How to spend 3 Days in Paris (2026)

I love traveling to Paris. No matter how many times I’ve been, I always discover somewhere new- a hidden street, a beautiful cafe, an incredible restaurant or a place I somehow missed before.

And that’s exactly what this 3 Days in Paris Itinerary is all about: seeing the icons you can’t come to Paris without visiting, but also discovering some of the places that make the city feel special.

This guide is for the first-timers and if you have more time, also check out my guide about: 10 Prettiest Streets in Paris, you must visit + Paris Map (2025)

Pro Tip: Before we start, I would definitely recommend to book long in advance for Louvre Museum. And yes you definitely need comfy shoes. You can book your Skip-the-line-ticket with 2.5 hours tour here. GETYOURGUIDE

Your Paris Cheat Sheet

If you don’t have time to read the full guide, here is what you need to know:

• Must-Visit Places: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame
• Book before you go: Louvre Tickets, Seine River Cruise, Eiffel Tower Tickets
• Where to Stay: $$$$ Hotel Brighton, $$$ Britannique Hotel (check the hotel section for more hotel options)

A Paris visit can be expensive, but my goal is to show you how to spend 3 days in Paris without breaking the bank. Your trip is packed with unforgettable beautiful memories, but also long walks. Feel free to use the Metro instead of walking, whenever it’s necessary.

Morning: A Parisian Breakfast & the Champs-Élysées

To begin with, I love to do when traveling to Paris is to begin my day in a French way! I love the Parisian boulangeries & Patisseries and what is better than starting your day from Champ-Élysées. Here are my favorites Breakfast spots:

Le Pain Quotidien (Champs-Élysées Location)
If you are a fan of organic food, you’ll love this place. Their organic breakfast in a cozy, rustic setting will give you a good start in the Day! Also enjoy the fresh baked breads and tartines. (It’s affordable with excellent quality)

Ladurée Champs-Élysées
I’m sure you might have heard about this iconic patisserie. Although, their restaurant on Champ-Élysées is different. It’s a must visit for a French breakfast, from croissants to delicate pastries with an epic atmosphere.

A Walk along Champs–Élysées

After a good start, just take a walk on the Champ-Élysées to enjoy the view. On the west side, you’ll see the Arc de Triomphe, which is surrounded by fantastic shops.

Not to mention that, it’s over 3,000 years old, with 75-meters Hight. Most importantly this square was also where, they guillotined people during the French Revolution.

A Must for Your 3 Days in Paris Itinerary

As you stroll through the elegant streets of Paris, you’ll pass an array of luxury brands, including the iconic Louis Vuitton with its stunning flagship building, as well as Cartier and Lancôme.

Even if you’re just window shopping, the experience adds a unique touch of Parisian charm to your trip. A must-see is the exquisite storefront exteriors, as they are just as captivating as the high-end fashion inside.

During our 3 days in Paris, we don’t want to just focus on shopping—we love to take time to appreciate the cultural gems along the way. After that, a short walk leads you to the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, two architectural masterpieces that regularly host world-class art exhibitions and cultural events. These landmarks are a must-see for any Paris itinerary!

about 40 minutes of strolling, you’ll reach the Jardin des Tuileries, one of the most majestic gardens in Paris. Originally home to a grand palace that burned down in the 1800s, this scenic park is now the perfect spot for a leisurely break. Trust me, with so much beauty surrounding you, you won’t even notice the time passing!

Shopping in Paris

Before moving on, don’t forget to snap some stunning photos of the Eiffel Tower in the distance—a picture-perfect moment for any traveler. And of course, you’ll also spot The Louvre, one of the top attractions in any Paris itinerary. But don’t worry, we’ll be coming back here later to explore it in detail!.

You are now located at the Île de la Cité. This is where the Romans built their original settlement. Île de la Cité is a small island in the Seine, which is known as the historic center of Paris. It is home to landmarks like Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, with streets that echo medieval history of the city.

Afterward you can cross the bridge and enjoy the Pont Neuf and the statue of Henry IV. This is a stone bridge and was the first one built in Paris in 1578.

One of the best things to do in Paris is to visit the Sainte Chapelle Church. I love this beautiful church and the timeless architecture. I do recommend to buy your ticket in advance as it’s always a huge line out there.

Lunch: Enjoy a Casual French Meal

I’m almost sure that you’ll need more time for taking pictures and browsing around. So at some point you’ll be hungry again and I do recommend a cozy Parisian bistro located along the Seine. Therefore, my recommendation is to stay in that area and enjoy the view of the Seine.

