Paris, or the city of lights as they call it, is one of the most romantic places on earth. Its cobblestoned, narrow streets, cute sidewalks along the Seine, beautiful bridges, and, most importantly, the Eiffel Tower transport you to another world. Summers in Paris are especially jolly, with people dancing along the riverside, streets filled with little souvenir shops, and cozy cafes flooded with couples and families binging on Italian delicacies. Once you are in Paris, you are overwhelmed with an irresistible urge to see everything, taste everything, and just soak in the vibe of the city.
Here, we bring you a meticulously crafted 3-day itinerary for Paris so that you can make the most of your in the most romantic city in the world.
Selecting the Base
To maximize the ease of exploring Paris's timeless attractions, consider staying in districts with excellent transportation connectivity.
- Opt for the central 1st, 2nd, or 3rd arrondissements for proximity to iconic landmarks like the Louvre and Notre Dame.
- The 9th arrondissement, near Paris Opera, is situated on the right bank of the River Seine and is known for its central location and vibrant atmosphere.
- Alternatively, the 7th arrondissement offers a strategic base near the Eiffel Tower.
- For vibrant nightlife and artistic charm, Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement beckons.
Whichever district you choose, Paris's efficient metro system ensures seamless access to every corner of the city, allowing you to unlock the treasures of this enchanting metropolis effortlessly.
3-day Itinerary for Paris
To truly savor the essence of Paris, a city that seamlessly blends history, art, and romance, allocating three days is optimal. This timeframe allows you to explore iconic landmarks coupled with strolls along the Seine and through charming neighborhoods. Do not forget to indulge in cafe sessions, savoring delectable pastries, and discovering hidden gems in districts like Montmartre.
Let’s dive into the itinerary to make the most of your Paris trip.
Day 1: Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, Palais Garnier, and Champs-Élysées
Eiffel Tower: Built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, The Eiffel Tower offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks and has become a timeless emblem of romance and architectural prowess.
Champ de Mars: Champ de Mars, the vast green space surrounding the Eiffel Tower, serves as a picturesque venue for gatherings and events. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and marvel at the majestic structure against the Parisian skyline.
Palais Garnier: Palais Garnier, a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, is home to the Paris Opera. It is known for its opulent interiors, adorned with intricate details.
Champs-Élysées: The Champs-Élysées, one of the world's most famous avenues, exudes elegance with its tree-lined promenade, theaters, cafes, and luxury boutiques. It culminates at the Arc de Triomphe, forming a grand avenue that has witnessed historic events and celebrations.
- Start our first day by hopping early on the metro to the Ecole Militaire station, your gateway through the Champ de Mars towards the Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, take a short stroll from the metro station to Rue Cler to buy some brunch supplies and relish a picnic with the Iron Lady as your enchanting backdrop.
- Catch Line 6 from Trocadero metro station to take an exit at Chaussee d’Antin La Fayette metro station and head towards Palais Garnier.
- Take line 9 from Chaussee d’Antin La Fayette metro station to Franklin D Roosevelt metro station, where a short walk would take you to the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe.
Tip: If you want to go up the Eiffel Tower to the 3rd floor, reserve your tickets in Advance. You can book your tickets up to 60 days in advance. Dont get scammed by “skip the line” vendors.
Day 2: The Louvre, Palais Royal Gardens, Galerie Vivienne, Galerie Vero Dodat, Sacré-Cœur, and Montmartre
The Louvre: The Louvre, a former royal palace turned world-renowned museum, houses an extensive collection of art spanning centuries. From the Mona Lisa to the Venus de Milo, it is a cultural treasure trove attracting several art enthusiasts.
Palais Royal Gardens: Nestled beside the Palais Royal near The louvre, the Palais Royal Gardens offer a tranquil escape in the heart of Paris. Visitors can wander through manicured lawns, admire sculptures, and find solace in this peaceful oasis.
Galerie Vivienne/Galerie Vero Dodat: Galerie Vivienne and Galerie Vero Dodat are charming covered passages that harken back to Paris's 19th-century elegance. Lined with shops and cafes, these arcades provide a delightful and nostalgic shopping experience.
