How to spend 3 days in Paris: The Perfect Paris Itinerary
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Planning 3 days in Paris isn’t as simple as ticking off the Eiffel Tower and grabbing a croissant on the way to the Louvre.
It’s easy to cram too much in, miss the best moments, or end up exhausted from zigzagging across the city on the metro.
I’ve been to Paris multiple times — as a first-time tourist, a budget backpacker, and a return visitor chasing cafés I saw in French films.
And each trip taught me what works… and what really doesn’t.
Like starting at the Louvre on day one? Rookie mistake. You’ll burn out before the day even begins. I’ll show you what to do instead.
This Paris itinerary is built from real experience — designed to help you see the best of the city without rushing, stressing, or spending half your time lost underground.
You’ll get a mix of icons and hidden corners, bakery stops and sunset views — so that by the time you leave, Paris actually feels like Paris.
Make sure to be prepared for your next adventure by making use of the best travel resources. Sign up below to download the FREE Travel Resources list. These are tried and tested resources, that I use to book ALL of my travels.
Day 1: Iconic Paris — Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Seine
Let’s be honest: your first day in Paris isn’t about taking it slow.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to chase every postcard moment — from sunrise at the Eiffel Tower to a golden-hour cruise along the Seine.
It’s a big day (Google says nearly 3 hours of walking, but let’s be real: it took us double with all the photo stops).
Paris is full of surprises — even the quiet backstreets feel like movie sets — so while the metro is cheap and efficient, I recommend walking as much as you can.
Some of my favorite memories came from the unexpected: a violinist playing by the Seine, a bakery that smelled too good to skip.
Day 1 is about falling in love with the Paris you’ve imagined for years — and a few corners you never saw coming.
Morning: Sunrise, Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées
Catch sunrise at the Eiffel Tower
There’s no better way to start your trip than with sunrise at the Eiffel Tower — cliché? Maybe. But also completely magical.
We grabbed croissants from a local boulangerie and walked over while it was still dark.
As we arrived at Trocadéro, the tower started to glow against the soft pink sky. No crowds. No noise. Just stillness and that “I’m really in Paris” moment.
Start your stroll at Trocadéro for the best views and photos — especially as the sun rises directly behind the tower in spring and fall. Bring a picnic if you can, and soak in the quiet before the city wakes up.
You’ll be back later to climb the tower — so for now, just breathe it all in.
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe looks elegant now, but 45 years before it was built, a French architect proposed putting a giant elephant statue in its place.
Yes, really.
Built to honor soldiers lost during the Napoleonic Wars and the French Revolution, the Arc is both imposing and beautiful — and worth climbing for the panoramic view.
💡 Tip: Don’t try to cross the road above ground (even on my third visit I forgot about there was a safe way to cross the road).
There’s an underground tunnel that takes you safely to the base.
Access to the roundabout is free, but climbing to the top costs €13. Pre-book to skip the line.
Champs-Élysées
This famous avenue stretches from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde and is a mix of designer shops, cafés, and tourist stalls. It’s touristy — sure — but iconic for a reason.
We wandered without an agenda (except to buy my first Louis Vuitton purse!), stopping for macarons at Ladurée (which converted me from a macaron skeptic into a full-blown fan). The people-watching is just as good as the shopping.
🧁 Pro Tip: Try a macaron even if you don’t think they’re your thing. You might be surprised.
Afternoon: Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre
Tuileries Garden
Walking from the Champs-Élysées to the Louvre takes you through the Tuileries Garden — and it’s a gorgeous place to pause.
This is where locals come to read, chat, or just enjoy the sun. We picked up a baguette and wine, sat by one of the fountains, and did some world-class people-watching.
Don’t miss Place de la Concorde nearby — once the site of Marie Antoinette’s execution, it now features a towering obelisk and, in winter, a giant Ferris wheel with some of the best views in the city.
Explore the Louvre
Yes, it’s massive. Yes, it’s overwhelming. But if you plan it right, the Louvre is unforgettable.
Beyond the Mona Lisa (which is much smaller than you think), the museum holds everything from Egyptian artifacts to medieval ruins.
