Paris in 2 Days or 3 Days: Must see attractions, itineraries

Paris in 2 days

Two days may seem like a short time to experience everything Paris has to offer, but with the right itinerary, you can still embrace the magic of the “City of Light.” Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, this guide will help you make the most of your 48 hours in the French capital. From iconic landmarks to charming neighborhoods, here’s how to savor every moment in Paris.

We recommend devoting your first day to must-see highlights like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, while the second day takes you through vibrant areas like Le Marais and Montmartre. This itinerary balances sightseeing with time to soak up the city’s atmosphere.

What to do in Paris in 2 days

Must-see attractions:

• Climb the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views of the city.
• Admire the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro and capture the perfect photo.
• Visit the Louvre Museum, one of the greatest museums in the world.
• Stroll along the Seine and explore the beautiful Île de la Cité.
• Experience a unique boat tour on the Seine for a different perspective of Paris.
• Explore the Orsay Museum, home to an incredible collection of European paintings.
• Shop in the trendy Marais district for fashionable finds.
• Visit the Centre Pompidou to appreciate its diverse collection of contemporary art.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Marché des Enfants Rouges.
• Wander around Montmartre and visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
• End the evening in a cozy Montmartre pub, restaurant, or cabaret for entertainment.

2-Day Itinerary for Paris

Day 1: Eiffel Tower, Seine River, and Louvre (or Orsay)

Start your day by visiting the Eiffel Tower, one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. Arriving via Trocadéro, you’ll be greeted by stunning views from the esplanade, a perfect spot for those essential photos. If you’d like, you can also head up the tower for a spectacular panoramic view.

To skip the long lines (which can take over two hours), book a fast-track ticket that includes both a guided tour and a cruise on the Seine.

Next, take a boat trip on the Seine. Gliding along the Seine River is a relaxing way to admire some of Paris’ most beautiful buildings, like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. Several companies offer one-hour cruises, giving you a break from walking while still enjoying the sights.

Afterward, head to Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece from the 12th century. While the interior is no longer open to visitors, you can still admire its impressive architecture from the outside and also visit nearby landmarks like Sainte-Chapelle.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Louvre, one of the world’s most renowned museums. If you have time, don’t miss its treasures like the Mona Lisa or its extensive Egyptian collection.

If art is your passion, the Orsay Museum on the opposite side of the river is a must-see, especially for lovers of Impressionism.

Day 2: The Marais, Pompidou, and Montmartre

Start your morning in Le Marais, one of the trendiest areas of Paris. It’s a great place for brunch, with plenty of cozy cafés, trendy boutiques, and art galleries. Be sure to visit the Picasso Museum or Musée Carnavalet, which tells the history of Paris.

Next, head to Centre Pompidou, home to one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world. It opens at 11:00 am, so no need to rush. If you’re traveling with kids, another option is the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie at La Villette.

In the afternoon, explore the Montmartre district, famous for its bohemian atmosphere and as the former home of artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. Wander through its picturesque streets, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy the sweeping views of Paris from the hilltop.

Before leaving Montmartre, check out some of its hidden gems, such as Le Bateau-Lavoir (Picasso’s old studio) and Le Moulin de la Galette. To end your trip on a high note, enjoy a meal at one of the district’s many charming restaurants or attend a show at a local cabaret.

Budget-Friendly Activities in Paris

Here are some tips to enjoy Paris on a budget:

• Rent a bike: You can explore the city by bike for as little as 1 euro for 24 hours.
• Take a bus tour: Some public buses, like lines 27 and 85, offer scenic routes through the city for the price of a metro ticket.
• Visit free museums: Many of Paris’ city museums are free to enter year-round.
• Walk through Paris’ neighborhoods: Simply strolling through different areas of the city is an experience in itself.
• Stay in the suburbs: Hotels on the outskirts of Paris are often cheaper and well-connected by public transport (try Boulogne, Montreuil, Vincennes, etc.).

Exploring Paris in two days is a challenge, but with this itinerary, you’ll get a taste of the city’s charm and beauty. Enjoy your stay in the City of Light!

Paris in 3 Days

Planning a trip to Paris for the first time? Here’s a 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit, whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends. Explore the best of Paris by walking, taking the metro, or cycling.

Must see attractions for 3 days in Paris

• Ascend to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city.
• Explore the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous masterpieces.
• Discover the beauty of Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, and the charming islands of the Seine.
• Enjoy a meal or a leisurely stroll along the Seine, taking in the scenic river views. See top dinner cruises in Paris
• Be amazed by the incredible European art collection at the Musée d’Orsay, featuring works by renowned masters.
• Visit the historic Les Invalides and the elegant Rodin Museum, filled with beautiful sculptures.
• Stroll down the iconic Champs-Élysées and climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe to watch the sunset over Paris.
• Wander through Montmartre’s picturesque streets and visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking views of the city.
• Shop and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the trendy Marais district, known for its boutiques and lively cafés.

Day 1: Classic Paris

Morning: Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum

• Eiffel Tower: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Arrive at Trocadéro for a stunning view, then cross the Seine to the tower. Book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long queues.
• Louvre Museum: Afterward, head to the Louvre to marvel at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Liberty Leading the People. Spend about 3 hours exploring the museum, and consider a Seine river cruise for a scenic lunch option.

Afternoon: Notre-Dame and Latin Quarter

• Notre-Dame de Paris: Visit this Gothic masterpiece. Climb the North Tower for a close-up view of the gargoyles. Note: Notre-Dame’s renovation is complete. the Cathedral will reopen on Dec. 2024.
• Latin Quarter: Wander around this lively area. Explore Place Saint-Michel, Rue Mouffetard, and the Jardin des Plantes. Consider a visit to the Pantheon or Luxembourg Gardens if time allows.

Evening: Seine River Cruise

• Seine River Cruise: Enjoy a dinner or boat tour on the Seine to see Parisian landmarks illuminated at night. Book your cruise in advance. Read more about Seine River cruises in Paris

Day 2: Art and Shopping

Morning: Musée d’Orsay

• Musée d’Orsay: Discover Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Gauguin, Van Gogh, Renoir, Monet Cézanne… the collection is impressive. Allocate about 2 hours for this visit.

Afternoon: Champs-Élysées and Montmartre

• Champs-Élysées: Stroll along this famous avenue, cross the Alexandre III Bridge, and visit the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views.
• Montmartre: Explore this artistic district. Visit Sacré-Cœur for breathtaking views, and stroll through Place du Tertre. Enjoy dinner in one of Montmartre’s lively restaurants or bars.

Day 3: Modern Art and Local Charm

Morning: Centre Pompidou

• Centre Pompidou: Visit this modern art museum known for its unique architecture and extensive collection. Spend a couple of hours here.

Afternoon: Marais District

• Marais: Wander through this historic neighborhood. Check out the Carnavalet Museum, Picasso Museum, and explore trendy boutiques. Enjoy lunch at the Marché des Enfants Rouges or a nearby café.

Evening: Final Moments in Paris

• Evening Options: As your trip draws to a close, savor your last evening in a cozy café, or enjoy a final dinner in the heart of the Marais. Reflect on the unforgettable memories you’ve made in the City of Light, knowing that its charm will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.