The Ultimate 3 Day in Paris Itinerary: FULL Day-By-Day Guide

Oh, Paris… This has been the sixth or seventh time I've visited Paris, and the fascination remains.

It really is a city that never gets old, and there is always a spot you can visit for the first time or a place you always come back to. I have to admit that the Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tour and the Trocadero Gardens are my favorites.

Whether you are coming with your friends or family for a long weekend, with your partner for a romantic getaway, or for a few days on your own to master the art of croissants (both baking and eating them), this City of Love will receive you with open arms.

If, unlike me, this is your first time coming to Paris and you want to know what should be on your checklist, don't worry; I've got you covered. Below is a 3 day in Paris itinerary that will surely get you to see most of the city and some (unfortunately not so hidden anymore) gems of the French capital. 

Best Time to Go to Paris

Let's start with the best time to go to Paris. I've seen all the seasons in this city and believe me when I say that, after all this time, I still can't pick my favorite one to spend the perfect 3 days in Paris.

Spring – Flowers are everywhere; the Champs-Elysées particularly look fabulous during this season, but the Trocadero Gardens always get me in spring (I told you I have a thing for these gardens!). The days are longer, which calls for rooftop drinks and walks or cruises along the Seine. Spring is the perfect time for first-timers to visit Paris, the city will show off in its best light!

Fall – The city was built in pastel colors and, particularly during this time of the year, it seems like everything blends and makes sense, almost as if Paris was designed to always live in the fall. The days can still be warm during this season, and even though you have fewer daylight hours, fall is also a great time to visit the city.

Summer – Summer is a wonderful time to visit Paris, but, to be honest, it is my least favorite season of the four. And I'll tell you why: it can get boiling hot in Paris, both inside and outside. The lack of breeze, the miles you will undoubtedly walk, and the lengthy lines can make your Paris experience less great. 

Winter – It can get cold in Paris, like really cold, which is just a good enough reason to sit on one of the many esplanades (they are heated!) and indulge in a hot chocolate and a crepe. Both snow and rain are a possibility, so come prepared.

Where to Stay in Paris

When visiting Paris for the first time and looking for a central location with easy access to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, consider staying in the 1st arrondissement, particularly around the lively area of Les Halles.

If you prefer a bohemian atmosphere with art galleries, cafes, and vintage shops, the Marais district in the 4th arrondissement is perfect.

For a more upscale and elegant experience, opt for the 7th arrondissement near the Champ de Mars, offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

Best Hotels in Paris

Best Luxury Hotel: Shangri-La Paris – best Eiffel Tower view
Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hôtel Bourg Tibourg – located in the lively Marais
Best Budget Hotel: Hôtel Molière – near the Louvre Museum

How to Get to and Around Paris

You have a few options for traveling around Paris, from the Metro to buses and ride-shares, making it easy to hop from croissants to Monets.

If you only have 3 days in Paris, avoid the car and maybe the Beauvais Airport (more on that below).

By Metro

Paris is a big city, but the good news is that its metro system is excellent. They have 14 lines that will take you to 95% of the places you want to go to, and the good thing about the Paris metro is that the wait time between metros is relatively short.

For your 3 days in Paris, you can get a Metro Paris Pass for one, two, or three days – the prices start at €13,95/per person for one day.

However, remember, more than 12 million people live in Paris, and more than 35 million people visit Paris every year, so you can imagine how packed the metro cars can get sometimes.

Travel tip: Full or not, always be aware of pickpockets when traveling the metro in Paris. 

By Bus, Uber, Car

The bus is a great way to get from the main airports (Paris has three in total!) to the city, but that is all. The traffic in Paris is chaotic, so traveling above ground is something that I genuinely don't recommend.

That is why renting a car is not a great idea if you want to follow this (or other) Paris itinerary. Besides the traffic, the parking is limited and expensive.

Ubers and other hail ride services are convenient, especially at night when the metro is closed, and all that's left for you to return to your hotel or Airbnb is the night bus.

