3 Days in Paris: The Perfect City Itinerary
3-Day Paris Itinerary
The Icons & The River
Start with the Eiffel Tower (early!), walk the Seine towards the Musée d'Orsay, and end with sunset at the Arc de Triomphe..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Breakfast at a bakery, not a cafe (cheaper). Lunch menus ('formules') are half the price of dinner. Try L'As du Fallafel in Le Marais, not the one next door. Du Pain et des Idées has the best croissants, not the tourist traps near Notre-Dame.
Art & History
The Louvre in the morning (book the 9am slot), followed by a long lunch in Le Marais and exploring the Jewish Quarter..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Breakfast at a bakery, not a cafe (cheaper). Lunch menus ('formules') are half the price of dinner. Try L'As du Fallafel in Le Marais, not the one next door. Du Pain et des Idées has the best croissants, not the tourist traps near Notre-Dame.
Bohemian Heights
Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur, and a final evening cruise or dinner in the Latin Quarter..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Breakfast at a bakery, not a cafe (cheaper). Lunch menus ('formules') are half the price of dinner. Try L'As du Fallafel in Le Marais, not the one next door. Du Pain et des Idées has the best croissants, not the tourist traps near Notre-Dame.
Where to Stay
Le Marais
Trendy, historic, and full of boutiques.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Classic Paris literature and cafe culture.
Daily Budget
Per person, per day including accommodation, food, and activities
Must-See Attractions
- The Icons & The River
- Art & History
- Bohemian Heights
Hidden Gems
- Canal Saint-Martin for a picnic with the locals.
Getting Around
Get a Navigo Day Pass (€8.45) instead of buying single tickets. The metro runs until 1am weekdays, 2am weekends. CDG Airport to center: RER B train is cheapest (€11.45), taxi is €50-60 flat rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak French?
No, but 'Bonjour' and 'Merci' go a long way. Most people under 40 speak English.
Is Paris safe?
Yes, but watch for pickpockets on the Metro, especially Lines 1 and 4.
Can I see it all in 3 days?
You can see the highlights. You can't 'do' Paris in 3 days, but you can get a solid introduction.