed many significant events, from the grand military parades during the French Revolution to the liberation celebrations after World War II. Today, the iconic thoroughfare is known for hosting spectacular parades throughout the year.

If you’re going to be in Paris in mid-July, don’t miss the Bastille Day parade, which commemorates the French National Day. And the Champs-Élysées also serves as the route for the New Year’s Eve parade.

Book a Photoshoot

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 Tour Paris’ Art Museums

Located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, the Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most renowned art museums. It’s housed in the former Louvre Palace, which itself has a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

The Louvre’s collection showcases over 35,000 artworks, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces. It’s home to iconic pieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

You can book tickets online or in person but get them online if you don’t want to wait in the queue. Audio tours and guided tours are available for an additional fee.

Musée d’Orsay

Visiting the Musée d’Orsay is a top thing to do in Paris for art. Set on the Left Bank of the Seine River, this stunning museum is housed in a former railway station! It’s renowned for its collection of 19th- and 20th-century Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.

Among the masterpieces on display, the works of Van Gogh stand out. You can see his masterpiece, “Starry Night Over the Rhône,” as well as his iconic self-portraits! With its beautiful architecture and fabulous collection of paintings and sculptures, the Musée d’Orsay is an unforgettable experience.

Timed and untimed tickets are both available for the Musée d’Orsay. You can purchase tickets online or at the door, and Sundays are free for all.

The Centre Pompidou

Whether you’re admiring the artwork or enjoying the magnetic atmosphere, a visit to the Centre Georges Pompidou is one of the best things to do in Paris! This unique cultural center, located in the vibrant Beaubourg district, is home to Paris’ National Museum of Modern Art.

The Centre Pompidou boasts colorful and unconventional exteriors and thought-provoking exhibitions inside. You can explore a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations. Plus, the center offers amazing panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace!

For admissions tickets, you have several options, depending on which collections you wish to see. There are also a few galleries that are free to visit.

Musée Rodin

When exploring the things to see in Paris, don’t miss out on a visit to the Musée Rodin. Located in the elegant 18th-century Hôtel Biron, the museum is dedicated to the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin and houses over 300 of his works.

Here, you can admire his iconic works, including “The Thinker” and “The Kiss,” along with numerous other sculptures, drawings, and personal artifacts. Stroll through the museum’s gardens, adorned with Rodin’s sculptures, for an escape from the bustling city.

Musée de l’Orangerie

The Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris is a small yet impressive museum located in the Jardin des Tuileries on the Right Bank of the Seine River. Housed in a former orangery, the museum is renowned for its collection of 20th-century European art. One of its most famous attractions is the captivating display of Claude Monet’s Water Lilies series.

The oval-shaped rooms were specially designed to showcase Monet’s large-scale paintings, providing a serene and immersive experience for visitors. The museum also features works by other influential artists, including Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Modigliani, and Picasso.

If you plan on visiting more than 2 museums while Paris sightseeing, purchase a Paris Museum Pass ! It includes admission for one person to more than 50 museums in the region at a discounted rate, as well as other perks.

Enjoy the Parks and Gardens of Paris

Luxembourg gardens.

The Luxembourg Gardens in Paris have a fascinating history dating back to the 1600s. It was created by King Louis XIV, with beautiful flower beds, meticulously trimmed hedges, serene ponds, statues, fountains, and even an orchard.

There are statues and fountains to admire, including the famous Medici Fountain. You can rent a toy sailboat to sail on the pond, too! The Luxembourg Gardens are a great place to go for a stroll, have a picnic, or read a book.

And if you’re looking for free things to do in Paris, this iconic landmark is a great option! When you get hungry, there are cafes, bistros, and restaurants inside the park and nearby.

Jardin des Tuileries

For one of the top things to do in Paris, France, head to the Jardin des Tuileries. This stunning park is located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. Created in the 16th century, the historic park offers an elegant blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences all year round.

You can take strolls along its tree-lined pathways, relax on the green lawns, and admire manicured flower beds. The Jardin des Tuileries is adorned with beautiful statues and fountains from every era. And you can dine at outdoor restaurants under shade trees.

