Paris. The City of Lights, Love, and undeniably, long queues. But don’t let the thought of crowds deter you! Three days in Paris might seem like a whirlwind, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can experience the very best this iconic city has to offer.
This isn’t just another list of tourist traps – this is your ultimate 3 day Paris itinerary, designed to maximize your time and immerse you in the true Parisian spirit. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to charming hidden gems and delectable culinary experiences, this guide will help you navigate the city like a pro, ensuring you create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags (and your walking shoes!), and get ready to fall in love with Paris in just 72 glorious hours. Let’s dive into this 3 day Paris itinerary!
Table of Contents
Preparation and Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Arrival: Depending on where you live and how your preferred mode of transportation is, you will arrive in Paris either by car, train or airplane. I would strongly advice you try to arrive in the morning as this will give you almost an entire first day.
- Accommodation: Hotels in Paris are very expensive. For a 3-day trip I still strongly advice to choose a location that is central and well-connected by public transport. The less time you spend in public transportation and taxis, the more you will see and enjoy this beautiful city. Here are some of my favorite hotels with a great location:
- Transportation: Paris has an excellent public transportation system (the Métro). Consider purchasing a multi-day travel pass (in advance) for easy and affordable travel. Alternatively, you can also walk to many if not all places I will suggest. It might take a little longer but you will see so much more of all the neighborhoods.
- Restaurants: Trying out Paris’ restaurant scene is a must in my opinion. And you should definitely book your dinner spots before you arrive. Here are some of my favorites which – with one exception – are located close to the hotels above:
- Cafés/Coffee shops: Just to name a few to give you some options:
- Food: Don’t miss out on trying classic French cuisine like croissants, crêpes, macarons, and steak frites.
- Language: While many people in Paris speak English, learning a few basic French phrases will be appreciated.
- Book in advance: Especially for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Moulin Rouge, or basically everything that requires tickets.
- Be prepared for crowds: Paris is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak season.
- Bring comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
Morning: I assume you’ll arrive in the morning. Ideally, check into your hotel (if possible) and leave your luggage so you can explore unburdened. Wear comfortable shoes and an outfit that matches the weather conditions. Personally, I like to be casual with a stylish twist. after all, we are in Paris, one of the fashion capitals of Europe.
While I love breakfast, I often pack something to eat and drink so I don’t waste time on the first day. But if prefer to have your first Parisian food now, grab a coffee and a croissant. There are some options close to the recommended hotels (see above); but please avoid any tourist traps.
Start exploring Paris and take a leisurely stroll along the Champs-Élysées, Paris’ most famous avenue, lined with luxury shops, retail chains, and restaurants/cafes. Visit the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the avenue. While you could spend hours here if you’re interested in shopping, I’d recommend a quick visit since you only have three days.
Lunch: My recommendation would be to eat close to but not on the Champs-Élysées. If you like sushi, I can highly recommend DokiDoki Marbeuf, but you need a reservation. Plenty of other great lunch spots are close by, but do your research to avoid tourist traps! Paris is a food lover’s paradise, so make the most of it!
Afternoon: Walk to and along Rue Saint-Honoré, make a detour to Place Vendôme. You will mainly see luxury boutiques, but also pass by Le Palais de L’Èlysée and the Ritz hotel. Even if you are not into shopping, I think this stroll is worth it. This area is a major draw for many visitors, and I always enjoy people-watching and simply soaking in the atmosphere. Get a coffee at Café Kitsuné Tuileries and finish the afternoon with a visit to the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries. Finally, head back to your hotel.
Evening: You might want to relax a little in your hotel room. Depending on where you are staying, I recommend dining at a nearby restaurant for convenience. But of course, this is up to you. If you followed my hotel recommendations and booked one of the first three, you’ll find some great options nearby. For example, Maître Pierre is a fantastic Italian restaurant, and Chez André is a popular French bistro. I also really love Bar des Prés Montaigne.
If you stay in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, there is also the original Bar des Prés or try Cinq-Mars for a cozy French bistro with amazing food and service.
Recap: The goal of today’s itinerary was to explore everything by foot. It might have been a lot of walking, but it should be doable, especially in good weather. You could also tick off your first famous sights, while getting to know a few Paris neighborhoods. Ending the afternoon in the Tuileries Garden offers a relaxing moment in this bustling city.
Day 2: Louvre & Marais
Morning: Have an early breakfast in the hotel and start your day visiting Musée du Louvre (take a taxi or walk, depending on time, weather and fitness). There will almost certainly be crowds, but mornings are generally less busy. Get your tickets upfront and don’t expect you will be able to visit the entire museum. Focus strategically on what you definitely want to see. You’ll hopefully return to Paris someday. I have refrained from coming to the Louvre for years because of the crowds, but I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Lunch: Have lunch at one of the Asian restaurants around Jardin du Palais Royal. There are tons of options, many very popular with lines outside. If you don’t fancy Asian food, you have alternatives such as Enza Famiglia, Le Comptoir des Petits Champs, or Les Fines Gueules. Visit the Palais Royal Garden afterwards.
Afternoon: Walk to and explore the charming Le Marais district, known for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and delicious falafel. Visit the Place des Vosges, one of Paris’ oldest planned squares, if you still have time and energy. Take public transportation or a taxi back to the hotel.
