3 Days in Paris Itinerary: Welcome to the city of love, Paris! We’ve got an epic 3-day adventure lined up to squeeze every drop of magic out of this iconic City. From secret spots to legendary landmarks, we’re uncovering all the must-sees and hidden gems. Don’t forget to smash that subscribe button, ’cause we’re rolling out insane travel tips and itineraries your way, keeping your wanderlust fueled up. Let’s dive into these Parisian streets and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Best Time to Visit Paris
Paris is a beautiful city, no matter what time of the year, but different seasons offer different experiences.
So first, let’s look at the summer. The summer season, from June to September, is the busiest time in Paris. During these months, the prices of tourism-related businesses skyrocket due to high demand. Tickets and hotels still get sold out months in advance. However, summer in Paris is undeniably an incredible season. There’s very little chance of rain, and it offers the perfect time to take memorable pictures. If you are heading to Paris in the summer, there are plenty of things to do. There are many gardens in Paris that you can explore and look beautiful during these months, with Jardin des Tuileries and Luxembourg Gardens being just two of my favorites. The Tour de France runs during the summer months as well, and Disneyland Paris is a great place to explore in the summer, as long as you don’t mind queuing up for all of the rides.
Now, let’s look at Autumn or fall in Paris. The fall season in Paris is a magnificent time to visit and one of our favorites. The changing colors bring such a unique and fantastic atmosphere. Not to mention that it is a great time to sit in a charming cafe, have a coffee, and enjoy a freshly baked croissant. The temperature still remains relatively warm in September, so this is our favorite month to visit. But you should also bring layers because the temperature can fall throughout the season. This is also the wine harvest season in France, so you can take a trip out to a vineyard for a truly fantastic experience.
Now, let’s look at winter in Paris. Exploring Paris in the winter season can be cold and wet, like most of Europe, but don’t let that put you off. Firstly, the prices are much better at these times. Hotel prices go down, and even the Eurostar becomes a little bit more affordable. Also, the city comes alive with Christmas markets and makes the City of Lights even brighter later at night. There are fewer crowds on the street and at top attractions, meaning that you will not have to queue for very long to see most of the major sites.
Now, let’s look at Spring in Paris. Spring in Paris means the trees and flowers are blooming and showing off vibrant colors. This time in Paris, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, so you can enjoy full days out without worrying about too many layers. During the Spring season, the prices are also relatively reasonable due to the lower demand, and crowds are less. They do start to pick up as you get nearer to the summer months, but if you can book a trip in the springtime, we would highly recommend it. You can also head to one of the many Easter celebrations. These are celebrated in and around the religious sites like the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, and you can also book yourself a cycling tour through the beautiful Versailles. This is a unique way to enjoy the palace and its gardens.
So, to summarize, what is the best time to visit Paris? The best time for us is either the end of spring or the beginning of fall. During this time, there are noticeably fewer tourists. This means that fantastic restaurants don’t require long queues, and the same goes for when you’re visiting the top attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. Airfare and hotel prices are a little bit cheaper than the summer months, and if you are traveling from another city in Europe, you can find flights for as low as 40 euros per person. Finally, the temperature in Spring and fall in Paris is mostly pleasant, so you won’t get too hot when you are exploring the city, but you shouldn’t need a bulky jacket.
Day One: The Lou, Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe
Day one kicks off at none other than the Lou, yep, that gigantic breathtaking palace in Paris that once belonged to the Kings. Nestled in the first arrondissement, the Lou isn’t just a museum; it’s a journey through time, housing over 35,000 artworks that whisper tales from antiquity to the present. Prepare to get mind blown by world-renowned masterpieces that promise to steal your breath away.