This is where you’ll find the Musée de l’Orangerie, an intimate art museum housing world-famous works of art. The gardens are also the site of the popular Tuileries Funfare in the summer and a Christmas Market in the winter.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Are you looking to get away from the main tourist area of Paris? The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is an ideal getaway. This is an especially unique and picturesque park nestled in northeastern Paris. Spanning over 60 acres, it offers an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, but also stunning views of Paris’ city center.

The park’s hilly terrain, serene lake, and lush greenery create a peaceful ambiance. It’s the perfect place to go for a walk or a run. There are several walking paths, old bridges, and hidden alcoves to explore. And the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont’s crown jewels are the Temple de la Sibylle, perched atop a rocky island, and the lovely Waterfall in the Grotto.

Bois de Vincennes

Bois de Vincennes is a beautiful public park situated on the eastern edge of Paris, outside of the busy city center. Covering 2,400 acres, it offers a diverse range of things to do and is one of the best things to do in Paris.

The park features lush forests, sprawling lawns, lakes, and gardens. And Bois de Vincennes is home to a mind-blowing variety of attractions, including a zoo, a botanical garden, and a Buddhist Temple that you can visit.

If you want to get active, you can do some cycling, walking, jogging, and boating. The park also houses the majestic Château de Vincennes, a medieval fortress and former royal residence that you can tour.

Parc de la Villette

For a completely different feel, there’s the Parc de la Villette. It’s a fun urban park nestled in northeastern Paris. Spanning over 135 acres, the park boasts contemporary architecture, lush green spaces, and innovative design.

A highlight of the park is the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the largest science museum in Europe. You can also enjoy outdoor concerts and cultural events at the Philharmonie de Paris. It’s also home to one of the most unique sights to see in Paris, The Geode, a giant reflective sphere. The park also features themed gardens, excellent playgrounds, and a canal.

Explore Historic Paris Neighborhoods

Le Marais is a vibrant and historic neighborhood located in the heart of Paris. Once a noble district, you can see remnants of the past in narrow streets and breathtaking architecture. Today, Le Marais is a popular area with numerous art galleries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and stylish restaurants.

The neighborhood boasts several landmarks, including the Place des Vosges, the Musée Carnavalet, and the striking Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). Le Marais was also Paris’ former Jewish Quarter and is still home to many quality Kosher restaurants.

If you’re interested in guided Paris tours, this small-group walking tour of Le Marais is excellent. It’s a great way to see one of Paris’ oldest neighborhoods and learn about its long history.

Montmartre, nestled atop a hill, is an enchanting neighborhood in Paris’s 18th arrondissement known for its bohemian charm and artistic legacy. It was once the stomping grounds of creatives like Pablo Picasso and Gertrude Stein!

If you’re looking for things to do in Paris for free, you can’t go wrong simply exploring the hilly streets lined with quaint cafés, art studios, and boutiques. Stroll through Place du Tertre, where local artists display their work. Or walk down iconic streets like Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue des Abbesses.

Montmartre is also home to several iconic sights in Paris. There’s the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, where you can take in panoramic views of the city. And this is where the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret is located.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

You’ll find more of the best things to do in Paris, France in the neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Located on the Seine River, it’s always been a gathering place for writers, philosophers, and artists. These days, the neighborhood is also known for its boutique shops and eateries.

You can visit the famed Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, where renowned intellectuals once gathered. Saint-Germain is also home to the beautiful Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church, which dates back to the 5th century! Wander through its charming streets, browse independent bookshops, visit art galleries, and indulge in French cuisine at cozy bistros.

Latin Quarter

Immerse yourself in history, art, and literature as you wander through the Latin Quarter, situated on the Left Bank of the Seine River. It gets its name from the Latin language, which was widely spoken in the area by scholars during the Middle Ages. Today, the neighborhood is still home to multiple intuitions of higher education.

This also means that the Latin Quarter benefits from being Paris’ college scene! You can check out trendy bars and cafes, bookstores, lively markets, and more. And the neighborhood boasts significant Paris attractions, like the Panthéon and the Luxembourg Gardens.

Canal Saint-Martin

The Canal Saint-Martin in Paris is a picturesque waterway that stretches through the vibrant neighborhoods of the 10th and 11th arrondissements. The area around Canal Saint-Martin is known for its street cafés and small shops. Lined with pretty bridges and tree-lined quays, it offers a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.

