You finally set aside three full days to spend in Paris as you’ve always dreamt, and you suddenly don’t know how to spend them? Don’t worry, here you have a suggested itinerary.
Photo by Anthony DELANOIX on Unsplash
Paris has been one of the most visited cities in Europe for centuries now, so it’s quite common for people to mention it high up on their dream destinations. Each year around 40 million people arrive to enjoy the rich Parisian history, art, architecture, and cuisine. If you want to be one of them, you’ll soon find that planning the trip can be hard when there’s so much to visit and see and do, especially if you’re going for only three days. But if you plan carefully you can see the most important landmarks in the whole city without overexerting yourself. So read along, take notes, and enjoy planning your itinerary to Paris.
What you should know before planning a vacation to Paris
What is the best time to visit Paris?
If you want to visit the Eiffel Tower under clear blue skies without risking a heat stroke we highly suggest you visit in Spring. But for strolling through the streets, sitting in an outdoor cafe sipping hot coffee, maybe Autumn is better for you. In both seasons you’ll have the best weather paired with fewer crowds and beautiful colors.
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How to get around Paris?
Paris as a city is quite compact, so it’s easy to get around using public transportation like buses, metro, and trains. Even biking or walking can get you to a lot of places in a more leisurely way. You can also get a taxi or use Uber and Bolt if you prefer a more private and comfortable experience.
How many days do you need in Paris?
It really depends on how much time you have and how much you want to see. If you’re just visiting the main landmarks, a day or two might be enough. For a more balanced trip, three days is ideal to see most of the sights, visit some museums, and still have time to relax at a café. If you have more time, you can stay longer without getting bored, but a week might be too much for some people.
Is Paris expensive for travelers?
As much as any popular destination can be, so yes. Paris is expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can travel within a budget and have a wonderful vacation. Just try to be smart and go for the cheaper options when available.
How long will it take to fully explore Paris?
If you want to explore the whole city in depth, it can take 7-10 days. But with that amount of time, you can also profit from some day trips from Paris, so take the chance to explore Versailles, Giverny, or even go to Disneyland Paris.
How can you stay connected in Paris?
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Our 3-Day Itinerary to Paris
Day 1: Paris Landmarks and Seine Cruises
On Day 1 of our 3-day itinerary in Paris, you’ll explore some of Paris’ most famous landmarks and enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Seine River. It’s the perfect way to see the city’s highlights and get a feel for its beauty.
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the spectacular palace of the Arts that you can not skip if you’re in Paris. It can also be a great introduction to the city. After all, we’re talking of the largest and most visited museum in the world, with an astounding 35,000 art pieces and artifacts, including world-renowned pieces like Leonardo’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. The best time to visit is early in the morning when there are fewer visitors.
Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
Jardin des Tuileries
This beautiful garden right next to the Louvre is the perfect place to take a long stroll and enjoy the old glamour of the city. Le Jardin des Tuileries was originally designed as a private garden for the Tuileries Palace for Queen Catherine de’ Medici’s enjoyment in 1564. Afterwards, it was redesigned to be a formal French garden by the same architect who made the landscapes of Versailles.
Today you can walk around and admire the beautiful greenery, as well as the trees, elegant fountains, and the seasonal flower beds. If you want, you can have a picnic at this spot, or visit the Musee de l’Orangerie to admire Monet’s waterlilies.
Arc de Triomphe
One of the most famous spots in all of France, the beautiful Arch de Triomphe was constructed in 1806 after the victory of Napoleon Bonaparte in Austerlitz. It was constructed in the middle of Place Charles de Gaulle, where twelve of the great Avenues of Paris converge. One of the best experiences you can have there is to climb up the 284 steps to the observation deck. From there, you have a breathtaking view of Paris, complete with the Champs-Elysees, Eiffel Tower, and La Defense.
Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash
Seine Dinner Cruise
After so much walking and climbing, you’re ready to relax for a bit and enjoy the most emblematic view of Paris, the Eiffel Tower at Sunset. One of the best ways is to join a Seine Dinner Cruise, with a company like Bateaux Parisiens. The Eiffel Tower might be the more emblematic, but of course, the boats go along more landmarks, and you can watch them all as the sunlight slowly dissolves into the night in gentle orange and violet hues. You can choose a cruise that does not include dinner, but in our opinion, this is one of the best opportunities to enjoy French cuisine in a more relaxed way with great scenery.
Photo by Chris Karidis on Unsplash
Day 2: Versailles Day Trip
On Day 2 of our 3-day Paris itinerary, we take a trip outside Paris to visit the amazing Palace of Versailles. Explore the lavish palace, beautiful gardens, and history of one of France’s most famous landmarks.
Breakfast at a French cafe
French are known for their culinary culture and their breakfast is particularly good, especially with freshly made croissants. There are many Cafes in Paris, but for the most famous internationally and well-loved by Parisians visit Carette in Place des Vosges or Angelina in Rue de Rivoli. If you want a place full of history as well as delicious food try Le Cafe de Flore, a legendary establishment where writers and intellectuals have been gathering since the 17th century.
Versailles Palace
Only a 45-minute ride from the city, Versailles Palace is excellent for a day trip. If you’ve read a bit of French history you’re probably familiar with this palace. This was the center of the social life of the royalty, the magnificent palace where all the rich and important people lived a lavish life full of excess. And you can notice this in every little detail of the palace. Visit the Hall of Mirrors and the Royal Apartments to admire the exquisite architecture and uniqueness of all utilities and ornaments.
Don’t forget to visit the little village where Marie Antoinette went to relax. It’s a lovely recreation of what the last queen of France thought was a rustic village and where she went to do some gardening and escape the tight etiquette of the Palace.
Photo by Jean-Philippe Delberghe on Unsplash
Le Saint Clair
Even with such a good breakfast, you’ll want to eat something more filling after walking through the whole palace and gardens. Lucky you, there’s the perfect spot right there outside the palace. Le Saint Clair is a charming brasserie famous for their French cuisine and their cozy atmosphere. We highly suggest you try their steaks and seafood and don’t forget to ask for their excellent tiramisu for dessert.
Day 3: Montmartre and Eiffel Picnic
On Day 3, the final day of the Paris itinerary, we spend the day in the neighborhood of Montmartre and relax with a picnic near the Eiffel Tower, enjoying the perfect Parisian spirit while taking in the iconic landmark. It’s a day of art, culture, and relaxation!
Sacré-Coeur Basilica
After another great breakfast at a Parisian cafe, it’s your last day to spend in Paris so enjoy less crowded places like the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. This Roman Catholic church is part of the iconic view of the city. If you’re curious about its white domes, they’re made of calcium carbonate, which keeps them bright and white even with all the pollution. If you want to enjoy great views of the whole city you can climb the Bell Tower. There you can also admire one of the largest bells in the world, weighing an astounding 19 tons.
Photo by Valentin Lacoste on Unsplash
Montmartre Streets
After you visit the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, take a stroll through the Montmartre streets. On their cobblestone pathways, you’ll find a lively atmosphere and enjoy the artistic heritage of this bohemian district. If you love French film and paintings on these streets you might find the inspiration and locations, so look carefully around. Visit one of their historic cafes and peruse the little old shops to find some souvenirs for your friends and family. Take lots of photos and maybe buy some fresh baguette and cheese to make a picnic later.
Champs de Mars
Now is the time to take out that fresh baguette and extend a blanket to have the most Parisian picnic in the Champs de Mars. With the Eiffel Tower in the background and a good glass of wine, it’s the best way to end your stay in Paris. Take some time to relax, do as the French do, and enjoy good food in good company. Soon you’ll be back on the road, or maybe back home, but for now, you’re in Paris.
Is Paris Worth Visiting?
Yes, Paris is a beautiful city full of things to do and see. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and it shows. For centuries artists and intellectuals have gathered in the Parisian cafes to get inspired and share their insights. It’s also a great destination for couples, especially for anniversaries and honeymoons, but it’s also great for families and friends.
If you want to read more you can read our article about why Paris is worth visiting.
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