If you’re planning your first trip to the City of Lights, this 3-day Paris itinerary for first-time visitors will help you explore the best of Paris in a short time, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, this itinerary has something for everyone. Ready to immerse yourself in Parisian culture? Let’s dive into the perfect 3-day Paris itinerary!
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Day 1: Exploring Iconic Landmarks
Morning: Eiffel Tower & Seine River Cruise
Afternoon: Notre-Dame Cathedral & Louvre Museum
Evening: Explore Le Marais & classic French dinner
Morning: Eiffel Tower & Seine River Cruise
Start your 3-day Paris itinerary with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, Paris’s most famous landmark. Get there early to avoid the crowds. The Eiffel Tower opens at 9:30 AM, so you can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Practical Tip: Skip the lines by booking a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower. This will save you time, give you inside information about this world-famous landmark and let you make the most of your visit.
Afterward, enjoy a relaxing Seine River cruise. You’ll pass by historic landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Musée d’Orsay from the comfort of a boat.
Midday: Walk to Notre-Dame Cathedral
After your cruise, head out for a walk towards the Notre-Dame Cathedral, located on the Île de la Cité. It’s about a 15-minute stroll from the Seine cruise docks. As you approach, take in the stunning Gothic architecture of the cathedral. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby Shakespeare and Company bookstore, a legendary spot for book lovers.
Afternoon: Louvre Museum
Next, head to the Louvre Museum, just a short walk from Notre-Dame. Home to over 35,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, the Louvre is a must-see for art lovers.
Practical Tip: The Louvre can be overwhelming, so consider joining a guided tour to make sure you see the top highlights.
Evening: Explore Le Marais District
Wrap up your day by exploring the charming Le Marais district. Wander through its narrow streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. You can also visit Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s most beautiful squares.
Dining Tip: Stop at a café for dinner and try a classic French dish like duck confit or escargot! For an iconic Parisian dining experience, you can also visit Le Relais de l’Entrecôte for a memorable steak-frites experience (you get a second portion included in the price!).
👉 Want more foodie tips? Check out our blog Best Food in Paris: 10 Must-Try Dishes and Top Restaurants for our top picks and what you have to try while you’re here!
Day 2: Art, History, and Shopping
Morning: Musée d’Orsay, Tuileries Gardens & Place de la Concorde
Afternoon: Shopping on the Champs-Élysées
Evening: Sunset at Arc de Triomphe
Morning: Musée d’Orsay
Start your second day in Paris with a visit to the Musée d’Orsay. Housed in a former train station, this museum boasts an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
Practical Tip: Book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.
Breakfast Tip: Before you start your adventure, treat yourself to a classic Parisian breakfast at Angelina. Known for its rich hot chocolate and delicious pastries, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up for your first day of sightseeing! Keep in mind – you might need to wait up to 1 hour in line.
Midday: Walk through Tuileries Gardens and Place de la Concorde
After the museum, take a stroll through the Tuileries Gardens. This beautifully landscaped park is perfect for a peaceful walk, and it’s located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, another iconic spot in Paris.
Practical Tip: Place de la Concorde is the largest public square in Paris, featuring the famous Egyptian obelisk. Take some photos and enjoy the views of the Champs-Élysées.
Afternoon: Shopping on the Champs-Élysées
Next, head to the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets. Whether you want to shop luxury brands or simply window-shop, this avenue is a Parisian must-see.
Evening: Arc de Triomphe & Sunset Views
Finish your day by visiting the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for a stunning view of Paris, especially at sunset when the city is bathed in golden light. The Arc de Triomphe is located at the top of the Champs-Élysées, so it’s a perfect way to end your shopping spree.
Practical Tip: The Arc de Triomphe is best visited around sunset. You can book a skip-the-line tour to avoid the crowds.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Local Experiences
Morning: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Afternoon: Musée de l’Orangerie & Jardin des Plantes
Evening: Seine Dinner Cruise or Moulin Rouge show
Morning: Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica
On your final day of this 3-day Paris itinerary, start your day in the artistic Montmartre district. Explore its cobbled streets, charming cafés, and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica perched on a hill offering a fantastic panoramic view of Paris.
If you’re not up for the stairs, don’t worry – the funicular is a great option to reach the top with ease!
Practical Tip: If you prefer a more in-depth experience, you can book a Montmartre Walking Tour.
Lunch Tip: After exploring the basilica, stop for a traditional French lunch at Bouillon Pigalle. It’s a fantastic spot for authentic French dishes at low prices, making it a great option for a delicious yet affordable meal!
