paris day trip plan

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!

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!

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

3 Days in Paris: The Perfect Paris Itinerary

Last updated: December 16, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 107 Comments

Thinking about spending 3 days in Paris? Great choice! We think that’s the perfect amount of time to spend in one of our favourite European cities, giving you the chance to see many of the top sights and attractions and really get a feel for the city.

Of course, if you have longer, that’s even better, but three days in Paris is certainly enough to see a lot, and works well either as a long weekend, or as part of a longer Europe trip itinerary like this .

To help you with your planning, we’re going to share with you everything we think you need to know to spend three days in Paris. We’re going to give you a suggested itinerary, tips for getting around, advice on where to stay in Paris, our thoughts on when is best to visit and even some suggested ways to save money in Paris.

Let’s get started!

3 Day Paris Itinerary

This three-day Paris itinerary has you hitting all the major sites and attractions in the city. Naturally we suggest you use this as a guide, and add to or remove from it as necessary.

We also suggest you check the opening times and days for each attraction. For example, the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so depending on when your trip to Paris is, you might need to re-order the days to get everything in.

Paris Itinerary:  Day 1

Eiffel tower.

What better way to start off your trip to Paris than with a visit to the Eiffel Tower . This is without doubt the most iconic landmark in Paris (if not France!), and a visit here is a must for any visit to Paris. When we visit Paris, we always visit at least once, and every time we are amazed at the sheer scale of this beautiful building.

There are a number of ways to enjoy the Eiffel Tower. First, you can just enjoy the views of the tower, which we think are particularly good from the Trocadero Gardens across the river, or the Champ de Mars gardens behind the Tower.

You can also go up inside the Eiffel Tower to one of the different floors, for expansive views of the city. We do like the experience of going up inside, but we don’t think it offers the best view of the city – because the view from inside the Eiffel Tower is missing the most famous part of the skyline – the Eiffel Tower itself!

Still, if this is your first visit to Paris, we highly recommend the experience. We do suggest that if you want to go up the Eiffel Tower, that you book your tickets in advance from the official website . The queues here for tickets can be very long, and with a pre-booked ticket you can skip the wait.

Alternatively, if you are feeling fit, you can also take the stairs up to the first level. There is not usually a very long queue for the stairs, which have their own ticket line, and it is also slightly cheaper. See our guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower to help you plan your visit.

There are other options for visiting as well. A guided climb of the Eiffel Tower is included on the Paris Pass . This runs in the middle of the day, so if you want to take advantage of this, you will likely want to switch the Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise around in this itinerary. It’s also included on the Paris City Card , with a choice of timeslots.

Finally, this tour includes a guided visit (with elevator) to the second floor with the option to visit the summit if you want. It also includes free cancellation, which the official ticket does not.

Seine River Cruise

Another must-do experience in Paris is a river cruise on the Seine. This is a very popular activity, with multiple operators offering cruises up and down the river.

We’ve actually written a post about the various Seine River sightseeing cruise options which goes through the majority of the operators. If you’d prefer a dinner cruise, check out our guide to the best Seine River dinner cruises .

We can definitely recommend the Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise . These depart from just next to the Eiffel Tower, so fit in nicely with this itinerary, and they are included for free if you pick up a Paris Pass or a Paris City Card .

The cruise takes in all the highlights from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame, and there’s commentary included. So sit back, relax, and let the scenery roll by.

Hop on Hop off Bus

Talking of sitting back and relaxing, we find that a great way to get oriented in a new city and get an idea of the sights we want to see is to take a Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus tour.

Paris is no exception to this rule, and you can pick up a HOHO bus in Paris from right next to the Eiffel Tower, which will then take you around Paris’s key attractions.

There are multiple operators running different routes around the city. If you pick up a Paris Pass, it includes a 1 Day Big Bus Tour . We took this tour and enjoyed it – it’s both an easy way to get around the city, plus you can learn about many of the sights as you go.

However there are a few different HOHO options in Paris, so pick the one that works for you!

Paris Walking Tour

All this sitting around on buses and boats is great for getting oriented, but at some point you’re going to need to put your feet on the pavement! Paris is a wonderful city to explore on foot, and a guided walking tour is an excellent way to do that.

We think that if you are going to do a walking tour in a city, the first day is the best, as you can ask your guide for local recommendations such as their favourite places to eat or get a coffee, as well as get suggestions for hidden gems you might not find in the guidebooks.

There are lots of operators offering tours in Paris. We’ve taken a number of walking tours with Context Travel , and have always loved their detailed tours. They have a number of tours available in Paris, and you get 10% off with this link . We particularly enjoyed their Hemingway themed walking tour of Paris.

We also love Take Walks walking tours, and they have recently launched a number of Paris Tours . For example, they have a full day Paris tour , although this would require you to significantly alter this itinerary.

If you have a Paris Pass, it comes with a choice of free walking tours , which is worth looking into.

Tour Montparnasse

Last on our list for your first day in Paris is a trip up the Tour Montparnasse . I recommend this to everyone going to Paris, as it is, in my opinion at least, the location with the best view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower.

This is particularly the case at sunset, so if you can time your visit for sunset, you will get to witness a wonderful sunset across the Eiffel Tower, and then watch the city lights come to life.

The observation level is across two levels, one is inside and one is outside. The outside area is surrounded by glass, but there are cutouts so you can get reflection-free shots of the view. You can also bring a tripod up here! No wonder therefore that it’s on my list of favourite Paris photography locations .

There’s a fee to go up Tour Montparnasse, but it’s free for holders of the Paris Pass . You can also buy individual tickets online in advance  here .

Paris Itinerary:  Day 2

Our second day in Paris takes in some more iconic sites including some of Paris’s most famous museums and churches. It’s quite a full day, so do feel free to edit the itinerary to suit your particular interests, pace and needs!

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, which is free to holders of the Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass .

You can also buy tickets online in advance here , which is highly recommended as it can get busy here. There’s also a combination ticket for Sainte Chapelle and the nearby Conciergerie here , which is worth visiting.

No more than ten minutes’ walk from Sainte Chapelle is Paris’s most famous religious building, known for her flying buttresses, twin towers and, of course, hunchback resident.

You will definitely see two out of those three when you visit Notre Dame , the major Catholic cathedral in Paris. Construction of this magnificent building took nearly two hundred years, and was completed in 1345.

Unfortunately, on April 15th 2019 a devastating fire seriously damaged Notre Dame. The cathedral will be closed for the foreseeable future as a result of this tragic incident.

We certainly think it is worth visiting the facade, but as you can’t go inside at the moment, you might wish to visit another nearby attraction like the Conciergerie (where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned) as well. You can get a combined ticket for that and Sainte Chapelle here

Musee d’Orsay

If you like museums, Paris has definitely gotten you covered. Our next stop is the Musee d’Orsay , but before you get here, you’re going to take a walk along Paris’s iconic left bank, from Notre Dame to the Musee d’Orsay. This isn’t too far, but you’ll see the booksellers and get a feel for this part of town.

Paris’s museums are quite logically set up, with three main art museums covering three distinct time periods.

The Musee d’Orsay, first on our list, covers art dating from the middle of the 19th century up to the early 20th century, and is home to masterpieces from the likes of Duchamp, Kandinsky and Picasso, to name but a few.

The Louvre (see below), covers the time period before this, whilst the Centre Pompidou covers the time period afterwards, right up to the modern day. The Centre Pompidou isn’t on this itinerary, but you could fit it in if you wanted to of course!

The Musee d’Orsay is absolutely stunning. It’s set in what was once one of Paris’s main train stations, and the grand central atrium is gorgeous – almost worth visiting in of itself.

There’s a fee to get in here, but holders of the Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass get free entry as well as skip the line privileges.

You can also buy tickets and tours online in advance here or on the official site here .

If you only visit one museum in Paris, I can highly recommend making it the Louvre . This is one of the world’s most famous museums, and is home to an incredible collection of art, including Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and Michelangelo’s Dying Slave, to name but a few.

Obviously, seeing the Mona Lisa is on the wishlist for many visitors, but this museum, which covers art from ancient times up to the middle of the 19th century, has obviously got a great deal more to offer. True art lovers could lose themselves for days in the vast collection here!

Of course, if that’s you, you are welcome to do the same, although for the purposes of this itinerary we’d probably recommend you try and limit your time to two to three hours so you can fit more of Paris in.

We’d also highly recommend that you pick up either a Paris Pass , Paris City Card or a Paris Museum Pass , which will give you fast-track access to the Louvre.

Note that in the busy times, which tend to be the summer periods especially, the Louvre gets very busy. In summer 2019, there were multiple days when the museum actually sold out, and only holders of advance purchase tickets or timed reservations were able to enter the museum.

If you have a Paris Pass or Paris Museum Pass , you must reserve your entry online on the official website . This is mandatory for holders of these passes 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.

If you have a Paris City Card , you’ll book the timeslot you want when you book the card.

If you do not have a pass, you can buy your ticket and reserve your entry time either on GetYourGuide here (where we normally get our tickets), or online on the official website here . We’ve sometimes found that GetYourGuide has availability even when the official site is out, so it’s always worth checking if you want to visit and can’t find tickets on the official site.

Whichever ticket you buy, you will still have to queue for security, but the line for people with tickets is a lot quicker moving than the general admission line. In addition, when the Louvre sells out on its official website, tickets will usually not be sold on site, so you may not be able to just turn up and queue – only holders of advance tickets will be given entry.

Note the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. See opening times and more on the official site here .

Wine tasting

When you think of France, a few things likely come to mind, and I suspect that wine is likely one of them. So why not take a break from the sight-seeing and museums, and indulge in a little wine tasting.

Conveniently located just by the Louvre Museum, the Caves du Louvre  is a wine-tasting experience which will guide you through the French wine making process and introduce you to a number of different French wines. Which you get to drink.

The tour is set in an actual 18th century wine cellar which originally housed the wine collection of the French King. Not a bad setting to learn about French wine we think!

There’s a fee for the tour (which includes the wine tasting), and it is included for holders of the Paris Pass. You can also book it separately here .

If you aren’t into wine tasting, there are a number of nearby cafes and restaurants where you can refresh and revive.

We can recommend afternoon tea at Le Meurice , the Ritz or the Hotel de Crillon if you like afternoon tea (see our guide to the best afternoon tea in Paris if so).

For a shorter and less expensive experience, the hot chocolate at Angelina Cafe is also superb.

Arc de Triomphe

We’re going to finish off the second day of our three-day Paris itinerary with a visit to the Arc de Triomphe , another of Paris’s iconic landmarks. From the Louvre you can either take public transport here, or you can walk up the Champs Elysees, Paris’s most famous shopping street.

The Arc de Triomphe, built in memory of those who died in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, is wonderfully photogenic.

From the top you get an excellent view of the city, which includes the roads spanning out into the distance and the Eiffel Tower.

As you journey up into the monument, you will also come to a museum which details some of its history. Below the monument, you will also find the tomb of the unknown soldier.

To get to the Arc de Triomphe, don’t try and cross the traffic roundabout. Head to one of the underpasses, and cross in safety.

Going up inside the Arc de Triomphe carries a fee, holders of the Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass get free access with skip the line privileges.

You can also book a ticket online in advance here , which is worth doing as the lines can get quite long.

Paris Itinerary:  Day 3

On the last day of our 3 day Paris itinerary we’re heading out of the city centre to take in one of Paris’s most famous Royal Palaces. We’re also including some extra sights in the city at the end if you can tear yourself away.

The really nice thing about having 3 days in Paris is that you have the flexibility to go a little further out of the centre. My suggestion for your third day is to visit Versailles , the incredible palace that was the seat of French political power and home to French Royalty, including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

To truly appreciate Versailles, I would suggest allocating at least half a day of your third day in Paris, if not more. There is easily enough to see here to fill an entire day, which is why we don’t recommend coming here on our two day Paris itinerary .

We suggest starting off by touring the Palace. You’ll want to get here for opening time, as this is a really popular tourist attraction and it gets busier as the day goes on. Once you have toured the Palace and seen such highlights as the incredible Hall of Mirrors and the Kings Grand Apartments, you can head outside, where there is a great deal more to see.

A walk in the incredible (and vast!) gardens is a must. We particularity enjoyed heading over to Marie Antoinette’s estate, which is a slightly quieter part of the gardens, and home to a small model farm, tucked away temples, and walking paths.

It’s very easy to spend a whole day exploring Versailles and the grounds, and don’t feel bad if you do, it’s totally worth it.

Visiting Versailles is quite easy, you can get a train (RER C) from central Paris to the Gare de Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche, and from the train station to the Palace it is a well sign-posted ten minute walk.

Fast-track entry to the Palace, Gardens and other Versailles attractions is included on the Paris Museum Pass – although you will still need to join the security line. You can also book tickets online here , or book a guided tour online here .

If you manage to tear yourself away from Versailles, my suggestion for finishing off your last day in Paris is to head to the Montmartre region. This is home to a large hill, atop which sits the glorious Sacre Coeur de Montmartre, another of Paris’s iconic buildings.

This area of Paris was particularly famous as being home to artists, and folks like Dali, Picasso and Hemingway all either lived or frequented this area.

It’s still popular with artists, and the Place du Teatre is the place in Montmartre is the place to go to get your portrait or caricature painted. Fans of Dali will also want to visit the Dali Exhibition , home of the largest collection of works by Dali in France.

Montmartre is a maze of cute little streets, cafes and shops. The Basilica is free to visit, if you get here in time, although there is a small fee if you want to climb the tower.

Montmartre is also a popular place to watch the sunset across the city, and what better way to finish your 3 days in Paris than by watching the sun set across this magical city from atop Montmartre?

3 Days in Paris Itinerary Map

To help you visualise our 3-day Paris itinerary we’ve put together this helpful map which shows the attractions for each day. You can access this on Google Maps here .

3 Days in Paris Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick day by day breakdown of all the sights this itinerary covers:

• Day 1 : Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise, Hop on Hop off Bus, Paris Walking Tour, Tour Montparnasse
• Day 2 : Sainte Chapelle, Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, The Louvre, Wine tasting, Arc de Triomphe
• Day 3: Versailles, Montmartre

Where to Stay in Paris

As you would expect from a major European capital city, Paris has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. We’ve stayed in a variety of places, from hotels to homestays to apartments.

Ideally you want to be fairly central if you can, to minimise your travel time. Our suggestion is to take a look at the listings for Paris on 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.

• Hotel Dress Code & Spa , a highly reviewed centrally located 4 star hotel right a few hundred yards from the opera house
• Hôtel Eiffel Turenne , a well rated 3* hotel within a ten minute walk of the Eiffel Tower
• Ateliers de Montmartre , an apartment in Montmartre with views of the Sacre Coeur
• The People – Paris Marais , a well-reviewed hostel in the Marais, one of our favourite parts of Paris to stay
• Hotel le Compostelle , a highly rated 3* hotel centrally located near the Louvre Museum

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 .

When to Visit Paris

We’re actually happy to visit Paris at pretty much any time of year, and this Paris itinerary would work at any time of year.

Summer brings sunshine and warmth, although of course the city is a lot busier at this time of year, so if crowds aren’t your thing, you might want to skip the summer months.

We also love Fall and Spring in the city, when the temperatures are a bit cooler and the crowds less. In the run up to Christmas, the city is beautifully decorated and some of the stores in particular are worth visiting just to see the elaborate decorations they put up. After Christmas the city is a lot quieter, and of course temperatures are at their lowest.

Ultimately, we think Paris is worth visiting whenever you can, so just decide how busy you can handle, and if you’d prefer it to be warm or cold, and go from there!

How to Get to and From Paris

As the capital of France, Paris has multiple options for visitors looking to visit. 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.

Paris Beauvais-Tille airport is where you will likely arrive if you are flying with a budget airline. This is some way out of the city centre, but regular shuttle buses are available to take you into the city.

Paris is also connected to the high-speed French and European rail network, and there are a number of train stations in central Paris. You can even travel from the UK by train, taking the channel tunnel to do so. See our guide to getting from London to Paris for more suggested options.

Finally, of course, you can reach Paris by car from France and the rest of Europe. Our advice would be to park your car in a secure long stay car-park on the outskirts of Paris and take public transport to the centre.

We recommend against driving in the city centre, as public transport is cheap and fast, and a lot easier than stressing about driving around the crowded city streets, and trying to find a parking space.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris has an excellent public transport network, and in particular the Paris Metro system is really good, getting you around all the major parts of the city at minimum cost. There’s also a good bus network, as well as local trains.

For public transport, you can purchase t+ tickets which allow for one-off travel on the Paris bus, RER trains and metros. These are available at train and metro stations using the ticket machines. These machines accept both credit cards and cash, and can be configured for English language.

Each ticket can be used for a single journey of up to 2 hours on the metro (including transfers) and 90 minutes on buses (including transfers). For more information on these tickets, see the official page .

From 2019, the Paris transport system has introduced the Navigo Easy Card. This is a rechargeable card system which is designed to replace the cardboard T+ tickets. A card costs €2 to buy, but allow you to buy a discounted pack of 10 tickets which will save you money if you do quite a bit of travel.

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-effectivee method of paying for transport as a visitor to Paris.

For more on getting around Paris, see our detailed guide to how to get around Paris , which should help you plan all your transport in the city.

Walking Tours of Paris

If you’d like to take a guided tour of Paris, the two companies we usually use are Take Walks and Context Travel . These both offer small group walking tours in Paris, which are a great way to learn about some of the sights and history of the city. Of course, if you decide to take a walking tour you will have to adjust the itinerary accordingly to suit.

If you were interested in a tour, Take Walks has this  Paris in a Day tour which includes a major Museum, the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre & a Seine River Cruise – an excellent introduction to the city!

Context travel offer a number of very focused tours of Paris , and these offer very specialised insights into particular subjects. We’d suggest maybe taking one of these for a specific area of interest that you really want to learn about, perhaps for Versailles . They also offer an introduction to Paris tour .

There are of course other options for various tours in Paris, including all the tours on this page , which offers a variety of things to do from different providers.

For example, there’s this delicious looking food tour ,  this in-depth tour of Hemingway locations in Paris or this tour of Montmartre .

So definitely check out the options to figure out what is best for you!

How to Save Money in Paris

Being a major European city, Paris is definitely not a budget destination. There are a few ways to save money of course, even on an itinerary as packed with attractions as this one is. Food is one way – rather than eating out for every meal for example, you could stay in an apartment or hostel that lets you cook your own meals.

If that’s not an option, consider having picnic lunches or breakfasts, and eating out in the evenings. Also, keep an eye out for the “menu du jour”, most restaurants offer a fixed lunch or evening menu which includes a number of dishes at a fixed price.

You can usually get a meal for between €12 & €25 which includes two or three courses, bread, and sometimes even wine or coffee. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Paris for lunch deals.

The cheapest way to get around Paris is to walk of course, followed by the excellent public transport system. We usually walk as much as we can, and then take the metro for the longer trips. Taxis can be convenient, but they will eat into your budget very quickly.

One of our favourite ways to save money when we visit a major city where we want to see a lot of sights is to invest in a city sightseeing pass. In Paris there are three main passes that we recommend, the Paris Pass ( buy yours from the official site here ), the Paris Museum Pass (buy here ) and the Paris City Card .

Calculating if a pass is worth it for you will of course depend on exactly which attractions you want to visit.

From our itinerary, here’s what’s included on which passes, as well the cost of individual tickets as of December 2023 and links to book each attraction directly.

• Eiffel Tower (€38 for guided tour, €11.30 for standard stair access ticket) – tour included on Paris City Card, Go Paris Pass and Paris Pass. Book tickets on the official website here
• Seine River Cruise (€18) – included on Paris City Card, Go Paris Pass and Paris Pass. Book online here .
• Hop on Hop off bus (€45) – included on Paris Pass. Book online here .
• Paris Walking Tour (~€35) – various options included on Paris Pass. Book online here .
• Tour Montparnasse (€19) – included on Paris Pass. Book online here .
• Sainte Chapelle (€11.5) – included on Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass. Book online here .
• Musee d’Orsay (€16) – included on Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass. Book online here .
• Louvre Museum (€17) – included on Paris Museum Pass and Paris City Card. Book on GetYourGuide here , or on the official site here .
• Wine Tasting (€35) – included on Go Paris Pass and Paris Pass. Book online here .
• Arc de Triomphe (€13) – included on Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass. Book online here .
• Versailles (€19.5) – included on Paris Pass and Paris Museum Pass. Book online here .

Adding all the above together and you are looking at around €270 in entry fees.

Our recommendation is to consider a 3-day Paris Pass.

We suggest the 3-day Paris Pass because it actually comes with a 2-day Paris Museum Pass.

With that, you get access to pretty much everything on our itinerary, as well as many more activities and attractions including more museums, walking tours, and even dining activities!

You just have to plan your itinerary so you visit the sites covered by the Paris Museum Pass on two out of your three days in Paris. Hint – we’ve already done that for you in our itinerary!

As of December 2023, a 3 day Paris Pass costs €194 for an adult, saving you around €75 per person if you do everything in our itinerary.

Of course, your individual situation will vary, and you might have different attractions you want to visit. In addition, you should be aware that if you are an EU citizen under the age of 26 that many attractions are free or discounted to visit (you need ID!).

Also, on the first Sunday of every month, many museums are free to visit – although very crowded as a result!

We think the Paris Pass can be good value for money ( click here to buy ), but do feel free to check out our detailed reviews of both the Paris Pass and the Paris Museum Pass , and come to your own decision as to what works for you!

You might also decide that purchasing individual tickets makes more sense. In that case, we highly recommend booking online in advance, especially for major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, which can get very busy and even sell out a long time in advance.

Finally, we can also suggest checking out the Paris City Card . This includes a guided Eiffel tower ticket, Seine River cruise and access to the Louvre. It also comes with an audioguide to Paris, as well as a further 10% discount on other Paris attractions.

This is a good option if you aren’t planning on visiting everything in our itinerary. It also has the advantage that you book the timeslots for the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower when you book the card, so can be convenient.

Practicalities for visiting Paris

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.

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.

Alternatively, consider 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.

Eating in Paris

If you want to eat at one of the more popular restaurants in Paris , we recommend that you book 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 restaurants a breeze, especially if you don’t speak French. Check it out here to find reviews, sample menus and book a table.

Further Reading for your 3 Days in Paris

We have visited Paris on a number of occasions, and have written a good deal about our experiences in the city. To help you further plan your stay in Paris, here are some of our favourite posts and external resources.

• A detailed guide to 2 Days in Paris , should you be there for a shorter period or are looking for some alternative options
• We also have a guide to spending a day in Paris , if you’re on a really tight schedule and just want to focus on the highlights
• We have a detailed guide to attending the famous Moulin Rouge show in Paris
• Our guide to the  best photography locations in Paris , to help you get the best shots on your trip
• A guide to  choosing a Seine river cruise , choosing a Seine River dinner cruise , buying Paris opera tickets ,  attending a fashion show in Paris  and our tips for  the best restaurants in Paris for lunch .
• Our  review of the Paris Pass  and the Paris Museum Pass to help you decide if these might save you money during your time in Paris
• 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.
• A guide to  Airbnb Alternatives  to help you find the right accommodation
• If you like afternoon tea, check out our definitive guide to the  best afternoon tea locations in Paris
• If you are heading out of town, check out our itinerary for 2 Days visiting Normandy and the D-Day beaches
• We have reviewed many travel related products you might find useful. Check out our guide to the best travel routers , best travel cameras and best travel wraps to get started!
• If you want a book, we always like to recommend the Rick Steves guides – here’s the  Rick Steves Paris  edition

And that’s it for our guide to spending 3 days in Paris! As always if you have any feedback or questions, just let us know in the comments below.

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Deidre Smith says

22nd December 2023 at 6:04 pm

We arrive at the paris airport at 8am on a Sunday, will have to get our luggage and take it to our hotel. I was hoping to be to hotel by 10am. I thought of doing: Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise, Hop on Hop off Bus, Notre Dame, Tour Montparnasse.

Monday: Sainte Chapelle, Musée d’Orsay, The Louvre, Catacombs, Arc de Triomphe (do Tour Montparnasse this day if didn’t have time on Sunday)

Tuesday: Versailles in the morning, leave to go get our luggage at hotel at 3pm, get to hotel at 4pm, get to airport by 5pm for 7pm flight to Venice.

I had to move Notre Dame on your days to Sunday, since it’s closed Monday. So my question is, is this doable? Second, I was going to get the Paris Pass but it seems that wouldn’t work on Versailles if I use it on Monday at Notre Dame, so is there a better pass for me to buy. I was worried if I bought the paris pass, and then used it to book Versailles, it might not work since it’s not consecutive days.

Laurence Norah says

22nd December 2023 at 6:47 pm

So, Notre Dame itself is not due to re-open until the end of 2024. The only area you can currently visit is the Crypt, which you are correct, is closed on Mondays. So I just wanted to clarify that that was what you meant.

For the general timing, if you don’t mind having quite a long day on the Monday you should be ok. My main concern would be that the Hop on Hop off bus is likely going to take a while (it’s a sightseeing experience rather than a quick way to get around the city). Also if you plan on using the Paris Pass or similar pass, you should be aware that some attractions are visited with a guided tour, specifically the Eiffel Tower. Those tours only run at specific times.

Given your schedule with Versailles on the Tuesday and the fact that the Paris Pass only comes with a 2 day Paris Museum Pass, you are correct that this might not be the best pass for you as the 2 day Musuem Pass would expire by Tuesday. One option would be to just get a 2 day Paris Museum Pass and use it for the Monday / Tuesday attractions. From your list it should cover everything except the Catacombs I believe. Then you could just book individual tickets for the other sights. There are passes which include some of the sights on your list such as the Go City Explorer Pass . However I honestly don’t think that it is going to offer better value than just booking individual tickets for each attraction.

I hope this helps, have an amazing time in Paris and let me know if I can offer any more help!

Catrina says

24th November 2023 at 3:13 pm

My husband and I will be celebrating our 20 year anniversary in March and are planning a trip to Paris! I love the 3 day itinerary, giving us a couple days to visit Disneyland Paris. I am interested in a budget friendly-ish stay that allows for a gorgeous view of the Eiffel Tower as in your photo above. Any way to narrow down my hotel/apartment search? Any info is greatly appreciated! Thanks for all the info already given. Super excited for our trip 🙂

24th November 2023 at 4:47 pm

Congratulations and your anniversary and what a lovely way to spend it 🙂 So there are definitely quite a few hotels and apartments with views of the Eiffel Tower. The downside is that properties are aware that this is a desirable feature, so these rooms tend to cost a bit more. We actually have a complete guide to the Eiffel Tower which has a section on recommended hotels , with many of them offering views.

We cen definitely personally recommend the Pullman , which has lovely views from many of the rooms.