Lastly, Paris like many other European cities has a convenient self-service bike rental system which you can pick up through the app on all corners of the city.

A Note on How to NOT Get to Paris

Paris has three major airports: Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Beauvais. None of the three is in the city center. And especially Paris Beauvais Airport, which is often used by low-cost aviation companies like Ryanair, is quite far from the city center.

By accident, I flew there the last time I went to Paris, a decision I will never forget!

From this airport, you can either take the bus (if it operates!) and then the metro to get to your final destination. Or you have to hail a taxi/Uber, which will be expensive and lengthy – it took my friend and me over 1.5 hours to get to our hotel.

3 Days in Paris Itinerary

Day 1: Walking Around the Historic Heart of Paris Itinerary

For day one of your Paris adventure, I recommend exploring the historic heart of the city. Wander on cobblestone streets while you learn about the tales of centuries past.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, day one as all about immersing yourself in Parisian history and culture.

Notre Dame Cathedral

I had to start here as this has always been a place I return to every time I visit Paris.

The major fire that almost destroyed the Cathedral in 2019 broke my heart, but the good news is that it is bound to fully open back to the public in time for the 2024 Summer Olympics. 

Even though I haven't been able to take the spiral staircase that takes you up for some of the most amazing views in Paris, I always come to admire this monument (silently hoping that the doors will be open and I'll be able to enjoy its magnificent interior and views one more time).

I can't point precisely to what attracts me to the Notre Dame de Paris, if it is the Gothic architecture, the stained glass murals, or the gargoyles, there is just something magical and unique about this place. 

Maybe it's none of that, and I'm only trying to find out if the Quasimodo, the Hunchback of Notre Dame, really lives here.

Sainte Chapelle

This building was built in record time, less than seven years in the 13th century. Sainte Chapelle was designed to house Christian relics – interestingly, here, you'll find (so they say) Christ's crown of thorns and a fragment of the True Cross.

But, in my opinion, this is not the main reason to visit this gorgeous monument.

The real allure of this place is the fifteen 15m height stain-glass windows depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. As soon as you step foot in this church, you are taken by the colors reflected from the murals, and it feels a little bit like Alice in Wonderland.

The ticket costs €13 and can be bought in advance directly on the Chapelle's website. You can also buy the Paris Museum Pass which covers the entrance to the Sainte Chapelle and many other Paris monuments and museums such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Panthéon and Centre Pompidou.

Île de la Cité

If you follow my Paris itinerary, you don't have to go to the île de la cité because you are there already. This is one of the two islands in the Seine River and is said to be the birthplace of Paris.

It is home to the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Sainte Chapelle, two of Paris's oldest and most iconic monuments. I simply love strolling around and enjoying the atmosphere of this historic place when visiting Paris.

Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin)

If, like me, you love books and architecture, you are going to get lost here!

The Latin Quarter is, in fact, the oldest district in Paris (and the most charming, I might add), and it is famous for its bohemian culture.

Home to the Sorbonne University, it's quite easy to get lost on this quarter's streets and be taken back in time.

Full of bookstores and cafes, the Latin Quarter owes its name to the language that was once the main one spoken in these streets. 

Luxembourg Gardens

If you find yourself in the Luxembourg Gardens wondering why these sound familiar, they probably do. Built in the 17th century, they were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence.

With over 100 statues, a geometric forest, a large pond, and a French garden, this is the perfect place to rest and eat a crepe. The gardens are open and free to the public.

One funny thing about Paris and its gardens is that thousands of chairs are sprawled around them, often around the ponds. During the weekends, it might be challenging to find a spot with Parisians and tourists alike, finding the ideal place to relax in these chairs.

Tuileries Gardens (Jardin de Tuileries)

As we're talking about gardens, I believe these are worth mentioning too. Plus, they are just around the corner from the Louvre, our next stop on your three day Paris itinerary.

I've got one word to describe these gardens: immense!

