3 Days in Paris: The Ultimate Paris Itinerary

Paris is often called “The City of Light,” and it’s easy to see why. This city captures the imagination with its romantic streets, iconic landmarks, and rich history. When we planned our trip, we wanted to experience as much of Paris as possible, from its world-famous monuments to its hidden gems and culinary delights. Here’s a breakdown of what we did, what we recommend, and how you can make the most of your time in this enchanting city.

But Paris isn’t just about its tourist attractions. It’s a city that feels alive, with something to discover around every corner. The street musician playing the accordion, the aroma of freshly baked baguettes wafting from a local boulangerie, or a quiet moment spent watching the Seine flow under its historic bridges, Paris has a way of weaving magic into the mundane. Each moment felt like part of a story we didn’t want to end, and we hope this guide helps you create your own unforgettable Parisian travel.

Starting with the Eiffel Tower We left our hotel early at 8 a.m. to beat the crowds at the Eiffel Tower, which opens at 9 a.m. After a short metro ride to the Champ de Mars area, we were ready to take on this iconic landmark. The experience of ascending the Eiffel Tower was unforgettable. We opted for the glass elevators, though the adventurous might prefer the stairs to the second level. It took us about 1.5 hours to fully enjoy the views from the top, which offered an unparalleled panoramic view of the city—especially stunning if you catch it at sunset.

What to Do: If you’re short on time, purchase your tickets online to skip the lines. The Champ de Mars park at the base is perfect for a picnic or a photo session.

Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in the evening, plan for about 2 hours and enjoy the hourly light show that starts at dusk.

Next Stop: The Louvre Museum From the Eiffel Tower, we took a scenic 15-minute Uber ride to the Louvre Museum. Plan to spend at least 3 hours here, especially if you love art. The Louvre houses over 35,000 works of art, but we prioritized the highlights: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Walking through the galleries felt like stepping back in time, surrounded by incredible art and history.

What to Do: If you’re short on time, consider a guided tour to hit the highlights. For a more intimate experience, visit one of their evening openings.

Travel Tip: The glass pyramid entrance is stunning at night. Plan your visit to catch both daytime and evening views.

Read here for a deeper exploration of Paris’s architectural and artistic heritage. For an insightful journey through the city’s rich history and cultural significance, visit here.

Breakfast in Montmartre We began our day in Montmartre, known for its artistic charm. A quick metro ride brought us to this bohemian neighborhood by 9 a.m. After a light breakfast of croissants and coffee at a charming café, we explored the cobbled streets leading to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The view from the top of the basilica is worth the climb, offering sweeping vistas of Paris. Don’t miss Place du Tertre, where local artists display their work. It’s a great spot for unique souvenirs or a quick portrait.

Lunch at L’As du Fallafel For lunch, we headed to the Marais district to try the famous L’As du Fallafel. Known for serving some of the best falafels in Paris, the queue was worth it. We spent about 30 minutes in line before diving into a delicious pita filled with crispy falafels, fresh vegetables, and tahini. If you’re not a fan of falafel, they also serve shawarmas and other Middle Eastern delights.

Afternoon Stroll Along the Seine After lunch, we enjoyed a leisurely walk along the Seine River. We took a 1-hour river cruise that offered a unique perspective of Paris’ landmarks, including Notre Dame and the Musée d’Orsay. By sunset, the city lights reflected on the water, creating a magical atmosphere. A Seine cruise is a must-do. Book an evening cruise for a romantic ambiance or a daytime one for better photo opportunities.

For a comprehensive guide to Parisian cuisine, from lavish to budget-friendly delights, click here. 

Discovering the Latin Quarter, We started our day in the Latin Quarter, one of Paris’ oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods. The area is brimming with history, from the Sorbonne University to the narrow medieval streets lined with bookstores and quaint cafés. We spent about 2 hours exploring and even found a lovely spot to enjoy crepes for breakfast. Also, visit the Shakespeare and Company bookstore and the nearby Saint-Michel Fountain.

Lunch at Le Comptoir du Relais For lunch, we treated ourselves to a more upscale dining experience at Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The duck confit was tender and flavorful, and the Art Deco ambiance added to the charm. Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant is quite popular.

Evening at Montparnasse Tower To wrap up our trip, we headed to Montparnasse Tower. The observation deck offers one of the best views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower. Arriving around 6 p.m., we spent about an hour enjoying the panoramic views and taking photos. This lesser-known spot is perfect for avoiding crowds while still soaking in the city’s beauty.

What to Do: Time your visit for sunset to see the city transition from day to night.

https://maycausewanderlust.com/paris-off-the-beaten-path/

To discover more hidden gems and unique experiences in Paris beyond the apparent landmarks, click here. 

1. Transportation: Purchase a Paris Metro Pass for unlimited travel on buses, trains, and the metro. It’s an economical choice, saving both money and time. With a user-friendly system and frequent stops near major attractions, navigating Paris becomes seamless and stress-free.
2. Accommodations: Choose to stay in central neighborhoods like the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés. These areas are picturesque and conveniently located, reducing the time spent traveling between landmarks and maximizing your sightseeing opportunities.
3. Dining Tips: Reservations are crucial, especially for popular and Michelin-starred restaurants. Many establishments fill up quickly, so booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on a memorable dining experience.
4. Cultural Etiquette: Learn a few basic French phrases such as “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Merci” (Thank you). Even small efforts to speak the local language are greatly appreciated and can make your interactions with locals more pleasant and welcoming.
5. Budgeting: Plan your budget carefully. Allocate extra funds for museum passes, Seine cruises, and dining experiences. These small splurges are worth it and will significantly enhance your Parisian adventure.

For more travel tips and itinerary guides for your European trip, read our blogs here!

Paris is more than just a city; it’s an experience. From its iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods to its rich culinary offerings, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re marveling at the Eiffel Tower, savoring falafels in the Marais, or strolling along the Seine, every moment in Paris is a memory waiting to be made.

As Hemingway aptly put it, “Paris is a moveable feast.” And after our time there, we couldn’t agree more. Use this guide to plan your trip, and we’re confident you’ll fall in love with Paris just as we did. Bon voyage!

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo