Summary of the 3-Day Paris Itinerary
If you know us then you know that Paris is one of our favorite cities in Europe, and 3 days in Paris gives you ample time to sample all the highlights of the city. From visiting the famous sights like the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre to exploring great Paris neighborhoods and sampling some great food, Paris is a city that has it all.
To help you in your planning we put together this 3-Day Paris itinerary to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Our 3-Day Paris Itinerary
Paris itself can be an overwhelming city with an abundance of attractions. Therefore, it’s essential to make the most of your time with efficient planning. We have spent considerable time in Paris, and we are here to make sure that you visit the most iconic attractions without feeling rushed.
By taking advantage of Skip the Line tickets and easily accessible transit, you can enjoy the Paris experience in just three days. It’s recommended to acquire a GoCity Paris Pass, which includes public transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and timed entrances.
Paris Itinerary Day 1
Welcome to Paris! Today we will explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Get your camera ready for the must-see “Classics” of Paris. If walking is not preferable, consider taking a Seine River Cruise for a unique perspective of the city.
1. Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to its most famous landmark. Marvel at the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower as you gaze up from Trocadéro Gardens or the Champs de Mars. If you plan to ascend the tower, be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
How to Go up the Eiffel Tower
Take the Elevator
You can access the Eiffel Tower via stairs or the elevator. Most visitors prefer the elevator, but lines can be lengthy, lasting 2 to 3 hours. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for an early time slot.
Reserve tickets from the official website or explore alternative Skip the Line options. Tickets for the elevator go on sale 60 days prior, so plan ahead.
Take the Stairs
If you’re up for a challenge, you can climb the stairs to the second level. The stair tickets are more economical and typically don’t have long lines. Just be aware that ticket sales for stairs open only 10 days in advance.
- Hours: Elevator access: Daily 9:30 AM – 11:45 PM; last entry 1hr 45 min before closing. Stairs access: Daily 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM; last entry 45 min before closing.
- Cost: Lift to the second floor €16.60; Stairs to the Second Floor €10.40; Elevator to the top €25.90; Stairs + Elevator to the top €19.70.
- Location: 7th Arrondissement, 5 Avenue Anatole France, Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Bir-Hakeim, Green Line 6.
2. The Louvre Museum
After your morning at the Eiffel Tower, head to The Louvre, Paris’s second most popular landmark. Although it can be overwhelming due to size and crowds, you can appreciate the highlights in a couple of hours.
The Louvre is more than just a museum; it’s a journey through art history featuring masterpieces like the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa. Art enthusiasts could easily spend days here!
How to Skip the Line at the Louvre
As the world’s largest art museum, The Louvre can be busy, especially in peak seasons. Here are a few tactics to avoid long waits:
- Book your tickets online: Advanced purchases ensure minimal wait times of no more than 30 minutes. Cost: €17.
- Get a Paris City Pass: This pass allows you to bypass lines, though you will still need to pass through security.
- Join a Tour: Consider a guided highlights tour for a more structured experience.
Don’t forget to appreciate the Glass Pyramid entrance, especially at night when it’s less crowded.
- Hours: Open Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 9 AM to 5:45 PM; Wednesday, Friday 9 AM to 9:45 PM.
- Cost: €17.
- Location: 1st Arrondissement, Pyramide du Louvre, 75001 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre, Yellow Line 1, Pink line 7.
3. Place de La Concorde
After experiencing the Louvre, make your way towards the Champs-Élysées, starting at Tuileries Garden and concluding at Place de La Concorde. This picturesque walk unfolds through beautiful gardens culminating in a site rich in French history.
Place de La Concorde was established in 1772 and once served as the execution site during the French Revolution. Today, the Luxor Obelisk marks its legacy.
4. Champs-Élysées
Walk northwest through the Jardins Des Champs-Élysées, crossing the bustling roundabout to reach the famed avenue.
This extensive promenade is lined with boutiques and bistros, offering a delightful taste of Parisian life. Take your time enjoying the shops and indulging in a café au lait at a sidewalk restaurant.
- Location: 8th Arrondissement, Place de la Concorde, 75008 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Concorde stop, Yellow Line 1, Purple Line 8, Green Line 12; Champs-Élysées: George V stop, Yellow Line 1.
5. Arc de Triomphe
Your day culminates with a visit to the iconic Arc de Triomphe, famous for its role in the Tour de France. As you approach the monument, take a moment to honor the unknown soldier underneath it.
Make sure to ascend to the top for a stunning panoramic view of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower. If you have a Paris Pass, entry is complimentary, allowing you to skip the lines.
Note: Utilize the pedestrian underpasses to cross the busy streets. For an exceptional photo op of the Arc, head to the crosswalk on the northwest side.
- Hours: Open April 1 to September 30: 10 AM – 11 PM; October 1 to March 31: 10 AM – 10:30 PM.
- Cost: €13; free for children under 17. Skip the line with the Paris Pass.
- Location: 8th Arrondissement, Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile stop, Lines 1, 2, and 6.