You can take leisurely walks along the canal’s banks, enjoy picnics, or simply sit and watch the boats pass by. Indulge in delicious food at the local bistros, browse boutiques, or explore the neighborhood’s prominent street art. Canal Saint-Martin offers a delightful escape just a bit north of the city center.

Sample All of French Cuisine

Dine at the finest french restaurants.

Paris is renowned for its culinary excellence, so definitely take some time to eat all the incredible food in Paris. You’ll find options for every budget and for all tastes.

Going on a culinary adventure in Paris is not only delicious, but it’s a great way to connect with the essence of French culture! Known worldwide for its exquisite flavors and culinary artistry, French cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s history, traditions, and passion for gastronomy.

Take the opportunity during your Paris vacation to immerse yourself in the diverse culinary landscape of downtown Paris, with its Michelin-starred restaurants. Indulge in classics like escargots, foie gras, coq au vin, and crème brûlée for a sensory journey into the depth of French food heritage. And dine at iconic establishments like Le Train Bleu for a glimpse at French Belle Époque architecture while you savor gourmet dishes.

Eat at Cafés and Bistros

Paris is known globally for its charming café culture, where locals and visitors alike gather to eat, people-watch, and savor the moment. And enjoying a café au lait, the classic combination of coffee with steamed milk, is a quintessential Parisian pastime!

Plus, cafés and bistros aren’t just places to grab a bite! They’re social hubs where conversations flow and friendships form. These establishments offer an authentic Parisian ambiance, with their sidewalk seating, elegant interiors, and attentive service.

They also showcase Paris’ iconic art of leisurely dining. Enjoy croissants, quiches, or a delicious croque-monsieur, while embracing the laid-back and sophisticated atmosphere that defines Paris.

Go on a Wine and Cheese Tasting

One of the best things to do in Paris is taste the world-famous wines and cheeses that the region is known for. Going on a wine and cheese tasting provides an opportunity for you to deepen your appreciation for craftsmanship and regional traditions.

During this small-group tour in a cheese cellar , your guides will educate you on how to pair wines with regional cheeses. Nibble on Camembert, Roquefort, and Gruyère while you learn about the art of cheese making!

Take a Food Walking Tour

A wonderful way to experience any city for the first time is by going on a food walking tour. The best Paris tours for foodies are led by locals who will take you to local patisseries, boulangeries, food markets, fromageries, and more!

On this 3.5-hour walking tour of Montmartre , you’ll learn the proper way to eat French staples while you take in the historic neighborhood’s most famous landmarks. Your guide will give you recommendations for authentic restaurants and soon become a friend!

For even more variety, this ultimate food tour of Le Marais is a must-do in Paris. Just make sure you come hungry! Your guide will weave history into your foodie experience as you try a variety of Parisian classics. You’ll also sample food from Paris’ international community, including the Jewish bakery, Sacha Finkelsztajn.

Go Shopping in Paris

Paris department stores.

For fun things to do in Paris, France, get some retail therapy at the finest Parisian department stores. The Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are located on Boulevard Haussmann in the bustling shopping district of the 9th arrondissement. These 2 iconic malls offer a blend of high-end fashion, luxury brands, common household names, and trendy shops.

Both department stores also showcase Art Nouveau architecture, with ornate facades, stained-glass domes, and elegant interiors. From rooftop terraces inside each mall, you can also enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the city skyline, including the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe!

Designer Boutiques

A must for fashion enthusiasts when in Paris is exploring boutiques and designer stores. Paris is the global capital of fashion, it’s even the home of Fashion Week, and its boutiques showcase the height of style, luxury, and craftsmanship. Brands like Chanel, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent have established their legacies in the fashion world and offer unique shopping experiences.

You have many options, but I suggest making your way to the famous luxury shopping street, Avenue Montaigne, in the 8th arrondissement. Known as the “Golden Triangle” of Paris, the avenue is home to dozens of prestigious designer boutiques and flagship stores. This is where you’ll find renowned fashion houses such as Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and many others!

Paris’ Famous Flea Market

Les Puces de Saint-Ouen is one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world and one of the best places to visit in Paris. Called Les Puces by locals, it’s located at Porte de Clignancourt on the northern outskirts of Paris. And it boasts a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, furniture, clothing, accessories, and more!