One of my favorite spots in that area is the restaurant called Le Bistro des Augustins, located along the Seine. This restaurant is offering a a mix of traditional French dishes. Dishes such as quiche, croque-monsieur, and fresh salads, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a meal with a view.

Afternoon: A Cultural Dive at the Louvre

To begin with, let’s head back to Louvre Museum with metro ride (or a 20-minute walk). Not to mention that, this Museum is the home of thousands of Art Works, including the Mona Lisa. Undoubtedly, the Louvre is a treasure trove of world history and it’s always a queue for entering the museum.

Pro Tip: Therefore, you need to plan your visit before traveling to Paris. In addition, I do recommend to decide on which sections you’re most interested in to avoid being overwhelmed. I do recommend to buy your tickets online in advance. If you want to skip the long queues, there are also skip the line tickets available.

Location: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Metro Tip: Take line 1 or 7 to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre.

Late Afternoon: Relax in the Tuileries Garden

Once you’ve had your fill of art and history, step out into the Tuileries Garden right outside the Louvre. This historic park is perfect for a relaxed stroll, a quick rest on a bench, or a refreshing cup of tea from one of the nearby kiosks. Enjoy the sculptures, fountains, and the view towards the Place de la Concorde.

Evening: A Romantic Dinner & a Nighttime River Cruise

For your next adventure (the dinner), reserve a table at Le Bouillon Chartier. Not to mention that this is one of Paris’s classic and affordable Known for its traditional French cuisine. You might also enjoy, it’s historic setting. Furthermore, it’s perfect for a hearty meal without a hefty price tag. Also it’s just 15 minutes walk from where you are.

7:30 PM – Seine River Cruise
Don’t forget, to end your day with a magical Seine River cruise. Many companies offer evening cruises that highlight Paris’s illuminated monuments. Undoubtedly, this is a must-do experience for first-time visitors, as it provides a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Even as a constant-traveler to Paris, I am still doing this almost each time, as you’ll love the vibe of Seine at night. Please check here for suggestions.

Day 2: Explore Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Breakfast at a Café in Montmartre
Start your second day in the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre with breakfast at Le Consulat. Another good Cafe is Café des Deux Moulins (famous from the film “Amélie”). I love both of them and it’s as if you dive into a movie.

What I normally take is a French café crème and a freshly baked pastry while watching the neighborhood come to life and just wait for the best to come.

Location: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
Metro Tip: Take line 2 to Anvers and walk up the hill.

Wander the Streets of Montmartre

I always buy a small piece of art there to keep the memories, and if you browse in the shops, you can find affordable and beautiful things to get.

Since Montmartre has long been known as the bohemian heart of Paris, I do recommend to wander through its charming cobbled streets like visiting local art galleries, and exploring small boutiques. Don’t miss the Place du Tertre, where artists display their work and offer to sketch your portrait.

Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica

A short walk from the bustling streets of Montmartre, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica sits atop the hill, offering breathtaking views of Paris. Climb the steps or take the funicular to reach the basilica and enjoy in its serene ambiance.
Photo Opportunity: The panoramic view from the top is perfect for capturing the city in all its splendor, so don’t miss that part.

Visit the stunning Basilica for free from inside. Although if you want to see the dome and crypt you’ll need to buy a ticket, which is around 6 Euro. But the view is stunning. A must-visit for photographers.

what to see in Paris in 3 days

If you are a museum lover, I also recommend to take your time and visit the Musée de Montmartre. It’s a must-visit for insights into the neighborhood’s artistic past and the lives of painters like Renoir and Toulouse-Lautrec.

A Hearty Meal in the Latin Quarter

This is one of the most lively neighborhood in Paris with so many Bars and restaurants. Since you don’t have a lot of time, what I would recommend for this Quarter is to get a tour and learn a little bit about the history and the hidden gems. If you like this idea, you can take a look at these tours.

But If you’re a self-explorer, just continue my favorite spots below.

Head to the Latin Quarter (see below for metro option) —one of Paris’s most vibrant and youthful areas. This area is always on my visit-list when I’m in Paris, and it’s the best place to find your favorite wine bar.

For lunch, try L’Avant Comptoir, a standing-room-only wine bar that serves delectable small plates and charcuterie. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for a more substantial meal, Chez Gladines offers generous portions of Basque cuisine at affordable prices.

Location: Latin Quarter is easily accessible from Montmartre via metro; take line 4 from Barbès – Rochechouart to Saint-Michel.