Otherwise, your best option is going to be to search properties in the region of the Eiffel tower (like this search I’ve set up for you ). Any hotel or apartment with a view of the Eiffel Tower will definitely make that obvious in it’s description. You just want to be sure you book a room with a view of it, which should also be pretty clear in the room description!

I hope you have a wonderful time in Paris and if you have any more questions please let me know 🙂

Catrina Baugus says

28th November 2023 at 9:43 am

Thank you so much! This gives us a great place to start 🙂

G. Heartwell says

20th March 2023 at 4:32 pm

Thank you so much for the details on the 3 day Paris tour. Sounds perfect for starting a 7 day first visit.! My granddaughter and I are planning to go after the end of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris! Any helpful travel do s and don’ts for that time period?

24th March 2023 at 6:29 pm

It’s my pleasure. So the main advice I would give is to book any attractions you want to visit as far in advance as possible. This is especially the case for popular attractions like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower, which can book out months in advance at busier times of year. I’d also recommend picking a hotel with air-conditioning. It’s not always included, but summer in Paris can be hot so be sure to pick somewhere that specifically states it has A/C for a more comfortable stay.

Otherwise have a great time in Paris!

27th January 2023 at 12:07 am

Hello from snowy Toronto, Canada

My son (almost 18) and I would like to travel to France end of July for perhaps a week or so then on to England. With respect to France he wants to see the Eifel Tower and Louvre and from what I read a sunset river cruise would be great too. We can visit the Notre-Dame and anything else you suggest. I personally would then like to go south to Nice, Cannes etc. If we base ourselves in Paris for sites would you suggest base in Nice and branch from there to surrounding areas? Are Roven, Marselle and Carcassone (sp) worth visiting? Would you suggest other areas? Bordeaux looks beautiful but being that this isn’t a wine tour for myself I don’t want to visit this time. Any suggestions are much appreciated.

29th January 2023 at 9:21 am

It’s great to hear from you. So for Paris I think this guide should cover most of the highlights of what you want to see. For the south of France, it is definitely a good option to pick one or two locations as a base. However, it’s worth pointing out that France is quite a big country, so you will want to plan what you want to see. Carcassone is very pretty and definitely worth visiting, but it’s about 350 miles from Nice for example. So I think you would want to work out exactly what you wanted to see and then decide which location or locations makes the most logical sense. You will also want to figure out how you want to get around. The train network in France is very fast and good value, but it doesn’t go everywhere, so you might also consider hiring a car for example. With only a week total, I’d suggest picking one other location outside of Paris and focusing on that. Bordeaux would actually be a great option as it’s about 3 hours by fast train from Paris and there is plenty to see (lots of which doesn’t involve wine!).

Have a great trip 🙂

jacques Martial says

9th January 2023 at 3:26 am

Interesting site.. we have some friends visiting Paris for 3 days and we found your site.. Being a Parisian myself, I was surprised that you included Versailles and a Wine Tasting visit into your planning. Nothing against Versailles, it is a beautiful place but there is more to see in Paris that spending time in Versailles and tasting wine when you are not a drinker. Suggest that you give these visits as alternate. One suggestion: why don’t you have a Romantic 3 days in Paris planning? Many young couples may appreciate more for honeymoon, wedding anniversary or other. Thank you Jacques from Vancouver in Canada

11th January 2023 at 9:02 am

Hi Jacques,

Thanks for your input! We definitely appreciate that this itinerary will not work for everyone, and of course we always suggest folks adjust for their own personal interests and tastes. Many visitors to France do want to try French wine, hence the wine tasting. We also think Versailles is worth visiting with three days in Paris, but of course, everyone can make their own choice 🙂 Thanks for the idea about the romantic visit to Paris as well, we shall definitely consider that!

Marybeth says

5th January 2023 at 10:00 pm

Your information is fabulous! I will be traveling to France in June for a wedding. The wedding will take place in Provence. I plan on starting in Paris for at least 3 days. Then off to Lyon, Avignon and Provence. I am open to suggestions on what to see between Paris and Provence. Lastly, 3 or 4 days for Paris? My travel dates are a bit flexible. Thank you for any suggestions you may offer.

11th January 2023 at 9:32 am

Thanks Marybeth, and sorry for the slow response, we’re currently traveling in Uganda with limited internet!

Given your planned route from Paris to Avignon with a stop in Lyons, a few suggestions that might work for you are below. However, this depends on if you are driving or traveling by train.

Fontainebleau – most famous for Fontainebleau Palace. A nice quieter alternative to Versailles if you are not already visiting that on this trip.

Guédelon Castle near Treigny, France which is a 13th century castle they are building using traditional materials and methods

Dijon – heart of Burgundy region so lots of vineyards in area, city has a number of attractions like Musée des Beaux-Arts

Beaune – lovely walled town with cobblestones, distinctive tiled roofs and the Hôtel-Dieu Museum

3rd January 2023 at 3:09 am

Hi, Your itinerary is so great! Thank you for doing this as I plan to follow it. I’m going in February. I’d like to see the Eiffel Tower all lit up what’s the best time to get there? Thank you

3rd January 2023 at 4:46 pm

So the Eiffel Tower automatically lights up within 10 minutes of it getting dark. It’s an automated system that is based on the light. In February, the sunset in Paris is normally around 6pm (6.30pm at the end of the month), so anytime around then if you just want to see it lit up. It’s also worth noting that the tower also sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour once it’s been lit up, so that would likely take place at 7pm when you are there. I’d definitely recommend watching that as well!

Have a great time in Paris, let me know if you have any more questions! We also have a detailed guide to the Eiffel Tower you might find useful 🙂

Andrej ands Heather says

5th July 2022 at 4:58 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica Norah

We were planning the Paris trip, actually a trip to Europe, with the first stop in Paris. We found your web blog, read it carefully and decided to follow your advice in the detail. We stayed for 4 days and used 3 days Paris pass, it is good value for the money we paid for. That was the best decision we made!

We create our own itinerary, we scheduled our trips and we made it even more than we predict. We bought a weekly Navigo on arrival( it is good to have two photos with) and travel all around by public transport, a lot of walking up and downstairs( we are 50 and 51), but we managed. We are extremely grateful for your work and effort. Thank you, guys!

5th July 2022 at 11:12 am

Hi Andrej and Heather,

I am so pleased that you had a good time in Paris (and Europe!) and that you found our sites useful. It is very kind of you to take the time to stop by and let us know, it is very much appreciated. Also for the tip on the Navigo. Here’s to many more years of adventures ahead!

All the best,

6th June 2022 at 11:03 pm

So can I upgrade the Eiffel Tower tour to an elevator one all the way to the summit with the Paris pass? That says guided climbing tour only to the second floor. Thanks

7th June 2022 at 11:45 am

This is a great question! I reached out to Experience First who handle the tour that comes with the Paris Pass, and they responded as follows:

You can First book your tour with Paris pass through: https://www.exp1.com/paris-tours/book-with-pass/

Then, after booking you will receive an email with a Booking reference number which you can use it to upgrade to summit.

To Upgrade after booking : https://upgrade.exp1.com/

So in summary, yes, you can upgrade to the summit access tour with the Paris Pass, although obviously this will be subject to availability.

Have a great time in Paris!

13th November 2021 at 7:57 pm

My husband and I will be visiting Paris in a couple weeks for 4 days (Sun – Wed). This is our first time visiting France and working on a draft itinerary. I plan on getting the Paris Pass for the 1st 2 days so to include all the museum visits. Also your thoughts on doing the river cruise at night (Bateaux Parisiens Seine River) instead of during the day one.

Sunday – Bus hop, Eiffel Tower and late afternoon head to watch the sunset…Arc de Triomphe and do Tour Montparnasse Monday – Sainte Chapelle, Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, The Louvre, Wine tasting, River ride at sunset Tuesday – The catacombs or Montmartre then Versaille in the afternoon

Thanks in advance!

14th November 2021 at 11:10 am

Great to hear from you! Your plan sounds great to me. The only thing I’d mention, which might be obvious, is just to remember that in winter the sun sets around 5pm in Paris. I’m sure you factored that in, but just something to remember if you’re wanting to catch the sunset from the Tour Montparnasse.

It definitely sounds like you have arranged everything in a sensible order. I am not sure how busy Versailles is at the moment. In the old times visiting in the afternoon without a guided tour booked was a challenge due to the long ticket lines, but now they have timed tickets I suspect it’s less of an issue – we’ve not been since they introduced the time slots.

For the Seine River Cruise, we’ve done both day time cruises, sunset cruises and an evening dinner cruise. I think sunset is a good time as you get the mix of the city at day and at night, with the potential for a nice sky as well. If it was my first time, I’d probably not do a tour at night, just because it’s obviously dark and so harder to see everything. But that’s just my personal preference. Seeing everything lit up is lovely as well!

Let me know if you have any more questions, I’m happy to help! Have a wonderful trip to Paris – we’re planning to be there at the start of January 😀

amanda Pimm says

31st October 2021 at 4:12 pm

Hi , my husband and I plan to take my daughter and her friend to Paris next may 2022 for her 16th birthday. We have never been before and can’t speak any French, will this be a problem. I also wondered what pass would be good to buy for our 3 day sight seeing please. Would be very great full for any advice.

31st October 2021 at 6:33 pm

Great to hear from you. Let me do my best to answer your two questions.

In terms of not speaking French, this shouldn’t be a major problem, especially in Paris. It’s a popular part of the world with visitors, and English is widely spoken. However, I would say that you will likely have a better experience if you learn a few basic phrases, such as hello (bonjour), thank you (merci) please (s’il vous plait), and do you speak English (parlez vouz anglais). The Parisians have developed a bit of reputation for being rude to foreigners, but in my experience, if you start off with a simple “bonjour”, they will pretty much instantly realise that you are not a native speaker, and nine times out of ten they’ll respond in English. However, if you start in English, they’ll be less receptive. I guess you could imagine the reception if it were reversed, and a French person arriving in the UK or USA and trying to start a conversation in French. So even learning “hello” can be a bit step in getting things off on the right foot!

For city cards, this will very much depend on what you want to see. For most visitors, a trip to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and a Seine River Cruise are popular, so the Paris City Card is a good starting point as it includes those things. You then get a 10% discount for additional attractions you book through the site. If you plan to see more sights, then you might instead consider the Paris Pass , which includes a lot more attractions and activities, but it will definitely depend on what you plan to do to make sure it is good value. For example, if you plan to do most of the attractions in this itinerary, it will likely offer cost savings.

I hope this helps, have a great trip to Paris and let me know if you have any more questions!

21st April 2020 at 11:55 pm

Exploring the City of Love is such a dream come true! This 3-day Itinerary in Paris is such a great help to those who are planning to discover Paris. Thanks for sharing, nice article.

22nd April 2020 at 10:36 am

Thanks James!

rj digma says

11th February 2020 at 7:08 pm

Great site. Very helpful. One question, if I buy the paris museum pass but want to hire a private guide to take us to the museums and give us art history info, would you know someone.

11th February 2020 at 11:20 pm

Thanks very much! We don’t know any private guides personally, however we have regularly used Context Travel , who do provide private guides, so that would be worth looking into.

Good luck, and have a great time in Paris!

Veronica Webster says

1st February 2020 at 11:36 pm

Hi Laurence, We have already cleared doubts with Jessica about our London trip, and now we’re working on the Paris part. We will be visiting Paris from March 27th to April 1st. Arriving on Friday around 11:00 am. We know that being a weekend everything will be more crowded, but it is what it is. We have made our numbers and we’re thinking that the Museum Pass will work better, given that the Paris Pass 3 days only includes 2 days museums, and we have actually 4.5 days, so not really need to fit all museums in 2 days (and we’re visiting Versailles too) My question is: The delivery options for the Museum pass is pick up at arrival or Fedex (24euros to Canada). If we arrive on a Friday, if I want to reserve time slot for Louvre on Saturday, is there’s a risk I won’t find available the time I’m looking for? Same for Orsay on Sunday morning (we want to be there for both at 9:00 am) Given that we would be already saving time by avoiding lines and buying the tickets, the 24 euros fee to have the pass with us sooner and book weeks ahead sound like a reasonable option. Your thoughts please?

here’s a draft of our trip: Friday after 1 pm: Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise (we pay for those 2) Sat: Louvre (9am, museum pass), Hop OnOff (we pay) Champs E./Arc the T (mpass) Sun: Orsay (9am mpass) Montmartre Mo: Saint Chapelle (mpass), Notre Dame (just views), Pantheon (mpass), Invalides (mpass) Tu: Versailles (mpass) – We think Versailles will be less crowded on Tu, but we could switch this to Sunday.

Thank you in advance to you and Jessica! your blog has been very useful to plan this trip!!

2nd February 2020 at 3:32 pm

Hi Veronica,

Thanks for your comment. To answer your question, for the Louvre, it has become very popular, and if you want to guarantee a particular time for your entry, then paying for the delivery of the museum pass is definitely going to be the way to do that. You need the number on the pass in order to make the reservation, which obviously you will need the pass for. If you decide to do this, make sure you bring both the pass and proof of reservation with you, and then join the correct line at the Louvre for those with reservations.

Of course, Paris in March / April is not as busy as it is over the summer months, so it may be that the Louvre has plenty of availability. However, it’s all down to your personal risk preference 😉

For the Musee d’Orsay, as far as we know you can’t book in advance with this museum, you just turn up with your pass. This is the case for most of the museums in Paris, it’s only the Louvre that has the timed requirement due to its popularity.

For Versailles, the weekends are usually very busy, however, bear in mind that many sights in Paris are also closed on Tuesdays (like the Louvre), so this also means more folks head out to Versailles. We would urge you to arrive early at Versailles, as the lines can get very very long for entry. Again, March / April should not be *too* busy, but it is best to err on the side of caution in our experience!

You have done a great job with the itinerary, putting the busiest places first 🙂 Let us know if you have any more questions and we’ll try to help. Have a fantastic trip – do feel free to join our facebook group and share your experiences in our friendly facebook group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/ 🙂

Afitha says

31st August 2019 at 12:47 pm

Hi Laurence, Me and my husband will be going to paris-switzerland-italy for 11 days trip..pls gve me an advise regarding howmany days we will stay per country…eagerly waiting for ur reply..TIA

2nd September 2019 at 6:12 am

It really depends on which cities you want to visit and your personal interests. I haven’t visited Switzerland for a while but I would say if you were to do something like Paris for 3 days, then Switzerland for 3-4 days, then Italy for 4-5 days. I would suggest with that much time that you could visit 2 cities in Italy, so I’d say maybe Rome and Venice. You could also base in Rome and do day trips to places like Florence.

Have a great time!

19th August 2019 at 11:55 am

Hello Laurence and Jessica, I’m planning to go on a solo trip on January 2020 to Paris (and going to Italy). It will be my first time in Europe, and I’m very excited. I know it’s winter and it will be very cold, but I was wondering if you have any tips for a 21 year old solo female traveller? I’m planning to book an AirBnB so I can also cook some meals to be able to save some money. How much do you think I need for the three day sightseeing in Paris alone? I’m hoping to hear from you guys soon. Thank you.

19th August 2019 at 12:01 pm

So I will briefly answer your question on solo female travel. We definitely aren’t experts in that area as we usually travel as a couple, however, Paris is no more or less safe than other major western European cities, so if you practice the same sort of safety precautions that you would in your own home cities, then you shouldn’t have any problems.

For budget, January is not too busy in Paris so you should be able to find an apartment on AirBnb in the region of $60 – $100 a night. The other main costs will be food and sightseeing. For food, lunch is the best time to go out for meals generally as restaurants tend to have fixed price menus. So if you do choose to dine out during your stay, we’d recommend doing so at lunch. Otherwise we suggest croissants from a bakery for breakfast and there are lots of supermarkets for picking up supplies for cooking 🙂

Sightseeing will be your other major costs. The price will obviously vary depending on exactly what you want to do and see. If you plan on going inside many museums and attractions, then we recommend either the Paris Pass or Paris Museum Pass. The best one for you will depend on what you want to see. Note that neither of them includes Eiffel tower access. If you want to go up the Eiffel Tower, the cheapest way is to buy second floor tickets with stair access. You can do this online or in person – see our full Eiffel Tower guide for more on that.

https://independenttravelcats.com/eiffel-tower-paris-france/

Overall, I would say that if you budget $60 – $100 a day for accommodation, $20 – $50 a day for attractions and $15 – $30 a day on food that would be reasonable. Of course, you could go above or below these figures based on your own preference, but that is a ballpark.

Have a great time in Paris, and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any more questions!

29th July 2019 at 4:15 am

I am looking into going to Paris July 3-5 2020. I have never traveled or anything else like that how would I go about making sure I had enough money. Thank you in advance.

29th July 2019 at 7:42 pm

Well, that’s quite a big question 🙂 It will depend a bit on your travel style (hostel – luxury hotel), what attractions you want to see and what sort of food you want to eat. Also how you get around, from walking -> taxis. The main costs will be your flight to and from Paris, your accommodation, and then your sight-seeing and food costs. It’s hard to give an exact number as everyone will be different, but if you take a look at my guide to the costs for travelling in the UK, this will give you an idea of what to estimate. Paris will be a bit more expensive, as capital cities often are, but you should at least get a rough estimate. You can see that guide here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/cost-travel-uk/

Let me know if you have any more questions!

29th July 2019 at 9:34 pm

Thank u so much I’ll check that link in just a few when I have a bit more time ????????

7th July 2019 at 3:57 am

Hi Laurence!

My husband and I will be going to Paris for six days in October. However, it’s our first time there, and I’m starting to think that we might have too many days in Paris and we might run out of activities.

Any suggestions or thoughts on that based on your experience?

9th July 2019 at 3:42 pm

You definitely won’t run out of things to do. I have just covered the major highlights in this post – there is so much more to the city! We usually visit for 5-7 days at a time, and have done so multiple times, and have never run out of things to do!

9th September 2019 at 11:13 pm

My sister and I who are in our 70 are going on a river cruise with Viking on Oct 6 an want to come in a few days early.. What hotel and tours . Is the show mon la rougue still there as I saw it 20 years and want to see it again.

11th September 2019 at 5:50 pm

Thanks for your e-mail. So the hotel you choose will very much depend on your budget, but we have some suggestions in this post for you to choose from. If you’d like to stay near the Eiffel Tower, we also have a lot of suggestions in our guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower, which you can read here . Of course, you might want to find out where your cruise departs from so you are not too far away.

The Moulin Rouge is still very much in operation, and we visited quite recently. You do need to book in advance, I have a full guide to the Moulin Rouge here which you might find helpful.

Rupali says

25th June 2019 at 2:47 pm

Hi I really like the detailed itinerary. It very good to look if you are planning the trip to Paris in advance. I would like to know if the Paris pass includes guided tours or some discount on guided tours in the museums? Also, if now do you think it is worth to take the guided tours to know about the significance of that place.

25th June 2019 at 3:20 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 So some city passes do include discounts on walking tours. However, the Paris Pass does not include many discounted guided tours. Looking at the inclusions, it includes a Montmartre walking tour, as well as discounts on a Segway tour, cycling tour and Citroen 2CV tour. It also includes the guided Opera Garnier tour. You can see some of the tours it includes on this page – just filter by Paris tours.

So if you want to do a guided tour of the museums, or a guided tour in Paris in general, then you would want to book that separately. I do think that a guided tour is a good way to learn about the city, and I link to some suggested walking tours in the post. It’s really up to you though if you want to do that. If you take a full day walking tour of Paris, then you might not find the Paris Pass offers such good value as most tours include entry to a number of attractions.

Let me know if I can be of any more help!

9th June 2019 at 7:07 pm

Hi Laurence, We stumbled across your blog recently while planning for our trip to Paris in September this fall. We enjoyed reading it. We will be arriving Paris on a Wednesday morning and leaving by plane on a Saturday 5:50pm flight. On Thursday we’ve booked a Versailles morning tour that ends 1:45pm and on Saturday morning we’ve booked the Louvre tour that ends 12:45 pm, then we will retrieve our luggage from hotel and on to the airport. Questions: Should we stay at a hotel that is near the Louvre for our convenience of Saturday’s luggage retrieval before airport Or should we stay at a hotel that is a short walk to the Hop on Hop off bus route so we can visit most of the top attraction via the bus and not to let the luggage retrieval limit the hotel location ? Could you please give us a few hotels suggestions and what top attractions we can fit in our schedule?

9th June 2019 at 8:53 pm

Thanks for your comment!

So, I think it’s up to you in regard to the hotel location. However, as the Louvre is a popular location for visitors, most Hop on Hop off buses will have a stop close by. So you can do both – just pick a hotel close to the Louvre and it will also be close to the Hop on Hop off bus.

In terms of specific hotels, it’s hard to give advice without a budget. I’d suggest using this link to start , and then narrowing your filter by price, date and what type of accommodation you are looking for. I’d generally also suggest looking for properties with a good review score, ideally an 8 or higher 🙂

PS – sorry about the slow response, we’ve been travelling for the past few days with limited internet 😀

Angela B says

9th June 2019 at 3:30 pm

Laurence & Jessica, Such an amazing and thorough explanation. My daughter (13) and I will be arriving into Paris next Sunday (16th) to watch USA play in the World Cup. My husband will be working the Paris Air Show, so my daughter and I have 3 days (17-19) to ourselves, meeting my husband at night for dinner and sightseeing. I think we will do the 3 day tour with Versailles on the last day. Based on this itinerary, does the 3 Day Paris Pass still make the best option? I am guessing it does since it includes travel, entrance, and skipping lines. We are sooooo excited!!!!! Angela

9th June 2019 at 8:57 pm

Thank you so much Angela – sounds like you’ve got a great trip coming up!

So I would say that the Paris Pass would make sense if you intend on using the various additional features it offers like the Seine Cruise, transport and so on. The one thing to be aware of is that whilst the pass is three days, it only includes a 2 day museum pass. And that pass is what you will use for places like the Louvre, Versailles and so on.

I have structured this itinerary to account for that, however, if you want to move things around, it might make less sense, and instead you might consider the 4 day Paris Museum Pass, and then a separate travel card. Of course, it’s up to you.

We have a full review of both types of pass if you would like some further reading to help you decide! They are at the following links:

https://independenttravelcats.com/tips-buying-using-paris-museum-pass/ https://independenttravelcats.com/buying-paris-pass-review-worth-it-tips/

Sumona says

30th May 2019 at 5:31 pm

Thank you so much for writing this. Really helpful and very well written!

30th May 2019 at 5:38 pm

Thank you very much Sumona – have a wonderful trip to Paris and do let us know if you have any questions 🙂

17th May 2019 at 4:52 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica! I am travelling to Paris soon and your elaborate writing and practical tips is what exactly I was looking for. Brilliant! Thanks : )

17th May 2019 at 5:53 pm

Thank you very much Jasma – have a wonderful time in Paris! Do let us know how you enjoy the city 🙂

17th May 2019 at 7:27 pm

I will sure have a good time in the City of love . Also, Your expert advice on the accommodation pls- the place I am planning to stay is at Courbevoie. Per the owner it says 10 mins to Paris. Do you think during my stay at Paris for 3-4 days this place will be in proximity to the list you had advised in your blog. Thanks Jasma

17th May 2019 at 7:33 pm

It’s hard to tell as Courbevoie is a little bit outside the city centre, and so it will depend on which metro or train station you are near, and how far it is to the metro station. In a best case scenario it will be 10 minutes to the Arc de Triomphe, in a worse case scenario, more like 40 minutes. The Arc de Triomphe is the closest attraction in our itinerary though to Courbevoie, other attractions are further away. So it is definitely not the most convenient location, but it will work. However, if you can find somewhere more central it might work out more easily for you.

18th May 2019 at 3:33 pm

Thanks a million Laurence. You are doing a great job and I truly appreciate it. Regards, Jasma

Godfrey says

29th March 2019 at 8:41 pm

You guys are amazing..just about saved me hours of research into finding things to do in 3 days…This is exactly what fits within our 3 day visit..Keep up the great work!

30th March 2019 at 12:12 am

Thanks Godfrey – we will certainly try! Have a lovely trip to Paris and let us know if we can be of any help!

22nd February 2019 at 5:50 pm

hi! I like your blog,it’s very informative and easy to follow. but can I just know, roughly how much do we need to prepare? I mean if Im a big spender how much money will I probably spend for the tours? excluding the food. I would really appreciate if you could give me the figure so we can save for it. thanks! ☺️

23rd February 2019 at 7:25 am

It’s really hard to give figures as budgets vary greatly between people. So you can see from the tours I have suggested what they cost, and also if you buy one of the passes then many of the attractions will be included. So then your other costs will be accommodation and food. For this itinerary, including food and accommodation, you would probably be looking in the region of €500 – €1000 per person, but that would vary hugely depending on your tastes and accommodation quality.

I hope this helps a bit!

Anjana says

12th February 2019 at 11:17 pm

Hello. I liked the itinerary you suggested. We are planning to be there by mid April. Can you please guide us for weather. Also, I am an artist and wish to visit art gallary, can you please suggest?

13th February 2019 at 9:05 pm

The weather in Paris in April will be fairly warm, like around 17 – 22C. It might be cooler in evenings. Rain is always a possibility, but you would be unlucky if it rained a lot.

If you want to visit an art gallery, I would suggest the Louvre, or the Centre Pompidou if you prefer modern art!

12th February 2019 at 4:52 pm

How to get Paris Pass and the bus passes. Required details about the inclusions and exclusions of the Paris Pass .

12th February 2019 at 5:28 pm

You can buy the Paris Pass with this link .

You can see the inclusions here .

Enjoy your time in Paris!

12th February 2019 at 5:31 pm

Thank you so much.. I will sure be in touch with you if i require any more details .

Regards Shree

13th February 2019 at 7:45 am

Hi Is it mandatory to get the paris pass before hand or the same can be availed after reaching the destination as well..

13th February 2019 at 7:09 pm

You can buy the pass in Paris as well, but they don’t offer sales as they sometimes do online,

Amanda Che says

19th December 2018 at 3:09 am

If I want to visit Montparnasse will I need to purchase tickets if I have the Paris pass? Or do we just show up and they will let us in at whatever time?

19th December 2018 at 8:03 pm

If you have the Paris Pass the Tour Montparnasse is included, so you can just turn up at any time and they will let you in. It’s best at sunset if you can make it them!

Have a great trip

19th December 2018 at 10:02 pm

Thank you for responding!! I’m glad I got he passes! Does this apply to the wine tasting as well?! I’m just not sure about the places that have specific times that need reservations when visiting.

19th December 2018 at 11:10 pm

My pleasure! The wine tasting was the same when we used the Paris Pass – we just turned up and it was fine. However, if you have any doubts you can always reach out to either the attraction or Paris Pass folks to confirm 😀

24th October 2018 at 9:29 pm

Thank you so much for making my life easy!!! You have the best detailed itineraray in Paris. I purchased the 3 day Paris Pass. 🙂 I’m so excited to visit next month!