And that's no surprise given that they were landscaped by André Le Nôtre, the famous gardener of King Louis XIV (nothing small ever comes from this Louis, right?). The gardens separate the Place de la Concorde from the Louvre, and they are another great place to rest (you'll also find hundreds of chairs here) or stroll around.

Interestingly, they are connected to Olympic history, and they were the first place where three medals of different colors were awarded to the top three finishers. 

Louvre Museum

Home to one of the most famous Madonnas in the world (and I don't mean the Queen of Pop), the Louvre is the largest art museum in the world and the biggest historic monument in Paris.

When you think about the Louvre, you likely think about DaVinci's Mona Lisa, of course! But I also think of another famous Paris landmark: the glass pyramid that is the main entrance to the museum.

Built in the 12th century as a fortress for Philip II, the Louvre spans nearly 783,000 square feet and exhibits over 38,000 objects from prehistory to 21st-century modern art. This museum will always be an impressive sight, both from inside and outside, but I advise going there when the night starts to fall.

Then, the whole outside section of this once-upon-a-time fortress becomes a mesmerizing sea of lights, a spectacle not to be missed. Maybe it's an optical illusion, or the musicians always playing live music in the square made me add this to the list as one of my most unforgettable experiences in Paris.

To avoid queuing in the endless lines outside, you can buy your ticket for the Louvre Museum online. This way, you just have to choose a starting time. Once you arrive, you'll get to skip the line and can enter the Louvre right away.

Note that sometimes there is a small line for pre-bought online tickets as you still have to go through airport-like security, however, it's still always much faster than getting tickets out front.

Day 2: Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysées

On Day 2, prepare to be swept off your feet by Paris's most iconic landmarks as you ascend the Eiffel Tower.

Then, stand in awe beneath the Arc de Triomphe or climb up for breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the city's timeless beauty from every angle.

Eiffel Tower

Two years, two months, and five days was the time it took to build the 300-meter Eiffel Tower designed as a symbol of industrial and engineering prowess.

Known as the Iron Lady, the Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. It's interesting to think that something that was supposed to be torn down after 20 years has become the most visited monument in the entire world! That is why visiting it is an event in itself.

Buy your tickets online and in advance to ensure you can get the ticket you want. You have the option to either get the 2nd-floor access or the top summit access, and there are two ways to get to the 2nd floor – stairs or lift!

Unfortunately, even if you do so, there will be lines, so be prepared for both the wait and the experience. The views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are incredible (unless you suffer from vertigo, it might be better to stay on the 2nd floor).

Travel Tip: For an unforgettable stay with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, consider booking your accommodation in the upscale 7th arrondissement, where you can admire the iconic landmark from your hotel room window!

Trocadero Gardens

I know what you're thinking: more gardens. But you don't even have to walk a lot to get to this one, as the Trocadero Gardens are just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower.

It's a great place to rest if you get exhausted from your Eiffel Tower visit. If you're in Paris with your other half and the weather is good, then I highly recommend a picnic amidst lush greenery, it's just so romantic! Additionally, you can explore the various sculptures and fountains dotted throughout the gardens.

You might be familiar with the Trocadero, the “terrace” as you'll probably know someone who got engaged there (we all do), with the Eiffel Tower as the perfect background.

This is the exact place on Google Maps. The spot is often crowded, but it's where you'll get one of the best shots of the Eiffel Tower.

Arc de Triomphe

Another famous landmark of Paris, the Arc de Triomphe, was built to honor the Napoleonic troops in the 1800s.

To get to the Arc, you'll need to find the underground passage (please don't try to cross the roundabout) that will take you to the middle of the square. There, you'll find the entrance that will take you to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for some stunning views of the city.

Like many other attractions in Paris, you can buy the tickets online for the Arc de Triomphe or you can purchase the Paris Museum Pass for your 3 days in Paris.