Spanning multiple acres, Les Puces is a maze of alleyways and stalls with vendors selling everything you can think of. It’s a paradise for collectors, designers, and vintage lovers seeking one-of-a-kind pieces. You can visit Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from around 10 AM to 6 PM. The market can get pretty crowded, so get there early to make the most of your visit.

Enjoy Paris’ Nightlife

Experience cabaret.

One of the best things to do in Paris at night is to attend a cabaret show! Immerse yourself in Parisian nightlife with drinks and dinner while you watch dazzling performances. There are many wonderful cabarets throughout the city, but 2 of the best are the Moulin Rouge and Lido.

The Moulin Rouge, located in the Montmartre neighborhood, is a legendary venue known for its iconic red windmill and can-can dancers. The Lido on the Champs-Élysées is equally famous for its grandeur and elaborate productions. Both venues offer popular world-class shows and should be booked several weeks in advance!

Attend The Paris Opera

Even if you’ve never attended the opera or been to a traditional performance arts venue, take advantage of the opportunity when traveling to Paris. While there are several fabulous opera houses in Paris, the Opéra Garnier is a cultural landmark and a Paris must-see.

The Opéra Garnier, known as the Palais Garnier, is a magnificent opera house located in the 9th arrondissement. The exteriors feature grand architecture in the Beaux-Arts style. The Baroque interiors are equally stunning, featuring a gilded auditorium, sweeping grand staircase, and ornate foyers.

Home to the Paris Opera Ballet, you can see them perform at the opera house throughout the season. Or attend a lineup of classical concerts and operatic theater. The Palais Garnier is also popular for its guided tours. You see backstage exhibits, admire the architecture, and learn fascinating history about the venue.

Music Venues

Paris also boasts a vibrant music scene with numerous venues that cater to every taste. One iconic venue in the heart of the city is The Olympia. Since 1893, the legendary venue has welcomed countless iconic artists, from Edith Piaf to The Beatles, making it one of the most prestigious concert halls in Paris. Today, the venue continues to showcase a diverse range of genres, including pop, rock, jazz, and more.

There’s also La Cigale in Montmartre. This historic concert hall is known for its ornate interiors and intimate atmosphere. Dating back to the late 19th century, the hall has hosted renowned artists from various genres, including rock, pop, and alternative.

Take a Day Trip from Paris

If you need a break from the city and want to explore more of the surrounding areas, taking a day trip can be a great option. We’ve got a full list here of our favorite day trips from Paris. But here are just a few from the list.

Palace of Versailles

One of the most popular day trips from Paris is to the Palace of Versailles, being an easy hour train ride away from the city! The palace was the residence of French kings and queens, including Louis XIV. And it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The palace has an admission fee that includes an audio tour, and the gardens are free to visit. Inside, you can immerse yourself in the palace’s rich history while you explore lavish interiors, including the iconic Hall of Mirrors. Take a walk through its vast gardens, with its stunning fountains, topiaries, lush trellises, orange trees, and budding flowers.

Disneyland Paris

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit Disney Paris if you love the Mouse! Less than an hour by metro from the iconic Gare de Lyon station, the park is one of the most beloved modern tourist attractions in Paris. With its iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, thrilling rides, and beloved Disney characters, it’s perfect for all ages.

From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to whimsical attractions, there’s something for everyone. Take the kids to the Frontierland Playground, explore Alice’s Curious Labyrinth, or ride through Pinocchio’s Daring Journey. And make sure to stay for the dazzling fireworks show that happens every night!

Explore the Champagne Region

If you have time to explore the regions around Paris, consider this full-day tour with wine tastings to the nearby Champagne region. There are beautiful landscapes, a rich heritage, and some of the finest sparkling wines in the world. Visiting the Champagne region is in itself one of the best things to do in France.

You’ll walk through vineyards and see where the grapes are carefully cultivated. Learn about the traditional methods of champagne production and tour a family-owned winery. Your tour will include a classic French meal at the winery as well as stops at prestigious champagne houses.

Explore Giverny and Claude Monet’s House

The village of Giverny is about 2 hours from Paris by train and a little less by car, but it’s worth the trip. It was in this idyllic village that renowned French artist Claude Monet spent the majority of his adult life. Giverny’s lush gardens, blooming flowers, and picturesque surroundings served as an endless source of inspiration for Monet’s artwork!

And visiting the Maison de Claude Monet in Giverny is an extraordinary and unique experience. This is the actual house where the renowned artist lived and created his iconic artworks. Stepping inside the Maison de Claude Monet is like entering the world of the artist himself.

Explore the beautifully preserved rooms filled with Monet’s personal belongings, furniture, and memorabilia. Outside, wander through the enchanting gardens that served as the backdrop for his famous Water Lilies series. It’s a truly emotional journey into the tortured life and artistic genius of Monet!

FAQ about Visiting Paris France

When is the best time to visit paris.

That depends on what kind of experience you want to have! Peak season is May through August. This is when the city is the most crowded and you’ll have plenty of company at Paris’ top attractions. But it’s also when most shops are open and the summer carnivals are in full swing. Want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy warm weather? Come to Paris in April or September-October. And the holidays in Paris are also busy but make for a magical experience.

Do I need to speak French when in Paris?

As a tourist in Paris, you don’t need to speak French, but knowing the basics will help you out a lot! In an emergency, you’ll always be able to find someone who speaks English. And when it comes to sightseeing in Paris, most attractions offer tours in a variety of languages.

Is Paris safe for tourists?

Paris is a relatively safe destination, with the most common crime being pickpocketing. The best advice? Use common sense, keep your belongings close, and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded tourist areas. Worried about civil unrest? Just avoid areas where protests are taking place and you’ll be safe!

How much time should I spend in Paris?

Especially if it’s your first time in Paris, aim for a 5-day trip. This will give you enough time to see the big attractions, go shopping, and visit a few of Paris’ iconic neighborhoods. f you only have 1 or 2 days, you’ll want to hit up the biggest sites. Focus on the most famous places in Paris, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and a famous Paris museum. And another must-see in Paris, if you’re limited on time, is a cabaret show at Moulin Rouge!

Create Memories with a Trip to Paris

With so many famous attractions and hidden gems, there are memorable things to do in Paris for even the most weathered traveler! You might explore the streets of Montmartre, visit the incredible Louvre Museum, or enjoy delicious French food at a cozy bistro. However you spend your time, you’ll be amazed by the city’s beauty!

With its timeless charm and lively atmosphere, Paris offers unforgettable experiences that will make you want to come back again and again. The magic of the City of Lights will stay with you even after you say goodbye!

The post 33 Unforgettable Things to Do in Paris appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

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After spending 2 nights in Innsbruck we took the train to Mannheim in Germany (5 hours). This was a very nice train, with clean toilets, excellent on board catering, and up to date information screens.

We then had a tight but in theory feasible connection in Mannheim to catch the TGV to Paris (14 minutes). The train from Innsbruck to Mannheim was running late, and we had just 3 minutes to run from one platform to the other at Mannheim. The other passengers kindly let us alight first and showed us which way to go. We sprinted the length of platform 8, through the tunnel, and up the flight of stairs to platform 3 - no mean feat with backpacks - and we made it with seconds to spare.

Seat reservations on the TGV were mandatory (£17 each). No one checked our tickets during this leg of our journey, and lots of people didn’t have seats and were stood or sat in the vestibules. So the ‘mandatory reservation’ requirement confused us and we felt like we could have travelled with just our Interrail passes rather than forking out nearly £70 for seat reservations.

Anyway, we made it to Paris (3 hours by TGV) and it was wonderful to get all the way from Austria to France by train so quickly, with very little hassle and no border checks.

In Paris we took the number 4 metro line to our hotel in Saint Germain. We knew we wouldn’t be using the metro much so we just purchased single one-way ‘t+ tickets’ (£1.85 each). For the rest of our time in Paris we walked to get around. On our departure day we took the metro to the Gare du Nord to catch the Eurostar back to London .

Accommodation

We stayed for 2 nights at the Hotel La Perle at a cost of £475 per night for 2 connecting rooms and breakfast. This was much more than we’d normally spend on accommodation. Unfortunately when we were arranging our trip we hadn’t realised that our arrival date coincided with the Paris marathon, and that rates were therefore inflated across the city.