25th October 2018 at 8:13 pm

Thanks so much! Have an awesome trip 😀

Evelyne says

23rd October 2018 at 10:23 am

Hello, I am a Parisian and I read your post. I think this itinerary is very heavy (espécially days 2) unless you don’t visit the museums and just shoot the buildings. It is just an accumulation of monuments to visit but it does not give the feel of what is Paris. Fortunately, Paris is not just an opan air museum.

23rd October 2018 at 1:03 pm

Hey Evelyne!

Thanks for your feedback. I definitely make that clear at the beginning that this is a very busy itinerary, and people should adjust to suit their own pace 🙂 We usually visit Paris for no less than seven days at a time when putting these posts together, but we know not everyone has that luxury, so we try to fit everything in that people might want to see, based on our conversations with folks planning a trip 🙂

Thanks for stopping by!

kunal gupta says

30th September 2018 at 10:45 am

After having read so many posts, I felt this is the best post. It has all the tips, recommendations and anecdotes that I was looking for to create an itinerary. I am visiting Paris next month and will surely provide you guys my feedback on the experience.

Any tips on finding Indian or vegetarian lunch/dinner will be extremely helpful too !

1st October 2018 at 2:26 pm

Thanks Kunal! I’m not personally an expert on vegetarian dining, but the search engine happycow.net lists vegetarian restaurants around the world, so that would be a good place to look 🙂 Have a great trip!

Kritika says

13th September 2018 at 8:22 am

Hi, Your blog is one simple answer to all the queries I had while planning for my trip. 🙂 We are a couple visiting Paris from 29 Sept to Oct1. We would like to visit a vineyard and taste wine over there. Do you have any information regarding any vineyard nearby and how to commute? Also, We would be going to Lyon for a day. Can you suggest me a short itinerary for the same?

Regards Kritika

13th September 2018 at 11:47 am

Hi Kritika!

Thanks very much, we are happy to have been of help 🙂 We would suggest that the closest wine region to Paris is going to be the Champagne region, and the easiest way to get there would be to take a tour from Paris, which will save you figuring out transport. Plus someone else will drive, leaving you to enjoy the wine 🙂 I found this one which has good reviews so that would be my suggestion, although there are sure to be other options!

For Lyon, we haven’t visited there yet, so I can’t make any recommendations unfortunately 🙁

Have a great trip!

9th September 2018 at 7:25 am

Hi! Just read your wonderful article helps out a lot we are a family of 6..would metro\bus be cheaper or renting a car..staying in a hotel near cdg since all the good/affordable ones are taken near the center….and how I the weather in the end of September? 6 days all Together and Disneyland is included please let me know confused about driving and or bus thanks 🙂

9th September 2018 at 11:38 am

I would recommend against hiring a car as driving in Paris is not so much fun, plus you will have to spend time finding parking and paying for it. Instead I would recommend either taking the metro, or hiring a taxi to take you in. For a group of people, you would have to find the right size of taxi of course, but it should be possible. For Disneyland, the easiest way is the RER from Paris.

The weather in Paris in September should be quite good, not too hot but not too cold, I would say around 12 – 22C, so you will want to have some warmer clothes for the evenings. There is always the possibility of rain as well, so a rain jacket or umbrella would be wise 🙂

Hope this helps!

Susan Morris says

30th August 2018 at 4:14 am

Hi, I have just read your 3-day itinerary for Paris, and I thought it was awesome. Very clear and easy to follow. I look forward to following it when we head to Paris next year! My husband is also keen to visit the area of the D-Day landings at Normandy (Omaha Beach I believe). Do you have any similar itineraries or advice for a 1 or 2 day visit to that area? Many thanks

30th August 2018 at 10:50 am

Thanks very much Susan. We certainly do, we have a two day itinerary which we think you should find useful 🙂

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/normandy-2-day-itinerary-d-day-beaches-mont-st-michel/

24th August 2018 at 9:15 pm

Hi I am traveling to Paris in second week of oct 18… what would be the climate that time? Do I need to carry a lot of winter clothing?

24th August 2018 at 9:26 pm

October in Europe varies. I’d say the best option is to bring layers, and to have sufficiently warm clothes for cold weather and rain in particualr. The temperature will likely be between 5 degrees C and 15 degrees C, although if it is windy it might feel a lot colder. So it’s not like visiting Iceland or Finland in winter, but you’ll want to be prepared.

I don’t have a guide for Paris, but we do have a packing list for London at any time of year, which should help a bit:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/london-packing-list-what-to-pack-for-london-and-the-uk-at-any-time-of-year/

Qinwan says

22nd July 2018 at 1:02 pm

Hi Laurence, I am planning my visit to Paris in Oct 2018, the blog of 3 days itinerary is very much helpful and perfect for my plan. Where do you recommend to proceed after Paris for a 10 day Europe trip?

22nd July 2018 at 9:31 pm

Awesome! Well, if this if your first time in Europe, I’d probably recommend some of the other capital cities, like London or Rome, and then maybe Barcelona, depending on how much time you want to spend in each location. You can easily spend three or four days in both Rome and London. From Paris to London it’s an easy journey, as you can take the train direct. Then there are mutliple flights from London to Rome. If you like the sound of Barcelona, there’s an overnight train from Paris straight to Barcelona. Another idea might be to do Paris – > London, Edinburgh and then a bit of Scotland as well.

I’d definitely suggest not trying to see too much, and spending a bit longer in each location. Three days is a nice amount of time to see a city 🙂

Have an awesome trip!

Elizabeth Higgins says

22nd July 2018 at 5:26 am

This post is just so detail-oriented, Laurence! Any reader would not be having a difficult time browsing because you have also included hyperlinks to the sub-sections. Everything has just been written so wonderfully that I felt spoon-fed with information, in a really great way. I am so glad to find your blog! Thank you so much!

22nd July 2018 at 8:54 pm

Hi Elizabeth – thanks so much! It’s always wonderful to hear that people are finding our posts helpful! Hopefully you have a great trip, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Laurence

Tisaygwapa says

9th July 2018 at 9:56 am

Hi, I am a fan of your blog. My planning for my euro trip makes it easier. I have an inquiry though, can you tell me what is the difference between and Paris Pass and a Paris Explorer pass? What airport is near to the attraction on day1?

We will be in Paris for 3 days.

9th July 2018 at 10:03 am

Hi Tisaygwapa 🙂

Thanks very much! The Paris Explorer Pass is a much more limited pass, and instead of giving you free access to all the attractions, it lets you choose from 3, 5 or 7 attractions. For our itinerary, we definitely suggest either the Paris Pass or the Paris Museum Pass for cost saving.

For airports, Paris has three major airports. The two closest to the city and that most people arrive at are Paris Orly and Paris Charles De Gaulle.

From Paris Orly to the Eiffel tower you can take the Ouibus, it only takes around 16 minutes: https://www.ouibus.com/routes/paris-paris-orly-sud-airport

Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is a little further away, you can take the RER train from the airport – it’s probably more like an hour.

Shashank says

20th June 2018 at 5:11 pm

Hi, would like to know if we can walk in directly to Bateux Parisiens any time with the Paris Pass? Do we need to reserve online even if we have the Paris Pass?

20th June 2018 at 7:03 pm

Hi Shashank!

In our experience you can just walk up and show your pass at the ticket booth, no reservation required 🙂

Hope this helps – have a great trip!

18th June 2018 at 9:29 am

I would like to know more details of 3 day Itinerary . In the mentioned Places , how long it will take? that is regarding time span we can spent there comfortably .Can u pls suggest

20th June 2018 at 7:10 pm

IT’s really up to you and your interests as to how long you want to take. The itinerary as laid out is doable, but if you spend four hours at each location, obviously not so much 🙂 So my advice would be to look at each location and decide how much time you would like to spend their. As an example, Sainte Chapelle is quite small, so 15 – 20 minutes would be fine. The Louvre is gigantic, so will take a bit longer! But it’s really up to you 🙂

Karuna says

11th June 2018 at 5:31 pm

Thanks a lot, we are planning to visit Paris, and Italy for 12 days of vacation and this is very helpful for Paris. Can we have an advice on Hotels where we can stay like 4* hotels work walk around to these attractions if possible or nice evening walks?

And can we have an itinerary for Italy for 9-10 days trip,

Thanks a lot

11th June 2018 at 11:29 pm

Thanks very much! In the post I do link to a centrally located 4* hotel, under the accommodation section. The hotel is this one, but I’m sure you can find some other options 🙂

http://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/dress-code-amp-spa.html?aid=385205&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1&label=FTU3DaysinParis

I will update the post in the next few weeks with some more specific recommendations. For the Italy guide, I will add an itinerary to the to do list, you should subscribe to the blog so you get notified of future posts and don’t miss out.

Sunil Chawla says

31st May 2018 at 8:44 am

I will be travelling to Paris with my wife in the month of August. This detailed information will surely be helpful to plan our trip Thank you very much Sunil Chawla India

31st May 2018 at 7:23 pm

Thanks Sunil! Have a great trip 🙂

Chitra Shah says

16th May 2018 at 8:36 pm

I am travelling with my husband and 2 kids ( 7 years and 1 year) to Paris in June. This is exactly what I was looking for, Thanks you. Do you think Paris is stroller – friendly or you recommend a baby carrier.

17th May 2018 at 9:26 am

Thanks Chitra! I must preface my response by saying that we don’t have kids, so haven’t faced this problem 😉 Certainly, part of Paris would be stroller friendly, but things like the metro for example are definitely not easy for stroller access as there are often only stair entrances and exits. So a baby carrier might be easier, depending on how you want to get around the city. I hope this helps a bit – have a great trip!

3rd May 2018 at 7:51 pm

This is one of the best, well elaborated and detailed article. Thank you for putting up so much effort and sharing your experience. It is indeed a great help!

3rd May 2018 at 8:35 pm

Thank you very much 😀

Nitin Bansal says

21st April 2018 at 7:15 pm

That’s a brilliant detailed summary of 3 day Paris itinerary. I am travelling to Paris soon although for a short time and will be looking forward to cover most of the places from your list here.

22nd April 2018 at 10:17 am

Thanks very much Nitin – have a great trip 😀

kristin says

28th March 2018 at 2:25 pm

I envy you guys living in Edi and being able to jet away for so many long weekend trips for cheap! I was pricing Europe from Nashville this summer, and I can’t find anything for under $1000, no matter the hub I fly into =/

29th March 2018 at 9:49 am

We are lucky on that front for sure 😀

Matheresa says

21st March 2018 at 7:49 pm

To go through in u’ll article/blogging i find it very informative and the easiest way for me to make my itinerary,,, specially i saw the Spain article but i didn’t leave a comment there coz of wanted to check for paris too,,, Spain features was fantastic keep it up LOVERS all the best in your Wanderlust started to following u’ll…

22nd March 2018 at 9:19 am

Thanks very much Mathresa 🙂 Have a wonderful trip!

kazim Gurmani says

19th March 2018 at 1:53 pm

The amazing place for the lovers. You guys are so lucky enjoying all this

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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”

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How to Spend 3 Days in Paris — Luxury Hotels, Natural Wine Spots, and Under-the-radar Museums Included

From picturesque walks to souvenir shopping, a longtime Francophile shares her ideal three-day Paris itinerary.

Sophie Dodd/Travel + Leisure

On a recent layover in Paris, I spent 15 minutes weeping outside a boulangerie, hands clutching my croissant like a stress ball as I spiraled into decision-paralysis mode. How do I make the most of 24 hours here? I asked myself, my mind racing over how to fit a week’s worth of explorations into one day. The answer ended up being: Stop stressing. Walk around. Eat the crushed croissant, and drink a glass of wine with lunch. 

Paris provides endless temptations: art and architecture, Michelin-star restaurants, unrivaled vintage shopping, fantastic hotels , and four-euro wine. There’s no way to do it all, so allowing yourself some grace to wander aimlessly — the French call it flânerie — is key to making the most of your trip. To that end, I suggest basing yourself around the incredibly walkable Marais, which marries classic Parisian architecture with hip restaurants and shops. I’d spring for the new cool-kid hideaway, Le Grand Mazarin , a maximalist hotel that boasts an indoor pool and hammam to revive you after a long day. 

Here, I’ve curated a jam-packed three-day itinerary for a quick trip to Paris , in a bid to prevent myself and everyone else from ever ruining a perfectly good croissant out of choice-anxiety again. Pick what works for you, skip what doesn’t (but not Musée Bourdelle ). Keep in mind that much of the city’s attractions and restaurants close on Sunday and/or Monday, so be sure to check their hours in advance. Whatever you do, I hope you people-watch at a cafe somewhere, lingering long enough to convince yourself you might be picking up French by osmosis. I hope you notice how the limestone avenues absorb the light, and maybe a little piece of you, too. 

Sophie Dodd/Travel + Leisure

After an overnight flight, I always start my day with my favorite French comfort food: a galette complète from Breizh Café , which has several outposts around the city that whip up some of the best buckwheat crepes in Paris. Tucking into their famous complète oignons — layers of ham and Comté cheese topped with a sunny-side up egg and onions decadently caramelized in cider from Brittany — is the warmest welcome you’ll find in the French capital.   

Walk off your breakfast with a stroll through the Marais , making your way toward beloved concept store Merci to satisfy all your souvenir needs, from stationery to expertly curated home goods, clothing, and beyond. If jet lag is setting in, grab a coffee at their Used Book Café , or down the road at the oft-Instagrammed Boot Café . 

Mosey over to Place des Vosges, the oldest square in the city. In the warmer months, it’s a lively picnic destination for locals and tourists alike. The manicured trees, stone fountains, and red brick archways surrounding the leafy square are stunning from any angle, but if you’re looking to experience the square’s royal history from a whole new perspective, consider splurging on a room at Cour des Vosges . The refined five-star hotel offers luxuriously intimate accommodations without fuss or ostentation — plus, exclusive views onto the square from the comfort of your bed. 

Hidden just beyond the square are the courtyard and gardens of the Hôtel de Sully, a quieter green space offering a wonderful respite from the bustling Rue Saint-Antoine. From there, walk down to the Seine river and cross over to Île Saint-Louis, a jewel-sized island where you can admire the elegant 17th-century architecture and stop by L’Étiquette , a beloved natural wine spot that offers takeaway bottles and wine tastings with the owner, Hervé. 

While the Notre-Dame cathedral is still under renovation (it’s set to reopen in December 2024 ), you can still admire its striking Gothic facade before walking to nearby Shakespeare and Company , the city’s famous English-language bookstore. 

Post up at the counter of L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre for a light lunch of Basque-style tapas (don’t skip the seared foie gras) and, oui , more wine. Afterward, wander around the chic side streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to Paris institutions like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, plus a bevy of art galleries and upscale shops that are better to visit here than on the over-crowded Champs-Élysées; some favorites for window shopping include Le Bon Marché (the Left Bank’s grand dame department store), the fabulously decorated Hermès flagship, and Officine Universelle Buly , which crafts spectacular candles that make for ultra-chic souvenirs. If you’re up for it, pause to people-watch at the always-bustling Bar du Marché before heading back to your hotel to rest up before dinner.

To finish the day, book a table in the bustling 11th arrondissement at Le Bistrot Paul Bert , which serves elevated comfort food — think steak frites, seafood, and epic desserts — that’s earned a devout fan base. 

Today’s the day to pack in your museum visits and sightseeing. Wake up early and grab breakfast at your hotel, or treat yourself to a top-notch coffee and croissant at Café Loustic , which has always made me feel at home. 

Walk over to the Louvre , where you should arrive 30 minutes before opening if you’re hoping to snap a selfie with the Mona Lisa. Frankly, if you only have three days, I’d skip it in favor of visiting some of the city’s other world-class museums — but be sure to at least stroll around the iconic I. M. Pei-designed glass pyramid and the historic courtyard. While you could head straight to the Tuileries Garden from here, I love to detour to the Palais-Royal Garden first, an oasis that’s home to a picture-perfect fountain rimmed by those iconic green Sénat chairs. 

Pass through the palace’s inner courtyard on your way there, where you can scramble around Daniel Buren’s famous black-and-white Colonnes de Buren installation. Just beyond the garden is Galerie Vivienne, a breathtaking 19th-century covered passage with mosaic floors, antique glass ceilings, and a delightful bookshop. When I think about some of the places that first sparked my love of Paris more than a decade ago, these are what come to mind.

Make your way back to the Tuileries Garden and on to your next museum. Impressionist lovers who are short on time should prioritize the Musée de l'Orangerie to bask in the beauty of Monet’s "Water Lilies," or plan to linger a little longer across the river at the expansive Musée d'Orsay , which is housed in a former Beaux-Arts train station.

Sculpture fans should check out the nearby Musée Rodin , or consider the worthwhile trek into Montparnasse to be blown away by the works and former studio of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle at the lesser-known Musée Bourdelle . Whichever museums you choose to visit, be sure to book your ticket in advance to avoid massive lines. 

For lunch, book the three-course tasting menu at Substance , a sleek and modern Michelin-starred restaurant in the 16th arrondissement that boasts one of the finest Champagne lists in all of Paris. It’s right around the corner from Place du Trocadéro, an elevated (but typically tourist-swarmed) plaza that offers sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.

From there, hop on the metro line 6 (or in a taxi, if you prefer) to the Arc de Triomphe. The panoramic view from the top is both fantastic and incredibly crowded; I’d rather enjoy the cityscape later on with a drink in hand at Bonnie , SO/Paris hotel’s trendy terrace restaurant that’s back over in the fourth arrondissement. But first, take your time wandering the iconic Champs-Élysées, making your way toward the storied Place de la Concorde — the famous site of Marie Antoinette’s beheading by guillotine. Chances are, you might need a drink after that; duck into Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, to check out the opulent Bar Les Ambassadeurs . (Pro tip: Be sure to snap a selfie in the marble bathroom.) 

Stick around the area for dinner. Try to nab a table at the ultra-trendy Hotel Costes — reservations are hard to come by, but the red-lit atmosphere is glamorous, and the legendary DJ sets continue late into the night.

For a new perspective on the city, take yourself up the steep steps of Montmartre , Paris’ longtime artist haven. You’ll beat the crowds if you arrive early in the morning, and the best place to start is Place Dalida, where you’ll be rewarded with a bucolic view of Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Climbing the cobbled slope of Rue de l’Abreuvoir is a chance to travel back in time, bearing witness to a nostalgic snapshot of what this neighborhood used to feel like. Whatever the season, this street is utterly charming — bursting with wisteria in summer and framed by red and golden leaves in autumn. Pass by the pink facade of La Maison Rose to snap some classic shots on your way up to Le Clos Montmartre, Paris’ only vineyard. (It’s privately owned, but guided tours are organized a few times per year.)

This part of the city feels like walking through a film set — it’s all steep stone steps framed by vintage street lamps, with a sprinkling of cherry-lit bistros thrown in. To that end, peek around Place du Tertre, a definitively touristy but still-charming square (if you get there ahead of the crowds, that is), which is filled with artists who will ask to paint your portrait. (Note: This area is known for pickpocketing, so keep your belongings secure.) Next, ogle the majesty of Sacré-Coeur, which offers one of the most spectacular views of Paris spread out below. 

If it’s still early enough, head over to the Musée de la Vie Romantique (Museum of Romantic Life) for a coffee and pastry at the Rose Bakery tearoom, tucked into their unsurprisingly romantic courtyard and greenhouse. But don’t spoil your appetite — you won’t want to miss the inventive small plates and next-level wine list at Mokonuts , an intimate lunch spot run by a Japanese-Lebanese couple serving up what has consistently ranked among my favorite meals in Paris. The food is fantastic, the 11th arrondissement space is unfussy, and the reservations are hard to come by (call and hope for a cancellation — it happens more often than you’d think). Order the entire menu (it’s small), including at least two desserts. Trust me. 

If it’s warm out, go lounge along Canal Saint-Martin or the banks of the Seine, where locals picnic, read, smoke, and smooch — take your pick. On colder days, round off your museum visits with a trip to the Centre Pompidou for modern art or Musée Carnavalet (housed in two fabulous mansions) to delve into the history of Paris. 

For dinner, few restaurants charm so instantly as Le Clown Bar — famous for their veal brains and sweetbreads, I choose to go for the delightfully kitschy Belle Époque clown decor. On a recent trip, I skipped the brains and went for the Japanese-inspired beef tartare — few days have passed that I haven’t thought about it. There’s an abundance of natural wine that will appeal to a range of palates, including those who think natural wine is “too funky.”  

If you’re looking for a nightcap (it’s your last night in Paris!), Little Red Door serves up exceptional and inventive cocktails around the corner.  

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Paris in One Day

If you’ve only got one day in Paris — perhaps you’re on a long layover — you’ll need to remind yourself from the beginning: You can’t do it all. I’ve nearly ruined several brief trips by thinking about all the things I should have packed in, rather than feeling present in the few that I was able to manage. 

If it’s your first time, I’d combine the itineraries for days one and two. Base yourself a bit more central to the main attractions — for a night of absolute pampering, treat yourself to a stay at Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, or Le Meurice — two luxury properties just off the Tuileries Garden. Wake up early and indulge in room service or grab a fresh croissant from a boulangerie near your hotel, and savor every second of that interaction — the greasy bag, the warm dough, the flaky mess of it all. Start at the Palais-Royal Garden and Galerie Vivienne before ducking over to see Notre-Dame. 

Unless you’re a serious art history buff, I’d avoid spending your one day inside a museum, but you should still wander around the Louvre courtyard and Tuileries Garden — Le Cafe Marly is a pricey lunch, but offers classic French dishes served with iconic views of the pyramid. 

Grab the metro over to Place du Trocadero for some Eiffel Tower time, wander the Champs-Élysées, then stop back at the hotel to freshen up before taking yourself a bit further afield for dinner — go for Bistrot des Tournelles , another excellent spot for homemade pork terrine, steak frites, chocolate mousse, and other French comforts. 

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Paris in One Week

La chance! (What luck!) You can take your days a bit easier than the itinerary suggested here, lingering a little longer at cafes perhaps and spreading out more museum visits (you really shouldn’t miss Musée Bourdelle in this case). While you could easily spend the whole week in Paris, you might want to plan an overnight to Versailles, where you should book a royally exceptional stay at the opulent Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle , the only hotel on the palace grounds. 

If you’re visiting Paris in winter , you’ll want to make time for the festive holiday markets, while in summer, the Seine beckons with its faux beach. Whatever the season, the best thing you can do with your extra time is allow yourself to wander aimlessly, letting the city reveal its magic to you. 

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!

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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.

Sharing is caring!

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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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.

Table of Contents

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.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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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7 Days in Paris Itinerary: How to Plan the Perfect Paris Trip

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Paris may be the City of Light and Love, but it’s also an enormous, functioning and formidable metropolis. Packed with a multitude of sights, planning a succinct Paris itinerary is a challenging task. No need to worry, with our 7 Days in Paris Itinerary, you will be able to plan a perfect trip!

After visiting Paris numerous times over the last 20 years, we have experience in navigating to the top Paris attractions and off-the-beaten-path gems.

To help other travelers fall in love with the city, we have created an ideal One Week in Paris Itinerary that features the absolute best things to do!

Creating The Perfect 7 Days in Paris Itinerary

Everyone has their own interpretation of the perfect trip to Paris. We know someone who spent their entire three days in Paris inside the Louvre – and we have other friends who have visited Paris for a week and never set foot inside a museum. There is no right or wrong way to see Paris.

Our 7 Day Paris trip planner can be followed step-by-step – or used as a base to design a Paris trip itinerary that fits your travel style.

Don’t feel obligated to visit a specific sight just because someone says that it’s a must-see. There are an endless number of things to do in Paris in 7 days and it’s nearly impossible (and certainly exhausting) to try and see them all.

When creating a Paris One Week Itinerary, it can be tempting to approach the city with a checklist of sights. However, Paris is a city designed to be savored. One thing we highly recommend in Paris is spending time relaxing in cafes and casually strolling along the Seine.

For your 7 Day Paris Itinerary, it’s important to allow room for flexibility and schedule time to simply sit back, relax and enjoy the city.

About Our Paris Itinerary 7 Days

In our 7 Day Itinerary Paris, we share a detailed, day-by-day sightseeing plan. For our Paris itinerary planner, we have outlined all the sights that you can see each day. It’s an ambitious Paris tour itinerary that squeezes in just about as much as possible.

Designed for determined sightseers, travelers who want a less intense and more leisurely agenda should eliminate some sights from our 7 Days Paris Itinerary Planner.

Your style of travel, season of visit and expectations will dictate how you create your absolute best Paris itinerary.

What To See in Paris in 7 Days

Our Paris, France itinerary covers a total of seven days and features all of the major tourist attractions and a few hidden gems. For each sight we provide a brief description and pertinent information. With that, you can decide if you want to include it in your personal trip plan of what to do in Paris in 7 days.

Maps for Paris 

To assist in routing your way through Paris, we have included a map for each day’s sightseeing adventures. Additionally, we have included a pin drop to each sight so that you can easily locate it. Furthermore, at the end of the post, we have a complete map of all the sights to see in Paris.

That said, we strongly suggest you purchase a Paris map in advance of your trip ( like this one ) and spend a little time studying the layout. Paris sightseeing will be a lot more enjoyable if you have a better understanding of where things are located.

Getting Around Paris  

Top Paris sights are located throughout the sprawling city. Visitors can get around by walking, taking a bus, hopping on the Metro or getting an Uber. 

For each sight on our Paris in One Week itinerary, we indicate our preferred method of travel (Walk, Metro, Bus) based on arriving directly from the previous stop. We talk more about getting around in Paris at the end of the article.

Museums and Landmarks

Our Paris in a Week Itinerary includes several museums and other landmarks that require an entrance fee. While we feel it’s possible to enjoy a trip to Paris without paying entry fees, most will want to visit some of these most iconic places.

Top sights will likely have long lines for entry and security, which needs to be taken into account when planning a trip to Paris. Additionally, some are closed on certain days of the week (often Mondays and Tuesdays). Make sure to check opening times and plan your Paris travel itinerary accordingly.

If your plan includes visiting multiple attractions, we recommend buying a Paris Museum Pass . In addition to the savings, the Museum Pass often includes Skip-The-Line access.

For each sight listed in our Paris itineraries, we indicated whether it is free or requires a ticket – and if it is included with the Paris Museum Pass. We provide additional information about Paris sightseeing passes later.

Planning a Paris Travel Itinerary 7 Days 

Those planning a 7 day trip to Paris can use our detailed outline as it is written. However, we know not all travelers planning a Paris vacation intend to stay for an entire week. So, we created additional Paris itineraries that outline what to do in Paris in one day or longer.