Champs-Elysées

Starting at the Arc de Triomphe and stretching all the way to the Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Elysées is probably the most famous shopping avenue in the world (and also the most crowded one).

Here, you'll find all the luxury designer brands, hundreds of cafes, and some of the most famous theaters in Paris. 

Galleries Lafayette

If you couldn't find what you were looking for in the Champs-Elysées luxury stores, you'll find it in the Galeries Lafayette. Even if you don't want to do some shopping, believe me when I say that the Lafayette department store is worth being on your perfect Paris itinerary and well worth a visit!

If not for its famous Art Nouveau glass and steel dome, then for its rooftop terrace and the panoramic city views you get from there! The flagship store is on Boulevard Haussmann, but there's another Galeries Lafayette on Champs-Élysées.

Montmartre

Montmartre looks like a small village inside the chaos of Paris. Renowned as a hub for bohemian culture and artistic expression, this area hosts some of Paris's most innovative art stores.

I can see the appeal that artists like Picasso and Van Gogh had with this neighborhood of Paris. I'm not an artist, but I felt inspired just by walking these narrow, calm streets.

Visit the Place du Tertre if you want to see the local artists in action. This square is often full of painters drawing the streets and people of Paris.

Sacré-Coeur Basilica

At the summit of Montmartre, you'll find Sacré-Coeur, one of the highest vantage points in Paris. From here you'll get some of the best views of the entire city!

I love to come here when the sun is going down so I can appreciate three things: the magical golden hour on the basilica walls, the sundown show from the steps of the basilica, and the small dots of light that start to appear all over Paris as night starts to fall.

Day 3: Canals, Bridges and Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Père-Lachaise Cemetery

If, like me, you like to see how people have been honoring their dead for generations, you have to visit the Père-Lachaise Cemetery.

This is the most visited necropolis in the world, and here you'll find the final resting place of famous names like Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, and Chopin.

Lined with hauntingly beautiful mausoleums and statues, its avenues offer a peaceful retreat from the city.

Canal Saint-Martin

Famous for its iron footbridges and locks, this is a popular spot among locals for a picnic, a stroll, or the charming cafes along its banks.

Note that if you do attach a lock to the bridges over Canal Saint-Martin in Paris, they are periodically removed by authorities due to safety concerns and to preserve the structural integrity of the bridges.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés Neighborhood

Once Paris's literary and intellectual center, this neighborhood is famous for its luxury boutiques and cafes, such as Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, which existentialists like Sartre and Beauvoir frequented.

Pont Alexandre III

There are many bridges crossing the Seine River, but the Pont Alexandre III is the most extravagant.

Adorned with Art Nouveau lamps, cherubs, nymphs, and winged horses, it offers a great view of the Eiffel Tower. 

Got More Time? My Additional Recommendations for Paris

Wander the Streets of Le Marais

This historic district is known for its vibrant nightlife, boutiques, and the beautiful Place des Vosges.

I absolutely love the little streets lined with quaint cafes, stylish galleries, and trendy shops.

Spend a Day at Versailles

The epitome of royal opulence, Versailles is located just outside Paris and that is why I didn't include it in our Paris itinerary. Famous for its Hall of Mirrors, Grand Apartments, and expansive gardens, this palace is just another example of the grandeur of Louis XIV.

Wall of Love (Le Mur Des Je T’Aime)

Located in Montmartre's Jehan Rictus garden square, you'll find a wall with “I love you” written in 250 languages. It's a tribute to love in the city of love. A great photo spot too!

Travel Tip: Check ahead on Google if it's currently under construction! I usually go by reading the reviews.

Watch a Show at Moulin Rouge

A stamp of Parisian nightlife and entertainment, the Moulin Rouge is a historic cabaret in the heart of Montmartre. Like the Eiffel Tower, it opened in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle and has captivated people from all around the globe ever since with its extravagant performances, including the famous can-can dance.

Make sure you book it ahead online to not miss out!