We booked tickets in advance for late afternoon — avoiding the lines and crowds made a huge difference.
🎧 Tip: Grab an audio guide or download a Louvre app before you go. It helps you find the highlights and gives context that makes everything more meaningful.
Evening: Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower Climb & Seine Sunset Cruise
Notre Dame
After years of restoration following the 2019 fire, Notre Dame Cathedral is finally open to visitors again — and it’s absolutely worth stepping inside.
We arrived in the late afternoon, and while there was a short line, it moved quickly. Once inside, the cathedral’s grandeur hits you: the soaring ceilings, the stained-glass windows, the reverent quiet. It’s one of those places that still feels sacred, no matter how many tourists are inside.
🎟 Admission is free, but you’ll go through a bag check. Inside, don’t miss the Crown of Thorns, if it’s on display, and take a moment to just sit and soak up the Gothic beauty.
📍 Tip: Head around to the back after your visit. The rear view of the cathedral from the Seine is stunning — especially at golden hour. And keep an eye out for the newly restored spire!
Climb the Eiffel Tower
Now that you’ve seen the tower from afar, it’s time to go up.
Security is tight (bags scanned, body scanners), so give yourself time. You can either walk to the second floor (over 600 stairs — doable, but sweaty) or take the lift straight up.
We climbed to the second floor and took the elevator from there. It felt like we earned our champagne toast at the top — yes, they actually sell champagne on the top floor.
🍾 Tip: Visit around sunset for incredible views as the city lights come on. And don’t forget to look up at the tower itself once the twinkle lights start at night — they go off every hour, on the hour.
Sunset Cruise on the River Seine
To end your day, hop on a sunset cruise along the Seine. It’s romantic, calming, and a great way to see many of the landmarks from a fresh perspective.
There are budget-friendly options (~€10) or splurge-worthy dinner cruises if you want something extra special.
Most cruises last between 60–90 minutes and include live commentary in multiple languages.
🧥 Tip: If it’s chilly, bundle up. Sitting outside is so worth it when the Eiffel Tower sparkles above the water.
Day 2: Neighborhood Charm — Le Marais, Montmartre & Moulin Rouge
After a whirlwind of iconic sights on Day 1, Day 2 is all about soaking up the character of Paris’s neighborhoods — from the historic charm of Le Marais, to the bohemian soul of Montmartre, and the glitzy nostalgia of Moulin Rouge at night.
This is the day where Paris slows down a little. You’ll wander quiet lanes, stumble into art studios, nibble on falafel and pastries, and maybe even get your portrait sketched in the shadow of Sacré-Cœur. It’s less about ticking boxes, and more about feeling the rhythm of local life.
Comfortable shoes, an open afternoon, and a little curiosity go a long way today.
Morning: Wander Through Le Marais
Start your day in Le Marais, one of Paris’s most charming and effortlessly cool neighborhoods. Think cobblestone lanes, crêperies, hidden courtyards, and vintage boutiques tucked between old stone buildings.
We wandered here with no agenda and ended up staying for hours. I still dream about the falafel from L’As du Fallafel — it’s touristy, but for a reason. There are also tucked-away bakeries, specialty bookstores, and the peaceful Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s oldest and prettiest squares.
🛍️ Tip: If you’re into shopping, this is the place for unique, local finds — especially along Rue des Francs-Bourgeois.
Afternoon: Explore Montmartre
Next, take the metro (or an Uber if you’re short on time) over to Montmartre — the hilltop artists’ quarter that somehow still feels like a village.
Start at Sacré-Cœur. It’s free to enter, and the panoramic view from the steps out front is one of the best in Paris.
If you’re up for it, climb the dome — it’s even more impressive than the view from the Eiffel Tower (and less crowded).
We got lost wandering the winding streets behind the basilica — and that’s the best way to do Montmartre.
You’ll pass ivy-covered houses, tiny galleries, and street artists sketching portraits in Place du Tertre.
🎨 Personal Moment: I still have the sketch I had done here years ago — it’s a little rough, but it’s also one of my favorite souvenirs.