Whether you are a first-time visitor trying to see Paris in a day or are returning for a long weekend in Paris, you can use our plan to build your perfect Paris Itinerary!

Tips for Planning Paris, France Itinerary 7 Days

If you choose to follow our itinerary for Paris exactly or use our plan as a blueprint for creating your own adventure, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind.

Paris Architecture, Street Art and Entertainers

In Paris, viewing art isn’t limited to museums. Art is everywhere . Paris architecture is among the most beautiful in the world. Make sure to look up from the map during your 7 days in Paris, France to observe your surroundings!

Also keep your eyes peeled for Paris street art, like wall murals and small tiled works by famous Parisian Street Artist, Invader. The streets of Paris are also filled with street musicians and entertainers. Slow down, listen and enjoy the atmosphere.

Top Tip : Like many popular tourist destinations, Paris also attracts scam artists. Steer-clear of common tricks, like friendship bracelets, petition signature requests and anything resembling a gambling game.

Travel Planner for a Paris Itinerary

Our Paris 7 Days Trip Planner is the perfect place to start researching what to see and do during your trip to France.

However, as you begin to make reservations and buy tickets, organization is key. We recommend using our Travel Planning Printables , to keep your vacation to Paris organized!

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Paris Travel Guide to plan your trip to France!

ONE WEEK IN PARIS ITINERARY

This Paris travel guide is designed to help you effortlessly plan your trip. It works great for a First Time Paris Itinerary, but is incredibly useful for return visitors, as well. Now, without further ado, let’s get started with your Paris vacation!

Day 1 of your 7 Days in Paris Itinerary

Day 1 Route  MAP . Kick off your 1 week trip to Paris with the must-see sights and attractions – like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Arc de Triomphe. Experience the vibrant atmosphere along the River Seine and stroll the renowned Champs Elysees. 

Free | Metro | Map

Created for the International Exposition in 1937, Trocadero Square (Place du Trocadero) is the place for the best views of the Eiffel Tower. Making it the perfect location to start your 7 days trip to Paris.

Lining the square to the northwest is the impressive Palais de Chaillot; sculptures and fountains complete the layout of the picturesque gardens. However, the real reason you’re here is to soak in the Eiffel Tower views that extend beyond to Champs de Mars.

• Eiffel Tower

Free to View; Ticket Required to climb/ride | Walk | Map

The iconic Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) was built for the 1889 World’s Fair by engineer Gustave Eiffel. Naturally, it tops every list of places to see in Paris!

Made of wrought-iron, the Eiffel Tower stands at 1,063 feet, which at the time of completion made it the tallest structure in the world. The tower has three platforms and is one of the most visited monuments on the planet.

Top Tip : If you want to visit the Eiffel Tower (not just look at it), we recommend that you Buy Skip-The-Line Tickets in advance.

Paris Promenade Walk 

Free | Walk | Map

Walking along the Seine River is one of the top things to do in Paris. Soak in the Parisian atmosphere and enjoy a stroll as you travel from the Eiffel Tower to the next stop on our 1 Week in Paris Itinerary.

Pont Alexandre III (and the Grand and Petit Palais)

Hailed by many as the most beautiful bridge in Paris – and a must see for your Paris 7 Days Itinerary – Pont Alexandre III was built at the turn of the 20th century and named for Tsar Alexander III.

Spanning the Seine River to connect Les Invalides to Champs-Elysees, the bridge features numerous statues (including the four glittering winged horses, called Fames) and picturesque street lamps.

On the north end of the bridge (Right Bank), are the Grand Palais (ticket required) and the Petit Palais (free).

Top Tip : Step onto the bridge to soak in the scene, then walk back to the Left Bank with the grand view of Les Invalides in the distance (which you will visit on Day 4 of your 1 Week Trip to Paris).

• Musee d’Orsay

Ticket Required; Included with Museum Pass | Walk | Map

The stylish Gare d’Orsay train station was built in the late 1800s but fell to disuse when longer trains exceeded the platforms. Slotted for demolition, the building was saved by being labeled a Paris Historic Monument and subsequently turned into a museum.

The Orsay Museum opened in 1986 and is now one of the largest art museums in Europe, housing an impressive collection paintings, sculptures and photographs.

Several masterpieces are on display, including Impressionist paintings by some of the world’s most renowned artists (Monet, Degas, Renoir, Cezanne and Van Gogh). Both the collection of artworks and the building architecture make Musee d’Orsay a must see on your Paris 7 day trip. 

Pro Tip : With so many sights to see on Day 1 of your Paris Itinerary, we recommend eating a quick lunch now. The café at Orsay Museum offers sandwiches and small bites or grab a savory crepe from a kiosk.

The Louvre 

Housed in the former Louvre Palace (where French royalty resided from the 14th century until Louis XIV moved to the Palace of Versailles), the Louvre is the most popular art museum in the world. 

The Louvre first opened in 1793 – and now draws more than 10 million visitors annually. The museum is a highlight of many itineraries for Paris. 

The glass Louvre Pyramid in the center of the courtyard was added in 1989 and serves as the main entrance. There are two other less-crowded entry points: Porte des Lions and Carrousel du Louvre.

The Louvre contains 38,000 items that span history from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Collections include Egyptian antiquities, Near Eastern antiquities, Greek, Etruscan and Roman displays, Islamic art, sculptures, decorative arts and paintings, prints and drawings.

The museum’s most famous resident is Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa (which size is often disappointing for many visitors).

Other top attractions in the Louvre include Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Coronation of Napoleon and The Wedding at Cana (opposite Mona Lisa).

Planning Your Time at The Louvre

The Louvre is an absolutely massive museum and you could easily spend the better part of an entire day here.

If visiting the Louvre is on your list of Things To Do in Paris in 7 Days, but you still want to see all the other sights on our list for Day 1, we recommend spending 1.5 hours seeing the highlights.

Top Tip: Alternatively, save visiting the Louvre for Day 5 of your trip and condense that day’s sightseeing to allow for more time inside the iconic Paris museum.

Tuileries Garden

West of the Louvre is the pleasant and neatly planned Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries). Dating to 1564, the gardens were opened to the public in 1667.

Highlights of the Tuileries Garden include the Arc de triomphe du Carrousel (not to be confused with the Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile), a statue-lined promenade, and beautiful fountains surrounded by those famous Paris green SENAT chairs.

Top Tip : Walk up the ramp toward Musee de l’Orangerie (which we visit on Day 5) to the Terrasse de l’Orangerie where there are picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower over Place de la Concorde.

• Place de la Concorde

The next sight on our 7 Day Paris Travel Planner is the largest square in the city, Place de la Concorde. The centerpiece of eight converging streets (including the main thoroughfare through Tuileries Garden), the square marks the east end of Paris’ most famous boulevard, Champs-Elysees.

Within Place de la Concorde are eight enormous statues – each marking an angle of the square – as well as the 75-foot-tall Egyptian Luxor Obelisk and the matching Fountain of the Rivers and Fountain of the Seas.

During the French Revolution in 1789, Place de la Concorde was the site of numerous executions via guillotine. King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette are two of the most notable figures to be executed in the square.

• Champs Elysees

The Avenue des Champs-Elysees is one of the grandest avenues in the world and a top sight to include in your 7 Day Paris Vacation Itinerary.

Running only 1.2 miles – from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe – the tree-lined Champs Elysees is home to an array of luxury brand and fashion retail outlets, as well as opulent palaces and gardens.

The Grand Palais and Petit Palais sit within the Jardins des Champs-Elysees and Elysees Palace (the residence of French presidents), lies just north of the gardens.

In the past, the avenue has been used for military parades – and it marks the final stretch of the Tour de France bicycle race.

Top Tip : Taste-test France’s finest confection, the Macaron, at Paris’ two most famous macaron shops: Laduree and Pierre Herme.  

• Arc de Triomphe

Free to Visit, Ticket Required for Rooftop Climb; Included with Museum Pass | Walk, Metro or Taxi | Map

Another iconic Paris landmark, the Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile marks the west end of the Champs Elysees – and the last sight for Day 1 of our One Week Paris Itinerary!

The arch, which stands at 164 feet, sits in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle and is ringed by a roundabout that connects 12 streets in a star pattern. For a panoramic view of Paris, visitors can climb the stairs to the top of Arc de Triomphe.

Built in the early 1800s to honor the men who died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, the Arc de Triomphe straddles the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

The arch is an integral element in the Axe Historique – a 6.2-mile axis that connects multiple Paris monuments in a line. From east to west, the Axe Historique includes the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, Tuileries Gardens, Luxor Obelisk, Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile and La Grande Arche de la Defense.

Top Tip : For an excellent first meal in Paris, make a reservation at Le Souffle and order the Beef Bourguignon!

Day 2 of your Paris, France Itinerary 7 Days

Day 2 Route MAP . No Paris visitor should miss the extraordinary Versailles Palace sights. Spend the entire second day of your Paris Week Itinerary sightseeing at Versailles. 

Palace of Versailles and Gardens

Ticket Required; Included with Museum Pass | Train | Map

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Versailles Palace – or Chateau de Versailles – was the home of the royal family from 1682 until the French Revolution in 1789. What began as a modest hunting lodge for King Louis XIII in the 1620s, was subsequently expanded into the grandiose Palace of Versailles by King Louis XIV from 1661 to 1715.

Visitors can see the lavishly decorated interior, including the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Opera, the Royal Chapel and the Royal Apartments of the King and Queen.

The Versailles Palace grounds are as extravagant as the palace itself and feature meticulously planned gardens and magnificent fountains. Furthermore, guests are invited to tour the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet.

We recommend picking up the free Versailles audio guide – or save time by downloading the mobile app . 

Tips for Visiting Versailles

Versailles Palace is located 12 miles from the Paris city center and can be easily reached by RER C train. Depending on your point of departure, the route can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. Plus there is a 10-minute walk from the Versailles train station to the palace.

If touring Versailles on your own without a guide, arrive early – before the tour buses – and visit the interior of the palace first. When exploring the Gardens of Versailles, be mindful of the time to ensure you visit all of the sights before traveling back to Paris.

Before entering the palace, all visitors are required to go through security – and may have wait times of up to two hours. Some private tours allow guests to skip to the front of the security line.

The gardens are free to visit except during high season on Musical Fountain and Musical Garden Days – usually Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. If the line to get inside the palace is too long when you arrive, consider visiting the gardens first and then going inside the afternoon.

There are restaurants at the palace and in town where visitors can eat both lunch and dinner. We recommend enjoying a picnic lunch in the gardens and then eating and early dinner at the historic La Flottille overlooking the Versailles Grand Canal before heading back to Paris.

Day 3 of your Paris 7 Day Itinerary 

Day 3 Route MAP . Top attractions today include the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, the pretty Le Marais District, the famed Pere Lachaise Cemetery and the always engaging Montmartre District. 

Pont Neuf – or New Bridge – is ironically the oldest bridge in Paris (more than 400-years-old) and spans the Seine River, crossing the tip of a small island, Ile de la Cite. 

Decorating the bridge are 381 stone face masks of ancient mythology; each one is unique – but none are original. An equestrian statue of Henry IV marks the spot where the bridge crosses Ile de la Cite.

Note : Just downstream from Pont Neuf is Pont des Arts, the once-famous “Paris Love Lock Bridge”. It no longer has locks because the weight threatened the stability of the bridge!

Top Tip : Find the steps behind the statue of Henry IV that lead down to the water. Walk through the park to the very tip of Ile de la Cite for a different vantage point of Paris.

• Ile de la Cite

A natural island in the middle of the Seine River, Ile de la Cite has been inhabited since ancient times. In the Middle Ages, it became the center of Paris – as it remains today. 

All distances in Paris are measured from the Zero Kilometer mark (you can find it in the plaza that sits in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral). We think sightseeing on Ile de la Cite is essential during your 7 Day Trip to Paris Itinerary.

Many of the top Paris sights are located on Ile de la Cite, including Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, Palais de Justice, Conciergerie prison (where Marie Antoinette was held before her execution) and the Memorial des Martyrs de la Deportation.

Sainte Chapelle

Ticket Required; Included with Museum Pass (but cannot skip security line) | Walk | Map

With floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows, Sainte-Chapelle (Holy Chapel) is the most colorful church in Paris.

The chapel was built on the grounds of Palais de la Cite, where the royal Kings of France resided from the 10th to 14th centuries. The purpose of the chapel was to house a holy relic: Christ’s Crown of Thrones (now at Notre Dame).

Sainte-Chapelle was built in just 10 years – from 1238 to 1248 – an astounding feat at the time. Situated on two levels, the upper level features the enormous stained-glass windows (two-thirds of which are 13th-century originals). Each panel depicts a different bible story.

Conciergerie

The Conciergerie was built as an extension to the Palais de la Cite to serve as a dining hall for staff and royal banquets. When Charles V moved to the Louvre Palace in 1358, he put a concierge in charge of the Palais de la Cite functions (thus the name Conciergerie).

In the late 1300s, a portion of the building was converted into a prison. During the French Revolution, the Conciergerie was where counter-revolutionaries and suspected traitors were held. Including the last queen of France, Marie Antoinette.

They were tried before the Revolutionary Tribunal and were either acquitted or sentenced to death. More than 2,700 prisoners were sent to the guillotine in Place de la Concorde.

Notre Dame Towers

Ticket Required; Included with Museum Pass, but time reservation required | Walk | Map

NOTE: The Notre Dame Towers have been closed since the fire in 2019 and are scheduled to reopen in late 2024.

Standing at 226 feet, the double towers of Notre Dame Cathedral reigned as the tallest structure in Paris from when they were built in 13th century until the Eiffel Tower was finished in 1889.

The most beautiful view in all of Paris is from the Notre-Dame Cathedral Towers. We highly recommend including it on your 7 day Travel Itinerary Paris. 

Top Tip: Entrance to the Notre Dame Towers is available at timed increments each day and they often fill up quickly. It’s best to download the JeFile App to reserve your entrance time online beginning at 7:30am each morning. You can also reserve your time at one of the machines near the east gate entrance. Just make it your first stop of the day, before you get in line at Sainte Chapelle. 

• Notre Dame Cathedral

Free to Visit Church | Walk | Map

The Cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris) is the most visited landmark in the city. As one of the top things to do in Paris, it attracts 12 million visitors annually.

It took almost 200 years (from 1163 to 1345) to complete the massive structure. The key features of the French Gothic church are the rib vaulting, flying buttresses, stained-glass rose windows, façade sculptures and menacing gargoyles.

Memorial des Martyrs de la Deportation

The somber, subterranean Memorial des Martyrs de la Deportations monument pays tribute to the more than 200,000 French people who were sent to German concentration camps in World War II. In addition to the poignant memorial, there are a few exhibits and artifacts on display. 

Berthillon Glacier

€3.50 for a small single scoop | Walk | Map

Located on Ile Saint-Louis, the island just upstream from Ile de Cite, Berthillon Glacier is the most raved-about ice cream shop in Paris – and this wouldn’t be the Best Paris Itinerary 7 Days if we didn’t mention it, too!

Opened by the Berthillon family in 1954 as Le Bourgogne Café, Berthillon remains a family-run shop. The ice cream is made on-site using only fresh products to create both standard and unique flavors. Guests can get a cone to-go from the shop or take a seat in the Tea Room next door.

Le Marais 

The historic Le Marais District was once the posh neighborhood of nobles…until the French Revolution. When the noblemen abandoned their mansions, Le Marais became home to Paris’ Jewish community and working-class families.

It wasn’t until the 1950s that many of the rundown residences were restored to their original architectural splendor. Many hotels (as they were called) now house museums and art galleries.

In addition to the Jewish community that is still very prevalent, the once-again stylish district has a large Chinese community and is the center of the Paris LGBT culture.

What To Do and Where To Eat in Le Marais

Explore the streets of Le Marais on your own or follow a walking tour of the district and admire the grand architecture.

Of the many museums in the area, the Maison de Victor Hugo and Musee Carnavalet are both free. Le Marais sights that should not be missed are Place des Vosges, the Church of Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis, Rue des Rosiers and nearby Hotel de Ville.

The Le Marais district is also home to some of the best cheap eats in Paris. We have a few recommendations for restaurants to include on your Itinerary Paris 7 Days. 

We suggest joining the queue at L’as du Fallafel for the best falafel in Paris. Get it to-go, then walk to the hidden Rosiers-Joseph-Migneret Park ( MAP ) to savor the massive falafel sandwich on one of the benches.

Other highly rated eateries in the area are Breizh Cafe (for their signature crepes) or Chez Alain Miam Miam for classic Parisian sandwiches. If you are craving something sweet or an afternoon coffee, stop by Au Petit Versailles du Marais – a quintessential Parisian café. 

Pere Lachaise Cemetery

Free | Walk or Bus 69 | Map

Travelers wondering if it is strange to include a cemetery on their Paris 7 Days Trip Planner need not worry. Pere Lachaise Cemetery is not an average graveyard, it’s a top Paris tourist attraction!

Opened in 1804, the Pere Lachaise Cemetery was, at the time, considered to be too far from the Paris city center. In an effort to attract burials, the remains of two famous French poets (Jean de La Fontaine and Moliere) were re-buried at Pere Lachaise.

With a desire to have a final resting place among renowned citizens, more people chose to be interred at Pere Lachaise…including other famous figures.

The most-visited Paris gravesites are of Oscar Wilde, Gertrude Stein, Frederic Chopin, Edith Piaf and Jim Morrison. While seeking out these famous Paris tombstones is well worth it, we also recommend enjoying the beautiful headstones and lush greenery. 

Sacre Coeur

Free to Visit Church | Metro | Map

The Roman Catholic Basilique du Sacre-Coeur (Sacred Heart) in the Montmartre district is perched at the city’s highest point and ranks as one of the top places to visit in Paris.

The Basilica was built in the late 1800s as a penance for society’s moral decline, but also to honor the nearly 60,000 soldiers who died in the Franco-Prussian War.

The white travertine church, which features unusual Byzantine-style architecture and stately elements, is fronted by a steep staircase that offers sweeping views across Paris.

Top Tip : The dome, which can be visited for a fee, offers an even more impressive viewpoint.

Montmartre and Pigalle

Known for its nightlife and artist haunts, the Montmartre District is a fabulous feast for the senses. In the immediate area surrounding Sacre Coeur, the quaint streets evoke a time of the past.

Classic French cafes line the streets that lead to Place du Tertre, where artists sit at easels drawing the portraits of paying tourists.

Meanwhile, downhill in the Pigalle neighborhood, the bright lights of sex shops and adult nightclubs draw all the attention. The world-famous Moulin Rouge – identified by the giant red windmill – sits among the many cabarets along Boulevard de Clichy.

Tickets to Moulin Rouge shows with champagne and an optional dinner can (and should) be booked in advance .

Other sights in the district include the Montmartre Cemetery, Musee de Montmarte and the Wall of Love.

Day 4 of your Itinerary for Paris 7 Days

Day 4 Route MAP . Today’s route of what to see in Paris includes sights on the left bank of the Seine River. You will explore the Latin Quarter and go underground to the catacombs. Then see artistic sculptures at the Rodin Museum, visit Napoleon’s Tomb and enjoy an al fresco picnic dinner with an Eiffel Tower view!

Latin Quarter 

The Latin Quarter is home to the historic Sorbonne University, ornate churches, spacious parks, classic cafes and chic nightclubs.

The district obtained its moniker in the Middle Ages when university students – who were taught in and spoke in Latin – resided in the neighborhood. The May 1968 protests – which led to 11 million factory workers going on strike – began with student occupations in the Latin Quarter. The successful movement marked a cultural shift in France’s history.

How To Discover the Latin Quarter 

Wander the area on your own, join a walking tour  or use this map for what to see and do in the Latin Quarter.

Start your exploration at one of the top sights in the Latin Quarter, the Shakespeare & Company Bookstore – which is known for stocking English literature in a charming shop. Marvel at the architecture at the Sorbonne University campus, then step inside two of the best churches in Paris: Saint Sulpice Church and Saint Germain-des-Pres Church.

End your time in the Latin Quarter with brunch at Café de Flore, perhaps the most famous café in Paris. 

Built in the second half of the 18th century as a church, in 1791 the domed building was transformed into a mausoleum only one year after completion. The dominating portico (which offers a nice view of the distant Eiffel Tower) is lined with stately columns.

Inside, hanging from the dome, is a Foucault Pendulum – a device created in 1851 proving that the earth rotates.

Many of France’s most revered politicians, intellectuals and national heroes are buried at the Pantheon in the crypt. Some of the notable ‘residents’ include Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo and Marie Curie.

Luxembourg Gardens

The spacious gardens of the Luxembourg Palace (where the French Senate meets today) were designed in the early 1600s. Centering on a fountain that is a popular place for model sailboats, the Luxembourg Gardens feature decorative flower beds, tree-lined paths, tennis courts, statues and monuments.

Paris Catacombs

Ticket Required | Walk or Metro | Map

A labyrinth of underground tunnels displaying skeleton bones, the Catacombs are one of the eerie and unique things to see in Paris. 

Built in the 1700s to stave off the overcrowded cemeteries, the Catacombs of Paris are believed to hold the remains of more than six-million people. Today, visitors can descend into the subterranean maze and explore the dimly lit walkways. 

As this is an incredibly popular Paris attraction, we recommend buying Skip-the-Line tickets in advance.

Top Tip : Another attraction in the area is the Montparnasse Tower. Excellent views extend from the Montparnasse building observation deck on the 56th floor ( ticket required, MAP ). 

Rodin Museum

Featuring the works of French sculptor, Auguste Rodin, the Rodin Museum has a collection of more than 6,600 sculptures.

The building that houses the artwork, Hotel Biron, was used by the artist as his workspace in the early 1900s. When Rodin passed away, he donated his sculptures, drawings and photographs. As well as his personal collection of paintings by Van Gogh, Monet and Renoir.

His most popular sculptures, which are on display in the garden, are The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. Inside, visitors will find The Kiss.

• Les Invalides

Free to enter the grounds and Saint-Louis des Invalides Cathedral, Ticket required for Napoleon’s Tomb and museums; Included with Museum Pass | Walk | Map

Built as a care facility for injured and aging soldiers in the late 1600s, the Les Invalides complex now houses museums, monuments and – most notably – Napoleon’s Tomb.

In addition to the attractions, there is still a military hospital and veteran housing on-site. The monumental structure’s most striking feature is the golden dome, under which Napoleon lies.

Rue Cler is a photographer’s dream and a foodie’s paradise with carefully crafted window displays and gastronomic delights. The picturesque pedestrian-only street features specialty shops, boutiques and a luxurious – and what we often think of as an undeniably Parisian – shopping experience.

To assemble a gourmet meal, visitors hop from the boucheries (butcher shop) to the fromagerie (cheese shop) to the cave a vins (wine shop).

Top Tip : Select items for a picnic and head to Champ de Mars for a meal-with-a-view of the Eiffel Tower!

• Champ de Mars

Originally used as military training grounds, the green lawns of Champ de Mars stretch from the Eiffel Tower south to Ecole Militaire. The rectangular park is lined with benches and provides spectacular views of Paris’ most famous landmark.

View the Sparkling Eiffel Tower at Night

An impressive sight in day light, the Eiffel Tower is absolutely stunning at night. At dusk, the structure is illuminated by 336 orange-hued lamps. From the top, two beams of light stretch 80km, rotating like a beacon.

However, the Eiffel Tower is most beautiful during the hourly (on the hour after sunset) five-minute lightshow when 20,000 sparkling lights make the structure dance and shimmer.

Day 5 of your Paris 7 Day Itinerary

Day 5 Route MAP . On Day 5 of your Paris Week Vacation, discover some of the city’s most opulent architecture and the best shopping venues. Some of these are Paris hidden gems!

Palais Garnier Opera

Ticket Required | Metro | Map

Designed by Charles Garnier and built for the Paris Opera in late 1800s, the structure is an architectural gem (thus the name Palais Garnier). The ornate façade features arches, columns and sculptures (which required the work of 73 sculptors).

Palace Garnier is the setting for The Phantom of the Opera and once stood as the centerpiece of Paris. The new, modern (and less attractive) Opera Bastille, which houses the Paris National Opera, opened in 1989 and the Palais Garnier is now mostly used for ballet.

Galeries Lafayette Rooftop View

A high-end Paris department store, Galeries Lafayette began as a small fashion outlet in 1895. In 1912, the owners commissioned the Art Nouveau building on Boulevard Haussmann, which the store still occupies today. 

Even those not seeking retail therapy should go inside, take in the view under the central dome and then ride the escalators to the rooftop for outstanding Paris city views. It’s one of the fun free things to do in Paris!

La Madeleine Church

The Neo-Classical, 52-column La Madeleine Church resembles a Roman temple. In fact, the UNESCO World Heritage Site was built as a temple and military monument by Napoleon on the site of a former church (the Old Church of the Madeleine).

After the fall of Napoleon, it was transformed back into a church. The interior is lavishly decorated with frescoes, statues and bas-reliefs.  

Musee de l’Orangerie

Since 1927, the Musee de l’Orangerie has displayed Claude Monet’s most recognizable work: Water Lilies (Nympheas). The eight massive murals, which are based on the flower garden at his home in Giverny (which can be visited on a tour ), decorate two oval rooms.

In addition to the murals by Monet, the collection includes works by Cezanne, Matisse, Picasso and Renoir (among others).

Pro Tip: If you skipped entering the Louvre on Day 1 (or want additional time there), visit it after the L’Orangerie Museum.

Palais Royal

Dubbed a ‘Village in the City’, the Palais Royal became a royal residence in 1642. The enclosed space features 18th century gardens and the inner palace courtyard, Cour d’Honneur.

Decorating the courtyard is the Les Deux Plateaux art installation, which is made up of black-and-white stripped columns of differing heights (which make for fun photos!).

The building itself is now used as luxury retail space and the offices of the Ministry of Culture and Constitutional Council.

Covered Passages 

Designed with glass ceilings to filter in the sunlight and lined with boutique shops and chic restaurants, the covered passages in Paris are both functional and charming.

The Paris passageways can be used as shortcuts to avoid long walks around city blocks. However, visitors seeking the ambiance of 19th century Paris will find appeal in simply strolling the length of the covered lanes.

The most opulent passageway is Galerie Vivienne, but we also recommend venturing further north to Passage des Panoramas (the oldest existing Paris passageway, built in 1799) and Passage Jouffroy (a ‘modern’ passageway, built in 1845).

Top Tip : Bistro Vivienne – located at Galerie Vivienne – is a classic French restaurant (with classic Parisian service) that is a good spot for lunch. Try the onion soup!

Centre Pompidou

Free to enter lobby, tickets required for exhibits | Walk | Map

The premier museum in Paris for contemporary art, Centre Pompidou is a massive complex displaying a variety of artistic works. From masterpieces by Picasso to ever-changing rotating exhibits, the space is positively enthralling for art aficionados. Plus, the rooftop view is sublime. 