Afternoon: Literary Walks & Riverbanks

After lunch, I always love to explore the narrow, winding streets of the Latin Quarter. Or you can also visit the iconic landmarks like the Panthéon, the Sorbonne University, and the historic Rue Mouffetard market. This area is steeped in intellectual history and buzzes with lively cafés, bookshops, and street performers.

Visit Shakespeare & Company in Latin Quarter, because no trip to Paris is complete without visiting this place. It’s the famous English-language bookstore that has welcomed literary giants for decades. Even if you’re not purchasing a book, the atmosphere and historic charm make it worth a visit.

I do recommend to Recharge at a less touristy Cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés and head to La Caféothèque for a more intimate vibe and specialty coffee selections.

Visiting the Iconic Eiffel Tower by Sunset

I love to visit Eiffel Tower before sunset and stay there for some beautiful shots with tower. Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must and it’s Located on the Champ de Mars in the 7th arrondissement. As you most probably know, this iconic monument was built in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle.

The Eiffel Tower

Therefore if you’re in the Latin Quarter, simply head to the Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame RER station. From there you can catch the RER C, which will take you directly to the Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel stop in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the metro from Cluny – La Sorbonne to the same destination via connecting lines.

Once there, explore the tower’s three levels, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views, ascend to the summit. Ticket options vary. You can choose to climb the stairs to the second floor or take the elevator. An additional fee required for summit access.

Prices are updated regularly on the official Eiffel Tower website, and purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues.

There is no better feeling than watching this iconic sparkle at night and taking beautiful Instagramable shots.

What To See In Paris In 3 Days

Day 3: Visiting Versailles, the Golden Palace

Although I lived in Paris 6 months and went there several times per year but I have never been to Versailles till 2 years ago. Literary I was so busy walking down the whole city and finding so many new spots, that never had the idea of visiting this golden beauty.

But it’s a pity to visit Paris and to scape this stunning palace and although it’s a 35 minutes ride from Arc de Triomphe, it’s definitely worth it.

If you think you don’t have enough time for the transfer or standing in the long queue there, you can also book a guided tour for Versailles and just skip the line. Here are the options I normally book or recommend for booking to get a tour with transfer and ticketing.

If you are rather a self-explorer, I highly recommend to book your ticket online, as the queue of the entrance is long.

Visiting is Located about 20 kilometers southwest of the city and offers not only a noble palace building but also stunning gardens. Although I’m sure you’ve heard about the Hall of Mirrors, and extravagant rooms, but seeing those with your own eyes is different.

Once you arrive the palace and hopefully you’ve got your ticket in advance and can skip the line, be sure to visit the iconic Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Grand Apartments, and explore the vast gardens that stretch out behind the palace.

Getting There:
Start your journey at Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (right by the Arc de Triomphe) on Metro Line 1. Ride to Châtelet-Les Halles, then transfer to the RER C at Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame station. Take the RER C directly to Versailles Rive Gauche station. The entire trip takes about an hour, and trains run frequently throughout the day.

Kick Off Your Final Day in Paris

Kick off your final day with a hearty breakfast at Saint-Martin. Saint-Martin Canal is another romantic and artistic part of Paris with amazing boutique shops. I love to stroll down the Canal and browse the vintage stores, and street arts and books. Initially that reflects the modern side of Paris.

While Strolling along the water, enjoy the laid-back vibe, and snap photos of the canal’s charming iron footbridges.

Stop for brunch at a canal-side café like Le Comptoir Général. What i love about this spot is that if’s a mix of local and international dishes, and it offers a relaxed atmosphere that invites conversation and people-watching. My favorite is a smoothie bowl or an avocado toast paired with an artisan coffee.

Lunch in a historic monument

If you want to experience a fine cuisine in a beautiful historic monument, then you should visit La Petite Venise in Palace of Versailles. This is an affordable cozy restaurant in the heart of Versailles park. Literary it’s an Italian restaurant located between Apollo’s Fountain and the Grand Canal.

In summer you can also sit outside in the terrace and enjoy the view.

Afternoon: Stroll Along the Seine & Visit Trocadéro

One of the things I always do on my last day of visiting Paris is to stroll through the Trocadero Garden and enjoy the view of Eiffel tower, in order to say a farewell to Paris in a romantic way.

After having a relaxed lunch and a bit of rest, take the RER C from Versailles Rive Gauche to Pont de l’Alma in Paris (it’s around 40 min). Then, either catch Metro Line 9 at Alma-Marceau for one stop to Trocadéro or enjoy a 15-minute walk along the Seine.