Now, diving into Greek, Egyptian, and Oriental antiquities, mingling with sculptures, and getting lost in captivating paintings, it’s an enchanting maze you won’t want to leave and whether you’re in for a quick 2-hour peek or an all-day art marathon, there’s always a hidden gem around every corner. I’d say at least commit a solid 3 hours to catch the essentials, and yes, that includes hanging out with the enigmatic Mona Lisa. Plus, don’t miss out on the stunning ancient and Egyptian collections; it’s like stepping into a time machine. Here’s a cool tip: if you’re under 18, it’s totally free, and for the rest of us, it’s €17 for a ticket into this wonderland. Oh, and circle every first Sunday of the month; it’s everyone’s lucky day with free entry.
Now, after all that exploring, your stomach’s probably demanding some attention, right? Just a short stroll from the Lou, the Montorgueil district is calling. It’s a cozy spot to snag some delicious bites without burning a hole in your wallet.
Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Who doesn’t dream about visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower, right? I mean, it’s the Eiffel Tower. Now, pack your bags, grab your sneakers, because we’re going to explore every nook and cranny of this iconic masterpiece. First up, take a chill ride on the Metro and make a stop at Place du Trocadéro. Trust me, the view from there is like bam! The Iron Lady standing tall and magnificent will take your breath away at a whopping 325 meters. But hey, don’t just stand there. Let’s cross the Seine using the Pont de l’Alma, and voilà, you’re at the feet of this incredible tower.
And if Lady Luck is smiling at you today, let’s not just stare at it from below; let’s get up there. Yep, we’re climbing to the top. Imagine peering over the edge and getting a 360° clear view of the whole city from 276 meters up in the sky. Can you picture seeing the Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palace, and all the epic monuments from up there? Budget about 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours to really soak it all in. We’re talking about exploring every level of the tower. And hey, while you’re there, why not wander along to Mars? If the sun’s playing nice, a cozy picnic at the base of the tower could be just the cherry on top of a perfect day.
The Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. Wrapping up a rad afternoon, we’re hitting up a must-do while you’re hanging in Paris, cruising down the most epic street on the planet, the Champs-Élysées. Now, you want to carve out like 2 hours to soak it all in. But if you’re here to snag some swag at Louis Vuitton, the Disney Store, or maybe get glam at Sephora, you might want to hang around a bit longer. And if the clock’s still ticking, I’ve got a top tip for you: make tracks to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Just chilling at the end of The Avenue, trust me, the views are out of this world. Picture this: the Eiffel Tower, the whole Champs-Élysées stretching out beneath you. It’s a total Instagram paradise.
Day Two: Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Latin Quarter
Notre-Dame: The iconic Cathedral had a massive fire back in 2019 and is currently under repair until 2024, but don’t stress, it’s still a must-visit spot. Why? Because the stunning architecture of this Gothic beauty can still blow your mind. From the square in front, you can snap some cool pics, and honestly, the outdoor vibes are gorgeous. Oh, and guess what? You can snag an outdoor guided tour and learn all the juicy details from its epic construction in 1163. Uncover the story of what was lost in the fire and even check out what miraculously survived. And yes, exploring the Crypt is an option. Budget around €36 for this, totally worth it for a sneak peek into history.
Just a hop away, we’re going to explore the Sainte-Chapelle, nestled in the heart of the Palais de la Cité. This spot is a gem, those 15 meters high stained glass roofs absolutely dazzling, especially when the sun kisses them just right, lighting up scenes from the Old and New Testaments and for those who are into eerie and majestic spots, the Conciergerie is the place to be. A royal residence turned high-stakes prison during the French Revolution, this Gothic palace is not only stunning but also holds the ghostly memories of its past, including tales from when Marie Antoinette was held captive here.
The Latin Quarter: Now, you’ve got to check out Place Saint-Michel; trust me, it’s an absolute must-visit. Now, imagine chilling at a spot where the cool Rue Saint-André des Arts and Boulevard Saint-Michel meet. And while you’re soaking in those vibes, don’t forget to snap a pic with the stunning Saint-Michel Fountain. Yep, it’s a real beauty and one of the awesome monuments you’ll find in the district.