🥐 Snack Tip: Grab a pastry or espresso from a local café and people-watch. Everything feels a little slower in Montmartre, and it’s a nice break from the rest of the city.
Evening: See the Moulin Rouge (and Yes, It’s Worth It)
We ended our second day with the Moulin Rouge show — and honestly, it was one of the highlights of the trip.
We booked the show and champagne option and had dinner at our hostel beforehand – we could have had dinner at the Moulin Rouge but we were travelling on a budget!
At first, I couldn’t find any available tickets, but I checked back a couple of weeks later and got lucky.
So if it’s sold out the first time you look, try again. Booking early is a must, especially in peak season.
Yes, it’s expensive. But the performance was full of energy, glitter, and drama in the best way — a true Paris experience.
The costumes, the dancing, the atmosphere — it’s something I think everyone should do at least once.
If you’re not into the idea of the show, the area around Pigalle is still worth visiting at night.
The red windmill lit up against the night sky is iconic, and there are plenty of nearby bars and cafés to enjoy the vibe.
Day 3: A Royal Day Trip to Versailles
For your third and final day in Paris, it’s time to swap city streets for palace halls and royal gardens with a day trip to Versailles.
It’s an easy train ride away, and absolutely worth dedicating a full day to.
Versailles is everything you imagine — gold-trimmed gates, mirrored halls, endless fountains — but it’s also bigger, busier, and more overwhelming than it looks in photos. The first time I went, I was shocked by the sheer scale of it all.
My feet were dead by the end, but I still think it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in France.
If this is your first time in Paris, it’s the perfect way to end your trip on a high note — a peaceful escape from the city, with a touch of royal drama.
Morning: Getting There and Beating the Crowds
Versailles opens around 9 AM, and it’s worth getting there as close to opening as possible – especially if you want photos without hundreds of people in them.
Take the RER C train from central Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche. The ride takes about 45 minutes, and it’s a short walk to the palace from the station.
Book your tickets in advance and choose a time slot. I recommend the Passport ticket, which gives you access to the palace, gardens, and Trianon estate. You’ll go through airport-style security, so leave time for that.
Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes. You will walk. A lot.
Midday: Exploring the Palace and Gardens
Start with the main palace. The Hall of Mirrors is stunning, and even with the crowds, it’s surreal to stand where royals once danced, plotted, and made history.
Most people focus on the main rooms, but if you have time, duck into the lesser-known areas — the King’s Private Apartments are a quieter gem.
After the palace, head into the gardens. They’re massive, beautifully landscaped, and a nice break from the more crowded palace interiors.
If the fountains are running (usually on weekends or during summer shows), they add a whole other layer of magic.
There are cafés on-site, but we packed a picnic and ate by the Grand Canal. Sitting on the grass, baguette in hand, with the palace in the distance — it doesn’t get much more French than that.
Afternoon: The Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet
If you still have energy, the Trianon estate is worth the walk. The Grand Trianon is elegant, but the real star for me was Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet — a whimsical little village she had built to escape court life.
It’s quiet, oddly charming, and completely different from the grandeur of the main palace. Wandering through it feels like stepping into a fairytale.
We stayed at Versailles until late afternoon before heading back to Paris for one last dinner. It was the perfect way to end our trip — peaceful, scenic, and full of history.
Before You Go: Practical Tips for Your 3 Days in Paris
How to Get to Paris
Getting to Paris is easy, whether you’re flying in from overseas or hopping on a train from a neighboring country.
We’ve arrived in Paris a few different ways — by train, by budget airline, and once even by car when road-tripping through France. Each has its perks depending on where you’re coming from and how much time you have.
If you’re flying, you’ll likely land at either Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) — both are about 30–45 minutes from the city center. We’ve used the RER train to get into town, which costs around €10 and is the quickest way into central Paris.
If you’re coming from the UK, the Eurostar from London to Paris is super convenient and drops you right at Gare du Nord. It’s perfect for short getaways.
Driving is an option too, especially if you’re already exploring Europe. Just keep in mind that parking in Paris is limited and expensive, and traffic can be intense.