The building itself is a modern architectural marvel – and it’s free to go inside the lobby (you will need a ticket to visit the exhibits). Centre Pompidou stays open late, so relax and enjoy the artwork and surrounding area until you are ready for dinner.

Rue Montorgueil

The bustling Rue Montorgueil shopping street has a lively, real-life Parisian atmosphere – and is one of our favorite streets in all of Paris. The (mostly) pedestrian-only street features a mix of shops that fit a range of budgets. Among the everyday shops and cafes are specialty stores (like fish, wine, bread and cheese shops).

The street is also home to three historic restaurants: Patissier Stohrer (Paris’ oldest pastry shop credited with creating Baba au Rhum), L’Escargot Montorgueil (specializing in buttered snails) and Au Rocher de Cancale (known for their oysters).

Day 6 of your 1 Week in Paris Itinerary

Day 6 Route MAP . One of the fabulous things about planning a week in Paris Itinerary is that you can discover some of the off-the-beaten-path gems. Today we will explore the east side of the city, beginning in Vincennes. Walk your way back to the center along the Coulee Vert Rene-Dumont – a railroad-turned-park. End your day with a stroll along the Seine and a Paris river cruise!

Chateau de Vincennes

Free to enter grounds, Ticket Required to enter church and tower; Included with Museum Pass | Metro | Map

With origins as a hunting lodge – built in 1150 for Louis VII – Chateau de Vincennes was expanded into a royal fortress in the 14th and 17th centuries.

Surrounded by deep moats and walls, the chateau was used as a royal residence and, later, as a prison. Within the compound is the Royal Chapel and Tower. The grounds are open to visitors, but tickets are required to enter the church and tower.

Although the Chateau de Vincennes is the highlight, the quaint town of Vincennes – which feels a world away from busy Paris – is worth a quick look around as well.

Bois de Vincennes Park

The largest park in Paris, Bois de Vincennes was established in the mid-1800s. Once the royal hunting grounds, then used as military training grounds, it was the site for several events of the 1900 Summer Olympics.

Bois de Vincennes features four lakes, numerous planned gardens, wooded areas, an arboretum, a zoo, a farm and two stadiums. Visitors planning a spring or summer 7 Day Paris Itinerary should not miss Parc Floral de Paris, which features colorful blooms and roaming peacocks. 

Pro Travel Tip: Assemble picnic items in the morning or stop into a shop in the town of Vincennes so that you can enjoy lunch in the park. Alternatively, dine at one of the park cafes – like Le Bosquet. 

Coulee Verte Rene Dumont

Also called the Promenade Plantee, the Coulee Verte Rene-Dumont is a narrow 3-mile-long park that follows the old Vincennes-Paris railway tracks. When the line became obsolete in 1969, developers redesigned the space, including the elevated tracks and tunnels, into a park.

The Coulee Verte Rene-Dumont was the inspiration for other old train track parks in the United States. Including the Highline in New York City , the Rail Park in Philadelphia  and the Bloomingdale Trail in Chicago .

Rue Cremieux

Reminiscent of the brightly painted buildings in French towns like Colmar , Rue Cremieux is unlike any other street in Paris.

The houses that line the narrow lane are painted pastel pink, mint green and sunshine yellow – and each doorstep is decorated with potted plants. Although it is a residential street, shutterbugs flock to the enclave of color for photo ops and a short stroll.

Paris Botanical Garden

Established in 1626, the original garden was transformed into a medicinal herb garden in 1635 – then opened to the public in 1640.

Today, the Botanical Gardens (Jardin des Plantes) is a National Historical Landmark and features greenhouses, a small zoo, libraries and museums. At the west end of the gardens (outside the park) is the Great Mosque of Paris, which dates to the 1920s and is the oldest mosque in Paris.

Riverside Parks and Paris Bridges

The Seine River is spanned by 37 bridges that connect the Left and Right Banks of Paris. Much of the shoreline has greenspace and walkways. An ideal way to experience Paris is to walk along the river, crossing at each bridge to the opposite bank all while soaking up the atmosphere.

Along the route are numerous riverside Bouquinistes – antique book sellers – which sell used books and souvenirs. The riverside is a perfect spot for a Paris picnic or just people watching. There are endless options for places to sit, but the western tip of Ile de la Cite – Square du Vert Galant – is our favorite (where the above photo was taken).

Seine River Boat Trip

Prices vary by company | Walk | Various Locations

A Seine River boat cruise is a fantastic way to see the sights of Paris. In fact, we feel it’s a must when visiting Paris in 7 days! Most Seine cruises have open-air decks, where passengers have unobstructed views of the best Paris highlights, from the Eiffel Tower to Ile Saint-Louis.

Sightseeing cruises on the Seine River depart throughout the day and night. Some Paris boat tours include beverages and/or meals, while others allow you to bring your own food and drinks on board. Many travelers tout the Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Champagne and live music to be a memorable Paris experience. 

Find some of the best Seine boat tours on Viator – and read reviews by other travelers before booking your Paris river cruise.

Top Tip : For a budget Seine River cruise, we recommend Vedettes du Pont Neuf, which offers cruises at prices as low as €19 and allow passengers a BYO option ( get tickets ). We took an early evening Seine Cruise in Paris on New Years’ Eve and brought our own champagne!

Day 7 of your Paris 1-Week Itinerary

Day 7 Route MAP . Complete your one week in Paris with a bit of relaxation. Wind down by visiting a historic market and exploring a few of the 19th Arrondissement sights, which includes some hidden Parisian parks. 

Republique Square, Paris

One of the largest squares in Paris, Republique Square encompasses more than 8 acres and borders the 3rd, 10th and 11th Arrondissements. In the center of the square is Marianne, the national personification of France.

The massive square was revitalized in 2013 to create an open space for pedestrians (as well as demonstrations). After the 2015 terrorist attacks on Paris, and estimated 1.6 million people gathered to mourn at Republique Square.

Marche de Enfants Rouges

The oldest covered market in Paris and a historic monument, Marche de Enfants Rouges has origins that date to the early 1600s.

Inside, vendors sell produce, flowers and freshly baked bread alongside street food-style kiosks that feature fare from around the world.

Parc des Buttes Chaumont

Free | Walk or Metro | Map

Opened in 1867 on the site of a former quarry in northeast Paris, Parc des Buttes Chaumont is uncharacteristically hilly and feels more natural than most of the city’s gardens.

The space features intertwining paths, a suspension bridge, lake and waterfall. However, the most distinctive sight is the Temple de la Sibylle, which sits above the lake on the top of a rocky cliff.

Climb to the top of the temple for views across the city, including an incredible vantage point of Sacre Coeur.

Top Tip : Parc des Buttes Chaumont is a favorite park for locals to enjoy a simple lunch of cheese, bread and wine. Pick something up at the market or eat at elegant Le Pavillon du Lac.

Parc de la Villette

The spacious Parc de la Villette, which was created in the 1980s, marks the northeastern edge of central Paris. In addition to the recreational space, the park hosts numerous museums (including Europe’s largest science museum, Cite des Sciences et de l’Industrie), concert halls and theaters.

Art installations are found throughout Parc de la Villette and the space is used for a variety of events, including an open-air Paris film festival.

Canal de l’Ourcq, which is part of the Parisian canal network, cuts through the center of the park and feeds into the Canal Saint-Martin.

Canal Saint-Martin 

The final area we explore on our Paris Travel Plan 7 Days Itinerary is the pretty Canal Saint Martin district. 

Built in the 1800s, Paris’ canals have served several purposes – from providing water to cleaning the streets to transporting supplies. Less than 3-miles in length, more than half the Canal Saint Martin is now covered. The uncovered portion, however, remains a fascinating place to visit in Paris.

The canal, which is lined by trees and walkways, features nine locks and several elegant iron bridges. In recent years, many nearby buildings and bridge underpasses have been utilized by artists to create evocative street art murals.

Boat operators run Canal St Martin Cruises that travel from Parc de la Villette to the Paris Arsenal Marina near Place de la Bastille.

Eating and Drinking along Canal Saint-Martin

Mid-Range Prices | Walk | Various Locations

Of the many cafes and restaurants that line the canals, we recommend two places to stop for a drink or a meal.

Paname Brewing Company is located in a repurposed granary on the banks of the Bassin de la Villette. In addition to brewing their innovative craft beers on-site, they offer a selection of ‘street food,’ which can be enjoyed in the enclosed glass veranda or on the floating patio.

Lulu la Nantaise Creperie is located on a side street along the canal. The cozy space is small but comfortable – and the crepes are incredible. It’s the perfect place to end your Paris, France in 7 Days Itinerary! 

Read all our recommendations for Paris Craft Beer Bars ! 

Map of Paris Sights

Our Map of Paris attractions is color-coded by day, based on our One-Week Paris Itinerary. Day 1 in Paris = RED; Day 2 = ORANGE; Day 3 = YELLOW; Day 4 = GREEN; Day 5 = BLUE; Day 6 = PURPLE; Day 7 in Paris = PINK. In the Map Legend, sights are listed in the order to be visited.

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Paris Map below.

Paris Day Trips

We have detailed how to plan a Week in Paris Itinerary. However – with the exception of Versailles – it doesn’t go beyond the Paris Ring Road. Those who want to see more of the region can do so on a day trip from Paris.

Some of the best Paris day trips are just a train ride away. Many trips can be organized on your own using public transportation, while others are best done with small tour groups.

Explore more of France with these highly-rated Paris day tours. Also consider adding the Alsace cities of Strasbourg or Colmar to your visit to France!

Chateau de Chantilly

An opulent palace just 30 miles from Paris, Chateau de Chantilly houses the Musee Conde. Easily accessible by the RER D train; visitors can book a 2.5 hour bike tour (or electric bike tour) to learn more about the castle and town. Book it in advance . 

Disneyland Paris

Located 20 miles to the east, the Disneyland Paris entertainment complex includes two theme parks – Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios – as well as a golf course, shops and restaurants.

Paris visitors can travel on their own to Disneyland – or purchase a package that includes private transport to-and-from Disneyland as well as entrance tickets.

Chateaux de Chambord and Loire Valley Wine Tasting

Spend a day visiting three beautiful castles – Blois, Chambord and Cheverny – and sample French wine along the way. The tour includes Skip-the-Line tickets to all three castles and lunch. Find out more!

Paris to Champagne Region Tasting

Many travelers planning a trip to France are eager to get a taste of the famous French beverage. Travel with a small-group tour to the Champagne countryside where you will enjoy a guided Champagne-tasting. Learn about the history and process of winemaking while sipping Champagne and enjoying a provided lunch. Book this tour!

Giverny and Monet’s Gardens

Join a small-group tour to visit the lily garden that inspired many of Claude Monet’s masterpieces. The half-day tour from Paris includes entry into the house Claude Monet lived in (now a museum) and the gardens around it. Get the Details!

Normandy D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery

Spend the day exploring famous World War II sites in Normandy, including Utah and Omaha Beaches and other D-Day sights. The coach tour departs from Paris with an English-speaking guide and includes a cider tasting and lunch. Read reviews!

Chateau Fontainebleau

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chateau de Fontainebleau is one of France’s largest palaces. Home to a long line of royals, the palace can now be toured by visitors. Entry is included with the Museum Pass or non-pass holders can book a guided tour with transport . 

How Many Days in Paris, France?

Determining how many days to spend in Paris is a big decision. Travelers will need to consider their budget, interests and overall time allotted for the trip. 

For a first-time visitor, we recommend spending 3 nights in Paris – at a minimum . Using the first three days of our outline for what to do in 1 week in Paris, travelers can see the highlights without rushing. 

Visitors who really want to experience Paris should consider staying at least 7 days, following our complete Week in Paris Itinerary. Spending 10 days in Paris will allow time for even further exploration on day trips.

More Paris Itineraries

Only you can decide how many days you stay in Paris! Hopefully our alternate itineraries for Paris will give you some ideas and guidance. 

1 Day in Paris

Creating a Paris One-Day Itinerary is an ambitious endeavor, but it is possible to squeeze the top things to do.

Our plan of what to do in Paris for One Day includes the most recognizable sights…but is fast-paced and covers a lot of ground. It is designed in the style of a self-guided Paris walking tour and bypasses many sights, simply due to time constraints.

There might be time to visit museums, but only to see the highlights (as long as there is no waiting for entry). Visitors planning what to do in Paris for 1 day need to be especially mindful of hours of operation and time of day.

Our list of places to visit in Paris in 1 day are based on personal experience, and it is a long day and requires a lot of walking.

Paris Itinerary 1 Day: Sights and Map Route

Use this Google Map for your Paris in a Day Itinerary.

• Pont Alexandre III (and the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, if time)

2 Days in Paris

Visiting Paris in 2 days moves just as quickly as our 1-day itinerary. However, it is a good starting point for anyone looking for a Weekend in Paris Itinerary that covers the highlights.

Our advice for what to do in Paris for 2 days starts by using the condensed itinerary directly above. Then venture to Versailles and explore the Palace and Gardens on day 2.

Back by late afternoon, end your Paris two-day itinerary in the Montmartre District to visit the area’s top sights and experience legendary Paris nightlife.

Paris Itinerary 2 Days: Day 2 Sights and Map Route 

Use this Map of things to do in Paris in 2 Days.

• Versailles Morning Tour
• Sacre Coeur 
• Montmartre District

Paris in 3 Days

Visitors will get a great introduction to the city on a 3-day trip to Paris. Days 1, 2 and 3 from our One Week Paris Trip Itinerary includes the best things to do in Paris in 3 days. 

4 Days Paris Itinerary

Building off of the above, create a perfect Paris 4-Day Itinerary by spending a half day at Versailles. Then add a few sights from Day 5 to your list of what to do in Paris in 4 days. 

For example, after spending the morning at Versailles, visit l’Orangerie Museum, Palais Royal, and the Paris covered passages in the afternoon and have dinner on Rue Montorgueil. 

Paris Itinerary 5 Days

On an ambitious 5-Day Paris Itinerary, visitors can see all of the sights from Day 1 through Day 6 of our Paris One Week Trip Plan. To arrange what to do in Paris in 5 days, follow our outline of our 4-day trip to Paris, directly above. 

Begin Day 5 seeing Paris Opera, Galeries Lafayette and Le Madeline Church. From there, take the Metro to Chateau de Vincennes and the sights we outline for Day 6, ending with a night river boat tour on the Seine River. 

6 Days in Paris

There are a multitude of ways to plan a 6-Day Paris Itinerary. By condensing the sights on Days 1 to 6 of our One Week Paris Itinerary into 5 days, visitors have the opportunity to see all the sights in 6 days. Alternately, simply eliminate Day 7 all together!

How To Plan a Paris Trip

Throughout our guide, we have shared advice on the best way to plan a trip to Paris. Although creating a day-by-day plan is essential, we have a few more travel tips on how to prepare for a trip to Paris.

Paris Museum Pass

There are numerous sightseeing passes in Paris – however, the one we have used (and love) is the Paris Museum Pass. (Not to be confused with the Paris Pass, which is much more expensive).

The Paris Museum Pass can be used to see almost all of the ticketed sights on our Paris Itineraries. (Except the Eiffel Tower, Palais Garnier Opera, Catacombs and Le Centre Pompidou.) It also offers Skip-the-Line entry. The Paris Museum Pass is valid for 2, 4 or 6 days. Passes can be purchased in advance online . 

Paris Trip Cost

Paris is a pricey destination – there is no doubt about that. How much you spend on a Paris trip will depend on your travel style and overall budget. As travelers on a budget ourselves, we’re able to also help in planning a cheap Paris vacation!

How To Plan a Trip to Paris on a Budget

Using our 1week itinerary as a Paris guide, visitors can expect to pay about €120 for sights (if buying the Paris Museum Pass ) and €25 for public transportation.

We offer a few recommendations for places to eat in Paris – there are so many to choose from! However, sitting down at a Paris restaurant is rarely a budget choice.

Opting for take-away bakery sandwiches over sit-down meals will save a lot of money. Paul Bakery (with numerous locations) is our go-to choice for inexpensive meals.

However, the cheapest option for eating in Paris is buying food at the grocery store. Monoprix offers a nice selection of pre-made meals and inexpensive picnic options.

Best Time To Go to Paris

While we don’t think there is a bad time to go to Paris (it’s always a good idea, right?!), there are pros and cons of each season. Not only does the season affect what activities you do, but it will also have an impact on how to pack for a trip to Paris. 

Summer in Paris

Summers are hot and crowded. Lines are long. Prices are higher. Based on that, you might not want to plan Paris trip for summertime. However, summer is also sensational in Paris – with long days for sightseeing and generally comfortable weather for dining alfresco (or in a park).

Plus, summer is the only time of year to enjoy the Paris Plages – the pop-up sandy beaches that line the Seine River!

Paris in Spring and Fall

What we love about visiting Paris in the spring and autumn is that there are generally fewer crowds with fairly pleasant weather. That said, on our shoulder-season Paris visits, we’ve gotten caught in rain and endured warmer days than expected. It’s best to be prepared with a travel umbrella or raincoat …and some sunscreen , just in case. 

Shoulder-season prices can make visiting Paris outside of the summertime a more affordable trip, too. We share more tips on how to travel to Paris on a budget in the next section.

Paris Trip in Winter

We were unsure what to expect of Paris in the wintertime – but it was wonderful! The city was lively and decorated in lights for the holidays, making Paris one of the Top European Destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve ! Bakeries churned out delectable traditional treats and there was an undeniable festiveness in the air.

Although the weather was a bit overcast and grey at times, overall it was mild and enjoyable to be outdoors. Plus, we never encountered lines to enter sights.

Getting To Paris

Paris can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. On our most recent trip, we arrived in Paris by train from Frankfurt and departed from CDG on a flight to Lisbon . 

Paris Airports

There are two major airports in Paris: Charles de Gaulle (GDG) and Orly (ORY). Budget airlines Ryanair and Wizz Air fly into Beauvais-Tille Airport (BVA). We recommend searching for tickets on SkyScanner – but use our Tips for Getting the Best Prices on Airfare first!  

How To Get from the Airport to the City Center

Avoid expensive taxis from Paris airports to the city center by taking the bus. Trains also connect the airports in Paris to the city, but we have found the buses to be more reliable. For the most current information about connections between CDG and Paris and ORY-Paris, consult the official site .

Paris Trains

Gare du Nord is the busiest train station in Europe – and where many travelers to Paris will arrive to or depart from. It has Metro line connections as well as a train to the Charles de Gaulle Airport. That said, there are several train stations in the Paris, and which one you might use will depend on your origin/destination.

How To Get Around Paris

We think the best way to get around Paris in on your own two feet! Part of the Paris charm is found on the streets that are lined with incredible architecture and boutiques. That said, navigating the entire city on foot is unrealistic.

The Paris Metro is an easy way to get around and relatively inexpensive. Single Ride Metro Tickets can be purchased from machines at the entrance to the station. However, buying a Navigo Easy Card or a Paris Visite Pass will save you money over 7 Days in Paris. More information for Paris Public Transit .

Where To Stay in Paris, France

Finding the best place to stay for 7 days in Paris can be a monumental task. Accommodations in Paris range from luxury hotels with Eiffel Tower views to hostel dorms stacked with bunk beds.

During our numerous trips to Paris, we have booked a variety of accommodations. We have even stayed for free in a Paris apartment when we were petsitting .  Find out more about International Housesitting .

Our best tip for Paris accommodations is to find a place that is close to a Metro stop for easy access to the rest of the city.

Hotels in Paris

Travelers will find that there are many, many,  many Paris Hotels to choose from. Visitors splashing out on a luxury trip to Paris should check availability at the Four Seasons Hotel George V. The extravagant hotel ranks as one of the best in the world. 

Those looking for a more affordable option should read our advice on how to Find Top Hotels at the Best Prices . Then start their search on Booking.com .

Paris Airbnb

As long-term travelers, we typically prefer staying in vacation apartments – like those on found on Airbnb . We have found it is less expensive than hotels, with the added benefit of a kitchen and more space. However, the pesky fees can now add up quickly on short stays. Be sure to compare the final price before booking.

How To Pack for a Trip to Paris

Before you go to Paris for 7 Days, you will want to make sure you pack the right things! We offer a few specific tips here, but you can find our complete packing list and top hacks on our Travel Packing page. 

Durable Walking Shoes

Paris is very walkable…but only if you have the right travel shoes ! Our Paris Itinerary covers a lot of ground, so you will need a pair of lightweight and comfortable shoes. I like lightweight trainers and Kris prefers wearing trail shoes by Merrell .

Travel Camera

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip – Paris is incredibly photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for the best quality photos. We travel with a popular budget camera , a DSLR Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens .  

Versatile Day Bag 

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll also want a stylish day bag . Not only to organize all of your everyday essential items – including a city map and guidebook – but to protect against pesky pickpockets !

Paris Trip Insurance

Travel insurance may be useful if you encounter trip delays or lost luggage , and it can come in handy in the event of illness or injury abroad . If you haven’t already obtained insurance for your trip to Paris, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to France ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Your Paris itinerary: plan your three day trip to Paris

I hope you are enjoying my Paris itinerary series, whether you are planning a trip to Paris, or just like reading about Paris.  Following from my one and two day Paris itineraries , I’m now considering what to do on a three day trip to Paris.  Paris in three days definitely gives you far more options for what to do in Paris.  If it is your first trip to Paris I think three days is a good length of time to spend – plenty of time to see all the “must sees” but not so much time as to be overwhelming if it is your first stay.

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Start morning one, day one with a trip to the Louvre.  You can visit the Tuileries garden before or after depending on the weather.  Plan to spend around two hours on a basic Louvre tour, unless you are an art lover, when, of course, you will want to linger longer. You need to book a timed entry ticket for the Louvre. If you have a Pass you can go onto the Louvre website and reserve a time for free.

Book your Louvre timed entry ticket here > >

Regardless of how long you are staying in Paris, do not spend time doing things just because you think you should.  See what you want to see at the Louvre and then leave.

Next it’s time to head along the Seine towards the Pont Neuf and the Ile de la Cité.  First up on the Ile de la Cité is the Conciergerie.  It is rather spartan, but contains a Revolution prison museum, which personally I found quite interesting.

Don’t worry about the Conciergerie being spartan, because our next destination is anything but – the gorgeous Gothic jewel that is Ste Chapelle.  Turn right out of the Conciergerie and find the queue for the next door Ste Chapelle.  Even with a Museum Pass or skip the line ticket you will need to queue for security so don’t panic.  Once through security just show your ticket/pass to gain entry rather than queuing again.

Ste Chapelle is a genuine delight, so don’t rush to your next destination.  Just relax and absorb one of the most dazzling sites in Paris.

If you choose not to buy a Museum Pass, you can buy a combined Ste Chapelle and Conciergerie ticket:

Buy your Ste Chapelle and Conciergerie combo ticket here >>

Once you manage to drag yourself away from Ste Chapelle it is tempting to head directly to the very nearby Notre Dame, but I suggest detouring to the Latin Quarter to enjoy some outside time.

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 >>

Now, I must admit, the Latin Quarter is not my favorite part of Paris, but the architecture can be interesting in parts, and once you get off the main streets, it’s definitely not all bad.

There are some places in the Latin Quarter that I do not believe are worth visiting.  Boulevard St Michel is touristy and can be more than a bit tacky.  While the word Sorbonne may sound romantic, there is little to actually see once you get there.  The Pantheon may look impressive from the outside but that’s about it.

If you like the Middle Ages or tapestries, the Cluny Museum is well worth visiting, being home to the mysterious Lady and the Unicorn tapestry series.  (It’s just off the corner of Boulevard St Germain and Boulevard St Michel). 

My suggestion for a late lunch is the touristy, but pretty, street market on rue Mouffetard.

After lunch, head back towards the river, but stay on the Left Bank side to visit Shakespeare & Co bookshop.

You will note I haven’t specified a route for this walk.  Avoiding the things I’ve outlined above, my suggestion is to grab a good map and find your own special part of the Latin Quarter – just try to come out on the river at or near Shakespeare & Co to pick up the tour.

Next up:  Notre Dame Cathedral.  The Cathedral forecourt will be quite busy at this time of the day so do pay close attention to your belongings.

Before you finish your first day in Paris, it’s time to visit the Eiffel Tower.  From Notre Dame take the Batobus (one of the companies offering boat tours along the Seine) down to the Eiffel Tower.  After all that walking this is a relaxing way to see the city, and is one of my favorite things to do in Paris with kids.

Buy your Batobus tickets now >>

The Eiffel Tower is always busy and security is very tight, so you definitely need a skip the line ticket here (the Museum Pass does not cover the Eiffel Tower).

If you want to enjoy a drink or early dinner before going back to your hotel, the rue St Dominique/rue Cler neighbourhood is right near the Eiffel Tower.  Rick Steves’ Paris guides are excellent for well priced eating options in this part of Paris:

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

If you still have some energy left, a great way to end the evening is a sunset cruise of the river followed by an evening visit to the Eiffel Tower (even if you’ve already been up earlier in the day, it’s worth the trip).  You can read about this Seine River cruise and Eiffel Tower visit here .

How to spend your second day in Paris

This morning we are going walking again – this time along the Champs Elysées.  I recommend you start at the Place de la Concorde where the Champs Elysées starts, although you can do this walk in reverse and start at the Arc de Triomphe instead.

Before you leave the Place de la Concorde, step inside the Hotel Crillon.  After a four year renovation it is recently reopened – looking is free.

Start your walk on the left hand side of the Champs Elysées where the Grand and Petit Palais are.  Their free exhibitions are not worth breaking your journey for, but the Grand Palais often has very good paid exhibitions, so do check out what is currently showing.

Further along the street (past the Renault dealership), Ladurée is at number 75.  Regardless of your budget, do stop and buy a little something.  A macaron can be had for a couple of Euro.

It’s only a short walk from Ladurée to the flagship Louis Vuitton store – another pricy Paris institution which is also free to look in.  Just watch out for scams here.

Then it’s the Arc de Triomphe.  If you want to get up close to the Arc de Triomphe, do not attempt to cross the traffic of the place d’Etoile as you will cause, or be involved in an accident.  Instead, use the pedestrian underpass on the right hand side of the Champs Elysées just near the Charles de Gaulle-Etoile metro entrance.

When you have finished at the Arc de Triomphe stay on the right side of the street and head down back towards the Place de la Concorde.  The historic Guerlain flagship store and Arcades Mall are down towards the Place de la Concorde.