Ready for a little secret spot? Mark down Rue de la Huchette and Rue Saint-Michel on your map. Picture this: cobbled streets, pedestrian-friendly vibes, and a perfect spot to kick back on a terrace for a cheeky little break in an uber-charming setting. But hey, the fun doesn’t stop there. Next up, the Pantheon. Not just a final resting place for some pretty famous French folks like Victor Hugo and Marie Curie, it’s a place where you’ll be spoiled with breathtaking views of Paris from its iconic dome. Plus, you’ll get up close with some red frescoes and sculptures that will totally blow your mind. And for all you nature buffs out there, you’re going to love Jardin des Plantes, one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens, and it’s right here waiting for you to explore its lush variety of plants, trees, and flowers. And don’t forget to pop into those insta-worthy greenhouses.
If you’re into a bit of a wild side, there’s the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes, one of the world’s ancient zoos where you’ll meet around 150 species. It’s not just a zoo; it’s a place fighting against extinction and standing up for the animal kingdom.
A Dinner Cruise on the Seine: Get ready to feast your eyes on the twinkling lights of the iconic Eiffel Tower and the majestic Notre-Dame as we sail smoothly along the enchanting Seine River. And guess what? We’re doing all of this while munching on some scrumptious dinner aboard for just €59. Not only do you get to explore the sparkling beauty of Paris from a whole new perspective, but you also dive into a delicious meal experience that’ll make your taste buds dance. And don’t just watch the monuments go by, snap those pics and make those memories because, trust me, this is one night in Paris you’ll never want to forget.
Day Three: The Marais, Musée d’Orsay, and Montmartre
The Marais District: Today, we’re diving deep into the charming streets of the Marais district in Paris, walking through a district that’s not just stunning but also a treasure trove of hidden gems. First up, we’ve got the insanely gorgeous private mansions which, trust me, you’re going to want to snap a few pics of. And if you’re a museum buff, well, you’ve hit the jackpot. The district is home to some of Paris’s super cool museums. There’s one that takes you on a journey through the rich history of Paris. Oh, and guess what? It used to be the fancy mansion of Madame de Sévigné. For a sparkle of art in your trip, there’s the Picasso Museum and for the literature lovers, the Maison de Victor Hugo. Yep, that’s right, you get to explore where the legend himself lived.
As you stroll through the historic heart of the district, you’ll stumble upon the epic Saint-Jacques Tower. Not only is it a cool spot where scientist Blaise Pascal did his wild experiments, but it’s also a prime location for some killer Paris views. Oh, and right around the corner, the Paris City Hall, rocking a breathtaking Renaissance-style façade that you absolutely cannot miss. Feel the pulse of the city as you step into the Place de la Bastille, where the Opera Bastille stands tall, and the enchanting Port de l’Arsenal is ready to take your breath away.
Ready to lighten those wallets? Dive into the sea of trendy boutiques on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois and Rue du Temple and get ready to shop till you drop. Need a sweet break? Make a pit stop at Rue des Rosiers, where bakeries serve up mouthwatering Oriental pastries. And for a dash of global flavor, head to Marché des Enfants Rouges in Le Marais. Imagine snacking through one of the oldest markets in Paris with goodies from around the globe.
Now, if you’ve been dreaming of the Palace of Versailles, hold that thought. Even though it’s a must-visit, exploring the castle and its beautiful parks and gardens is a good half-day adventure. Plus, consider the travel time; it’s practically a whole day trip. So, if you’re in Paris for a longer stay, definitely swing by the Musée d’Orsay. This place isn’t just a museum; it’s a treasure trove of some of the coolest paintings you’ll ever lay eyes on. We’re talking walls lined with works of legends like Renoir, Van Gogh, and Gauguin. And don’t even get me started on the world-famous piece “Luncheon on the Grass” by Edouard Manet. It’s a must-see. This place is bubbling with creativity and colors that’ll make your Instagram pop. You might think you need a whole day in this artsy paradise, but honestly, just 2 hours will let you soak in all the major sights. Trust me; if you’ve got a soft spot for amazing art, the Musée d’Orsay is going to blow your mind.
