Three Days in Paris: A Quick Guide

Paris, the City of Light, is a vast and intricate metropolis that can't be fully explored in just three days. As Honoré de Balzac once said, "Paris is an ocean," and even a detailed map like the Plan de Paris only scratches the surface.

With over 150 museums, historic churches, and 20 neighborhoods known as "arrondissements," Paris is rich in culture. This guide will help you see the highlights efficiently, with a focus on walking tours and strategic meal stops.

Traveler Tips: Always check museum and monument opening hours in advance, as many are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays. Consider purchasing a 4-day Paris Museum Pass for free access to over 50 museums and monuments, and a Paris Visit pass for the Métro.

On This Page:

• Day 1 Paris Itinerary
• Day 2 Paris Itinerary
• Day 3 Paris Itinerary

Day 1 Paris Itinerary

Start your day at Rue Mouffetard, Paris's oldest street, bustling with market life from 9am. Nearby, the Place Monge hosts a traditional farmers market on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Visit the Panthéon, resting place of France's notable citizens, and enjoy panoramic views from its dome. Then, wander through the Jardin du Luxembourg and explore the 6th arrondissement, including the historic Eglise Saint-Sulpice.

Stroll down Rue Bonaparte, lined with exquisite pastry shops and boutiques, and continue to the quaint Rue du Cherche-Midi. Experience the legendary café scene on Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Près at either Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots.

Visit the ancient Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Musée de Cluny in the Latin Quarter. Discover the narrow Rue du Chat-qui-Pêche and the stunning Sainte-Chapelle on the Île de la Cité.

End your day in the medieval quarter of Le Marais, with its beautiful squares like Place des Vosges, and take a Batobus cruise to the Eiffel Tower.

Guided tours in Paris

Day 2 Paris Itinerary

Begin at the elegant Jardin du Palais-Royal, surrounded by galleries and cultural attractions. Explore the contemporary Colonnes de Buren before heading to the Musée du Louvre to see world-renowned artworks.

After the Louvre, cross the Seine to the Musée d'Orsay for an Impressionist feast. Then, return to the Jardin des Tuileries and visit the Musée de l'Orangerie to view Monet's Water Lilies.

Walk through the Place de la Concorde and the Jardins des Champs-Élysées, home to museums and restaurants. End your day with a stroll down the iconic Champs-Élysées.

Day 3 Paris Itinerary

On your final day, explore the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre, including the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the bustling Place du Tertre. Visit the Musée de Montmartre and the nearby vineyard, Clos Montmartre.

Descend to the Opéra Garnier for a dose of grandeur, then shop at the famous department stores Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Finish your Parisian adventure with a visit to the modern La Défense district or a relaxing evening cruise on the Seine.

Where to Eat: Choose from a variety of recommended restaurants near each attraction, such as Mademoiselle Angelina near the Jardin du Luxembourg or Brasserie Lipp on Boulevard Saint-Germain. For dinner, consider dining at the Eiffel Tower or in the 7th arrondissement.

Where to Stay: The 5th and 6th arrondissements offer a local Parisian experience with charming hotels, or stay near the Eiffel Tower for a different perspective.

Luxury Hotels: Consider the Hôtel Récamier or the Hôtel Relais Saint-Germain for a luxurious stay.

Mid-Range Hotels: The Hôtel des Grandes Écoles offers classic French charm.

Budget Hotels: The Hôtel Perreyve is a great value near the Luxembourg Gardens.