At the Guerlain store cross the road again, and continue back towards the Place de la Concorde until you reach Ave Montaigne (just near the entrance to Franklin D. Roosevelt metro).  Ave Montaigne is one of the most fabulous streets in Paris being home to literally all the big fashion labels.  It’s also home to the luxurious Hotel Plaza Athenée (a good spot for a little sit down and a very expensive cup of coffee).  For car lovers, the luxury care spotting on this street is second to none.  Stop by Christian Dior and Dolce & Gabana for the best window displays.

At the top of Ave Montaigne head across the Seine where if you look to your left, the Musée d’Orsay should be just near by.

You need a skip the line ticket or Museum Pass for the Musée d’Orsay regardless of what time you visit – queues are always long.  The entrance for skip the line ticket holders is at Entrance C (on the right hand side of the building).

You can book your skip the line ticket for the Orsay here >>

The Musée d’Orsay is smaller than the Louvre, but you still need to allow around 2hours to do a visit justice.  If you are short on time, or on interest, the big ticket Renoirs, Degas and Monets are upstairs.  There are also some lovely views back over Paris from upstairs.  For more detailed advice on what to see at the Musée d’Orsay you can read my Musée d’Orsay private tour here.

On a three day Paris visit there’s definitely time for shopping.  To minimise traveling time, and maximise your shopping time I’m suggesting you stay on the Left Bank and either walk or take the short metro ride to Le Bon Marché (metro Sévres Babylone).  There are two building to Le Bon Marché – the main building with the usual department store stock and the next door Grand Epicerie, Le Bon Marché’s fabulous food hall.  Even if you aren’t into shopping, the main building has stunning architecture that is well worth checking out.

What should you buy at Le Bon Marché?  It obviously depends on your taste and budget, but pastries or sandwiches are just a few Euros (there is a sweet little garden at the Metro entrance where you can sit to eat.)  The main building has a lovely stationary department, with gorgeous notebooks and all sorts of other goodies.  They also stock a huge range of beautiful French table and bed linens.  And then of course there’s fashion.  Scarves, ties and hosiery are very French and not necessarily expensive.  The lingerie department is very, very good but I have found the service inconsistent over the years.

This short Paris itinerary doesn’t have time for a tour of the Marais or Montmartre, so in the evening it is worthwhile doing a food tour.

Choose your Paris evening food tour now >>

Day three of your Paris itinerary

Three days in Paris allows you to do the best day trip from Paris – a trip to the Chateau of Versailles and its gardens.   Versailles definitely deserves a full day of your time to enjoy the best of the Chateau and its gardens, so don’t scrimp on your time here.  You can read more about Versailles day trips here.

How to get to Versailles from Paris:   Versailles is an easy 35min train trip from Paris.  To travel to Versailles from Paris you need to take the RER from any of these RER stops:  Gare d’Austerlitz, St Michel, Musée d’Orsay, Invalides, Pont de l’Alma or Champ de Mars.  At the RER station you can catch any train that says Versailles Chateau RG or Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche (there are other stations at Versailles, but the Rive Gauche is the closest to the Chateau.)  To return to Paris you can catch any Paris train.  When you exit the Versailles station turn right out of the station, then take the first boulevard left.  It’s about a ten minute walk.

To make the most of your day trip to Versailles, beat the crowds by leaving Paris by 8.00am, which will get you to the entrance to the Chateau when it opens at 9.00am.  If you’re not a morning person, and arrive later, go to the gardens first, then enter the Chateau after 2pm when the tour groups are more likely to have left.

Planning your visit to Versailles:   assuming you arrive nice and early, hit the Chateau first.  Then visit the gardens (including the Trianon and the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette).  My favorite tip for lunch at Versailles is to either enjoy a well prepared meal in the cafeteria-style eatery near the entrance, or even better, to take a little picnic to enjoy in the garden.

See options for Versailles tickets and tours here >>

France Travel Planning travel tip:

Pick pockets are prevalent within the Chateau, so keep your bag, and valuables close.  The Chateau and gardens are especially busy on Tuesdays (when many Paris attractions are closed) and on Sundays, so unless you have no choice avoid those days.

The best three day Paris with kids itinerary

Follow on my Paris two day itinerary with children with the kid’s favorite things to do in Paris.

You can research family tours suitable for children here (including Disneyland entry tickets) >>

Disneyland is obviously one of the best things to do in Paris with children as well as being one of the best day trips from Paris.

How to get to Disneyland Paris:  take the RER A to Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy.  At the platform before you get on, check on the screen that your train is servicing Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy because this line splits in two towards the end.  Best places to catch this train are from Charles de Gaulle-Etoile, Auber, Chatelet-Les Halles or Gare de Lyon.  The train takes around 45minutes and the station is right at the park.

Avoid the worst of the Disneyland Paris queues by avoiding weekends, Wednesdays and public holidays.  You can use their express pass system to avoid queueing for some of the most popular rides.  Buying your entry tickets in advance will save queuing to enter.

What to do in Paris in three days for the art lover

Art lovers can trim back their Latin Quarter walk to make sure they have plenty of time to enjoy the Cluny Museum on the first day.  On the second day, take the metro to the Quai Branly Museum from the Eiffel Tower for what is possibly the world’s best collection of African, Polynesian and Asian Art.  Then spend the afternoon at the Orsay.

Purchase Quai Branly Museum tickets here >>

Art lovers have a choice on the third day of their visit to Paris – either the Pompidou or Picasso Museums, although I’m sure there will be some who will do both.

Three day Paris itinerary for the garden lover

Garden lovers will spend less time inside the museums and will make more time for the Luxembourg and Tuileries gardens.

On the second and third days there’s a choice.  You could either complete my two day itinerary and save Giverny for day three, or do Giverny on day two, and then head to Versailles on day three.  The gardens of Versailles are definitely not of the detail of Giverny, but their sheer scale, and formal French style make them a winner for gardeners.

Three day Paris itinerary for the food lover

On your first day, start the day with a special breakfast Angelina’s just across from the Louvre.  Stopping at Ladurée or the nearby Fauchon is a given on the Champs Elysées.  Rather than spending time in the main store of Le Bon Marché, enjoy the gorgeous Grand Epicerie food hall.  If you happen to be in this part of Paris on a Tuesday, Friday or Sunday, try to be at the nearby Marché Raspail while it is open between 7.00 and about 2.30pm.  The market is on Boulevarde Raspail between rue du Cherche-Midi and rue de Rennes (metro Rennes).  This market is organic (bio) on Sundays.

On the evening of your second day consider a river dinner cruise.  You can find plenty of options at different price points here >>

On day three, take the day trip to Versailles and enjoy the finest dining at Gordon Ramsay au Trianon ( in the Trianon, book well in advance).  Budget food lovers can curate a gourmet picnic to enjoy when they shop at Le Bon Marchée on day two (there is also a Ladurée at the Chateau).

Plan your trip to Paris here:

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 >>

You can find more Paris guidebooks here >>

If you are considering a package tour or escorted visit to Paris, you can search for options here >>

Book your Paris airport transfer >>

Search Paris hotels here >>

If you prefer an apartment Plum Guide offers high quality options at different price points:

Explore Plum Guide apartments here >>

Read my guides:

Best Paris food tours >>

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Home > Paris Itineraries > 6 Days in Paris: Itinerary & Best Tips by a Local

6 Days in Paris: Itinerary & Best Tips by a Local

Visit paris in 6 days.

What to see in Paris in 6 days? With 6 days in Paris, you’ve got plenty of time to see all the very best attractions at a very relaxing pace, get lost in the lesser-known districts of Paris, and explore other places nearby on a day trip.

If you’re planning to spend 6 days in Paris, this guide will help you. Follow this 6-day Paris itinerary step by step or simply use it as inspiration to create your itinerary. Whatever you decide to do, we are sure it will be a wonderful trip!

‘There’s nowhere that life feels more eternal, your dimwit youth more important, than Paris’ – Charles Finch

6-day Paris Itinerary – Our Proposal for Paris in 6 Days

What to do in Paris in 6 days? Here’s an overview of the perfect Paris itinerary 6 day s.

• Day 1 in Paris – Ile de la Cité and the Marais
• Day 2 in Paris – Louvre Museum and the Historical Axis of Paris
• Day 3 in Paris – Saint Germain des Prés and the Latin Quarter
• Day 4 in Paris – Day trip to Versailles
• Day 5 in Paris – Montmartre, and Canal Saint-Martin /Bassin de la Villette
• Day 6 in Paris – Orsay Museum, Pont Alexandre iii, and the Eiffel Tower.

As you can see from the above, this Paris 6-day itinerary is made up of five days visiting the French capital and a day trip out of Paris (we suggest Versailles). To maximize your 6 day trip to Paris, each day of this itinerary is based on exploring a particular area of Paris or two areas that are close by. This minimizes your walking time between attractions as well as transportation costs.

Another option you may like to consider is to follow our 5 days in Paris itinerary (four days on-site + a day trip to Versailles) and use the extra day for another day trip out of Paris.

This 6 days in Paris itinerary comes with five different maps (one for each day spent in Paris) with our suggested points of interest.

Related Articles

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

6 Days in Paris, Day 1: Ile de La Cité and Le Marais

Notre dame | ile de la cité | hotel de ville | le marais.

Paris is bisected by the River Seine, which divides the city into the Left Bank and the Right Bank. The small island in the center of the river is called Ile de la Cité, and it will be the starting point of this Paris 6-day itinerary.

Ile de la Cité has an important concentration of beautiful medieval buildings. This is because, in medieval times, Ile de la Cité was the heart of Paris. Here, 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 places to visit from Medieval Paris are located on Ile de la Cité.

Click here to view this 6 days in Paris map, day 1 on Google

NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL (FROM OUTSIDE)

Start this 6 days in Paris itinerary at Notre Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris), a jewel of Gothic Architecture built between the 13th and the 15th centuries. Since the terrible fire in April 2019, the cathedral is closed to the public, but you still can admire its beautiful façade and follow its reconstruction works (there are some information panels with pictures).

Before leaving Notre Dame, be sure to find the plaque on the ground, which indicates France’s km 0 point. From here, all French roads (including French roads overseas) are measured from this point.

USEFUL INFO & TIPS

» Notre Dame opening hours: closed to the public until further notice

» notre dame towers opening hours: closed to the public until further notice, » france’s km 0 point cannot be seen at the moment due to notre dame’s reconstruction works..

EXPLORE OTHER SIGHTS ON ILE DE LA CITÉ

Ile de la Cité was home to the Kings of France before moving to the Louvre Palace, and you can also find some vestiges of the Roman times on the isle. While strolling around Ile de la Cité, don’t miss the following sites:

• Sainte Chapelle for the most beautiful stained-glass windows
• Archaeological Crypt with its Roman remains
• Conciergerie , formerly the King of France’s palace
• Pont Neuf , the oldest bridge in Paris

Then head to Square du Vert Galant , a beautiful garden at the tip of the island, for a picnic while watching the boats sailing by. If the weather is not good, there are a couple of small restaurants at Place Dauphine .

» Save money and time! This combo ticket Sainte Chapelle + Conciergerie  gives you skip-the-line access to these unique sites at a discounted price.

» the sainte chapelle opens every day, from 9 am to 5 pm in the winter and from 9 am to 7 pm during the summer. to get the full effect of its windows, try to visit on a sunny day., » the conciergerie opens every day, from 9.30 am to 6 pm ., » the crypte archéologique opens daily from 10 am until 6 pm (closed on mondays)..

HOTEL DE VILLE

Now leave the Ile de la Cité through Pont d’Arcole to visit the Marais. This area of Paris is perfect for simply wandering the streets, admiring the gorgeous buildings you pass, and stopping in at various art galleries or cafés you find along the way.

Before exploring this area, take the time to admire the Hotel de Ville , the city’s town hall, home to the local administration since 1357. However, the former building was burnt down during the Paris Commune in 1871, and the current facade is designed in neo-renaissance style.

This 6-day Paris itinerary continues at Le Marais , one of the most beautiful areas in Paris, which occupies part of Paris 3 and Paris 4. Le Marais is well known for its elegant mansions, gorgeous hotels, art galleries, and quaint little cafés.

During your stroll around Le Marais, make sure you check out Place des Vosges , one of the Royal Squares in Paris , with its stunning architecture and a beautiful central garden. We also recommend visiting the following sites:

• Carnavalet Museum , a beautiful private mansion turned into a museum showcasing the art and history of Paris.
• Centre Pompidou , for contemporary art lovers
• Village Saint-Paul, for its picturesque character in the middle of Paris
• Picasso Museum
• The Pletz, home to one of the most important Jewish communities in Paris
• Cloître des Billettes , the only cloister from Middle Ages that we can still see in Paris
• Archives Nationales and Gardens

For the first dinner of this itinerary, you can stay at Le Marais. Le Marais has a good choice of restaurants and bistros, so just choose the one that tempts you most.

» Check out our Paris 3 Quick Guide to learn more about the area around Temple.

» check out our paris 4 quick guide to learn more about the area close to hôtel de ville., » carnevalet museum is open daily from 10 am until 6 pm (closed mondays)., » picasso museum is open daily from 9.30 am until 6 pm (closed mondays)., 6 days in paris, day 2: louvre museum and the historical axis of paris, louvre museum | tuileries garden | place vendôme | concorde | champs elysées | arc de triomphe.

Day 2 of this Paris itinerary 6 days is all about exploring the sites along the Historical Axis of West Paris , from the Louvre Museum to the Arc de Triomphe. There will be a small detour to visit the elegant (and unmissable!) Place Vendôme.

Click here to view this 6 days in Paris map, day 2 on Google

THE LOUVRE MUSEUM

Start the morning visiting the Louvre Museum , the world’s best museum and a must of any trip to Paris. The Louvre was home to the French Kings until King Louis XIV moved the court to the Palace of Versailles.

For 6 days in Paris, we recommend spending around 2 hours in the Louvre so you can see the museum’s main artworks and the remains of the Louvre Palace . Have a look at our tips for visiting the Louvre Museum in 2 hours or less to get the most out of your visit.

» The Louvre Museum opens from Wednesday to Monday from 9 am to 6 am. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the Louvre opens until 10 pm.

» the louvre museum sees long lines all year round. you can buy your louvre skip-the-line ticket now or have a look at our louvre skip-the-line tips ., »  how to visit the louvre museum in 2 hours or less ..

THE TUILERIES GARDEN

From the Louvre, take a short walk to the Tuileries Garden , one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris. Here, you will find a couple of guinguettes selling drinks and quick eats for a lunch break.

The garden’s name comes from the tile factory ( tuiles in French), which once stood where the gardens are now. Built in 1564 as the garden of the Tuileries Palace, this is the oldest public garden in Paris.

Stroll through the garden or – even better – join this Tuileries Garden Quest (self-guided) to learn more about this beautiful garden while having fun.

PLACE VENDÔME

From the Tuileries Garden, leave through rue de Rivoli in the north and walk around 300m along rue Castiglione. Here you will find Place Vendôme , considered to be one of the most elegant squares in Paris.

The Vendôme Column, right in the center of the square, was erected by Napoleon I to commemorate the Battle of Austerlitz. Around the column, the Hotel Ritz and luxury jewelry shops complete the decor.

PLACE DE LA CONCORDE AND CHAMPS ELYSÉES

Back to the Tuileries Garden, take the time to walk around Place de la Concorde . The current square was arranged in the 18th century to host an equestrian statue of King Louis XV to celebrate his recovery from a terrible illness. Years later, it was the witness of some of the most terrible chapters of the French Revolution , like the execution of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie-Antoinette.

Don’t miss the Luxor obelisk – the oldest monument in Paris – brought directly from Egypt! Today the obelisk is part of the biggest sundial in the city, and you will find the marks on the pavement.

Now, walk along the Champs Elysées , the most famous avenue in Paris, and enjoy its atmosphere and window shops up to the Arc de Triomphe.

ARC DE TRIOMPHE

Commissioned in 1806 by  Napoleon I  to honor the Grande Armée, this triumphal arch 55m high is inspired by the arches of Roman times. It also houses the tomb of the unknown soldier whose flame is rekindled every evening.

Climb up to the top of Arc de Triomphe for a unique panorama of the Champs Élysées and beyond.

6 Days in Paris, Day 3: Saint-Germain-des-Pré s & the Latin Quarter

Saint-germain-des-prés | luxembourg gardens | the latin quarter.

Day 3 of this Paris 6-day itinerary will see you exploring the Seine’s Left Bank, more specifically the neighborhoods of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter .

Click here to view this 6 days in Paris map, day 3 on Google

SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRES

Start with a coffee (+ people-watching) in one of the neighborhood’s beautiful cafes. Some of the most beautiful cafés in Paris are located in this area so you will be spoilt for choice!

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris, very popular amongst tourists. It started out as a rural village in the 12th century that grew around the former Saint-Germain Abbey.  

After the second world war, this neighborhood became a common meeting place for intellectuals, and artists, who liked to discuss and debate in the beautiful cafes and bistros of the area. 

These days Saint-Germain-des-Prés has been profoundly transformed due to the tourism industry, and boutique hotels, art galleries, and luxury shops have replaced the small printers, bookstores, and some cafes.

After the coffee, stroll around the neighborhood. We recommend visiting the following sites:

• Saint-Germain-de-Près Abbey
• Church of Saint-Sulpice
• Rimbaud’s poem “Bateau Ivre” painted on a wall near Saint-Sulpice

Once you’ve finished exploring Saint-Germain, take the short walk to the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens.

THE LUXEMBOURG GARDENS

The Luxembourg Gardens was commissioned by Queen Marie de Médicis (the widow of King Henri IV) in 1612 and it was inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, the Queen’s hometown. The gardens surround the Luxembourg Palace, and they are great to explore, especially on sunny days.

The list of interesting things to see at Luxembourg Gardens includes the pond in front of the Palace, the Médicis Fountain (considered one of the most romantic places in all of Paris), the Orangerie, the collection of sculptures of French Queens around the pond, a rose garden, and the greenhouses with an orchid collection. There’s also a playground for kids with a carousel.

Feeling hungry? Look for a beautiful spot for a sandwich on a bench or head to the Latin Quarter, with plenty of restaurants and bistros.

THE LATIN QUARTER

The Latin Quarter is another popular area in Paris. While it is known as the center of university life in Paris, it’s also where the Roman City was born in IC AD.  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 the former Cardo Maximus and one of the two main streets in Paris in Roman times .

The rest of the day is dedicated to exploring this area, with an interesting combination of historical sights, lively squares and streets, plenty of cafés, small bookstores, and independent cinemas proposing auteur films. While strolling around the Latin Quarter, don’t miss the following sites:

• The Panthéon , with the tombs of the most notable citizens of France
• The Sorbonne University
• Cluny Museum, dedicated to Middle Ages
• Rue Mouffetard
• Place de la Contrescarpe
• Grande Mosquée de Paris
• Arènes de Lutèce , the Roman amphitheater (IAD)
• Jardin des Plantes , the main botanical garden in France
• Grande Galerie de l’Évolution , inside the Jardin des Plantes

NIGHT AT LE PARADIS LATIN

For the third night of this Paris in 6 days itinerary, we recommend the cabaret show with dinner at Le Paradis Latin . This is one of the best cabarets in Paris , and also the locals’ favorite. You can buy your tickets here .

Alternatively, there are many small restaurants around Place de la Contrescarpe and rue Mouffetard.

» Check out our Paris 6 Quick Guide to learn more about Saint-Germain-des-Près.

» check out our paris 5 quick guide to learn more about the latin quarter., 6 days in paris, day 4: day trip to versailles.

After three days of exploring Paris, it’s time to leave the city for a beautiful day in Versailles . Located west of Paris. Versailles is world-known for the Château de Versailles, a jewel of French architecture and home to King Louis XIV, King Louis XV, King Louis XVI, and Queen Marie-Antoinette until the French Revolution.

There’s a lot to see and do in Versailles so take the time to plan this day trip. To help with the organization, check out our Versailles Quick Guide , which includes things like when to go, how to travel, what to see, and our best tips.

VERSAILLES PALACE AND GARDENS

The State of Versailles is spread out across more than 800 hectares, and it includes the Palace of Versailles and the Trianons.

After visiting the Château de Versailles – click here for our best Versailles skip-the-line tips – stroll around the magnificent French-style Versailles Gardens , with 200,000 trees, 50 fountains, and the Grand Canal , making it well worth a visit during your 6-day Paris itinerary.

6 Days in Paris, Day 5: Montmartre, Canal Saint-Martin and La Villette

One of the most pleasant things to do in Paris when the sun shines is a stroll around Montmartre or down the Parisian canals. Day 5 of this 6 days in Paris itinerary will cover both areas, so forget museums and monuments for a day and put on your walking shoes!

Click here to view this 6 days in Paris map, day 5 on Google

Day 5 starts exploring the neighborhood of Montmartre . Take the metro to the Anvers station (line 2) and then take rue Steinkerque up to the Sacré Coeur.

For your stroll around Montmartre, we suggest following this Montmartre Walking Tour (self-guided). It starts from the Sacré-Coeur Basilica and explores the main sights of Montmartre while learning the history of this picturesque neighborhood.

If you want to go beyond the main sights, and you have the time, check out our Secret Map of Montmartre with our favorite spots off the beaten path.

For lunch, there are many boulangeries proposing sandwiches or quick eats to eat something on the go. If you prefer to take your time, check out the list of favorite restaurants in Montmartre .

BASSIN DE LA VILLETTE – CANAL SAINT-MARTIN

From Pigalle or Anvers metro stations, take metro line 2 to Stalingrad for a stroll through the Bassin de la Villette or Canal Saint-Martin.

Where to go? Canal Saint-Martin  is a cultural hub and one of the most popular places in Paris while  Bassin de La Villette – Canal de l’Ourcq  has a more local feeling, with more things to do along the canal.

A fun thing to do at Bassin de la Villette is sailing an electric boat along the canal  (no boating license required), perhaps with a bottle of rosé wine onboard.

For dinner, both areas have some bar restaurants for a casual dinner in the neighborhood.

6 Days in Paris, Day 6: Paris 8 and Paris 7

Orsay museum | alexander iii bridge | grand palais & petit palais | eiffel tower | seine river cruise.

On the last day of this Paris itinerary 6 days, you’ll take a closer look at some of the famous landmarks in the city, as well as spending some time admiring the brilliant architecture of the city’s buildings.

Click here to view this 6 days in Paris map, day 6 on Google

ORSAY MUSEUM

Start early in the morning with a visit to the Orsay Museum . This beautiful and interesting museum is set in the former Gare d’Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station that was built between 1898 and 1900.

The Orsay Museum holds mainly French art from 1848 to 1914 and includes artworks of Van Gogh, Gauguin, and the Impressionists. Even if you’re not into art galleries, a visit here is well worth it, just to see the train station, which looks like a palace!

ALEXANDER III BRIDGE

After visiting Orsay, follow the Seine River to the west, to the Alexander iii Bridge . Built between 1896 and 1900, the Alexander iii Bridge is said to be the most romantic bridge in all of Paris, and it features Art Nouveau lamps, cherubs, nymphs, and winged horses at either end.

As you walk across it, you’ll have brilliant views of the Eiffel Tower and the Grand Palais and Petit Palais on the other side.

Even if day 6 is dedicated to the 7th district of Paris, both buildings deserve a slight detour to the Seine’s Right bank.

GRAND PALAIS AND PETIT PALAIS

From the Alexandre iii Bridge, continue onto Grand Palais and Petit Palais to admire these two impressive buildings constructed for the World’s Fair of 1900.

The Grand Palais (on the left) is a large site that houses an exhibition hall and museum, recognizable by its large glass dome. Just in front of the Grand Palais is the Petit Palais , housing the City of Paris Museum of Fine Art.

If you did not have lunch yet, the Petit Palais is free to enter, and it has a beautiful garden with a café perfect for enjoying a set menu or tea + cakes surrounded by stunning decor.

THE EIFFEL TOWER

We have kept the Eiffel Tower for the last moment of this 6 days in Paris itinerary. Climb up to the Eiffel Tower to learn more about France’s most iconic monument and for an awesome view of Paris from above.

The Eiffel Tower lits up at night, and it is truly magical. Did you know that while the Eiffel Tower is lit up, it sparkles for the first five minutes of every hour?

Remember to book your Eiffel Tower tickets well in advance ! With only six days in Paris, it’s essential to secure the date and time slot as soon as possible. If you book with Get Your Guide , you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

SEINE RIVER DINNER CRUISE

After your Eiffel Tower experience, what better way to finish off your trip to Paris than taking a dinner cruise down the River Seine . During this 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 – Click here to compare the best Seine River Cruises in Paris .

How to Get from / to the Airports of Paris

Our personal recommendation is to pre-book with Welcome Pickups , a reliable and top-rated private transfer 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 Sleep in Paris for 6 Days

Haven’t decided where to stay during your six days in Paris yet? Check out our hotel suggestions perfect for your 6-day Paris itinerary.

I 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 have awesome views of the Eiffel Tower, which is especially beautiful during its night show! – Check out the best hotels with Eiffel Tower Views

HOTELS AT LE MARAIS

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 SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRÉS

The neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés , on the Left Bank, is a great place to put your luggage down in Paris, especially if you are visiting Paris for the first time. It is picturesque and central, with many entertainment, beautiful cafes, and restaurant options – Click here for the best hotels in Saint-Germain

• Relais Christine (4-star hotel in a 16th-century private mansion)
• Hotel Chaplain Paris Rive Gauche (mid-range hotel a few meters from Luxembourg Gardens)

And there you have it, a comprehensive Paris 6-day itinerary for your next trip to Paris. Follow this itinerary step by step, or change it up to suit your own individual preferences.

Have a look at our other Paris Itineraries:

• 1 day in Paris Itinerary
• 2 days in Paris Itinerary
• 3 days in Paris Itinerary
• 4 days in Paris Itinerary
• 5 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 One Week: The Perfect 7 Day Itinerary for 2023

Planning to spend 7 days in Paris France, and looking to see as much as possible? There are so many things to see in Paris in a week. This 7-day itinerary will help you make the most out of your stay in the city.

The enchantingly picturesque city can be explored in one day or an entire month, and every visit is bound to unveil more of its secrets. In this 7-day itinerary to Paris, I will show you how you can utilize your time to be able to see the most important attractions while also being able to get a taste of local Parisienne life.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

7 Days in Paris Quick Guide

Planning a trip to Paris? Find here everything you need: Looking for transportation from/to the airport?  Click here for more information and to book your private transfer. Top-Rated Tours and Day Trips to Do in Paris: – Closing Time At The Louvre: The Mona Lisa At Her Most Peaceful –  VIP Paris Catacombs Tour with Small Group, Skip the Line Tickets, and Special Access –  Closing Time at Versailles: Small Group Versailles Tour After the Crowds with Gardens or Fountains Show –  Paris: Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access –  1-Hour River Seine Cruise Where to stay in Paris:  Hotel Gustave (near the Eiffel Tower), Hotel Saint Paul Rive Gauche (great location near Luxembourg Gardens), Shangri-La Paris (luxury + great location)

How to get From Airport to City Center

Before you figure out how you’re going to get from the airport to the city center, consider first which airport you’re going to be landing in. The main airport in Paris is Charles de Gaulle International Airport. Even though the airport itself is huge and might first seem as intimidating, it has a lot of transportation options to get you to the city center.