Evening: While I usually prefer to dine in walking distance of my hotel, my recommendation for tonight would be Le Chardenoux. This restaurant is located in the 11th arrondissement and my favorite in Paris. It’s operated by Chef Cyril Lignac. He also owns Bar des Prés and the amazing La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac (just across the street), among other places. The cuisine is French with a modern/Asian twist. Going there (by taxi or metro) also gives you a chance to explore the 11th arrondissement.
If you however prefer to walk to your restaurant, my clear choice in Saint-Germain-des-Prés would be L’Affable. In the 8th/16th arrondissement, I recommend one of the restaurants you missed on your first evening. Akira Back and La Maison de l’Aubrac are also excellent choices.
Recap: Lots of walking again. But for me, this is key to get to know a place in the best possible way. As with the first day, I didn’t want to overpack the itinerary, as that often takes away the enjoyment. You will need time for such a big city. Better come back more often or maybe you can even stay longer. But don’t stress trying to visit all attractions in three days.
Day 3: Iconic Landmark & Neighborhood Stroll
Morning: Have another early breakfast at the hotel or at your café of choice nearby. Check out before starting your last day, unless your hotel offers late check-out. Enjoy walking along Avenue Montaigne towards the Tour Eiffel.
If you stay in Saint-Germain, you will have to get here by metro or taxi, but you will have an advantage in the evening. Avenue Montaigne is another street full of designer stores, but feels completely different than Rue Saint-Honoré and worth a visit. Consider it a practical route to the Eiffel Tower. Once you have taken enough photos there, walk towards the luxury department store Le Bon Marché and the gourmet grocery store La Grande Èpicerie. This will take just over 30 minutes via the most direct route, or longer if you take a more scenic path.
Personally, I would visit both stores. If you are not interested in shopping for clothes, accessories, or beauty products, Le Bon Marché is still worth a visit for its stunning architecture. Plus, you can get coffee or snacks there. And La Grande Epicerie has become a must visit for me on every Paris trip. I always find something to take home with me.
The only issue with our itinerary is that you will probably have to carry your bags for some time. They do offer a delivery service on the same day, but that might not work depending on when you will be leaving. However, if you are staying in Saint-Germain, you can easily drop your bags off at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day bag-free.
Lunch: I assume you will still be at or around those two stores. You can have lunch there, or choose a restaurant on your way to Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Some very good recommendations are Chez Bartolo, Camila, or Le Bistrot d’Henri (all also excellent dinner spots).
Afternoon: Spend time in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a beautiful Left Bank neighborhood, that exudes Parisian charm with its intellectual and artistic history. Wander along its cobblestone streets, popping into iconic cafes like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, once frequented by writers and philosophers. Although these two are a bit touristy these days, they remain an iconic Parisian experience.
Explore independent bookstores, art galleries, and fashion boutiques. Don’t miss the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés Abbey and the bustling Marché Saint-Germain, a vibrant market offering local produce and delicacies. Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers a quintessential Parisian experience, making it a perfect ending to three amazing days in the City of Lights.
Evening: If you have time for a final meal, I recommend something light before heading home. I would liekly return to DokiDoki Marbeuf if you have been staying in the 8th arrondissement, or Le Café 52 at the Hotel Grand Powers. For the 6th arrondissement, great options would be Le Saigon d’Antan and Brasserie Des Prés. Otherwise, head back to your hotel, get your luggage and say goodbye to Paris.
Recap: And even more walking. But by now, you know my strategy. From my point of view, this will give you the most insights and impressions of Paris as possible. Plus, you will do something for your fitness and also save some money. I wanted to include Saint-Germain-des-Prés as it’s such a great part of Paris with its own vibe.
Table Overview Of The 3 Day Paris Itinerary
| Day 1 | |
| Morning | Hotel, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe |
| Lunch | 8th Arrondissement (or 16th) |
| Afternoon | Rue Saint-Honoré, Place Vendôme, Jardin des Tuileries |
| Dinner | Maître Pierre / Cinq-Mars |
| Day 2 | |
| Morning | Musée du Louvre |
| Lunch | Restaurant suggestions see above, plus visit of Jardin du Palais Royal |
| Afternoon | Le Marais, Place des Vosges |
| Dinner | Le Chardenoux |
| Day 3 | |
| Morning | Avenue Montaigne, Tour Eiffel, Le Bon Marché |
| Lunch | Chez Bartolo / Camila / Le Bistrot d’Henri |
| Afternoon | Saint-Germain-des-Prés |
| Dinner | DokiDoki Marbeuf / Brasserie Des Prés |
Final Thoughts
Three days in Paris is a whirlwind, a fleeting taste of the magic this city holds. It’s impossible to see and do everything, and that’s perfectly okay. This itinerary was designed to give you a balanced experience, hitting some iconic landmarks while also offering glimpses of Parisian life beyond the tourist hotspots. Whether you strolled along the fascinating avenues, savored a perfect croissant, or simply soaked in the atmosphere of a charming café, I hope this guide helped you create unforgettable memories.
I didn’t want to overpack these three days, so there will inevitably be much you haven’t seen and visited. This was on purpose. As mentioned earlier, my approach is to experience a city as naturally and “local” as possible. Paris is a city that rewards repeat visits, each trip revealing new layers of beauty and charm.
I also intentionally added my personal touch. This might not perfectly align with your ideal 3 day Paris itinerary. Even if you customize it to your own tastes, I’m confident it will give you a great starting point for planning your perfect Paris trip and offer valuable suggestions.
So, until next time, au revoir Paris, and à bientôt!