✈️ Book flights and trains early during peak seasons for the best fares.
Best time to visit Paris
Best Time to Visit Paris
Paris is beautiful all year round — but your experience will change depending on when you go.
Summer (June–August) brings long, sunny days and buzzing cafés, but also big crowds and higher prices. We visited once in July and found ourselves queueing for everything — so if you’re not a fan of crowds, it might not be your season.
For a sweet spot, I recommend April–May or September–October. The weather is still lovely, but the city is calmer and more affordable.
Winter has its charm too — Christmas markets, mulled wine, and the chance of a dusting of snow over the rooftops. Just pack warm layers and be ready for shorter days.
🎒 Plan around your travel style — whether that’s warm patios and rosé or twinkling lights and cosy cafés.
Finding your way around Paris
Paris is big, but surprisingly walkable — especially if you plan smart.
Many of the major sights are close together, and some of our best memories came from wandering between them on foot. That said, your feet will get tired — so it’s good to mix walking with public transport.
The Metro is easy to navigate, runs frequently, and is affordable. If you’re staying a few days, look into daily or multi-day passes instead of buying single tickets. We used a Navigo Découverte pass once, and it paid off quickly.
The city is divided into 20 arrondissements, spiraling outward from the center. The lower the number, the more central the neighborhood.
On our last trip, we tried Velib bike rentals, especially at night when the roads were quieter. You get 30 minutes free per ride — just dock and swap bikes to ride all day for almost nothing.
🚲 If you’re confident on two wheels, cycling around Paris at night is magical.
Where to stay in Paris
Budget
Elysées Union Hôtel is located in the 16th arrondissement and is a short walk from major sites such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.
The hotel is located in a 19th century building and was once the home of Marcel Proust. The rooms are made up of either singles, doubles, triples or two bedroom apartments complete with kitchenettes.
Breakfast is served each morning in the breakfast room and guests are free to enjoy the hotel bar. Parking is located near by but fees may apply so keep this in mind when booking your stay.
Compare prices on Booking.com | Agoda
Mid-Range
Hotel Petit Paris is a beautiful boutique hotel located close to the Luxembourg Gardens and the Latin Quarter.
If you are wanting to spend most of your time exploring the city on foot then this will be the perfect hotel for you.
You are also located 5 minutes from Gare du Nord train station, which is perfect if you are arriving into Paris by Train or if you are planning day trips from Paris.
The décor of the rooms are to resemble Historic France and every room is sound proof with either views of the garden or the inner courtyard.
Each get will be able to enjoy a buffet breakfast each morning in the breakfast room and every room has a mini bar for those late night munchies and there is a bar for you to enjoy a drink after your busy day of exploring Paris.
Compare prices on Booking.com | Agoda
Luxury
The Shangri-La in Paris was once the resident of Prince Roland Bonaparte, Napoleon’s Great Nephew.
Today, it is a palace 5-star hotel, located on the east corner of Jardins du Trocadéro.
Not only do you receive a fabulous view of the Eiffel Tower but you are also a short 10 minute walk from the tower.
As you might expect, everything about this hotel is complete lavish luxury. From the grand staircase to the opulent bathrooms, you will feel as though you are living your own Royal Dream.
Each room has its own living room space and beautiful bathrooms complete with rain shower and separate bath tub.
The upper levels have beautiful balcony to enjoy your breakfast as your admire the view of the Eiffel Tower.
The restaurants (there are two!) offer both Asian and French cuisine and are overseen by Michelin starred Chef Christophe Moret.
In the morning, guests can take in a beautiful breakfast in the glass roofed restaurant.
Why not enjoy the spa and health and wellness center in the evening after a day of exploring the must see sites in Paris!
Compare prices on Booking.com | Agoda
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you get the museum pass?
The Paris Museum Pass allows you access for free and without waiting in lines at over 50 museums and monuments around Paris.
You can choose a pass for 2, 4 or 6 days and your pass is valid from the first time you use it, which means you can buy it in advance without worrying about wasting time.