Note: If you have a lot of luggage during your week-long Paris itinerary, I recommend either taking a shuttle bus, a taxi, or an Uber straight to the hotel. It will be a major hassle for you to take the luggage to the metro station as the metro only has stairs and rarely escalators.

Charles de Gaulle:

By Train : Every 10 minutes, you can take the train, and it’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get to the city center. The ride will take you about 30 minutes but might take longer if the train stops at multiple stations within Paris. Bus : There’s a bus that runs directly from Charles de Gaulle to the Paris Opera, and it takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. It is the cheapest option to use if you have a lot of luggage on you. Taxi : Taxis are expensive, and the ride can range from 50 to 70 EUR, and it will take you from 40 to 60 minutes from the airport. Private Transfer with Welcome Pick Ups The easiest and most comfortable way to get to the city center is by a private transfer service like Welcome Pick Ups . It costs exactly the same as a regular taxi, only now you will have already prepaid for it, your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it, a bottle of water and a city map. You will not have to worry at all about the language as all drivers speak English. Find here more information and book your private transfer.

The second most important airport in Paris also has a wide array of transportation options. Train : Even though you can take the train, there are no direct train lines from Orly to the city center. Therefore, you will need to take the train to Anthony Train Station and then switch to the city center. The journey will take an hour. Bus : The bus will take you 45 minutes. Luckily, this option is one of the best and will be able to fit all your luggage if you have a lot. Taxi : A taxi will take about 30 minutes. Private Transfer with Welcome Pick Ups The easiest and most comfortable way to get to the city center is by a private transfer service like Welcome Pick Ups . It costs exactly the same as a regular taxi, only now you will have already prepaid for it, your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it, a bottle of water, and a city map. You will not have to worry at all about the language as all drivers speak English. . Consider this option for hassle-free transportation in your Paris itinerary. Find here more information and book your private transfer.

Where to Stay in Paris

If you’re staying 7 days in Paris, it’s important to choose hotels that are comfortable, convenient and budget-friendly. Here are a few hotels you can consider:

Hotel Gustave

Hotel Gustave is conveniently located. A 15-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, the hotel is a comfortable boutique hotel that guaranteed a relaxing stay. Hotel Gustave is also set in a very typically Parisian building, the rooms are inspired by the Belle Époque, and there’s a continental breakfast served every day. The River Seine is a few minutes away on foot, the Petit Palais and the Place de la Concorde are also a metro ride away.

Find here more information and book Hotel Gustave.

Hotel Saint Paul Rive Gauche

This 17th-century residence was once the home to monks and is now an authentically beautiful hotel. There are shared living areas, a great buffet breakfast every day and free Wi-Fi everywhere. There’s a metro station only 5 minutes away from the hotel, and you’ll be able to visit most of the monuments quite easily.

Find here more information and book Hotel Saint Paul Rive Gauche.

One of the six hotels in Paris awarded the “Palace” status. The whole hotel is styled with 18th-century furnishings and architecture, and there is a lot of emphasis on old-style doors, antique 1940s lift, and traditional personal service.

Find here more information and book Hotel Le Bristol.

Shangri-La Paris

This hotel was originally the private mansion of Ronald Bonaparte, who was the nephew of Napoleon. You should expect incredible services, Michelin-starred Shang Palace with some of the best cuisine in town. Some of the rooms have incredible views of the Eiffel Tower.

Find here more information and book Shangri – La Hotel.

How to spend 7 days in Paris, a comprehensive itinerary

• Day 1: Montparnasse Tower
• Day 2: Saint Chapelle, Notre Dame, Pont Neuf, Les Marais
• Day 3: Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, Place de la Concorde, Champs-Elysees, Arc de Triomphe
• Day 4: Palais Royal, Place Vendome. Opera Garnier, Paris Story, Galerie Lafayette, Printemps Department Store
• Day 5: Montmartre, Sacre Coeur, Eiffel Tower, Seine Boat Cruise
• Day 6: Day trip to Versailles, Crazy Horse Show
• Day 7: St. Germain Neighborhood, Jardin de Luxembourg, Pantheon

Paris Itinerary: Day 1

Your first day should be one of relaxation and lazy exploration to prepare you for the hectic sightseeing of the upcoming few days. Seven days in Paris is a lot, and it’s advisable to spend your first day idly getting used to the city. Set your bags at the hotel, maybe even cherish those fluffy beds and embark on a discovery of Paris.

Montparnasse Tower

On our first day, we decided to embrace the creative roots of Paris and head to Montparnasse. This neighborhood is where creativity is left to run wild, where streets buzz with local life, and where you’ll find quintessential reflections of arts and literature scenes embedded in the streets. Quaint shops, cozy cafes, and brasseries are not the only beautiful things about Montparnasse. There are quite a few attractions, from the Catacombs museums to the Parc Montsouris.

The main attraction that we thoroughly enjoyed, however, was the Montparnasse Tower. A true symbol of Paris second to the Eiffel Tower, this tower pierces the sky and is the tallest skyscraper in all of France. Climb up the tower on a clear day, and you’ll be met with spanning views, vistas, and the gorgeous skyline of Paris. It’s a good way to start your trip as this way you’ll be orienting yourself to all there is to see ahead.

Click here for more information and to book your terrace tickets.

Paris Itinerary: Day 2

In this seven-day itinerary, you’ll be spending your second day exploring different historical attractions in Paris.

Saint Chapelle

Saint Chapelle is nothing short of an architectural wonder with the aesthetic marvel that hides behind the Palace of Justice. Climbing the spiral staircase to be surrounded by glorious stained-glass walls, the vaulted ceilings, and the relics is itself a magnificent experience. You’ll get to see jewel-encrusted goblets, rich colors and beauty that seems to be alive. With the light streaming through the windows, the elaborate decorations and the spiritual vibe – Saint Chapelle is the perfect place start to your trip.

Tip: The queues are long for Saint Chapelle so get there as early as possible or buy a skip the line ticket.

Free entrance with the Paris City Pass / Museum Pass

More info: Sainte Chapelle

Notre Dame 

After the recent tragic events Notre Dame is no longer open for a visit.

Embark on a journey to one of the world’s most renowned gothic cathedrals of all time. The Notre Dame embodies the soul of Paris in its walls and its 13th-century architecture. The true meaning of medieval is symbolized in this iconic gothic sanctuary and you will be able to see and experience the beauty at full force. Make sure to visit really early, as the doors open at 9 am and the lines by then are already daunting. With its gargoyles and chimerical sculptures, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to gothic times in the 13th century, so it will be worth the visit.

Head over to The Towers , where you can climb 387 stairs up to be rewarded with sweeping views of Paris. From there, you’ll be surrounded by bell towers and gargoyles with a view of the Louvre, the Sorbonne, the Panthéon, and the Ile Saint-Louis.

Despite its name, Pont Neuf – which directly translates to New Bridge –  is actually the oldest bridge in all of Paris. Elegant arches reflect beautifully on the rushing River Seine, gargoyles and grotesque creatures decorate the edifice, and the skyline of Paris gloriously finishes the image…Walking the bridge is simply enchanting. Also, try going there by sunset when the sun paints the bridge and the surroundings in hues of orange and red.

The closest you can get to what Paris was like in medieval times is by exploring Le Marais. This highly progressive community has come a long way since its industrial times and today it serves as the melting pot for the Jewish community, the Chinese, the LGBT, and all things progressive. You’ll also find that it’s not a major tourist hub so you can experience that little bit of Parisienneamore in the streets. Vintage boutiques, cozy sidewalk cafes, and great bars – Le Marais is worth roaming around in.

Pay a visit to Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, and one of the most beautiful, and immerse yourself in the different facades, the lively atmosphere, and the different museums. You can visit Victor Hugo’s house, author of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, or learn about Picasso at Musee de Picasso.

7 days in Paris Itinerary: Day 3

Of course, with seven days in Paris, you’ll have time to visit its most iconic symbols comfortably. On the third day, you’re going to be going on the ultimate tour of Paris. All the highlights you’ve been dreaming about and the symbolic attractions can be visited in a day, albeit a hectic one.

We started off with Le Louvre, a museum that puts all others to shame. Unparalleled when it comes to its collection, its sense of grandeur and its diversity – Le Louvre is one of the most renowned museums in the world. It’s more of a monument, than a museum with a staggering 35,000 pieces of artwork that span some of the world’s most important civilizations. From European artists, to Egyptian mummies – you can find everything at Le Louvre. Gawk at the Mona Lisa, take pictures in front of the giant glass pyramid, relish the Egyptian antiques or learn about Islamic in the Islamic arts section.

Tip: The lines at the Louvre are big, book a timed entrance ticket or a guided tour or my favorite closing time at the Louvre tour by Take Walks in advance to skip the lines.

Tip: The museum is huge so plan ahead what you want to see. Also, take advantage of the late opening on Wednesday and Friday.

More info: The Louvre

Recommended skip-the-line tours and tickets for the Louvre. Click here to book a skip-the-line timed ticket . Louvre Museum Skip the line ticket and Guided Tour – you will get to see the highlights in just 2 hours. My absolute favorite is the Closing Time at the Louvre tour by Take Walks where you get to see the masterpieces of the Louvre without the crowds in an intimate group of 6 people.

Musee d’Orsay

With a fascinating history, Musee d’Orsay has transformed multiple times throughout the course of history. From being a railway station to a mail center – this museum has finally settled for its final form. A rich collection of both impressionist and post-impressionist paintings are showcased in the museum in all forms. You’ll find all sorts of sculptures, furniture displays, paintings, and a lot more!

Tip: Another busy museum in Paris you can buy a   Reserved Access 1-Day Admission Ticket and head straight at the entrance for visitors with pre-bought tickets. Alternatively, I highly recommend the Meet the Impressionists: Musée d’Orsay Skip-the-Line Fully Guided Tour by the company Take Walks

More info: Musse d’ Orsay

Place de La Concorde

Unwind after those two museums at one of the fountains in Place de La Concorde, or sip on some coffee at a sidewalk café. The main attraction there will be a 23-meter Egyptian obelisk magically adorned with hieroglyphs that date back to 3000 years ago. Sit by fountains devoted to the seas and rivers, walk around the same place Marie Antoinette was executed, and take postcard-worthy pictures at this plaza!

Champs-Élysées

The acclaimed streets of the Champs-Elysees are known for their glamour, posh boutiques, and high-end shopping, but visiting them before Christmas was an entirely different experience. The streets were drenched in gorgeous flickering lights that adorned the buildings, the spirit of festivity oozed out of every alley, and dazzling displays created an unparalleled happy vibe. You could actually feel Christmas with every step you took.

Arc de Triomphe

Elegance and prestige emanate from one of Paris’s most symbolic icons – the Arc de Triomphe. This colossal architectural edifice acts as a central masterpiece of the Champs Elysees and has a significant place in the history of Paris. You can visit the first floor for free, but word of warning: the queues are tremendous. We always resorted to booking the skip-the-line ticket to avoid wasting our time.

Tip: To avoid the queues you can buy a Skip-the-Line Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets.

More info: Arc de Triomphe

7 days in Paris Itinerary: Day 4

Palais Royal

Start your day at the quietest, most quintessentially French Parisian garden and enjoy the surrounding atmosphere. Sunshine creeps its way through the trees, the sounds of rushing fountains in the background, and the arcades that line the garden.

You can spend your time relaxing or strolling through galleries that border the garden – whatever it is, make sure to enjoy your morning coffee at this tranquil place. To the north of the gardens, there is the Galerie Vivienne, a passage with an array of cafes, little sidewalk bars, and beautiful mosaic floors. Try to have breakfast either there or at Galerie Colbert with its statues and architectural designs.

Place Vendome

If you’re even slightly interested in jewelry, head over to the Place Vendome. This is without a doubt, the most luxurious of all the squares in Paris. Envision classical architecture, mansions, jewelry shops, luxury everywhere, and crystal boutiques – this is where you go to get a taste of all things glitzy and glamorous!

Opera Garnier

Not only is the Opera Garnier an architectural treasure – but it’s also a central spot for classical music and ballet. Home of the Phantom of the Opera, the inspiration for countless of paintings, and one of the most visually stunning spots – the Opera Garnier is magnificent!

A ceremonial staircase takes you between lavish gold and marble, and literature and art all find their snake their way through the edifices of the Opera. Try to enjoy a performance amidst this spectacle of high society! The guided tour of the Opera was one of the highlights of my visit to Paris.

Free guided tour with the Paris City Pass . (You need to go to the opera a few hours before the tour starts and book your tour – a valid ID is required)

More info: Opera Garnier

Book a self-guided tour of the Opera Garnier.

Paris Story

Next to the Opera Garnier is a theater of 140 seats that showcases a movie about the entire history of Paris. You’ll be able to learn about the secrets of Paris, be whirled through the scenes of the most famous landmarks and how they came to be, take a voyage of time to the foundations of this contemporary city, and much more. You’ll be fully immersed in an unexplainable French ambiance, and you’ll come out much more knowledgeable than you were before.

Free entrance with the Paris City Pass .

More info: Paris Story

Galerie Lafayette

The Belle Époque architecture isn’t the main attraction here; it’s the insanely extravagant shopping you’re about to be met with. Designer clothes, men’s fashion, home furnishings, fashion shows, jewelry, and much more are all displayed in one of the world’s most important fashion institutions. It’s a must-stop for all fashion enthusiasts, and if your budget is a little tight, a little window shopping can’t hurt!

Printemps Department Store

After visiting Galeria Lafayette, we headed to the Printemps department. What caught my eye at first was the beguiling Christmas decorations that filled the entire department store. Whether I was planning to buy something or not did not matter at this point, the Christmas vibe alone made me want to stay there all day. All window displays almost compete on who can become more Christmas-y.! The stained glass, mosaic tiles, and Belle Époque designs all intertwine with the decorations to create an incredible ambiance.

7 days in Paris Itinerary: Day 5

Hilly, historic, and hipster – three words that accurately describe the Montmartre neighborhood. Perched on top of the highest hill in Paris, Montmartre is a world on its own. Walking through the streets of the neighborhood is like walking through an old French village with winding narrow alleys, cobbled streets, houses still as rustic as ever, and staircases that disappear into the dark. We walked around Montmartre for a while, enjoying its little alleys, and then headed over to Sacre-Coeur. If you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, visit the renowned Moulin Rouge at night.

Sacre-Couer

Sacre Coeur is an enchanting fairytale that has come to life. A Roman-Byzantinian design takes over the church from its exterior while magical spiraling steps, bells, mosaics, and stained glass windows all steal the show from the interior. For incredible views of Paris, try to climb up to the Basilica’s Dome.

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower does not need an introduction. Piercing the sky proudly, the tower makes it hard not to stop and stare. Glimmering into the sky, the Eiffel Tower is there with all of its clichéd glory for you to explore.

You can climb up the stairs, or take an elevator up to the third floor where you can get gorgeous views of the city above with the hoards of tourists below, or watch an educational movie about the tower’s history. For the cherry on top, you can visit Gustave Eiffel’s office.

After you’re done exploring, head over to Restaurant 58 Tour Eiffel and have the meal of a lifetime. You’ll be enjoying lunch from inside the Eiffel Tower with the best views you’ll ever have in your lifetime.

More info: Eiffel Tower

Tip: The queues to enter the Eiffel Tower are long and you might have to wait for hours to enter especially in high season. A great way to skip the lines is by taking a guided tour or buying a skip-the-line ticket. Please book your tickets in advance (even weeks) to avoid disappointment.

Here are some recommended tickets and tours of the Eiffel Tower (all with skip the line access):

• Eiffel Tower Tickets: Summit-Level Access
• Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Ticket and Small Group Tour

Another great idea is to combine your priority ticket to the Eiffel Tower with a Seine Cruise.

• Two-in-One: Eiffel Tower and Seine Cruise Tickets

Seine Boat Cruise

What better way to end your day than by floating on the waters of the Seine, the city of Paris reflected unto the water, the distant sound of a violin playing, the intertwining of foreign chatter in the background? We ended our day by sitting back and relaxing with a glass of wine and a 4-course meal  – all while passing the most important monuments in Paris. We did a dinner cruise with Bateaux Mouches and it was one of the highlights of our visit.

You can read about my Dinner Cruise along the Seine with Bateaux Mouches River Cruise here.

7 days in Paris Itinerary: Day 6

Take a day trip to versailles.

Reflecting the power of King Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles is an embodiment of French architecture and art. Even though it’s outside of Paris, the monument is still one of the most visited in all of France. The chateau is grand, a little bit intimating, and quite exhausting. But nothing should stop you from exploring the exquisite interiors and exteriors of this palace. We checked out the Hall of Mirrors, the landscapes, the Chapel, the auditorium, the Grand Apartment, and Marie Antoinette’s apartment!

The queues at the Palace of Versailles are huge. It is recommended to buy a priority admission ticket.

More info: Palace of Versailles

Free entrance with the Paris City Pass / Museum Pass -no skip the line

The queues at the Palace of Versailles are huge. It is recommended to buy a priority admission ticket. Click here to book your skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide. Alternatively, you can book a Versailles Palace & Gardens: Skip the line Ticket, Audio Guide & Transfer with bus from Paris I highly recommend, Closing Time at Versailles: Small-Group Palace Tour After the Crowds with Garden Show from Paris by the company Take Walks.

Crazy Horse Show

Risqué, posh, glamorous, and intimate – the Crazy Horse is one of the most renowned cabarets in France. Acting as an ode to all things sultry, feminine, and intimate – this cabaret is what you’d imagine you’d see in a French movie. Girls with scarlet lips choreographed dance and burlesque shows, this is how the French entertained themselves years ago.

Find here more information and book your tickets.

7 days in Paris Itinerary: Day 7

While seven days in Paris may first seem like a lot, on your last day, you will realize how fast the time went by and how much you absolutely need one more month at least to get a real gist of all what Paris has to offer. Spend your last day exploring neighborhoods, unwinding at palace gardens and going on food tours.

St. Germain Neighborhood

An artistic hub but also the classiest neighborhood in Paris, we visit St. German for its chic shops, historical sights, window shopping and small art galleries. It was beautiful walking around the alluring neighborhood, the actual literary heart of Paris.

Did you know? Most of the scenes in Midnight in Paris were actually filmed in this neighborhood! This should just convince you why even a simple stroll in this place is worth it!

We actually did a food tour there with Paris by mouth where we got to sample the best bread, cheese, charcuterie, and the best fine wines. Read about my experience here .

Jardin de Luxembourg

The beautiful French gardens mix Latin quarters with Italian architecture, Parisian space with greenery, and the modern with the old to create a heavenly garden. Perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, the Luxembourg Garden is a place to unwind by the lake, go pony riding, or read a nice book while a free live band plays their music.

Sitting atop the hill in the Latin Quarter, this former church forms an iconic silhouette in Paris’s skyline. Including a necropolis, a crypt, sculptures, and tombs – the Pantheon is vast. Originally a church and now a mausoleum, it’s worth checking out the impressive architecture of this edifice.

Paris City Pass

Visiting a city for the first time is usually an overwhelming experience. You’re met with hundreds of attractions and a lot of planning. You need to think of what attractions to see, how much to pay for each, where to book tickets, admission fees, and long, long lines.

To reduce that incredible amount of stress and have a carefree trip, we decided to purchase the Paris City Pass, and it made our entire trip so much easier. Basically, you get an all-inclusive pass to experience the best of Paris – with over 60 attractions and museums and the chance for us to skip most lines. You’ll see through the article why the “skip the line” option is essential!

This way you can purchase discounted tickets, you save a lot of money, and you get to spend more on other expenses during your vacation while also having more time in general.

The Paris City Pass also offers free transportation around the city.

Check out more information and book your Paris City Pass.

Best Time to Visit Paris

Paris is an incredible vacation destination year-round thanks to its changeable climate and its varying events throughout the year. Whether you explore Christmas markets in the snow in December or bask in the summer sun in the Jardins throughout Paris, you’re sure to enjoy your time in the city of lights and love.

Thanks to Paris’ relatively small size and great public transport system, it is easy to get around the city come rain or shine both on foot and under cover. Plus, this awesome city has both outdoor sights to see as well as tons of indoor activities to keep everyone entertained. Therefore, there’s no reason to use weather as an excuse not to visit.

Springtime in Paris is unsurprisingly beautiful as days start to warm up and the trees and flowers across the city are in full bloom. Make the most of dry days with long slow walks meandering along the banks of the seine; taking in the sights and street markets before stopping to enjoy the café culture in the bistros that have opened their pavement dining tables after the cold of winter. Paris in spring boasts blue skies but fewer tourists, so is probably the best time to visit the city.

N.B If you think you might visit Paris in May, find out when the Nuit de Musee (Night of Museums) is and try to plan your trip around this. It is a night when all of the city’s galleries and museums open their doors to the public free of charge and is a wonderful way to spend an evening.

Summer really starts to hot up in Paris and tourists from all over the world start to flock in to explore Le Louvre, the Champs-Elysées and the Eiffel Tower. While we all want a little sun sometimes, summer in the city can be a bit much. The metro system becomes stifling and the queues unbearable so a visit to Paris in summer is probably best reserved for those who have visited before and would rather take slow strolls around the city and discover some unknown spots. Many of Paris’ citizens head out on holiday during July and August but their numbers are definitely replaced by the thousands of external visitors.

As the colours of Autumn come into play in Paris you’re in for a real treat. The avenues and boulevards are lined with burnt orange leaves and the golden light makes for stunning photographic opportunities around the city. Tourist numbers start to die down, allowing for a much more relaxing trip and prices are lower than the rest of the year. This is the perfect time of year to explore the city of lights before spending long, slow evenings dining out French-style on indulgent meals with friends and family.

Winter months in Paris are marked by generally crisp, clear days with temperatures mostly in single figures. This is a wonderful time to wrap up warm, dip in and out of cafés for steaming cups of chocolat chaud, and discover the city’s amazing collection of museums. Christmas markets pop up along the Champs-Elysées around the end of November and the ice rink at the Hotel de Ville is truly magical.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris’ metro system is easy to understand with colors and numbers pointing the way. The metro snakes its way throughout the city and connects with overland trains and national TGV (high-speed) services so you can explore both the city and its surroundings without any hassle or confusion. Nearly all stations have automatic ticket machines that operate in a number of languages and there are a range of tickets to purchase depending on the length of your stay. Either buy a book of 10 billets which are each valid for a single journey (on the bus or metro), purchase a day pass or invest in a multi-day ticket which you can use to hop on-and-off public transport around the city with ease.

While the bus system is a little more difficult to understand, it does serve some places that are not on the metro line, so research your route first or ask in your accommodation about the best way to get around by bus.

Another option for exploring the city of lights is by bike. Paris was one of the first cities in the world to set up the pick-up/drop-off bicycle system and there are bikes available throughout the city. This is a great way to get around quite quickly, while still being able to see the sights along the way.

Finally, if the weather allows, discovering the city by foot is arguably one of the best options. Paris’ architecture and city design are truly stunning and with parks and gardens popping up all over the place it’s a beautiful space to stroll. Plus, by walking around the city you are able to find some real gems like vintage shops, quirky cafés, and unknown museums, as well as being able to watch daily Parisienne life go by.

How to Save Time and Money in Paris

The elegant city of Paris is one of the most luxurious places to live and visit in the world, with high-end dining, exquisite hotels, and perfect patisseries that are just calling out to be bought and devoured. However, this does mean that the cost of a trip to the city of lights and love can start to rack up quite quickly. That’s not to say there aren’t budget options though, so here are a few tips on where to save and when to splurge.

Accommodation:

While you may want to spend on a five-star hotel if you’re on a romantic break to Paris, there are plenty of cheaper options for groups of friends traveling on a budget. The city has some great hostels and budget hotels that are still well-located for exploring the city. Plus, if you visit in the shoulder season such as September and October, you are much more likely to get a great deal on your accommodation.

Of course, dining out in Paris is a must, but thankfully delicious French cuisine comes at every budget. Rather than sitting down for breakfast, head to a boulangerie to pick up some fresh pastries and eat them as you wander around the city to save some pretty pennies first thing. Then find a prix-fixe menu for lunch which offer two or three courses for under 20 euros! These are quite common, especially around the Latin Quarter.

Transport and Tickets:

As mentioned above, walking and public transport are both great options in Paris, and multi-day tickets are bound to save you money if you think you’ll be exploring all corners of the city. The Paris City Pass includes both attraction tickets and transportation so you can have everything you need in one pass for a fantastic price.

Major museums such as the Louver and Musée d’Orsay and the Arc de Triomphe are included which are a must for anyone visiting Paris for the first time, so it’s worth the investment. This pass also offers queue-jump privileges, so you will be saving both time and money!

Free Things:

While shopping on the Champs-Elysées is most definitely expensive, many other attractions and sights across the city are free, and making the most of these is essential. Wandering along the Seine is one of the free highlights as you can see many of the main sights while walking in a beautiful setting.

Churches too are mostly free and with Notre Dame and Sacre Coeur being some of the most stunning works of architecture in the world, visiting is a must. If you’re European and under 26 a number of museums and attractions are free of charge as long as you have your passport or identity card on hand! Plus, many museums open their doors free of charge on the first Sunday of the month, so plan your trip accordingly if you want to save!

Spending seven days in Paris is guaranteed to give you the trip of a lifetime with memories you cannot create elsewhere. You’ll be able to visit all of Paris’s different sides – the glamorous, the historic, the medieval, the natural, and the symbolic. You’ll have time to get lost in neighborhoods or enjoy museums almost every day!

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Top 10 Paris Day Trips You Should Know About

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Welcome to our guide on the best day trip destinations from Paris! If you find yourself in the enchanting city of Paris with a bit of extra time, venturing beyond its borders for a day trip is an excellent way to enhance your French experience.

Paris, while a world unto itself, is also a gateway to the diverse and beautiful regions of France, a country celebrated as the most visited in the world.

During the past 16 years, I was lucky enough to explore the regions around Paris on countless day trips myself. For a broader picture, I also asked fellow travelers, which day trips they loved the most.

The result is this guide with the best day trips from Paris. Tailored for those who have soaked up the Parisian charm and are now eager to discover what lies beyond.

From picturesque countryside to historic towns, each destination offers a unique glimpse into French culture and heritage. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the most captivating day trips from Paris, perfect for adding depth and diversity to your travel itinerary.

Before diving into all of your day trip options, see below the most popular day trips from Paris:

Highlights: the most popular Paris Day Trips:

The 10 best day trips from paris.

