Ready to whirl through Paris? Grab your imaginary red beret and let’s hit the streets for a fantastic long weekend in the City of Lights!
From the stunning views atop the Eiffel Tower to the quaint alleys of Montmartre, we’re covering all the must-sees (and a couple of hidden gems). Allez!
Image Credit: Getty Images, Aitormmfoto. Image Location: Trocadéro, Paris, France
Paris itinerary: day 1 (iconic landmarks and the Seine)
Morning: Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro
Start your Paris adventure with a sunrise visit to the Eiffel Tower. Beat the morning rush and snag those awe-inspiring city views.
Fun fact: Did you know many Parisians originally thought the tower was an eyesore? Now, she reigns as the undeniable queen of Parisian skylines, proving all her naysayers wrong.
Next, hit the Trocadéro Gardens for that quintessential Paris photo op — say cheese!
See also: The best hotels with views of the Eiffel Tower
Late morning: Seine River cruise
Board a cruise on the Seine to see Paris from a new angle. Glide by the stunning Notre-Dame, the majestic Louvre, and the artsy Musée d'Orsay. Wave to the people lining the banks!
Image Credit: Getty Images, Jeremy Walker. Image Location: River Seine, Paris, France
Lunch: the best riverside café in Paris
Duck into a cozy café by the Seine. La Calèche, right across from the Louvre, is a solid choice that won’t break the bank and has some great reviews. Right next door, you’ll find a cool dinner theater called Don Camilo. Try their French onion soup or munch on a croque-monsieur — oh là là!
Local hint: Though not located in central Paris, it might be worth checking out River Café — it’s a fancy floating restaurant on a barge, dishing out gourmet meals and cocktails in a swanky setting on Quai de la Bataille de Stalingrad in Issy-les-Moulineaux.
Afternoon: Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité
Marvel at Notre-Dame’s impressive façade (it’s under renovation, but still a knockout). Don’t miss Sainte-Chapelle nearby; its stained-glass windows will color your day.
Evening: Le Marais vibes
For dinner, explore the vibrant Le Marais district. From falafel to classic French bistros, it’s a foodie’s paradise. Post-meal, wander the quaint streets and trendy boutiques. Discover the lesser-known but charming Place des Vosges, a quiet square perfect for a romantic stroll.
See also: The best hotels in Le Marais
Image Credit: Getty Images, Pascale Gueret. Image Location: Le Marais District, Paris, France
Paris itinerary: day 2 (art, culture, and chic shopping)
Morning: Louvre Museum
Kick off with a visit to the Louvre. A few hours here lets you meet the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Pro tip: Book online to dodge those long lines.
Lunch: café culture
Grab a bite at Café Verlet or Café Blanc near the Louvre or try one of the cafés inside the museum itself. Savor a classic salad, or venture into the local cuisine with a plate of escargot, all while enjoying a side of stunning pyramid views.
See also: The history behind Café de Flore in Paris and why it’s so famous
Image Credit: Getty Images, omersukrugoksu. Image Location: Paris, France
Afternoon: Musée d'Orsay
Stroll to Musée d'Orsay, set in a gorgeous old train station. It’s an Impressionist paradise — hello Monet and Van Gogh!
Late afternoon: Champs-Élysées chic
Hit the Champs-Élysées for some upscale shopping. Wrap up with a climb up the Arc de Triomphe — those views are worth every step.
Evening: Moulin Rouge extravaganza
End the night with dinner and a show at Moulin Rouge. Feathers, sequins, and can-can dancers await!
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Montmartre, Paris, France
Paris itinerary: day 3 (Montmartre and secret Paris)
Morning: Montmartre moments
Explore the artsy nooks of Montmartre. Saunter through its cobblestone streets, check out local art galleries, and soak in the views from the Sacré-Coeur.
Lunch: Montmartre munchies
Relax at a café in Montmartre; there are plenty. How about a quiche Lorraine or a fresh baguette sandwich?
Afternoon: hidden Paris
Discover hidden gems like the tucked-away passages of Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas, brimming with quirky shops and vintage cafés. Find tranquility at the Palais-Royal Gardens, a secret oasis.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Artur Debat. Image Location: Luxembourg Garden, Paris, France
See also: The best neighborhoods to stay in Paris
Late afternoon: leafy Luxembourg in Paris
Wander through Luxembourg Garden, the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful read. Here are some of the best books about Paris to inspire your trip.
Evening: Seine dinner cruise
Wrap up your romantic tour with a dinner cruise on the Seine. Enjoy gourmet French fare as Paris lights up around you.
Extra tips for those visiting Paris for the first time
- Metro magic. Navigate Paris with ease using the Paris Métro. Consider a multi-day pass for the best value.
- Language love. A little French goes a long way! “Bonjour” and “merci” can open doors. Here are 18 French phrases to learn before hopping on a train to Paris.
- Staying sharp. Keep your wits about you in busy spots to avoid pickpockets.
This 3-day itinerary is your ticket to the heart of Paris, blending iconic experiences with local secrets for a truly memorable visit. Ready, set, Paris!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Paris, France