The Paris Pass allows you access ONCE to each museum or monument on the list.
So what does the Paris Museum Pass cost? Two days will cost 52€ per person, four days will cost 66€ and 6 days will cost 78€.
Some of the museums and monuments included with the pass are the Arc de Triomphe, The Louvre, Pantheon and many many more.
In my opinion, you need to do your research to help you decide if the Pass is going to be worth it for you. If you are planning on visiting more museums and monuments than are listed on the itinerary I would say the pass is worth it for you.
However, if you are following this itinerary “to a T” then you will not get your money’s worth on the pass.
If you choose to purchase the pass you can do so online, at train stations, in the museums and in some shops. For more information on where to purchase the pass click here.
What about the Paris Pass?
Another Pass on offer in Paris is the Paris Pass. You may have heard of this before as many of the main cities in Europe have a city pass available for purchase.
The Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass and access to other attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Hop-on-hop off bus, the Louvre, Seine River Cruise, Arc de Triomphe and many more.
As with the Museum Pass, your pass it not activated until you visit your first attraction, so you can safely purchase it in advance.
You are only allowed access to each attraction ONCE using the pass.
A 2 day pass costs 110€ per adult and 39€ per child, the 3 day pass costs 129€ per adult and 49€ per child, the 4 day pass costs 149€ per adult and 59€ per child and finally the 6 day pass costs 169€ per adult and 69€ per child.
So is the Paris Pass worth the cost? Again, like with the Museum Pass you need to do some research to see how many attractions you are planning to visit and how much individual tickets will cost versus buying the pass.
If you are following this itinerary, then you are better off purchasing the 2 day Paris Pass with the Museum pass included.
For more information on the Paris Pass please click here
Is 3 days in Paris enough?
Is any amount of time really enough in Paris? The answer is probably no. Depending on what you want to see and do, three days in Paris is probably enough.
It gives you enough time to see the bucket list items, explore some of the neighbours and get out of the city to places like Versailles or Disneyland Paris.
Three days in Paris works perfectly as a long weekend trip or as part of a four week tour of Europe.
However, I will warn you, if this is your first time visiting Paris you probably will feel as though three days in Paris is not quite enough and you will be planning your return trip the minute the minute you leave.
So, long story short, three days in Paris is definitely enough time to explore Paris and to feel as though you have really been in Paris and at the end of the day, three days in Paris is better than nothing.
How much spending money for 3 days in Paris?
Paris has been touted as one of the most expensive cities in Europe and to an extent this is true.
However, it is possible to see Paris on a budget if you are short on money, you can walk most places, there are plenty of things to see for free in Paris and you can eat on a budget by purchasing picnic supplies (including wine) from the supermarket on a budget.
However, if you would like to splurge and eat out three times a day you will need slightly more money.
On average, I would recommend allowing on average 184€ per day including accommodation. This will allow you to do some paid activities, eat some nice food and stay in a mid class hotel.
Budget Your Trip is a fantastic resource for working out how much things will cost in many cities around the world and might give you a better idea of exactly how much money you are going to need.
What to Do Next
Now that you’ve got your 3-day Paris itinerary mapped out, it’s time to start turning plans into reality.
Here’s what I recommend doing next:
- Book your accommodation — Paris fills up quickly, especially in spring and summer. Choose a spot that works for your travel style and pace.
- Secure your tickets early — Things like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Versailles often sell out weeks in advance. Pre-booking gives you more flexibility and saves time once you’re there.
- Check your dates for events or closures — Paris is always hosting something, and it’s worth checking if any museums, cruises, or landmarks are affected while you’re in town.
- Start building your packing list — Especially if you’re visiting during shoulder season, weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable shoes are a must.
- Think about your travel pace — This itinerary is full, but tweak it based on how you like to travel. It’s okay to skip a sight and linger over coffee instead.
If you’re still feeling unsure or want help planning your days, I’d love to help — send me a message on Instagram or drop a comment below. I answer every one.
Paris has a way of staying with you long after you leave. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, I hope this guide helps you make the most of it.
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