Montmartre: We’re diving into the heart of Paris, the enchanting Montmartre. This spot is not just a hill in the city; it’s a vibe. It’s where art and history collide. First up, we’ll sneak a peek at the famous Bateau-Lavoir; yep, that’s Picasso’s old hangout. Imagine all the cool stuff that was created right there. And don’t forget to say hi to the vineyards of Montmartre. Yep, you heard it right, vineyards right here in Paris.
Now, brace your legs because we’re about to tackle the iconic Butte Montmartre. But hey, the climb’s worth it because the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is waiting for us at the top, shining white and bright against the Parisian sky. An insta spot you can’t miss. Too tired for stairs? No problem. The Montmartre funicular’s got your back. Just swipe your Metro ticket, and up you go. Next stop, Place du Tertre, where every nook and cranny is bursting with creativity and color thanks to the artists who’ve made this square their canvas. Ever dreamt of having your portrait done? This is the spot. Did you know that legends like Picasso, Renoir, Monet, and Van Gogh used to chill here too? How cool is that? And of course, don’t forget to soak in the vibrant nightlife.
End your day with delicious French cuisine in a cozy local restaurant. Then maybe a show at a cabaret or check out a performance hall in Montmartre. Before we wrap up our day, remember there’s always more to explore in the Montmartre: the Musée de Montmartre, the super cool Marché Saint-Pierre, huge fabric market alert, and of course, the iconic Moulin Rouge.
Also Read: A Perfect One Day Venice Itinerary
That wraps up our whirlwind 3 days exploring the magic and mystery of Paris. From the mesmerizing lights of the Eiffel Tower to the vibrant artsy vibes of Montmartre, we’ve danced through the streets, soaked in the culture, and yes, devoured way too many croissants. If you love zooming through Paris with us, smash that like button, and don’t forget to subscribe for more exciting journeys around our beautiful planet.
Where to Stay in Paris
we are going to share with you the three neighborhoods that tourists should consider staying in while visiting Paris, France. While many sources may list numerous neighborhoods, we’ll focus on the ones that we believe are essential for an enjoyable stay.
1. Saint Germain: Your Central Base for Paris Exploration
Saint Germain is a strong recommendation for your first trip to Paris. It’s in close proximity to major tourist attractions, including the Seine River, Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. Biking along the Seine to visit the Eiffel Tower is convenient from here. The neighborhood is well-connected by public transportation, serving as a major subway hub. Staying in Saint Germain provides a central and accessible base, making it ideal for first-time visitors. It’s a safe and comfortable area, perfect for solo travelers with plenty of fellow tourists.
2. Montmartre: A Hipster Haven with Local Vibes
Montmartre, historically on the outskirts of Paris, has transformed into a hipster and artistic enclave. While a bit hilly and requiring some stair climbing, it offers a more local vibe. The area is known for landmarks like Sacré-Cœur and the iconic Maison Rose. Keep in mind that Montmartre is not as central with regards to public transportation, requiring a few connections. It provides a local feel with excellent food options, making it a great choice for those seeking a different Parisian experience. However, for first-time visitors with a packed tourist itinerary, St Germain may be more convenient.
3. Le Marais: A Quaint and Upscale Wanderer’s Paradise
Our favorite neighborhood in Paris, Le Marais, is perfect for those who enjoy aimless wandering, shopping, and dining. While a bit more expensive, the upscale atmosphere adds to its charm. Le Marais is known for its cute shops, excellent food, and a quaint ambiance. It’s a quieter neighborhood where tourists coexist with locals. While the nightlife might not be as vibrant as in other areas, the overall experience is worth it. Le Marais is an easy neighborhood to explore on foot, providing a delightful escape for those looking beyond the typical tourist spots.
Conclusion: Prime Locations for Tourists in Paris
These three neighborhoods – Saint Germain, Montmartre, and Le Marais – stand out as prime locations for tourists in Paris. Each offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences. While Saint Germain provides a central and bustling atmosphere, Montmartre offers a more artistic and local feel. Le Marais, our personal favorite, combines upscale charm with a relaxed vibe, perfect for aimless exploration. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning a return trip, these neighborhoods are our top recommendations for an unforgettable stay in the City of Light.