Visit Disneyland Paris

Needing no introduction, Disneyland Paris is, unfortunately, a stretch for a 3 day in Paris itinerary, especially if this is your first time visiting the capital of France. However, if you are traveling with kids, you might want to skip some of the historic sights in exchange for a day at Disneyland.

Where to Eat in Paris: Best Restaurants

The Big Mamma group

If you love delicious and indulgent Italian cuisine (this is not a mistake, and yes, I know I'm talking about Paris), choose one of the Pink Mamma restaurants, and you won't regret it.

I've tried more than one location, and one thing is sure: their truffle pasta is an enchantment. They have great pizzas, and their cocktail list is quite interesting (as are the cups they serve their cocktails in).

The style of the restaurants is also something you won't miss, with Pink Mamma still being one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris. 

Essential—they have several restaurants scattered around Paris and are often fully booked, so you must book your table before you land (reservations open four weeks in advance on their website). 

Angelica

The. Best. Hot. Chocolate. Ever.

Well, their eclairs are also very good, but the hot chocolate is just incredible! Angelina is a cute boutique café just on the side of the Jardin de Tuileries, and it's worth the line.

Did I talk about their hot chocolate already?

Le Relais de L'Entrecote

If I had to choose a capital for the entrecote, it would be Paris. That was why I endured almost 2 hours in line to try the original entrecote in this traditional restaurant (twice).

The atmosphere is exquisite, as is the food. You can only choose the point of your beef and what you'll have to drink (I find this quite calming as I tend to suffer from FOMO with interminable menus). Here, you start with a green salad seasoned with almonds and a Dijon mustard sauce, and then you have the most fantastic beef drowned in this indescribably delicious sauce with a side of French fries.

The place is always packed, and even though you'll probably end up sitting very close to people you haven't made the trip to Paris with, the service is fast, and the food is worth it.

An interesting fact about this place is that you'll only see very efficient and professional women working the room. 

Ladurée

Another place with a line (like most good things in Paris), Ladurée is the famous macaron spot. And if, by this time, you are wondering what a macaron is, then you definitely need to go here!

These delicate cookies seem made of thin air and instantly dissolve as soon as they touch your tongue, creating an indescribable feast of flavor. There are so many different flavors and combinations that the most challenging part of your Ladurée journey will not be in the queue, but what flavors should you take home with you?

Visit their website to learn about all the available flavors (bear in mind that you'll have your mouth watering as soon as the page loads; don't say I didn't warn you!). 

3 Days in Paris Itinerary – Frequently Asked Questions

✈️ Is it worth going to Paris for three days? 

Paris is a huge city, but with perfect planning and some very comfortable sneakers, you can check all your Paris bookmarks with this 3 days in Paris itinerary. 

🤑 How much does it cost to spend three days in Paris? 

Unfortunately, Paris is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, especially in terms of accommodation. Not accounting for the airfare, 3 days in Paris can go from US$600-$1000. Still, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it's worth every penny. 

📍 What is the best part of Paris to stay in?

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts), each offering a unique slice of the Parisian lifestyle. Although it will depend on your interests (and budget), the 18th Arrondissement (Montmartre) for its bohemian atmosphere and the 6th Saint-Germain-des-Prés for its famous cafe culture are my personal top picks for 3 days in Paris.

3 Days in Paris Itinerary – Final Words

“Paris is always a good idea” is my enthusiastic answer whenever someone asks me about its allure. Its architectural charm, the majestic grandiosity of its monuments, and its decadent croissants and pain au chocolate are just a few things that will never get old.

Whether you are staying for 3 days in Paris or an entire week, take some time to reflect on the things you are passionate about; after all, you are in the very heart of the City of Love.   

Paris Olympic Games – Final Note

Paris will host the Olympic games in the summer of 2024.

This means the city will be even more packed than normal, the lines will be longer, and things will be much more expensive (the metro ticket is said to increase from the current €2,15 to €4 per trip). This means that booking hotels and tours ahead is absolutely essential!