Paris Itinerary Day 2
Click here for the Interactive Map
Paris History, Musée d’Orsay, and The Catacombs
6. Île de la Cité
Begin your second day in Paris at Île de la Cité, the historical heart of the city, home to Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle.
The Hop on Hop Off bus is an excellent way to navigate the area and is included in the Paris Pass for one day. Begin at Pont Neuf Bridge and walk along the Seine to Notre Dame.
7. Sainte Chapelle
Admire the breathtaking stained glass inside Sainte Chapelle, which far surpasses the exterior beauty of Notre Dame. Arrive early to avoid crowds, ideally 20-30 minutes before opening.
- Hours: April 1 to September 30: 9 AM – 7 PM; October 1 to March 31: 9 AM – 5 PM; closed January 1, May 1, December 25.
- Cost: €11.50.
- Location: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France.
- Metro Stop: Line 4, Cité.
8. Notre Dame Cathedral
Please Note: Due to restoration following a fire in April 2019, Notre Dame is currently closed and will likely not reopen until 2024. However, the exterior remains a sight to behold.
As you stroll through the cathedral’s courtyard, don’t forget to check out the “Point Zero,” marking the official center of old Paris.
For a stunning view of Notre Dame, walk along the Seine to Pont de l’Archevêque.
9. Left Bank of the Seine River
Continue your leisurely 30-minute walk to the Musée d’Orsay, a haven for literature lovers. The famous Left Bank has housed booksellers for over a century. Make sure to stop at Shakespeare & Company, a historic gathering spot for many literary greats.
10. Musée d’Orsay
Although not typically fond of museums, Musée d’Orsay was a delightful surprise. It houses the world’s largest Impressionist art collection in an old train station—a stunning architectural feat.
If you appreciate Impressionist artists like Monet and Degas, this museum is a must-see. Entry fees apply, but it’s included with the Paris Pass.
Tip: The museum is free on the first Sunday of each month, and is closed on Mondays.
- Hours: Closed Mondays, open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 6 PM, extended hours on Thursdays until 9:45 PM.
- Cost: Ticket + exhibition: €14.
- Location: 7th Arrondissement, 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Solférino, Green Line 12.
11. Les Jardins du Luxembourg
After visiting the museum, walk towards the Catacombs and Montparnasse. If you fancy a light lunch, grab a baguette and some cheese, and enjoy a picnic at the south lawn of Jardins du Luxembourg.
These beautiful gardens were established by Queen Marie de Medici in 1612 and cover approximately 25 hectares!
For a quicker route, catch the Metro at Musée d’Orsay and disembark at Montparnasse.
- Hours: Opens between 7:30 AM and 8:15 AM, closes between 4:30 PM and 9:30 PM, depending on the season.
- Cost: Free.
- Location: 6th Arrondissement, Rue de Médicis – Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Odéon on Yellow Line 10 and Purple Line 4.
12. The Catacombs
If you’re seeking a bit of adventure, consider exploring the Catacombs of Paris. Established in the late 18th century to manage the city’s overflowing cemeteries, the Catacombs present a unique experience of art made from human remains.
A guided tour can offer better insights into this macabre yet fascinating aspect of Paris.
- Hours: 10 AM to 8:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday; closed Mondays.
- Cost: €13.
- Location: 14th Arrondissement, 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Denfert-Rochereau, Green Line 6 and Purple Line 4.
13. Montparnasse
To conclude your evening sightseeing, head to Montparnasse. This location boasts some of the best views of Paris, particularly at sunset. Ascend to the observation deck on the 56th floor for stunning vistas.
The lower level offers a glass-enclosed view, while the terrace provides great photograph opportunities.
Consider dining in the charming Latin Quarter, just a 20-minute walk away, where you’ll find numerous delightful restaurants.
- Hours: Summer: daily 9:30 AM – 11:30 PM; Winter: Sunday to Thursday 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM; Friday and Saturday until 11 PM.
- Cost: €18 for adults, €15 for students, €9.50 for children; special ticket offerings are available.
- Location: 15th Arrondissement, Rue de l’Arrivée, 75015 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Montparnasse – Bienvenüe.
Paris Itinerary Day 3
On your final day, explore one of the world’s most famous cemeteries as well as the artistic heart of Paris, located a bit outside of the central area but undoubtedly worth a visit.
14. Père Lachaise Cemetery
Situated in the 20th Arrondissement, Père Lachaise Cemetery is home to approximately 800,000 souls, including renowned figures such as Jim Morrison, Chopin, Molière, Edith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde. This site is the most visited cemetery in France, drawing countless admirers.
Even if you’re not intrigued by these famous individuals, the cemetery’s stunning artworks are captivating. For a more insightful visit, consider joining a guided tour to delve deeper into the cemetery’s history.
Tip: Secure a map at the cemetery entrance or download one here.
- Hours: November to Mid-March: 8 AM – 5:30 PM on weekdays, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM on Saturdays, 9 AM – 5:30 PM on Sundays. Mid-March to October: 8 AM – 6 PM on weekdays, 8:30 AM – 6 PM on Saturdays, 9 AM – 6 PM on Sundays.