We chose this hotel as it came highly recommended, and the family sleeping arrangements were the best we could find in central Paris. The rooms were quite small but cosy, and each had small but luxurious en-suite bathrooms. We missed having a kettle to make our own tea, and a little more space to move around the rooms would have been nice.

The hotel was located in the Saint-Germain-des-Pres neighbourhood on the south bank. We have visited Paris before but this was our first time staying in this area. The location of the hotel was fantastic, just 2 minutes walk from the Metro. The area was a delightful mix of cafes and shops, in pretty narrow streets with hanging baskets. Yes, it was touristy, but it felt very Parisian and we loved it.

Saint Germain and the Latin Quarter

We hadn’t been very organised and failed to book time slot tickets for any museums or galleries. But because we’ve visited Paris before, and as we only had one full day this time, we decided it was ok not to visit any of the major museums but just to walk around and soak up the atmosphere.

We started the day with a breakfast of boiled eggs, pastries and orange juice at the hotel. Then we spent the morning walking through Saint Germain and on to the Latin Quarter, stopping to take photos and pop into shops that looked interesting.

We walked first to Église Saint-Sulpice at the bottom of the road of our hotel, and then up to Rue de Buci, on to the Musee de Cluny and Samuel Paty Square, the Sorbonne, the Pantheon, and back up to the river. We stopped en route for a rest in the small but peaceful Square André Lefevre.

During this walk we looked in lots of shops including Taschen Books, San Francisco Books, The Abbey Bookshop, Momie Mangas and Album Comics. Sadly we didn’t find a cheese shop, but it’s probably to the benefit of our waistlines.

Finally we reached Shakespeare and Co Books at the river. There was a long queue to get into the bookshop and as we’ve visited before we opted to skip the shop and rest our feet and enjoy some drinks at the cafe in the sunshine instead.

Saint Chapelle Flower Market

After our walk around the south bank we crossed the bridge to Ile de Cite and took a look at the ongoing restoration of Notre Dame before heading to Saint Chapelle. Here we visited the flower market which was full of gorgeous tulips, scented jasmine, and hydrangeas.

Seine Boat Tour

We pre-booked tickets for the Seine Boat Tour operated by Vedettes Du Pont Neuf. We booked open time tickets (£10 each) so we could just join the next tour departing when we reached Pont Neuf.

We like seeing cities from their waterways and we think a boat tour down the Seine is a great way to see some of the city’s major landmarks. There is, of course the Eiffel Tower , but the boat also goes past the Musee D’Orsay, Musee Du Louvre , Trocadero and the Statue of Liberty (a replica of the one in New York), among many other famous buildings.

After the boat tour we were all hungry so we walked across the river to the north bank where we had a really great late lunch at brasserie La Cafe Plume. The kids were delighted that their children’s meals of steak, salad ane french fries came with ice cream for dessert.

Jardin des Tuileries

We then walked to the Jardin des Tuileries which was stunning in the sunshine with beautiful blossoms and spring bulbs.

We didn’t make it to the playground as we were all tired by this point, so we walked back to Saint Germain.

Before calling it a day we popped into Crêperie des Canettes right next door to our hotel. Even though we’d had a big lunch and were still full, this was the last day of our holiday, and we couldn’t leave Paris without eating a crêpe. The kids had Nutella (heathens), and the adults classic sugar and butter. 10/10, absolutely scrumptious!

Final Thoughts

During past trips we’ve visited many of the museums and parks, and have stayed in different parts of the city including in a tiny hotel in Montmarte, and once in a generous friend’s stunning apartment near the Place D’Italie in the 13th Arrondissement. We loved Saint Germain and would definitely stay in this area again in future.

With just one full day in Paris we couldn’t do a lot, and we didn’t want to rush around trying to cram everything in. We visited on a Monday when many museums were closed, and those that were open, were fully booked. So we spent the day simply moseying around, moving slowly, chilling at cafes and taking it all in. It was a lovely end to a fabulous spring holiday in Europe .

This trip has inspired us to return to Paris in the near future. We’d love to revisit some of our favourite things in Paris that we didn’t manage this time like Monet’s waterlilies at Musée de l'Orangerie, and the view from the Sacré-Cœur.