Sacré-Cœur: Perched atop Montmartre, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers breathtaking views of Paris. This white-domed basilica, with its Romano-Byzantine architecture, is both a spiritual haven and a cultural landmark.
Montmartre: Montmartre, a bohemian neighborhood, captivates with its arrow streets, artists' studios, and a lively atmosphere. It has been a hub for creativity, attracting writers, painters, and musicians throughout history.
- Start with an early morning rendezvous at the Louvre, the world's largest art museum and a bastion of artistic treasures.
- Saunter through the gardens of the Palais Royal for a serene interlude, just a few minutes away.
- Take a 3-minute walk towards the Galerie Vivienne and then a 500-meter walk to Galerie Vero Dodat.
- Take metro line 1 from Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre metro station and change to line 4 at Charles de Gaulle – Étoile metro station. Get off at Anvers metro station, your gateway to the picturesque district of Montmartre. Taking a funicular, ascend to the Sacré-Cœur for panoramic views, and cap off your day in this bohemian haven.
Tip: Choose Porte des lions as an entrance into the Louvre to ditch the crowds, only if you have pre-booked your ticket. Prioritize must-see works of art to save time. Discover the allure of Place de Valois, a locale where the fictitious “Emily in Paris” once plied her trade, your way from Galerie Vivienne to Galerie Vero Dodat.
Day 3: Le Marais, Notre Dame de Paris, Sainte-Chapelle, Seine Cruise, Pont des Arts, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Tour Montparnasse
Le Marais: Le Marais, with its medieval streets and historic architecture, is a vibrant district blending the old and the new. It's known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and a rich Jewish heritage.
Notre Dame de Paris: Notre Dame de Paris, a Gothic masterpiece, is a cathedral that has stood as a symbol of French religious and architectural heritage for centuries.
Sainte-Chapelle: Sainte-Chapelle, located within the medieval Palais de la Cité, is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
Seine Cruise: A Seine Cruise provides a romantic and leisurely way to explore Paris, passing under iconic bridges and alongside landmarks.
Pont des Arts: The Pont des Arts, adorned with love locks left by couples, is a pedestrian bridge spanning the Seine River. It's a romantic spot with panoramic views of the city.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a historic Left Bank neighborhood, is synonymous with intellectual and artistic life. It has been a gathering place for writers, philosophers, and artists, with its cafes and bookshops contributing to its bohemian charm.
Tour Montparnasse: The Tour Montparnasse, a skyscraper in the Montparnasse district, stands as the tallest building in Paris. Its observation deck provides stunning 360-degree views of the city.
- Start your journey by hopping on the metro to Arts et Métiers station, a gateway to the enchanting district of Le Marais.
- A short stroll leads you to the awe-inspiring Notre Dame de Paris, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
- Just moments away lies the jewel-like Sainte-Chapelle, where the vibrant hues of its stained glass windows create an ever-changing kaleidoscope on the second level.
- Take a 1-hour Seine cruise from Vedettes du Pont Neuf, offering a unique perspective of the city along the Seine.
- Post-cruise, traverse the iconic Pont des Arts to enter the labyrinthine streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a literary and artistic haven.
- Catch the metro from Saint-Germain-des-Prés to Montparnasse - Bienvenüe metro station on Line 4. Choose any of the towers at Tour Montparnasse to witness the sun setting over the city, casting a golden glow on your final day in the City of Lights.
Tip: Prebook your tickets for the cruise to avoid last-minute hassles.
Best Time to Visit Paris
The best time to visit Paris is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is adorned with blooming flowers or colorful autumn foliage. During these seasons, outdoor attractions come to life, and the ambiance is delightful. Fall sees fewer tourists, making it an excellent time for a more intimate experience. Summer (July to August) offers warm temperatures but can be crowded. Winter (December to February) is quieter, with festive decorations, but temperatures are colder. Consider your preferences, balancing weather, crowds, and specific events, to make the most of your visit to the City of Lights.
Concluding our whirlwind escapade in Paris, you've uncovered the city's timeless treasures, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the historic streets of Le Marais. Each day unfolded like a chapter of a love story, with art, history, and culinary delights blending seamlessly. The sun's golden descent over Montparnasse paints a perfect farewell scene, leaving indelible memories and a lingering desire for more in the City of Lights.