Afternoon: Musée de l’Orangerie and the Gardens
After Montmartre, head to the Musée de l’Orangerie, home to Claude Monet’s famous Water Lilies series. It’s a more intimate museum compared to the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, making it a lovely stop on your final day.
Practical Tip: The museum is located in the Tuileries Gardens, so take a moment to relax by the fountains or grab a snack at a nearby café.
Late Afternoon: Le Jardin des Plantes & Natural History Museum
For nature lovers, the Jardin des Plantes (Botanical Gardens) offers a serene break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the 5th arrondissement, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk. You can also visit the adjacent Natural History Museum if you have time.
Practical Tip: The Jardin des Plantes is free to visit, but the museums inside may require an entrance fee. Plan accordingly.
Evening: Seine Dinner Cruise or Cabaret Show
For your last evening in Paris, enjoy a Seine dinner cruise or treat yourself to a lively cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge. A Seine dinner cruise will offer a scenic and delicious way to end your 3-day Paris itinerary.
Practical Tip: A Seine dinner cruise is a unique way to enjoy Paris from the water, passing by lit-up monuments like the Eiffel Tower.
Day Tours from Paris: Explore Beyond the City
If you’ve got an extra day (or two) in Paris and want to explore beyond the city, there are plenty of amazing day trips to take. Here are some top recommendations:
Versailles Palace
- Travel Time: ~40 minutes by train (RER C)
- Highlights: Explore the opulent Palace of Versailles, its beautiful gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors. A must-see for history lovers and those into royal grandeur.
Mont Saint-Michel
- Travel Time: ~3.5 hours by train (can also be done by guided tour)
- Highlights: One of France’s most iconic landmarks, this medieval island abbey is surrounded by stunning tides, offering a picturesque and surreal experience.
Giverny
- Travel Time: ~45 minutes by train
- Highlights: The home and gardens of the famous artist Claude Monet. Wander through the vibrant gardens that inspired some of his most iconic paintings, including the Water Lilies series.
Loire Valley Castles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours by train or guided tour
- Highlights: Discover the Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and other stunning castles. Perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and wine enthusiasts.
Disneyland Paris
- Travel Time: ~45 minutes by train
- Highlights: For a fun and family-friendly escape, spend the day at Disneyland Paris. Whether you’re a Disney fan or not, it’s a magical way to break from the culture-heavy city.
Reims and the Champagne Region
- Travel Time: ~45 minutes by train
- Highlights: Explore Reims, the heart of the Champagne region, where you can tour famous champagne houses, enjoy tastings, and discover the city’s gothic cathedral.
Extra Things to Do in Paris If You Have More Time
If you’ve got a bit more time in Paris, here are some extra activities and hidden gems to add to your list:
Visit the Catacombs of Paris
- Location: Near Denfert-Rochereau
- Why Go: A fascinating and slightly eerie underground tour of the city’s vast network of tunnels, filled with the remains of millions of Parisians. A must-do for history and mystery enthusiasts!
Explore the Canal Saint-Martin
- Location: Northern Paris
- Why Go: This picturesque canal area is lined with quirky cafes, boutiques, and green spaces. Perfect for a relaxing walk or boat ride and great for a more laid-back vibe.
Take a Cooking Class
- Why Go: Learn to make classic French dishes like croissants, macarons, or even a full three-course meal! It’s a fun and immersive way to experience French culture.
Explore the Palais-Royal Gardens
- Location: Near Louvre
- Why Go: A tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of Paris. The beautiful Palais-Royal gardens are surrounded by elegant arcades, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection.
Climb the Sainte-Chapelle Tower for a View of Paris
- Location: Île de la Cité
- Why Go: For breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, climb the tower of Sainte-Chapelle, a stunning Gothic church famous for its stained glass windows.
Wine Tasting
- Why Go: Paris is a great place for wine lovers. Enjoy a wine tasting experience where you can sample local French wines, learn about the regions they come from, and get a deeper appreciation for the world of French wine.
Conclusion
This 3-day Paris itinerary for first-time visitors covers the essential attractions of Paris while giving you the chance to explore its hidden gems.
From the Eiffel Tower and Louvre to Montmartre and the Seine River, there’s no shortage of iconic places to discover. Book your guided tours and tickets in advance to save time and avoid long lines, making the most of your Paris adventure.
So, are you ready to explore Paris? Pack your bags, and let this itinerary guide you through the most unforgettable 72 hours in the City of Lights!