Important Tips For your 3 Days in Paris Itinerary
Alright, 25 tips – let’s see how fast we can do this! And don’t worry; you’re gonna want to hold on here for the magic word that’s gonna change your entire experience. Also, do you tip in France, and if so, how?
Don’t stay near the Eiffel Tower. This is probably the most controversial take I’ve got on here, but like, it’s not in the middle of town, despite what movies might make you think. It’s really far away from everything that you’re probably going to want to see and do, and it’s not close to very much in the way of public transportation either. So, a very lovely neighborhood, quiet, wonderful to walk around in, but don’t stay near the Eiffel Tower – stay central, stay close to Notre Dame. Draw a circle around Notre Dame; stay close to Notre Dame; that’ll be the way to go.
If you’re wondering about power adapters, you’re looking at a Type C, E, or F adapter. It’s the two prongs here that are compatible with grounding, as a whole, or grounding, as these slots on the sides. You’re also able to plug your USB devices directly into a wall here – whatever power adapter you’ve got that you already plug your USB into is going to adapt to this just fine. Your laptop, your cell phone, whatever it is, it’s going to charge; it’s going to be great. However, if you’re looking to use a beard trimmer or something like that, you probably will blow a fuse. So, I wouldn’t use one of those.
If you need to get a SIM card while you’re in France for like a week or two, pop into one of these tobacco stores; easiest way to do it. There are a few other ways to do it; they’re in my guide, but this one’s pretty quick and simple. Also, the tips about tipping in France are still coming. Those green plus signs, those are pharmacy signs. If you’re from California, Washington, Colorado, or a lot of the United States, it’s not a dispensary, only illegal drugs there – here, the legal drugs that are legal here, of course. Even though they’re legal, painkillers like ibuprofen are behind the counter. So, if you want to buy something like ibuprofen, you’re not going to find it on this side of the counter. Make sure to ask the pharmacist.
If you need a 24-hour pharmacy, there’s one at Place de la Republique and another one on the Champs-Élysées. There are a ton of them around town; there’s probably a few others, but those are two of the more central, easiest to find. It’s right by the Arc de Triomphe, and you can’t miss it for all the gaudy lights. Like, this is the tamest it gets, and the other side – well, you’ve seen the other side. It’s kind of silly.
I was going to put all of the emergency numbers on the screen, but it gets kind of confusing. So, all you need to remember is 112; that’s the European standard. It’s like 911; it’ll get you to somebody who’ll get you where you need to go. There are specific numbers; I’ll put them on the screen in case you need them – you know, 15, 17, numbers like that. But 112 if you’re having a medical emergency. Don’t leave a comment below about it; I don’t want to hear about it here. Go call that number.
If you need a medical appointment of some sort that’s not an emergency, use Doctolib. It’s an amazing app that’ll get you where you need to go. I’m not going to say that it’s the best coffee in Paris; it’s a little bit pricey, but it does have the best view in Paris for a coffee. Shakespeare and Company – you should definitely come by here, grab a coffee, and check out the construction progress on Notre Dame.
A couple of pointers on taxis just to make sure that you don’t get screwed. There’s a flat rate back from the airport if you’re not going to take the RER into town; you want to take a taxi flat rate. Don’t go with one of the guys that are standing around in the terminal being like, “Taxi, taxi, no, no.” Go to the official taxi stand, pay the flat rate in the 55 euro range – I mean, it depends on which side of the city you’re going to, but that’s a starter. Secondly, make sure that they take cards before you get in at the airport; that’s different. But here, if you’re going to a taxi stand like this and you don’t have cash, make sure that they have a card reader because some of them actually don’t. Finally, make sure they have a functioning meter. If you get in and there’s no meter, nothing running on the dashboard, that could be a scam – get out. Don’t do that; yeah, don’t do that one.