- Cost: Free.
- Location: 20th Arrondissement, 8 Boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Père Lachaise, Lines 1 and 2.
15. Montmartre
Take the Metro to Montmartre, located in the 18th Arrondissement, known for its vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for an afternoon stroll.
Begin with lunch at Place du Tertre while admiring local artists at work. Afterwards, explore where Dali, Picasso, and Renoir once lived. Montmartre holds both the Montmartre Museum and the Dali Museum, each worth a visit. Don’t miss Sacré-Cœur before leaving the area.
16. Sacré-Cœur
This basilica, located at one of the highest points in Paris, offers magnificent views of the city. For an even higher vantage point, climb 300 steps to the dome for a breathtaking panorama.
End your day with dinner in the Montmartre district or take in a lively show at the Moulin Rouge.
Sacré-Cœur Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 10:30 PM (last entry at 10:15 PM).
- Cost: Free entry; Dome access incurs a fee. Visit the official website for details.
- Location: 18th Arrondissement, Parvis du Sacré-Cœur, 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris.
- Metro Stop: Anvers Stop on Line 2, accessible by stairs or the funicular.
Optional Day 3 Activity
The Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a must-see for many first-time visitors to Paris. Though technically outside the city, it remains a popular addition to any Paris itinerary.
Located a 45-minute train ride from central Paris, Versailles served as the seat of the French government for a century. The awe-inspiring Hall of Mirrors and the expansive gardens are genuinely remarkable.
Time Required: Depending on your interest, expect to spend 3 hours to a full day.
To maximize your visit, consider acquiring a Skip the Line Entry Ticket or a combination Transfer, Ticket, and Audio Guide Tour.
- Hours: Closed Mondays; open at 9 AM from Tuesday to Sunday; gardens are open daily and free to visit.
- Cost: €20 includes the palace, gardens, and Trianon; €18 for palace-only tours (included with The Paris City Pass or The Paris Museum Pass).
- Getting There: Tickets will cost €7.10 extra for the RER C train from Paris to Versailles, a 45-minute ride each way.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit to Paris
Get Yourself a Paris Pass
The best way to save money and efficiently see the sights in Paris is to obtain a Paris Pass. Available for 2-6 days, it grants you the following benefits:
- Free entry to over 60 top attractions
- Unlimited travel on the metro
- A 1-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour ticket
- A guidebook available in 6 languages
- Skip-the-line access at many popular sights
- Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise
- Wine Tasting at O Chateau
Having limited time? Using the Paris Pass can streamline your experience, making it well worth the investment.
Some Museums and Attractions are Closed Mondays or Tuesdays
To avoid disappointment, check the opening schedules beforehand to ensure your desired destinations are open during your visit.
Getting Around Paris
Paris is easy to navigate, so don’t stress about finding a hotel near your preferred attractions. **Note:** If you opt for the Paris Pass, metro fare is included from zones 1-3!
The Metro
The Paris Metro is both affordable and straightforward. A five-day pass in zones 1-3 costs just €37.50, making it a convenient option upon arrival.
The Hop on Hop off Bus
This service operates from 9:30 AM to 7 PM, and one day on the hop-on hop-off bus is included in the Paris Pass. If you wish to extend your usage or prefer not to get a pass, 1-3 day passes are available here. Be sure to check the route maps for summer and winter adjustments as needed.
Getting to and from the Airport
For airport transfers, consider a private transfer or shuttle bus, or utilize Uber. The shuttle typically costs about $21 USD per person, while a private transfer runs around $40 USD for a round trip. Expect to spend a minimum of €50 for an Uber.
For a detailed understanding of airport transport options, refer to our guide on the Cheapest Ways to Get from CDG and Orly to Paris.
That should do it! If you have any questions about this Paris itinerary, feel free to leave them in the comments below!
Additional Information for Your Trip to Paris
- WHERE TO STAY IN PARIS – A 2020 GUIDE TO THE BEST NEIGHBORHOODS
- HOW TO VISIT PARIS ON A BUDGET – 20 TIPS TO SAVE MONEY
- 27 FREE THINGS TO DO IN PARIS, FRANCE
- CHEAPEST WAYS TO GET FROM ORLY & CHARLES DE GAULLE (CDG) TO PARIS
- What to do in Paris at Night
- PARIS CLOSURES, WHEN TO AVOID MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS
- FAMOUS PEOPLE BURIED IN THE PÈRE LACHAISE CEMETERY OF PARIS
- CATACOMBS OF PARIS TOUR – THE UNDERGROUND LABYRINTH OF DEATH
If you are planning a trip to France, consider checking out our France Travel Guide!
Many People add London to their Paris Itinerary. Check out these London articles to help plan more of your Paris travels:
- Where To Stay In London – A Guide to The Best Areas and Places
- 3 Days in London – The Ultimate London Itinerary
- London Landmarks – 18 Famous Places in Photos
- 22 of the Top Things to do in London, England
- London’s Top 5 Alternative Attractions