During our two days in Paris we went way over our usual budget thanks to high accommodation costs and spent:

* Accommodation: £950

* Eating Out: £165

* Public transport: £15

* Activities and entry tickets: £40

Total: £1170 (£146 per person per day)

9 replies to this topic

Of course that’s an option :-) but with only one full day we wanted to be right in the centre from the get go, and we loved the area we stayed in.

Next time we will aim to stay for longer and stay somewhere less expensive.

@WRT, that’s how we have chosen locations for our accommodation when only having 2-3 nights. I love that you had two rooms, with two ensuites! When travelling en famille that is worth the extra €€,!

Pirate 🏴‍☠️

Those youngsters walked all of that... Bravo!

Nice family trip - thanks for your trip report.

Well done WRT!

I bet you made many wonderful memories with your kiddos!

It would be more helpful if you could quote prices in the currency of the country referred to since this forum is read by people the world over. Please use € for countries that use them, £ for the UK, $ for the USA, Canada, Australia etc.....

It sounds like a wonderful trip. I bet the kids thought the run to catch the train was a great adventure! 😁

Pirate, it was indeed a treat having two rooms! The kids are getting more independent and feel comfortable and secure provided they know where we are and we don’t go far away. As they get older we’ll probably need two rooms more often and of course that’ll be pricey but nice to have more space and privacy for both them and us.

Mini, thank you so much :)

Teacher, we did make some great memories thank you!

Kimc, it was indeed a wonderful trip. The kids were buzzing when we did catch the train, they keep talking about how it was stressful but fun. Quite an adrenaline hit!

Thank you everyone for the feedback :-)

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Girona to Roubaix: Jack Thompson’s 1,250-Kilometer Ride

“Ultra Jack” took on a multi-day bikepacking trip from Spain to France as part of his FKT training and his love for the cobbled classic.

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The Ride: Girona to Roubaix

Spectating 2024 paris-roubaix.

Over the past several years, he’s completed numerous endurance challenges and set dozens of records in the category. Thompson, originally from Perth, Australia, started cycling during his teenage years, but rather than pursuing professional cycling, he focused on ultra-cycling, completing events like the Transcontinental Race in Europe and the Himalayan Expedition. In 2019, the Aussie completed The Grand Tours Everesting Project, tackling challenging locations like Passo Stelvio and Col de la Bonette. And in 2020, he set a Guinness World Record for the most kilometers ridden unsupported in a week, covering 3,505 km in Valencia, Spain.

More recently in 2023, the Specialized-sponsored athlete took on Japan’s infamous Cannonball Route , riding from Osaka to Tokyo. He aimed to cover the 520-kilometer route (323 miles) with 4,206 meters (13,800 feet) of climbing in less than 19 hours. He did it in 18 hours and 28 minutes .

His first FKT attempt of 2024 comes in May, Spain’s 775 km de Camino de Santiago —a network of pilgrimages leading to the shrine of the apostle James in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. As he was preparing for this big goal, he decided that a multi-day training ride was in order. And why not pair it with one of his favorite races Paris-Roubaix ? Something that’s been on his list for years. “My coach and I worked out that I needed one big training block before then,” said Thompson.

“My creative mind got working, and given that my bike of choice is Specialized’s endurance-focused Roubaix SL8 . I figured it was the perfect opportunity to take the bike on a proper outing and hit two birds with one stone: watching Paris-Roubaix and logging a large training block across five days.”

So he did it. He rode a total of 1,250 km (777 miles) from his home in Girona, Spain, to Roubaix, France, to watch one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world. The trip took five days and saw him arrive in Roubaix this past Tuesday, with plenty of time to recover and relax ahead of the big weekend.

Gear and Nutrition

Thompson rode a 56cm Roubaix SL8 with future shock technology, a SRAM groupset, and 35mm Specialized Mondo tires on Roval Rapide wheels. “For long days back to back, the future shock is a game changer. It just removes all of the buzz out of the road,” he said. “I wanted to test the deeper rims in the crosswinds before the next record attempt. The only quirks were the 165mm cranks I use to open up my hips!”

The Aussie also sported his SL8 with various bags: an Aeroe rear rack, a Camelback saddlebag, a Cyclite frame bag, a Tailfin top tube bag, and a small handlebar bag.