Paris is a sleepless city with more fantastic things to do than you can squeeze into one trip. But with all its buzz, beauty, and density of highlights, it can be suffocating at times.

You will probably need some air at one point, or maybe you are keen on seeing a bit more of France than its capital. Either way, the best way to escape the city is by planning a day trip outside of Paris.

Luckily, Paris is close to many stunning and interesting destinations. So many, that it can even be challenging to find the best day trip from Paris. There are even some of France’s nicest beaches near Paris !

The options are endless, but to save you from decision paralysis, I asked around and compiled a list of the best Paris day trips for you.

#1 Château de Versailles 

→ Book your day trip from Paris to Versailles here

The Versailles Palace is a castle you must visit if you are spending a few days in Paris. It is the easiest day trip from Paris by train because it takes around 30 minutes to travel by train from Paris to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station.  If you are not comfortable taking the train to Versailles on your own, you can also join a tour. Click here for more information and prices .

Honestly, you could easily spend a day or more exploring the Castle and the beautifully landscaped gardens. But if you are short on time, you can also easily make it a quick half day trip from Paris.  It is still enough time to visit the Château and parts of the gardens.

#2 Reims & the Champagne Region

→ See the best Champagne Tours from Paris here

Only an hour’s train ride to the northeast of Paris, Reims is a MUST on your next visit to the City of Lights. While the small town is undoubtedly known for its Champagne houses, the capital of France’s Champagne region is also complete with a world-class fine-dining scene, historical monuments, and incredible Art Deco architecture, too.

That said, the Champagne was the real reason I made the day trip from Paris to the Champagne region — and I loved it!

★ The (by far!) most popular Day Trip to Champagne

If you are more interested in Champagne and less in Reims: This tour is the most efficient and complete Champagne experience you can have in just one day. It contains:

• 3 Champagne house visits & tastings
• visit of Epernay & Hautvillers
• Masterclass led by wine expert
• Vineyard visits
• Transportation & small group
• English-speaking guide

Keep these important tips in mind to make your trip to Champagne worthwhile:

• Avoid Sundays or Mondays when most of the town is closed.
• Be sure to reserve tastings when visiting Tattinger, Veuve Cliquot, and Pommery — where else are you going to get to taste those Champagnes at a fraction of the price of the bottle?!
• Your day is sure to be filled with multiple bubbly flutes and several cellar staircases, so remember, you do not need to finish all the Champagne given to you (although you should definitely try!).
• be sure to make reservations ahead — some Champagne Houses require it!

Favorite day tour from The Globe Diary Blog

#3 Giverny, the Gardens of Monet

Take a look at our complete guide on how to visit the Gardens of Monet from Paris

Giverny is the perfect one-day trip from Paris, and you don’t need to be a great fan of Monet and Impressionism to enjoy the beautiful gardens .

Giverny’s single attraction is the house in which Claude Monet lived from 1883 until his death in 1926. He created splendid gardens that served as a source of inspiration for his paintings.

Visiting the gardens feels like an invisible door opens to one of his paintings, and you enter the magic world of flowers, water lilies, wisterias, and the play of sunlight on the water’s surface . Besides the home of Monet, you can also visit the Museum of Impressionism in the village. There are also lovely art galleries and cafés.

The house of Monet is open for visitors from the end of March until the beginning of November . Although it can be very crowded on a sunny day, the beauty of the gardens is so immense that it is worth visiting it! Just make sure you are booking your tickets ahead of time!

This actually happened to me despite better knowledge. It took us an hour to find a parking place and when we finally arrived the queue was so long and did not move at all, that we just went back to Paris. 

#4 Dieppe in Normandy

→ Book your train ticket for Dieppe here

Sweating in Paris in the summer? Hop on a train to Dieppe to enjoy the food and beaches of Normandy! In Dieppe, you find one of the beaches close to Paris . The water’s incredibly blue, the limestone cliffs are an artist’s dream, and a galette with 4 types of local cheese is surely life-changing. A day trip to Dieppe is the perfect escape!

For the practical part: Dieppe is around 200 km north of Paris in the region of Normandy . The best way to get there is by train, from Paris Saint Lazare. It costs 19-36 Euros each way and takes around 2 hours. ( Book your tickets here ) If you’re on a really tight budget, there’s also a bus service to Dieppe through Flixbus.

For Budget Travelers: Don’t miss our guide on how to easily save money in Paris and our very extensive list of things to do in Paris for free .

Once you’re in Dieppe, throw away your detailed itineraries because this is a location to be wandered without a plan. The winding streets of the little port town are filled with adorable restaurants, boutiques, colorful houses, and Canadian flags (to honor the fallen from WWII).

You can’t miss the gorgeous beach, which is pebbly at high tide and sandy at low. Make sure to bring water shoes to explore cliffside caves and forgotten bunkers.

Bored of the beach? Head to the castle, hike the topside of the cliffs, enjoy some pastries, or learn about WWII history.

#5 Loire Valley & Loire Castles

→ Book your day trip to the Castles of the Loire here

One of the best things about visiting Europe is getting to see the castles. France in particular has many fantastic castles that are not to be missed. If you find yourself in Paris, a day trip to the Loire Valley is a must! Here you’ll find many incredible castles that will make you feel as if you’re back in medieval times.

From Paris, you can rent a car and give yourself a self-guided tour or opt for a paid group tour that will take you to the most popular castles in the area.

A few of the top castles that should be on your list are the Chateau d’Amboise, Chateau de Chenonceau, and the Chateau de Chambord . If you’re a Beauty and the Beast fan, be sure to check out the Chateau de Chambord – it was the inspiration for Beast’s castle! A day trip from Paris to the Loire Valley is sure to add a bit of magic to your trip.

#6 D-Day Landing Beaches in Normandy

→ save time and check the best Landing Beaches tour here right away

Around two hours northwest of Paris lies the Normandy region.  Although well-known for its quaint coastal villages, old stone cottages, ancient wars, and the famous Bayeux Tapestry, it is the World War II D-Day Landing Beaches that wrote Normandy into the modern history books. This history makes Normandy one of the most popular Paris day trips.

It is on these five beaches – code-named Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword – that the Allied Forces began the liberation of France from German occupation on June 6, 1944.  Doing so helped bring an end to the war in Europe.

Tip : Also read our post about the French Resistance Museum in Paris!

Today, the area is part memorial to those soldiers who were killed during this operation, with a number of war cemeteries and museums. You can also visit some of the German bunkers and garrisons still existing at Pointe du Hoc with their bullet-pocked and bomb-scarred walls.

Visiting the landing beaches is a great day trip and is best done with a tour guide who can explain the history and significance of the area.

Normandy is also known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to visit one of the many restaurants around this area. And while there, also sample some Calvados – the region’s famous apple brandy.

How to visit the French Landing Beaches

Where are the D-Day Landing Beaches? The closest landing beach, Juno is 250km west of Paris

Best way to visit?  I advise visiting the D-Day Landing Beaches by taking an organized tour from Paris. One of the best tours is the “ Normandy D-Day Battlefield and Beaches Day Trip ” ( click here for detailed information)

This tour includes

• Utah Beach Museum
• Normandy American Cemetery
• Pointe du Hoc Visit
• Calvados and Cider Tasting
• Roundtrip transportation from Paris to Normandy
• Lunch including drinks
• Professional & English-speaking Tour guide

Click here for prices and schedules

#7 Bordeaux

→ Read our detailed guide on how to take a day trip from Paris to Bordeaux 

You may not realize that other French cities, like the stunning and incredible Bordeaux, are only a couple of hours away from Paris via train. So, even if it’s quite far in distance, the fantastic train coverage in France makes it possible, that a day trip to Bordeaux from Paris is actually something that you do!

Bordeaux is a great city for a day trip from Paris . The train station isn’t far from the city center, and the center of Bordeaux is easy to get around on foot and by tram, so there’s no need to worry about a rental car.

Bordeaux actually reminds many of a smaller version of Paris. It’s equally enchanting. A large part of Bordeaux has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its impressive architecture of the city.

Wondering what to do in Bordeaux on a day trip?  There are many great restaurants and museums, and the city is surrounded by world-famous wineries and vineyards that you can visit.

What to do in Bordeaux?

For example, during a 4h tour of the beautiful medieval wine village of St. Emilion ( click here for more info ). You can also take an open-top bus tour to discover Bordeaux, walk around the Place des Quinconces or admire the Monument aux Girondins. A visit to the Place de la Bourse should also be on your itinerary and be sure to save time for some wine at one of Bordeaux’s many wine bars.

Thanks for the ideas,   Savored Journeys 

#8 Disneyland Paris 

→ Read our quick tips to visit Disneyland Paris here

Sure, France is full of real life fairy tale castles, but there’s something extra magical about being at Disneyland’s, perhaps it’s the fire breathing dragon underneath.

Disneyland Paris, formerly Euro Disney, is easy to get to from central Paris by car, train, or even a Disney bus. Certainly, the easiest and most cost-effective option is the train. Disneyland Paris is located directly beside the Marne-la-Vallee/Chessy train station, only a 35-minute ride outside of Paris.

Once there you can expect all the Disney magic you’ll find at the other parks around the world, but in my experience, about ¼ of the crowds . Of course, Disneyland Paris is a great place to take the family, but it’s fun for adults too. It has exciting rides for every age and unlike its American cousins, at Disneyland Paris you can grab a beer or wine to enjoy while you stroll through the park.

Just don’t have so much fun that you lose track of time. There are occasions when the last bus and train back to Paris leaves before the parks close, and that’s an expensive Uber.

Thanks  Mags on the Move for the tips

#9 Chateau Vaux le Vicomte

Favourite day trip from Paris from a World to Travel

This impressive Château is more than three centuries old and home to stories I won’t reveal here, but are absolutely worth listening to from someone in the know when visiting. If the architecture seems familiar, it’s not by chance: the Château Vaux le Vicomte inspired many other famous paces and gardens, like those of Versailles for example.

All in all, this château was one of the prettiest at the time. So, if you are in love with classic architecture, decadence, and grandeur, do not forget to put this palace on your list of things to do near Paris. It’s a lovely day trip from Paris and you can look forward to a day among renaissance gardens, perspective games, decadent high-ceiling rooms, and hidden pools.

Furthermore, make sure to pay a visit to the rooftop lookout. Your best pictures of the Chateau Vaux le Vicomte await you there !

How to get the re best:  Most conveniently, you can book a tour that covers both castles, the Château Vaux le Vicomte and the Palace of Fontainebleau . The most popular tour includes transportation by coach from Paris, entrance fees, and also an audio guide click here for more info, prices and bookings

Not that kind of castle you’re looking for? What about a trip to Villa Savoye!

#10 Mont-Saint-Michel

→ Book your day trip to the Mont-Saint-Michel here at a surprisingly low price

Where is the Mont St. Michel, and what is it? The Mont Saint Michel is an Island about 1 km offshore and is home to a monastery and abbey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site lays 360 km east from Paris.

How to visit the Mont Saint Michel:

If you are looking to take a road trip, renting a car is a good idea. (you can see prices of rental cars from Paris here)  But given that it’s quite a ride and rental cars are rather pricey, I’d advise simply booking a guided Mont Saint Michel day tour from Paris.

This tour has great reviews and is only a bit more expensive than renting a car, but way more relaxing.

I know it’s nevertheless utterly far for a day trip, but it’s so worth it! Taking a day trip from Paris to Mont St. Michel is clearly one of the best day tours from Paris that you can take.

Are you traveling to Paris in Winter ? Why not taking a day trip to Strasbourg to see the oldest Christmas Market of Europe? Click here to get all information !

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Great post- there are so many great choices. I love visiting Disneyland Paris and make sure to visit every time I go to Paris. I agree that the crowds are much less than the other Disney parks in the world (except maybe Hong Kong Disneyland). It makes it easier to see everything in the park in one day with fewer crowds. There are so many fun attractions. I love Crush’s Coaster so much- one of my favourite Disney attractions ever.

Thank you so much for your comment.. that reminds me that I really have to go back to Disneyland Paris soon! 🙂 Have a nice day!

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Blinken: G7 is 'committed to de-escalating'

Antony Blinken , the US secretary of state, addressed the press today at the conclusion of the G7 meeting of foreign ministers in Capri , Italy .

On behalf of the G7, he condemned Iran ’s cruise missile and drone attack on Israel that prompted an airstrike today on Isfahan , that the US says it has confirmed was carried out by Israel . It hasn not yet been confirmed by Israel or Iran.

“We’re committed to Israel’s security,” Blinken said. “We’re also committed to de-escalating.”

He noted that despite the tensions with Israel and Iran , “we remain intensely focused on Gaza”.

This day so far

It is currently 7pm in Gaza , 8pm in Tel Aviv, and 8.30pm in Tehran.

Here is a summary of what has happened so far:

the Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, said that drones reportedly fired by Israel at the Iranian city of Isfahan did not cause “any damage or casualties”, as reported by Iranian media.

The US Congress is pushing forward a $95m national security package that would provide additional aid to Israel following Israel’s reported airstrike in Iran. The bill overcame a massive hurdle with the support of Democrats in the House of Representatives. If approved this weekend, it will be sent to the Senate.

A spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry denounced the US’s veto of a Palestinian request to the UN security council, blocking the world body’s recognition of a Palestinian state. Iranian diplomat Nasser Kanani called the veto “irresponsible” and “unconstructive”.

Thank you for reading the latest updates on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Drones reportedly fired by Israel at the city of Isfahan in Iran caused no damage or casualties, said the Iranian foreign minister, Reuters reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian gave remarks on the drone attack while speaking with envoys of Muslim nations in New York.

“The Zionist regime’s media supporters, in a desperate effort, tried to make victory out of their defeat, while the downed mini-drones have not caused any damage or casualties,” Amirabdollahian said, according to Iranian media.

Here is an analysis of what Israel’s latest attack on Iran means for the political survival of the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu , from the Guardian’s Bethan McKernan.

In the aftermath of Iran’s unprecedented salvo of missiles and drones fired directly at Israel at the weekend, Benny Gantz, a centrist member of the Israeli war cabinet, said that the country would respond “in the place, time and manner it chooses”. On Friday morning, that turned out to be explosions in the central Iranian city of Isfahan . Although no Israeli official has claimed responsibility for what seem to have been drone strikes on a military installation , Tehran, which retaliated after an airstrike on its consulate in Damascus, has downplayed the incident. The limited response may have for now staved off the threat of regional war. Unclaimed drone attacks on a military site in Isfahan are unlikely to satisfy supporters or critics of Israel’s longtime leader, Benjamin Netanyahu , or restore the level of deterrence Israel enjoyed in the region before the Hamas attack of 7 October. “Netanyahu, who has been threatening to attack Iran for 20 years, has realised a dream, or at least part thereof. The question is what about us, the people,” defence analyst and columnist for the leftwing Israeli daily Haaretz, Amos Harel, wrote on Friday. Meanwhile, Netanyahu ally and the far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, reacted with just one word – “Feeble!” – in a post on X, formerly Twitter. The Israeli prime minister may have achieved several short-term wins here. The muted Iranian reaction has soothed an anxious Israeli public before the week-long Passover holiday. Israel has also struck while it still has international diplomatic support for such an action, before the sense of urgency wanes and the world’s focus returns to the war in Gaza and its deepening famine …

Read the full article here .

A spokesperson for the foreign affairs ministry of Iran condemned the US’s veto to block full United Nations membership for Palestine, calling the decision “irresponsible”, AFP reported.

The US vetoed the Palestinian request to the UN security council, blocking the world body’s recognition of a Palestinian state.

The US was the only country to oppose the request on the 15-member security council. Twelve nations were in favor. The UK and Switzerland abstained.

“Washington’s action exposed the fraudulent nature of US foreign policy and its isolated position,” Iranian diplomat Nasser Kanani said.

Kanani added that Washington’s veto was “irresponsible” and “unconstructive”.

The US Congress is pushing forward a $95bn national security package that would provide additional aid to Israel following Israel’s airstrike in Iran.

The bill was moved forward in the House of Representatives following a critical procedural vote, the Associated Press reported. The legislation would also provide humanitarian support to Taiwan and Ukraine.

Aid for the international conflict between Russia and Ukraine has received faltering support from far-right conservatives, threatening the bill’s passage.

With the latest procedural obstacle cleared, the bill could be approved by the House this weekend and then sent to the Senate.

Afternoon summary

It has gone 5pm in Gaza , 6pm in Tel Aviv and 6.30pm in Tehran. Here is a summary of the day’s events so far:

Speaking publicly at the G7 meeting in Capri, the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, declined to elaborate further on the reported Israeli attack on Iran, except to say his country had not been involved. “I’m not going to speak to that except to say that the United States has not been involved in any offensive operations,” Blinken said.

Blinken said while the Gy was “committed” to Israel’s security, “we’re also committed to de-escalating ”. “What the G7 is focused on, and it’s reflected in our statement and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflict,” he said. “You saw Israel on the receiving end of an unprecedented attack, but our focus has been on, of course, making sure that Israel can effectively defend itself, but also de-escalating tensions and avoiding conflict. That remains our focus.”

At a separate news conference moments before Blinken, Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, said the US was “informed at the last minute” but did not elaborate.

Air defence systems over several Iranian cities were activated, state media reported , after the country’s official broadcaster said explosions were heard near the city of Isfahan , home to sites associated with Iran’s nuclear program, including its underground Natanz enrichment site.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says there is no damage to Iran’s nuclear sites. In a post on X, the agency said it continues to monitor the situation very closely and calls for extreme restraint from all sides, stressing that “nuclear facilities should never be a target in military conflicts”.

French police arrested a man who had threatened to blow himself up at Iran’s consulate in Paris on Friday afternoon. A police source told Reuters that the man was seen at about 11am (9am GMT) entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest. The man exited the consulate and was not actually carrying explosives, the source said.

Four Israeli extremist settlers in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem have been today sanctioned by the EU along with two entities over alleged “serious human rights abuses against Palestinians”.

The US also added to its settler-related sanctions today by imposing sanctions on two entities that the US said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank already targeted with US sanctions.

The Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, on Friday spoke by phone to his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian, at Iran’s request to discuss regional developments , a Turkish diplomatic source told Reuters. The source did not provide further details.

German airline group Lufthansa has suspended flights to Israel and Iraq until early Saturday. Lufthansa subsidiary Austrian Airlines also decided as a “precautionary measure” to suspend flights to Jordan’s capital Amman, as well as Erbil and Tel Aviv on Friday “to comprehensively reassess the security situation”. Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines had already suspended their flights to and from Tehran up until the end of the month.

Polish national airline LOT canceled flights on Friday to Tel Aviv and Beirut due to the unstable situation in the region, a spokesperson was quoted as saying by state news agency PAP.

Here’s a look at the area targeted last night in what the US has confirmed as an Israeli military operation in Iran:

EU imposes sanctions on four Israeli settlers

The individuals on the list are: Neria Ben Pazi , 31. According to the EU’s official journal, the reason for the listing was that Ben Pazi “established four of the most violent outposts in the West Bank in 2019”. He was “one of the main perpetrators of the forced displacement of a Bedouin community of Wadi Seeq near Ramalah. His actions “have been likened to torture”, the official journal said, including an attack on 12 October last year in which Palestinians were “severely beaten, handcuffed and photographed in their underwear” as well as “urinated on”.

Another Israeli, Yinon Levi , 32, is accused of “multiple violent acts” including storming and damaging houses of Palestinian families and setting dogs on farmers.

Also on the list is Meir Mordechai Ettinger , 33, “considered a leading figure of the Hilltop Youth, a radical youth group consisting of members known for violent acts against Palestinians and their villages in the West Bank.

According to the official journal he was involved in a deadly arson attack in 2015, that killed two parents and their 18-month-old baby, for which he was detained without charge that same year.

Another member of the group, Names as Elisha Yered , born in 2001, was reported to engage in settler violence through so-called “price tag attacks” including “physical and psychosocial harassment, beatings, murder and demolition of property, against Palestinians is of a systematic nature”.

The journal says he was “part of a group of armed settlers” involved in an attack last year near Ramallah which led to the death of the 19-year-old Palestinian Qusai Jammal Mi’tan and wounded several other Palestinians”.

One of the two entities named is Lehava , which the EU’s official journal describes as a “radical right-wing Jewist supremacist group” which “uses violence and incites violence against Palestinians, Christians and Messianic Jews”. According to the journal, Lehava “organises violent protests against Jewish Muslim weddings and the LGBQTi community”.

The other entity is named as Hilltop Youth , described by the journal as “a radical group consisting of members known for violent acts against Palestinians and their villages in the West Bank”.

The judgment can be read here: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202401172

US sanctions on entities that raised funds for West Bank settlers

The US treasury department announced today that the US is imposing sanctions on Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich – two entities that the US said helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for two violent extremists in the West Bank already targeted with US sanctions.

Mount Hebron Fund launched an online fundraising campaign that raised $140,000 for settler Yinon Levi after he was sanctioned in February for leading a group of settlers that assaulted Palestinian and Bedouin civilians, burned their fields and destroyed their property, the Treasury said.

Shlom Asiraich raised $31,000 for David Chai Chasdai , who the US said had initiated and led a riot that included setting vehicles and buildings on fire and causing damage to property in Huwara , resulting in the death of a Palestinian civilian.

“Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich generated tens of thousands of dollars for extremists responsible for destroying property, assaulting civilians, and violence against Palestinians,” said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. “Such acts by these organizations undermine the peace, security, and stability of the West Bank. We will continue to use our tools to hold those responsible accountable.”

The US has previously sanctioned five settlers and two unauthorized outposts in the West Bank.

At least 34,012 Palestinians have been killed and 76,833 others have been injured by Israel ’s military offensive since the 7 October, Gaza ’s health ministry said on Friday.

The Hama s-run health ministry does not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants.

Man arrested in Paris after police cordon off Iranian consulate due to reported bomb threat

French police arrested a man who had threatened to blow himself up at Iran’s consulate in Paris , police said, Reuters reported.

A police source had told Reuters the man was seen at about 11 am (0900 GMT) entering the consulate, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest.

The man exited the consulate and was not actually carrying explosives, a police source said.

You can follow more updates from Lili Bayer in the Europe live blog here:

Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan on Friday spoke by phone to his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian at Iran ’s request to discuss regional developments, a Turkish diplomatic source told Reuters.

The source did not provide further details.

Blinken says conversations on Rafah at senior levels with Israel continue

Further to the comments by Blinken already reported on the blog, there are some more lines from Reuters on what the US secretary of state said on the topic of Gaza .

At a press conference on Friday after a gathering of G7 foreign ministers on the southern Italian island of Capri , Blinken told reporters “we cannot support a major military operation in Rafah”. He said conversations on Rafah , in the southern Gaza Strip , continue at senior levels with Israel .

Blinken said he believed that “Israel’s objectives can be achieved” without a Rafah offensive. He added: “We are committed to achieving a Palestinian state with necessary guarantees for Israel.”

Qatar expressed regret on Friday over the failure of the UN security council to adopt a draft resolution recognising a Palestinian state through full membership of the UN (see 08:14 BST ), according to Reuters.

The United Arab Emirates said on Friday that granting Palestinians full membership in the UNwould be “an important step to boost peace efforts in the region”, the state-run WAM news agency reported.

German airline group Lufthansa has suspended flights to Israel and Iraq until early Saturday.

Services by airlines of the group to Tel Aviv in Israel and Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan were suspended until 5am GMT due to the “current situation”, a spokesperson told AFP.

Lufthansa subsidiary Austrian Airlines also decided as a “precautionary measure” to suspend flights to Jordan ’s capital Amman , as well as Erbil and Tel Aviv on Friday “to comprehensively reassess the security situation”.

“Austrian Airlines continuously monitors and assesses the security situation in the Middle East and is in close contact with the authorities,” Austrian Airlines said in a statement sent to AFP.

Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines had already suspended their flights to and from Tehran up until the end of the month.

“Today’s flight 151/152 to Israel from Warsaw and to Beirut 143/144 have been cancelled,” Krzysztof Moczulski told PAP, according to a Reuters report. Moczulski said decisions about future flights would be made on an ongoing basis.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken repeatedly declined to confirm a reported Israeli attack on Iran on Friday, saying Washington has not been involved in any offensive operations and it was committed to de-escalating tensions in the region, reports Reuters.

“I’m not going to speak to that except to say that the United States has not been involved in any offensive operations,” Blinken said at a news conference capping a gathering of G7 foreign ministers on the southern Italian island of Capri . According to Reuters reporters, the top US diplomat kept repeating the same response, almost verbatim, when he was asked about the issue several times at the news conference.

At a separate news conference moments before Blinken, Italy’s foreign minister Antonio Tajani said the US was “informed at the last minute” but did not elaborate (see 11:58 BST ).

Explosions echoed over the Iranian city of Isfahan in the early hours of Friday in what sources described as an Israeli attack, say Reuters, but Tehran played down the incident and indicated it had no plans for retaliation – a response that appeared gauged towards averting region-wide war.

Israel said nothing about the incident. It had said for days it was planning to retaliate against Iran for Saturday’s strikes, the first direct attack on Israel by Iran in decades of shadow war waged by proxies which has escalated throughout the Middle East .

United Nations secretary general António Guterres said on Friday that “it is high time to stop the dangerous cycle of retaliation in the Middle East,” his spokesperson said in a statement.

“The secretary general condemns any act of retaliation and appeals to the international community to work together to prevent any further development that could lead to devastating consequences for the entire region and beyond,” Stéphane Dujarric said, accroding to Reuters.

Iran has been trying to reassure people that the country did not face a major threat after airstrikes were carried out in the Isfahan province on Friday.

A news anchor said everything was “back to normal” in a report aired on Press TV, the Iranian state broadcaster’s English-language outlet.

In another clip, said to be filmed in Isfahan and published by Iranian media, an unidentified person is heard saying there had been no damage to the area.

Officials in Washington said Israeli forces were carrying out military operations against Iran but did not describe the character or scale of those operations. Israel and Iran are yet to confirm the source of the strikes.

• Israel-Gaza war
• Middle East crisis live
• Palestinian territories
• Middle East and north Africa

More on this story

Gulf states’ response to Iran-Israel conflict may decide outcome of crisis

Muted Iranian reaction to attack provides short-term wins for Netanyahu

Israel has mounted airstrikes on iran, us confirms, as tehran plays down attack.

What we know so far about Israel’s strike on Iran

Iran and Israel playing with fire as old rules of confrontation are torn up

What’s in Isfahan? The city home to Iranian nuclear facilities

US to impose new sanctions against Iran after its air attack on Israel

Netanyahu aims to trap west into war across Middle East, says Iranian diplomat

Middle East conflict risks sharp rise in oil prices, says IMF

IDF chief of staff says Israel will respond to Iran missile attack

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