Take a lot of photos – this is a bonus for you. Take some nice little videos and photos as you go by monuments and so forth. It’s a fun opportunity to have the city moving around you that you don’t always get as quickly when you’re walking, and it’s not safe when you’re biking. Oh, also, now that you know about the flat rate, you can check against Uber when you’re looking to get a ride and see if the deals are good because Uber is sometimes super overpriced. But if you know going to the airport and you know what that flat rate is – I’m not going to say what it is on camera right now because it might change by the time you’re seeing this – then you can check it against Uber and then you know, are you getting screwed? Are you getting a deal? Good, not a scam. Is it a scam? I don’t think it’s a scam. What are scams?
Do you want to get a unique view of Sacramento without all the crowds and maybe in a nice, you know, parky environment? Go around back; there’s a wonderful park back here that you can chill and enjoy a view of Sacramento that’s a little bit more unique than what you normally see. And, you know, get that photo that your friends will all be like, “Where? How did you get the – I was in Paris; I didn’t see that.”
Moving on, if you’re going to be traveling by metro while you’re here, one of the apps that you’re going to want to get is the IDF Mobilities app. If you’re on Apple, you’ll be able to top up your Navigo and then put it on your phone, which you can then use as your navigator – super handy to have as a backup or is my primary now. If you’re on Android, you can actually buy your tickets on your phone, which is what I do. The Carné Dies or the packet of 10 that you used to be able to buy in paper tickets – you can no longer buy in paper tickets, but if you have an Android phone, you should be able to buy them here and then tap and go as you go. If you’re not going to be using the metro a ton, then pay as you go – it’s definitely cheaper; it’s the way to go.
Speaking of paper tickets, paper tickets are not transferable between buses and metros, but your Navigo is. So, not all metro doors are automatic; some have buttons, and others have hooks like this.
We’re getting to the whole magic word thing here shortly; don’t you worry. Make sure to use the toilet before you leave any given restaurant because, uh, they’re not very easy to come across, and public toilets often look like this.
And it’s a toilet bonus if you can’t find it; it’s probably downstairs – you can ask, but, you know, check the stairs. American, you can’t turn right on red anywhere in Europe, but definitely not in France. The one exception to this is if you’re on a bike, and you see one of these signs that says you can turn right on red. Otherwise, if you’re in a car, don’t turn right on it; it’s not going to go well. Don’t turn right on red, please. Also, quick hot tip: this light is for you here; don’t look across the street. The light across the street – not for you. That’s a bonus; I’m giving away a lot of bonuses in this video already. Of course, if you find yourself in an intersection like this and you’re not sure whether or not, let’s say, you should turn left safely because you can’t tell if the other side of traffic is coming or going, that red cross in the background – that little red plus sign is basically the stoplight that they’re facing bleeding through to you. So, you can tell, “Hey, those guys have a red light; I am currently safe to go turn left across the street,” whatever it is you need to know – now you know it.
Tipping in France isn’t obligatory; however, it’s always considered good form and rather nice to leave one or two euros in case of good service. American again – still American. Well, you can’t tip by card very easily here; you need to tell them before they ring you up so they add it to your bill. There’s not going to be a spot to sign for it after, so make sure to let them know. Be sure to let them know, but, uh, it’s better to leave cash because otherwise, it may not make it to its intended target.
The magic word that I’ve been referring to this entire time that’s going to change your trip is “bonjour.” It sounds so simple and so straightforward and so incredibly obvious; we’d be surprised how many people forget just to say “bonjour” when they enter any restaurant establishment, whatever it is. It is the magic word; it’ll change your entire experience. It’s just polite; it’s expected, and in France, formalities come first – it’s a respect culture, not so much a pleasantries culture. Pleasantries come after the respect, and “bonjour” is the magic word that will start you off in a very respectful way.
All right, that’s 25 tips in minutes. Thanks for reading I hope you like our article. Please don’t follow to subscribe to stay updated with our latest posts.