As for nutrition, he took a range of GU products with him and treated these as his rocket fuel. “I can’t carry all my food with me, so I saved these for moments I really needed the extra boost. Be it a steep hilly section or a long stretch of headwind,” Thompson told Bicycling . “I bought most of my fuel en route, and I found myself eating higher-fat food, such as croissants, cheese, and nut bars, just because of the prolonged energy they provide over and above simple carbs.”

Last Friday, leaving Girona in northeastern Spain, Thompson started the trek, logging an average of 250 km each day and gaining around 2,000 meters of elevation before arriving in Roubaix this past Monday. His longest day was 267 km and with 4,200 meters of elevation. The ride time each day was between 8 and 9.5 hours. “I’d stop once for a coffee at around 100 km in and a second time for lunch at around 160 km mark.”

He planned the route using Komoot and didn’t give much thought to where he’d stop or what he’d encounter. Each day was a bit of a surprise.

Day 1 - “Bomber day on the pedals. Great winds in the morning and balmy conditions. Arrived just before sundown 👌🏽 Quick trip to LIDL for treats and straight to the local kebab shop 🔥,” he wrote on his Strava log after day one.

He didn’t pedal the entire route solo. “I had a good mate and fellow Aussie, Sam Munday, join me for the first day and a half. He then had to swing back south and head to work. I enjoyed the camaraderie of riding together and look forward to another trip together soon.”

Day 2 - On night two, Thompson stayed at a guesthouse with some lovely French people. They had a fire going, and it was just what he needed after a cold, wet day on the bike.“Day 2 was grippy, 256km and 4,200m vert, @sammymunday and I woke to mist and drizzle as we set of North,” he wrote on his Strava log .

“Temperatures plummeted as we summited the first berg of the day, and the banter went quiet as we shivered our way down to the 60km mark and our planned brew stop for the morning 🥶 🥐 ☕️ Fuelled up on pastries, we cracked on through some amazing landscapes, the sun finally shining, weaving up into small mountain towns.”

Day 3 - On the third day, Thompson faced “thunderstorms galore and good dashing of hail. It was fortunate that at least the wind was blowing in the right direction 👌🏽👌🏽 Fueled up on local cheese and a fresh croissant for breakfast, the theme of today was long and rolling roads. The bright yellow fields juxtaposed against the dark sky made for some incredible landscapes along the way.”

Once done with the day’s ride, he remembered it was Easter Sunday, and nothing was open. “I couldn’t get food anywhere. I was lucky I’d taken enough from the previous day. My accommodation was in a tiny village, and in full desperation mode, I rode an extra 22 km to McDonald’s, stuffed my backpack with burgers, and enjoyed a solo (albeit pretty greasy) dinner in bed. The following morning, I had burgers for breakfast from the night before.”

Day 4 - “Some of the throughout France are amazing, and on day four, I rode along canals for 150 km. It was so good! I also stumbled across Chateau de Fontainebleau, which was spectacular. I awkwardly asked someone to grab a photo, but I am so glad I did. Churches in small villages and the interaction with local people along the route were all highlights for me.”

Day 5 - The last day brought Thompson another 265 km from quaint, sleepy central France to the outskirts of Paris and its busy streets. “Crossing the border from France and into Belgium, I realized my adventure was almost complete. Feeling damp from a day of constant rain, a little tired, and excited for a warm shower, I reflected on the days prior and how much I’d enjoyed the simplicity of life that bike packing affords. The bike was caked in dirt, the sun finally came out for all but a few minutes, and I unclipped for the final time. I enjoyed that a lot!”

On Saturday, Thompson will ride the Granfondo event with the Specialized team and then watch the women’s race, followed by the men’s race on Sunday.

Ultra Jack got what he wanted out of this trek to Roubaix. “I enjoy that bikepacking brings us to our most simple form as humans. All we have to think about is getting from A to B, what and where we will eat and sleep. Nobody knows us, what we’re doing, or where we’re going, and the stresses of everyday life disappear.”

“It’s not ‘survival mode,’” he added. It’s ‘life simplified,’ and I love that. Small interactions with others, be it a passing smile or a wave, feel so much more significant when traveling, and that’s something we often take for granted.”

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