The view of the Eiffel Tower simply stunning and this is a perfect spot for photography and soaking in the city’s atmosphere. The Trocadéro area is ideal for those Instagram-worthy shots that capture Paris at its best.

Evening: Farewell Dinner & Nightlife

One of my favorite restaurants near Trocadéro Garden is Les Ombres. Located on the rooftop of the Quai Branly Museum and is a Michelin-starred restaurant offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. It is a special atmosphere – perfect for a special farewell. Make sure to book in advance, as it can get quite busy.

Anther affordable and well-reviewed option near Trocadéro that I like to visit each time, I’m in Paris is a cozy, well-reviewed spot near Trocadéro and called Mokus l’Écureuil. It’s a charming bistro that offers a variety of French and Mediterranean dishes and it’s both delicious and affordable.

Affordable Accommodation Options in Paris

Paris is a large city with so many beautiful spots and quartiers, but finding affordable and comfortable accommodation, located in the heart of the city can be overwhelming if you are visiting Paris for the first time.

If you haven’t been to Paris yet and you only have 3 days, I recommend to stay in the city center and even close to Champ-Élysées so that you don’t need to travel long ways to reach the attractions.

Here are a few budget-friendly hotels that are located in the heart of the city, mostly within walking distance from Champ-Élysées and I really enjoyed my stay there:

Hotel New Orient

This is my favorite hotel in Paris, but you need to book early, as it gets sold out fast. It’s a cozy hotel in the heart of the city with a remarkable French interior. Check the Availability and prices here.

Hotel Ekta

Location: Just a short walk from the Champs-Élysées, perfect for first-time visitors who want to be near the city’s most iconic landmarks. Also it’s stylish and budget-friendly with a blend of contemporary design with a classic Parisian flair. I enjoyed my stay there. Check the availability here.

For more hotel options in Paris, also check our post: 10 Most beautiful Streets in Paris

Best Restaurants in Paris

$$ La Crêperie des Artes (Delicious Crêpe)
$$ Bistro Juveniles (A Fantastic Wine Bistro Bar)
$$ Robert et Louise (For Meat & Wine lovers)

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$$ Poulette (New French Cuisine)
$$ Pink Mamma (Italian Cuisine)
$$ Bouillon (French Cuisine)

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$$$ Le Train Bleu (A Fine French Cuisine)
$$$$ Girafe (A Fine-Dining French restaurant)
$$$$ Le Procope (French Cuisine with nice Atmosphere)

Insider Tips for a Successful 3-Day Paris Trip

Getting Around Paris

Budget-Saving Strategies

Cultural Etiquette

Additional Resources

What You Really Need for Your Trip To Paris

I’m sharing my absolute must-haves for your Parisian adventure! But depend on the time of the year, you’re traveling to Paris. Please consider that even during the summer days, it’s sometimes rainy in Paris, so a lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella is also a smart addition to your packing list.

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes

If you’ve been to Europe before, you know that walking is nonstop! And Paris is no exception.

On our first day alone, we covered over 15 miles—trust me, the wrong shoes will ruin your trip. Pack comfy sneakers or sandals that you’ve already broken in to avoid painful blisters.

2. A Secure Cross-Body Bag

Pickpockets are common in Paris, especially around major tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. To keep your belongings safe, opt for a small cross-body bag that stays close to you at all times.

3. A European Plug Converter

If you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada (like me), don’t forget a plug adapter! European outlets are different, so you’ll need a converter to charge your devices.

5. A Portable Power Bank

You’ll be out exploring all day, snapping photos, navigating maps, and sharing your adventures—so a dead phone is the last thing you want.

Final Tip: Planning a 3-day trip to Paris? Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, making the most of your time in the City of Light requires a well-thought-out plan. This itinerary for Paris ensures you hit the must-see landmarks, enjoy incredible food, and experience the city’s unique charm—all without feeling rushed.

From iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre to hidden gems in Montmartre, this guide will help you maximize every moment. If you’re wondering how to spend Paris in 3 days, get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with history, culture, and, of course, delicious pastries! 🍷🥐✨! ✨

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your 3 Days in Paris

This 3-day in Paris Guide is designed to offer a balanced experience: a mix of world-famous landmarks, hidden local treasures, and authentic culinary delights.

Let’s Plan Your Perfect Paris Trip!

With over 20 years of traveling to Paris, I know the city’s best-kept secrets—from charming cafés to breathtaking hidden spots. I’ll craft a personalized itinerary with all the restaurant and guide bookings if you want to have a stress free, just unforgettable experience in Paris. Let’s make your Paris dream come true—reach out, and let’s start planning!